Nene Valley Living March 2014

HELPING

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LIVING

NENE VALLEY LIVING FOOD/FASHION/HEALTH

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BEAUTY/HOME

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LOCALLY

GARDEN/LIFESTYLE

New spring season UPDATE YOUR KITCHEN DOORSTEP DISCOVERIES A DAY OUT IN NORTHAMPTON EATING OUT PROPER PUBS AND HOTEL DINING NEW WEBSITE! www.nenevalleyliving.co.uk GET IN TOUCH: NVLMARCHCOVER copy.indd 1

MARCH 2014 £1.50 03

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N E NE VA L L EY LIVING

Cover photo and styling: TRACEY MATHIESON AT FOXTAIL LILLY

This Issue M A RCH 2014

A

s the country emerges from its almighty battering over the last few months, there are green shoots showing in all sorts of ways, and not just in our gardens, fields and hedgerows. We have a busy magazine for you this month, with new ventures and businesses and plenty of developments among the established ones.

Events and fundraisers are flourishing, too. Here are some stop press inclusions: On Saturday March 29 there will be a fantastic charity night at The Brewery Tap, Peterborough. Eight piece soul band the Motor City Vipers are hosting their annual soul night, in association with Randall Rootz Community Music, to help raise funds and awareness for Sue Ryder Care at Thorpe Hall Hospice in Peterborough. Tickets cost £10, and includes support from soul DJs and Brewery Tap regulars Julz and Uncle Funk. Call 01733 358500 to purchase by credit or debit card.

On March 30, the City of Peterborough Symphony Orchestra will play a special piece of music written by US composer Lynne Warren, The Peterborough Letters.

It’s a UK premiere, and takes place at The Voyager Academy. Tickets from www.cpso.org.uk or the Destination Centre in Bridge Street.

In Nassington Village Hall on Saturday March 1, there will be a table top sale from 10am-12.30pm. So if you’d like to sell some unwanted items or find a bargain, head to the sale. To book a pitch, call Rebecca Downey on 01780 782465.

Finally, it’s nice to be making friends with more and more of you on Facebook.

We also have our own website now, at www.nenevalleyliving.co.uk Pop in and see us some time.

Have a good month.

Fion a Cu mberpatch Editor

SUBSCRIBE TO Nene Valley Living

5 Editor’s selection

Perfect picks for Mothers’ Day

7 Upfront

22 Body and soul

Wanted: carers for breakfast duties

Holistic care in Oundle and Peterborough

8 Upfront

24 The heart of the home

Electric cars in Peterborough

Spring style for your kitchen

11 Upfront

26 Small is beautiful

Sunday lunch at the Kings Head, Apethorpe

Visit a micro pub!

12 High Street Update

29 A day out in Northampton

Oundle’s newest businesses

Sights, shopping and eating out

15 Food news

32 Promoting Peterborough

Hotel dining

The man behind local tourism

18 Health and beauty notes

35 Booked for Oundle

Help for dementia sufferers and carers

What’s on at Oundle Festival of Literature

20 A makeover at Beales

37 Diary dates

Fashion and beauty advice in store

This month’s essential events

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 MARCH 2014

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

Open Fri, Sat & Sun from 10am to 4pm 4 Elton Road, Wansford. Tel: 01780 783334

Daisy Chain

33 Elton Road, Wansford, Peterborough, PE8 6JD T: 07713 317006 E: annieb@daisychaincollectables.co.uk, www.daisychaincollectables.co.uk

‘New stock weekly and look out in the Spring for the Secret Garden Collection’

NO CHIMNEY? NO PROBLEM! We supply & install Stovax - Twin wall flue systems

Quirky, eclectic gift s for all ages and gender s from modern to vintage, including prints and watercol ours.

Opening times: 11am to 4.30pm Thursday to Saturday.

Wansford has some lovely shops - Boheme, The Barn, The Wansford Cakery, Village Store, Hairdresser, Bridal shop, pubs, restaurants and hotel – why not pay us a visit.

Stu-Pots

36 Market Place Oundle 01832 275414 Morphy Richards Mixer - WAS £499.99 NOW £199.99 Cream, Red & Black colours available.

Sodastream stockist

Council approved bio-degradable bags in stock

WE ARE HERE

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

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

When a ‘Black Cab’ or a ‘Mini-cab’ just WILL NOT do!!! << UK Passenger Direct << Here to move:

Tel: 0800 211 8636 M: 07513 594581 E: ukpd@hotmail.co.uk

• Business Users • Commercial Clients • Airport/Long Distance Customers.

We only use premium, quality cars which are totally non-sign written.

Whatever the hour - Wherever you need to be - Whenever you need us.

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I D E A S F O R M OT HE R ’S DAY ON M A R CH 20

Editor’s selection

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An absorbing read: The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt, to order from The Oundle Bookshop, tel: 01832 273523

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‘Mum’ bracelet (‘love you lots’ on reverse of the charm), £14.95, Romejo’s, Oundle

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Caroline Gardner hearts mug, £10.50, Crackers, 3 New St, Oundle Tel: 01832 274467

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Heart willow baskets, £20 for three, Sainsburys, Bretton Centre, Peterborough

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Recycled bottle vase £12, Next Home

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Leather cross body bag, £52.50, Romejo’s, 15 Market Place, Oundle.

Tel: 01832 272165

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Vintage look floral purse, £11.99, Crackers of Oundle

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Polka dot tee shirt, £22, Next, Queensgate Centre, Peterborough NENE VALLEY LIVING MARCH 2014

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Curtains, Blinds, Soft Furnishings & Fabrics A local, family-run business with excellent service values • ROMAN BLINDS • VENETIAN, ROLLER & VERTICAL BLINDS • WALLCOVERINGS • WOODEN SHUTTERS • AWNINGS • CONSERVATORY BLIND SPECIALIST (perfect fit system) • CUSTOM MADE CURTAINS (pencil, pinch, eyelets, valances, pelmet boards, swags & tails)

Book a free home visit to measure and discuss your requirements and receive a no-obligation quotation.

Harlequin, Prestigious, Blendworth, Villa Nova and many more!

New Poetic range from Harlequin is now in store.

Showroom at: 30 Phorpres Close, Hampton, Peterborough, PE7 8FZ - Email: sales@jandsinteriors.uk.com www.jandsinteriors.uk.com Opening times: Mon - Fri 9.30 - 5; Sat 10-4. Free parking - Telephone: 01733 558864 - (Behind Dobbies Garden world)

Visit The Barn for all your garden needs

• Trees, Conifers & Shrubs • Perennials & Alpines • Bedding & Seasonal Plants • Fruit, Veg & Herbs • Roses & Climbers • Grasses & Ferns The Barn Garden Centre, Barnwell Road, Oundle. PE8 5PB 01832 273310 - www.thebarngardencentre.co.uk Find us on facebook

Great Plants, Great Choice, Great Value 6

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W H AT’ S NEW T HIS MONT H

UpFront DESIGN

DIARY

Creative garden designer Stephen Roe brings us the first in an occasional column following the design and build of a quirky Hobbit House…

H

ow do you combine a summer house, an office, sauna, shower, bathroom and small kitchen into one garden structure? This was the challenge set for bespoke garden structure company William Lloyd.

Stephen Roe, the creative designer behind William Lloyd met with the client and talked over the project before carrying out a detailed site survey. “The talking time with any client is essential,” says Stephen. “You must endeavour to clearly understand the requirements and get inside a client’s mind to fully appreciate their needs and tastes.”

The south facing structure is to be built on the site of an old hovel that has a large walnut tree growing directly in front of it. During early conversations, the client, Jan, mentioned that she was an avid fan of JRR Tolkein’s book, The Hobbit. With this in mind, the concept of a structure under a hill was born. The clients, Jan and Nick, embraced this unusual idea with enthusiasm and after many hours of sketching different layouts, the final illustration was presented. The quirky concept was also given a Hobbity name: The Jannick Hovel!

The Hobbit inspiration is demonstrated by the use of the wild meadow hill that will run up and over the entire structure. Part of this will be built into the hill, and to give views of the garden and pond from the office, a circular window will be concealed by a bespoke Hobbit door.

To make the rooms useable all year round, the floor and walls will be insulated and an efficient, clean burn solid fuel stove will heat three radiators. The flue will be built into a charming, rickety chimney that will rise up from the hill. An oak octagonal summer room will form the right hand side to the structure with the sauna and bathroom being built into the corner.

In order to retain the hill, two walls will be built and faced with reclaimed handmade bricks.

This will give the structure a beautiful red, textured finish that will be adorned by the colourful wild flower meadow ‘living’ roof.

• To view more work by William Lloyd, visit www.williamlloyd.co.uk

RACE IS ON FOR THORPE HALL! Enjoy a Friday night with friends and raise much needed funds for Thorpe Hall Sue Ryder Hospice at the same time. A race night being held on April 4 at Peterborough Greyhound Stadium is part of the charity’s £6 million capital appeal.

Sue Ryder Privilege tables can be booked at £45 per person of which £20 goes to the charity appeal. Guests will enjoy a welcome glass of Bucks Fizz, a five course meal, plus a surprise goodie bag, minimum value £60. A silent auction is also being arranged. Sponsors have been generous with their support, among them city-based marketing company Metrix Marketing which is sponsoring one of the 14 races.

Maggie Perkins, one of the organisers, said: “stadium regulars will be familiar with the charity night concept but thanks to some creative thinking several new elements have been added to raise as much money as possible for the appeal. We hope to see you there!”

• To book a table or to make a donation, please contact maggie.perkins@btconnect.com

CARE

matters WANTED! LADIES WHO DO BREAKFASTS (AND ARE LOOKING FOR PART TIME WORK!) Many families who visited relatives over the Christmas break may have realised that their Mum or Dad were not coping, and need a little extra help at home. Not just companionship, light housework or shopping, but help with getting up on a morning with a smiley face who knows their routine.

There are many families who don’t live close to each other, and although older relatives may put a brave face on there might well be a lonely Nanna or Grandpa who would love a chat over a cup of tea and a piece of toast.

So, we at Home Instead Senior Care are on a mission to find Ladies Who Do Breakfasts!

Would you like a little part time work in your village? It will help if you can cook. And better still if you have looked after someone before, are a Morning Sort of Person and can put a smile on someone’s face. We offer competitive rates of pay, mileage, flexible hours so you can fit this in around your other commitments, on-going training and best of all, the chance to feel brilliant about helping someone.

• If you can boil an egg, maybe do a traditional weekend cooked breakfast as a treat, and are looking for regular part time hours as a local job first thing in the morning, please call our office number: 01733 333342.

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W H AT’ S NEW T HIS MONT H

UpFront COME DINE WITH ME ’62 Love Me Do is a stylish 60s themed restaurant diner in Oundle, brought to you by Karen and Phil of Beans Coffee Stop, just across the road from Beans itself. Sitting inside what is arguably the best shop front in town, the interior of ’62 is tastefully decorated to recreate a 1960s diner, with a red and black interior and a mix of red and black leatherette seats offset by a collection of 60s memorabilia.

However, don’t be fooled by the diner image. Since last autumn the menu is much wider ranging, including home made steak pie, sausage and mash, gammon and egg, enchiladas, spaghetti Bolognese and other pasta dishes. The fresh salads take a lot of beating, as does the breakfast menu, offering pancakes with syrup New York style, as well as other choices including a ‘Full English’ as good as any top hotel offering!

Apart from tasty and great value dishes, ’62 Love Me Do also takes pride in its locally-sourced policy, with their burger and steak pie beef sourced from Seven Wells butchers, just two doors away (and from their farm a mile and a half down the road), with wines and beer from local suppliers Amps and Castor Ales. ’62 Love Me Do is a good alternative to the family restaurant chains, offering fabulously tasty food at attractive prices, and a level of personal service that only local independents can offer. It’s not surprising that it has become so popular with many regular diners from Oundle School, locals and not-so-locals alike, and it’s now also a sought-after party venue too.

READER OFFER TWO FOR ONE TICKETS TO A DOUBLE SHOW SPECTACULAR

ELECTRIC CARS ARRIVE IN PETERBOROUGH Electrical and mechanical engineering contractors KA Wing Ltd are taking measures to reduce the carbon footprint of their business. The company, based in Orton Southgate, Peterborough will soon be taking delivery of two of the first ‘born electric’ cars to be seen in the city.

Managing director David Lee said: “KA Wing is a well respected name in the design and installation of energy efficient lighting, power and control systems for clients not only in the Peterborough area, but throughout eastern England. Our company installed six charging points for electric vehicles in the car parks at Queensgate Shopping Centre last November but the benefits of electric over petrol had been on our radar for some time. We were excited to learn about the BMW i3 which is described as ‘born electric,’ meaning that it has been designed as electric from the drawing board rather than a petrol model that has been converted. It is emission free at point of use which means that we as a business reduce our carbon footprint considerably.”

Preparations are well underway for two great new shows that will be running side by side at the East of England Showground in March and we’ve teamed up with the organiser to offer NVL readers a great 2for1 ticket offer.

Over the weekend of 29-30 March, Aztec Events popular Robin Hood Game and Country Show and its All About Gardening Show David Woodhouse of Sycamore will be entertaining the crowds.

BMW added: “there are many So, whether you’re a serious game preconceptions surrounding electric enthusiast or looking for something cars, including that they might run to entertain the entire family, the Peterborough showground will have it all. out of charge. But there are 8,600 The main arena will feature Robin Hood and his Merry Men in thrilling displays of stunt riding charging points already in the UK, so and jousting by the leading Stampede Stunt Display Team, while the Countryside Arena will with the average driver covering just feature ferret racing, gundog scurry displays and medieval battles. Elsewhere, the All About 25 miles a day and the electric car Garden Show will offer the finest trees, shrubs, flowers and pot plants. Talks and demonstrations charging between 80 and 100 miles, by gardening experts, botanists and landscape designers will provide inspiration to transform it is unlikely that anyone would find your garden. Plus, there will be Shopping Villages and Indoor Marquees full of garden gadgets, themselves stuck.” homewares, plants and gifts, and Food Courts full of cheeses, sausages, fine wine, pickles, • The KA Wing Group Limited can chutneys and lots more. be contacted on 01733 370448 • To take advantage of our offer, visit www.aztecevents.co.uk and simply purchase two www.kawing.com tickets, quoting the promotional code NENE14 which will gain you entry to both shows.

Don’t delay as availability is limited.

Offer valid to 11.59hrs, March 25 2014.

Adults: £10 (£7.50 if booked in advance) Concessions £9 (£7.50 in advance) Congratulations to Vow Bridal Gallery, based in Wansford, which has won a National Children, 5-16 £5 (£2 in advance) Wedding Industry Award for the Best Menswear Provider 2014. Owners Lisa Smith and Dogs on a lead welcome. Show is open daily Dave Gallagher scooped the top title after their customers voted for them in their droves.

29 -30 March, 10am -5pm.

• Find out more at www.vowbridal.co.uk

STOP PRESS

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NENE VALLEY LIVING MARCH 2014

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Bavarian Beer Festival

at

The King’s Head Apethorpe

Saturday 7th June 4pm - FREE ENTRY LIVE MUSIC • BOUNCY CASTLE BAVARIAN FANCY DRESS HOG ROAST & GERMAN FOOD GERMAN BEER IN STEINS

© National Trust Images. Registered Charity Number 205846.

Tel: 01780 470627

Lyveden is open every day from 1 March between 10.30am and 5pm. A great place to enjoy a delicious treat in the Cottage Tea Room and then explore the springtime delights of this amazing Elizabethan landscape.

cream teas

Cut out this voucher to enjoy two cream teas for £5, Mon-Fri throughout March 2014.

01832 205158 nationaltrust.org.uk/lyveden

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Free Marquee Hi re Conditions apply

LUNCHTIME SPECIALS £8.95 - Tue – Sat Early Doors Buy ONE meal & get another HALF PRICE Tue – Sat (table clear by 8pm but only if required) The Famous Red Lion Sunday Lunch Serving at 12.00 noon, 1.00pm and 2.30pm

THE RED LION Warmington Tel: 01832 280362 A Great Country Pub • Real Home Produced Food • Homemade Desserts • Quality Real Ales • Candles, Fresh Flowers & Linen Napkins Bookings Now being taken for Easter Sunday & Mothers Day.

(booking essential)

New Garden Room Restaurant Open

Closed Mondays theredlionwarmington@gmail.com www.theredlionwarmington.co.uk

Open from 9am weds – sun

12 West St Oundle PE8 4EF 01832-274383

NEW MENU, includes steak pie, fish & chips, gammon, spare ribs, sausage & mash, lasagne, scampi, enchiladas, carbonara, and more!

The most fabulous breakfast experience.

Spoil yourselves with the ‘62 start to the day!

The most popular diner restaurant in Oundle has now become the party venue of choice for Oundle School pupils!

www.62lovemedo.co.uk

Everything available to take away!

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W H AT’ S NEW T HIS MONT H

UpFront NENE VALLEY LIVING

recommends

THE KINGS HEAD, APETHORPE

A TASTY, NUTRITIOUS DISH FOR LUNCH OR DINNER BEETROOT BURGERS WITH KALE AND QUINOA SALAD Ingredients • 200g quinoa • 350g beetroot (about three) peeled and grated • 150g carrots (two to three) peeled and grated • One apple, peeled and grated • One small onion, finely sliced • 120g breadcrumbs • 2 large eggs, beaten • Leaves from two sprigs fresh thyme • Oil for frying

• 200g curly kale leaves, finely chopped • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley • Zest and juice of one lemon • Sea salt and ground black pepper • Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling • A dollop of sour cream or yoghurt • 2 teaspoons caraway seeds, dry roasted in a pan for 30 seconds

Method Cook the quinoa according to instructions and leave to cool. Mix together the beetroot, carrot, apple, onion, breadcrumbs, thyme and eggs. Season with pepper. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes then form into eight flattish burgers. Fry in a little oil on both sides until lightly browned. Transfer to a non stick tray. Bake at 190 degrees centigrade for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, mix the quinoa with the raw kale, parsley, lemon zest and juice and season. Drizzle with a little olive oil. Serve with the burgers and the yoghurt, sprinkled with caraway seeds.

• To order a box, call 01780789700 or visit www.riverford.co.uk

eat well

with Riverford

get a free cook book with your vegbox

try a seasonal organic vegbox today with free delivery

Is there anything nicer than going out for Sunday lunch in a country pub? Well, that depends on the pub I suppose, but we are lucky to have a number of excellent destinations in our area. The Kings Head, Apethorpe, is one of them. It benefits from a very cosy bar area where the fire is always burning, a large dining room at the back of the pub and the warmest of welcomes. We sat by the fire with our menus and deliberated over a number of appetising choices. Starters included seared scallops with pea puree and crispy bacon, or a trio of melted artisan cheeses served with home made bread. However, we resisted as we wanted to do justice to the main event. Perry settled on a main course of roast beef with roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding and gravy, I opted for the roast leg of English lamb with potatoes, stuffing and gravy, and son Carey tried the Breton Chicken, which combines chicken, leeks and bacon in a creamy white wine and Dijon mustard sauce, served on a bed of parsley mashed potato. The roast dinners are fantastic value at £8.95. They come on a large white plate, with generous slices of meat, plenty of gravy, three roast potatoes, and my lamb included some delicious roast parsnips and a ball of savoury stuffing, a lovely combination. A dish of seasonal vegetables, greens and carrots, arrived too. Carey’s Breton chicken was extremely flavoursome, and he loved the creamy mash, although he did cast envious looks at his Dad’s plate of roast beef which was perfectly pink in the middle, and the giant Yorkshire pud with its crispy top.

The dessert menu is concise and we took no time at all to make our choices. Perry and Carey went for the sticky toffee pudding served with toffee sauce and vanilla ice cream, and I chose lemon tart with mango sorbet. Sticky toffee pudding can sometimes be dry, or obviously microwaved, but this dessert was moist, piping hot and garnished with bananas, so it had a pleasant ‘banoffee’ taste.

My lemon tart, served prettily on a slate with a raspberry coulis, was perfect: crisp base of very thin pastry, and a tangy topping.

The waiting team are young and incredibly efficient, and we didn’t have to wait for our meals, despite the fact that the restaurant and bar area were full and there was a large party celebrating a birthday nearby.

Landlords Simon and Charlotte run a lively business, with many themed nights, and new ideas. Currently, they offer sharing plates for friends (every day except Sundays): you could pop in for a drink and have five hot snacks for £10, including cheesy nachos, home made chips, hot dogs, whitebait and cod goujons. It’s just what a village pub should be and we’ll definitely return soon.

Fiona Cumberpatch • It is best to book for Sunday lunch as the pub gets very busy. Kings Cliffe Rd, Apethorpe, PE8 5DG Tel: 01780 470627. Check the website for forthcoming events, www. kingsheadapethorpe.co.uk

free

cook book* (worth £16.99)

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

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

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L O CA L BUSINE SSE S

High Street Update With its beautiful architecture and mix of quirky, independent shops, Oundle’s high street is an interesting place to shop. But how are the town’s newest retailers faring? We round up the latest shops and businesses to have opened their doors in town. By Lucy Banwell

T

ake a brief stroll around Oundle’s historic Market Place and it’s hard to miss the plethora of independent shops which define the town and provide residents with an array of goods and services on their doorstep. Many of these retailers are following in a fine family tradition - Norman’s greengrocers, for example, has been run by the same family for more than 65 years – and others, such as Cotton’s shoe shop and Amps Fine Wines have such established reputations they attract trade from far outside Northamptonshire.

So, what of the newer offerings to have hit the high street recently? We’ve see gift shops, food outlets and a hairdresser open their doors. Some of them may be new to the retail scene but there’s one thing every one of them has in common with Oundle’s more established traders – an absolute passion for what they do. No-one embodies this more than Devines Deli founder Emma Turner.

Having opened the shop on West Street in June 2013, Emma and her mother Marina have brought a ‘Best of British’ deli to Oundle stocking the finest homemade, artisan products with a big emphasis on customer service.

Emma is a living example of what a healthy, quality diet can achieve.

“Seven years ago, I lost 16 stone in weight,” admits Emma, now a svelte figure in her skinny jeans. “I did it by eating in moderation and having a predominantly non-processed diet. So I developed a massive passion for quality food, and when I started researching British produce I realised that the quality of what we produce in the UK really is outstanding.”

Devines stocks various fresh deli products as well as exclusive UK-made wines, cooking sauces, condiments and chocolates, but it’s the British cheeses which are the deli’s biggest sellers.

“We stock Tunworth, a British Camembert which Raymond Blanc has described as the best cheese in the world,” says Emma. ‘And our pies and scotch eggs sell really well, too.”

But although Emma has a loyal customer base, she says that her trade has been hit by the arrival of Waitrose. “I really need to call on the support of the people in the town to shop locally and make sure their high street survives,” says Emma.

So, to celebrate our independent retailers, we take a look at the businesses which have recently launched in Oundle and see what they have to offer…

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ASHA’S Opened in September 2012, Barbara Katavich’s gorgeous interiors shop sells gifts, homewares and furniture. An upholstery service is offered as well as workshops on how to transform your wooden items of furniture with the use of Annie Sloan chalk paints.

The Bazaar, West Street 01832 275605 PAUL WATTS HAIRDRESSSING The latest salon to open in Paul Watts’ group of hairdressing shops offers a stylish interior and award-winning hair cuts. Feedback we’ve heard so far is that the stylists listen to the customer’s requirements and deliver excellent results.

2a St Osyths Lane www.paulwattshairdressing. co.uk 01832 358543 ANTLER LANGUAGES This language school offers residential English courses for European students as well as foreign language courses for locals. Antler is currently looking for additional host families in the area to have a student to stay during in the summer. Host families receive £25 per night to cover expenses.

Also on offer are Spanish classes which will run from 7pm-9pm on Tuesday evenings from 29th April for 10 weeks at a cost of £130 for the course.

The Old Town Hall, Market Place www.antlerlanguages.co.uk 01832 275319

ODYSSEY From her kitchen in North Jericho, just off the Market Place, Anita Hunt sells homemade olive oil soap, hand-painted furniture and cards.

North Jericho 01832 275078 BEAUTY WITH RUTH Now under new management in the form of experienced beautician Rachel Cobley, the salon has been completely redecorated to create a minimalist feel. As well as a range of new treatments, Beauty with Ruth now also offers beauty and massage courses.

3 West Street 01832 275578 ROMEJO’S Set up by Maggie Meigh and her husband Paul last year, Romejo’s sells glamorous gift items, Italian handbags and accessories.

15 Market Place www.romejos.co.uk 01832 272165 SMALL BREAD COMPANY Opened in December, this new bakery sells delicious handmade loaves, focaccias, rolls, French pastries and cakes.

20 Market Place www.thesmallbreadcompany.com 01832 270938 DEVINES DELI Stocks British-made, artisan products such as cheeses, pies, cooking sauces and wines.

Takeaway lunches and a bespoke catering service are also offered.

Devines’ lunchtime Meal Deal includes a panini or wrap with your choice of freshly-made fillings, a packet of crisps, a cookie or a cup cake and a cold drink, tea or coffee, for £4.99.

10b West Street 01832 274396 www.devinesdeli.co.uk

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Annie Sloan Painting Workshops Beginners Workshop £75.00 Including lunch Thursday 6th March 2014 Saturday 15th March 2014 Friday 21st March 2014 Advanced Workshop £85.00 Including lunch Thursday 27th March 2014 Lampshade Workshop - Launch date Monday 17th March 2014 Make your own bespoke fabric lampshade £45.00 - 2 1/2 hours with refreshments

It’s new, it’s exciting and it’s at Asha’s Asha’s, The Bazaar, West Street, Oundle, PE8 4EJ Telephone 01832 275605 Email: barbara@ashas.net - www.ashas.net

Romejos of Oundle have some lovely new gifts and plenty of ideas and items to make your house a home; from jewellery and faux furs, furniture, sumptuous top quality Italian silks and leather handbags, men’s shaving accessories, Mother’s Day gifts, to presents and little touches to make a wedding day really special.

Like us, comment or better still review us on FACEBOOK (romejos.shop) for a chance to win a silk scarf, iPad case or glass stacking jars. If you haven’t already done so, join our mailing list to receive your MONEY OFF VOUCHER to be used on our

OPEN EVENING FRIDAY 7th MARCH 5 TIL 8 We love and value our customers.

Come along for a glass of Prosecco or two, peruse in peace and be rewarded!

It shows..... when you have been to Romejo’s

15 Market Place, Oundle PE8 4BA

Tel: 01832 272165 13

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T

he Black Horse has all the comforts and amenities you expect from a local country pub.

Whether you’re here with us on business, for pleasure, or attending or organising an event, you have access to a range of superb facilities for an effortless, enjoyable experience.

Planning a meeting or event?

Our meeting and events facilities are completely separate from the rest of the pub, but share its striking design and impeccable service standards. Our meeting room is fully equipped with LCD projector and screen, plus wifi internet access for up to 30 delegates. You also have a huge choice of freshly prepared food and drink.

Ideal for intimate parties and celebrations, our Private Dining Room stylish, spacious and impeccably prepared, can accommodate a small, private party with close friends and family.

Food & Drink Defined by its relaxed, informal setting and glittering chandeliers, The Black Horse serves a menu of European classics with a distinctly British twist. Drop in for a coffee at any hour from lunch to bedtime, join us for lunch or dinner, a cheap pint at Happy Hour between 5pm-7pm or treat yourself to our legendary Sunday Roast.

Grab a bargain and join us for our Early Bird menu available Monday – Saturday between 6pm-7pm offering two delicious main meals and a bottle of dangerously drinkable house wine for £25.

To avoid disappointment please contact us to make your reservation: 01832 281222 The Black Horse, 14 Overend, Elton, Peterborough, PE8 6RU

14

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19/02/2014 13:56

FOOD & DR INK

Food News All the latest on local food and drink

This month, our reviewers test two local hotel kitchens…

THE TALBOT HOTEL, OUNDLE

The Eatery is a good name for the restaurant at The Talbot Hotel in Oundle. Not that the food isn’t of quality restaurant standard, it is (with an AA Rosette to prove it) but the relaxed atmosphere and variety of seating and menu options refute any preconceptions of stuffy hotel fare. Guests staying here would find themselves instantly immersed in the local scene, for Oundle residents drop into the Eatery for anything from coffee, cake and a chat to a celebration dinner.

Couples, groups of friends, mums and toddlers, parents with teenagers and a party of three generations with a family birthday are all part of the mix on this Saturday lunchtime. The Talbot is very family friendly and offers a children’s menu.

In the white-painted, high-ceilinged Garden Room, I’m given two menus: the main one, well considered, sensibly sized and priced, is served at lunch (12 to 2.30pm) and dinner (6 to 9.30pm), while the Sandwiches, Platters and Afternoon Tea version is offered from noon to 6pm. So from mid-day, all hunger levels and food fancies are catered for (there’s breakfast and brunch from 8am to noon).

The day’s special soup is celeriac with truffle oil and without prompting I’m advised that it contains dairy, “just in case you’re allergic”. The service here is relaxed and friendly and the menu is well signposted to indicate vegetarian and gluten-free options, even dishes that can be made gluten-free by substituting some ingredients.

Everything is made and cooked to order and the wait is worth it.

Looking around I see the sharing platters are popular, as are the burgers, which bear no relationship to the fast food variety, come with hand-cut chips and look very tempting.

The flavours and textures of my seared scallops seated on rounds of black pudding, served with a light apple and ginger purée and topped with parsnip crisps, blend perfectly. Unable to decide on the orange friendly service, I thought the Eatery provided very good value. custard or vanilla ice cream to accompany the wonderfully crunchy Sue Dobson apple crumble, I ask if it’s possible to have a little of each. It is, and • The Talbot Hotel, New Street, Oundle PE8 4EA; Tel: 01832 both are excellent.

273621 www.thetalbot-oundle.com With delicious food attractively presented, generous servings and

THE BULL HOTEL, PETERBOROUGH

We visited The Bull in Peterborough city centre on a cold, wet Sunday lunchtime, and were soon greeted with a warm welcome and shown to our table in the brasserie restaurant. We chose from a simple yet effective Sunday lunch menu served until 6pm. Drinks arrived quickly

and we were offered bread and a jug of water for the table. Two of our party chose the Caesar Salad with chargrilled chicken and a hens’ egg, which was cooked perfectly with a soft boiled middle. I had the smoked salmon with capers and lemon, which was a generous portion.

The three of us went for a roast dinner, the men opting for roast sirloin of beef. I chose the slow roasted shoulder of lamb. The beef was sliced thickly with just the right amount of pink, and it arrived on warm plates, with crispy roast potatoes. The lamb was succulent and tender, and came with plenty of mint sauce. We each had a little bowl of vegetables which included baked red cabbage and roast carrots and parsnips. All were delicious although I would have liked some steamed vegetables as an accompaniment to cut through the richness of the meal.

We could not resist dessert. Tim and Matt chose the Winter Berry Mess with Gingerbread, which they described as delicious.

I had Bakewell tart with clotted cream, perfect cooked crisp pastry with a subtle almond topping.

The Bull offers good value at £14.95 for two courses, or £16.95 for three. We were well looked after by attentive staff and it is an ideal venue for family lunches. The hotel also offers regular Lazy Sunday Brunches with jazz, which are very popular.

Bridget Steele • For more information on the Lazy Sunday Brunches, or to book a table, call 01733 561364 or email events@bull-hotelpeterborough.com www.peelhotels.co.uk NENE VALLEY LIVING MARCH 2014

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• NVL march ADS.indd 16

19/02/2014 13:56

Our experience makes yours Find your perfect holiday with your local, independent & friendly travel experts

SPOTLIGHT ON BUDAPEST

S

tylish, attractive, relatively unspoilt and gateway to East Europe, Budapest is a hot destination at the moment. After centuries of destructive wars followed by dramatic rebuilds this city offers an eclectic collection of architectural styles ranging from Roman ruins to Turkish, neo-Gothic, Art Nouveau and Stalinist block house chic.

The city’s restaurants and bars follow the eclectic party line too with quality offerings from goulash to sushi, premium lagers to exotic cocktails and giant café lattes for your wake-up call before hitting the sensational thermal baths. Public transport is efficient, easy and good value and the ambience is free.

Budapest is a merger of two towns: Buda on the hilly, quietly regal west bank of the Danube River and busy Pest on the east.

Buda: Budapest - unlike Prague - is big enough to absorb the tourist crowds except in Buda’s Castle District where the stunning views from Fisherman’s Bastion are the premier attraction and night-time floodlights turn the area into a Disney fantasy.

Among other Buda offerings are walks on the old castle ramparts, the Royal Palace and its museums, 700 year old Matthias Church, the underground Labyrinth, the Citadella and the thermal baths in the superb Art Nouveau Gellert Hotel.

Don’t miss Statue Park, a collection of monumental Soviet era mega-heroes set in stone. Pest is the place for shopping, bopping and neo-neo land, including the neo-Renaissance State Opera House and St Stephen’s Basilica, neo-Gothic Parliament and neo-Classical National Museum.

Margaret Island is for culture day release, an oasis of trees, flowers, swimming pools, spa hotels and a theatre with musical evenings.

Bicycles are available for rent.

With a wide range of hotel options available to suit all budgets, it is the perfect short break destination. For something special try the 5* Boscolo Budapest - this hotel is truly spectacular and is one of Budapest’s

finest buildings, brought back to its original splendour. Combining antique with contemporary design, the focal point of the hotel is the historic New York Café which was the centre of Budapest’s vibrant artistic and cultural life at the turn of the 20th Century. Stay 3 nights for the price of 2 – From £576.00 per person.

For a smaller property The Three Corners Art Hotel is a 3* hotel that is hard to beat.

Friendly staff offer a warm welcome and it is a great choice for a modern convenient base in the heart of this beautiful city – From £389.00 per person.

For up to date prices please contact Oundle Travel who will be happy to advise on 01832 273600. www.oundletravel.co.uk.

01832 273600

Market Place, Oundle, Peterborough, PE8 4EA Email: sales@oundletravel.co.uk Website: www.oundletravel.co.uk

17

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20/02/2014 12:25

HEA LTH & BE AUT Y

Health & Beauty Notes All the latest on local health and beauty businesses. By Bridget Steele HOW PETERBOROUGH IS HELPING PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA Peterborough City Council is joining forces with The Alzheimer’s Society to make Peterborough a dementia-friendly city.

There are over sixteen hundred people in the city living with the condition, and the new iniatitive includes the opening of a Dementia Resource Centre in Lincoln Road, Peterborough this spring which will act as a one stop shop for advice, information and support. Other projects include the development of a network of dementia ‘cafes’, encouraging community members to become dementia champions and engaging with leisure providers to ensure activities are on offer to people with the condition.

Peterborough is one of 50 areas in the UK working to become dementia friendly and currently includes the NHS, voluntary workers, home care providers, as well as the likes of Queensgate, The Rotary Club, Boots and Vivacity, and it is hoped that community groups, schools and businesses will join the alliance.

Jana Burton, Executive DIrector of Adult Social Care, Health and Wellbeing said “We want to ensure people living in Peterborough with dementia, and their carers, are able to get the help they need in everyday life and continue to do things they enjoy.”

• For more information or to speak to someone about getting support for dementia please contact Alzheimer’s Society, Peterborough on 01733 893853.

TREAT YOUR SPORTS INJURIES The Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre has come to the Vivacity Premier Fitness in Hampton. After opening in July of last year at Greetham Valley Hotel, Golf and Conference Centre, P&SI is operating two treatment rooms out of the brand new premium gym providing a number of different services to the people of Hampton, Peterborough and surrounding areas. Specialising in sports injuries and rehabilitation the Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre @ Vivacity Premier Fitness provides treatments including Musculoskeletal Assessments and General Physiotherapy, Sports Massage, Podiatry and Chiropody, Dietetics and Nutrition all under one roof. As well as having current Peterborough United FC Doctor and Sports Physician Dr David Holmes working on site, the aim of the centre is to provide elite level treatment to the general public at an affordable price.

• Website www.physiosportsinjury-hampton.co.uk Email info@physiosportsinjury-hampton.co.uk Phone 01733 890685

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BRA FITTING AT EVE

A good fitting bra gives you support, a great shape, is comfortable and makes clothes look and feel better. Rachel Palmer, Proprietor of Eve Lingerie in Oundle says: “many women who have never had a fitting before can feel a bit apprehensive, but it is a discreet, professional service and can transform the way you look and feel. Often women imagine they will be standing topless in the changing room, but we can normally tell your size simply by looking at you. We tend not to use a tape measure, as different makes and styles of bra will fit differently.”

Women have a tendency to stick with a size or style of bra and Rachel said about 80% of us are in the wrong one. I made an appointment for a fitting and even before I had tried anything on, Rachel was able to show me different styles that she thought would work well with my shape. Rachel checked them for fit and I was able to choose the ones I liked. I was surprised at the wide selection and my biggest problem was choosing which to go for from the beautiful ranges such as Marie Jo, Huit, Freya, Elle Macpherson, Fantasie and more. There was no pressure to buy, and to make things easier in the future, Rachel keeps a customer card so I can go back and remember what I had tried on and liked.

I would recommend any woman to go and have a proper bra fitting, and going into an independent store like Eve, where you get great personal service and professional advice, is a relaxed and enjoyable experience.

Eve offers fitting for women at all stages of their lives including first bras, nursing and mastectomy bras. There is also a great selection of sports bras, swim wear and Pure Lime exercise wear.

• For more information contact Eve, The Bazaar, West Street, Oundle, Peterborough, PE8 4EJ Tel: 01832 273969

NENE VALLEY LIVING MARCH 2014

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Lingerie | Swimwear |Accessories

• Lingerie from A-K cups • Professional Fitting Service • Swimwear • Mastectomy Bras • Maternity Bras • Sports Bras Stockists of • Elle Macpherson • Freya • Fantasie • Huit • Marie Jo • Marie Jo L’Aventure • Seafolly • Wolford & many more

01832 273969

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

Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre Hampton

Who we are The new centre presents the multidisciplinary team of a Sports Physician, Physiotherapist, Podiatrist and Dietitian all under one roof. The team aims to provide elite level treatment methods to the general public.

Treatments we offer General Physiotherapy and Musculoskeletal Assessment Sports Injury Assessment and Rehabilitation Sports Massage, General Massage and Spinal Manipulation Post Operative Rehabilitation Chiropody and Sports Podiatry Gait Analysis and Orthotics Dietetics and Sports Nutrition General Fitness Assessments

For further enquiries or to book an appointment call: 01733 890685 email: info@physiosportsinjury-hampton.co.uk visit: www.physiosportsinjury-hampton.co.uk

‘Caring for Local Athletes’ 19

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20/02/2014 12:25

FAS HION & BE AUT Y

A makeover at Beales

As the winner of our fantastic makeover competition, Karen Craig recently enjoyed a full day of pampering at Beales department store in Park Road, Peterborough Words: Fiona Cumberpatch Photos: Lesley Anne Churchill

W

hen Karen Craig arrived for her day at Beales department store, she was still coming to terms with the fact that she had won the NVL/Beales competition launched last December. “It’s fantastic and unbelievable,” she said. “I like clothes, but I have never had a lot of time to think about my appearance. It will be so nice to have some help.”

Married with two grown up sons, Karen, 54, works part time in Human Resources at Peterborough City Council, and she is also studying hard for a business degree at University Centre, Peterborough. Her day started with fresh coffee and pastries in Beales Café Nova, and then she went to Westgate Optical, within the store, for an eye test.

Greeted warmly by branch manager Belinda Bulpit, Karen firstly had a consultation with optician Charlotte Wilson. This took 45 minutes and included a full vision test, family history of any eye problems, and eye health advice.

The result was that Karen needed new reading glasses. With £200 in the prize budget, Belinda discussed Karen’s preferences, looked at her face shape, and then showed her a selection of designer frames from names such as MaxMara, Ghost, Lacoste, Boss and Calvin Klein. “There is so much choice!” was Karen’s verdict, and she was happy when Belinda presented her with a shortlist of three styles, then tried them on for comfort, bridge fitting and whether the styles were flattering. With Karen’s choice of a pair of bold, modern frames, Belinda advised her to opt for an anti-glare coating on her lenses, which is ideal for working on the computer, something Karen does frequently as she studies.

Now Karen was whisked through to the chiropody department, where she had a consultation and pampering session with Len Kirkby. The treatment includes cleansing, callous removal, and a foot massage. Any problems are also checked out and further treatment advised, if necessary.

After lunch, Karen was ready to have her hair cut and restyled by Nik Doughty, manager and senior stylist in the Stylistics salon. Nik suggested that Karen’s heavy fringe was not flattering to her features, so he suggested taking the weight out of her fringe. As her hair is wavy, he left her bob long at the sides, but angled it up at the back. Subtle caramel highlights were put in to add dimension to Karen’s dark hair. “Having colour added does not have to be in your face, it can be very subtle: classy not brassy,” advised Nik. The resulting style was sophisticated and so much softer than Karen’s previous look, and she was delighted.

It was time to go into make up, and Estée Lauder consultant Chrissy Brown was ready

20

Before: Karen C ig arriv for her makeover to help Karen with her new look.

Karen has great skin, which Chrissy thoroughly assessed before toning and cleansing. Karen admitted that she was not a huge fan of a made up look, but she did wish that she knew how to enhance her eyes. Chrissy showed her that make up need not be heavy.

She applied a satin finish foundation using a brush for an even tone.

“Estée Lauder are renowned for their foundation, and we pride ourselves on finding the perfect match for every customer,” said Chrissy.

She chose a palette of pinks and browns to bring out Karen’s blue eyes. Using tiny strokes, she lightly pencilled in her brows for added definition. A little eye liner was then added to frame Karen’s eyes. A natural mascara completed the effect. Chrissy then chose a peachy, pink blusher to warm Karen’s complexion. A flattering pink lipstick completed the consultation, which is available to book for Beales customers.

Finally, Karen was ready to meet fashion adviser Barbara Hammond. Karen was going to experience Beales personal shopper service with VIP changing rooms. Barbara had selected six dresses from Beales Collection for Karen to choose from. It was love at first sight: Karen opted immediately for a floral wrap dress which really flattered her figure. Barbara suggested some bright red patent court shoes by Hush Puppies to complete the outfit. “They’re a great colour, a really modern shape, with a chunky

arlotte eye t t with ChOp Wilson at W tgate tic

Karen’s new r ng glass heel, I love them,” was Karen’s verdict.

The finishing touch was a black handbag by Juno, large enough to hold Karen’s books and a laptop, and she was presented with a bouquet of flowers and a bottle of fizz by store director David Butler. “I am so thrilled by the day,” said Karen. “It has been even better than I imagined.

It was so relaxing and everyone made me feel very special. The customer care has been absolutely wonderful.”

As she left to meet her husband and friends for dinner at Café Clarkes at the Key Theatre, Peterborough, Karen took a last look in the mirror. “I really did not believe that I could look like this,” she said.

• Beales Department Store.

Telephone 01733 887930

NENE VALLEY LIVING MARCH 2014

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Nik at Styli ics giv with a Karen a fr h lookghlights cut d subtle hi

Karen’s makeover is complete, with dr s by B l Collection, sho

by Hush Puppi d bag by Ju (below le )

nsul nt E ee ’ Lauder co a Chrissy Brown cr ted nat look for Karen Karen pos for the NVL photog pher

The B l t m­ with ore rector David Butler (far le ) NENE VALLEY LIVING MARCH 2014

20 21 BEALES.indd 3

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20/02/2014 23:32

HEALT H

Body and soul Physiotherapist Helen Preston is expanding her Peterborough clinic to include new, complementary therapies such as Mindfulness training.

Words: Lucy Banwell Photo: Tim Steele

W

hen Helen Preston decided to follow a career in physiotherapy it was the most natural choice in the world. Not only was her father, William, a well-known physiotherapist in the Peterborough area - having set up the clinic which Helen now runs - her grandfather, Albert, was the physio for Peterborough United for 25 years.

“People still come up to me and say, “Was your grandad the Posh physio?”,’ laughs Helen.

‘I’ve also had patients tell me they saw me take my first steps in the clinic because I grew up in the house where my dad had his treatment rooms. There are pictures of me aged four dressed up as a nurse helping out!”

Since taking over the practice in 2000 when her father retired, Helen has built on his reputation in the physiotherapy world to create a modern clinic which now offers treatments such as acupunture, podiatry and sports massage alongside its core physiotherapy work. The majority of Helen’s clients come to her for help with back pain or sports injuries but she also treats younger patients as the physio-in-residence at Oundle School and The Peterborough School.

The expanded clinic, which now employs eight physios, underwent a complete rebranding last year to reflect the multidisciplinary approach the practice now adopts.

“We’re now known as Prestons Health rather than Prestons Physiotherapy Clinic because it better encompasses all that we do,” explains Helen. “We take a holistic view of a client’s problem and all of us at Prestons Health are commited to working within our own scope of practice. People often come to us without having seen a doctor first so we effectively have to triage them and decide whether it is within our scope to treat their ailment. We work very closely with consultant orthopaedic surgeons and rheumatologists and often refer patients on to them.

“We tend to look at the whole picture – lifestyle, physical activity, sleep quality. The latter is often a key cause of why people have health issues. One of the biggest risk factors for back pain, for example, is insufficient sleep.

22

There’s a real health promotional side to what we do which is why we’ve introduced additional services such as our yoga classes which can be really helpful with stress and how that manifests itself within the body.”

Another add-on now offered at Prestons Health is the latest buzzword in complementary therapy – Mindfulness training. “It’s essentially about being in the present moment,” says Helen. “Rather than thinking about the past or worrying about the future it’s about being in the now. It’s a deep training for the mind and it helps us gain a resilience for life.

“Mindfulness has a really strong evidence base. Studies have shown that after eight weeks of mindfulness training, physical changes can be found within the brain.”

It’s crucial to Helen that any alternative therapies offered at Prestons Health are scientifically proven to be effective. Helen is keen to expand the business further to include additional treatments where appropriate, and she’s also hoping to open a sister clinic in the future – possibly in Stamford.

“I’ve come to the conclusion that in order to have good quality health and a good sense of vitality we need to be training the body and the mind,” says Helen. “If you’re training both then you’re going to be functioning well both physically and emotionally. And essentially that’s what good health is all about.”

What is Mindfulness?

The term ‘Mindfulness’ refers to a practice which combines meditation and breathing techniques to increase awareness of the present moment. It is thought that by becoming more aware of our thoughts and feelings we become better equipped to deal with them. The practice can be particularly beneficial for patients with depression, anxiety and addiction, and it has also been shown to have a positive effect on physical problems such as chronic pain or fibromyalgia.

“I believe that mindfulness can benefit everybody,” says Helen Preston. “All my staff at the clinic have received mindfulness training and I use it myself to help cope with a busy lifestyle managing two young children, a business and my work as a physio.”

• The next Mindfulness course at Prestons Health is a two-part workshop hosted by experienced practitioner Barbara Reid on 18th March and 1st April 10am–midday at the Alexandra Road clinic.

• For more information contact Prestons Health on 01733 565911 www.prestonshealth.co.uk

NENE VALLEY LIVING MARCH 2014

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Offering a holistic approach to your healthcare:

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

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

Clinics in Peterborough and Oundle.

Private Psychological Therapy Service

Johan Truter

Chartered Clinical Psychologist Specialised in treating the following areas: • Low self esteem and loss of confidence • • Anxiety, panic and stress • • Depression, low mood and despair • • Phobias, obsessions and ruminations •

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

For further information please contact

01780 758556

Orion House, 14 Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE

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Küchen Kraft w w w. k u c h e n k r a f t . c o . u k 23

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19/02/2014 13:57

KITCHEN PHOTOS: KUCHEN KRAFT, LIFESTYLE PHOTOS: THE ROUNDED HOUSE

H OM E INT E R IOR S

The heart of the home

Planning a new kitchen? Read our guide to the latest trends this season. It’s all about greys, greens and smooth lines. By Lucy Banwell

N

ow that spring is around the corner, what better time of year to start thinking about refreshing your kitchen? With more people than ever deciding to stay put in the current economic climate rather than move house, the demand for kitchen refurbishments is greater than ever.

“I think there’s been a period of holding back over the last year or so, but now the market’s very busy,” says Nick Hurford, director of Peterborough kitchen and bathroom specialist Hurford & Tebbutt. “There’s a better outlook now, so people are getting on with revamping their kitchens. We’ve had a lot of enquiries recently – either from people planning a refurbishment of their existing space or from customers wanting to kit out a new extension.

There really is a sense of everything springing back to life.”

With things looking up and customers willing to invest in their homes once again, what are the key looks for Spring 2014? According to Guy Bolsover of Oundle’s Kuchen Kraft, the hot new colours for this season are greys and greens. “The dark colours have gone,” says Guy. “What we’re seeing instead this season is lighter colours. They’re more more practical because

24

they shows less marks, less dirt, and they’ve also got more longevity to them in terms of taste.

“Greys and earthy colours are becoming more and more popular – both for contemporary gloss kitchens and more traditional shaker styles. Our biggest sellers are still the creams and the ivories, but this season you’ll start to see more people venturing into greys and greens. It’s the area of contemporary kitchens in which this is growing the most.

People are becoming bolder, maybe mixing wood with their glossy finishes to create contrasting areas, rather than a bank of one colour.”

Creating curves The other big area of growth in kitchens lies in curved designs. Thanks to new technology, cabinets made from 100% acrylic can now be heat moulded into curves to create a wave-like pattern along a run of units.

“Curves are definitely the in thing this spring,” says Guy. “We’ve recently taken on a new product called Parapan which gives a solid, 100% acrylic door. The colours are incredible and it’s very hard wearing. And because it can

be moulded into any shape you can create a completely bespoke kitchen with this material. It is at the top end price wise, but it’s an amazing product.”

Along with these super-smooth cabinet doors goes a handle-free design giving clean, sleek lines to a kitchen. With these designs, the handle is either hidden in the side of the door or an electric mechanism can be fitted enabling a door or drawer to open automatically at the push of a finger.

Other popular gadgets this season include built-in coffee machines, steam ovens and warming drawers which can either heat plates or keep cooked food warm. Quooker taps which dispense instant boiling water are also still a popular addition to the sink area.

Hurford & Tebbutt are the major stockist of Neff appliances in the area and their ‘Slide and Hide’ ovens are currently flying off the shelves.

“This is the oven which was featured on TV’s Great British Bake Off,” explains Nick Hurford.

“You open the oven door and then it slides underneath allowing really good access to the oven. It’s become quite a hit and is unique to Neff.”

As far as kitchen assessories are concerned,

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Cooking up a storm Need some fresh accessories for your kitchen this spring? Here are some of the best local businesses to meet your needs…

Stu-Pots This Aladdin’s cave of kitchen shops offers everything and anything a cook needs from pretty china serving dishes to floral pinnies. The service here is second to none and nothing is too much trouble for proprietor Stuart and his staff.

36 Market Place, Oundle www.stu-pots.co.uk 01832 275414 Steamer Trading Cookshop This relatively new chain stocks Emma Bridgewater crockery, Anorak coasters and flasks, and an incredible range of chef’s knives from Victorinox, Global and Robert Welch. The bright, friendly store also carries a lovely array of quirky mugs and a colourful selection of kids’ crockery and cookie cutters.

7 High Street, Stamford www.steamer.co.uk 01780 756793 Sinclairs A specialist in china, porcelain, crystal and glass collectables, this Stamford stalwart also offers an interesting mix of kitchenwares including products from Jamie Oliver, Le Creuset and Cath Kidston.

11 St Mary’s Street, Stamford www. sinclairscollectables.com 01780 765421 Le Creuset Head to Peterborough Garden Park’s Le Creuset shop for classic French iron casseroles and stoneware dishes. The new ‘Cotton’ colour range blends perfectly with this season’s trend for neutrals and greys.

Unit 3, Peterborough Garden Park www. lecreuset.co.uk 01733 221 291

the grey and green theme continues this season coupled with copper accents.

“Copper is making a big comeback and works especially well in a kitchen,” says Sam Harper of The Rounded House, Oundle’s new online interiors boutique. ‘Copper pans and bakeware look fantastic in a pale kitchen and copper light fittings also work well.

“The Scandinavian look is set to be big this year,” continues Sam. “Think pale walls and floors with hits of accent colour, especially blues and greens. Natural wood can add warmth to this look and can be included in a scheme via chunky oak chopping boards and wooden open shelving. Stack piles of white china on these shelves and arrange alongside pretty storage jars and decorative items such as photo frames and candle sticks. Stick to a limited palate to create clean lines and to prevent it looking too cluttered.

“Blue and green are very on trend this season. Pick out accessories in these shades – such as our pale blue salt cellar and kitchen scales - to bring your look right up to date.”

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8 St Mary’s Street, Stamford www.lambsstamford.co.uk 01780 754 245 The Rounded House A new arrival to the kitchenware and gift market, this online and direct sales retailer based in Oundle offers stylish products for the home from suppliers such as Garden Trading. Free delivery on all orders over £20. www.theroundedhouse.com 01832 275272 Lakeland Unbeatable for kitchen gadgets and good value white china serving dishes. We also like their microwave steamers and silicone bakeware.

7-8 Church Street, Peterborough www. lakeland.co.uk 01733 561154 NENE VALLEY LIVING MARCH 2014

24 25 KITCHENS.indd 3

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FOOD & DR INK

Small is beautiful Mary Bremner visits a micro pub in Spalding.

Photos: Richard Faulks

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re you fed up with walking into a pub and being hit by the throbbing sound of a jukebox, the pinging of the slot machines and everyone shouting into their phones trying to be heard above the loud music? Some of these pubs are vast, the beer is poor and there’s just no soul. Granted a lot of them serve their purpose but sometimes it would be good to find a place that has just been stripped back to the basics – good beer and pleasant conversation.

Spalding businessman Charlie Rawlings and his partner Nathan Marshall felt much the same way so they decided to do something about it.

They’ve opened a micro pub bang in the centre of Spalding.

Micro pubs are popping up all over the country and Charlie’s venture is definitely worth a visit. The micro pub concept started in Kent and each pub stays true to the formula. As the name suggests, they are small, converted from an existing building, real ale is served, no lager, no alcopops, and there’s lots of lively banter as there aren’t any jukeboxes or slot machines.

Mobile phones are frowned upon.

Charlie’s pub, The Prior’s Oven, in the Sheep Market in Spalding certainly fits the bill. The building is Spalding’s oldest, and the pub is the town’s smallest. It holds 45 people at a squeeze, with room for 20 more upstairs. The building is octagonal, was a bakery for over 30 years

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and was connected to Spalding’s Priory which met its demise at the hands of Henry VIII. But wander into the pub and you’ll immediately see its ecclesiastical roots. The high domed ceiling gives the pub a light, airy feel making it feel much larger than it is. The octagonal bar in the middle is great for leaning on to chew the fat with other customers.

“I like my beer, real ale in particular, and started my own micro brewery about six years ago,’ Charlie told me. I’d come across a couple of micro pubs in Beverley and Newark, thought they were a great idea, and felt Spalding would benefit from one. When the old bakery came up for sale I knew it was the ideal location.”

“A micro pub is a pub with very low overheads. The buildings are meant to be tiny so conversion costs are very low, as are the start up costs. Therefore running costs are small so the pub can be kept very simple and should be able to survive in today’s competitive market. We sell six real ales and a locally produced cider. Gin and vodka made in Market Harborough, Chilean wine and not much else.

And people seem to love it.”

“We opened in early December and attracted a lot of attention from a wide variety of people.

We have the real ale aficionados but we also have the Young Farmers and couples, so we cater for all age groups, both sexes, and it’s

great to see everyone in here enjoying each others’ company.”

The beer isn’t expensive (£3 a pint) and is served out of casks. It’s locally produced, some

by Charlie himself, and is rotated regularly.

Guest beers appear all the time and a board tells you which ones are coming next and how strong they are. The pub is open seven days a week from 12-12. They don’t serve food as such, but you can usually find some pork pie or pasty on the bar, and there’s always a pickled egg – proper, old-fashioned pub food snacks.

Spalding itself is worth a visit. It’s easy to forget how attractive the town is with its lovely Georgian buildings, independent shops and the river running through the middle. This new pub gives the perfect excuse to take a trip out to the pretty Fenland town, admiring the enormous skies and vast tracts of farmland on the way.

The Prior’s Oven has been welcomed with open arms by the locals and publicans alike.

It’s a unique concept and one that every town would benefit from. Old, empty buildings are being utilised and, in many cases, saved, and it’s keeping town centres alive by attracting people to them.

Cheers to that.

• To find out more about micro pubs, and where to find them, visit www.micropubassociation.co.uk

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A Day Out In…

Northampton

ART & CULTURE

The recent creation of a ‘Cultural Quarter’ in the Guildhall Rd and Derngate reflects the city’s growing appeal to visitors.

The jewel in the crown is undoubtedly 78 Derngate, which is the only Mackintoshdesigned house in the UK. This is reason enough on its own for a visit to Northampton. See our focus article.

Also of considerable interest is the Northampton Museum & Art Gallery on Guildhall Rd. In recognition of the town’s heritage, the museum houses the largest collection of objects charting the history of shoes in the world.

The ground floor is dedicated to the display of footwear from ancient Egyptian times through to the present, which gets everyone talking (‘how did they stand on those?!’ or, ‘Oh my, I remember wearing shoes like those…’) The Shoe Lounge showcases current designers and manufacturers.

Entry is free, Tue-Sat 10am - 5pm, Sun 2pm5pm

Northampton Market

With its impressive Victorian and Edwardian architecture and a history as the UK’s shoe-making industry centre in the 19th and early 20th century, there’s lots to see and do in Northampton, as Nicholas Rudd-Jones discovers WHAT TO SEE AND DO

The town centre is based around St Giles St, The Ridings, The Guildhall and The Market Square with an array of independent shops and cafés and impressive architecture.

The most impressive Victorian building of all is The Guildhall, Built in 1864 by Edward Godwin in the ‘Ruskinian Gothic’ style, it’s now the offices of the Northampton All Saints’ Borough Council and is also Church available for events/weddings.

All Saints’ Church, George Row. There’s been a church on this spot for the past 1000 years, but the one you see now only came into existence after the great fire of 1675. Charles II contributed 1000 tons of timber from the Royal forests of Salcey and Rockingham for its re-building. To the rear of the church is Northampton’s War Memorial, designed by Sir Edward Lutyens, who also designed the Cenotaph. Find out more at www. allsaintsnorthampton.co.uk

Heading west on foot towards the station, you will come to St Peter’s, described as one of ‘the most outstanding Norman churches in the country’. The east end was rebuilt by Sir George Gilbert Scott in the 1850s and the whole church was re-roofed at that time (see www.fostp.org.uk for more info). It is no longer used as a place of worship but is open for visitors and is well worth visiting.

The most distinctive feature of the church is the original Norman intricately carved stone column capital heads, each unique and hand-carved in the 12th century by artisan stone masons.

Opening times: Wed-Sat 10am to 4pm, during which times there are volunteer guides available to give information about the history of the church and Northampton Castle, which was destroyed in The Civil War and stood nearby.

P Above: Jellie shows – The iconic jelly shoe created by Juju of Northampton Right: Guildhall

If you fancy a longer walk, why not head across Becket’s Park (which you see from 78 Derngate) to the River Nene (don’t forget to pronounce it ‘Nen’ hereabouts) and then perhaps west along the Nene Way to the Grand Union Canal Northampton arm.

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SHOPPING DISCOVERIES

Northampton Market dates from the turn of the 12th century and is one of the largest in England. Lots of good food & vegetable stalls, and much else besides. Open Mon-Sat. St Giles St has a whole range of interesting gift and art shops – worth a good browse, especially Abraxas Cookshop at 40-42 and J. Lawrence & Co Traditional Bakers at 35-37

PIT STOPS Dream Coffee Lounge, 59 St Giles St. People love the friendly service here and delicious light snacks.

Are You Being Served? 62 St Giles St. A genuine local café, always very popular.

78 Derngate A Really delightful tea room, overlooking Becket’s Park. Drinks are served in vintage crockery, and the homemade cakes are to die for.

GETTING THERE AND PARKING

It takes about an hour down the A43.

The road system is fairly simple to understand and there are several car parks. Albion Place Car Park (NN1 1UD) is convenient both for 78 Derngate and the centre of town.

A good website for finding out more about the town is www.lovenorthampton.co.uk

Focus on 78 Derngate – The Mackintosh House

St Giles St has a whole range of interesting gift and art shops – worth a good browse The Seafood Café, Giles St Tel: 01604 627989 We had a light lunch here and loved it. A cross between a simple restaurant and a takeaway, I can safely say ‘the best fish and chips that I have ever had!’ And there are many other seafood choices, including lobster, crab & oysters for the more sophisticated palate.

ES PLACAT TO E

Les Olives Tapas, 18B Sheep St (just north of the market) comes highly recommended for its range of delicious tapas dishes and fun atmosphere.

Evening Only Dang’s Vietnamese, 205 Wellingborough Rd Tel: 01604 607 060 gets a mention in the Michelin guide; “Passionately run, food is fresh, tasty and good value,”

78 Derngate is a Grade II* listed Georgian house, originally built in the 1820s. It was re-modelled in 1916 and 1917 by Charles Rennie Mackintosh for its forward-looking owner Mr. WJ Bassett-Lowke, a wellknown local businessman, model maker and advocate of functional modern design. It is Mackintosh’s only significant work in England.

Pamela Robertson, Professor of Mackintosh Studies at the Hunterian Art Gallery, University of Glasgow, says: “78 Derngate is of major importance in Mackintosh’s career. In terms of creative content, it is his most significant piece of design work after leaving Glasgow. The interiors strikingly and successfully combine visual impact with, for its day, high-tech infrastructure and the efficient and hygienic use of space.”

We went on a tour, lasting just over an hour, which was a delight from start to finish. The house, although small, has something of interest in every room, and the guide has many quirky stories to tell. It is the Dining Room and Guest Bedroom that will take your breath away, not least for their sheer feel of modernity.

Next to the house there is now a visitors’ centre, comprising art gallery and café/restaurant, also both recommended.

Tue-Sun 10.00am 5.00pm.

Last entry 4.30 pm.

Closed Mondays, (except Bank Holidays). Guided tours are recommended but not mandatory. Call ahead to book 82 Derngate Northampton NN1 1UH Tel: 01604 603407 www.78derngate.org.uk

Dining Room Guest bedroom

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PE OPLE Map by Simon Dolby

Dr Douglas Gyte

Promoting Peterborough As Strategic Tourism Manager at Peterborough City Council, Dr Douglas Gyte is raising the city’s profile.

He tells Sue Dobson about his plans

A

dmitting, “I talk too much, but then I’ve got a lot to talk about”, Dr Douglas Gyte reveals his passion for spreading the word about what Peterborough and the surrounding area has to offer, for both residents and visitors.

“Peterborough has grown from being a large town on the edge of several counties to become a city of influence. We may not be countybased like Lincoln or Cambridge, Leicester or Nottingham, but we are a key regional city that’s central to the East of England,” he says.

“In the past there’s been a tendency to view Peterborough in isolation, promoting its obvious assets like the Cathedral and ignoring what’s beyond the city boundaries. Yet location and setting, the countryside, towns and villages, have played an important role in its history and growth and are all part of what Peterborough is about.”

When we met he was finalising a new 76-page Handbook for Our City, “not the usual accommodation guide but designed to be read like a book.

It tells the story of our city, embraces the surrounding areas and shows just what an amazing place this is.”

Visitor economy Douglas is no stranger to the east of England. A geography graduate with a PhD on image of destination and holiday choice, he began his career in tourism development and marketing at South Holland District Council.

In the intervening years he’s worked in Dorset, where development strategy led to Weymouth and Portland hosting sailing events at the 2012 Olympics, and has helped to shape the visitor economy across Manchester, Liverpool, Blackpool, Cumbria and Chester.

As Strategic Tourism Manager at Peterborough City Council Commercial Operations his remit is to help take forward a unified vision for the city, develop the visitor economy and fulfil the potential of the tourism industry for the city of Peterborough and its region.

“Developing the visitor economy is about improving quality of life and quality of place so it’s good for living, working, investment and visiting.

I’m working on promoting the whole Peterborough region as much for local residents to realise and take advantage of the treasures on their doorstep, as expanding visitors’ image of the city and attracting business investment and jobs.”

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He believes that future sustainable growth is rooted in the community.

“Over the past few years, great strides have been made in making Peterborough a good place to live, with the regeneration of the town centre and an array of festivals and events focussing on the city’s heritage and culture, which have been enjoyed by thousands of local people and visitors. That development is ongoing and there are great plans to make more of the riverside. With our woods, water, country parks and nature reserves, we have the highest percentage of green space of any UK city. There’s a lot to be proud of here.”

Real England He’s keen that residents discover more about what the city and the region have to offer as well as inviting visitors to come and explore what he describes as “Real England” – the beautiful countryside, lovely stone villages, ancient market towns and churches linked to the history of England.

“Peterborough is ringed by a halo of stately homes and period properties amid quality environmental sites, all easily accessible both for the visitor and for people who live here - think John Clare Country, cycling and walking trails, the River Nene, amazing Bronze Age finds and magnificent Burghley House.”

‘Heritage city’, ‘green city’ and ‘events city’ are headline contents in the new destination Handbook, which also features sports facilities, family activities, shopping, food and drink and where to stay. While highlight events for each month of 2014 are listed in the printed guide, the rebranded visitpeterborough website will be constantly updated to list all events, big and small, within a 15-mile radius of the city.

This month (March) sees the promotion go national as part of VisitEngland’s City Breaks 2014 campaign, together with the targeting of key media including newspapers and Time Out magazine.

“This is a city, and region, that offers an attractive and quality visitor experience,” says Douglas Gyte. “Marketing and promotion is an integral part of the strategic development programme that will result in a higher profile for Peterborough.” www.visitpeterborough.com

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ACTIVITIES

Booked for Oundle Famous authors are in town this month for a week of talks and events for children and adults. Sue Dobson reveals the line-up

T

in each category are invited to the final event he Oundle Festival of Literature focuses of the week and will receive their certificates on young readers this month with the from Mo O’Hara, who will be at the Great Hall ever-popular Kid Lit programme offering an in Oundle School in an event that’s open to appealing line-up of authors and illustrators, everyone (tickets £4 from Oundle Box Office, each one invited for their ability to engage and see below). inspire children. It’s the only Literature Festival Author of My Big Fat Zombie Goldfish, which in Britain to organise author events especially featured on the New York Times bestseller list, for schools and groups from Corby, Stamford American-born Mo O’Hara is an actress and and Peterborough will be joining schools local storyteller who regularly performs at Edinburgh to Oundle for five days of events that include and London comedy festivals. Her talks and workshops.

Zombie Goldfish books featuring a Each event is tailored to the age mad scientist, an evil brother, a slightly of its audience. Illustrator and author undead zombie goldfish with hypnotic Stephen Waterhouse is recommended powers and a huge helping of humour, for Reception/Year 1. Using bright, bold Joanna Trollope are a big hit with boys. The third in the colours to create his characters, his series, Fins of Fury, was published in pictures appear in books, on posters, January. cards, maps and jigsaws and he has written and illustrated his own series of Stephen Waterhouse Authors for adults books about the adventures of a family The Oundle Festival of Literature runs of penguins. all year, featuring one or two author events Emily Gravett’s wonderfully witty drawings every month. The two unmissable speakers in won’t fail to enthuse Years 1 and 2. Multi-award March are Felicity Aston and Joanna Trollope, winning Emily, whose first published book who will be talking about her career and Wolves gained her the Kate Greenaway Medal latest novel, the recently published Balancing in 2005 (she won it again in 2008 with Little Act. Last year Joanna wrote a contemporary Mouse’s Big Book of Fears) has a new book reworking of Jane Austen’s Sense and out this month, the first story in a new series Sensibility, part of the Austen project pairing featuring Bear and Hare. six contemporary writers with Jane Children love to read Shoo Felicity Aston Austen’s six completed novels.

Rayner’s pacey, funny and Only three people in the world thoughtful stories and his wonderful have crossed Antarctica alone. The retellings of Rudyard Kipling’s Just first two were Norwegian men.

So Stories. Recommended for Years Felicity Aston is the first and only 2 and 3, he has written more than woman in the world to ski across 170 books and illustrated another Antarctica alone, a 1744km, 59-day 70 for authors such as Michael Shoo Rayner journey that also made her the Morpurgo, Michael Rosen and first person to do so without the Rose Impey. Having battled with aid of kites or machines. When she arrives dyslexia himself, Shoo is particularly keen on Elen Caldecott in Oundle to talk about her book, writing series books that struggling and newly Emily Gravett Alone in Antarctica, she’ll only independent readers devour and loves to just have returned from encourage young people to pick up a leading the three-month, pencil and draw.

Tommy Donbavand 30,000km Pole of the Author, playwright, actor and Cold Expedition. Don’t pantomime veteran, Tommy miss her!

Donbavand’s 13-book Scream Street series for seven to ten year olds • Kid Lit runs from and the Fangs: Vampire Spy series 10th-15th March. St of comedy horrors are popular with Peter’s Church, Oundle readers. His Oundle event promises is the venue for Joanna to be fun-filled for Years 3 and 4.

Trollope on 13th March Elen Caldecott’s favourite kinds and Felicity Aston on 15th. of stories are ones where ordinary people do Both events start at 7.30pm. quite extraordinary things. She sets out to write Tickets (£7/£5) are available real life but with the promise of adventure and from the Oundle Box Office, 4 her ingenious, warm-hearted books are fun New Street, Oundle PE8 4ED; Tel and serious at the same time. She’s perfect for 01832 274734, Monday to Friday Years 5 and 6.

10am–1pm; and online at www.

A poetry and prose writing competition runs oundlefestival.org.uk. The Oundle alongside Kid Lit. Open to children who live Festival of Literature’s website is or go to school within 30 miles of Oundle, it Mo O’Hara attracts hundreds of entries every year. Winners www.oundlelitfest.org.uk NENE VALLEY LIVING MARCH 2014

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D IA RY DAT E S

MARCH 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 29 30

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 SATURDAY SUNDAY

Friday 14 March 6- 9.30pm - Gilson Lavis at Norman Cross Art Gallery, Exquisite monochromic portraits of friends and the famous executed by Gilson Larvis - better known as the drummer in Jools Hollands’ Rhythm and Blues Orchestra!

Norman Cross Gallery, Norman Cross, Peterborough, PE7 3TB. 01733245189. contact@norm ancrossgallery.com. www.normancrossgallery.com

What’s On Yasmin Bradley selects the best events in March

Sunday 2 March Pancake Day at Sacrewell 9.30am – 5pm Collect your ingredients, flip ready-made pancakes and then tuck into fresh ones in the café! Yum! £6.25 (£4.70). Family: £19.35. Sacrewell Farm, Thornhaugh, PE8 6HJ. 01780 782254. www.sacrewell. org.uk Wednesday 5 March 7.30 pm George Szirtes: Writers in Peterborough Born in Budapest and brought up in Britain as a child refugee, this “truly breathtaking” poet is coming to Peterborough! £7 (£5). The Quality Hotel, Thorpe Meadows, PE3 6GA. www.wip.btik.com. 01778 342766.

Thursday 6 March Edmund Blunden’s War 10am - 12 noon A unique opportunity to hear Margi Blunden talk about the life and work of her father, Edmund Blunden, First World War Poet and first editor of John Clare’s published poems. £10. John Clare Cottage, Woodgate, Helpston, Peterborough, PE6 7ED. 01733 253330 Sunday 16 March - Basket-making Workshop 10am-5pm.

Make small stake and strand baskets using willow and traditional techniques. £60. Peterborough Museum, Priestgate, Peterborough, PE1 1LF. 01733 864 663. museum@vivacity-peterborough.com. www.vivacity-peterborough.com/tryheritage Tuesday 18 March Gesture Closing Event 11.30am-5.00pm A last look at the Gesture project: film screenings, live performance, photographic workshops and Litzler’s photographic installation, Quadrature.

Free. The Cube, George Street, Corby, NN17 1QG. www.fermynwoods.co.uk/current-programme/ workshopstalksevents/gesture-closing-event/ 01832 733009.

Wednesday 19 March - 7 – 8.30pm Belly Dancing Workshop And now for something completely different … belly dancing led by local dancer and Glapthorn School mum, Sabine Croxford! £5. Glapthorne Primary School, Benefield Rd, Oundle, PE8 5BQ. 01832 273452 Saturday 22 March - The Frog and the Princess 11.30am /1.30pm A poignant re-telling of the Brothers’ Grimm tale by the Norwich Puppet Theatre: the Frog and the Princess discover they are not so different after all… £8 (£6.50). Key Theatre, Embankment Road,

Saturday 8 March - Sunday 27 April Lambing at Sacrewell 9.30 – 5pm Welcome the spring with loads of lovely lambs! £6.25 (£4.70). Family: £19.35. Sacrewell Farm, Thornhaugh, PE8 6HJ. 01780 782254. www.sacrewell.org.uk

Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacitypeterborough.com/event/the-frog-and-the-princess.

Monday 24 March Romans Revisited Lecture: Pompeii and Herculaneum at the British Museum 7.30pm British Museum’s Head of Roman collections, Paul Roberts recounts how over 400 objects buried in Mount Vesuvius’ catastrophic eruption were brought together in 2013. (£8, £5) John Clare Theatre, Central Library, Broadway, Peterborough, 01733 864 663. museum@vivacity-peterborough.com. www.vivacity-peterborough.com/tryheritage Tuesday 25 – Saturday 29 March 2014.

Westwood Musical Society presents Sweet Charity 7.30pm (2.30pm matinee Tuesday/Saturday) Sparkling dance routines and iconic songs transport you back to the heady 60s! £15 (£12.50) Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com/event/sweet-charity Wednesday 26 March Anna Hope – World War One Novelist 7pm.

Hear the author talk about Wake, her powerful novel set against the journey home of the Unknown Soldier from the battlefields of Northern France. £5 (£4). John Clare Theatre, Central Library, 01733 864280. centrallibrary@vivacity-peterborough.com www.vivacity-peterborough.com

NENE VALLEY LIVING MARCH 2014

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Local Living2014 This year our annual publication is undergoing a complete revolution.

Join us in the revolution!!

• A name change from Essential Living to Local Living • A huge focus on ‘Buying Local’ – we have so much in this region • A town by town focus – a guide to help us all get the most out of our glorious towns • Still higher production values – ultra-glossy • Vastly increased distribution – 15,000 copies

Who will read it?

• People who already live in the region, who want to explore more – helping them get to the ‘real finds’ – the hidden places, the great buys and the amazing service providers • Visitors to the region and people who are thinking of re-locating - a celebration of ‘Britain’s Best Place to Live’

To advertise please call the team Advertising Director: Helen Walton Tel: 01780 754801 Email: helen.stamford@btopenworld.com Stamford: Claudia Bayley Tel: 01780 480409 Email: claudia.bayley@btinternet.com Nene Valley: Bridget Steele Tel: 01733 707538 Email: bridget.neneliving@ntlworld.com Rutland: Tracy Watkinson Tel: 01572 813187 Email: rutlandliving@btinternet.com Market Harborough: Sosennah Every Tel: 07884 124316 Email: sos.every@gmail.com

I PLEDGE to Shop SMALL Spend LOCAL Eat LOCAL Enjoy LOCAL

& support the local businesses that support me & my community

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HEALTH

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• Professional Aga specialist • Legitimate Aga spare parts for regular servicing and maintenance • Over 12 years experience Call: 07735 304452 or 0116 2813219 Email: martinsagaservice@hotmail.co.uk www.aga-servicing-leicestershire.co.uk

HOME VISITS FOR:* Removal of Corns and Calluses * Ingrowning Toenails * Toenails clipped * Fungal Nail Treatments * Specialising in the Diabetic and Neurovascular patient * competitive rates Telephone 07931 624325 email: hollywright18@yahoo.co.uk

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

THE LAMPSHADE WAREHOUSE LIGHTING OUTLET Est.1986

The Largest Independent Lighting Showroom in Cambridgeshire

Opening Hours - Tues-Fri 9-5 Sat 9-4 The Lampshade Warehouse 10 Saville Road, Westwood, Peterborough, PE3 7PR

0 1 7 3 3 2 6 4 3 9 1 - w w w. t h e l a m p s h a d e w a r e h o u s e . c o . u k

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A 17th Century Hotel with a 21st Century Twist

Steeped in hundreds of years of history, this delightful coaching inn offers something for everyone – enjoy family friendly meals in our light filled Garden Room, a quiet business lunch in the Oak Room, or perhaps morning coffee or a sumptuous afternoon tea in our wonderful Sun Room.

• Delicious award winning food, real ales and a selection of fine wines • Traditional bar with roaring log fires • Private dining • Stylish accommodation • Fully licensed wedding venue • Meeting rooms with conference facilities

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

We look forward to welcoming you soon!

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