Nene Valley Living September 2011

HELPING

YOU

TO

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MOST

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LIVING

LOCALLY

NENE VALLEY Living

HEDGEROW HARVEST Forage for a feast LIVING IN COLOUR Interior inspirations BARGAIN HUNT Out and about at an antiques fair

£1.50 September 2011

www.bestlocalliving.co.uk 09

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We have now opened our latest Antique Centre at 1c West Street, Helpston, PE6 7DU Valuation Days held every Wednesday Antiques Bought and Sold Free Valuations Restoration Work Undertaken Gold & Silver Bought – Best Prices Given Please call to speak to one of our experts

07917 458569 01778 348865

or email stuy.antiques@gmail.com

Valuations Given

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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

@LocalLivingUK

r e b m e t p e S e u s s i This

Cover shot:

Local produce by Dave Phillips

5 Editor’s selection

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ife without hobbies would be a dull place, but not only that, people who actively pursue their interests are far less likely to become depressed, according to a number of recent studies. Singing is one pastime that bestows all kinds of benefits on participants, and even knitting has been found to have a therapeutic effect on those who like to knit and purl from time to time. I know that these sorts of surveys can be annoying, as they are often little more than a lesson in stating the blindingly obvious, but it’s uplifting to hear that enjoying yourself is actively good for you. I went along to the Handmade in Peterborough gathering this month, and met a lovely and very diverse group of women who have a regular Monday night slot where they take their crafts projects along to the Brewery Tap in Peterborough and crochet, stitch, knit and chat over a few drinks. Nobody batted an eyelid as they unpacked their yarn, patchwork and crochet and set to work. Read more about them on page 20 in Emily Bull’s first report for us.

Next month we’ll be reporting on some of the area’s popular community choirs, which are going from strength to strength and bringing great pleasure to both participants and audiences.

How great to hear so much positive community news, given the madness that gripped the country during August.

And on another happy note, I’d also like to congratulate regular NVL photographer and valued team member Lesley Anne Churchill and her partner Stuart, who have just had a beautiful baby boy called Freddie.

Enjoy your month.

Fion a Cu mberpatch Editor SUBSCRIBE TO Nene Valley Living

Back to school and college in style

6 Upfront

A guitar craftsman in Oundle

9 Upfront

Butterflies Cupcake House

12 THE GREAT ANTIQUES HUNT

10 Upfront

A village pub reopens

12 The great antiques hunt

Out and about at an antiques and collectors weekend

15 Food news

The Red Lion reviewed, and artisan bread

17 Foraging for fungi Collect delicious mushrooms

19 A legacy that changes lives 20 THE CRAFTS REVOLUTION

Good work from a local charity

20 The crafts revolution How handmade went hip

22 Health and Beauty Notes New dentist practice in Cathedral Square

25 Living in colour 25 LIVING IN COLOUR 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

Bright looks for your home

29 Woodland Walk Short Wood, Southwick

30 The truth about care home fees Practical advice

33 Golf Club goes green Installing solar panels

35 Family adventures Canoeing and cycling

37 Diary dates

The pick of this month’s events

35 FAMILY ADVENTURES

For £20 (£30 for overseas’ surface mail) 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

NENE VALLEY LIVING September 2011

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MARSHALL VOLVO OUTSTANDING SERVICE AS STANDARD. Our highly trained and skilled team looks forward to welcoming you to our state of the art dealership, where we will be on hand to look after your every need.

All our cars are handled with the utmost care and attention as we pride ourselves on offering the best deals on the latest range of New Volvo and piece of mind on quality approved used vehicles.

From the new Volvo range, to Approved used vehicles right through to service and repairs, visit Marshall Volvo and expect nothing less than a first class service as standard.

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Volvo. For life.

MARSHALL VOLVO PETERBOROUGH 7 MALLORY ROAD, BOONGATE, PETERBOROUGH PE1 5AU. TEL: 0844 411 9751 www.marshallweb.co.uk/volvo MARSHALL MOTOR GROUP LTD. REGISTERED OFFICE:- AIRPORT HOUSE, THE AIRPORT, CAMBRIDGE CB5 8RY. ALL CALLS MAY BE RECORDED FOR TRAINING AND QUALITY PURPOSES.

THIS IS MARSHALL JAGUAR

Situated in Peterborough, our dealership is equipped to deal with all your Jaguar needs.

From the exciting new Jaguar range featuring groundbreaking technology and industry firsts, to Approved used vehicles maintained to the standards set by the engineers who built them.

Enjoy all the expertise and knowledge of our Jaguar Academy trained technicians and with a range of exhilarating accessories to enhance the feeling of owning a Jaguar, make sure that you visit Marshall Jaguar Peterborough.

MARSHALL JAGUAR PETERBOROUGH 7 Mallory Road, Boongate, Peterborough PE1 5AU 0844 334 0635 www.marshall.peterborough.jaguar.co.uk

SCAN WITH YOUR QR READER APP TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE

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Editor’s selection Things to read, buy and see this month

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Sock monkey dinner money purse, £3.99, Jitterbug Toys (online only) http://www. jitterbugtoys.co.uk/

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Apple mouse mat, £5, John Lewis, Queensgate Centre, Peterborough

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For stylish students: handmade Rosehip notebooks, £8.50 each, Oundle Emporium, online only http://www. theemporiumoundle.com/

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A student essential: toaster, £21, John Lewis, Queensgate Centre, Peterborough

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New term, new menus? Pure Style: Recipes for Everyday

by Jane Cumberbatch, Pavilion, £25. Order from Oundle Bookshop Tel: 01832 273523

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Messenger bag, from £10£15 depending on size, handmade in Peterborough by CherryCherry bags.

Contact Claire Carter on claire.white19@ btinternet.com to order

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College chic: tweed jacket, £159.95, Jacks, 20 Market Place, Oundle.

Tel: 01832 270033

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Insulated lunch bag, £3.99, Jitterbug Toys, (as above)

NENE VALLEY LIVING September 2011

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LOCAL NEWS

Upfront front What’s new this month

Guitar craftsman in Oundle

Matthew Gleeson is a luthier – a maker of stringed instruments - and he has just opened for business in Oundle. With impressive credentials, including work for numerous professional musicians including David Gilmour, Pete Townsend, Chris Rea, Elvis Costello, Pat Metheny, Jon Bon Jovi and Paul McCartney, Matthew has just relocated to the area from London. “I have experience dealing with every kind of guitar repair from a simple set up, to complete custom built guitars with more onboard effects than you could shake a stick at,” says Matthew. “Most things are repairable. I’ve dealt with guitars that have been in warehouse floods, literally beaten on stage, and also guitars that have unfortunately been involved in some nasty break ups.

All of which have come out the other side as good as new.” Matthew also plans to start manufacturing his own guitar parts and full custom guitars soon. He is keen to emphasise that he is as committed to working on guitars for amateurs as professionals. A musician himself, he is currently in two bands, but he diverted into the mechanics of guitar repair after his own instruments continually broke and required maintenance while he was at music college. Seizing the initiative, Matthew talked himself into an apprenticeship with the renowned Charlie Chandler in Kew, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Spotlight on South Africa With the summer fading out, and winter ahead, why not plan your next holiday and head for South Africa for a spot of sunshine?

With only a two hour time difference, South Africa is a perfect sunshine destination during the British winter - with the best weather from November through to March.

South Africa offers exciting cities, outstanding game viewing, superb hotels and lodges and breathtaking scenery. A popular combination for a shorter break is to spend four nights in Cape Town - choose from the Victoria & Alfred Hotel, or the newly opened One & Only, the city’s newest luxury resort - combined with a stay in the Winelands. Add in a day safari to The Aquila Game Reserve, which is less than two hours from Cape Town, and home to four of the big five! Then spend four or five nights in Stellenbosch or Franschhoek in the centre of South Africa’s premium wine growing region. The fabulous Mont Rochelle Hotel is simply stunning and highly recommended by Oundle Travel. The favourable exchange rate makes South Africa an affordable winter holiday, where dining out is a well priced pleasure.

Travelling from Capetown via Oudtshoorn, the feather capital of the world (due to its huge ostrich industry), is one of the most beautiful drives in the world - The Garden Route. Visit the towns of Knysna and Tsitsikamma Forest before returning to Hermanus, home to some incredible whale watching sites. Why not end your trip by spending three to four nights in a game reserve, such as the Serengeti or Masai Mara? For an interesting beach combination, consider Zanzibar, Mozambique or Madagascar.

• Oundle Travel. Tel: 01832 273600 - http://www.oundletravel.co.uk/

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Autumn country market Easton Walled Gardens, a short drive north along the A1, is hosting a seasonal country market on September 11th. There will be lots of plants on sale, as well as gifts, food and vintage items. Ceramic painting is just one of the activities on offer for children, not to mention 12 acres of beautiful grounds to explore. TV gardener Laetitia Maklouf will be there to answer questions as part of an expert panel.

• Open 11am-4pm. Adults £5.75. Contact Easton Walled Gardens on 01476 530063 or visit http://eastonwalledgardens.co.uk/

Art on display Four of Peterborough’s best known artists have come together to create an exhibition called Elemental at the Andronicas café in Peterborough Garden Park. Running until September 20th, the show includes 25 land and seascape paintings by Garth Bayley, Prue Pye, Rene Viner and Wendy Dominguez. René Viner, curator and originator of the exhibition says: “we have such a thriving local artistic community but very few suitable spaces in which to show our work. When Andronicas Café approached us with the great idea to use their upstairs space, we jumped at it.”

All the artists have taken the elements – air, water, earth and fire – as their inspiration.

NENE VALLEY LIVING September 2011

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In Style by InWear!

Introducing this seasons new labels at Jacks....

Live Music Fri 30 September and Fri 2 December

New Autumn Menu Open from 12 Tues-Sat for Lunch/Dinner & Sunday Lunch

The Bazaar, West Street Oundle, PE8 4EJ

01832 274730 www.chapeldiningroom.co.uk

• Esprit - one of Europe's major fashion collections • Ya Ya - for a total layered look • B.yu - soft, chunky knits from Italy • Eliane et Lena - French jersey wear with a twist • Creenstone - Stylish and luxurious coats

16 Church Street, 20 Market Place, Market Harborough Oundle Tel: 01858 431396 Tel: 01832 270033 7

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

FREE local collection & delivery!

FREE courtesy car available!

01733 333623

FREE ESSENTIALS GIFT PACK WHEN YOU BOOK A SERIVCE WITH THIS FLYER! Free gift available whilst stocks last!

www.owenbrownautos.co.uk Unit C, Peartree Business Centre Enterprise Way Off Bretton Way Bretton Peterborough

Don’t break down, call Owen Brown!

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

Tel: 01733 772934

Email: ridgewaygaragedoors@ fsmail.net

We pride ourselves on great customer service

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LOCAL NEWS

Upfront Nene Valley People Five minutes with Laura Calvin, co-owner of Butterflies Cupcake House, Peterborough Describe your business We design and make cupcakes and celebration cakes for birthdays, parties, anniversaries and weddings. My mum makes the cakes, while I am responsible for all the sales and marketing.

It’s a personalised service: you come in for a consultation and we’ll do everything we can to make sure you have the best cake possible for your event.

When did you set up?

2010. We tested the waters with a stand in the Grafton Centre, Cambridge, just to see if people were interested, and they were, so we decided to go for it. We now have a showroom, office and kitchen in Fengate, Peterborough.

Did you have previous experience?

My mum is a trained chef and has been making cakes for over 30 years. I was previously the commercial manager of BHS in Peterborough, so I have a background in sales and marketing.

Do you have any employees?

At the moment, it’s just us, a mother and daughter team who have decided to turn our love for making delicious and fantastic looking cakes into a business.

Most popular product?

Our Rocky Road cupcake, with double

chocolate, and a marshmallow and biscuit topping.

Where do you live?

Peterborough Best place for eating out locally?

The Taj Mahal in Lincoln Road, Peterborough.

Not only for its wonderful food, the service is also fantastic.

Favourite shopping destination?

For a day out, it has to be Cambridge Best thing about living in this area?

I love Peterborough Cathedral and the fact

Ask the Expert I’d like to set up my own small business.

What steps do I need to take?

Kerry Hilliard of accountancy firm Stephenson Smart replies: Decide what sort of business structure you will be using. Common types are sole trader, partnership, limited company or LLP. The appropriate structure will depend upon many different factors, including tax considerations and attitudes to personal liability.

Prepare a business plan.

A good business plan is key to success and is invaluable in structuring your ideas.

If your business requires funding, then a plan will help investors and lenders understand your business and your intentions for its future development.

Consider where you will work from and whether you’ll need to employ any staff. You may be able to

work from home if you require a small office space, or opt to rent or buy dedicated business premises. If you are an employer then you have a responsibility to deduct income tax and National Insurance and account for it to HM Revenue and Customs. You will also need to ensure that you comply with employment law.

Accounting records for your business must be kept and reported to HMRC. If a company is formed, there are legal requirements as to the layout of the accounts and you may need to have an audit. You have three months to notify HMRC that you have started in business and you could face a penalty if you do not notify them in time. You may also need to register for VAT. You’ll be obliged to register if your taxable sales or services exceed the registration limit.

For more information and help, contact Stephenson Smart & Co. Telephone: 01733 343275 http//www. stephensonsmart. com

that it’s right in the town centre. I always take visitors there. Plus, it’s only a few miles drive to lovely countryside, good pubs and varied scenery.

• Butterflies Cupcake House, 9/10 Fenlake Business Centre, Fengate, Peterborough PE1 5BQ. Tel: 07825 347441 email: butterfliescupcakehouse@gmail.com http://www.butterfliescupcakes.com/ Open 10am-5pm. Closed Thursdays and Sundays.

Sacrewell’s watermill memories Have you taken part in Sacrewell Farm’s breadmaking workshops, discovery trails or ghost hunts in the 18th century working watermill?

Did you visit the historic building when you were a child? If so, the organisers would love to see your photos or drawings and hear your memories. Send your letters and pictures to Mill Memories, Sacrewell Farm and Country Centre, Thornaugh, Peterborough PE8 6HJ or email info@ sacrewell.org.uk. If you’d like to visit the Mill House and watermill, Sacrewell Farm and Country Centre is open seven days a week.

Admission charges apply.

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LOCAL NEWS

Upfront The wonder of watercolours

This September over 40 recent paintings by watercolour artist Michael Aubrey will be on show at The Old Hind Gallery in Oundle. The gallery, converted from the 16th century stables in what was once Oundle’s drovers’ inn leads off West Street, and is approached through a beautiful walled garden. The paintings include a wide range of subjects, from still lifes to landscapes. There will also be a number of oil paintings on display, as Michael has recently returned to his earlier love of oils.

• The Old Hind Gallery, 34 West St, Oundle.

Open 10am-6pm, Friday, Saturday and Sunday through September. Free admission.

For information, telephone 01832 272492 or visit http://michaelaubrey.co.uk/

Refresh your home

It’s amazing what a big difference new curtains, blinds or soft furnishings can make to your house.

Kay Elizabeth Interiors provides a full design, make up and fitting service on curtains, blinds, pelmets, cushions and lampshades. Owner Kay Jones has trained extensively over the years, and has a diploma from the Cambridge Fine Furnishing Course.

“I enjoy bespoke projects and no task is ever unachievable, even though fabric doesn’t always behave as it should,” she explains. “I am a perfectionist and I aim to give my clients exactly what they require.” Kay’s previous projects include everything from small homes to manor houses and shop window displays.

• Call 07958 559525 or email kayelizabeth@googlemail.com

Singers wanted Singing with others has numerous health and wellbeing benefits, according to recent research, and the Nene valley area has many groups to suit different styles. Peterborough’s four part Male Barbershop Chorus has been established for 20 years, and has appeared at the Peterborough Festival, as well as some national events. It’s now looking to expand its 30 strong membership, and is running a free five week learn to sing course starting on Thursday September 15th at the Orton Wistow Community Centre, 7.30pm-10pm.

• There are no age restrictions, so if you’d like to give it a go, or just find out more, call Alan Lund on 01733 260645 or Brian McDonnell on 0774 0987127.

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Evensong in St Peter’s, Deene On Sunday September 25th at 4pm, there will be a choral evensong for Harvest Festival at St Peter’s Church in Deene, just off the A43 between Stamford and Corby. The service will be lead by Canon Donald Gray CBE and music will be provided by the Northampton Bach Chorale.

Parking is at nearby Deene Park.

St Peter’s Church is thought to date back to the 13th century or possibly earlier, and was greatly rebuilt by TH Wyatt in 1868-69 under the direction of Adeline, wife of the 7th Earl of Cardigan who lead the Charge of the Light Brigade in 1854. St Peter’s is now in the care of The Churches Conservation Trust.

• For further information, contact the Administrator of Deene Park on 01780 450278 or email admin@deenepark.com

Mark Elliot in Stamford Mark Elliott Furniture, under new ownership, has now relocated to premises at the east end of Bath Row, opposite Adnams. It is much larger than its previous home, allowing much more furniture to be displayed. Downstairs are sofas, chairs and tables, while upstairs there is a large selection of beds and bedroom furniture. All the furniture you see is 100 per cent British, and can be finished exactly to your specifications (size and material).

• Mark Elliot Furniture, Bath Row, Stamford, PE9 2HG Tel: 01780 766284 http://www.markelliot.co.uk/

Kings Head, Apethorpe, reopens It’s an idyllic country pub which many people have missed during its brief period of closure, but now the Kings Head Apethorpe is open for business again, managed by new leaseholders Simon Forbes and Charlotte Bussey. The young couple will be offering traditional English home cooked food and all day Sunday lunches, and recreating the friendly, relaxed atmosphere for which the establishment was known previously.

“Simon has lived in the village for six years and it was the first pub he worked at,” explains Charlotte. “He always said that he’d like to run it, and now we have the chance. It’s very exciting.”

• For opening hours, events and up to date information, visit http://www.kingsheadapethorpe.co.uk or call 01780 470627

NENE VALLEY LIVING September 2011

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ACTIVITIES

The great antiques hunt The fashion for vintage and antiques items for the home shows no sign of slowing down, as we found recently at the busy Antiques Fair and Collectors Weekend at Grimsthorpe Castle, near Bourne.

Words and photographs: Fiona Cumberpatch

A

ntiques shopping for the home is a complete pleasure when it takes place on a sunny morning in the grounds of the splendid Grimsthorpe Castle, near Bourne. It’s worth getting up a little earlier than usual to trawl around 150 stalls selling everything from garden statuary to vintage textiles, glassware and old signs. It’s best not to come with a fixed shopping list – you’ll invariably end up falling in love with something you never knew you wanted! We spent several enjoyable hours wandering around, accompanied by the nostalgic sound of a scratchy ’78 jazz record, courtesy of a wind up record player on one of the stalls.

makes a tes to 1541, , which da tle is run as C ch e hi w rp Grimstho r the event, fo g in tt se spectacular og Fairs

by Field D

sources collectables that she asures, curios and tre e e in tag ntr vin Ce s es sell tiqu Helen Storey at Notions An . “We have a stand than antiques, her rat s with partner, Gordon item e vintag is the focus is more on says. “My partner Grantham, and our to the 1960s,” she 0s 192 the m .” fro tins old so that’s things I like kitchenalia and toy person, whereas

Tracey Mathieson, florist, gardener and owner of the Foxtail Lilly shop in South Road, Oundle, came across this huge vintage suitcase.

Claire W a friend fo

Wes Antiques and Collectables from Ho rncastle specialise in French and Contin ental collectables. Th e owners’ overnight accommodation cam e in the shape of this tiny Dutch carava n.

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12 13 GRIMSTHORPE.indd 2

with owner rles spaniel, takes a rest k Russell, half King Cha stock pin. gold at car nine Harry the dog, half Jac purchase: a ford, who had made one ns. “It’s our first time lejoh Litt Sara Challiner, from Slea e eeni Qu and with her parents Godfrey a.

She was visiting the fair santly surprised,” says Sar here and we’re very plea easily.” nd arou get can you “It’s a beautiful setting and

18/8/11 15:21:52

Sharon was Lincoln dealer A sturdy tin trunk y. da the Garner’s find of

akes a run

Claire W illiams from Peterboro a friend. ugh was “I’m not a antique-in serious col g with for vintag lector, I ju e pieces fo st like look r the hom ing e,” she sa ys.

ric and china are Vintage shoes, dresses, fab Maureen’s stall. ler dea at ay inst ma the

bought e had I’m sh d n toy. “ sing, a ’s brow ickey Mouse y a about d ying a old M now thinking ys. jo n n a e s d I’m s an e wa she sa basket chases and artlidg rden,” Liz C wo vintage pur the ga r y o t f m tub these with leased c bath very p old zin n a g buyin

NVL edito r Fiona C mid-centu umberpatc ry moder h found n fabric this length I usually

by Heal’s. of buy, but “It’s not th I’ll find a e kind of use for it thing somewhere ,” she say s. k, wor and tiring y st ir th nds is ing trade. ugh the fi ing a roar Sifting thro all was do st ee ff co and this

Rusty Rails is the name of Da vid Broughton’s memorabilia. He business, specialisi has a selection ng in transport of lamps, signs, paperwork, watc notices, signallin hes, whistles, too g equipment, tic ls and uniform Retford and Do kets, .

He ncaster, and wi has weekly stalls ll be present at at Newark, the next antique Meadows in Se s fair on Stam ptember (see bo ford x for details).

Field Dog Fairs is running another antiques and collectors weekend on Stamford Meadows, Stamford, on September 23rd, 24th and 25th.

Admission £3.50 adults (£3 concessions), accompanied children free. For further information, visit www.fielddogfairs. co.uk or telephone 01780 410286 or 07889097400

NENE VALLEY LIVING September 2011

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Warmington Tel: 01832 280362 A Great Country Pub • Real Home Produced Food • Homemade Desserts • Quality Real Ales • Candles, Fresh Flowers & Linen Napkins Lunchtime Specials from £8.95 Tue – Sat

Early Doors Buy ONE meal & get another HALF PRICE

Free Marquee Hir e Conditions apply

T h E F i n EST E n g l i S h C u i S i n E AT

THE RED LION

The

Cherry house Restaurant

“ The difference is in the detail...”

Reservations Essential

• For Superb Food & Excellent Service in Delightful Surroundings • We offer fortnightly changed, fixed price menu • For all occasions inc birthday & anniversary celebrations, intimate weddings, wakes...

01733 571721 125 Church Street Werrington Peterborough, PE4 6QF www.cherryhouserestaurant.co.uk

Tue – Fri (table clear by 8pm if required)

A La Carte from 7pm Tue – Sat The Famous Red Lion Sunday Lunch Serving 12 noon and 2.30 (booking essential)

king Now ta s for g in book as Christm

Closed Mondays

4 star Gold Award

Simon & Charlotte are delighted to announce that The Kings Head, Apethorpe, is back!

With help from Steve and Julia Wells and the whole village of Apethorpe, we are proud to be reopening, better than ever.

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FOOD & DRINK

Food news All the latest on local food and drink

Win a stay at The Crown Inn, Elton Diners who review The Crown Inn Elton online could be rewarded with a free stay and a three course dinner for two. The initiative comes as part of the pub’s new interactive website. Customers are asked to rank their experiences, and once every three months, a lucky winner will be drawn.

Chef owner Marcus Lamb says: “customer feedback is really important to us.”

The Crown Inn. Tel: 01832 280232 http://www.thecrowninn.org

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NENE VALLEY LIVING

RECOMMENDS

e visited this village pub on a Saturday evening: as on previous visits, it felt welcoming and friendly with a buzz of chatter. We sat in the bar enjoying pre-dinner drinks and looking over the menu. Food can be eaten in the separate bar or the cosy antique filled restaurant next door.

Moving into the restaurant to eat, we tucked into our excellent starters: grilled goats cheese on a toasted crouton with a side salad and plenty of extra bread hit the spot. The cheese had just the right tang and came with a tasty chutney to compliment. The chilli prawns were large and succulent with plenty of flavour without too much heat.

I enjoyed my fillet of sea bass served with a prawn and dill sauce, new potatoes and seasonal vegetables. Mel chose the lamb shank, slow roasted in red wine and served with minty new potatoes and vegetables – she said the meat was tender and tasty. The men went for the pork fillet cooked in a rich three mustard sauce. Everything was delicious, home cooked and served with a friendly flourish.

Only Tim could manage a dessert and he chose the home made treacle tart and custard. I had tried this on a previous visit and knew it would be a melt-in-your mouth moreish pudding - as it certainly was.

The Red Lion serves comfort food at its best and moves seamlessly from its loyal lunch time crowd of local groups, walkers and retired In a nutshell: Home made comfort food at its best, in comfortable friends enjoying the surroundings. popular Red Lion roasts Food served: Tuesday to Saturday lunch times one course £8.95, served from Tuesdays two courses £10.95. Early doors Tuesday to Saturday 6-7pm, buy to Saturday lunch one get one meal half price. À La Carte evening menu. times to an À La Carte Open Tuesday to Saturday menu in the evening Typical price for two in the evening: £50 with wine. that has something for Red Lion, Peterborough Road, Warmington, Peterborough, PE8 6TN everyone.

Tel: 01832 280362 Bridget Steele

• The Red Lion, Warmington •

A better bit of bread William Cecil opens When Filam Smallridge moved from California to the Nene valley region, she missed two things: Thai takeaways and excellent bread. She solved the second problem by baking her own loaves, and the results were so successful that she has now started a small business. The Small Bread Company supplies Nassington Stores with artisan bread on Fridays and Saturdays, and Filam also bakes special orders, including organic scones and burger buns. “Real bread has four main ingredients: flour, yeast, salt and water,” she explains. “I buy my flour from Whissendine Mill in Rutland and I make the loaves in my own kitchen.”

Her bestseller is a wholewheat seeded loaf. Research shows that artisan bread is richer in nutrients than mass produced loaves, and it is better tolerated by people who have a sensitivity to wheat. And above all: “it just tastes better,” says Filam.

Tel: 01832 205540 Email: thesmallbreadcompany@yahoo.co.uk The Small Bread Company is also on Facebook

8

NENE VALLEY LIVING July 2008

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The William Cecil Hotel in Stamford (formerly the Lady Anne’s) has reopened in all its refurbished glory. The hotel has been transformed by reorienting the downstairs space. Now there are two restaurants at the back of the building to make the most of the garden area, and a door straight into the street to attract non-residents. Perfect for a late summer’s drink outside.

The William Cecil, St Martin’s, Stamford PE9 2LJ Tel: 01780 750070 http:// thewilliamcecil.co.uk/

NENE VALLEY LIVING September 2011

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Food & drink

Foraging for fungi Edible: fairy ring champignons

September is the prime month for gathering edible fungi, but Dave Phillips has some words of advice for would-be foragers

S

eptember is the time when many of us succumb to that hunter-gatherer instinct and go foraging or food in the countryside. It’s when you’ll find families gathering wild blackberries for jams and puddings, or sloes and elderberries for more alcoholic tipples.

Fewer go mushroom hunting, which is a surprise considering what a good area this is for gathering fungi. The grassy meadows of the Nene valley provide rich pickings for the mushroom hunter, while the woods offer a harvest of fine fungi. But what puts most folk off is, of course, the fact that the mushroom’s close cousin – the toadstool – is often deadly poisonous.

An expert on fungi was once asked what was the difference between a toadstool and a mushroom. He replied: “A toadstool has a cap and a stem and you can’t eat it; a mushroom has a cap and a stem and you can.” It means you have to be very, very careful about what you pick.

Edible: field blewits in frost Poisonous Webcap

Poisonous: The Sickener

Edible: Scaly wood mushroom

Edible: Shaggy inkcaps

16

Handle with care Never eat any mushroom until you are 100 per cent certain of its identity. If you’re going foraging you’ll need a good identification book, like the Collins field guides to mushrooms and toadstools. Even better is the bible of fungi gathering, Mushrooms by Roger Phillips.

The latter is a big book of almost 400 pages - too large to lug around the countryside, but good to have at home for reference before you commit your foraged fungi to the frying pan.

There are well over 2,000 species of mushrooms and toadstools in Britain. Of these, several are delicious, many are edible but bland, many more are inedible because they taste horrible, a lot are mildly poisonous and will causes stomach upsets… and a few will kill you.

But don’t let that dire warning put you off. Some of the best mushrooms are easy to identify – like field and horse mushrooms, which are found in unimproved grassy meadows – especially those fields grazed by animals. But do avoid the similar-looking yellow stainer mushroom, which smells like antispectic and, as its name suggests, discolours to a metallic yellow when cut with a sharp knife. It tastes unpleasant and can cause gastric upsets.

In the woods, the scaly wood mushroom is a real treat. It is quite common locally, often growing in rings around the base of oak trees in September and October. Like most mushrooms, it tends to die off after the first frosts of winter, but nearby you’ll often find groups of wood blewits – beautiful, blue/violet-tinted mushrooms that will often survive through to Christmas (unless we get severe early winter weather). Their close relatives, the field blewits, are fairly common in this area, where local folk call them “blue legs” on account of their blueish stems. They can’t be missed – they’re usually four to six inches across and grow in huge fairy rings on old pastures.

Also growing in fairy rings are the commonplace champignons, which are a delicious addition to any risotto, soup or pasta dish. But these lovely little mushrooms have tough stems, which need to be snipped off with scissors or nipped through with your thumbnail.

Fact or fiction?

It used to be thought that fairy rings were formed by fungi growing in the footsteps of fairies as they danced in circles in the moonlit meadows. Sadly, the truth is less magical.

All mushrooms and toadstools are the fruiting bodies of underground organisms – vast networks of microscopic threads that are neither plant nor animal get their nutrients by breaking down organic matter. As the underground fungus grows, it throws up its fruiting bodies around its perimeter.

You don’t have to escape to the woods or meadows to gather delicious mushrooms.

Ordinary verges and footpaths are where you’ll find shaggy inkcaps, delicious if you pick and eat them when they are very young and before their gills turn black and inky.

The biggest enemy of the mushroom gatherer is the mushroom fly, or, rather, its larvae – maggots. Always cut your pickings in half to look for the tell-tale burrows. But I can’t stress too often that the most dangerous bit is taking a chance and eating something you’re not sure of. For example, some good edible species have lookalikes that are poisonous. Avoid them, just in case...

Of course, you don’t have to eat what you find. With so many species of mushrooms and toadstools to discover, why not just go out to admire, and perhaps photograph, these wonders of the autumn countryside? After all, fungi should be fun.

Inedible: blackening waxcap Inedible: dryad’s saddle

Inedible: dung roundhead

Inedible: funnel cap

Inedible: milkcaps

Inedible: snakeskin grisette

NENE VALLEY LIVING September 2011

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18/8/11 15:39:30

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• NVL September ADS.indd 17

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Perspectives

A legacy that changes lives Marshal Papworth was a local farmer who believed in helping people to help themselves and today thousands of people are reaping the benefit. Sue Dobson explains

W

hen Huntingdonshire farmer Marshal Papworth took his first trip to Africa, he saw more than the wildlife he’d been looking forward to spotting on safari. He looked at the land, learned of the difficulties rural communities were facing, and realised that lack of knowledge and practical skills were preventing them from getting the most from their animals and crops. So he did something about it. Over the years, until his untimely death in 2000, he made many friends among the small-scale farmers that he helped. What’s more, he left a legacy that would change the lives of thousands of people.

A long-standing member of the East of England Agricultural Society, Marshal bequeathed a trust fund to be managed by the Society for the further education of agricultural students from developing countries.

Charles Reynolds, who farms at Brigstock, is the ideal person to chair the Fund. Through friendships made with African fellow students at the Royal Agricultural College in Cirencester, Charles spent time working in development and on commercial farms in Zimbabwe, resulting in a love of Africa and an understanding of some of the land-use difficulties facing the continent.

“In the ten years since the Fund was launched, over 70 students from Africa and Asia have received scholarships for post-graduate study,” he says. “I never cease to be amazed at the personal sacrifices so many of the students make to study here and their determination to put the knowledge they have gained to good effect in their home countries.”

Their subjects have included environment and sustainable development, water management, natural resources, forestry, international horticulture and project planning. These are one-year, MSc courses at UK universities and colleges and most beneficiaries are in their early 30s, often working in government departments or for nonBridget Nkor from Nigeria was enthusiastic about the vocational course she attended at Shuttleworth College

Participants in the first agricultural short course at Shuttleworth College pictured at the 2011 East of England Show

governmental organisations (NGOs).

“In this 10th anniversary year, we’ve partnered with Shuttleworth College in Bedfordshire to develop an eight-week agricultural course covering crop and animal husbandry, appropriate machinery and small business skills,” Charles tells me. “It’s valuable knowledge and experience that the participants will transfer to their farming communities back home.”

The man and his vision Marshal Papworth grew up on Darlow Farm near Ramsey, now part of the Great Fen Project, and went on to farm at Upwood, where he designed and built much of his own farm equipment. With an interest in vintage machinery and his collection of old tractors, he was instrumental in setting up the Ramsey Rural Museum.

A quiet man with a sense of adventure, Marshal joined Cambridge University Gliding Club and later leased some of his land at Upwood to the Nene Valley Gliding Club. When he converted to power flight in the 1990s, he built his own plane from a kit. He was tragically killed when his plane crashed in bad weather.

His brother Stuart describes him as a thoughtful, forward-thinking person and a firm believer in helping people to help themselves.

“He’d go to Africa on a safari holiday and be laden down with excess baggage containing bits of equipment he knew local farmers would appreciate,” Stuart remembers.

“He wanted his money to get to people who could put it to good use and in 1986 he came up with the idea of providing study scholarships.

He’d seen how farming works in the developing world and knew that one person’s gained knowledge and skills would be handed down to improve the lives and income of hundreds of poor families.”

Student successes Ugandan civil engineer Philip Tibenderana studied Water Management at Cranfield University, specialising in Community Water and Sanitation. Now Water Engineer and Deputy Programme Co-ordinator with a staff of 40 for a community-based NGO in south western Uganda, he’s instrumental in improving the lives of thousands of rural poor people.

Isaac Kankam-Boadu from Ghana was a co-ordinator for the UN Millennium Villages Project when he gained a Marshal Papworth scholarship to study Project Planning and Management at the University of Bradford.

Once home, he secured the role of Project Manager on the Northern Ghana Food Security Project, working with 10,000 small-scale rural farmer households (around 70,000 people). In the first year the project saw a 300 per cent increase in crop yields with most households having enough food to see them through the year.

• For more information visit the website http://www.marshalpapworth.com/

Marshal Papworth pictured on one of his vintage tractors

McCloud Kayira from Malawi, who gained his MSc in Applied Development Studies at Reading University NENE VALLEY LIVING September 2011

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HOME AND GARDEN

The crafts revolution Think of craft and what do you picture? A dignified gentleman carving something out of wood?

Or a scratchy knitted sweater from your childhood? But times are changing, and crafts have never been so covetable, reports Emily Bull.

W

ith the help of people like Kirstie Allsop and her recent “Kirstie’s Homemade Home” TV series, a new generation is getting interested in making their own homewares, gifts and clothing. The reasons vary from the recession and climate change to soaring business rates. For me it started with a new life - that of a little boy called Charlie, to be precise.

His christening came just at the wrong time for our budget: we were faced with a choice of bland, high street tat when we really wanted to give him something that would stand out, and stay with him for years.

I’d always been creative so the idea of a hand made baby blanket came fairly quickly, and YouTube became a surprisingly good (and free) teacher of the basic crochet stitches I needed.

A bit of a twist came when we began putting it together and a bolt of inspiration struck: my Space Invader blanket went down a storm.

Crochet: the new yoga?

It seems I’m not alone in picking up a new skill in order to make gifts and even things to sell. Angela Watson from Art and Stitch in Woodston agrees. “More and more people are staying at home in the evenings rather than going out so they are looking for something they can do.

Want to We’re also seeing a growing learn a new craft? trend in recycling and If you lack the confidence upcycling. People are to try a new craft on your own, a doing things like getting workshop can provide the boost you an old tablecloth and need. Margaret Rowan at Rowantree Craft turning into a bag or Studio in Nassington runs a selection of something else at very courses designed to inspire. Rag rug making, little cost. Craft has crochet, knitting, sewing and paper crafts are always been there, all on offer at the purpose made studio. but it comes and goes • For details, call 01780 783323 or visit and certain skills come computer game inspired www.rowantreeworkshops.co.uk into fashion and then die products would mix too Rowantree Craft Studio, away again. Knitting and well. I decided to start 24 Station Rd, Nassington, especially crochet are very Handmade In Peterborough Peterborough. popular at present.”

(HiP), taking my inspiration from So, is crochet the new yoga? the “Stitch ‘n’ Bitch” social nights that Could it go beyond a lonely pastime and have swept America by storm. I set up a weekly bring people together? I decided to find Monday night meeting at the Brewery Tap pub, out. Surely I couldn’t the only person in with the very first one falling on Valentine’s Peterborough to think making stuff was cool?

Day. As the time drew near, I started to panic.

There were a couple of groups already in Would anyone turn up? Would I end up looking existence but they mostly met during the day, like an insane jilted girlfriend making blankets once every couple of months or were clearly on her own in a restaurant and crying? Luckily aimed at the over 70’s, where I didn’t think my eight people arrived and the next week we had

20

even more! We now have an average of 15 to 20 people every week doing everything from card making to bead weaving and cross-stitch.

Micro-shopping centre There’s a growing market for the products too.

People are more aware of where their items are coming from, what they are made from, if they are fair trade or not; and there is no better way of finding out about that if you can talk directly to the person who made it. From our group, a few people are hoping to start the next generation of craft fair and Peterborough itself is a prime location. Setting up a small shop in

NENE VALLEY LIVING September 2011

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PHOTOS: Dave Phillips

of the most beautiful buildings in the city and we want shoppers to expect the unexpected with music, entertainment and a café. We are starting to run late night shopping events once a month on a Thursday night. It’s early days yet but we hope by Christmas to be well known across the area.”

the city centre is an expensive business and this shows, with very few quality independents surviving. This in turn gives local makers little chance of getting into the major shopping areas.

Local poet and HiP member Keely Mills recognised this early on and when she was given the chance to start organising events at St John’s Church on Cathedral Square, she saw the potential immediately.

“With Handmade at St John, we aim to grow into more than a group of people sitting at tables.” she explains, “we want it to become a grassroots micro-shopping centre. It’s one

Craft is dead. Long live handmade!

Stephen Reed from Pondskipper Crafts agrees that a city centre market could work. “There are so many shops on the High Street selling things that look handmade, and they probably are, but by people in China who are on tuppence a day.

There is some interest in buying local but it’s just difficult to get the message out there, you have to clever with how you market things and don’t assume you can charge a premium just because you made it.”

One interesting point that HiP discovered by asking people, especially men, was that the best way to advertise a craft fair, is to ban the word craft. We posed the question: on Christmas Eve, if you had money in your pocket and presents to buy and you saw a Craft Fair would you go in? The answer was nearly always no. Surprisingly even husbands of women who craft still said no. Those images of naff products

by Nannas, for Nannas just won’t go away.

But the reaction to a Handmade Market was completely different. People tell us it sounds younger, and higher quality. Craft is dead. Long live handmade.

Stephen says that as well as getting people in, we have to concentrate on quality. “We used to see card makers charging £4-5 for pretty basic stuff but then it became popular and suddenly every fair you saw was oversubscribed with cards and that can put off the buyers. In a way, that’s a good thing as that leads to new innovation. You have to be a bit more creative to stand out. And you have to make people think you are a local version of Covent Garden if you want to form a retail submarket.”

So the standards are set pretty high and for a bunch of novices, growing that reputation will be tricky, but perhaps not impossible.

Time will tell if craft is here to stay or whether it fades from view, but while we’ve got it as an excuse to have a great time and a pint of ale in our local pub, it will never disappear entirely.

Contacts: Pondskipper Crafts, 6 Woodston Business Centre, Shrewsbury Avenue, Peterborough.

PE2 7EF Art and Stitch, 33 Aston Business Park, Shrewsbury Avenue, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, PE2 7BF Handmade in Peterborough meets every Monday night from 7pm at the Brewery Tap, 80 Westgate, PE1 2AA Handmade at St John will take place on Thursdays: September 15th, October 20th, November 17th December 1st, 8th, 15th and 22nd

NENE VALLEY LIVING September 2011

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Health & beauty

notes

Bridget Steele rounds up the latest news from local health and beauty businesses

cal Attention, varifo wearers!

ll renowned for stgate Arcade is we We in s ian tic d frames or op st The Oculi latest in engineere r; whether it’s the ea rd to stay ew ha ey rks ive at wo ov inn ependent optician ind is th s, se iliar with len sophisticated ll be only too fam rifocal wearers wi Va . rtions, me to ga e dis l th ra of ahead lenses; periphe many high street dition of ad t ns es tio lat ita e lim Th e ). th ar zones (see pic ne d an te which is dia al oc me limited inter PERIOR varif ily is the SEIKO SU fam s len st uli Oc n. e to Th al lens desig olution in individu described as a rev : l field by for every wearer It increases visua e a personal lens uc od pr to s ble ria •5,740,000,000 va asurements frame and facial me •Several additional ification ation for lens spec •Lifestyle consult bust alified staff of the extremely ro •Only fitted by qu the added benefit ve ha s se len OR All SUPERI d. antCoat as standar terborough SEIKO SuperResist stgate Arcade, Pe We 24 to in p po or 21 56 • Call 01733 55

Banish brown spots Many of us get them as we age: small brown spots on the face, hands or other sun-exposed areas of the body. The new Energist UltraPlus VPL system, available at Peterborough’s BodyLaser Clinic, includes an exciting new treatment for these blemishes. Unlike freckles they tend to last for long periods and don’t disappear in the winter. Brown spots are caused by a combination of sun damage and a decline in the hormones that regulate the production of melanin. Melanin is a pigment that gives colour to the skin and hair. It helps protect the skin from the harmful sun’s rays but increased amounts of melanin pigment often result in the formation of dark, brown spots. Prolonged sun exposure causes the skin cells to produce more melanin and results in surface pigment changes. BodyLaser Clinic’s new UltraPlus machine uses light energy to break up the melanin into smaller particles. After a few days these particles fade and disappear without a trace. In most cases the brown spots are completely removed after only one treatment.

• BodyLaser Clinic is located at 58 Broadway. www.bodylaser.co.uk. Tel: 01733 555200.

Before

After

Dentistry in the city centre The Cathedral Square Dental Practice (formerly Spa Dental) has now been taken over by Total Dentalcare which is a well established group of practices started in the south of England. The city centre practice has always provided high quality general dentistry as well as areas of speciality and this will continue under the existing team of dentists and hygienists. Facilities are being upgraded to provide a modern and soothing environment for patients. The facility will also incorporate an Implant Centre which provides teeth in a day. Cosmetic treatments are also available and the Practice will shortly be offering informal consultations where patients can see the treatments available, enjoy a nibble and meet the dentists involved.

• For more information contact Total Dentalcare, 3rd Floor, Market Chambers, Cathedral Square, Peterborough PE1 1YW Tel: 01733 314131

A facelift without surgery

A non-invasive cosmetic technique that safely and effectively improves the health and appearance of the skin is on offer at Elysia Health and Beauty, Tansor. The process uses technologies developed in medical and physiotherapy fields to activate the skin’s natural chemicals and promises great results with no risk of side effects. It claims to benefit clients who want a healthier, younger and fresher looking appearance by toning muscles in the face and neck, lifting jowls and eyebrows, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, improving facial circulation, providing skin exfoliation, lymphatic drainage and lots more. It uses microcurrent technology by Pulsar which gently triggers the body’s own cellular renewal. This treatment is ideal for prevention as well as repair – and would benefit anyone 25 plus. Elysia Health and Beauty specialize in skin care and the therapists are keen to for their clients to get the most out of a treatment. The exciting thing about these facials is that you can tailor make a course – combining galvanic, Microdermabrasion, micro-current and light therapy, for example. “People today want to combine a relaxing facial with long lasting results,” says Elysia’s owner Lisa Claypole. For visible results a course of 10 treatments is recommended. It costs £400 for a course of 10 facials or £45 per treatment. After an initial course, a monthly top-up is all that is required to keep skin looking its best. • For more information contact Lisa at Elysia Health and Beauty, Fotheringhay Road, Tansor, Oundle Peterborough. Tel: 01832 226328 or 07879 620196. Open Monday to Saturday 9am – 9pm

8 NENE 22 NENEVALLEY VALLEYLIVING LIVINGJuly September 2008 2011

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23

• NVL September ADS.indd 23

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• NVL September ADS.indd 24

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PHOTOS: TOM McALPIN INTERIORS

PHOTOS: HUNTERS INTERIORS

INTERIORS

Living in colour Vibrant shades and bold prints feel fresh and energising and they’ll bring your rooms bang up to date, says Fiona Cumberpatch

B

The effect of light on colour could influence your choice. “South facing rooms get sun all day long, so they can take warm or cool colours. But beware: really vivid colours intensify in bright sunlight,” says Jill. “Deep tones work, but lighter shades can be too dazzling. In a north-facing room, the light is cool and blueish. Use a warm colour to brighten the room. Yellow and pink are good, but white and blue won’t work. And if you do want to use a blue or a green, you must select a shade with a warm base tone.”

Continues Jill: “in an east facing bedroom, the morning light is bright, so use warm or cool colours. West facing bedrooms get sun in the afternoons and evenings, so make sure whichever colour you choose has a warm base tone. And before you commit to a colour – try it out in practice.”

This year designers have produced some sumptuous collections featuring bold, graphic patterns as well as jewel colours. Candida, at Hunters Interiors says: “be brave! It’s fine to mix colours and patterns. If you want to use florals and stripes, for example, it will work so long as the colours blend nicely. Scale also has something to do with it. If you are using two florals in a room, one on a fabric, one on NENE VALLEY LIVING September 2011

25 26 LIVING COLOUR.indd 1

Continued on page 26 ▲

right, beautiful colours are everywhere this season, and we shouldn’t be afraid to embrace them. Bold shades look good in every room, and with a little know how, you can make them work for you. “Colours promote emotional reactions and you need to consider this when choosing your main colour,” says Jill at Tom McAlpin Interiors, Peterborough.

“In general, bright colours make you feel energetic, so they work well in rooms used for lots of activities and entertaining.”

Jill suggests following a few golden rules to make your colour scheme sing. “Warm colours are reds, yellows or oranges. These are known as advancing colours because they bring surfaces closer, so they can make a room feel smaller,” she explains. “Cool colours are blues, violets, greys, and some shades of green. And they do the opposite. They’re receding colours and make surfaces appear further away. So they can make a room feel larger. But just to confuse things, you can warm up a cold colour like blue by adding touches of red, orange or brown, and you can cool down a warm shade by doing the opposite and adding blue, grey or green.”

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18/8/11 15:30:51

INTERIORS

Shop the look

Turquoise bump chair, £1,400, John Lewis, Queensgate Centre, Peterborough PE1 1NL Tel: 01733 322644

“Be brave! It’s fine to mix colours and patterns.”

Candida at Hunters Interiors wallpaper, for example, one should be larger than the other.”

Remember, too, that bold colours need bold accessories. “The more textures and patterns that you add to a room, the more interesting it is,” says Candida. For modern accessories, try Hirst & Hirst Living in Oakham, NGI Design in Stamford, Reba, Peterborough and John Lewis at the Queensgate Centre, Peterborough.

If you know you want to use more colour in your home, but aren’t sure how to begin, Jill at Tom McAlpin Interiors suggests using a starting point such as a piece of fabric, a painting or a page that you’ve pulled out of a magazine.

An interior designer can help you to translate this into a scheme that would work in your room, and advise you on how to best combine the various elements. It’s time to expand your horizons, open your senses and start living in colour!

Contacts: Tom McAlpin Interiors, Millisle House, 41-43 Culley Court, Bakewell Rd, Orton Southgate, Peterborough PE4 6SP Tel: 01733 230499 Hunters Interiors The Dairy, Copthill Farm Enterprises, Deeping Rd, Uffington, Stamford, Lincs PE9 4TD Tel: 01780 757946 www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk

26

Purple Snuggler Sofa, £299, John Lewis, Peterborough

Multicoloured Pip Studio Cushion, £50, John Lewis

Orange chair by Penny Banks, Hirst & Hirst Living, 18 Church St, Oakham, LE15 6AA Tel: 01572 723800

Rosa Alba fabric by Nina Campbell, £50 a metre from Tom McAlpin Interiors

NENE VALLEY LIVING September 2011

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THE LAMPSHADE WAREHOUSE Est.1986

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

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G

et 1 sh 0% ip o yo m ff th u b ent you is ri w r ad ng he ne ve in n xt rt

We work with all the major international couriers including UPS, FedEx, and Parcelforce Worldwide

Whatever you have to send, wherever it’s going, we can get it there.* Mail Boxes Etc., Leicester, 14 Belvoir Street, Leicester, LE1 6QH tel: 01162 553 182 - fax: 01162 553 182 e-mail: info@mbeleicester.co.uk - www.mbe.co.uk

The

Shuckburgh Arms at Southwick “A proper country pub”

Walk this Way...

F

or more than 400 years, the Shuckburgh Arms at Southwick has been serving weary travellers with good food and honest real ales. Situated in the heart of the area’s best hiking country, we’re open 10am-11pm Monday to Friday, 9am-11pm Saturdays and 9am-10pm Sundays, serving everything from full English breakfasts to full evening meals, plus hearty home-made soups and tasty bar snacks.

Walkers are welcome to use our car park as their base for exploring the lovely woods and open countryside.

Tel: 01832 272044

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ACTIVITIES

W O O D L A N D WA L KS

Short and Southwick Woods Just south of the village of Southwick are two small and delightful woods which are now connected by a piece of land which will also become a wood, providing a delightful circular tour up from the village

Distance: Typical time: OS map:

Start & finish: Terrain: Stiles:

4.5 miles 2 hours Explorer (1:25 000) 224 or Landranger (1: 50 000) 141 Shuckburgh Arms, Southwick Straightforward, good tracks all the way A stile on the path up to the wood, otherwise straightforward Yes 3 miles NE of Oundle

Dog friendly: Getting there: Refreshments: The Shuckburgh Arms, Southwick, PE8 5BL. Tel: 01832 272044 serves great beer, great pub food and has a huge garden looking up towards the woods.

Open from 10am for breakfast/coffee DIRECTIONS Park in the Shuckburgh Arms car park, and take the path heading south, over a stile across the playing field, and follow it up the side of the hill to the eastern edge of Short Wood, At the entrance to Short Wood, turn left along a track across recently acquired conservation land, to a metal gate which exits onto the road just to the left of the water tower

3 4

Eventually you will come out at the east end of the wood (Point 2), turn left and retrace your steps back down to Southwick.

5

Southwick Wood Much of this ancient woodland site was replanted to replace elm trees felled in the late 1960s due to Dutch elm disease. It now contains a mix of oak, ash, field maple and hazel. The developing woodland provides cover for a range of visiting bird species including willow warbler, woodcock and tawny owl.

An audio trail of a walk through this wood is available from www.wildlifebcnp. org/podcasts.htm along with a more detailed map.

Cross the road, enter into Southwick Wood, and proceed for about half a mile along the forest track Where there is a path to the right, take this and follow the edge of the wood around to the right, then head north until the second turning left, take that up a slight incline and starting to head south west back towards the exit Veer left as you approach the wood edge, then take the next right heading back towards the exit; at the next fork take the right and you will soon be back at the exit of the wood.

Turn left a couple of hundred metres up the road past the water tower and take the footpath shortly after which takes off on the right back towards Short Wood Enter Short Wood by the main entrance, taking a good look at the map on display to orient yourself and determine your route; there is a shorter red and longer yellow trailed route, but although a circuit makes sense avoid going all the way around the edge as some of the most wildlife-rich rides bisect the wood (Primrose way, for example)

6

Dodhaws Between Short Wood and Southwick Wood the Wildlife Trust has purchased an area of former arable land, now called Dodhaws Wood. This area will be allowed to regenerate naturally to woodland with tree and other seed brought there by birds and wind.

Short Wood is one of the remaining fragments of the ancient Rockingham Forest – a Medieval hunting forest – the site features areas of elm coppice and mixed coppice with large oak and ash trees. In spring a carpet of bluebells and dog’s mercury covers much of the wood.

Primrose, wood speedwell and wood melick are also abundant.

SOUTHWICK

1

5 4

1

2

7

7

SOUTHWICK WOOD

3

2 Water Tower

SHORT WOOD

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Perspectives

The truth about care home fees

Jo Wild, solicitor at Hegarty LLP, outlines the basic considerations for long term care funding, a subject which causes worry for many families

M

any of my clients have become concerned about the prospect of care home fees and the possibility that their estate will be eaten up by these demands. They are worried about the impact this will have on their inheritance to their loved ones. We are an ageing population and these are issues which are receiving significant press coverage.

It may be crucial for you to consider taking professional advice on what might be one of the largest financial commitments you could make in considering the provision of payments of long term care.

Under the current system, when you move into a care home a financial assessment is undertaken. This is called the ‘means test.’ This test will be carried out by the local authority.

They will assess the level of capital (savings, property and other assets) that you have in order to decide your ability to pay towards your care home fees. It is important that the means test is carried out to ensure that all the fees are paid from the right source.

Working it out There are financial limits set down under guidelines which are updated annually.

Currently if you have capital of less than £14,250 then the local authority will make the maximum contribution. It could be that if you are in a private home that this maximum contribution will not actually cover your entire fees and your family or another source may be asked to make up the difference.

• If you have capital between £14,250 and £23,250 then the local authority will provide funding for care on a sliding scale.

• If you have capital over £23,500 then you will be responsible for funding your own care.

reduce the assessed value of your interest in your home, depending on the circumstances of ownership.

The local authority will also look at assets that you might have owned previously and what you have done with them. There is no time limit as to how far back a local authority can look. They are trying to see whether you have deliberately given away assets in order to avoid paying care home fees. If you have, this would be known as ‘deliberate deprivation’. In these circumstances the local authority can try and balance the situation by deeming that you still own the asset concerned in your financial assessment. This can result in a ‘lose lose’ situation, where you no longer have access to the asset, but you still have to pay your care home fees.

Safeguarding your assets You will be wondering if there is anything that you can do to try and plan for care home fees. There are some planning opportunities available, which can be complex depending on your circumstances.

You can choose to make gifts in your lifetime

and there are several options, including lifetime trusts, but specialist advice should be taken so that you can assess whether this would be a suitable route for you.

If you have a spouse or civil partner you might prefer to plan under your will, and to include a trust mechanism in your will to enable you to plan with your home.

When considering your options you should to try and ensure that both your needs and the inheritance you would like to leave your family and loved ones are met. You should seek specialist advice to suit your particular circumstances. If you would like further information, contact Jo Wild on 01780 750952 or jo.wild@hegarty.co.uk.

• Jo Wild is a solicitor with almost 20 years’ experience; she specialises in inheritance tax planning, care fee planning, probate, the preparation of wills and powers of attorney and Court of Protection work. She is a member of the Law Society’s Probate Section, The Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) and Solicitors For the Elderly (SFE).

Capital will include cash, money, investments (most types) and in certain cases the value of your home. Your interest in your home’s value will be disregarded for the first 12 weeks of any stay and it will be exempt if it is occupied by one of the following;• spouse or civil partner • relative who is either 60 or over, • a chid under 16 who the resident is liable to maintain, or • a relative who is incapacitated.

There are other possible disregards at the local authority’s discretion. Any bank or savings account you own jointly will also be taken into account, and the start point is that you own 50% unless you can show evidence otherwise.

There are valuation guidelines for the local authority which can work to significantly

30

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Advertisement Feature

Golf club goes green Local company Page Renewable Energy has installed solar panel system for environmentally-conscious Elton Furze Golf Club

Rio Ricorda (left) and Ben Martin

G

olfers know all about going green – there are 19 of them on most golf courses. But Elton Furze Golf Club is greener than most, thanks to an environmentally-friendly solar panels system fitted on the clubhouse roof.

It was installed by Hampton company Page Renewable Energy, which is fast achieving an enviable reputation for its expertise in this field.

Ben Martin, managing partner at the golf club, which is set in 135 acres of rolling countryside outside Elton, says: “This is a beautiful setting and we’re acutely aware of our environmental responsibilities. There is huge pressure on the environment and I feel strongly about looking after it. We all want to do our bit and be seen to be green, which is why we had the solar panels installed.

“I’ve been thrilled with how it has worked.

It has actually generated more electricity than Page Renewable Energy promised, which means we are saving even more money than we expected. It has been a real bonus.”

The 18-panel system installed by Page Renewable Energy is discreetly situated on the south-east facing roof and generates 4 kilowatts of power, which in turn attracts a

tariff of 43p for every kWh (kilowatt/hour) generated and sold back to the grid. It is part of a Government scheme to encourage more homes and businesses to install renewable energy systems and is available until April 2012, with the tariff guaranteed and indexlinked for 25 years.

According to Page Renewable Energy’s managing director, Rio Ricorda, that means most systems pay for themselves within eight years. “After that, you’re in profit,” he says. “These panels are designed to function in the UK climate, so they still convert energy when it is cloudy, so long as there is daylight. You shouldn’t need planning permission unless your home is listed or in HOW MUCH WILL IT COST? The cost depends on the size of the installation, but a 16 panel array producing 4kWp would cost around £10,000 and take a day and a half to install. But this outlay is recouped after a few years thanks to the feedin tariff scheme and savings on your energy bills.

a conservation area, in which case we can obtain planning approval from the council for you.”

The current lucrative scheme that makes installation so cost-effective is known as the feed-in tariff, because surplus electricity feeds into the national grid. You pay nothing for the electricity generated and you are paid for every kWh of energy produced. All moneys received by the energy provider under the feed-in tariff will be tax free. “It is designed to help you save energy,” says Rio. “There’s no doubt that more and more people are becoming aware of their environment and deciding to try and go green.”

Among them are the 700 members of Elton Furze Golf Club. “Although it has only been installed a few weeks, I’ve had several members quiz me about it and ask how they can go about having one at home. They can see the real benefits,” adds Ben. • For more information or a quote, contact Page Renewable Energy at Cygnet Park, 300 Club Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8JA. Tel: 01733 568358. Website: www.pagegrouppeterborough.co.uk/ domestic-solar-panels-peterborough NENE VALLEY LIVING September 2011

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Activities

Family adventures It’s not too late to explore the great outdoors this summer with these great ideas for some active adventures.

Down to the river Joe Steele, 18, and friends tried a four day canoe trip along the River Nene, courtesy of local company Canoe 2.

Andrae, Ben and I began our adventure at Ditchford, Northamptonshire, where we camped overnight, ready for our 8.30am start on Monday morning.

We received our canoe and transport for the next few days. Canoe 2 briefed us and advised us on the route.

We packed our belongings into the three man canoe. We took small sleeping bags, food and clothes.

Our first day covered a stretch from Ditchford to Wadenhoe, which included lots of locks and portage points. At each lock, the canoe has to be carried out of the water and wheeled to the other side of the loch gate. We hadn’t realised how many loch gates there are on the Nene! But the scenery was amazing and the journey soon passed, followed by a luxury camping pitch for the night.

Following our first long day’s paddle, we were rewarded with a short four mile trip to Barnwell.

This took just a couple of hours and we arrived at the well located site where an amazing yurt awaited us. The huge space suited the three of us perfectly. The cosy Moroccan style made it relaxing and a welcome break from the rain outside. We were also provided with the use of a fire, gas hob and a chemical loo.

After an excellent night’s sleep in the yurt, we were given a plentiful breakfast kit (locally sourced from Seven Wells). We tucked into bacon, eggs, sausages, mushrooms and fresh bread. Fuelled up for the day’s canoeing, we began a four hour paddle to Fotheringhay, where we spotted the campsite right on the mound by the village overlooking the Nene. We had water and disposal facilities, and we took a short walk to the local pub, The Falcon, in the village.

Our final day began early: we were on the river by 8am, slightly hampered by miserable weather, including a huge downpour. We paddled along a picturesque stretch for five hours, arriving at our final point at Wansford Station (on the Nene Valley Railway). We were hungry and wet, but very proud of ourselves.

We enjoyed a great trip, very well planned and with everything we could possibly need, thanks to Canoe 2.

• Canoe 2. Tel: 01604 832115 http://www.canoe2.co.uk/

Canoeing the Ne ne

On yer bike Only 20 minutes from Peterborough city centre, Fineshade Wood offers a great day out for kids of all ages. One of the best ways to make the most of your day is to bring your bikes and cycle around the marked family trails. These routes are very flat and designed for the novice cyclist, so it doesn’t matter if you’re not very fit or have very young children. If you want something more challenging, you can enjoy the more advanced cycling skills loops (that’s short off-road sections into the forest). If you can’t transport your bikes, or don’t have any, a cycle hire centre has just opened on site. It’s open from 9am-6pm.

If you prefer to walk, there are many trails throughout the beautiful ancient woodlands of Fineshade. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) has a base in the woods as

Fineshade is well known for its Red Kite sightings. If you’re a nature lover, you will enjoy sightings of deer, butterflies, orchids and reptiles, which are all present in the woods. For lunch, there are plenty of spots for a picnic, or you can enjoy a bite to eat in the Top Lodge Café. There are also a number of independent arts and crafts shops near the café, with goods made from local sustainable materials. The visitor centre is open from 10am5pm and there is a baby changing facility and toilets in the entrance atrium.

• Fineshade is signposted from the A43, nine miles north east of Corby, and six miles south west of Stamford. Postcode is NN17 3BB. Entry is free but parking costs £3 for a day or £1 for one hour. For further information, visit : http//www.forestry.gov. uk/toplodge/

Cycling at Fineshade NENE VALLEY LIVING September 2011

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WHAT’S ON

Diary dates

Thursday 15 September PLAY: Penny Dreadful’s Etherdome 7.45pm Disaster-comedy set in 1850s America, where the quest for pain relief takes a detour via lunacy, addiction and a duck pond!

• Tickets: £9.50.The Stahl Theatre, West Street, Oundle, PE8 4EJ. Contact 01832 273 930, stahltickets@oundleschool.org.uk or http://oscar01. savoysystems.co.uk/stahltheatre.dll/

Yasmin Bradley selects this month’s event highlights

September 1

THURSDAY

2

FRIDAY

Until Monday 5 September

3

SATURDAY

EVENT: Land Zorbs and HydroSphere in Ferry Meadows 11am to 5 pm You’ve tried Hydrosphere (Lynch Lake) now give Land Zorbs a go (Coney Meadow) – weather permitting.

• £3: 3/4-minute Hydrosphere session; £5: 5-minute Zorb session (over 3- year olds only). http:/www.zorb-leisure.com or http://www. neneparktrust.org. Telephone: 01733 234193.

4

SUNDAY

Saturday 17 September CONCERT: ‘Through Younger Eyes’ 1.30pm - 4.30pm Listen to true stories told by Oundle and Rushden older folk magically transformed into song by folk band, Frumenty.

• Contact: Serve, 19 Church Street, Rushden, NN10 9YU on 01933 315555 for a free ticket. Townsend Court, Rushden, NN10 0FR. http://www.serve.org.uk/

Tuesday 20 September GIG: Fenech Soler and special guests 7.30 pm A local band with a national reputation, this gig is part of the rescheduled tour, following lead singer Ben Duffy’s return to good health.

• The Cresset, Peterborough. Tickets £8.

Box office: 01733 265705

Saturday 24 September EVENT: Auction of Promises - 7pm Bid for exciting, donated prizes - many which money could not buy - in aid of a once-in-a-lifetime expedition to Peru by King’s School students. Warwick Davis, star of Harry Potter and Narnia is auctioneer; adventurer and TV presenter, Benedict Allen is the after-dinner speaker. Dinner, bar and live music.

• Tickets: £20. The King’s School, Park Road, Peterborough, PE1 2UE. Contact: js.peru2012@ gmail.com, or 01733 5608210.

Friday 30 September EVENT: Storytelling with Polly Howat at Clare Cottage - 7pm - 9pm Fen folklore, old wives cures and horse magic!

• Tickets: £5 including a glass of wine. (See above).

5

MONDAY

6

TUESDAY

7

WEDNESDAY

8

THURSDAY

9

FRIDAY

10

SATURDAY

11

SUNDAY

12

MONDAY

13

TUESDAY

14

WEDNESDAY

15

THURSDAY

16

FRIDAY

17

SATURDAY

18

SUNDAY

19

MONDAY

PLAY: Crossed Keys - 7.30pm Be the first to see this play by Peterborough writer Greg Lyons: stories of love, laughter and loss are intriguingly united by a Crossed Keys pattern in block paving… • £3 or two for £5. Contact: 01473 211498 or www.easternangles.co.uk. The Brewery Tap, Westgate, PE1 2AA and later in September and October at other venues throughout the city. Visit http://www.facebook.com/event. php?eid=162633947142718 for full details.

TUESDAY

Wednesday 28 September

20

Tuesday 13 September

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21

WEDNESDAY

22

THURSDAY

23

FRIDAY

24

SATURDAY SUNDAY

26

MONDAY

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TUESDAY

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WEDNESDAY

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THURSDAY FRIDAY

Wednesday 28 September,

TALK: Langdyke Countryside Trust Meadow talk 7.30pm - Natural England’s grassland specialist, Richard Jefferson talks about meadows and his forthcoming book ‘Jewels beyond the Plough’ stunningly illustrated by wildlife artist, John Davis.

• Free. St Botolph, Church Lane, Helpston, PE6 7DQ

Thursday 29 September

25

30

WORKSHOP: Cooking from Clare Cottage garden 10am - Enjoy a demonstration by Sarah Lyall using vegetables from Clare Cottage garden to create delicious dishes for your lunch.

• Tickets: £7 on 01733 253330. Clare Cottage, Woodgate, Helpston, Peterborough, PE6 7ED.



PLAY: Bart Lee Theatre presents Medea, My Dear 7.45 pm.

This explosive new version tells the story of Barbarian princess, Medea, and Jason of The Argonauts, who travel through time from the fantastical isle of Barbarus in 431 BC to Lloret del Mar, Spain in May 2010 to reveal that themes and taboos explored by Euripides still affect our society today.

• Tickets: £9.50.The Stahl Theatre. (see above.) www.bartleetheatre.co.uk NENE VALLEY LIVING September 2011

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DIRECTORY COMPUTER SERVICES

LANDSCAPING

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• NVL September Directory.indd 47

Raspberries. Plums. Blackberries. Sweetcorn, Pumpkins & Squash. 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 10am - 6pm Sat/Sun 10am - 5pm closed Mondays except bank holidays Please ring for up to date crop information or to order ready picked produce

TEL & FAX 01733 233270

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To place an advert in next month’s magazine please call Bridget on 01733 707538

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www.bestlocalliving.co.uk 18/8/11 14:36:11

weddings

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The stunning and exquisite Regional Wedding Show returns to Burghley House

Sunday 6th November 2011 - 10am - 4.30pm Tickets: £5 in advance, Group Booking discounts in advance, or £6 on the day

Online at: www.essentialmediaevents.co.uk

or call: 01780 766543

The 1st 400 registered brides to receive a stunning goody bag See the region’s finest wedding exhibitors within the full splendour of Burghley House Sparkling drinks reception and canapés, courtesy of Amps Fine Wines - Oundle, & Chefs Thyme - Peterborough

A beautiful Catwalk Show featuring the UK’s top wedding designers A grand musical firework finale to close the show - Courtesy of Komodo Fireworks

For further information call 01780 766543 email: sonja@theessentialweddingsshow.co.uk The Essential Wedding Show is part of the Essential Media Events Ltd and Local Living Magazines 39

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