Nene Valley Living Sept 13

H el p i n g

you

to

get

t he

most

out

of

living

NENE VALLEY LIVING food/fashion/health

Invisible women?

Germaine Greer comes to town Fabulous food Peruvian, organic – and cream teas

&

beauty/home

&

LOCALLY

garden/lifestyle

A boutique B&B Steal their style

£1.50 SEPTEMBER 2013 Nene Valley Living www.bestlocalliving.co.uk

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N ENE VA L L EY LIVING

Cover image: BY LESLEY ANNE CHURCHILL. STYLING: FIONA CUMBERPATCH LOCATION: SWALLOWS REST B&B, BRIGSTOCK, FLOWERS BY FOXTAIL LILLY

This Issue S EPTEM BER 2013

W

ith the start of a new school year, September always feels like the month to try something different. As usual, we have plenty of suggestions for you. Top of my list this month will be Peterborough’s We Love Words Festival of Literature and Poetry, which takes place from 20 -28 September. A great roster of speakers has been lined up for this event, now in its second year. Michael Portillo, Alexei Sayle and Benjamin Zephaniah will be in town, and there’s a chance to hear actors Robert Powell and Elizabeth Garvie celebrating the work of Jane Austen on September 28 at The Key Theatre.

On September 25, Germaine Greer will be speaking, and you can read more about her contribution in our feature on page 13. For details of all the events, ring The Key Theatre Box Office on 01733 207239.

Another event to look forward to is Peterborough’s Italian Festival on September 21st and 22nd. It’s a two day celebration of Italian culture and traditions which takes place in Cathedral Square. A 30 piece marching band from the Foggia Region of Italy will be performing on both days, and there will be a cooking demonstration by Italian chef Gennaro Contaldo on the Sunday. Displays will include Peterborough Lambretta and Vespa Scooter Club and a range of Italian motorcycles and cars, and local Italian businesses such as Papa Luigi, Barista, The Pasta Shop and Frankie and Benny’s will be exhibiting and selling delicious food.

Enjoy the month!

Fion a Cu mberpatch Editor

5 Editor’s Selection

Host a Macmillan coffee morning

7 Upfront

Vanessa White of The Saturdays at Queensgate

8 Upfront

Spotlight on Florence

11 Upfront

A relaxed day with Shaw’s coaches

13 Disappearing Women?

Do women become invisible as they age?

14 Food News

Sunday lunch at The Red Lion

24 Boutique Bed and Breakfast

The stylish Swallows Rest in Brigstock

27 We Love Ewe A woolly tale

28 Health and Beauty Notes The Bowen Technique explained

32 Discover N1C

London’s newest destination

35 A Load of Old Bull?

The history of Peterborough’s oldest hotel

17 A Taste of Peru

A pop up restaurant in Peterborough

37 When there’s Trouble at Work

18 Prime Cuts

Why Mytton Meats is forging ahead

41 Fitzwilliam Cosmetic

20 An Apple a Day

42 The Ash Tree

22 Homes and Interiors Notes

45 Diary Dates

Cider making in Stamford

The lowdown on employment tribunals

Anti ageing procedures by the experts

A native tree that is facing a challenge

Interesting activities for September

Beautiful cushions and blinds

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

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NENE VALLEY LIVING SEPTEMBER 2013

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THE OLD BARN WADENHOE

WHATEVER YOU’RE DREAMING...

Set in the beautiful village of Wadenhoe • Light Lunches & Set 2 Course Daily Special • Afternoon Tea - Home Made Cakes & Preserves • Gluten free sandwiches, cakes & scones available • Inside & Outside Seating

I’d like to work from home Luxury Afternoon Tea £12pp

GIFTS • IRONWORK • CRAFTS • PLANTS SHRUBS • BAY TREES • OLIVE TREES Theme nights once a month. Booking essential

• Caribbean BBQ Party on 31st August £20 pp

Large Selection of Summer Bedding Plants Lemon Drizzle & Black Forrest Hanging Baskets - Pre - order available

ADVICE H E L P, W I T H E X P E R T TE ACXA N H E L P E HCAATN WW EVER YOUR THINKING W

Open 7 days a week 9.30am - 5.30pm

All enquires welcome, please call:

01832 721129 Simon Dolby

STEPHENSON SMART & CO CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS & BUSINESS ADVISORS

For more information call 01733 343 275 Stephenson House, 15 Church Walk, Peterborough PE1 2TP w w w . s t e p h e n s o n s m a r t . c o m

An exhibition of watercolour and oil paintings by L.S.I.A.D.

and watercolour, oil and acrylic paintings by

John Frederick Black

M.A., NDD., D.L.C.A.(Hons.), A.T.C. (Dist.), A.T.D., F.F.P.A.A., F.R.S.A

13th September – 5th October 2013

Open Mon - Sat 10am -1pm and 2- 5pm, closed Wednesday pm.

Simon trained at The Ruskin School of Art in Cambridge in the 70’s and worked as a illustrator and designer for many years before embarking on a career as a fine artist 20 years ago.

After buying the old Oundle doctors surgery, he and his wife Gillian converted it into a house and studio, later changing the patients waitings rooms into an art gallery and the Dolby Gallery was

born. Simon paints in watercolour with a pallet reminiscent of many 18th century artists. He paints

architecture and landscape in Northamptonshire, as well as Scotland and France and has won prizes

for his work. He has taken on many commissions for paintings of peoples houses, including Burghley House and several cathedrals.

Venice Regatta on the Grand Canal, from the Ponte dell’Accademia with the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute in the distance. 2013 Watercolour by Simon Dolby 50cm x 71cm

The career of John Frederick Black spans over 40 years, he was born at Appleby Magna in

Leicestershire, and was formally trained at Loughborough, Brighton and Manchester Colleges of Art. “Well known and respected, he is recognised for his truly remarkable range of abilities in different

media and across all manner of subjects. John Black is a poet in visual form, crafting the most exquisite and confident images from his experience and imagination.” Charlotte Phelps at Chapel Gallery.

A distinguished academic career now behind him he is devoted to his painting and studio – where

paper and canvases fill every space – he still finds time to walk the dogs, enjoy time with his family and

instruct other aspiring artists with the benefit of his wealth of knowledge and experience.

If you would like to attend the private view for this exhibiton on Friday 13th September between 7-9pm, then please contact us by email and we will put you on our invitation list.

The Dolby Gallery 30 West Street Oundle Northants PE8 4EF T: 01832 273801 E: enquiries@dolby-gallery.com www.dolby-gallery.com

Floodwater, Acrylic, by John Frederick Black

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GRE AT BUY S FOR S EPTEM BER

Editor’s selection Nice buys to inspire you to join in the Macmillan World’s Biggest Coffee Morning on Friday September 27. Visit www.macmillan.org.uk/getinvolved for details

1

Macmillan’s Little Book of Treats is crammed with celebrity recipes for delicious makes and bakes. £4 from the Marks and Spencer Café in Queensgate Centre, Peterborough, available September 5 – October 3

2

Blue cafetiere, £18.95, from a selection at Stu-Pots, Oundle Tel: 01832 275414

4

5

Terrier mug, £9, small, £11 large, from local designer Sophie Allport, www.sophieallport.com

3

Lyons Battenburg cake, £1.25 each, The Co-operative Food, St Osyth’s Lane, Oundle PE8 4BG

Too busy to bake?

Pastries and tarts from £1 each, The Hambleton Bakery, Jericho, Oundle

6

Tulip muffin cases, £4.25, Stu-Pots, 36 Market Place, Oundle. Tel: 01832 275414

7

Mini tart tins, 50 pence each, from Stu-Pots, Oundle, details as before NENE VALLEY LIVING SEPTEMBER 2013

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LOCAL PRIVATE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS Specialising in treating: • Low self-esteem and loss of confidence

© National Trust Images. Registered Charity Number 205846.

• Low mood, depression, self-harm and suicidal thinking • Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Attachment and relationship difficulties • Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual) Adult Speciality

Visit Lyveden New Bield's brand new Cottage Tearoom

cream teas

Opening times: Every day until 29 September, and Wednesday to Sunday until 27 October between 10:30am and 4:30pm.

Open on weekends in November and December between 11am and 4pm.

01832 205358 nationaltrust.org.uk/lyveden

Johan Truter

Tel: 01780 758556 www.psycholgist.co.uk Orion House, 14, Barn Hill, Stamford PE9 2AE

Child and Adolescent Specialty. EMDR Practitioner

Dr Alexandra Dent

Mbl: 07986 585270 www.alexandradent.co.uk Orion House, 14, Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE Church Street Practice, Melton Mowbray LE13 0PN

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W H AT’ S NEW T HIS MONT H

UpFront Celebrity style at Queensgate Vanessa White, star of girl band The Saturdays, will be marking the most stylish date of the year in Queensgate shopping centre’s calendar on Saturday September 28. Vanessa will kick off a weekend of style by hosting The Show at Queensgate at 11am. Shoppers can also enjoy further catwalk shows across the weekend as part of the centre’s Autumn Fashion Fix. Vanessa commented: “As a dedicated fashion fan, I’m really looking forward to kicking off Queensgate’s celebration of style weekend!”

Laura Sayer, marketing manager at Queensgate added: “ this really is Queensgate’s weekend of style, and it’s great to have Vanessa with us to kickstart it. She is renowned for her great sense of style and her love of high street fashion and I’m sure will prove a hit with our shoppers.”

Shoppers will be treated to a feast of seasonal trends during the catwalk shows, with fashions coming from retailers including John Lewis and Primark. The Show is part of Queensgate’s Autumn Fashion Fix where fashionistas will be able to take advantage of exclusive offers. Competitions and in-store entertainment take place throughout the whole weekend. Shows are free to watch and attend. Visit Queensgate’s website to reserve your seat, or simply take a spot on one of the balconies overlooking the catwalk.

• Queensgate The Show times: Saturday September 28, 11am (hosted by Vanessa), 1pm, 3pm and 5pm Sunday September 29, 11am, 1pm, 3pm.

For ticket information, visit www.queensgates-shopping.co.uk

Financial advice you can trust Ian and Liz Burrows are local financial advisers looking after clients primarily in the Peterborough, Oundle, Kings Cliffe (where they live) and Stamford areas, as well as long standing London based clients from their days in the City.

Both are very highly qualified. Ian holds the Chartered Financial Planner and Certified Financial Planner titles, whilst working towards his Fellowship, and Liz is very close to achieving Chartered status and holds a range of specialist exams. Their expertise has been gained from working for large London practices, many years of study and practical application of their skills. Both have been working for Waveney McKenna for many years and have helped manage significant growth over this period.

There have been a number of changes within the financial services industry and Waveney McKenna has adapted to meet the changing environment and improve services to clients.

Ian has stated that “recent industry changes, most notably the banning of commissions and an increase in adviser examination requirements, have resulted in many larger concerns stopping their financial advisory services. Our intention is to remain local, offer independent advice to individuals and businesses and to continue to expand. We welcome new clients and in particular those finding that their traditional source of help has been removed.”

The company’s service covers all aspects of estate planning, investment portfolio advice, family protection, retirement planning, tax efficient investments and regular reviews. To complement this, Waveney McKenna offers access to client records online for valuations and past correspondence and is continually monitoring the research and reporting it to compliment the additional advice.

Liz Burrows comments: “as well as offering a comprehensive and personal service, we also seek to make matters straightforward and deliver our solutions at a competitive market price – achieved by using technology and our excellent support team.”

• Call: 01733 425818.

Waveney McKenna Limited is authorised and regulated by The Financial Conduct Authority

A new tea room at Lyveden New Bield The unfinished garden lodge at Lyveden, near Oundle, has long been a top visitor attraction in the area, but now the National Trust property has opened up a cottage tea room so that visitors can enjoy some refreshments during their visit. Opened in April this year, the charming cottage provides the perfect venue for a light lunch or afternoon tea, and there’s plenty of opportunity to work up an appetite first by exploring this curious Elizabethan property, which was begun in 1595 by Sir Thomas Tresham, but abandoned after he died in 1605. You can walk in the traditional orchard, planted with fruit trees, and explore the intriguing spiral mounts and terracing. We visited on a gloriously sunny day, and sat in the sheltered cottage garden to enjoy a traditional cream tea. There were excellent home baked fruit scones, strawberry jam and clotted cream, with a pot of tea to accompany and a bottle of rose lemonade for the junior member of the party. You could also choose a savoury tea, with a cheese scone, cream cheese and chutney, a slice of homemade cake or a bowl of soup and a filled roll. The cottage tea room was busy, and it would be a great destination for an early autumn day out.

Highly recommended.

• For opening times and details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lyveden Stop press: The Guide Dogs Fun Day, Embankment Sports and Athletics Arena.

Saturday September 7, 11am-4pm.

Meet guide dogs and puppies, see dog displays, enjoy stalls, games and refreshments.

Entry £1.50

SEPTEMBER 2013

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W H AT’ S NEW T HIS MONT H

UpFront SPOTLIGHT ON FLORENCE Where better to take in some autumn sunshine than Florence, which has inherited a rich cultural heritage and is perfect for a short break?

A must-see is Michelangelo’s huge statue of David, carved from a single block of marble, which takes pride of place in The Accademia Gallery. And Brunelleschi’s gravity defying Duomo which dominates the Florence skyline, together with the world famous Ponte Vecchio Bridge, the oldest in Florence which over the years has housed tanners, butchers, blacksmiths, and finally the goldsmiths shops that still line it today.

The Uffizi Gallery hosts Italy’s most important collection of art, The Medici Collection, and is well worth a visit. City Tours are available from £36 per adult, a little touristy perhaps, but well worth seeing.

Whilst in Florence sampling the local food and drink is a must. Try Schiacciata, a type of Tuscan flatbread with salami and pecorino cheese, accompanied by a glass of wine from the Chianti region. Try Gilli on Piazza della Republica, ideal for an aperitif, before heading off for dinner. The region is popular for its full-bodied red Chianti wine, although here are many Tuscan white wines such as Vernaccia from nearby San Gimigano which are worth sampling. If you have a morning free, Oundle Travel offers a visit to the rolling hills of the Chianti region and a wine estate, from £45 per person, including a light lunch.

Florence is relatively small and most of the hotels are within easy walking distance of the main attractions. For stunning views, choose one of the hotels on the banks of The River Arno.

For a bargain break this spring Oundle Travel recommends the Pitti Palace, a charming little 3* hotel with a unique location and delightful views from the breakfast terrace (from £299 per adult travelling in October/November 2013). Always ask us about free night offers, as these are applicable at certain times of the year.

The 4* Brunelleschi is a characterful hotel hidden away from the main street in a courtyard, in the heart of Renaissance Florence. From £345 per person for a two night stay in November 2013.

Free night offers available on specified dates.

• Call Oundle Travel on 01832 273600 for more information, availability and prices.

CELEBRATING THE ROLLS ROYCE The Rolls Royce is an emblem of classic design, but did you know that Sir Henry Royce was a local lad from Alwalton? To celebrate the 150th anniversary of the iconic vehicle, there’s a weekend of festivities at St Andrew’s Church, Alwalton on September 14 and 15. A display of Rolls Royce cars and memorabilia, floral displays and children’s activities.

• Open Saturday 10am-5pm and Sunday 2pm -5pm.

More info at www.alwaltonchurch.org.uk

BEER FESTIVAL AT THE KINGS ARMS, POLEBROOK Join a weekend of celebration at The Kings Arms, Polebrook on September 13 to the 15, for the sixth annual beer festival. This year, the theme is Mexico, so there will be Mexican beers, tequilas, and delicious Mexican street food cooked and served in the beer tent, along with live music.

Always lots of fun.

• Free entry, no ticket required. Tel: 01832 272363

8

CARE

matters

By Amy Kennedy September is shaping up to be an exciting month for Home Instead Senior Care. Not only are we still buzzing from winning the British Franchising Association’s gold award in August, but we have some exciting plans which will start to be rolled out this autumn.

One of the main focusses at this time of year is recruitment. With the kids returning to school, there are many home makers who start to look for a few hours part time work per week, and the opportunity to make a difference to older people in the community. This September and October, we have set ourselves the target of recruiting another ten people. Interested parties are welcome to get in touch.

But it’s not all about recruitment.

We are also starting to get out and about a lot more now that everyone has returned from their holidays. We want to spread the word about the type of care and support services we can offer. One such event we are co-hosting is an Older Persons Info Day over at the Tansor Assessment Centre, where local residents will be encouraged to come along and find out more about the services available to people in the area. Alongside home care providers such as ourselves, The Alzheimer’s Society, Age UK, Volunteer Action and Wiltshire Farm Foods will be present. Above all, this will be a social occasion, with light refreshments, and the opportunity for carers, family members and local services to have a good get-together and share the best that the local area has to offer older people.

• The Older Persons Info Day, Tansor Assessment Centre, Fotheringhay Rd, Tansor PE8 5HP. 10am -2pm Thursday 26th September.

NENE VALLEY LIVING SEPTEMBER 2013

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Christmas Party Nights 2013 Three course meal with tea and coffee Disco ÂŁ26.50 per person Dates available for Party Nights Saturday 7th December Wednesday 11th December Thursday 12th December Friday 13th December Saturday 14th December Wednesday 18th December Thursday 19th December Friday 20th December

Private functions and lunches also available Visit: efgc.co.uk Call: 01832 280189 Email: info@efgc.co.uk

Call 01778 34 7000 www.tallingtonlakes.com 9

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THE MARSHALL LAND ROVER SERVICE PROMISE For more than 100 years, we at Marshall have been determined to deliver our value of ‘putting our customers above all else.’

At Marshall Land Rover Peterborough we share this commitment to deliver an unbeatable customer experience along with our passion to stand for quality, value for money, & integrity.

So if for any reason whatsoever we do not exceed your expectations, I want to hear from you as we aim to honour our promise to all existing and new customers.

Neil Bushell Service Manager neil.bushell@marshallweb.co.uk

To book online and view our pricing options visit: marshallweb.co.uk/land-rover The Benefits of a Marshall Land Rover Service

� Land Rover Trained Technicians � Genuine Parts � Transparent Pricing � Castrol Engine oil � 1-year guarantee on parts & labour

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Marshall Land Rover Peterborough Mallory Rd, Boongate, Peterborough PE1 5AU Tel: 0844 411 9730

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W H AT’ S NEW T HIS MONT H

UpFront From the Riverford Kitchen

Relaxed travel with Shaws Coaches

At Riverford our aim is to make fresh, seasonal, organic food available to everyone. Three years ago we launched our Riverford Cooks campaign to inspire people to cook from scratch using a veg box. Our local Riverford cook, Diana Burke, is based at our farm in Sacrewell, Thornaugh.

Braised Sweetcorn with Lime and Chilli (serves four) Ingredients • Four corn cobs, cut into 3-4 cm pieces • About 75g butter • Two tablespoons olive oil • Two 5cm lengths of lemongrass (optional), bashed with your hand on the flat of a knife to bruise them • Two mild red chillies, deseeded and finely chopped • Zest and juice of a lime • Two tablespoons chopped coriander leaves • Sea salt and ground black pepper Heat the butter and oil in a large pan. Add the sweetcorn, lemongrass and chilli. Stir for two minutes. Add the lime zest and juice, with four tablespoons of water. Cover and cook for six to eight minutes, stirring every now and again until the sweetcorn is cooked. Keep an eye on the liquid and top up a little if needed. Season to taste and stir in the coriander to serve.

• Find more recipes at www.riverford.co.uk/sacrewell.

To order your Riverford box, call 01780 789700 www. riverford.org.uk/sacrewell

If you would like a day out or a short break without the hassle of motorway driving or expensive train fares, have a look at Shaws Coaches latest brochure.

This local company was recently a finalist in the Day Excursion Programme of the Year at the National Coach Awards - and you can see why. The programme includes special days such as the Call the Midwife tour of Chatham Historic Dockyard, including afternoon tea at the Commissioner’s House, or a visit to Windsor Castle which includes a private viewing of Queen Mary’s Dolls House.

There is a lunch cruise on the River Thames followed by a tour of the Houses of Parliament or a tour of the Morgan sports car factory and museum at Great Malvern. The London Theatre trips start from £49.50 to include coach travel and a top price show (and include drop off directly outside the theatre). New productions on sale include Dirty Dancing and From Here to Eternity, but you can also book for perennial favourites Les Miserables, War Horse and The Lion King.

Fares can start at as little as £10 per person for some trips, and there is a free seat for group bookings of 12. If you have tickets to an event, it’s worth looking into the ‘Fare Only’ deals. Shaws also run short breaks, all with their door to door service and including free holiday insurance. Destinations include the Lake District, Scotland and Lake Garda in Italy. There’s a choice of Christmas shopping weekends at home and abroad, and if you want to enjoy some spring sunshine, the Isles of Scilly are a popular choice.

We can vouch for the excellent service and friendly customer care offered

by Shaws. The trips would also make great gifts for relatives and friends.

• To find out more, email the reservations team on enquiries@ shawscoaches.co.uk or call on 01778 342224, or browse the new brochures on the website, www.shawscoaches.co.uk

Cross Keys Care Cross Keys Care is a new care service for Peterborough, brought to you

by Cross Keys Homes. As a trusted name, the aim is to provide a unique service to help individuals to live an independent life in their own home. A recent success story is Violet’s: Violet is 93 and lives alone.

Although she has a supportive family nearby, she wants to retain her independence and stay in her sheltered bungalow for as long as possible. Violet does as much as she can for herself, but she does need help with some things such as showering, putting cream on her legs, and making and changing her bed. She prefers not to ask her family to provide this support, willing as they are.

She used to receive care from

Pumpkin Day

another agency but found it unsatisfactory. “The carers came at all different times and very often too late to help me. I’d already be dressed and they’d turn up and then sit around because there was nothing to do, and I was still having to pay them,” says Violet. “I had received care from Fawzia in the past and when I learned she was working for Cross Keys, I requested her again.

Fawzia is never late!”

• If you would like to find out more about how Cross Keys Care can help you or a relative, call Val Stokes on 01733 396484 to discuss your requirements, or email val.stokes@ crosskeyhomes.co.uk or visit www. crosskeyshomes.co.uk/care

Saturday 26th October 11am-4pm Free family day out at Riverford on Sacrewell Farm

alolme

welc

visit www.riverford.co.uk/sacrewell or call 01780 789700 NENE VALLEY LIVING SEPTEMBER 2013

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Travelchoice week 14th - 22nd September

Party in the park

es k i b d e t Adap

Outdoor spin clas ses

BBQ

Hand cy cles

ered w o p l a d Pe stem sound sy

14th September 10am to 10pm at Ferry Meadows (Coney Meadows, near the Ferry Meadows cafe)

Travelchoice Week 2013 will be celebrating sustainable travel options across Peterborough with a week of events and activities.

The best thing...it’s FREE and open to everyone!

For information on all other activities during travelchoice week visit www.travelchoice.org.uk

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PE R SPE CT IVE S

Disappearing Women?

This month, the outspoken academic Germaine Greer comes to the Key Theatre to discuss her theory that as women age, they become less visible. Is it true? We asked some women in the Nene Valley region what they think. By Fiona Cumberpatch Germaine Greer

H

ow many women over 50 can you think of who present prime time TV programmes?

The weather? News programmes on the radio? Whatever you think of Germaine Greer and her politics, it would be hard to argue that the media has much time for the older woman. There is no female equivalent of the chundering, bad tempered Jeremy Paxman on Newsnight, or sixtysomething John Humphrys of Radio 4’s the Today programme. And what about the sports pages of national newspapers?

Isn’t it true that as Germaine Greer suggests, “the female most likely to be seen in the sports pages will be a horse?”

Rachel Parkin, Owner of Reba Boutique, Peterborough and Creative Director of the Balagan Group “We are certainly under-represented in most walks of life, but much of that has to do with the responsibilities of raising children. Are we invisible? Probably to any male under the age of 25, but as we all age we come to value more than outward appearances. There are legions of high profile women who’ve succeeded on their own merits so women who have the qualities that make them interesting people to be around will never become invisible. Women who’ve always relied on their physical attributes may well feel that they have become invisible but beauty really is only skin deep. It’s what is on the inside that has longevity and is what ultimately counts.

As with most things in this world, you are free to choose your own perspective, so while many of us will become wives and mothers, these are

not labels that define us any more than those of sister, daughter, or lover. If you have something of value to say and you say it clearly and distinctly, then you will be heard!”

Keely Mills, Project Manager at Eastern Angles Theatre Company, former Poet Laureate of Peterborough and host of An Evening with Keely Mills, September 26, 10pm at Chauffeur’s Cottage, Peterborough PE1 1YX. “I agree with Germaine that there’s a definite point when women are deemed no longer as interesting after reaching a certain age. I believe that it’s the fault of society. It’s perceived by the media that we prefer the much more glamorous or sexual side of the female rather than what she can actually do or think. So could it be that when looks fade, a woman’s voice fades too?

I tend to think so. At the moment, I use my art form to be visible, but there will become a point when, because of my age, I am no longer relevant. Does this come quicker to me because I am a woman? I am hoping the talk will help to answer these questions and there is no one better than Germaine to discuss it with.”

Shirley Clarkson, retired businesswoman and mother of Top Gear’s Jeremy Clarkson Do women become less visible as they get older? I mentioned this to a friend and her husband remarked, “I wish.” My daughter just said “rubbish.” I think women become what they want to become. If you don’t want to become invisible, make sure that you don’t. No good filling your face with Botox, and having

liposuction in order to get the young female lead. Go for the Dowager Duchess’s part and enjoy it. Personally speaking, I think it’s possibly a good thing that I’ve reached the invisible age….”

Kay Marsden, Events Manager at John Clare Cottage, Helpston I think it’s only true that women become invisible as they get older in certain circumstances. A great deal of the time, life is okay for the older woman. But many top jobs do seem just as difficult to achieve for women as they always have, particularly older women. I think women have to be assertive and able to deal with condescending behaviour to overcome the invisibility that seems to go with age. The younger generation of women will manage much better than my generation though. Tasks which were primarily seen as women’s work are luckily being shared by most couples today. Hopefully, this may lead to wider opportunities for women and perhaps even recognition of the work previously done solely by women. Older women have to overcome invisibility and, thankfully, I believe that many do exactly that.”

• Germaine Greer’s talk, The Disappearing Woman, is on September 25 at The Key Theatre, Peterborough, as part of the We Love Words Festival of Literature and Poetry.

Tickets are £15, concessions £12.50. For tickets, call 01733 207239 To see who else is performing, visit www.welovewords.org NENE VALLEY LIVING SEPTEMBER 2013

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FOOD & DR INK

Food News All the latest on local food and drink

Nene Valley Living

recommends The Red Lion, Warmington

T

he barbeque summer has been a treat, but as autumn approaches, salads and sausages lose their appeal and thoughts turn to more substantial fare. That’s why we headed to The Red Lion at Warmington one Sunday lunch time, as we’ve been hearing excellent reports about their traditional roasts and puddings.

We arrived for the second lunch sitting at 2pm to find the pub buzzing. The bar was full of people enjoying a drink, and every table in the dining room was occupied. The Red Lion has a great atmosphere: it’s partly down to the décor, with charmingly mismatched antique tables and chairs, fresh flowers on each table, linen napkins, a pine dresser full of vintage cups and saucers and cutlery and paintings and curios on the walls, but also because landlords Tim and Richard and their staff are so welcoming. We were dead set on a roast lunch: Carey chose the chicken breast, I opted for local lamb and Perry ordered the beef. Our meals arrived quickly, on warmed white china plates. Portions are generous, there were four or five thick slices of meat, a gravity defying Yorkshire pudding, plenty of gravy and two roast potatoes. A huge dish of piping hot vegetables arrived separately, and comprised a mountain of fluffy mash, broccoli, carrots and cabbage. The veg was fresh and cooked well (not soggy). We were offered mint and horse radish sauce, and extra gravy, and our excellent waiter brought us a jug of iced water and extra glasses as a matter of course. Carey was very impressed

with his meal, commenting especially on the creamy mash and flavoursome gravy. My lamb was melt in the mouth tender, and Perry’s beef, though rather well done, was still very good.

You can order a Sunday lunch veggie platter, consisting of fresh vegetables, roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding and veggie gravy, and there was also another vegetarian option, mushroom stroganoff.

We saved room for dessert, which includes all the British greats: bread and butter pudding, apple pie and custard, Bakewell tart, crumble and treacle tart. Chocoholic Carey had a rich chocolate torte, Perry chose chef’s Banoffee Pie and I had the treacle tart and vanilla ice cream. The desserts are well presented, hearty and taste delicious.

For me the treacle tart is the star: thin and a little bit chewy, with crisp pastry and a subtle gingery/citrus flavour.

The bill came to £53 (soft drinks only) for three, which we thought was reasonable. There is a good wine list, and a selection of local ales are served, including beer from the nearby Nene Valley Brewery. If you want traditional home cooked food in a quintessentially English village pub, with first rate service, this is your place.

Fiona Cumberpatch • The Red Lion, Peterborough Rd, Warmington PE8 6TN Tel: 01832 280362 www.theredlionwarmington.com Booking for Sunday lunch is recommended.

Tea at John Clare cottage, HELPSTON

If you enjoy meeting friends for coffee, lunch, or tea, and you don’t want to go to a pub, John Clare’s Cottage at Helpston is an ideal alternative. The cottage, which was the home of the poet in the 18th and early 19th century, is now a thriving centre where people can learn more about John Clare, his life and times. There is a pretty garden (the most recently developed part of this has been designed

by Chelsea gold medal award winner Adam Frost), with seating outside if the weather is fine. We visited one afternoon and tried the Clare Cottage Cream Tea. All the cakes and scones are baked on site by manager Janet Dykes or one of her team (Janet bakes an impressive 200 scones weekly). For £3.80 each, we had a large fruit scone with butter, jam and cream, and a pot of tea. The warm scones were deliciously light and airy (Janet’s secret ingredient is yoghurt) and tasted oven fresh. You could opt for a home made cheese scone and a bowl of soup (organic tomato and herb on the day we went), a Lincolnshire Poacher Ploughmans, quiche or jacket potato. Cakes included ginger and marmalade and a deep Bakewell tart. The café is proving extremely popular, with locals and visitors (lots of cyclists call in here). You can browse the book selection while you enjoy your meal, and the ambience is relaxed and friendly. Solo diners would find it very welcoming.

There is an admission charge if you wish to explore the cottage and gardens.

Summer opening: seven days a week, 10.30am – 4pm, last entry 3pm.

• John Clare Cottage, 12 Woodgate, Helpston, Peterborough PE6 7ED www.clarecottage.org

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21/8/13 14:02:06

FOOD & DR INK

A taste of Peru New to Peterborough, Peruvian pop-up restaurants are proving very popular. Sue Dobson talks to the couple behind them

P

op-up restaurants are a new concept for Peterborough and the Rico Peru Peruvian pop-up is a first. It’s the brainchild of Christian Castillo and his partner Kristina, who are planning to open a Peruvian restaurant in the city next year.

“We thought a monthly event could introduce Peterborough people to the exciting flavours of Peruvian food and, by offering a different menu each month, give us an idea of the most popular dishes,” he says.

Peruvian food has been billed by BBC Food and national newspapers as ‘the next big thing.’

The country is experiencing a gastronomic boom, boasting two restaurants in the world’s top 50 list; New York has picked up on the trend and four Peruvian restaurants have opened in London, with more on the horizon.

“It’s the combination of flavours, colours and healthy ingredients that make the dishes so delicious,” Christian enthuses. Influenced by indigenous culinary traditions and five centuries of Spanish, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, African and French immigration, Peru’s original and varied cuisine relies on fresh ingredients grown in the Andes mountains and Amazon rainforest, on the coastal plains and fished from the Pacific ocean. The variety is incredible. “There are over 2000 types of potatoes grown in Peru and 700 types of corn, though we don’t eat them all!” he adds with a smile.

The essential ingredient is the Peruvian chilli, of which there are five varieties with tastes quite different from their more fiery Indian and Asian cousins. Missing the tastes of home,

three years ago Christian and his sister Alison launched Rico Picante, a range of sauces based on old family recipes, using fresh chillies from the Amazon jungle and black mint from the Andes. They’ve proved a huge success, selling in Selfridges, Fortnum & Mason, Van Hage in Peterborough and as far afield as Singapore, Portugal, Ireland, Belgium and Canada. New cook-in sauces are about to be launched and Christian is supplying top London restaurants with the fragrant chillies.

The real taste of Peru As he already imports ingredients from his home country, Christian has a head start on the real taste of Peru, and Kristina knows all about cooking them. The couple met at a food festival in London when Kristina, originally from Lithuania, was head chef at Fratelli’s. It didn’t take long for Christian to move from Hertfordshire to Peterborough to be with her and she has since devoted her time to developing recipes for event catering and the hoped-for restaurant.

Both are passionate about food. When Christian was growing up, his mother ran a seafood restaurant in Lima and aged five Kristina was already preparing breakfast for the family in Vilnius. When Christian’s mother visited Peterborough, Kristina was keen to learn everything she could about Peruvian cooking and she’s looking forward to going to Lima at Christmas. “I can’t wait to show her all the wonderful fruits, vegetables and herbs that you never see in the UK,” Christian says with pride.

One dish that will be on every menu is ceviche, which probably originated in Peru 2,000 years ago and even has a national holiday in its honour (June 28). Based on fresh white fish marinated in lime juice and aji amarillo chilli, every family has their own recipe and there are countless variations. Kristina’s Rico Ceviche uses marinated sea bass, sliced red onion, sweet potato and the big kernels of white choclo corn.

Pop-up guests are given a taste of the popular pisco sour, a grape brandy cocktail that originated in Peru in the 1920s and, like ceviche, warrants its own public holiday (the first Saturday in February).

We joined the third Peruvian pop-up event on Peru’s national day, July 28. My Rico Ceviche was an exciting mix of flavours, as was the deliciously spicy tuna steak Anticucho served with the fine grains of quinoa. Robert was delighted with his Causa Rellena, a Peruvian potato, golden chilli and Andean black mint terrine topped with beetroot, and Seco de Cordero, a wonderful dish of lamb in coriander sauce. We both loved the cheesecake dessert with its topping of lucuma, a popular fruit in Peru but still unknown here. With a harmonious blend of taste and texture, each flavoursome dish was elegantly presented.

• To find out when and where the next Peruvian pop-up event will be held, and to book a table, visit www.ricoperu.co.uk or check out ricoperu’s Facebook page. A threecourse meal with a pisco sour cocktail costs £25 per person.

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FOOD & DR INK

Prime cuts

Sarah Lyon visits Katie Buncome, a young entrepreneur whose Oundle-based business, Mytton Meats, is really taking off

S

et to go to university to study medicine on a scholarship it was a work experience placement at Wimpole Hall Farm that changed the course of Katie Buncome’s life. Now 24 years old and with a BSc Honours degree in Land Management, topped up with extra study in breeding and genetics followed by a course in mechanics (useful if things break down) Katie is applying her skills to producing some of the best meat in the region.

So what is it that sets Mytton Meats apart from the rest? Having researched best feed practices with an animal nutritionist Katie and her partner Adrian created a high quality mineral-enriched feed for their animals. Katie excels on price too and goes on to say, “we would rather people could afford our meat; pay a little less and pay for good quality than sell for more and sell less. We sell our ducks £4-£5 a kilo cheaper than a butcher.” The duck breasts I see on Katie’s stall are fresh, large and plump and only cost £6 for two. Katie’s ducks are in high demand and popular with customers at the Snooty Fox, Lowick, The Kings Head, Apethorpe, Oundle Mill, Hambleton Hall and the Olive

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Branch in Clipsham.

And it’s not just Katie’s duck everyone is raving about. Local chefs and customers on the farmer’s markets are just as enthusiastic about her pork. Katie and Adrian rent land and farm buildings across the region; mainly Elton, Benefield and Fotheringhay. They have plans to breed their own animals in the future but for now their pigs are bought locally and are free range. They include Large Blacks, Tamworths, and Gloucester Old Spots and British Lop Cross Tamworths. The Large Blacks are a traditional local to East Anglia and Norfolk. “A long lean bacon pig with a darker meat and a slightly nuttier gamey flavour. The Old Spots are bred

by Adrian’s parents and the Tamworths are also bred locally,” says Katie. “We know they have all been bred with integrity, we rear them slowly and traditionally so they are a tender end product. If reared too quickly they will be too fatty, we would rather they be the right weight and take a little longer than the usual six months and finished correctly than rush the process.” There is a hint of nutmeg in Katie’s ‘Old English’ sausages. Perhaps this is the

reason that they are a best seller and so very popular.

Her sausages may sell well but it is Katie’s home produced goat meat that customers, ‘just can’t get enough of,’ says Katie. “People try it abroad and return home only to find that they cannot buy it anywhere. Goat is a truly healthy meat, more tender than lamb and it contains less fat than chicken,” Katie explains.

Katie is keen on cooking and offers recipes when customers purchase her produce. “I love cooking and having people around for dinner, says Katie. “It is the look on their faces when they say, ‘I really love your meat. That’s it, that’s what makes me happy and makes me want to continue doing what we are doing.”

• Meat boxes: £90 for a half pig, includes six joints, six packages of sausages and 24 chops.

Find Katie and Adrian of Mytton Meats at Oundle market every Thursday; Oundle Farmer’s market, 2nd Saturday in the month; Oakham Farmer’s market, 3rd Saturday in the month, Tel: 07706854326, www. myttonmeats.co.uk

NENE VALLEY LIVING SEPTEMBER 2013

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20/8/13 19:06:41 15/08/2013 20:52

B R I N G I N G L OCA L FOOD T O LIFE

An apple a day…

Enjoying a chilled glass of cider brewed in Stamford is a good way to enhance your day...

A

s we enjoy an Indian summer, a cold glass of cider is just the ticket. Happily, Stamford has its own cider – Jollydale – which is pressed and fermented just off West Street, not far from the Jolly Brewer. The man behind Jollydale is Simon Dale, who is also a horseshoe manufacturer (he is the proprietor of Pegasus Horseshoes, also based in Stamford) and the owner of Westside Health Club. Quite a combination! Simon has been making cider since 2002, when he started to pulp and press apples grown in his orchard at home in Woodnewton, Northamptonshire.

These pictures show what I found when I visited Jollydale not so long ago…

1

Apples, grown in Shropshire and the Fens, are put through the pulping machine in Stamford. The tipping device was designed and built

by Simon Dale.

2

Jollydale men Chris Sanders (left) and Keith Long are both from Stamford. They also work in Simon’s horseshoe factory, which is located just a few yards from the apple pressing area.

About the writer Matt Wright founded and runs Greatfoodmag.co.uk and Greatfoodclub.co.uk, two Leicestershirebased websites that celebrate and promote local food and drink.

His Great Food Club Handbook 2013/14 is out now.

3

After being pulped, the flesh is layered onto cloth between wooden panels. The panels are then squeezed by the crushing machine, which extracts the juice.

Join Matt’s food club – Great Food Club – free of charge and discover the very best local food and drink.

Members can enjoy special offers at over 80 handpicked independent pubs, restaurants, producers and farm shops www.greatfooodclub.co.uk/join

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4

The apple juice is siphoned off into fermentation vats where it is left to ferment for around six months before eventually being blended into Jollydale cider.

Waste apple flesh is compacted and fed to animals.

5

Simon’s Stamford horseshoe factory is next door to his cider-making plant.

Today you can buy bottles of Jollydale at a variety of places, including The Jolly Brewer, Stamford Garden Centre, Mama Liz’s and Peterborough-based online shop The Ale Room.

Make your own!

Inspired by my visit to Jollydale and by a cidermaking course I attended at the School of Artisan Food in Welbeck, last winter I pressed my own apple juice. I used apples grown on an allotment in Waterfurlong, Stamford. The juice has now fermented into cider that I’m currently enjoying. For my full step-by-step guide to making your own cider at home, visit www.greatfoodmag.co.uk and type “how to make your own artisan cider” into the search box located at the top right of the home page.

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HOME S

Homes & Interiors Notes

Good buys and inspiring ideas for your house and garden. By Fiona Cumberpatch SOFT FURNISHINGS BY CLAUDIA BAYLEY

CREATIVE CUSHIONS

Peterborough artist Charron Pugsley-Hill has translated her vibrant paintings to a range of home wares.

• These cushions cost £25 each and are available from Art in the Heart, Bridge Street, Peterborough or from www. charronpugsleyhill.com

A roman blind, a pair of great curtains or some cushions can transform a room scheme, but who do you get to make them?

Claudia Bayley, from Stamford, has recently set up a business making soft furnishings from home. “I started making blinds for friends just because I enjoyed it, and more and more people were asking me to help, so I have turned my passion into a business,” says Claudia. With a keen eye for colour and textiles, Claudia can source fabric, suggest a colour scheme, or work with clients’ own materials.

She can do home visits to measure windows, or she is happy to receive photos and measurements via email.

• For more information, or to discuss a project, call Claudia on 07876171063 or email claudia.bayley@btinternet.com

Fabric in ‘Pebbles’

by John Lewis

THE HEART OF NORTHANTS

These pretty wooden hearts are hand made in Oundle, using maps of the area.

• They cost £7.99 each and are available at Asha’s, The Bazaar, West Street, Oundle PE8 4EJ Tel: 01832 275605 www.ashas.net

NEW TERM, NEW LOOK

Send your children back to school with one of these smart insulated lunch bags.

• From £5 at Jollys Toys and Games, 28a High St, Thrapston Tel 01832 358915 or order from www.JollysToys.co.uk

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YOU CAN MAKE IT! There is nothing more satisfying than making something for your own home and what better time to sign up for a new skill than the start of the autumn term? Local company Green Olive is offering a wide variety of inspiring workshops at their new purpose built premises in Barnwell, near Oundle. “We are offering creative, inspiring workshop days aimed at all levels of ability, taught by experts within their field,” says Ema Corcoran of Green Olive. Here is a selection of forthcoming options: September 8 Crochet a daisy scarf September 15 Needle felt beads September 20 Make a willow bird September 21 Paper pom pom garlands September 22 Cross Stitch with ‘What Delia Did.’ Plus chance to win a book September 24 Lined and interlined curtains September 25 Roman blinds September 26 Making pelmets September 27 Cushions October courses will include aromatherapy blending, a Bach Flower Remedy introduction, bead jewellery making and how to create a patchwork union jack.

• To book your place, or for more info, call 01832 273209 or email ask@greenolive.com. Visit the website www. go-workshops.co.uk or the Facebook page, which includes regular course updates and additions.

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H OMES & INT E R IOR S

Boutique bed and breakfast Sam and Nick Read have combined luxury fittings with some clever Ebay finds to create a peaceful and stylish retreat at the Swallows Rest in the Northamptonshire village of Brigstock. Fiona Cumberpatch reports. Photos: Lesley Anne Churchill

T

he setting at the Swallows Rest could not be more picturesque: lush green fields full of grazing sheep, a winding country lane and a vineyard surround the newly opened Bed and Breakfast adjoining Sam and Nick Read’s home.

Inside, the rooms match the idyllic outlook.

Sophisticated yet a little bit rustic, the two bedrooms and their en suite bathrooms have been thoughtfully put together.

Sam and Nick’s backgrounds in the hotel industry meant that they approached their project with confidence. “We’ve gone for comfortable, super king beds with mattress toppers and Egyptian cotton bed linen,” says Sam. “Some of our guests have already told us it’s the best night’s sleep they’ve had for a long time!” The bathrooms, with under floor heating, are luxurious, and the extras, thick, fluffy towels and organic toiletries add to the atmosphere. In each room there is free wifi and a flat screen TV, and full length wardrobes fitted with hangers and a hairdryer.

The effect is sleek, but there are some quirky touches which mean that the interiors are not impersonal. The Willow Room has a stunning bathroom with a roll top bath, shimmery Fired Earth mosaic tiles and a walk in shower. But the room has been cleverly put together to combine luxury with canny buys. “The bath came from Ebay and we painted it ourselves,” says Sam. “The big mirror is also an Ebay find.

We knew we wanted an antique look so we have sourced our furniture and furnishings from a variety of places.”

The colour schemes are a calming blend of subtle neutrals enlivened with patterns and prints. The design ideas grew naturally.

Explains Sam: “When setting up the business we decided on the name of the B&B first as we had swallows nesting year after year above our wood store and we thought the name was appropriate and very restful. Since opening, we’ve been delighted to see the swallows back, having relocated above our front porch!

When I was searching through wallpapers, the Sanderson ‘Swallows’ wallpaper stood out. The colour and style design for both rooms followed on from there. We named the second room the ‘Willow’ room as we have a beautiful willow tree in the front garden and I searched everywhere to find the perfect wallpaper, which is from the Harlequin Bakari range.”

The bright and airy dining area is where Sam serves the Swallows Rest breakfast. On

24

“We’ve gone for comfortable, super king beds with mattress toppers and Egyptian cotton bed linen. Some of our guests have already told us it’s the best night’s sleep they’ve had for a long time!” weekdays, this is Continental and comprises cereals, daily home baked bread, croissants and pastries, fresh fruit salads and yoghurts, Nana’s Marmalade, locally made plum jam and Brigstock honey with freshly squeezed orange juice, cafetiere coffee or tea. At the weekends, guests can tuck into a Full English, which includes the Swallows Rest sausage, dry cured smoked back bacon from a local butcher, eggs from the chickens next door, organic chestnut mushrooms, vine tomatoes and special baked beans. Sam also bakes homemade cookies for guests to snack on. The garden has a terrace with a table and chairs, so visitors can relax or

have breakfast outside if the weather is fine.

“Guests say it is the little touches that they love about our B&B,” says Sam. “We’ve tried to anticipate our guests’ every need.” The formula is clearly working: after being open for just one month, she has already had glowing reviews on TripAdvisor and three repeat bookings!

• Prices at the Swallows Rest are per room per night and start from £60, including breakfast.

The Swallows Rest Bed and Breakfast.

28 Bridge Street, Brigstock, NN14 3ET Tel: 01536 370171. Info@theswallowsrest.co.uk www.theswallowsrest.co.uk

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Willow wallpaper

by Harlequin

Above: The Willow room is painted in Zoffany’s Half Harbour grey, and has lamps by John Lewis, a rug by Laura Ashley and an antique desk sourced from Ebay.

The chair is by online retailer www.made.com Right: The Swallows wallpaper is by Sanderson. The marble topped French tables are from Ebay. The white marble tiled en suite bathroom has a bath and power shower.

A visitor’s book full of glowing testimonials

Organic toiletries

Bottom right: The roll top bath was an Ebay find which Nick and Sam repainted in Fired Earth’s Storm paint. The mosaic tiles are also from Fired Earth and the silver mirror was from Ebay.

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A RTS & CR AFT S

We Love Ewe Charlotte Newby discovers a knitter’s paradise

There’s nothing frumpy about k nitting!

Rumour Roberts has it that Juli a , Scarle t Johan Sarah J sson, e s s ic aP Catherin e Zeta J arker, ones, U Thurma ma n, L Kate Mid ily Allen and dleton avid knit are all ters!

S

tep through the doors of Ewe Wool Shop on Cheyne Lane, Stamford and prepare to be inspired. This cosy little shop is stuffed from floor to ceiling with yarns of every weight, texture and colour imaginable. Rachel Parry Arch opened this haven for knitters in December 2012, taking over the shop that was formerly home to Maria’s haberdashery.

The business of yarns and knitting is nothing new to Rachel, who owned and ran a shop at Top Lodge, Fineshade Forest before moving it to Stamford. Prior to that, Rachel’s career was in a completely different field, working for 15 years in business training at various colleges across the country. But her passion is knitting and Rachel designs knitting patterns and makes the most incredibly beautiful scarves, cardigans, ponchos and cushion covers too.

Knitting is a great hobby; it’s relaxing, productive, it can be sociable if you get together with friends to do it (knit and natter) - and doesn’t take up much room, just a bag on your sofa. The yarns available today are so varied, with merino, cashmere, silk, cotton, angora - the list goes on - and it means you can create a unique item that you just wouldn’t be able to get on the high street. Rachel and her team are very good at helping with projects and selecting the right wool for your work.

If you’re starting out, Rachel organises knitting and crocheting workshops that are held at the shop. Knitwear designer, Debbie Abrahams is running a ‘Design Your Own Blanket’ workshop on 22nd September, that’s suitable for knitters with some experience; email the shop for details: i_love_ewe@ymail.com Learn to knit and crochet workshops will be running throughout the year; please email to register your interest.

WHAT CAN YOU BUY? • The list is endless. Rachel stocks well-known brands such as King Cole (£1.95-£5.45 a roll) and Patons, one of the oldest brands around (from 85p-£4.10).

• Rowan is a fashionable brand that‘s good quality and uses natural fibres and mixes (£4.25 for cotton - £18 for mohair and silk).

• You’ll also find Debbie Bliss, a very popular label that’s not widely available. It comes in selfstripe, and in bright warm colours, and there’s a very popular 100% silk yarn (£9.95), as well as 100% merino (£5.50) and ‘cashmerino’ for making exquisitely soft baby items (£5.50).

• If you like natural yarns, Japanese brand Noro produces luxury hand-dyed yam wool, and there are angora, wool and silk mixes too (£6.95-£15.50).

• There are felt and fabric kits containing all you need to create soft animals (£9.99-£14.99), tapestry and cross-stitch kits for children and adults (£4.00-£65.00), plus buttons and ribbons, needles and crochet hooks.

• For a limited time, Rachel is even giving away her own scarf, poncho and cushion cover patterns, suitable for intermediate and skilled knitters with wool purchases; an offer not to miss!

• Rachel is brilliant at sourcing new and interesting products and hopes soon to stock a range of wools for the increasingly popular craft of needle felting.

• Ewe Wool Shop, 17c St Mary’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DG, 01780 765351, www.i-love-ewe.com (the start of Cheyne Lane).

A Good Yarn Local premium knitwear designer Libby Summers has been designing and manufacturing hand-knitted goods in the UK since 2010. This summer, the new ‘Libby Summers Ltd’ brand introduces her own collection of yarns, produced by a family-owned wool farming business in Peru. The business helped to support a project to educate the children of the Quechuan alpaca shepherds, a tribe that’s close to Libby’s heart as she studied it at university.

It was Libby’s passion for natural products and individual, handmade goods that inspired her to start her yarn and knitting business in the early 2000s. Her hand knitted items have been sold in John Lewis and have featured in several high profile publications.

Libby’s website, www.libbysummers.co.uk launched in June and features beautiful, vibrantly coloured yarns (Libby Summers ‘Chunky’ at £4.50/50g, ‘Fine Aran’ at £5.75/50g), make-it-yourself kits (including her distinctive soft rabbits), and her signature handmade knitted items. You will also find her yarn and kits in Ewe Wool Shop. Libby will be hosting open days at her studio workshop where people can view the yarn and pattern collection. Details will be posted on the website.

• Libby Summers, www.libbysummers.co.uk NENE VALLEY LIVING SEPTEMBER 2013

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HEA LTH & BE AUT Y

Health & Beauty Notes All the latest news on local health and beauty businesses. By Bridget Steele

THE BOWEN TECHNIQUE AVAILABLE IN PETERBOROUGH The Bowen Technique is a complementary therapy that uses gentle, very precise movements to stimulate and re-align muscles to help relieve pain, improve mobility and help people to feel re-energised.

The therapy, which was developed in the 1950s by Australian Tom Bowen, is probably most commonly used to treat back and shoulder pain and headaches, and it is gentle enough to be carried out on the tiniest baby or the most frail of adults.

Helen Perkins is a Bowen practitioner and reflexologist with over 25 years experience running a successful clinical practice in Peterborough. After three years of intensive training and study she has now received her Bowtech Instructor accreditation from the Bowen Academy of Australia, Helen now plans to teach the Bowen Technique and will be running introductory sessions and a beginners’ module in Peterborough later this year.

• Details will be available shortly on Helen’s website www.helenperkins.com or she can be contacted on 01733 555476; e-mail info@helenperkins.com

LCN PEDIQUE TREATMENT AT NATURAL NAILS If you have ever suffered a bump or trauma to a toe nail you will know how long it takes to heal, often leaving a bruised and unsightly nail for months on end. Keen to have pretty toe nails to go with my post holiday tan, I sought the advice of Tracy at Natural Nails in Newborough who suggested I visit for an LCN Pedique pedicure treatment which is a unique corrective Pedicure treatment to support and maintain healthy nails and feet.

My therapist Jo Gavaghan started the treatment by filing nails down and pushing the cuticles back, before painting them with a bonding solution which helps the special gel to stick. The gel she used was specially designed for toe nails and includes a slow release anti fungal and anti-mycotic agent. It is quite different from the gel used on finger nails and is ideal for people needing toe nail protection when playing sport, as it absorbs pressure to prevent damage. It is deal for men too - although they may not want the pretty coloured polishes!

Two coats of gel are applied and after each coat a UV light is used to set the gel - and the Pedique was finished off with a foot file and a massage with a refreshing moisturiser. My toe nails look glossy and there is no sign of a bruised toe nail - the treatment lasts up to six weeks and took about an hour.

• The Pedique treatment is £38. For more information contact Natural Nails 42-46 School Road, Newborough, Peterborough PE6 7RG Tel: 01733 810071 www.naturalnailsandbeauty.co.uk

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ENVIRON PRODUCTS AND TREATMENTS AT ELYSIA In addition to the popular Caci Facials at Elysia in Tansor, Lisa has now introduced a new system to her salon called Environ which includes step by step tailor made treatments for your skin and Active vitamin facials, where nourishing vitamin A products are driven deeply into the lower layers of the skin with a special machine which uses sound waves and small electrical pulses.

I visited the salon for a taster session, which started with a skin analysis where photographs of my face were taken in a scanner and the results are analysed. This was quite disturbing to see sun and dehydration damage. However, it does help the therapist to decide the areas which should be targeted, and which products should be used to address the damage and nourish the skin.

The facial itself was relaxing even though the therapist used a machine, the movements were gentle and not at all uncomfortable.

I really enjoyed the mask which is applied to the face as a soft cream and within minutes it sets feeling cool and refreshing on my face.

My skin was then moisturised and treated with Environ moisturiser and a UVA skin protection cream. To get the best results I would need to have a regular treatment and use the Environ skin care system.

• For more information contact Lisa at Elysia Health and Beauty, Tansor, Oundle Tel: 01832 226328 www.elysiahealthandbeauty.com

NENE VALLEY LIVING SEPTEMBER 2013

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he way in which your skin responds to ageing is due, in part , to your genetic make up. But how you treat your skin has a massive impact on the visible signs. Exposure to sun, environmental elements such as air pollution and toxins in food, lifestyle (lack of sleep, stress, smoking and alcohol) all contribute to visible signs of ageing. YOU CAN control these factors and make a difference to your skin.

THE CORNERSTONE OF ENVIRON IS VITAMIN A. Extensive scientific research shows that Vitamin A has a corrective effect on the skin, smoothing it and softening. Vitamin A most importantly, normalizes the function of the skin and promotes healthy collagen and elastin and improves the skins natural moisture, leading to healthy, younger looking skin.

As well as Vitamin A the range contains advanced peptides including Matrixyl 300, Dermaxyl and Argereline.

The facials offered incorporate soundwaves by the Ionzyme DFII machine. These treatments effectively treat dehydrated skin, pigmentation concerns and ageing. Results are visible after one treatment. To treat specific concerns a course of treatments is recommended.

• For more information call ELYSIAHEALTH AND BEAUTY, TANSOR, OUNDLE 01832 226328 OR 07879 620196 www.elysiahealthandbeauty.com

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Advertisement Feature

PURE HEALTH AND BEAUTY NOTES Jayne Reading’s peaceful yet thriving salon in Glapthorn offers the latest products and beauty treatments to deliver glowing, youthful and blemish-free looks to a growing number of clients

INTRODUCING THALGO Experts in marine skincare and spa therapies for almost 50 years, French company THALGO draws on the riches of the ocean to develop exceptional professional beauty treatments and skincare products. Pure Health & Beauty is now offering these treatments and products, which offer powerful healing, revitalising and rebalancing properties harnessed from the sea, for every kind of skin.

“THALGO treatments are deeply relaxing,” explains Jayne Reading. “All the products are warmed before use, even the towels.” The Purity Ritual Express Facial, for example, begins with a relaxing ‘Discovery of the Sea’ welcoming massage and cleansing ritual. A hydrating mask is applied, PURE tailored to your skin type. While it acts on the skin, a soothing hand and arm HEALTH massage is carried out. When the mask & BEAUTY is removed, THALGO moisturiser and eye cream is applied, leaving your skin RECOMMENDS glowing and your body relaxed.

A huge range of THALGO products are offered at Pure Health & Beauty, whether your concerns are hydration, re-balance or anti-ageing. Best sellers are currently the BB Cream, which helps to restore your skin’s healthy glow, and the Hyaluronic Filler, with seaweed extracts, which fills and plumps fine wrinkles.

Pop into the salon to try this delicately fragranced, paraben-free, mineral oil-free and propylene glycol free range for yourself, either through a treatment, or by purchasing the products. Jayne and her team are always happy to give advice and guidance.

• Pure Health & Beauty officially launches the THALGO range on Wednesday 25 September.

You can book an appointment with a THALGO specialist, and receive a full consultation and skin analysis, a 30 minute facial and a ‘prescription’ for products for your skin. The facial costs £25 but this can be redeemed against the purchase of any THALGO products.

There’s limited space, so ring and book your appointment today! Tel: 01832 272310

EMMA JOINS THE TEAM Due to growing demand, Jayne Reading and therapist Becky Postlethwaite have been joined by a new member of staff.

Emma Hedges, 26, has recently joined the Pure team. As an introductory offer, if you book a facial, manicure, pedicure, wax, or lash or brow treatment with Emma and quote Nene Valley Living, you will receive 20 per cent off your first treatment!

ANTI-AGEING TREATMENTS Jayne Reading and her colleagues are experts in anti-ageing treatments. One of their most popular options is CACI Ultra facial toning and skin rejuvenation which they have now been offering for five years. The salon’s CACI ultra machine delivers a non surgical facelift, via a unique system which combines ultrasound, micro current, light therapy and ultrasonic peeling. You will see results after one session, but a course is recommended for longer lasting results. As well as treating more mature skins, it can also be effective for calming acne and reducing acne scars, as well as stretch marks and pigmentation.

Pure Health & Beauty are also experienced at offering Advanced Cosmetic Procedures. This enables the removal of small imperfections which often come with age, such as skin tags, blood spots, thread veins, moles, warts, millia (tiny white spots on the skin) and age spots. “Not many GPs will do these procedures on the NHS now,” says Jayne. “We offer a free consultation, and our system of Advanced Electrolysis is very safe.” It is a quick, painless process and healing is fast.

ALL ROUND SERVICE Pure Health & Beauty is set in a converted barn, half a mile from Oundle. It is spacious, clean and warm, with ample free parking. As well as the treatments mentioned on this page, the salon offers Swedish body massage, hot stone therapy, reflexology, manicures and pedicures.

Why not make your treatment extra special with a specially priced ‘Add On.’ If you come in for a facial, for example, add a foot file and mask for just £5, an eyebrow tint for £5 or a head massage for £5. For more details, or to book your appointment, call 01832 272310 • Pure Health & Beauty, The Old Stables, Church Farm, Main Street, Glapthorn, Oundle PE8 5BE Tel: 01832 272310 or 07807 879459. E: pure@farming.co.uk

This lifting effect foundation comes in five shades, including ones to suit Asian and black skins. Natural and nourishing, with an anti-ageing effect, it’s the salon’s number one best seller. £43 for a 30ml dispenser.

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DAY S O UT

Discover N1C Sue Dobson suggests a walk around King’s Cross and St Pancras, taking in history, tradition and London’s most exciting new development that even boasts its own postcode!

Above: London’s most exciting building site Left: Granary Square, the heart of the new NC1 development

F

Northern Hotel, once stored Lincolnshire wheat Christian worship here since the 4th century rom farms, fields and Georgian health spas for London bakers. Now it is home to Central and while the church is now largely Victorian, to a Victorian industrial heartland, freight St Martin’s College of Art and Design, two it has a 6th-century altar stone and Roman and transport hub, King’s Cross has seen many restaurants and the King’s Cross Visitor Centre fragments in its fabric. changes but probably none as exciting as the where you can pick up information about the In the peaceful, tree-shaded gardens of its current building spree. area’s history, future development and the former churchyard, Frankenstein author Mary In decline for decades, the 67 acres north variety of current pop-up events, such as the Godwin secretly met her lover and future of King’s Cross station is being transformed summer’s roller skating rink, floating cinema husband, the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley and with glittering high-rise homes and offices, and art installations. At the back of the building, it was author Thomas Hardy, then a young shops, galleries, cultural venues, cafés, bars seek out Global Generation’s Skip Garden, a architect, who oversaw the excavation of and restaurants. Restored and refurbished moveable vegetable garden that supplies fruit the cemetery when the Midland Railway was Victorian buildings and heritage structures will and vegetables to local restaurants. extended to a new terminus at St Pancras. Look sit alongside the modern steel and glass, amid When you’ve had your fill of Granary Square, for the Hardy Tree ringed with a collection of public spaces incorporating 10 new parks and go left on the towpath alongside the Regent’s headstones. squares. The area even has its own brand new Canal and up the stairs at the first bridge, Passing the celebrated architect Sir John postcode, N1C. crossing the road to visit King’s Place (90 York Soane’s family mausoleum, which inspired Sir From the new piazza in front of King’s Cross Way). It’s London’s newest concert venue, Giles Gilbert Scott’s iconic design for the red station, turn right onto Euston Road, passing with two state-of-the-art halls designed for telephone box, walk down the steps by the Sir George Gilbert Scott’s fairytale façade of the Hobson’s Conduit classical, pop, folk, jazz, film and spoken word Coroner’s Court, turning right into Camley St Pancras Renaissance hotel (its spectacular, events, houses two art galleries, a café, bar and Street and through its road tunnel under the exquisitely restored interior well worth the restaurant, and The Guardian and Observer railway lines. Then the Camley Street Natural excuse of stylish coffee break) to reach The newspapers have their offices there.

Park beckons.

British Library.

Walk through to the back of the building, This pocket nature reserve alongside the As well as being a heaven for book lovers, pausing along the way to collect info on the Regent’s Canal was created on the site of an old the British Library hosts some extraordinary amazing array of concerts and events on offer railway coal yard. Managed by London Wildlife treasures, among them the Magna Carta, the at affordable prices, and out on to the terrace Trust and cared for by enthusiastic volunteers, Gutenberg Bible, illuminated medieval and The Orchard, Grantchester for a view of narrow boats lined up in the the little green jungle features such key wildlife Renaissance manuscripts, Leonardo da Vinci Battlebridge Basin. From here you can see the habitats as grassland, woodland, wetland and a notebook sketches, Shakespeare’s first folio, London Canal Museum, your next destination, floating forest garden.

Nelson’s battle plan for Trafalgar, Handel music reached by turning left off York Way into At the end of Camley Street go left up Goods scores and some of the world’s rarest and most Wharfdale Road and left again at New Wharf Way and you’ll see the pedestrian bridge across significant postage stamps. What’s more, entry Road. the Regents Canal into Granary Square, where to the permanent galleries is free.

The London Canal Museum (open Tuesday to the sweep of over 1000 playful fountains Changing exhibitions are always interesting.

Sunday, 10am to last admission 4pm, entrance attracts small children (and their parents) on Currently (until mid-September) there’s the charge) is a fascinating place that tells the story hot days and the canal side steps have been colourful and thought-provoking Propaganda: of London’s busy waterways, their cargoes, turfed for a summery look. To your right, King’s Power and Persuasion (admission charge) and the lives of the people who lived afloat and Boulevard hosts KERB, presenting some of Poetry in Sound: The Music of Benjamin Britten the horses that pulled their boats. Peer down London’s best street food between 11am and (free). a huge Victorian ice well, squeeze into the tiny 2.30pm on Tuesdays to Fridays.

Back on Euston Road, turn left and walk cabin of a boat where whole families once lived Granary Square is at the heart of N1C. The up Midland Road alongside St Pancras and view films, maps and memorabilia. York Granary Building, designed by the architect International and its Eurostar trains, to visit Way will return you to King’s Cross station. of King’s Cross station and the elegant Great St Pancras Old Church. There’s been a site of

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King’s Cross underground and overground station, the restored Great Northern Hotel, St Pancras station and the St Pancras Renaissance hotel

Over 1000 jets, each one individually coloured so they look spectacular at night, rise from the old canal basin outside the Granary Building. The fountains are a big hit with young children on hot summer days

Right: Harry Potter fans gather to be photographed against Platform 93/4 Left: Follow the sign

Right: London Canal Museum explores the history of the canals that made the Industrial Revolution possible Left: A moveable skip garden provides fruit and vegetables to local restaurants

Two great railway hotels are restored

PITSTOPS Leave King’s Cross station through the back of the soaring concourse near platforms 9 to 11, passing the Harry Potter corner where fans line up to be photographed alongside Platform 93/4, and walk down London’s newest street, King’s Boulevard to discover tempting street food (Tuesday to Friday between 11 and 2.30). Cross the canal bridge to Granary Square where Caravan and The Grain Store bistro both have outdoor seating. Go right on Goods Way for The Filling Station and the canal side terrace at Shrimpy’s diner, or continue to King’s Place where the Green & Fortune Café offers great cakes and the waterfront Rotunda restaurant has canal boat views. Both serve good British food sourced from their own farm.

When the Great Northern Hotel opened in 1854 it stood at the heart of London’s revolutionary new age of steam, a glamorous and stylish point of departure. Close by, the lavish Midland Grand (now the St Pancras Renaissance), inspired by the Victorian gothic Houses of Parliament, received its first guests in 1873. In their heyday they were the talk of the town, attracting celebrities from around the world.

Years of painstaking renovation have restored both hotels to glory. They sit alongside the eye-pleasing facelifts given to King’s Cross and St Pancras railway stations and their bars and restaurants invite travellers to step into the elegant world of the golden age of rail.

Events in September 7 KERB Saturday street food market 13-15 King’s Place Festival: over 100 eclectic events involving music and the arts 21-22 Open House, behind-the-scenes at King’s Cross, free 28-29 King’s Cross Journeys two-day family festival, free visit www.kingscrossevents.co.uk for details

Climb aboard the tiny living quarters of a narrowboat and learn about the way of life on the canals

King’s Cross stunning new concourse

Take a guided tour British Library: Monday to Saturday, 10.30am and 3pm; Sunday 11.30 and 3pm. £8/£6.50 concessions. www.bl.uk St Pancras Renaissance hotel, daily, £20.

Tel: 020 7841 3540 The King’s Cross Business Partnership offers a range of free walking tours in the area.

For how to book, see the website www.kingscrossandstpancras.com

Useful websites www.kingscross.co.uk www.kingscrossandstpancras.com www.kingsplace.co.uk www.kerbfood.com/kings-cross/ www.bl.uk www.canalmuseum.org.uk NENE VALLEY LIVING SEPTEMBER 2013

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Friday 20th September 2013

The Bull Hotel Westgate • Peterborough

BULL HOTEL

Wedding Open Day & Evening We s t g a t e, Pe t e r b o ro u g h , P E 1 1 R B, T: 0 1 7 3 3 5 6 1 3 6 4

Sunday 22nd September 11am - 4pm Monday 23rd September 6pm - 8.30pm Free Entry

Bucks Fizz & Canapés on arrival

The greatest rock and pop stars of the past and present all on one stage!

Includes a 2 course meal followed by the Tribute Show & Disco until 1.00am

£28.00 per person

Please call 01733 561364 to book www.peelhotels.com .co.uk

This is an exclusive opportunity to visit the Bull Hotel and view our beautiful civil ceremony rooms and function suites set up and decorated for a wedding reception.

Come along and talk to our Wedding Co ordinators about your special day, whether you’re looking for a more intimate celebration for close friends and family, or a much larger gathering, and see how the Bull Hotel can suit your needs.

Also if you are looking to organize a Ball, Private Dinner, Anniversary or similar event in the near future, then please do come along as this is a great opportunity to view our facilities.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Bull Hotel www.peelhotels.co.uk eve n t s @ bu l l - h o t e l - p e t e r b o ro u g h . c o m

info@bull-hotel-peterborough.com

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PE R SPE CT IVE S

Maintenance manager Howard Vacca at the old entrance to The Mansion House, and by the Wakeford Room.

Right: Duty manager Carrera O’Neill prepares the bed in the Wakeford Suite, now strictly for bona fide honeymooners.

A load of old Bull?

Not a bit of it, Peterborough’s central hotel has a rich history. Having to ‘close’ once a year because of an ancient law, the scene of a national scandal involving a clergyman, and the city’s MP who lived here and famously got lost in the mist – it’s all part of the fascinating past of The Bull Hotel.

Jonathan Craymer reports

V

isitors to Peterborough have plenty of choice when it comes to hotels, but those looking for a real sense of history would be hard pressed to find a better place to rest their heads than the city’s Bull Hotel. The original building fronting on to Westgate dates back to the 17th century. Part of this (or perhaps according to old pictures, the building immediately adjacent, where other shops including Shrives the chemist are now sited) was known as The Mansion House, at one time home to Matthew Wyldebore, twice elected MP for the city (176874). The door to what may have been The Mansion House or its replacement is still there.

Wyldebore famously got lost in mist on what was then Peterborough Common, but was guided through the swirling gloom by the bells of St John’s church. He was so grateful to the church and its ringers for their unknowing role in his deliverance, he bequeathed a sum of money to pay for a peal of bells at the rate of 10 shillings ‘per rope’ and a pound for a sermon (according to the St John’s website – http:// peterborough-stjohns.org.uk/towerbells.htm) to mark the anniversary of his death. Wyldebore is also remembered by an impressive plaque in the church’s Lady Chapel, and the ringers continue to celebrate “Wyldebore day” on 15th March most years.

The Bull featured in the story of a clergyman, Canon John Wakeford of Lincoln Cathedral,

who shocked the nation after being accused of staying not once, but twice with a young lady at the hotel in March and April 1920. He was found guilty of adultery by a court in Lincoln, but much of the evidence against him seemed upon further examination to be a little flaky.

The accused Wakeford (throughout his life a controversial figure) was never stripped of his holy orders and spent the rest of his life impoverished by legal costs, which bankrupted him in 1924, as he campaigned to prove his innocence. He died at Barming Heath Asylum, Maidstone in 1930.

Make what you will of the fact that the Bull’s ‘Wakeford Suite’, AKA room 185, is today the hotel’s beautifully appointed bridal suite. There’s also a Wakeford Room used for conferences.

The only AA rated four star hotel in the city centre, the original building only boasted eight guest rooms. In 1901 extra rooms were added, and in 1960-61 a major extension was built at the back giving a total of 118 bedrooms. Even this extension has its own story, having to be built on stilts, as the ground beneath was the site of an ancient burial ground. The Bull also has a recently-added seven-roomed conference centre above shops next door.

“It’s a challenge looking after a lovely old building like this,” says maintenance manager Howard Vacca with undisguised affection.

“There are constant reminders of the building’s

past - as recently as 2007 we found and removed remains of straw originally used for insulating the top bedrooms in the old part”.

Originally what is now the front entrance and reception formed an open courtyard, used by farmers along with their livestock to access the nearby cattle market. According to Howard, under a 16th century law, farmers would still have the right to drive cattle and other animals through the hotel, unless it ‘closes’ once a year.

“I don’t suppose anyone wants to enforce this, but just in case, we lock the front and back doors every 27th December. Guests continue staying with us, but staff must let them in and out.”

In more modern times, particularly when the Broadway Theatre was open, stars such as Billy Connolly, Jools Holland, Frank Skinner and Leslie Grantham graced The Bull with their custom.

Finally there remains the unsolved mystery of a woman’s photograph hidden inside the back of a painting, which fell off the wall a few years ago, necessitating the fitting of new glass.

Howard explains: “The Peterborough Telegraph published the picture but to this day we still have no idea who she was. I’d love someone to tell me”.

• The Bull Hotel, Westgate, Peterborough Tel: 01733 561364 Web: www.peelhotels. co.uk/hotels/bull-hotel-peterboroughcambridgeshire-england/ and www.peterborobullhotel.com/ NENE VALLEY LIVING SEPTEMBER 2013

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PE R SPE CT IVE S

When there’s trouble at work If you think you’ve been treated unfairly by your employer, you can make a claim to an employment tribunal. But the process is about to change, with the introduction of fees in some circumstances.

Emma Carter of Hegarty LLP explains

W

hen an employee thinks they have been treated unfairly by their employer or their employer has broken the law and the matter cannot be resolved internally, they may look to starting a claim in the Employment Tribunals.

Employment Tribunals hear many claims including cases about unfair dismissal, unpaid wages and discrimination.

It is important that employees obtain information about their legal rights as soon as possible as many claims have to be lodged at the Employment Tribunal within certain time limits (usually within three months from the employment ending or the problem that they are complaining about). Often, employees will have tried to resolve the dispute by speaking to their employer or using internal grievance procedures or using ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service).

Last year, over 185,000 claims were accepted

by Employment Tribunals. Of these, over 30% were unfair dismissal, breach of contract and redundancy. The Government set out in 2011 that they would introduce legislation so that individuals making complaints would pay a contribution towards the £74 million it costs to run the Employment Tribunal system.

From 29th July 2013, all individuals making claims to an Employment Tribunal may have to pay a fee for starting their claim and a further fee when their claim goes to a hearing. If individuals do not pay the fees where required, they will not be able to make a claim. The fee

can be paid online or by cheque or postal order, if the claim is posted.

Different fees There are two sets of fees depending on the type of claim being made by an individual. In “Type A” claims which include unpaid wages, redundancy pay, holiday pay, equal pay and notice pay, individuals will have to pay £160 as an Issue Fee to start the claim and a further £230 prior to a hearing date. In more complicated claims, which are termed “Type B” claims, such as unfair dismissal, whistle blowing and discrimination, an individual will have to pay £250 as an Issue Fee and £950 prior to the hearing.

Individuals will only have to pay one fee for their claim even if they are bringing a number of complaints. For example, if an individual is making a claim of unfair dismissal, discrimination and unpaid wages, they would only have to pay the Type B fees of £250 and £950. There are additionally separate fees for claims being made by several claimants, for example, in large-scale redundancy situations.

Anyone who pays a fee and is successful in their case can go on to apply to have their fees paid by the employer and the judge may order this takes place.

There is a fee remission system in place which will enable those individuals on a low income to avoid the fees or pay reduced fees.

For example, if the individual is in receipt of

Universal Credit, Income based Employment and Support Allowance or Working Tax Credit, they will not have to pay a fee. Those on a low income may avoid the fees depending on their household income and number of dependents.

Examining the options It may take many months before a case is heard by an Employment Tribunal. It can be useful for an individual to go to one of the local Tribunals to view a hearing prior to attending their own. If an individual decides at any stage to withdraw their claim they can simply write to the Tribunal saying they wish to do so. Often an individual will agree a settlement with their employer through ACAS or directly and in this case, the claim is automatically withdrawn from the Tribunal and there is no need to go a hearing.

Employers may seek to put pressure on an individual to withdraw claims and threaten to pursue them for payment of their legal fees.

It can be stressful making a complaint to an Employment Tribunal and dealing with the Tribunal system and legal or personnel advisors acting for employers. However, many people run their own successful Tribunal claims. You may wish to consider seeking legal advice or contacting your local CAB or ACAS to discuss starting an Employment Tribunal claim or advice on running an existing claim.

• For further advice contact Emma at Hegarty LLP on 01733 295608 or emma.carter@hegarty.co.uk NENE VALLEY LIVING SEPTEMBER 2013

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Elli Dean

PHOTOGRAPHY “Combining a natural and relaxed approach with attention to the smallest details, resulting in beautiful photos that capture the essence of your day as it was.”

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Anglia Co-operative Help make a Great dream come true ANGLIA Co-operative is throwing its weight behind a £1 million fundraising drive for one of Europe’s largest wildlife restoration projects.

The Wildlife Trust BCN must hit a sevenfigure target by June 2014 to safeguard £1.8m of Heritage Lottery Fund grants for The Great Fen project.

And spearheading Anglia Co-operative’s support of the project – to re-create 14 square miles of fenland landscape between Peterborough and Huntingdon that will benefit people and wildlife – is the society’s chief operating executive, Andy Simpson.

He has pledged a full year of volunteering to make his business skills available to the project, which is centred on Ramsey Heights, 12 miles outside Peterborough.

Mr Simpson said: “Given its importance and the amount of money that needs to be raised, I will give my personal support to it and my volunteering.”

In addition Anglia Co-operative will add its fundraising muscle to the cause. Its store at Ramsey has already contributed part of the proceeds from a recent fun day which raised £1,010, to be shared between The Great Fen and the Ramsey Walled Garden.

The Peterborough-based retail co-operative is a staunch supporter of wildlife projects, raising over £30,000 to support a variety of activities from special nature activity groups for children to promoting beekeeping across our business area.

In addition, its stores have raised around

Above: an artist’s impression of the historical extent of the East Anglian Fens. The desire to re-create the fens landscape is the inspiration behind the overall dream. Illustration by Richard Allen

£90,000 for all sorts of worthy causes in their communities and the Anglia Co-operative Community Fund (ACCF) has made charitable donations totalling over £800,000 over the past 25 years or so.

The Great Fen – a long-term project collaboration with The Wildlife Trust BCN and partners – started 10 years ago.

Already at Ramsey Heights, Holme Fen near Peterborough and Woodwalton Fen in the north-west of Cambridgeshire there is much for visitors to see and enjoy – like rare insects, the kingfisher and marsh harrier,

nightingales, woodpeckers and many other types of wildlife.

As more land is acquired the dream to provide a haven for wildlife previously lost to the fens will become a reality. In addition there will be so many new opportunities for leisure and education – including walkways, cycle routes and bridleways.

Mr Simpson said: “The Great Fen will be a fantastic legacy to bequeath to future generations – creating something like the Norfolk Broads on our doorstep, with so many benefits for wildlife and visitors.”

Help us If you want to join Anglia Co-operative in its efforts for the Great Fen, e-mail Mr Simpson at andy.simpson@arcs.co.uk with details of how you can help.

If you would like to donate to the Great Fen appeal, visit www.wildlifebcn.org/appeals

Above a water vole, harrier and female marsh harrier; examples of the wildlife that would thrive in The Great Fen

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Abacus Tutoring Academy Whether your child is preparing for SATS, GCSEs or A-levels, we can help with preparation to increase knowledge, confidence and examination technique.

Our experienced teachers can Regular weekly help to improve confidence lessons and standards of work for KS1, KS2, KS3, GCSE, A Level children of all abilities and ages.

Primary Secondary Numeracy Maths We help children at primary school as well as Key Stage 3 Reasoning English Literacy Physics (when they are laying the Biology foundation for GCSE studies). Science 11+ Chemistry Our GCSE classes will help Secondary entrance with all types of syllabus.

A-level students appreciate Summer holiday Easter revision help with exam technique as crammer for revision for well as the purely academic GCSE and A-level side of their course.

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Does your dentist have time to treat you as an individual?

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You owe it to yourself to be treated as an individual. www.peterboroughdentist.co.uk/herlington

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HEA LTH & BE AUT Y

Fitzwilliam Cosmetic The Fitzwilliam Hospital is one of Cambridgeshire’s leading private hospitals, with an excellent reputation for delivering high quality healthcare treatments and services

T

he Fitzwilliam has been offering cosmetic surgery procedures successfully for many years, and have recently added a number of minimally invasive procedures that can still make a significant difference to the way you look and feel, but with only minor inconvenience.

Two Stitch Facelift

under local anaesthetic. Recovery times are also exceptionally low; being about a week.

The procedure has been available in America since 2009, with several prominent personalities having already successfully taken the plunge.

The Fitzwilliam Hospital is one of only a few establishments in the UK able to offer this ground-breaking new treatment.

The Two Stitch facelift is a small procedure to freshen the face, in particular the angle of the jaw. It is for those who do not want, or do not Thread Veins and Microsclerotherapy need, a mini-face lift. If you feel your jawline is just a little loose, and needs Thread Veins are tiny blood vessels in the skin. Usually they cause no tightening, then this could be the procedure for you. trouble, but occasionally they cause a burning or pricking sensation. They You will first meet with Mr. Price, the consultant, for a consultation. He do not usually indicate a serious vein condition and are not a threat to is nationally-recognised in his field and has appeared on a number of TV your health. programmes about cosmetic procedures. After assessing you and talking In most cases thread veins need no treatment, but microsclerotherapy you through the risks and benefits, an appointment will be booked for you can improve their appearance and alleviate symptoms. A chemical called to come back for the procedure. This takes place a sclerosant is injected into the thread vein with in Outpatients, under Local Anaesthetic. It takes a very fine needle. It causes the thread vein to Cosmetic Surgery and Vein about half an hour and leaves small scars within close and fade over the course of several weeks. the hair, high in the sideburn area. Dissolving It is not a perfect treatment and you will not Treatment Open Evening stitches are used to minimise any discomfort get perfect skin but it gives improvement in the afterwards. majority of cases. A course of 3 or 4 treatments Fitzwilliam Hospital “This procedure is ideal for people who want separated by 8 weeks is usually needed to Mon 9th September at 6.30pm minor facial rejuvenation with modest input,” achieve the required degree of fading.

With Mr Amer Durrani and Mr Brandon according to Mr Price. “You can typically be back The needles used are very fine and the Krijgsman at work that afternoon or the next day. It suits sclerosant used is painless on injection. Some people in their 40s or 50s who want a small people feel nothing; some feel little pricks, how Why not come along to this free Open amount of freshening to keep themselves looking uncomfortable varies from one person to another.

Evening where you will be able to access good, but do not have a lot of time to spare.”

The injections will cause some redness and information on cosmetic procedures and welts, like insect bites. These will have gone by varicose vein treatment. the time you take the stockings down. When you Trampoline Neck Lift remove the stockings your legs will probably look Range of procedures to be covered will For years the only way to combat the tell-tale bruised and the veins usually look worse before include: signs of ageing, brought on by a sagging, unthey look better. The veins are usually darker, • Breast surgery shapely neck, has been to undergo surgery sometimes with blue, black or brown spots under • Liposuction through the process of a traditional neck lift. For the skin.

• Tummy tuck those wishing to undergo cosmetic alterations The appearance has usually improved • Varicose/thread veins on their neck area, the Fitzwilliam Hospital is noticeably by day 10-14. At 4-6 weeks the thread now able to offer a state of the art new surgery, veins should look pretty much as they did before designed to provide maximum cosmetic benefit To book your free place please call injection and thereafter start improving. The full but with exceedingly low risks and recovery time.

01733 842304 effect of the injection session is apparent at 12 The Trampoline Neck Lift is carried out by weeks. the consultant surgeon, Mr Ahmad, producing Fitzwilliam Hospital, Milton Way, South If you would like to find out about these or tiny incisions in the neck area, before interlacing Bretton, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, other cosmetic procedures available at the a purposely engineered polyester suture PE3 9AQ Fitzwilliam Hospital, please call the Hospital underneath the jaw line. The procedure lasts www.fitzwilliamhospital.co.uk Services Advisor line on 01733 842304 approximately an hour and can be performed NENE VALLEY LIVING SEPTEMBER 2013

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C OU NTRYF I L E

The Ash Tree The ash tree is the third most common tree species in Britain and has given its name to places all over the country from Ash in Kent to Achadh an Uinnsinn (Ashfield) in Stirlingshire and locally to Ashwell in Rutland. There are ash trees on the outskirts of Stamford and it is common in the countryside around about.

Jean Orpin and Sue Lee have been finding out more

A

sh is a native broadleaf tree which grows up to 40 metres and can live up to 150 years. It is deciduous and its normal life cycle is to flower in April, be in full leaf by May and shed its leaves in October.

The winged seed pods called keys hang in bunches, sometimes staying on all winter.

Ash plays an important part in the countryside as it provides a habitat for more than a hundred species of insects and many birds, who make their nests and also enjoy the seeds.

The light canopy means that sunlight can pass through allowing flowers to grow underneath such as bluebells and wild garlic.

Uses of Ash Wood Ash wood was used by the Anglo-Saxons for spears and handles for their shields because it is strong and flexible so acts as a natural shock absorber. The same properties made it suitable in coach-making and later for the wings of the De Havilland Mosquito aircraft. It continues to be used for tool handles, hockey sticks, oars and furniture as it does not splinter.

Folklore The most familiar saying associated with the ash tree is:Ash before Oak we are in for a soak Oak before the Ash we are in for a splash.

(In fact usually the oak is in leaf long before the ash! ) Not surprisingly with such a widespread native tree, there are various other pieces of folklore about it including • Witches brooms were made with an ash staff • Witches lived in ash trees • The wood was burnt to ward off evil spirits • Sea travellers carried ash wood crosses as mascots to ward off evil • Ash was considered a healing tree, used in the north of England as a cure for rickets and warts

The Bad News

disease, commonly called ash dieback has spread across Europe since the early 1990s and was first identified in Britain early in 2012. By the end of the year infected trees were found in several sites in eastern England Watch carefully for signs and by the middle of 2013 over 500 cases were of disease and report anything confirmed covering most of the country. Imports suspect particularly if you have an of nursery stock from abroad have been halted but ash tree in your garden now signs have been found in young trees here. It is now thought it could also be carried on clothing, Signs to look for footwear and vehicles from Europe or by the wind.

Blackened dead leaves As a result it will be very difficult to prevent the Veins of leaves turning brown spread of the disease.

Die back of twigs and branches

What you can do

The Good News

Scientists at the Norwich Research Park (a partnership between the John Innes Centre, the Genome Analysis Centre and the Sainsbury Laboratory) have ‘sequenced’ the genomes of both the fungus and an ash tree that has proved resistant to it. Although the spread of the disease is unlikely to be halted, there is now a genuine hope that it will be possible to breed a strain of ash that is unaffected by the disease. These could then be used to replace those that perish and restore this feature so natural to our countryside.

More information If you would like to find out more or want to report any signs, there is a Chalera helpline on 08459 33 55 77 or look at one of the following websites. The Woodland Trust www.woodlandtrust.org.uk The Forestry Commission www.forestry. gov.uk/chalara

Sadly our ash trees are under serious attack from a fungus disease Chalera fraxinea. The

42

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As we are a family run business, we would kindly request that you phone our office and check that we are open before making a special journey to our showrooms - Thank you.

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D IA RY DAT E S

SEPTEMBER 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

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 MONDAY

Thursday 12 – Sunday 22 September Dark Earth Unmissable - a Fenland setting, a love affair, a mysterious Bronze Age body…the truth is unearthed. £8.00. Flag Fen, Northey Road, Peterborough, PE6 7QJ. 01473 211498. www.easternangles. co.uk

What’s On

Yasmin Bradley selects interesting events for September Saturday 7 September Peterborough Arts Festival: Generik Vapeur - 7.30pm Percussion! Pyrotechnics!

Spectacular effects! Vibrant French street theatre enacted by blue figures!

Free. Cathedral Square, Peterborough PE1 1XH. arts@ vivacity-peterborough.com www. peterboroughfestival.co.uk/ Saturday 7 – 8 September Peterborough Arts Festival: Festival Finale - 12 – 6pm Wacky hair make-overs, the Wheel of Death plus a plethora of stupendous, surreal entertainment!

Free. River Nene Embankment, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. www. peterboroughfestival.co.uk. arts@ vivacity-peterborough.com Open Studios Northamptonshire at Titchmarsh Glass artists, Deanne Ward, Trudi Docherty and Angie Snelling lead bead-making and borosilicate glass sculpture demonstrations and workshops; 2/3D Sculptural Steel wall art and cards on sale.

Free. Vine Cottage, 34 Polopit, Titchmarsh, NN14 3DL. 07895 193727. www.openstudios.org.uk/ Friday 13 September Music in Quiet Places: Life Stories 7.30pm Poignant music by composers written at significant moments in their lives performed by the fine, internationally renowned, professional musicians of The Harborough Collective, £13.00; (£11.00); under 18s: £3.

Church of St Mary the Virgin, Benefield, PE8 5AF. 01832 205355. www.oundlefestival.org.uk/events/ music-in-quiet-places Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 September Open Studios Northamptonshire Free. Various venues and times. www.openstudios.org.uk Thursday 19 September The Healing Qualities of Aloe Vera: Greeniversity class 6.30pm – 7.30pm Learn to use natural alternatives to treat common ailments.

Friday 6 September 7pm Peterborough Arts Festival: Upon This Rock – Lantern Parade Radiating light, colour and music, lantern parades converge to celebrate Peterborough’s story of migration.

Free. Cathedral Square, Peterborough PE1 1XH. www. peterboroughfestival.co.uk/. arts@vivacity-peterborough.com Free. Peterborough Environment City Trust, The Green House, 4-6 Cowgate, Peterborough, PE1 1NA. 01733 568408; info@pect.org.uk; www.greeniversity.org.uk Henning Wehn - Henning Knows Bestest - 8pm The German Comedy Ambassador says things only a German gets away with … and is very, very funny! £12.25. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207237. key.theatre@vivacitypeterborough.com. www.vivacitypeterborough.com/event/henningwehn Friday 20 September Music in Quiet Places: Between Heaven & Earth 7.30 – 10.00pm Yehudi Menuhin School alumnus and solo violinist, David Le Page performs Bach, Paganini and his own moving piece using the recorded voice of a World War Two pilot shot down over the English Channel. £13.00; (£11.00); under 18s: £3.

Church of St James, Thurning, PE8 5RF. 01832 205355. www. oundlefestival.org.uk/events/musicin-quiet-places Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 September Open Studios Northamptonshire

Free. Various venues and times. www.openstudios.org.uk/ Saturday 21 September Stalin Ate My Homework - 7.30pm Alexei Sayle performs extracts from his new book, a memoir of his life as the son of Communist parents, his childhood in Eastern Europe and his years as a teenage Maoist, as part of the We Love Words literary festival.

Tickets £15/£12.50. The Key Theatre, Peterborough PE1 1EF. Tel: 01733207239 Thursday 26 September Bat Walk at Ferry Meadows Country Park - 6.15 - 8.15pm Cambridgeshire Bat Group presentation followed by a discovery walk!

Free. Booking – essential. 01733 234193 or visitor.services@ neneparktrust.org.uk.

Saturday 28 September Peter Andre in Concert-3pm for 5pm Aussie music and reality TV star Peter Andre heads up this special gig. £28 - £40 only from www.seetickets. com/event/peter-andre-in-concertpeterborough/peterborougharena/709734. Peterborough Arena, East of England Showground, Peterborough, PE2 6XE. 01733 363500. louise@ peterborougharena.com

NENE VALLEY LIVING SEPTEMBER 2013

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The perfect choice for your perfect wedding day

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

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

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

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

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

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

www.twitter.com/talbothotel

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