Rutland Living April 2012 by Best Local Living

HELPING YOU TO GET THE MOST OUT OF LIVING LOCALLY

RUTLAND LIVING COVERING RUTLAND, MARKET HARBOROUGH & SURROUNDING VILLAGES

INTERIOR DESIGN Beautiful Boudoirs FA S H I O N Wedding Wear EASTER Days Out

£1.50 APRIL 2012

@LocalLivingUK

WWW.BESTLOCALLIVING.CO.UK

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING

APRIL CONTENTS

W .

hen I was a teenager I won a competition reading Jenny Joseph’s poem, “Warning”. It starts: “When I am an old woman I shall wear purple With a red hat that doesn’t go, and doesn’t suit me” And I vowed to live by these promises when I got to a certain age but I have been beaten to it by a local group - the “Not Stuck in a Rut-land Red Hatters”, originated by its ‘Queen’ Tessa Angell who first heard about the society a few years ago and vowed to start a chapter in Rutland when she hit 50. The Red Hat Society takes its inspiration from the poem which is about embracing life and fun, rather than being held back by age. There are no rules, except to wear purple, wear a red hat, and wear a smile. Tessa’s nom de chapeau, every member must have one, is Queen Tess of the purplefrills. Tess, along with her side kick, HRH Bella Donna, The Queen of Vice, has organised a feast of outings (‘hoots’) which will include theatre trips, BBQs, a glow worm hunt and more. To be a “red hatter” you must be over 50 years of age. Under 50s can join as “pink hatters” and are the ladies in waiting. They dress in lilac and wear pink hats. The inaugural hoot of the NSR Red Hatters is a special Red Hat dinner in the newly refurbished Falcon Hotel in Uppingham on Weds 11th April. For further information check out www.redhatters-uk. com and to join contact tessa@artangells. com or call Tel: 07825138241. Enjoy and let me know!

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Editor’s Choice – Easter treats for him, her and them Up Front – Heidi Kjeldsen, Mill Street, Oakham, Stamford Stone Company, Itch Gallery and more Market Harborough News – Marzena’s Room, Dunleavy’s Hairdressers and 30th Anniversary Celebration for Medbourne Playgroup Design Solutions – Spring Interiors focus on Beautiful Boudoirs Shops and Services – Glorious Gardens to be enjoyed and gardening guidance from the experts Food and Drink – Chocolate temptation including goodies from Chocolate Alchemy, Hedgerow Spirits and Northfield Farm Out and About – The Queens Head, Bulwick and Weddings at Pipewell Olive Branch recipe – mini puds! Fashion – How to look good as a wedding guest this summer Health and beauty – High-Tec Beauty Treats for spring Discover Rutland - Exton Park uncovered Leicester High Junior Department – your questions answered Activities – Things to make with young children in the holidays Travel – The Isle of Wight, Boutique Greece and plan ahead for next year’s ski deals Out and about – Some of the best regional family days’ out for Easter What’s On in our region this month Writer’s Corner – Dear Jim, Part Three Motoring – Jaguar Shops and Services – The Tax Implications of Renting out your Property

Abigail Late in • Have a flutter this spring at Dingley as the traditional point to point season gets underway. The point-topoint race season at Dingley will again kick off with the Woodland Pytchley fixture on Easter Saturday 7th April 2012. The second day’s action is the Market Harborough-based Fernie meeting which takes place on Sunday 6th May. Visit www.dingleyraces.co.uk for more information.

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Rutland Cover Cakes courtesy of Heavenly Cupcakes www.heavenlycupcakes rutland.co.uk www.facebook.com/ heavenlycupcakesrutland Email: heavenlycupcakes rutland@hotmail.co.uk, Tel: 0772 5553503 Photo: Steven Handley

Market Harborough Cover Pipewell Hall, Pipewell, Northants NN14 1QZ Photograph: Courtesy of Pipewell Hall See page 21 for prestige wedding event

Editor Abigail Richardson 01572 756733 Local Living Ltd, PO Box 208, Stamford PE9 9FY rutlandliving@gmail.com Advertisement Manager, Rutland Tracy Watkinson 01572 813187 rutlandliving@btinternet.com Advertisement Manager, Leicestershire Helen Walton 01780 754801 helen.stamford@btopenworld.com Advertising Copy & Subscriptions Rachel Beecroft 01780 765320 rachel@locallivingdesign.co.uk Head of Design Steven Handley steve@locallivingdesign.co.uk Senior Designer Nik Ellis nik@locallivingdesign.co.uk Publisher Nicholas Rudd-Jones 01780 765571 Email: nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk Printed by Warner’s of Bourne

Subscriptions – annual rate £20 (UK only). Please write to The Editor, enclosing cheque made payable to Local Living Ltd Or subscribe online at www.bestlocalliving.co.uk

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH Living APRIL 2012

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Sarah Harding Interiors Ltd Jubilee Celebrations

• Professional Interior Design Service • • Re-upholstery and Soft Furnishings • • Emma Bridgewater and Cath Kidston Stockists • Furniture •

info@sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk 27 High Street East, Uppingham, Rutland LE15 9PY Tel: 01572 823389 - www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk

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Editor’s selection Easter Treats for Everyone!

HIRST AND HIRST The Corkcicle really is one of those ‘why didn’t I think of that?’ type products. Not only does it remove the need for cumbersome and table cluttering ice buckets, it keeps your white wine at the optimum temperature. Product and packaging look great too and priced at £19.99 it’s a great gift. Contact: Hirst and Hirst, Oakham Tel: 01572 723800 or www.hirstandhirst.co.uk HEAVENLY CUP CAKES As seen on the Rutland cover and new to Oakham – what can I say I have tried these ones and also the carrot cup cake. New ﬂavours are coming every day – I can’t wait to try the banoffee…from £1 each. Contact: Lauren on Tel: 0772 5553503 www.heavenlycupcakesrutland.co.uk, www.facebook.com/heavenlycupcakesrutland, heavenlycupcakesrutland@hotmail.co.uk

SWEET TREATS FROM MINT OF OAKHAM Easter bags and cones. These bags are £ 2.00 each and the cones £ 3.20. Go mad! Contact: Mint, 10 Northgate Oakham, LE15 6QS.

JACK IN THE BOX PASTEL PAINTINGS How about a Treasured Memento of a pastel that captures the personality and character of the family’s best friend? And with commissions taken from £45, it’s an inexpensive, yet original and thoughtful gift. Contact: Nicole Wright, Pastel Paintings, www.pastel-painting.horse-clips.co.uk, email: nicole.pastels@gmail.com or Tel: 07711453727 WILD STRAWBERRY PICKING Either ﬁll your own vintage style tin with goodies or buy them readymade. Price for a tin is £1.99 or ﬁlled with egg and dolly mixtures, £2.90. Available in many of different colours. Contact: Wild strawberry picking, 40 Melton Road Oakham, wildstrawberrypicking.co.uk, Tel: 01572 757118 / 07970770229

HEALTH AND BEAUTY OFFERS These special offers at Rutland Health and Beauty Clinic will make her Easter special: • A Vitality Facial including a scalp massage, with a Back Massage for £45! (usually £58) • A Back Massage, with a ﬁle and paint nail treatment for £30! (usually £40) Contact: Rutland Health and Beauty Clinic, 1a, Market Street, Oakham, Tel: 01572 756589 (to be taken anytime before 30th April 2012)

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING APRIL 2012

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LEARN TO FLYFISH

with….

fun, friendly, all inclusive days from idyllic lakeside lodge on Rutland Water

individuals, couples, groups, corporate team building events, gift vouchers Rob Waddington 01572 722422 07711 182853 email: rob@learntoflyfish.co.uk web: www.rutlandwaterflyfishing.co.uk

Join thefun… in

and for all visitors to Rutland, stay on the water’s edge, beautiful Rutland Water

Lakeside Guest Accommodation The Lodge, Barnsdale North Shore Rutland Water RUTLAND LE15 8AB www.thelodgebarnsdale.co.uk

BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY 7TH MAY, 10AM-5PM

ALL YOUR FAVOURITE TOYS & GAMES AVAILABLE AT FORDS THIS EASTER

• Refreshments all day • Art Exhibition • Plant, cake, book, bric-a-brac and other stalls • Entry £5 adults, children free

Fords of Oakham

8 Church Street, Oakham, Rutland Tel: 01572 722654 - www.fordsofoakham.co.uk

www.activecamping.com

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Come and see our new tent display

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Tents Sleeping bags Sleep mats Cookware l

Waterproofs Wellieboots for all the family l

Visit our shop in Barnack Active Camping at Barnack Country Clothes & Wellieboots.com Barnack, Stamford. PE9 3DY

tel: 01780 740115

2 miles from Burghley House

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Brands include: Day Birger Et Mikkleson Antik Batik Hoss Intropia By Malene Birger

Blessed

Twenty 8 Twelve American Vintage Gallery4 Stills 2ND Day Charli Ronen Chen Darling Modalu CocoRose Tutti & Co

Unit 1, Warwick Brewery, Newark, NG24 1GA, 01636 703052 4 Market Place, Oakham, LE15 6DT, 01572 757088

NEW SEASON PIPPA BAGS NOW IN STORE

Wild Strawberry Picking Chic Vintage & Bespoke Items • Furniture NEW SHOP • Local Rutland Honey NOW • Girl’s dresses, coats OPEN & handmade items • Unique handmade lampshades

www.wildstrawberrypicking.co.uk

40 Melton Road, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6AY Tel: 01572 757118 or 07970 770229

Offering spectacular views over Rutland Water • No booking required - simply pay and play • Choice of playing the Hambleton or Normanton course • Fully licensed • Golf Shop & Driving Range Also available during the summer P.Y.O. strawberries & asparagus

Lodge Farm, Manton Road, Oakham, Rutland LE15 8HB

Telephone: 01572 737525 email: enquiries@rutlandwatergolfcourse.co.uk 8

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LOCAL NEWS

Upfront What’s new this month Heidi Kjeldsen, Mill Street Heidi opened her jewellery shop in Oakham in 1998, having previously qualified as a Geologist, before specialising in Gemmology, Jewellery design and making

eidi Kjeldsen stocks a diverse array of unique handmade jewellery made inhouse, and also from carefully chosen external designers of fine jewellery. Heidi and her team pride themselves on offering an excellent and very personal service to exacting standards, and, should you require a bespoke and exquisite piece of jewellery commissioned, then Heidi Kjeldsen offers this unique service too. Commission pieces commence with an initial customer consultation, on to a Computer Aided Drawing (CAD), and if required the production of a wax model so that a full size template can be viewed. This smooth creative process gives the customer well founded confidence that the production of their special piece of jewellery will be carried out to their individual requirements. Heidi’s latest venture is hand-making her own Murano glass beads (lampworking) which she incorporates into her stunning jewellery designs. Heidi’s Murano glass beads are made in a variety of striking colours and different styles. She has created some stylish necklaces incorporating these gorgeous Murano glass beads and by partnering them with lustrous pearls she makes them into something quite different from that which is available elsewhere. As Heidi explains, “These little works of art are totally unique in that no two of my Murano glass beads are identical. They are collectable pieces which could last for centuries and the possibilities for different designs incorporating my glass are endless. This really opens up a whole new creative aspect for me that I feel complements my existing range of fine Jewellery.” Heidi and her team look forward to welcoming you to Heidi Kjeldsen in Oakham, and showing you their new exciting range of highly desirable and stylish jewellery.

Steffans to Expand

Steffans is to expand to the larger Nolan’s Jewellers site in Market Harborough. The independent retailer has been negotiating with the site’s owner for over 18 months to secure the site which is just across the road from their current location. Both stores will be used, with the existing Steffans becoming an outlet store, while the new larger store will replicate the company’s flagship store in Northampton. Steffans Director, Wes Suter, said, “We’ll be investing a six-figure sum in creating an incredible experience for our customers. We’ll have all the key shop-in-shops that we have in Northampton including Swarovski, Thomas Sabo, Links of London and Pandora.”

Stamford Stone Company Established in 1997 by builder Ivor Crowson and building stone specialist George Wilson, Stamford Stone Company quickly established itself as one of the country’s leading suppliers of English limestone products to the construction industry. Working with the most beautiful of English limestone has allowed the family run business to grow and prosper, gaining an unrivalled reputation supplying new build and restoration projects nationwide and acquiring the famous Clipsham Quarry along the way. Their team of master stonemasons are often met with customer requests to finish off a project with a limestone fireplace, recommendations and word of mouth have evolved this side of the business and led to an obvious demand to launch their own collection. Stamford Stones’ Laura Green explains, “We have always let the company evolve organically, demands change with fashions, market trends, economic changes and we react to them accordingly. We have always, and continue, to provide a bespoke masonry service for fireplaces, but customers are increasingly asking us for inspiration. Our fireplaces are hand carved using limestone from the famous Lincolnshire belt. Formed over millions of years, each bed contains variations in colour, intermingled with fossils, which ensure each fireplace has a unique appearance that (unlike many materials that deteriorate over time) mellows and improves with age. Our knowledge of English limestone, skill of our master masons and experience in the design of bespoke pieces, have resulted in a collection we are extremely proud of.” To view the collection visit the website at www.stamfordstone.co.uk or contact us for a brochure on Tel: 01780 740430 or fireplaces@stamfordstone.co.uk RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING APRIL 2012

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LOCAL NEWS

UPFRONT NEW PODIATRY (CHIROPODY) CLINIC OAKHAM Zoe Allen, Specialist Podiatrist from Lighter Feet, is excited about launching her new foot care clinic in Oakham. Zoe has been looking after Rutland’s feet for the last 4 years, visiting clients in their own homes. Now she can be found at the Rutland Physiotherapy Clinic on Burley Road. Says Zoe, “Keeping your feet looking and feeling great is very important to me; that’s why I was so pleased about moving into premises in Oakham. Here I will be able to offer more treatments, in particular a new and innovative verrucae treatment, more detailed biomechanical assessments and custom made orthotics (insoles). You can be sure that you’ll receive a high level of professional service, in an environment designed to give you the best possible care.” If you would like to give your feet a treat book online at www.lighterfeet.co.uk or call Tel: 01572 850013

A NEW CHAPTER FOR ITCH GALLERY Itch Gallery in Oakham has begun an exciting new phase under the inﬂuence of new owner, Jenny Creasey. Jenny is herself an acclaimed ceramicist and a graduate of De Montfort University. Since graduation Jenny has been granted a Business Development award as well as the prestigious Creative Leicestershire Bursary and her work has been showcased in the national press and BBCTV’s Mary Queen of Shops. Jenny has plans to develop the gallery in a number of exciting ways including the introduction of new makers – especially those working locally. “We have lots of ideas for the gallery but want the emphasis very much to be on making the product unique for the customer; if you see something you like but want it in a different style or colour, the chances are that we can work with the maker to source something customised especially for you. We have also developed a new loyalty scheme to reward repeat custom.” Jenny stocks beautiful handmade jewellery, soft furnishings, gifts, ceramics, prints and artworks plus unusual cards and gift wrap. “With original handmade items starting at around £12, we aim to be a one stop call when you need a special gift.” Meet the team at an Open Day to be held on Saturday 7 April. Enjoy a glass of wine and meet renowned ceramic and print artist Nicola Lidstone whose work will be on display and for sale. Contact: Jenny Creasey, Itch Gallery, Knights Yard, Gaol Street LE15 6AQ Tel: 01572 756760, www.itchgallery.co.uk

HARBOROUGH HAPPENINGS Sosennah Every

REVIEW: MARZENA’S ROOM

Following a ski trip my husband was in need of stretching his aching muscles so what better guinea pig to try out Marzena’s Gyrotonic machine. Although it has the appearance of a modern equivalent of the rack, he needn’t have worried! Marzena’s constant guidance on how to do the movements properly to achieve the best results left him conﬁdent and relaxed. For a full hour he could feel the stretches working and by the end of the session, he had completed so many movements that he described the feeling as having a full body massage. The Gyro session was followed by hot stone therapy and massage, ensuring Marzena released all SPECIAL knots and tension points. He assured me OFFERS FOR that he felt so blissfully stress free during MH LIVING READERS and after the hot stone massage that he IN APRIL could easily have gone to sleep on the £25 for 1hour Gyrotonic table and certainly slept well that night! workout with a personal trainer I certainly plan to try out the Gyro and receive a free 30 minute neck machine for myself postpartum. and shoulder massage or £35 The Coach House Ofﬁce 3, Talbot for 1hour hot stone therapy Yard, Market Harborough, Tel: 07967 and receive a free 1 hour 292377 www.marzenasroom.co.uk Gyrotonic workout.

DUNLEAVY’S HAIRDRESSERS OPENS

Mark Dunleavy promises to bring back the personal touch by solely looking after clients from start to ﬁnish and by providing longer appointments. Mark is a national master trainer, one of only a handful in the country and has previously worked alongside some of the countries leading hairdressers. Quaker’s Yard, off Adam and Eve Street, Market Harborough, Tel: 01858 464555

30TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION FOR MEDBOURNE PLAYGROUP

Congratulations to founding member Cecila Pocock who still runs the Medbourne Playgroup today. Starting out in 1982 as a place for local mums to meet, today it is one of the most popular playgroups in the area, meeting three times a week, has over 20 children on its books and has recently been rated Good by an OFSTED inspection. The playgroup runs as a charitable foundation and to celebrate its 30th Anniversary there is going to be a fundraising fayre on Bank Holiday Monday 7th May 2-5pm at the Medbourne Village Hall. A compilation recipe book with yummy favourites of past and present children is on sale now in local village shops.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING APRIL 2012

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www.cavells.co.uk

Mulberry, Paul Smith, Ralph Lauren, Escada, Marc Cain, Joseph, Gant, Odd Molly, Hackett, Jackpot, Ash, Anya Hindmarch & Velvet Cavells South Street brands include: White Stuff, Superdry, Converse, Rampant Sporting, Barbour, Levi’s, Seasalt and Part Two. CAVELLS •16 Mill Street • Oakham • LE15 6EA • 01572 770372

SOUTH STREET • Oakham • LE15 6BG • 01572 772477 11

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DESIGN INTERIORS

Spring Interiors

Beautiful Boudoirs Catherine Batkin seeks out some delightful designs to turn your bedroom into a relaxing sanctuary. Sweet dreams! Opulence and luxury are the key to a successful bedroom Even if the rest of your home is stark and streamlined, the bedroom is not the place to go for the minimalist look. In my opinion, a sterile, bare environment is not conducive to a relaxing night’s sleep. In fact, pile on the luxury I say! Take these tips from top local interior designers to get the look just right: Hunters Interiors of Stamford When it comes to ‘dressing’ your bedroom and specifically choosing your bedding, crisp white linen is the best option, as this can be accessorised with brighter cushions and throws. White bed linen is sophisticated and chic and linen is gorgeous to lie on; buy the highest thread count you can for the best feel. Place cushions in varying graduating sizes on the bed with different trims and styling, which will add visual interest. This look is also really easy to maintain - anyone can position cushions quickly once the bed is made and it will instantly make your room appear more luxurious. A shaped fabric headboard allows you to incorporate more softness into the room. Leather will give a harder masculine look, but

pretty fabrics will look so much more inviting. A co-ordinating or contrasting bed valance is a necessary finishing touch – never have the divan base showing. A luxurious bed throw is not only useful on cold nights but looks great on the end of the bed and it must be soft to lie on – don’t go for scratchy wool; cashmere, velvet, or chenille’s are better options. To finish the bed, invest in a great duvet, preferably goose down; also a feather topper on the mattress will create a really comfortable sleeping environment. For privacy in the bedroom, have curtains for a luxurious feel and a roman blind to lower for privacy – much cleaner and fresher looking than net curtains. Fit discrete music speakers into the room for the perfect ambience. Flooring is often overlooked – but comfort and warmth are especially important in the bedroom. Hard wooden floors can look great, but do use rugs to soften the feel underfoot. If you are using carpets, one of the best tips is to invest in the best underlay – go for a cheaper carpet even – but get a quality underlay – it will be like walking on air! Finally, don’t forget accessories – candles are a must – cream in colour and unscented. Use lanterns as well for safety around the room.

Hunters Interiors Sarah Harding Interiors, Uppingham Sarah from Sarah Harding Interiors told me how to give your bedroom the latest look with the gorgeous new prints from Designers Guild fabric and wall coverings: “This season, there is a definite move away from using brightly patterned wallpaper to create a feature wall. Instead, the look to go for is to use paper on every wall; albeit in more subtle designs with smaller prints and pastel shades. We stock the new range from Designers Guild which is epitomised by lots of vintage style ditsy floral prints. Wallpapers printed with birds and butterflies are also great for giving your bedroom a revamp for spring and even textured wall coverings are making a comeback.” Sarah and her team can also make curtains

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH Living APRIL 2012

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Elizabeth Stanhope Interiors showcasing Nina Campbell Barrington Wallpaper.

Sarah Harding

in co-ordinating fabrics and specialise in reupholstering furniture including chaise longues and headboards to fit in with the overall theme. Coordination Confusion If you like the idea of designing your room yourself but don’t really know where to start, then help is at hand. Fords of Oakham stock fabric from company Curtain Express who make Hirst & Hirst it really easy to coordinate your colour scheme. Simply choose the fabric for your made-to-measure curtains, add cushion covers in the same fabric and complete with a throw or bedspread – voila! A new look for your bedroom in three easy steps. Fords also stock a range of beds and mattresses so you can try before you buy – a must-do if you don’t want to end up with one that doesn’t suit your lifestyle or your needs.

Painted Out - Before

Painted Out - After

Add Texture with Soft Furnishings When dressing your windows, you may want to visit a curtain specialist, and in this area we’re spoiled for choice. Caroline Everard from Curtains Complete in Market Harborough has a large stock of quality nearly new curtains, so whether you’re buying or selling, there’s something for all tastes and budgets. Prices range from £15 right up to £700, and you’re even encouraged to take the curtains home to see what they look like in situ before you commit to buying. If you like the idea of madeto-measure window dressings then Julie from Kingfisher Curtains in Oakham will measure, make and hang quality curtains and blinds as well as undertake alterations on existing curtains. For a more contemporary look, contact Rutland Shutters for made-to-measure plantation shutters – great for varying the privacy levels as well as offering insulation benefits in the winter and keeping rooms cooler in the summer. Bespoke Finishing Touches Tailored finishing touches can really put your

personal stamp on a room - this is easy to achieve with existing bedroom furniture that can be given an entirely new look. Lesley Jones from Painted Out told me how: “When updating a room, deciding what to do with the furniture is often a dilemma! Buying new can be expensive and what do you do with the items you have? It can be virtually impossible to sell them, certainly for any reasonable amount, as anyone who has tried to sell on e-bay will know. The answer is simple: ‘upcycle’ - the latest word in recycling and renovating. Your old orange pine and dark wood chests and wardrobes will be unrecognisable when painted. Consider a ‘French style shabby chic’ finish using cream or white with perhaps a hint of another colour showing through from underneath. Or for something a little different, try a ‘Swedish Gustavian’ look in a soft grey with a whitewashed driftwood finish which will look lovely in a New England style bedroom. If the piece is very old, to keep the character, consider washing with an antique glaze or brown wax after painting to ‘put the age back’ and give it authenticity.” Lesley has years of experience in breathing new life into old furniture and is happy to provide free no obligation quotes. Or why not have a go yourself? Workshops are currently being held in Bourne (for more info see website – details at the bottom) and you will have the added bonus of knowing it was your hard work that created a look you’ll love. If it’s unusual accessories you’re after, then head to Hirst and Hirst in Church Street, Oakham. Owner Andy is constantly sourcing new and exciting items you won’t find anywhere else. Fresh out of the wrapping on the day I went in were some gorgeous Ara wall mirrors, inspired by vintage handheld mirrors from young designer Haidee Drew; the ‘Fair’ and ‘Grace’ designs are priced at £29.50 each and will add a timeless look to your room. Also by the same designer are the Jojo and Mojo ceramic duck hooks, ideal for displaying pretty scarves and handbags or jewellery. And they’re not only a great storage solution but perfect for adding texture to the walls too.

Directory:

Hunters Interiors, A16 Uffington, Stamford, PE9 4TD, Tel: 01780 757946, www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk Sarah Harding Interiors, 27 High Street East, Uppingham, LE15 9PY, Tel: 01572 823389, www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk Hirst and Hirst Living, 18 Church Street, Oakham, LE15 6AA, Tel: 01572 723800, www.hirstandhirst.co.uk Fords of Oakham, 8 Church Street, Oakham, LE15 6AA, Tel: 01572 724493, www.fordsofoakham.co.uk Kingfisher Curtains, Oakham, Tel: 01572 757893 Curtains Complete, The Hall, Back Lane, East Farndon, Nr Market Harborough, LE16 9SE, Tel: 01858 466671, www.curtainscomplete.co.uk Rutland Shutters, Tel: 01664 474013, Mob: 07768 695236, www.rutlandshutters.co.uk Painted Out furniture, Lesley Anne Jones, Tel: 01778 394744, Mob: 07762 325494, www.paintedout.co.uk RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH Living APRIL 2012

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Room to Live

Traditional Restoration Timber Renovation Specialists Old sash & casement windows, exterior doors & joinery

Window Repair

Why replace your timber windows when you can restore? Traditional Restoration offers a cost-saving alternative to window replacement. Also: • Repairs and renovations • Overhaul and draught proofing • Reglazing and reputtying

Before

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For a free, no obligation estimate please call James on:

01572 720524 or 07841 527855 tradrest@hotmail.co.uk

www.traditional-restoration.co.uk

FOR SALE

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Clock & Watch Restoration and Repair Robert Loomes MBHI FRSA 4, St Mary’s Hill, Stamford PE9 2DP 01780 481319

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House visits, all domestic clocks repaired, high grade repairs to all makes of watches. Insured, qualified, guaranteed

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ars Ove ex r 25 pe rie n

Bespoke Bathrooms & Wet Rooms • Plumbing & Heating COMPLETE DESIGN & INSTALL OR SUPPLY ONLY.

FOR BEAUTIFUL MODERN & TRADITIONAL BATHROOMS & WET ROOMS…

As i n divid u a l a s you New showroom now open: Unit 8 Fernie Court,Station Road, Uppingham, Rutland, LE15 9US - Open 9.30am – 5pm Mon-Fri, 9.30am-1pm Sat, Closed Thursday

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All work fully insured & guaranteed

OAKHAM ORIENTAL RUGS Rutland and Leicestershire’s only dedicated Oriental Rug Retailer 100s of Traditional and Contemporary Rugs - New and Old

• No obligation home trials • Room size carpets available

• Specialist knowledge • Cleaning and repair service

6 & 7 The Maltings, Mill Street, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6EA

Tel: 01572 724441

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For choice, specialist advice and service second to none 15

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Enjoy our fresh local food

DELI BUTCHERS CAFE PLANT CENTRE

KEN RAWSON

GARDEN DESIGNS COLOUR

Spring is here...enjoy afternoon tea in the café, outstanding salamis at the deli, fresh vegetables from the farm and fantastic local meat at the butchers. Worth a visit; we’re the Midlands Local Food Award Winner!

Let the winter Blues spring into Yellow and Green and spend summer in the Pink with the autumn well Red.

All year round Ring 01780 481624 for help www.kenrawsongardendesigns.co.uk Easton-on-the-Hill, Stamford. Established 1986

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HOME & GARDEN

GLORIOUS GARDENS

Michelle Hansel

“Gardening is life enhancing, it’s vital for the environment, creates beautiful spaces and best of all is great fun” Sue Biggs Royal Horticultural Society Director General

HERITAGE GARDEN As part of the Royal Horticultural Society’s (RHS) National Gardening Week in April, Kelmarsh Hall has been chosen to host a Heritage Garden Day on April 17th. The RHS, the UK’s leading gardening charity, launched National Gardening Week – which takes place from 16th to 22nd April 2012 - to get the nation growing. The day in the gardens will give visitors the chance to have their questions answered through an advice clinic run by the experts from the RHS plus enjoy a whole range of activities. Admission to the event is £5 for adults, £4.50 for concessions and free for RHS members. Other upcoming events not to be missed at Kelmarsh are: • April 21st & 22nd: Kelmarsh Country Fair – www.countrymanfairs.co.uk • May 6th & 7th: Hardy Plant Fair, 10am to 4pm, including cooking demonstrations. £2.50 admission BEAUTIFUL BARNSDALE Be inspired at Barnsdale Gardens this spring, where blooms of Anemones, Chionodoxa and Doronicum are carpeting the ground around the early-flowering shrubs and the upper limits are ablaze with the single and double blossoms of the flowering cherries. Everything makes for a wonderful view as well as beautiful photographs, which is why Barnsdale’s Spring Flower Photography course is one not to be missed- you’ll have a really rewarding day and a great memento of an inspirational time of year. Mind you, April is not just about spring flowers- in the productive areas of Barnsdale Gardens seed-sowing has been progressing for a couple of months, but now

The Leicestershire and Rutland Gardens Trust are a voluntary organisation and a registered charity and bring together people from all walks of life who are devoted to protecting our landscape, parks and gardens. For more information about their events visit website: www.lrgt.org

more tender vegetable varieties are beginning to be sown and it’s time to turn the compost heaps now that the weather is warming up. If you want to ﬁnd out more about composting or extending your vegetable cropping season, Nick Hamilton can help with a couple of courses on those very subjects. Visit the website for more information on this and other events. PERENNIAL INSPIRATION This April at Farndon Fields Plant Centre you will ﬁnd a range of herbaceous perennials, shrubs and climbers ready for planting this spring. A great new range of pots as well as a unique selection of specimen plants bought directly from the warm plains of Italy are available to add a bit of the Mediterranean to your garden giving it that perfect spring/summer feeling.

Things to do in April in your garden (Advice from Elms Landscapes): • Look at lawn care • Tidy up leaves, sticks and debris on grass before first cut • Cut grass on a higher cut at the beginning of the season, lowering the cut height as the season progresses • Apply first feed to lawn, low nitrogen to produce strong but not lush growth • Lawn spiking • Prune herbaceous plants that have been protected from the winter weather by last year’s growth • Fork over borders and remove weeds • Break up any compacted soil from waterlogging • Prune early flowering shrubs e.g. mahonia and viburnums GARDENING GUIDANCE Established in 1989 Elms is a family run business led by David and Louise Lewendon. Services offered by Elms include: Garden Design, Landscape construction and project management, Turf care, Contract grass cutting and Border maintenance. David is available for garden learning days that are a great opportunity for you to get to grips with your own garden. Whilst David can show you how to maintain your garden he can also suggest planting ideas. A garden learning day can give the aspiring gardener the confidence and creativity to become a good gardener! • Why not visit the Leicester University Botanical Gardens for free this April or Rockingham Castle Gardens, open to the public on selected dates. Check out the RHS website for details of other events happening near you.

DIRECTORY: Kelmarsh Hall, Kelmarsh, Northampton, Tel: 01604 686543 Farndon Fields Plant Centre, Farndon Fields Farm, Farndon Road, Market Harborough, Tel: 01858 464838, Elms Landscapes, Tel:01572 770373 or 07540 979517, www.elmslandscapes.co.uk, www.turfcarerutland.co.uk Barnsdale Gardens, The Avenue, Exton, Oakham, Rutland, Tel: 01572 813200 University of Leicester Botanic Garden, Stoughton Drive South, Oadby, Tel: 0116 271 2933 Rockingham Castle, Rockingham, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, Tel: 01536 770240 RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING APRIL 2012

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FOOD & DRINK

CHOCOLATE

TEMPTATION Sarah Lyon explores a wealth of chocolate treats unique to this region BE TEMPTED Hedgerow Spirits handmade, hand dipped luscious Sloe Gin Truffles Award winning chocolatier, Bittersweet Chocolates, add the flesh from gin infused sloes and a little extra sloe gin to a ganache centre, which is then hand dipped in fine quality Belgian dark chocolate. Sloes are handpicked from hedgerows and using quality spirits left to infuse naturally over a period of several months. This traditional method allows the fruit flavours to slowly transform the spirits. Hedgerow Spirits are available to buy all year round whilst chocolates tempt us over the Easter time. • Source from Northfield Farm Shop, Whissendine Lane, Cold Overton, Oakham, LE15 7QF or on line www.hedgerowspirits.co.uk

HEAVENLY CHOCOLATE – Duffy Sheardown of Red Star Chocolate Based in (of all places) Cleethorpes, Lincolnshire, is the UK’s newest artisan chocolate producer of single origin chocolate bars from different regions of the world. Batches are small with no attempt to homogenise. Duffy takes the time to get to know different bean regions and it is this attention to detail that has secured the best beans available. Duffy’s Chocolate Honduras Indio Rojo 72% won the Academy of Chocolate, 2011 Awards, Bean to Bar Best Dark Bar. • Source from The Cheese Cellar, St Mary’s Street, Stamford CHOCOLATE ALCHEMY ‘Chocolate is very creative but limitless,’ says Pete Gardner of Chocolate Alchemy. Chocolate Alchemy is run like a bar in its concept. Pete comes from a bartending and management background and has brought these skills and inﬂuences to his coffee shop and chocolate making workshops.

APOSTLE’S FINGERS - A recipe by Ursula Ferrigno, from her book La Dolce Vita These fingers are carefully rolled pancakes with a fresh ricotta and chocolate filling. When they are cut, they really do resemble fingers. Ursula is a talented Italian cook and baker. This recipe was one that her grandmother would make for the family. “My grandmother was a very religious person where at home we had prayers everyday with the rosary being said. We were taught to be kind, good and truthful. A home bound with religion and honour, where the food we ate was evocative of religious feast days. This has been a blessing as I feel my teaching is about sharing and privilege.” • I first met Ursula and saw her in action at one of the many cookery demonstrations she has given at Marilyn Squire’s School of Cookery in Folkingham, nr Sleaford in Lincolnshire. (Ring Marilyn for course details, Tel: 01529 497281). Makes 24 fingers Batter • 5 eggs • 25g (1 oz) caster sugar • 115g (4 oz) plain white ‘00’ Italian flour • Pinch of salt • 225ml (8 fl oz) milk • Unsalted butter, for greasing

Filling • 450g (1 lb) ricotta • 175g (6 oz) caster sugar • Grated zest of 1 unwaxed lemon • Grated zest of 1 unwaxed orange • Grated zest of 1 unwaxed clementine (optional) • 1 tbsp double cream • 2 tbsp rum • 55g (2 oz) dark chocolate 70% cocoa solids Candied zest, to decorate To prepare the batter, whisk together the eggs and sugar until well blended. Beat in the ﬂour, add the salt and gradually add the milk, whisking vigorously until the batter is smooth. Cover and leave to stand for 30-60 minutes. To make the ﬁlling, put the ricotta in a bowl and beat in the sugar, zests and cream until smooth. Finely chop the chocolate and beat into the mixture with the rum. Wipe a heavy, 28cm (11in) non-stick crepe pan with a little butter. Place over a medium heat. When the pan is medium hot, ladle in enough batter to cover the base. Cook until it bubbles and the underside is golden brown, then turn and cook the other side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and stack on a large plate, interleaved with greaseproof paper. Repeat with the remaining batter to make 8 pancakes.

2 3

Pete runs chocolate making workshops or truffle making parties for larger groups. Learn about the history of cocoa and how chocolate is made before having a go yourself. Taste nine single origin estate chocolates and enjoy the flavours of sipping chocolate, silky creamy thick chocolate, whilst your own creations set. Chocolate Alchemy, 5 Churchgate Mews, Loughborough, LE11 1TZ – info@chocolatealchemy.co.uk • Chocolate Alchemy Chocolate Making Kit - £29.95 with refills available in store and online soon. Postal orders info@chocolate-alchemy.co.uk

Lay a pancake on a work-surface and cut away any brittle edges. Place a heaped tablespoon of the filling in the middle, then spread very thinly over the whole pancake. Roll the pancake tightly towards you. Repeat with each pancake. Slice each across at a slight diagonal into 3 fingers. Discard the ends of each roll. Chill in the fridge before serving. If wished, decorate with candied zest and eat with your fingers. Taste it notes: Source Duffy’s Red Star Chocolate and ricotta cheese from The Cheese Cellar in Stamford. ‘00’ flour can be sourced from Waitrose, Stamford. A squeeze of clementine juice on pancake before serving is a deliciously good suggestion.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING APRIL 2012

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THE BUSTARD INN ‘FANCY A DRIVE IN THE COUNTRY THIS SUNDAY?’ SUNDAY LUNCH AT THE BUSTARD……

Lunch served 12-4 p.m. 1 course £14.50/ 2 courses £18.95/ 3 courses £23.50 Child (under12) 1 course £8 / 2 course £11 Limited bar & brunch menu available also - Booking advisable

Please scan below to link to sample menu

www.thebustardinn.co.uk 44 Main Street, South Rauceby, Lincolnshire NG34 8QG

01529 488250

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OUT & About

The Queens Head, Bulwick

Fiona Cumberpatch tries out the new offering at this delightful village pub

t’s always good to report that a village pub is back in business and we’re pleased that Bulwick’s 17th century hostelry is firing on all cylinders again after a period in the doldrums and a three month closure. Under new ownership since May, The Queen’s Head has a fresh look and a new head chef – Haydn Laidlow, previously of Oundle’s Chapel Dining Room. The cosy stone-flagged bar with its beams and wood burning stove has been lightened with mirrors behind the bar, cream walls and jaunty country checks, and there’s a more formal restaurant area, which extends over three rooms. A blackboard with a short list of specials greeted us, and caused instant mouth-watering. There was also a printed bar menu and an à la carte one. We were in a light lunch mood, so though tempted by the venison pie with mashed potatoes and veg, a caesar salad with grilled chicken won the day for me. My colleague Bridget chose the grilled goats’ cheese salad with beetroot and pickled walnuts, and we shared some hand cut chips. My Caesar salad was crisp and delicious, with a good sized portion of char-grilled chicken, creamy parmesan dressing and – a surprise – fresh anchovies. Bridget made short work of her smallish portion of goats’ cheese salad, relishing the earthy nut and beetroot flavours. She would have liked some bread to accompany it, which wasn’t offered. But she made up for her carb-free first course with a splendid dessert of bread and butter pudding with fresh vanilla custard. My crème brulee with home made shortbread biscuits was an absolute blinder with a crisp, crack-with-your-spoon, caramel top and soft underside. Chef Haydn produces deceptively simple, appetising food, all locally farmed or sourced, and eminently suited to a country pub that isn’t trying to be too clever. “I’m very lucky to have game from our local estate,” he says. “And I can’t wait to get our pizza oven fired up in the summer.” There are CAMRA accredited real ales and an excellent wine selection, too. Yes, the Queens Head is firmly back on the map. The Queens Head, Main St, Bulwick NN17 3DY Tel: 01780 450272 www.thequeensheadbulwick.co.uk

Pipewell Hall prestige Wedding event Pipewell Hall invite you to ‘A Bespoke Open Day, Designed for the more discerning Bride & Groom’, in association with the region’s premier wedding magazine, Essential Weddings Sunday May 13th from 11am - 4pm at Pipewell Hall, Pipewell, Northants NN14 1QZ Have a full tour of one of the country’s most stunning country mansions, built in 1675 and set in 50 acres of Northamptonshire’s finest countryside. Meet some of the region’s top suppliers in the lakeside marquee. View the stunning designer bridal suite ‘The Gate Lodge’ with its very own private hot tub. Complimentary canapés and bubbly will be served and there will be the opportunity to see the full set-up of Pipewell Hall for your bespoke wedding. Meet the Essential Weddings Magazine team, who will be on hand with some top wedding tips. Receive your complimentary copy of Essential Weddings magazine (normally £3.50) This will be the first time and only time this year that you will have the opportunity to view the full set-up and layout of Pipewell Hall. If you would like to book a personal viewing on the day please register your attendance with Trudie at Pipewell Hall Tel: 01536 760563 or email: info@pipewellhall.com

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING APRIL 2012

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SEAN’S KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL

Mini puds! Too full for dessert? Don’t worry, Sean Hope is here to help…

The Olive Branch mini desserts Chocolate brownie with white chocolate sauce Sticky toffee pudding with clotted cream • Caramelised lemon tart Raspberry and passion fruit Eton mess • Pimms jelly with cucumber basil mousse

Ca ra m elis ed le m on ta rt

Makes one tart (20cm tart tin) Serves 10-12 For the sweet pastry • 400g plain ﬂour • 200g unsalted butter, diced • 96g caster sugar • 2 egg s • Baking beans

1 In a mixing bowl, add the flour, sugar and dic ed butter. 2 Mix with your hands to a breadcrumb texture. 3 Beat the eggs and add to the pastry mix. 4 Mix to a dough, wrap in cling film and chill for one hour. 5 Roll out the pastry to 2mm thick. Line the tar t mould with the pastry and add som e baking beans. 6 Bake the pastry tart blin d (without any filling) in a preheated oven at Gas Ma rk 4 (180C) for 30 minute s. 7 Remove the baking bea ns and bake for a furthe r 10 minutes. 8 When cooked, remove the tart case from the ove n and brush with egg wash to seal the pastry, then allo w to dry. For the lemon filling • 9 eggs • 1 egg yolk • 30 0ml double cream • 390 g caster sugar • Zest and juice of 5 lemons

and passion fruit Eton mess with white chocolate 1 Mix the eggs together in a bowl. mousse – comes with a 2 In a saucepan, heat the cream, lemon zest and sugar and little drama attached. For bring to the boil. extra theatre we use dry 3 Mix the lemon juice wit h the eggs, then pour the heated ice in the bottom of the cream into the eggs thr ough a strainer. serving dish, sprinkled 4 Mix all the ingredients together well. with a couple of drops of 5 Place the lemon tart mixture over a bain ma rie of rose essential oil. At your simmering water and coo k gently for ﬁve minute s while table the dry ice starts continuing to stir. to vapourise at room 6 Pre-heat the oven to Gas Mark ½ (120C) and carefully temperature, creating pour the lemon tart mix ture into the baked pas try tart. a smoke effect and 7 Bake the lemon tart for around 30 minutes unt il just set. releasing the wonderful 8 Carefully remove the tart from the oven and allow to cool rose aroma that to room temperature bef ore serving with your cho ice of seasonal fruit coulis. complements the taste. I’ll leave you with a recipe for the full-sized version of one of my alltime favourite puddings, which, of course, is part of the Olive Branch selection, but in miniature. I love the crisp, Dry ice sweet pastry, perfectly cooked, combined with If you ever want to use dry ice (frozen the zesty, creamy lemon ﬁlling. Pure brilliance! carbon dioxide) in your cooking, you can order it directly from a Leicester company called Dioxice – 0116 2240072. Beware, Ingredients that Sean will be cooking with at the Olive Branch though – dry ice is extremely cold so handle in April with care.

udding lovers take note! We’ve launched a selection of mini desserts at the Olive Branch in Clipsham. I guess these sweet treats could be described as ‘pudding tapas’ and the idea behind them comes from my own experiences of eating out (which with two kids and two pubs to run, doesn’t happen all that often these days!). Like most people I have a sweet tooth and love to indulge in a good dessert but occasionally struggle to find room after having a starter and a main. We’ve all been there, haven’t we? So with that dining quandary in mind, we have devised the perfect finish to a meal: a choice of five different, individual desserts that comprise only a couple of (quite large) mouthfuls but are full of great taste. You can choose just one to have with a coffee, or mix and match a larger selection for your table. We’ve had lots of fun and spent quite a while playing around with flavour and texture combinations to achieve the best possible mini pud selection. One of them – the raspberry

Veg - Jersey Royals, purple sprouting broccoli, radishes, rhubarb, rocket, spinach, spring onions, watercress Herbs - Basil, chervil, chives, coriander, dill, mint, sorrel Mean - Beef, chicken, lamb, pork, rabbit, wood pigeon Fish & seafood - Cockles, eel, crab, john dory, lobster, mackerel, mussels, whitebait Fruit - Lemons, oranges, passion fruit

8 NENE 22 RUTLAND VALLEY & MARKET LIVING HARBOROUGH July 2008 LIVING APRIL 2012

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restaurant & hoteL an historic venue With a conteMporary style, for special occasions, events & conferences

Marquess set Lunch 2 courses for £12.00 - 3 courses for £15.00 Monday – saturday 12.00 – 2.30pM Bar open all day everyday froM 10.00aM

JuBilee celeBrations cooKing deMonstration- Monday - 14th May, £35pp

‘Ken forrester, stellenBosch south africa, Wine dinner’ - Monday 16th apriL, £55 pp

afternoon tea avaiLabLe 7 days a week 3-5pM as froM 1st May

Men only cooKing deMonstration ‘Boys, Beers and BBQ’s’ Monday 7th May, £35pp

Serving Food, Lunch & dinner, 7 dayS a week

Spring Prezzo Fisso & free sparkling Rosé

E x p e r ie n c e t he D if f e r e n c e at

OTTERS SMOKEHOUSE & DELI

Bring this ad with you to either Firenze or Boboli, enjoy our Spring fixed price menus and we’ll pour you a gorgeous glass of chilled Rosé Prosecco, on us. Firenze 0116 279 6260 firenze.co.uk

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

Boboli 0116 279 3303 bobolirestaurant.co.uk

The

Cherry house Restaurant

“ The difference is in the detail...” Reservations Essential

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

Visit Mill Street for our naturally smoked Suffolk fish and meat, traditional and artisan cheeses, plus a wide range of individually sourced, quality charcuterie and deli products. Entertaining made easy with platters to order plus homemade tarts. Now serving ‘lunch to go’: fresh sandwiches, pâtés, crisps, flapjacks...

3a Mill Street, Oakham 01572 756481 info@ottersdeli.co.uk www.ottersdeli.co.uk 01733 571721 125 Church Street Werrington Peterborough, PE4 6QF www.cherryhouserestaurant.co.uk

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FASHION

Photo: Ashworth Photography - www.ashworthphotography.co.uk

DRESSED UP

AND READY TO GO! Vanessa Hollander has been out and about in our local boutiques once more. This time, in search of the perfect wedding outﬁt

t is around now that summer wedding invites might be dropping through our doors. So it is also about now that many of us, invited guests, start to panic about what to wear! For a man it’s simple. Yet for us girls, it can send even the most rational of us into a ﬂat spin. However, it really need not be that big a deal. So before you set out on that all-important shopping trip, bear in mind the following tips:

The biggest thing to remember is that the bride is the most important person. It’s her outﬁt that guests will be looking at and commenting on – not yours!

Stockists

Try not to ‘over do’ things. We all have our own personal style. Try not to change this completely for the sake of one day. If you’re not a typical ‘dress’ person, then look for one that’s more ﬂowing and less restrictive. Stick to what suits you and what you feel comfortable in.

Keep it simple. The mere mention of the word ‘wedding’ can make us completely over-think things. The days of completely matching dress, jacket, shoes, bag and hat are over. Nowadays a simple, yet stylish dress will sufﬁce. Less is sometimes more and this should be kept front of mind!

Don’t spend a fortune on something you’ll never wear again. Think about if you can wear the outﬁt for other occasions or how it might ﬁt into your existing wardrobe. Can it be dressed down and worn again? Invest in a lovely dress certainly, but make sure you’ll get your wear out of it.

Jacks, Market Harborough, 01858 468876 Attic, Oakham, 01572 759000, www.atticfashion.co.uk Vanilla, Oakham, 01572 757577 Cavells, Oakham, 01572 770372, www.cavells.co.uk Woosters, Oakham, 01572 723697, www.woosters.co.uk

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING APRIL 2012

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This gorgeous, printed dress is made from heavy silk and so hangs beautifully. It has a full skirt and a simple oyster silk tie to nip in the waist. Added to that it has an all-important sleeve, making it incredibly easy to wear. This ﬁfties inspired polka dot dress is simply stunning. It’s detail and cut is exquisite. If you have curves, it enhances them and if you’re smaller it sits on your frame perfectly too. Quite simply, this dress does all the talking for you!

Fi : B fties Ca omb Wr ve sh ap lls el Dr , O l fr es ak om s ha m,

£2 15

gs, hin T e Nic ss : ttic, e r D A fromham, Oak

5 £11

This beautiful, printed silk dress is from Nice Things. Wear it on it’s own with a pair of nude platforms or a funky wedge. The perfect way to keep your look simple, yet stylish.

G ee s, F s : ck es Ja t gh, r D om ke ou fr ar bor M ar H

9 9 £1

This stunning maxi dress has a soft pleated skirt and is incredibly ﬂattering on any ﬁgure. Team it with a little shrug for the Big Day or, afterwards, with a cropped denim jacket for a more casual look.

M Ul axi D Wo dah res Oa oste l fro s : kh rs m am , ,

£1 56

Lace is big news this summer, so this cream lace dress is bang on trend. Wear it for the Big Day with tanned legs, bright coloured accessories and shoes. Then afterwards, slip it on over a pair of jeggings for a more casual look.

Lac Van e Dre illa ss : O , Oa x kha mo fr om m, Nec kla ce,

£10 5 £25

Photographer – Elli Dean www.ellideanphotography.co.uk RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING APRIL 2012

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Celebrating our 1st year under new management £5 off Bio Sculpture Gels (valid until 30th April)

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

HIGH-TEC BEAUTY TREATS Catherine Batkin looks at the science behind some of the most advanced treatments in the beauty industry today

A FLAWLESS FINISH: Ever wanted to achieve that airbrushed ﬁnish that you see in magazines? The innovative New CID cosmetic range available from Lalique in Oakham will ensure you achieve your most ﬂawless make-up yet. Designed by a team from New ID photographic studios, the cosmetics are easy to apply, lightweight to wear – and look amazing too. Two of the most popular products are the i-prime foundation primer, a lightweight serum which contains powerful antioxidants and pigments to blur imperfections. Smooth on after moisturising and then follow with the i-perfect colour adjust foundation which cleverly adapts to your individual skin tone. DON'T SWEAT IT: With summer approaching, if the thought of baring your underarms in sleeveless tops leaves you hot and bothered, then seeking treatment for the distressing condition hyperhydrosis (excessive armpit sweating) could provide the relief you are after. At Glen Eden Medical Aesthetics in Corby Glen, they use botox injections to temporarily block the chemical signals from the nerves that stimulate the sweat glands. This can be effective for up to six months and is perfectly safe to be repeated if necessary. Call Glen Eden for a professional consultation. BEAUTY BEGINS AT HOME: Medical Director, Dr Ben Coyle of Aura in Market Harborough believes that great skin starts with the routine you use at home: “We recommend the Priori skincare range (recently featured in Vogue, Glamour magazine and Elle magazine) which was developed by scientists who patented SPF. The range contains powerful antioxidants as well as vitamins A and E for superior anti-ageing effects. The Idebenone products are particularly powerful and are great for sun damaged skin and will even out pigmented skin, smooth lines and intensely hydrate.” Contact Aura for your personalised skincare regime. SUPERIOR SKIN CONDITION: If, like millions of women, your skin bears the evidence of sun damage, acne scars or simply your advancing years, then there are treatments available that can radically improve its appearance. At The Beauty Room in Oakham, Kimberley uses the Crystal Clear microdermabrasion system which delivers a controlled stream of micronised crystals through a nozzle to remove epidermal skin cells layer by layer. The skin is resurfaced

and cell renewal is stimulated, generating new collagen and elastin for a more youthful complexion. It costs £45 for the hour long treatment. For a more intense treatment, you can have pixel skin resurfacing at the Woodlands Hospital in Kettering. This treatment is most beneficial for people with acne scarring, or more mature skin which would benefit from the minor tightening effect it has. By creating tiny ablative zones, a laser is used to remove the epidermis and upper dermis of the skin. The treatment then triggers the body's natural healing process, stimulating the growth of new and healthy skin tissue. Immediately afterwards the skin will appear slightly swollen and will begin to flake as it heals – but the dramatic results will be worth it! STOP PRESS! Fitness Instructor Judith Ewing has announced a change of venue to her fitness classes. From Tuesday April 3rd she will be moving to Oakham Church of England Primary School on Burley Road. The classes will run from 7.15pm - 9.15pm (The Bollywood Dance workout followed by Pilates). • For further enquiries phone Judith on Tel: 07771 866123 or visit her website at judithewingfitness.com

DIRECTORY: Aura Beauty and Cosmetic, 26 The Square, Market Harborough, LE16 7PA, Tel: 01858 462074, www.auraclinic.co.uk Glen-Eden Medical Aesthetics, The Market Cross Surgery, Market Place, Corby Glen, NG33 4NH, Tel: 01476 550056, www.glen-edenmedical.co.uk Woodland Hospital Kettering, Northamptonshire, NN16 8XF, Tel: 01536 414515 - www.woodlandhospital.co.uk Lalique Beauty, 55 South Street, Oakham, LE15 6BG, Tel: 01572 723950, www.lalique-beauty.com The Beauty Room, First Floor, 76 South Street, Oakham, LE15 6BQ, Tel: 01572 755389 (Kimberley is celebrating her 1st anniversary at the salon - so get in touch for details of exciting promotions on nailcare throughout April!) RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING APRIL 2012

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PERSPECTIVES

DISCOVER Rutland Exton Park - Caroline Aston discovers one of the jewels in Rutland’s crown

xton Park, set in a lush parkscape, is the home of the Noel family, who have lived there since the 17th century when the daughter of Sir Baptist Hicks, a London moneylender and contractor for Crown lands, married the first Baron Noel. The Noels were created Earls of Gainsborough in 1682 but the title lapsed in the 18th century and was re-created by Queen Victoria in 1841. Visitors to the parish church in Exton will find themselves in an Aladdin’s cave of outstanding family monuments, including a rare stunner by the famous Grinling Gibbons, commemorating the 4th Viscount Campden, his four wives and nineteen children! Set back just behind the churchyard stands a picturesque ruin: this is the original Exton Hall. Legend has it that at Christmas 1700 there was festive fun and frolics here, including some ill-fated amateur theatricals. A young girl supposedly lay in an oak chest, pretending it was a coffin. Sadly for her the play acting became a reality – she was suffocated. This grisly event is thought to have provided inspiration for a parlour song ‘The Mistletoe Bough’, beloved by Victorian songsters. A further tragedy occurred in 1810 when fire broke out and destroyed the south east wing of the house. The Noel family abandoned the Old Hall and moved into a nearby farmhouse. Wings were added to this in 1840 and 1851 creating the house that Rutlanders know today as Exton Hall. Exton Park has a remarkable royal connection too. Well before the Noel family came on the scene the most powerful family in Rutland was the Harringtons (sometimes spelt Harington). Exton came to them by marriage in the early 1500s. Sir John Harrington found favour with King James I following the death

of Queen Elizabeth I in 1603 and provided hospitality for the new monarch as he travelled from Scotland to London: we know that the new king hunted in Exton Park. Sir John’s reward was a Barony and guardianship of the King’s daughter, Elizabeth Stuart. Sadly, this prestigious office was the ruin of him. The high cost of entertaining ate up his capital and in partial recompense the King granted him the licence to mint brass farthing coins – and that’s where the saying ‘not worth a brass farthing’ comes from! In 1613, Sir John was given his last official job as guardian: escorting Princess Elizabeth from London to Heidelberg where she married the Elector Palatine Frederick V. By then aged 73 poor Sir John was not a well

man and died at Worms in Germany on his way home. In 1619 Elizabeth and her husband were subsequently offered the throne of Bohemia. She was Queen of Bohemia for just one year before Catholic armies invaded and forced Frederick and herself into exile at the Hague. Owing to the briefness of her reign history has forever since known her by the romantic nickname of ‘The Winter Queen’. Some of her magnificent pearls are still in the ownership of HM The Queen and to this day the avenue of trees leading to the twin lodges at the formal gates to Exton Park are known as ‘The Queen of Bohemia’s Ride’, an intriguing reminder of former Rutland power and glory, now long forgotten.

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education

Leicester High Junior Department Your questions answered by Laura Fowler, Head of the Junior Department How big is the Junior Department? There are 7 classes and a total of 113 girls with 8 teachers, 3 teaching assistants, and 5 nursery nurses. The average class size is 20, a third less than most other schools. Staff to pupil ratio is 1:7, which is excellent. Why is it worth going to Leicester High Junior Department? Girls can start school at 3 years old in the Junior Department and stay until they are 18 in the Senior School so there are no difficult transitions to new schools. All the girls are known by the staff and the progress made by every girl is excellent. It is proven that girls gain better results and more confidence being taught together. This increased chance of success continues throughout their careers and lives. What are the fees? Fees start at £2350 per term including lunch. We accept nursery vouchers and provide before and after school care. Will my daughter miss out on not mixing with boys? No, she will be developing in confidence without the distraction of boys. If we ask parents if they feel this is an issue, they always say no! It can be a common misconception of girls’ schools. The reality is that all our girls regularly mix with boys through their family, friends and out of school activities.

What is different about the school? Leicester High Junior Department is a small school where every child is known as an individual and their talents and strengths are identified early and developed. Being part of a bigger school on one site is great because the girls have excellent role models in the Senior girls, and have the opportunity to use the Senior School facilities. We have so many clubs and trips, and we offer a great variety of sport. Leicester High gives girls the best possible start in life.

BEST GCSE RESULTS IN THE COUNTY*

Junior Assessment Day Saturday 19 May 2012

Assessments for pupils aged 3-5

9.30-11.30am

Julia Harbage The Registrar Leicester High School 454 London Road Leicester LE2 2PP

0116 270 5338 enquiries@leicesterhigh.co.uk www.leicesterhigh.co.uk

Leicester High School for Girls is a member of the GSA * The Daily Telegraph Independent School League Table January 2012

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LEARNING

EASTER FUN AT HOME It’s going to involve eggs and chocolate, some of it will be messy, but it will deﬁnitely amuse your children. Charlotte Newby thinks up some creative projects to do at home in the Easter break Chocolate Nests Your children will tell you, quite rightly, that Easter is all about chocolate and there’s no point in arguing with that. So it’s essential to get stuck into some chocolate cooking in order to make the holidays complete. What could be better than some chocolate nests which actually have healthy breakfast cereal in too?! You will need: • 200g milk chocolate • 25g dark chocolate • 25g unsalted butter

Sticky and sickly. Children love them.

• 100g cornﬂakes • Bag of sugar-coated chocolate eggs • Soft yellow chicks Not just for the children.

Melt the chocolate and butter in a bowl over a pan of boiling water. Let it cool on one side for a moment. Pour in the cornﬂakes and mix. Spoon small, nest-shaped piles of the mixture onto a tray lined with baking parchment. As they cool down, they’ll stick together better. Leave in a cool place (not the fridge) until they’re set, then put them on a plate and ﬁll the centre with eggs and chicks.

EGG-SHELL CRESS-HEADS Children love to watch things grow, so inspire their imagination by making a humorous eggshell head with growing cress hair! First you need to take the top off an egg. You can use a boiled egg that’s had the contents eaten out of it, or carefully tap the top off a raw egg with a knife before tipping out the contents. Wash the shell, then your children can draw a face on it. Felt tip pens, permanent pens and acrylic paint all work well. Fill the shell with soil or cotton wool and generously scatter in cress seeds. Dampen with water and pop it in an egg-cup on the window sill. Your children can water it a little every day keeping the surface damp. Within days your crazy cress hair will start sprouting!

How can you fail to smile at this?

Fried egg toast Perfect for Easter breakfast. The children can do the cutting out bits. (This recipe comes from Annabel Karmel’s ‘You Can Cook’ book). You will need: • 2tbs sunﬂower oil • 1 lightly toasted slice of bread Simple to make and very effective.

EASTER BADGES First you need to get some shrink plastic paper. A ‘Craft Shrink Pack (Frosted Shrinkles)’ is available from Colemans for £6.49. There are several A4 sheets in a pack. You may remember ‘Shrinky-dinks’ from boxes of cereal back in the seventies? Well, it’s the same product only in plain paper format so you can make your own designs. First you need to scuff up the paper on one side with sandpaper. Then your children can draw Easter characters on the sheet with pencil: chicks, rabbits, ducks and so on, then colour them in with coloured pencils. You can

• 1 egg • Salt and pepper • Shaped pastry cutter

First heat the oil in a frying pan. Then cut a hole in your toast with the cutter. Put the toast in the pan, and crack the egg into the hole. Turn the heat down to medium and fry gently. Spoon the hot oil over the egg to help it cook. This also makes the bread lovely and crispy. Serve it, together with the buttered cut-out piece.

use permanent marker pens to outline the design. You could cheat by tracing pictures from children’s books. Once the drawing is coloured in and complete, cut it out leaving a small border around the edge. Place on a baking sheet in the oven (149-177 degrees C) for a few minutes until the paper shrinks to about a seventh of its original size. When you take it out of the oven, press it ﬂat with a small chopping board or similar. When it’s cool, glue on a badge pin. Ready to wear! • Colemans, 39 High Street, Stamford PE9 2BB, 01780 480635, www.colemans-online.co.uk

If your children enjoy craft kits, you’ll ﬁnd lots in CallyCo in Stamford. There’s a cute ‘Make Your Own Easter Chicks’ kit for £5.90. In the box, there’s everything you need to make four colourful pompom chicks. Quite straightforward and not messy. A little more advanced is a book showing how to make sock monkeys. ‘Sock Monkey and Friends’ by Samantha Fisher and Cary Lane (£13.90 from CallyCo) includes nine different fun-to-make sock animal projects. It’s really quirky and all the socks, buttons and stufﬁng are included. • CallyCo, 5 Stamford Walk, Stamford PE9 2JE, 01780 753409, www.callyco.com

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Travel

The Isle of Wight With a journey time of only four hours from Oakham to Freshwater Bay, Amander Meade and family discover the delights of the Isle of Wight…

Unique charm… Steeped in history with sixty miles of stunning scenery and a wealth of attractions, the Isle of Wight offers everything from historic sites to natural delights, music festivals to major national events. We discovered the island almost by accident when an opportunity arose to visit a friend’s holiday flat, and immediately fell in love with the island’s unique charm. The moment we boarded the ferry at Lymington, we felt the pace of life change down a gear or two as we scanned the waves for our first proper glimpse. The ferry during high season from Lymington to Yarmouth (return) was £153 – we paid Wightlink with Tesco Vouchers. Half an hour later we arrived in Yarmouth – a charming harbour town packed with restaurants, or you can do as we did, and take in the atmosphere browsing the shops and galleries before walking the pier with fresh fish and chips.

day at Ryde where the beaches at low tide were so expansive and clean that if only we could guarantee the sunshine, the Mediterranean would have no chance. We picnicked by the boating lake, stroked donkeys at the Sanctuary and admired the yachts in Cowes Harbour. The Botanical Gardens at Ventnor were amazing and the girls fell in love with the wallabies at the Seaview Wildlife Sanctuary. Most evenings, we would return to Freshwater and watch the sun go down as the surfers caught the last of the tides. You won’t find any beach front arcades or rip off prices here; you will find superb family days out and thirty miles of heritage coastline to walk plus a slower pace of life and, despite the short ferry ride, a magical detachment from mainland life that creates a very special atmosphere.

winning, wildlife attraction. Be a ‘Keeper for the Day’ with hands on time with rare animals and birds within an unspoiled, natural environment. (Don’t visit if you are not keen on free ranging birds.) Osborne House - £29.90 for a family ticket. Plenty to see and do at this former countryside retreat of Queen Victoria. 342 acres of stunning grounds– don’t miss the Walled Garden, the hot houses of tropical plants or the Swiss Cottage designed for the royal children. The Needles Park – The world famous coloured sand cliffs overlook the island’s most famous landmark – the Needles Rocks and Lighthouse. Visit the park for the spectacular chairlift to the beach. Great for families as admission is free with rides and other attractions pay-as-you go, so you can prioritise your budget.

Great places to go….. Seaview Wildlife Encounter - £29 for a family of four. Easily enough to keep you occupied all day. Family run, this is the Island’s multi-award-

Contacts:

www.wightlink.co.uk or www.redfunnel.co.uk www.englishh-heritage.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/isleofwight

Island Life… The beauty of the island – much like Rutland – is that its size means that everywhere is within a thirty to forty minute drive with no shortage of places to visit. When I speak about the island to friends it seems that almost everyone except me went there as a child and I am assured that very little has changed since. The countryside and beaches are just superb – reminiscent of the best of Devon and Norfolk. Our first problem was motivating ourselves to leave the wonderful Bay of Freshwater where our children (11 and 13 years) were utterly content to explore the rock pools in a sort of ‘crabbing trance’ for literally hours. Rolling back the years to a simpler time, we sat on blankets, drank tea from flasks and shook the sand from our sandwiches, loving every moment. When we did drag ourselves away from Freshwater, we discovered cove after cove of similarly unspoilt beaches and had a superb

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TRAVEL

Boutique Greece Kefalonia

ne of the prettiest Greek islands offering individual hotels, self-catering and private villas is Kefalonia. On the northern tip of this beautiful island is the chocolate box fishing village of Fiscardo. Fiscardo is a small harbour village with some fine tavernas and restaurants and colourful shops situated along winding cobbled streets. The whole village has been carefully preserved and has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and ambience during the summer months. The Alymra Hotel is a small, stylish hotel with a well deserved reputation, privately owned and managed, welcoming couples and families. The hotel offers a good buffet breakfast and has a daytime restaurant serving lunch and snacks; picnic baskets can be provided on request for walkers or those renting a motorboat. A complimentary minibus runs to Fiscardo harbour and also to the nearby Emblissi beach up to four times

daily. From £786.00 per person. For those who prefer Self Catering why not try The Waterfront Apartments in Fiscardo? Oundle Travel have an allocation of two and three bedroomed apartments available now for June departures. From £786.00 per person. Hidden Greece Fly Drive A Fly Drive holiday on the mainland offers the opportunity to discover some of the most beautiful areas of Greece. The richness of the history, scenery and interest here is vast. A fly drive allows you to explore areas rarely featured in holiday brochures and will reward the more independent traveller in search of more adventure than the normal holiday provides. • For expert advice and to book contact Oundle Travel on Tel: 01832 273600. www.oundletravel.co.uk

The Early Bird Catches the Worm.

Nick Edwards advises on when to book your next ski trip “In such times of economic uncertainty, we are conditioned to ensure we purchase at the very best price. Increasingly this is evident in the late ski market with many clients waiting until the very last minute to bag a ski deal. Now, whilst this policy isn’t something to be sniffed at, it does possess large risks for many of us. If you are two ”empty nesters” who can travel at the drop of a hat from any of a selection of airports and have no preconceptions on resort, then a last minute deal may well suit. If you are tied to school holidays/peak dates, however, or are looking for a specific location/property or even standard of accommodation, then often you can find yourself bitterly disappointed and also paying over the odds. Prices can and do rise again in the ‘lates’ market as the tour operators’ yield departments keep a very keen eye on the market place. Early bookers benefit from “early-bird” promotional offers plus they have the very best selection of availability. Marry this with the ability to take your time over making a decision, rather than a hurried last minute purchase, and all in all it can result in a very harmonious way to plan your next ski trip. This scenario is further highlighted if you are looking for a ski hotel as opposed to a catered chalet. Late availability on the hotels is always restricted and late offers are difficult to find, yet by contrast the early booking deals are far more abundant. This year we are seeing some fantastic offers from ski providers determined to attract good levels of early sales. Early booking offers include up to £140.00 off per person in conjunction with early-bird prices for all-inclusive hotels, free lift pass offers on selected catered chalets, free child places in child-care orientated chalets and hotels, and many more. It is also worthwhile bearing in mind that tour operators bring out their lowest prices for next season now. Then, through the course of the summer they will gradually increase prices only to then discount them at the last minute. Often you will find that the £100.00/£150.00 discount you received on a last minute deal is overall still more than the original early booking price!” Snow Finders are passionate about locating the perfect holiday to suit your requirements and budget and there is no better time for them to achieve this than with early booking clients. If your holiday time is precious then call Snow Finders now. • Contact: Nick Edwards, Snow Finders www.snowfinders.co.uk, Tel: 01858 466888

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Out and about

Some of the Best

Regional Family

Days Out

This area has many houses of heritage and great gardens to visit and most of them open during the spring. With special events scheduled throughout the season, Amander Meade discovers what is planned for Easter and beyond Burghley House, Stamford - What’s there? Superb Elizabethan architecture, stunning interiors with fantastic expansive grounds including the Sculpture Garden and the Garden of Surprises. Easter Fun – The Burghley Easter Egg Hunt on a trail around the gardens. Complete the trail and find all the families of fluffy chicks to claim a full sized Easter egg. Takes place on Easter Sunday 8 April. Also this month the private South Gardens are open to the public for the magnificent display of spring bulbs from Monday 2 to Friday 20 April. Events season includes: NGS Open Gardens, courses, workshops, living heritage events, food and craft fairs, flower festival, the Battle Proms and of course, the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials. • www.burghley.co.uk Tel: 01780 752451 Rockingham Castle - What’s there? A remarkable castle packed full of fascinating history, built on the instruction of William the Conqueror and home to generations of the same family for over 450 years. Beautiful formal gardens and lots of open grounds for younger visitors to play in. Easter Fun – Children’s Easter Egg Hunts take place on Easter Sunday and Monday 8 and 9 April. Wonderful family fun for the Easter weekend with a hunt for tokens to be exchanged for eggs plus a British Wildlife search and family quiz. Events season includes: Jousting, Reenactments, Falconry, Rolls Royce rally, Open Air Theatre, Steam and Family Show, Country Fair, Victorian Christmas. • www.rockinghamcastle.co.uk Tel: 01536 770240

plus a Mini Chick Trail for toddlers (pushchair friendly.) Prizes for junior participants plus Springtime Crafts in the Discovery Centre. Events season includes: Bulb Planting, ‘Paint the Garden’, Open-air Theatre, Living History Weekends, Food Fayres, Garden tours, Halloween Trail, Christmas Craft Market, Wildlife Explorers’ Club (monthly). • www.nationaltrust.org.uk/belton Tel: 01476 566116 Rutland Water Nature Reserve What’s there? The Reservoir offers superb cycle routes around the water, sailing, rafting, canoeing, windsurfing plus a climbing wall and high ropes. Events season includes: Egleton Wildlife sanctuary offer a year round programme of events including holiday workshops. Essential for all budding naturalists. Don’t forget Birdfair - the biggest event of its kind in the world takes place on the shores of Rutland Water each August. • Tel: 01780 460060 or www.rutlandcycling.com Barnsdale Gardens - What’s there? With thirty eight individual gardens in an eight acre site, it’s no wonder Barnsdale has been

described as a ‘theme park for gardeners’. Tea rooms serving homemade refreshments, plants and gifts on sale. Easter fun – Easter Egg Hunts take place on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday 6-9 April. Hunt for tokens which can be redeemed for a small Easter egg in the tearoom. Events season includes: Family friendly events are planned for Father’s Day, Wildlife days, Arts and Crafts Fair, Music in the Gardens, Meet the Bees, Croquet and Pimms, Willow Weaving, Japanese Garden Day, Garden History Day and Feed the Birds in winter. Many seasonal courses, workshops and watercolour painting days. • Tel: 01572 813 200 www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk Deene Park. What’s there? A historic house and gardens – once owned by the 7th Earl of Cardigan who led the charge of the Light Brigade at Balaklava. Easter Fun – Sunday 8 and Monday 9 April the lakeside gardens are open with their displays of wonderful spring flora. Events Season includes: Garden based events such as NGS Open Days and tours with the Head Gardener throughout the gardening seasons. • Tel: 01780 450278 www.deenepark.com

Belton House - What’s there? The House itself was built in 1685 for Sir John Brownlow and is described as ‘the perfect English country house.’ Outside discover the truly superb adventure playground – the largest in Lincolnshire plus plant and garden shop and a miniature railway. Easter Fun - An Easter Trail in the gardens on Easter Saturday and Sunday 7 and 8 April RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING APRIL 2012

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DIARY DATES

What’s On Amander Meade selects some of the best entertainment in the region this month

Saturday 31 March to Saturday 28 April EXHIBITION: Anne Mette Hjortshoj – New Pots This will be Danish potter Anne Mette’s ﬁrst solo show in the UK and she brings with her a unique style that will surprise and delight those new to her work. Anne Mette trained at the School Of Design in Denmark before working with the celebrated British potter Phil Rogers who taught her the ‘art of hard graft’. Anne has developed an individual, relaxed-looking style which belies the skill required. • Goldmark Gallery, Uppingham Admission is free. www.goldmarkart.com

Sunday 1 April, 9.30am-4.30pm COURSE: Spring Flower Photography Hemant Jariwala returns to Barnsdale with his popular ﬂower photography course, focusing on subjects that are in their prime in the spring. This course is ideal for both occasional and enthusiastic photographers. Price £67, including buffet lunch. • Tel: 01572 813200 for details of all events and courses at Barnsdale or visit www. barnsdalegardens.co.uk

Monday 2 to Saturday 7 April, 7.30pm THEATRE: Footloose Rutland Musical Theatre present their most ambitious show to date. Footloose is full of fantastic songs and breathtaking dance, and tells the story of a small community rocked by the arrival of a young hot shot from Chicago who tries to rewrite local law. • Uppingham Theatre Tickets are priced £12 to £15 from Freeway Travel, Uppingham or Tel: 01572 822702

Sunday 8 and Monday 9 April EVENT: Easter Eggstravaganza Meet the Easter Bunny, join in the Great Easter Egg Hunt, egg and spoon races, egg painting, bottle feed the lambs and cuddle the spring chicks as well as all the usual farm attractions. Acres of beautiful walks plus indoor and outdoor play areas. • West Lodge Rural Centre, Desborough Family Ticket £19 Tel: 01536 760552 www. westlodgeruralcentre.co.uk

Tuesday 10 April, 7.30pm COMEDY: Paul Merton – Out Of My Head Discover the bizarre workings of Paul Merton’s brain, as he muses on the mighty behemoth that is his noggin. Paul returns to his stand-up roots for the ﬁrst time this century. A night of sketches, music, magic, variety and dancing girls (two of them aren’t girls). • De Montfort Hall. Tickets from £20 Tel: 0116 2333 111 or www.demontforthall.co.uk

Wednesday 11 April, 7.30pm INAUGURAL MEETING: The Red Hat Society Fans of the poem “When I am old I shall wear purple..” will love a new society about to launch in Rutland led by Tessa Angell. Red Hatters is now a worldwide phenomenon based on having fun, making new friends and not being held back by boundaries of age. Tessa would like any local ladies who are interested to come along. • The Falcon Hotel, Uppingham More information at www.redhatters-uk.com

owner and shipped off to Europe, young Bertie vows he will see his friend again. Little does he realise the adventurous, romantic, shocking turns his life will take before that momentous day ﬁnally comes. • Curve Theatre, Leicester Tickets from £5 Tel: 0116 242 3595 or www.curveonline.co.uk

Wednesday 11 April, 7.30pm for 8pm start EVENT: Ashley Film Night This month the ﬁlm stars Gerard Depardieu and Gisele Casadesus. ‘My Afternoons with Margueritte’ is a story about a retired, well educated and articulate lady who is befriended by Germain, a likeable and somewhat coarse and ill educated labourer. • Ashley Village Hall Tickets £5 Tel: 01858 565410

Thursday 12 to Saturday 21 April THEATRE: The Butterﬂy Lion by Michael Morpurgo When the orphaned white lion cub he has rescued from the African Veld is sold to a circus

Sunday 15 April, 10am to 5pm EVENT: Antique Brocante Uppingham Town Partnership has invited ﬁfty of the region’s antique dealers and specialists to sell their wares in the Market Place, Crown Yard and High Street East. This is the ﬁrst French style Antiques Brocante to be held in Uppingham and organisers hope it will be popular with residents and visitors alike. • For more information Tel: 01572 822334 RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING APRIL 2012

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DIARY DATES

Tuesday 17 April, 10.30am to 4pm EVENT: Heritage Garden Day In support of the ﬁrst National Gardening Week, Kelmarsh are hosting a day in the gardens to give visitors the chance to have their questions answered through an advice clinic run by the experts from the RHS. In addition, there will be plant stalls, demonstrations, talks and a seed swap. There will be something for everyone; from the more experienced to those who are new to gardening. The day includes cooking in the gardens, a tour of the walled kitchen garden with a talk about the restoration of the gardens and the repair of the walls, a display of garden photographs showcasing the gardens in the past, house tours with lunches and afternoon teas in the tea room. • Kelmarsh Hall, Northamptonshire. Admission is £5 (Free to RHS members) For details visit www.kelmarsh.com or Tel: 01604 686543.

– her dramatic rise from Paris street urchin to international star is the stuff of legend. • Uppingham Theatre. Tickets from £13 Tel: 01572 820820 or www.uppthearts.co.uk

Friday 11 May, 7pm EVENT: A Night at the Races A fundraising evening for the RNLI at the wonderfully refurbished Falcon Hotel. Eight races with supper available at the interval. Lots of fun in support of a great cause. • Admission is free. The Falcon Hotel, Uppingham

Wednesday 2 May, 7pm EVENT: Art Lecture by Peter Welton Peter is Emeritus Professor of Fine Art at De Montfort University and has pictures in many esteemed collections including the Queen’s. He will speak on ‘Water Colours’ and some of his own will be on display and for sale. This event is in support of WaterAid Rutland. • Wing Village Hall. Tickets £15 per person to include wine and canapés. Contact Charlotte Baker Tel: 01572 787282

Saturday 21 April, 7.30pm CONCERT: Music in Lyddington The second in this year’s popular concert series features the Sacconi Quartet who will be accompanied by viola player Silvia Simionescu to play three of Mozart’s pioneering viola quintets. St Andrew’s Church, Lyddington • Tickets in advance £14, Students £2 from Stamford Music Shop, Music & More Oakham, Uppingham Sports & Books or www.wegottickets.com

Friday 27 April, 7.30pm CONCERT: Oakham School Chamber Choir An evening of inspirational music in a beautiful and intimate setting. The award winning Chamber Choir will perform works by Vivaldi, Gabriel Fauré and songs by John Ireland and George Gershwin. • Morcott Church. Tickets £10 each with proceeds shared between Morcott Church and Village Hall. Contact Alison Johnson Tel: 01572 747381 tickets.

Friday 4 May, 7.30pm MUSIC: Piaf – The Songs Eve Loiseau sings the songs of Edith Piaf. Synonymous with French cabaret of the 1940s and 50s, Piaf remains France’s most popular singer. The show includes a narrative of her life

Friday 20 April, 7.30pm COMEDY: Mark Steel’s In Town Following his highly acclaimed, Sony Awardwinning and Writers Guild Award-winning Radio 4 comedy show, on this tour Mark will write material shedding light on the quirkiness and interesting aspects of every town and city he visits, allowing each show to be unique - something local audiences up and down the country will devour and enjoy. Please note this show is recommended for ages 14 and over. • The Core Theatre, Corby Tickets are £14.50/£12.50 Tel: 01536 470470 www.thecorecorby.com

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• RL April ADS.indd 41

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Advertisement Feature

SAVOUR A BRAND NEW SLICE OF STILTON VILLAGE LIFE A niche courtyard development of new homes by a local developer is bringing a former farmyard site bang up to date in the centre of one of the area’s historic villages

evelopment sites in pretty and historic villages are scarce and are closely guarded by civic and local authorities. So when an opportunity comes forward, it’s something that a developer – especially one with an afﬁnity in the county – cannot afford to ignore. That was the situation in which Huntingdonshire-based Amesview Developments, found itself a couple of years ago, just as the housing downturn was beginning, when a small development site of just under half an acre in the centre of the village of Stilton came to its attention. The attraction of the location and exclusivity of a site with such a small number of brand new homes ideally suited the Amesview Developments portfolio. It acquired the site and began to build the new homes last year. The development, known as The Old Stackyard, has now completed and has been launched for sale. What Amesview Developments has built on this former yard of derelict outbuildings, off Church Street and to the north of Manor Farm House is, according to property consultancy Carter Jonas - who are acting as agent in selling the newly completed detached and terraced 3 and 4 bedroom homes - a model example of what brand new developments in a village should be. To many, Stilton is a picture perfect example of traditional village life. It lies within the historic

church of St Mary’s. county boundaries of Huntingdonshire and the No talk of Stilton is complete without modern day boundaries of Cambridgeshire and mentioning cheese and while all Stilton cheese is the local authority is Huntingdonshire District factory-made these days, it’s always done so with Council. locally produced milk. Stilton is mentioned in The Domesday Book The annual Cheese Rolling Championship is of 1086 and its commercial growth stems from held every May Day when crowds gather its importance as a staging post on the to watch teams in fancy dress guide Great North Road which was the Prices their Stilton cheeses down the original coaching route from London start from village streets. The event includes to Edinburgh and corresponds, £199,995 rising maypole dancing and live music roughly, to the modern day A1(M) to £329,995 and is the highlight of the village’s route. The village has retained four for the largest, social calendar. of its ‘coaching’ inns and although 4-bedroom But when city life calls, Stilton each has been modernised down properties. has a choice location for the daythe centuries, all remain at the heart to-day realities of modern life: just six of village life.And there’s a lot of village miles south of Peterborough, 33 miles northlife about Stilton which has endured down west of Cambridge and 70 miles north of the the years, in times which have taken their toll on metropolis of London via excellent road and rail amenities and the fabric of equivalent English connections. villages. Not so in Stilton. It still has a thriving Yet feedback on The Old Stackyard from casual village centre focused on its central and sweeping visitors and purchasers in the market looking to thoroughfare of North Street and High Street buy a contemporary, family home is that while it’s Its ‘village-shop’ is still the hub of the village the convenient location attracting them to look at on North Street. Called Stilton Stores, it’s as the development, it’s the draw of village life which well-stocked as many of the metro-style miniwill convince them to buy and settle in Stilton. supermarkets in town and city centres. The post • The Old Stackyard, Church Street, Stilton ofﬁce is within the shop and the premises extend PE7 3RF. For more information contact Louise to include a pharmacy. Fox, Carter Jonas in Peterborough, The primary school, Stilton Church of England Tel 01733 588600 primary school, is, appropriately enough, on Church Street and is afﬁliated to the village

www.theoldstackyardstilton.com 42

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WRITER’S CORNER

ANOTHER LETTER HOME Jeremy Beswick advises on visiting Rutland

Dear Jim,

IELD.COM PHOTO: DAVIDCORF

letter and nd. Thanks for the a few days in Rutla ng on for y ba sta n’t to uld ng wo I mi you’re co but if I were you ar, ye is th Delighted to hear y ltr pa city bonus being so sorry about your when you get here. ch the about it too mu dia. You may feel to survival in arca ide al gu d aw dr tte th po wi a s parting to avoid ted, there follow arbucks before de St Anyway, as reques d an lds na ly. Do several Mc e in plentiful supp need to partake of and real coffee ar said Otters’ r, proper burgers ve we other day. When I Ho e . th ms ed to ss cro symp s re wi r anks for the ou t seems we go the local deli. So th I mention this as it t it’s the name of ou int po to t go bad, I for meat wasn’t that need, really. but there was no er mp ha ’s um Fortn rry on. I realise t your eyes and hu er av t jus ble, n’t do t stree or b) mentally unsta d Morning” in the a charity collector a) e be If you’re bid “Goo u’r to r yo he d se eit ali o hasn’t re med the greeter t it’s just a local wh th you will have assu grenade but in fac a “Can I get mayo wi of in n as sio t” es ss ge I po an “C u, yo day. ld probably in e ou nic sh a Cool. Ditto have e says, and neither t American. Ditto e sky no a Londoner. No on e blu ar ry, ey dia th my ow use they kn ses. Window in ra ph e rit ou you fav r that?”. This is beca at k ur othe ey’ll just loo oiding some of yo ment nonsense. Th ge na ma I’d recommend av at th of rming and the rest thinking, brainsto . e slightly deranged u’r yo if t in with pity as the local dialect no rds and phrases in wo l e ra for ve be se e e tis ar e ac u’re right; ther tionary and pr Do them up in the dic Conversely, yes yo l. k na loo u tio yo op t T es NO gg is ndon. Su me. Queuing common use in Lo k you and Excuse ck cab rank (will lude Please, Than inc ey round station or bla rg Th e. de riv un t ar es ar you ne e th to r). ns for directio commit to pape not ask a passer-by e too shocking to e – the reasons ar riv ar u yo en wh explain e to be s in the country ar the finest real ale of cask me y So zz fi er. st be ain ourite topic several years ag A word on our fav ved. This ned tirelessly for mo aig re mp be ca to g r vin kle ha ar ally, for the sp found here. Ironic e fizz back in. Ask ettles”. heads, they put th minutes whilst it “s 20 an th s les beers with foamy in t pin ur “Fruit” this is yo ply ng re ivi u rece r one and they de or u yo If will also result in yo T. G& l a slice of lemon. al to the occasiona asking if you’d like of I know you’re parti y wa nd tla Ru simply the g. not an accusation, ck is always wron en – the church clo ok br s s wa ha it – lex Ro nd y. We don’t mi o thinking your it’s right twice a da Don’t be misled int en Th . ed e? pp er sto th mpletely nutes here or Except when it’s co d what’s a few mi e the Civil War an for be de ma ly ab prob new Barbour ur suggestion of a yo st ain ag l se and un t I’d co th your man-bag want to “fit in” bu al farmer, what wi loc a ur for It’s great that you yo ss pa an l th u’l re modest s. It’s not as if yo be 5,000 times mo who and pair of Hunter with folk here is to ng cket to someone alo cri t g ge kin to tal y s wa ur ho o tw t en all. The best sp Ve I . ed t for England ry er. When I first arriv ntury on their debu ce a average southern ing or sixth. sc ion roics for the lower glected to ment with tales of my he unaccountably ne him g lin ga re d lle en I reca embarrassing wh ntor and Sherpa. ing your rural me I look forward to be , n of beers to come Yours, in anticipatio

Ru pert

t to lations. Don’t forge n’t need any inocu do u yo re su am I PS Yes, ng by car. Even if you’re comi

rough. change at Peterbo

jeremy_beswick@hotmail.com RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING APRIL 2012

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MOTORING

Peter Muffett

BUILDING ON TRADITION Jaguar is closing in fast on other premium car manufacturers and Peter Muffett, General Manager of Marshall Jaguar of Peterborough, is keen to tell you why. Words and pics: David Corfield

REAT BRITISH ICONS don’t come much better than Jaguar. The very mention of the name is enough to turn men of a certain age weak at the knees, with images of E-Types and glamorous film stars drifting through the semiconscious. Peter Muffett knows all about this. He’s the General Manager of Marshall Jaguar in Cambridge and Peterborough and is not only in the business of selling cars, but selling dreams too. “I love people. I love getting to know a customer and I love looking after them,” he smiles. “I’m lucky in that I am with a brand that is re-energised, with new models and new customers coming in to see what all the fuss is about. It’s a brilliant time to become a Jaguar owner and I can’t tell you how excited I am about what’s coming up in the future. We sell a brand that has been built on luxury, speed and quality; and selling that dream ticket, in today’s trouble-filled world, is not only a pleasure, but also a privilege. I like to make people happy.” Peter’s enthusiasm is infectious, and clearly this is a guy who has his finger very much on the local pulse. A Cambridgeshire guy, with family roots in Newmarket, he started off as a young apprentice with Ford before embarking on a business studies course and working his way up the corporate ladder. “I’ve worked with a few different car makes over the years, but Jaguar is the best and the one that I am most enthusiastic about.” We walk around the dealership and I see why he’s so excited. The cars positively ooze quality,

MARSHALL MOTOR GROUP

Marshall Motor Group was founded over 100 years ago in Cambridge and now has 71 dealership businesses across the country from Cumbria to Hertfordshire. Marshall remains family-owned and privately-funded and has over 2,000 colleagues. With a current annual turnover of more than £700m, Marshall is a Top 10 Dealer Group in the UK and the second largest privately owned.

with glossy paintwork and immaculate interiors inviting you to touch, stroke, and enjoy. The cat may be just a symbol, an icon indeed, but in the cars the feline qualities of a Jaguar definitely connect with you as you soak up the mood. “Jaguar is the strongest it has ever been and we’re now starting to bring a younger customer into the arena, but that’s not at the expense of our existing ones. Loyalty and after-sales care is absolutely key to the success of Marshall and we work hard in making sure that the customer feels valued, cared for and understood. One of my most loyal customers has been with us for 35 years, always buying Jaguar, and we are seeing more and more of that now as people discover not just how good the car is, but, I hope, how good we are as a company. We are now sixth in the country in terms of quality and satisfaction, and I’m very proud of that fact. Our customers keep on coming back.” Peter has only recently been in charge of

the Marshall Peterborough dealership, starting there in September last year, and as a general manager he is responsible for extending the reach of Jaguar and working with local businesses in creating exciting after-sales events which allow people to get close to the brand, and to experience the thrill. “It’s all about the experience,” he reveals. “And that’s the secret to selling cars – offering an experience that a customer will never forget. We frequently take our customers to evening shows and weekend events such as track days and factory visits – and they love it. When you buy a premium niche car such a Jaguar, you’re buying yourself a passport to luxury. We are always looking to communicate with our customers and even if the purchase is a year away, we want to get to know them and offer them the best possible car for their needs.” Peter’s care over his customers is just as evident with his colleagues, too. Marshall is a forward-thinking company with family values and it’s clear that every member of the team is as enthusiastic as Peter about both the product and the business. “I’m not sat here managing behind a PC or an email,” he points out. “I treat my employees as I would a customer. The best way of communicating is to walk the floor. And I tell you what, looking out there at those fantastic cars, it’s not a bad floor to be walking on, is it?” Marshall Peterborough, Mallory Road, Boongate, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE1 5AU. Tel: 0844 334 9130 www.marshallweb.co.uk

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING APRIL 2012

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THIS IS MARSHALL JAGUAR

Situated in Peterborough, our dealership is equipped to deal with all your Jaguar needs. From the exciting new Jaguar range featuring groundbreaking technology and industry firsts, to Approved used vehicles maintained to the standards set by the engineers who built them. Enjoy all the expertise and knowledge of our Jaguar Academy trained technicians and with a range of exhilarating accessories to enhance the feeling of owning a Jaguar, make sure that you visit Marshall Jaguar Peterborough.

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

MARSHALL VOLVO SALES, SERVICE & PARTS

SCAN WITH YOUR QR READER APP TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE

WHY TRUST YOUR VOLVO TO ANYBODY ELSE? From the new Volvo range, to Approved used vehicles right through to service and repairs, visit Marshall Volvo and expect nothing less than a first class service as standard.

Marshall Volvo Of Peterborough 7 Mallory Road, Boongate, Peterborough PE1 5AU 0844 411 9751 45

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SHOPS & SERVICES

Tax Implications of renting out your property Last month we featured an Article about Making Money from your Property. Now Andrew Cross from Arcus Taxation Accountants offers advice on the Tax Implications of renting out your property

here are always tax implications to consider before deciding whether to rent out part or your entire home to a tenant. Failure to inform HM Revenues & Customs of income from rental properties could incur fines and penalties. Below we address some of the common concerns. How do I calculate how my rental income is taxed? You need to pay income tax on any profit made from renting out a property you own. This is calculated by adding together all your rental income and deducting all your allowable expenses. The net rental income is also known as the rental profit. The tax is payable to HM Revenue & Customs. What are the allowable expenses that I can deduct from the rental income when I am calculating the rental profit? Common allowable expenditure includes accountancy and agents fees, maintenance, mortgage interest, repairs and redecorations. Remember part of your responsibilities is keeping detailed records of income and expenditure. HMRC may want to see these records. The records need to be kept for a minimum of 6 years. How do I declare the property income I receive to HM Revenue & Customs? You must notify HMRC of any rental income you receive. You will usually be required to complete a Self Assessment Tax Return if you receive money from renting out a property. If the rental profit if less than £2,500 you may not need to complete a Tax Return (assuming you do not already do so) & HMRC may be able to collect taxes payable though the PAYE system. You will need to speak to your local Tax Office to arrange this. What tax rate will I pay on the rental income? Your net rental income (the rental profit) is added to your other sources of income to determine whether it is taxed at 20%, 40% or 50%. I’m planning to rent a room in my home to a lodger do I need to pay tax? Renting out a room in your house can be a good way of making extra money, tax-free. The Rent a Room Scheme allows you to receive up to £4,250 gross income each year from lodgers tax-free. To qualify you must let furnished residential accommodation in your main residency. If you charge tenants extras for cleaning, laundry or meals this must be added to the rent received when you calculate the gross rent. Expenses cannot be deducted. If you receive more than £4,250 gross income you can choose either to pay tax on the profits in the normal way (by paying tax on your actual profit after deducting expenses) or pay tax on the gross income less the £4,250 limit, with no allowance for expenses. You can opt not to use the scheme if you’d prefer to pay tax via Self Assessment.

I own a foreign property. Do I need to tell HMRC about the rental income I receive? If you live and pay tax in the UK you must tell HMRC about any sources of income you receive from your overseas properties. You are taxed in the same way as you would be on a UK property. You calculate the gross rental income and deduct the allowable expenses, you then pay tax on the net rental income. I rent out my UK property whilst I am living and working abroad. Do I need to pay tax on the rental income I receive? If you decide to rent out your home whilst you live abroad you will pay income tax on the property in the same way as you would if you resided in the UK. If you rent the property through a letting agent tax is deducted at 20% on quarterly basis which is paid to HMRC. Alternatively you can apply to HMRC to receive the rent without a deduction of tax. You will then need to complete a Self Assessment Tax Return showing the rental income. You should bear in mind that a UK national would normally be entitled to a personal tax free allowance which can be set against the income. Andrew Cross is Director at Arcus Taxation Accountants in Knights Yard, Oakham. If you have any questions about Renting out your property or completing your Self Assessment Tax Return, you can contact him on Tel: 01572 770552 or at www.arcus-tax.co.uk

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING APRIL 2012

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ACCOUNTANTS Teamwork and success – can we help? Do come and talk to us... We work closely with individuals and businesses alike, to provide not only a wide range of accountancy and taxation services specific to their requirements but also financial and business advice geared to them achieving their objectives. 5-6 Maiden Lane, Stamford, PE9 2AZ Tel: +44 (0) 1780 761920 Email: service@hunterstevens.co.uk

CURTAINS & BLINDS

Quality Hand Made Curtains and Blinds Complete service from measuring to hanging. Track fitting available. Alterations undertaken. Kingfisher Close, Oakham Julie 01572 757893

Curtains Complete

Trading in nearly new curtains over 150 pairs of curtains on show

CARPENTRY SERVICES

HAND PAINTED FURNITURE

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call for a free no obligation quote W Av ork ai sho la p bl s e

www.paintedout.co.uk or call

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open: tuesday 9.30am – 3.00pm or monday – saturday by appointment

‘a safe place to talk’

Stamford Pregnancy Advice Centre

Telephone: 01780 765853 or 07913 052159 Email: alternativesstamford@btconnect.com Address: Stamford Hospital site, Ryhall Road, Stamford, PE9 1YA

STORAGE

Rutland Self Store Secure container storage between Stamford & Oakham

01780 460465 www.rutlandselfstore.co.uk

HEALTH AND FITNESS

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Direct: 07805 751208

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the Hall, Back lane, east Farndon, nr market Harborough. le16 9se Tel: 01858 466671 www.curtainscomplete.co.uk

1st & 2nd Fix Carpentry • Alterations • Flooring Velux Windows • Rotten Window & Door Repairs Attic Conversions • Locks • Partition Walls & Ceilings Commercial & Residential

PREGNANCY ADVICE Pregnant? Need to talk?

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PERSONAL FITNESS TRAINER • Exercise and nutritional advice and management • Dance and Fitness classes • Bride to Be Personal Training • 25 years experience

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01572 767238 07960 003028 fmpowell@btinternet.com

To place an advert in next month’s magazine please call Tracy on 01572 813187

www.judithewingfitness.com

• RMHL April.indd 46

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PR NEW IC E

Harringworth A delightful listed stone built Farmhouse located in the heart of the village and offering well proportioned family living accommodation with a wealth of authentic character features, such as stone mullioned windows, exposed ceiling beams and feature fireplaces to all the three reception rooms. Listed Stone Farmhouse Wealth Of Character ● 3 Reception Rooms ● 4 Double Bedrooms ●

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Breakfast Kitchen

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Large Barn, Lovely Garden

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Asking Price £525,000

A beautifully presented four-bedroom detached family residence offering bright and spacious living accommodation arranged over two floors, including a contemporary open-plan Kitchen / Breakfast Room Detached Family Home Well Presented Accommod. ● Three Reception Rooms ● Kitchen / Breakfast Room ● ●

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Utility Room, Cloakroom

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4 Beds, Ensuite, Fam Bath

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Asking Price £450,000

Seaton A substantial stone individually constructed property built in a Barn Conversion style to an exacting standard throughout, situated next to the village church within an exclusive Church Farm Development in the centre of this premium Rutland village. 2 Reception Rooms 5 Bedrooms (3 En Suites) ● Exclusive Development ● Hi-Spec Throughout ●

A very fine stone byuiklt house under a Collyweston slate roof. The property has a beautifully symmetrical facade, typical of the Queen Anne style, with earlier parts dating back tot he early 17th Century ●

5 Reception Rooms

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5 Bedrooms (2 En-Suite)

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Asking Price £999,000

W LA IT ND H Character Farmhouse 1.75 A Gardens & Grounds ● 4 Reception Rooms ● Kitchen / Diner, ●

Offers Considered £579,000

A sympathetically refurbished period property benefiting from bright and spacious living accommodation over two floors. The property offers many of the original features including open fireplaces and Stone mullioned windows Period Property Fully Refurbished ● Three Reception Rooms ● Four Bedrooms 1 En-suite ● ●

Wardley A rare opportunity to acquire a substantial village property situated in a stunning rural location in the gardens and grounds of approximately 1.75 acres. The property is built of Stone under a Collyweston Slate roof and dates back to the 17th Century. ●

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Ketton

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Kitchen/Breakfast Room

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Courtyard Garden

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Asking Price £439,000

BE A VI UT EW IF S UL

Fine Queen Anne Style Country House Refurbished Throughout ● Array of Character Features ● Extensive Accommodation ●

Double Garage

North Luffenham

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PR NEW IC E

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Stretton

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4 Dbl Bedrooms,1 En Suite

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Outdoor Swim Pool, Stable

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Asking Price £845,000

North Luffenham Settings House has been converted & extended by the current owners creating a spacious & well proportioned country residence, utilising traditional craftsmanship & quality fittings throughout Detached Family Home Wealth Of Character ● Lovely Rural Views ● Farmhouse Kitchen ● ●

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4 Bedrooms, En-suite

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Lounge, Family Room & Study

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Asking Price £695,000

Thorpe Satchville A rare opportunity has arisen to purchase a charming property forming a significant part of Thorpe Satchville Hall and providing elegant and spacious family accommodation with many fine period features Detached Period Property Fine Period Features ● Beautifully Presented ● 2 Rec. Rooms, Conservatory ● ●

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4 Good-Size Bedrooms

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Approx.1.5 A Grounds

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Asking Price £595,000

• RL April ADS.indd 48

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