Stamford Living February 2025

STAMFORD LIVING

THIS EDITION INCLUDES:

Big Interview: Tara Carlile-Swift of Freckleface Home Fragrance

Fashion: Fabulous Prom Dresses from Anna Couture

Molecey Mill: An Exquisite Place for a Wedding

Design led...

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THE TEAM

This magazine has been created by the team at Local Living, PO Box 208, Stamford PE9 9FY

PUBLISHER & EDITOR

FEBRUARY 2025

Do you suffer from using your favourite word of acclaim too often? Experience suggests that we tend to gravitate around a favourite word when it comes to positivity. Here on the editorial team, Clare’s favourite word is ‘lovely’ (there were quite a few peppered through the magazine, but, since reading this, she’s been through with a red pen and deleted a few!), whilst Nick specialises in superlatives – ‘best ever’ especially get big groans from the family when he pulls it out.

But as we look up at the older generation and down to the younger one, we realise what a proliferation of words of acclaim there now are. Examples include ‘top-notch’ and ‘splendid’ from our parents’ generation, ‘ace’ from the 1980s, ‘epic’ from the 1990s, ‘awesome’ from the 2000s, and now ‘sick’ and even ‘burnt’, which our youngest, Ned (12), uses to describe a particularly neat scooter technique.

There can be confusion from a word having a totally different meaning to its original one – ‘sick’, for example. Similarly, ‘brat’ has had a good run in the last year to mean independent-spirted, a touch rebellious and cool. Not at all the way we used to use it at school!

Whatever your favourite word of acclaim is, we hope you get lots of it in February.

Editors, Nicholas & Clare

Website: www.stamfordandrutlandliving.co.uk

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Nicholas Rudd-Jones | 01780 765571 nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk

EDITOR & EDITORIAL DESIGN

Clare Rudd-Jones

ADVERTISEMENT SALES

Rutland & Market Harborough

Tracy Watkinson 01572 813187 | tracy@bestlocalliving.co.uk

Stamford Claudia Bayley 07876 171063 | claudia.bayley@btinternet.com

ADVERTISEMENT PRODUCTION

Ad Copy Manager: Rachel Beecroft Ad Designer: Sarah Patterson

Please note that this magazine now also incorporates Nene Valley Living & Market Harborough Living.

This magazine has been printed by our local printers, Warners of Bourne, on FSC® certified paper from sustainable and other controlled sources.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Annual rate £45 (UK only) for 12 issues. Please write to the Publisher at Local Living Ltd, with £45 cheque payable to Local Living or go online to buy your subscription at www.stamfordandrutlandliving.co.uk

COVER

Stamford Living: Tara & Noah Carlile-Swift of Freckleface Home Fragrance (see p58) Rutland Living: Oakham School (see p84)

In-Store Consultations available Home Design Service, by Appointment

Wide range of accessories to complete your chosen look!

Visit our website www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk Professional Design Service

6 MARKET PLACE UPPINGHAM RUTLAND LE15 9QH 01572 823389 info@sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk • www.facebook.com/sarahhardinginteriorsltd

@sarahhardinginteriorsltd

5 The Maltings, Mill Street, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6EA T: 01572 722666 E: heidi@heidikjeldsen.co.uk

Image courtesy of William Yeoward

Lapis Lazuli and Gold Intense and elegant

THE FEBRUARY LANDSCAPE

WE LOVE this atmospheric foggy shot of Clipsham Yew Tree Avenue by Helen Smithson, an artist, photographer and illustrator based in Rutland. The avenue’s future has recently been safeguarded by a £115,000 National Lottery fund to preserve the trees and restore lost topiary designs.

The avenue was once the carriage driveway to Clipsham Hall, and its first topiary was crafted in 1870 by the estate’s head forester. Over the years more individual designs were developed to commemorate national events and people of interest, but in recent years the avenue has become overgrown and in danger of being lost forever. The Clipsham Yew Tree Avenue Trust was set up in 2018 to safeguard the historic site. You can find out more and donate via the website below.

Designs to be restored include the Millennium celebrations, the 1969 moon landings, Concorde, a Spitfire, a horse, Rutland’s independence in 1997, and several designs to celebrate the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.

yewtreeavenue.co.uk

photo: helen smithson www.helensmithson.com

THIS MONTH WE LOVE…

HEIDI KJELDSEN

JEWELLERY

If a proposal is on the cards this February, how about this stunning solitaire engagement ring (model R1792, £1,800) from Oakham jeweller Heidi Kjeldsen’s ‘Sofia’ collection. It features a lab-grown diamond, hence the very competitive price. heidikjeldsen.co.uk

SNOWDROPS & HELLEBORES AT COTON MANOR

The exquisite Coton Manor will be open for ‘Snowdrops & Hellebores’ on three weekends in February. Check on Instagram and the website for specifics. @cotonmanorgarden | cotonmanor.co.uk

ARCH LABEL AGENCY

DESIGNER BAGS

Susie Archer’s gorgeous Stamford boutique has a fabulous range of bags and accessories, including this wonderful black cherry small ‘Islington’ bag by Mulberry. It is ‘as new’ and costs £850 at Arch (this model retails at £1,350). archlabelagency.com

NEW BOOK BY BETH LYNCH

Northamptonshire-based author Beth Lynch has a new book, ‘The Cove’, out this month and she will be talking about it at Fletton House (PE8 4JA) in Oundle on Thursday 20 February at 7.30pm for the Oundle Festival of Literature. Tickets at are available at oundlefestivalofliterature.co.uk

6TH ANNUAL SEED SWAP AT OAKHAM

CASTLE

Green fingers at the ready! The Great Hall of Oakham Castle is the venue for the 6th Annual Seed Swap, organised by Root and Branch Out CIC, on Saturday 8 February from 11am–1pm. Drop in for some free seeds, or bring some to swap. Bring your gardening questions and find out about community gardening opportunities. All welcome! Find out more at rootandbranchout.co.uk

WHAT’S ON | FEBRUARY

1

WORKSHOP

The Conversation Stamford –Thrive+Bloom, Rutland Nursery 10–11am, free

Join The Conversation Stamford for an engaging and insightful free event exploring how we can better scaffold our children’s digital interactions and find a healthier balance for ourselves as parents. This interactive talk will offer practical advice on setting effective digital boundaries for children – and for parents –to foster healthier relationships with technology.

5–23

COMEDY FESTIVAL

Leicester Comedy Festival at Venues Across the City

Wednesday 5 to Sunday 23 February There is comedy for everyone in Leicester this February, at the city’s 2025 Comedy Festival. There’ll be everything from stand up to sketches, musical comedy, improv, exhibitions, discussions and workshops. More than 720 events will be held across 80 venues in Leicester and Leicestershire.

For the Official Festival Guide 2025, see comedy-festival.co.uk

5&6

THEATRE

Revision on Tour (Macbeth and Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde) at Stamford Corn Exchange

Macbeth: 5 Feb 1pm & 7pm, £18–20; Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde: 6 Feb, 1pm & 7pm, £18–20

Calling all English GCSE students and literature lovers! Two ‘Revision on Tour’ productions are coming to Stamford Corn Exchange this February: ‘Macbeth’ and ‘Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde’. On Wednesday 5 February, the excellent Dickens Theatre Company present the

Bard’s bloodiest tragedy. Set against a backdrop of wars, witchery and treasonous plotting, Shakespeare’s ambitious Macbeth remains ominously relevant in the 21st century.

Then, on Thursday 6 February, the company are performing ‘Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde’. Six actors take on all the roles in DTC’s acclaimed stage adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s Victorian Gothic masterpiece.

6

TALK

How to Get Away with Murder! at Stamford Arts Centre

7.30pm, £8 (£6 conc)

Join best-selling authors Darren O’Sullivan and Lisa Hall as they discuss how to plan, write and execute the perfect crime! During this hour-long conversation, both authors, who between them have sold over a million books, will discuss openly the way they craft their stories, with extracts from novels being read too. The audience will then be invited to ask questions about their work, and the dark and murderous worlds that live inside their heads.

CINEMA

The Critic (15) at Rutland County Museum 7.30pm, £7.50

The February film from Cinema for Rutland is The Critic, starring Ian McKellan and Gemma Arterton. It is London, 1934, and Jimmy Erskine (McKellan) is the most feared theatre critic of the age. He lives as

OPPOSITE: snowdrops at Easton Walled Gardens

LEFT: author and antiques expert Kate Bateman, who will be giving a talk for Authors in Oundle, this month

flamboyantly as he writes and takes pleasure in savagely taking down any actor who fails to meet his standards.

TALK

Kate Bateman: ‘Story vs History’ at Oundle School

7.45–8.45pm, £8 (£7 conc)

Join Kate Bateman, antiques expert and bestselling historical romance author for a talk covering everything from Pompeiian graffiti, fairy tales, the historical inspiration behind ‘Game of Thrones’, and a lighthearted look at some classic tropes found in literature and romance.

Kate is a bestselling author of Regency and Renaissance historical romances, including the Secrets and Spies series, Bow Street Bachelors series, Ruthless Rivals series, and Her Majesty’s Rebels series.

Traditionally published by both Penguin Random House and MacMillan/St Martin’s Press, her books have received multiple starred reviews from Publishers Weekly and Library Journal, and they have been translated into numerous languages.

Kate is also a fine art appraiser, auctioneer and antiques expert, the co-founder of Batemans Auctioneers in Stamford. After a decade living in the USA, she’s now back in England and regularly appears as an antiques expert on several popular BBC television shows such as Flog It! and Bargain Hunt.

This event is organised by Authors in Oundle. authorsinoundle.co.uk

8

WORKSHOP

Terrarium Workshop at Rutland Nursery

11am–12.30pm, pre-booking essential, £55pp

Join the team at Rutland Nursery for an immersive and creative terrarium workshop, where you will learn how to design, build and care for your very own miniature garden.

Guided by the Nursery’s in-house horticulturist, Sarah Webster, this hands-on workshop is perfect for all abilities – no previous experience or skills are required. The price inclues tea and coffee and all materials needed for the workshop.

12

SNOWDROP SEASON

From 12 Feb, open Wed–Sun, 11am–4pm (Coffee Shop & Courtyard Shop open 10am–4pm), see website for end date, gardens £12 (children £5, under 4s free) Visit Easton Walled Gardens as the first new growth of the year emerges and snowdrops open up across the Gardens. Along the snowdrop bank, drifts of snowdrops cascade down towards the River Witham.

CULTURE, EVENTS, WORKSHOPS

VENUES

• Barnsdale Gardens The Avenue, Exton, Oakham LE15 8AH, 01572 813200, barnsdalegardens.co.uk

• Boughton House Geddington Road, Kettering NN14 1BJ, 01536 515731, boughtonhouse.co.uk

• Easton Walled Gardens Grantham, NG33 5AP, 01476 530063, visiteaston.co.uk

• Goldmark Gallery 14 Orange Street, Uppingham LE15 9SQ, 01572 821424, goldmarkart.com

• Oundle School New Street, Oundle PE8 4GH, oundleschool.org.uk

• Peterborough Cathedral Peterborough PE1 1XS, 01733 355315, peterborough-cathedral.org.uk

• Rutland County Museum Catmos Street, Oakham LE15 6HW, 01572 758440, rutlandcountymuseum.org.uk

• Rutland Nursery Lyndon Road, Manton LE15 8RN, 01572 498720, rutlandnursery.co.uk

• Stamford Arts Centre 27 St Mary’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DL, 01780 763203, stamfordartscentre.com

• Stamford Corn Exchange Broad St, Stamford PE9 1PX, 01780 766455, stamfordcornexchange.co.uk

• Victoria Hall 39b High Street, Oakham LE15 6AH, 01572 722496, victoriahall.org

WHAT’S ON | FEBRUARY

The Courtyard Shop will be open, and hot drinks, savoury snacks and cake will be available from The Applestore or The Coffee Room.

If you love snowdrops, note that Coton Manor’s beautiful garden will be open on three weekends in February. See also p12 and keep an eye on their social media/ website for exact dates. cotonmanor.co.uk

14

WINE TASTING

Exclusive Evening of Wine Tasting at Rutland Nursery

7–10pm, pre-booking essential, £50pp

An elegant evening of wine tasting and pairing awaits, hosted by the renowned Maison Cavaillé. Founded in 1949 in Aix-les-Bains, Savoie, this family business has become celebrated for its exceptional wines from across France, with a particular expertise in Savoie wines, Languedoc and Provence wines.

Experience over 70 years of winemaking tradition, as JeanChristophe Cavaillé and his son, Sam, talented vintners and wine experts, guide you through a selection of six wines from the Languedoc.

Start the evening with a glass of rosé paired with canapés, then

enjoy the remaining five wines with a cheese and charcuterie selection, thoughtfully chosen to enhance the unique flavours of each bottle (dietary alternatives available).

Immerse yourself in the world of Languedoc wines and discover the rich heritage and modern innovations of Maison Cavaillé, now proudly led by its third and fourth generations. Gain unique insights into their passion for winemaking, the art of wine appreciation and the fascinating stories behind these exceptional vintages.

All the wines showcased during the evening are available at L’Art de Vivre by French Cellar, Oakham’s new wine shop.

NGS OPEN GARDEN

Boughton House Open Garden

1–4pm, £8 (£4 children, free under 5s)

The NGS garden opening of Boughton House, Northamptonshire home of the Duke of Buccleuch, includes opportunities to see the historic walled garden and herbaceous border, and the sensory and wildlife gardens. The wilderness woodland will also open for visitors to view early spring flowers. As a special

treat, the garden originally created by Sir David Scott (cousin of the Duke of Buccleuch) will also be open.

20

THEATRE

Persephone at Stamford Arts Centre

11.30am, 12.45pm & 3pm, £12 adults (£8 children), suitable for 6 months to 3 years

This gentle sensory exploration of the seasons is perfect for babies and toddlers. Join Persephone and her animal friends as they guide you and your babies through the changes in nature, collecting things on their way… Hear a robin chirp a merry tune as it gets colder and the days draw in. Will you be able to catch a snowflake? Hop through the meadow with a bunny, watching the flowers bloom. Will there be an April shower? Perhaps you can catch the bubbles from the bubbling brook? Listen to the waves of the ocean and fly through the summer with a colourful butterfly, feeling the heat of the sun on your face. See the leaves change colour and fall to the ground as a hedgehog snuffles through the undergrowth. Perhaps you can catch the wind?

Boughton House and (right) its gardens

WHAT’S ON | FEBRUARY

21

LIVE MUSIC

The Clare Teal 5 at Stamford Arts Centre

7.30pm, £28 (£26 conc)

The Clare Teal 5 is an exciting collaboration between Radio 2 and Jazz FM broadcaster Clare and her regular quartet, featuring some of the UK’s finest jazz musicians. Including favourites from her many albums and acclaimed DVD The Fireside Sessions, Teal’s live shows are richly infused with jazz and critically renowned across the country for their fabulous arrangements, interspersed with Clare’s warm and witty storytelling. She creates a magical world, heralding the talents of Sam Smith, Cole Porter, Van Morrison, Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Radiohead, Blossom Dearie, Peggy Lee and Sarah Vaughan. An evening of uplifting sounds and stories.

22

EXHIBITION

Dufy at Goldmark Gallery

From 22 February until 21 March, free

‘Dazzling Dufy’ opens on Saturday 22 February with a short talk, at 2pm, from Mary Alexander, one of the finest Dufy experts in the world. For more information, see p20.

25

WORKSHOP

Willow Weaving Taster at Barnsdale Gardens

1.30–4pm, £50

Grab your secateurs and join country craftsman Martin Keeley to learn how to weave with willow and create something beautiful to take home.

The price includes tea/coffee and all materials (you will need to bring your own secateurs), as well as entry to the Gardens. Combine this course and the morning Willow Weaving course (Willow Weaving Taster Workshop: Animals) for a £10 discount. See website for details.

27

TALK

The Arts Society Oakham at the Victoria Hall 11am with coffee from 10.30am, £5 for guests

In his book ‘Historic Building Mythbusting’, the archaeologist James Wright, a resident of Nottingham, has used many case studies from the county to articulate some of the tales that are told about ancient architecture. These include stories of secret passages underneath Wollaton, ship timbers in Workshop, strange sculptures at Laxton Parish Church and yarns about Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem being the oldest inn in England. But are any of these stories true?

28

COMEDY

February Comedy Club at Stamford Corn Exchange

7.30pm, £24

Chuckl in association with the Stamford Corn Exchange proudly presents Stamford Comedy Club. Join them, as they bring you some of the biggest names in comedy, hand-picked artists you’re sure to love, and stars of tomorrow you’re yet to discover. Four comedians, one big night of comedy! Scheduled to feature in February are the fabulous Sara Pascoe, Andrew Maxwell, Aaron Simmonds and Tom Rodgers (although note that the lineup may be subject to change).

Clare Teal

Dazzling Dufy

‘Dazzling Dufy’, a stunning collection of original prints and posters by one of the greats of 20th-century art, is on display at Goldmark Gallery in Uppingham from Saturday 22 February until Friday 21 March. Admission is free, and there will be a walk-through film of the exhibition on goldmarkart.com from Friday 21 February

OPPOSITE: La Fenêtre de Dufy à Aspet.

PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM

RAOUL DUFY (1877–1953) was one of the greats of 20th-century art – his name can be spoken of in the same breath as giants such as Picasso, Braque and Matisse. Yet Dufy is not as widely known in the UK as he is in other countries. It may be because his work could not be easily categorised by postwar British art critics. Indeed, Dufy could not be put in any box. He was constantly innovating and experimenting with new materials and effects to deliver works that were sophisticated and joyous in equal measure.

‘Dazzling Dufy’, which will be on show at Uppingham’s Goldmark Gallery from later this month, will capture Dufy’s spirit and energy. ‘Dazzling Dufy’ is a suitable title for a show about an artist who served up a luminous feast throughout his working life. Dufy was a key player in 20th-century avant-garde art, design, literary and musical circles in Paris. His charismatic personality, wit and curiosity about the world was infectious. His imagination and technical virtuosity across a range of media including painting, murals, book illustration, textiles and fashion, ceramics and theatre set design defy conventional art historical categorisation.

Dufy moved with seeming effortlessness between small-scale book illustration to the gigantic 600-metre murals at the 1937 Paris Exposition.Throughout his life, colour and light were his passion, and he commented: ‘In my painting there is neither ground, nor background, nor sky: there are colours whose relationships create space and that is all.’

His early experiments in colour field painting were ahead of their time and not fully understood by later critics and historians caught up in the obsession with postwar abstract art. The wonderful French artist Sonia Delauney, who shared Dufy’s polymath genius, commented in 1927: ‘Dufy’s fabrics were like a ray of sunlight on a gloomy day: they were embraced by the fashion industry, giving it a note of fun and spontaneity that had not been seen before.’ Dufy himself said, more modestly, that the fashion-conscious wearers of his fabrics would have fallen about laughing in front of his paintings!

When Gertrude Stein wrote in the 1940s that: ‘Dufy is pleasure,’ she was not referring to superficiality but to his deep human empathy. Mary Alexander, one of the finest Dufy experts in the world, who lectures regularly throughout the UK, Europe, Australia and New Zealand, will refer to this in a short talk about the artist at the opening on Saturday 22 February (at 2pm) and she will reflect on the coded message of Dufy’s 1937 Paris murals three years ahead of the Nazi occupation of the city.

So mark your calendars and visit Goldmark for a sparkling celebration of art and creativity this February.

goldmark gallery, 14 orange street, uppingham le15 9sq 01572 821424 | info@goldmarkart.com

www.goldmarkart.com | goldmark.tv @goldmarkart

THIS

RIGHT: The Band; Envoi d’Oranges Glacées; Ville de Nice poster.

PROM STYLE GUIDE

styling: anna couture boutique

models: laurie mackman & lucy smith

photos: tim steele photography

makeup: claire @fabskinclinic

gowns from anna couture boutique of stamford (see p32 for contact details)

PROM STYLE GUIDE

gown from anna couture boutique of stamford (see p32 for contact details)

DOWNSTAIRS at Anna D’Amato’s gorgeous Anna Couture Boutique on the corner of St Mary’s Street and Cheyne Lane in Stamford – down a sweeping spiral staircase – is the Glamour Room, home to rows of stunning evening and Prom gowns, all beautifully arranged by colour and a feast for the eyes. There’s plenty of space here to try on the gowns and to have a walk to check you feel comfortable with your special look. There are also shoes, bags, evening gloves – all the beautiful accessories to make an outfit.

Anna and her team will make you feel relaxed and can advise on the gowns available. Anna told us that it’s never too early to start planning for Prom, and she and her team will make sure no one else at your Prom buys that same dress, so there won’t be any unexpected twinning moments! And if you purchase your dress at Anna Couture, the team will be able to make alterations to ensure it fits perfectly. (Anna’s background is in costume design and styling, so she’s a whizz at doing alterations and creating items bespoke.) If you pop into the boutique, you can pick up a coupon offering 10% off gowns.

gowns from anna couture boutique of stamford (see p32 for contact details)

‘It’s never too early to start planning for Prom’ Anna D’Amato

Be Truly Inspired By More Travel Holidays

Helen Dooley , Director of More Travel in Stamford, describes her experiences in some uniquely rewarding destinations for you to consider

IF SOMEONE ASKED YOU from your sun lounger in the Maldives, or on a sky safari in Tanzania, or at the dinner table in Dubai, “Why here?”, what would you say? Whether you’re looking to feel inspired, reconnected, indulged, exhilarated or enriched, each of these remarkable places offers a transformative journey.

‘For me,’ Helen explains, ‘these destinations each brought something uniquely rewarding, and I can’t wait to return to each one. Is it time to choose your next holiday and embark on an adventure that will leave you feeling rejuvenated, recharged and ready to take on the world?’

Feel Inspired: Canada & USA National Parks

‘There’s something about the vastness of these landscapes – from the peaks of the Rockies to the sweeping vistas of the Grand Canyon and even the never-ending horizons of the plains – that ignites a sense of wonder and possibility. What must the first pioneers have thought as these vast landscapes unfurled before them? These parks have a way of making you feel small in the best way possible, offering a chance to reconnect with the raw beauty of nature,’ notes Helen.

‘Whether you’re hiking the trails in Yosemite, taking in the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone or marvelling at the dramatic desert landscapes of Death Valley, these parks offer the perfect setting for inspiration.

‘When my children were younger,’ she recalls, ‘we drove an RV through Yosemite, Mojave and Death Valley. It was probably the best driving adventure we’ve ever had – the scenery changes so dramatically every 100 miles or so that we could have been on different continents – from alpine mountains through lunar landscapes to desert terrains. And the excitement just builds as you see Las Vegas starting as a little shimmer in the middle of the desert!’

Feel Rejuvenated: Relax in the Tranquil Waters of the Maldives

‘I remember stepping onto the soft white sand for the first time and immediately feeling all the stress melt away. The Maldives brings a rare kind of peace that it’s hard to replicate anywhere else in the world,’ explains Helen. ‘I spent long lazy days basking in the sun, dipping in and out of the crystal-clear water, indulging in soothing spa treatments and paying a vague interest in the comings and goings of the island from beneath my palm tree. In the evenings, we had sumptuous feasts, laughter and dancing. A late-night dip in the bath-warm water unveiled the magical fluorescence – it was the thing of dreams!’

Feel Reconnected: the Timeless Beauty of Kyoto, Japan

‘The beauty of Kyoto, with its ancient temples, serene gardens and traditional tea houses, invites you to reconnect with life’s simple,

quiet pleasures,’ says Helen. ‘Escape the modern world and its frenetic pace – slow it down and roll back to a world unchanged, where tradition, ceremony, service and gratitude are as much a part of life as they have been for centuries. If you’re looking for a place to reconnect with your inner peace and find balance, Kyoto is a destination to consider.’

Feel Enriched: the Spiritual and Cultural Heritage of India ‘India was one of the most enriching experiences of my life. The rhythm of life here vibrates through every bit of your being – I often describe it as the volume being turned up on all of your senses. In India history, culture and spirituality intersect in the most profound way.

‘I remember standing in awe before the Taj Mahal, feeling the weight of its history and the beauty of its architecture. The forts and temples of the Golden Triangle positively rumble with the centuries-old stories of their Maharajas and Maharanees.

‘In Kerala and the South, the land evokes Jungle Book terrain –magical, mystical, the home of wild elephant and tiger,’ says Helen. ‘Tiny villages with ladies in saris gracefully carrying water jugs on their heads with ease.

‘In the north the mighty Himalayas have a story of their own –homes and villages carved into the foothills, clinging on for dear life; brightly coloured lorries and buses winding their way up and down the mountain passes with a confidence that sometimes seems misplaced. But that’s the beauty of this place – everything bounces along in an amiable way, with no one vehicle being more important than another and each respectful of the importance of each.

‘India offered me a profound opportunity to reflect on life, spirituality and the interconnectedness of all things. If you want to feel deeply enriched by a destination that offers not just sights, but a transformative experience, India is waiting for you.’

Feel Exhilarated: Safari Adventures in Kenya and Tanzania

‘Kenya and Tanzania offer some of the most exhilarating and unforgettable safari experiences on the planet,’ notes Helen. ‘You’ll find vast herds of wildlife – wildebeests and zebras happily sharing the vast rich plains of the Maasai Mara. You’ll scatter small herds, as your light aircraft lands on a small strip of a lovingly built lodge – which will be home to plenty of the local Maasai to whom the land belongs in perpetuity.’ She continues: ‘At night their reassuring jingly jewellery will let you know you’re under their safe watch. Here man and beast live side by side in mutual respect – with villagers taking only what they need to ensure the circle of life here may long continue.’

FROM

if you’d like more ideas and inspiration for 2025, just open more travel’s ‘feel every moment’ brochure available through the qr code shown left. if you’d like a hard copy, please feel free to pop into more travel’s shop at 15a st mary’s street, stamford pe9 2df or email hello@more-travel.co.uk

CLOCKWISE

TOP LEFT: Lengishu Pride Rock in Kenya; Ritz Carlton Pool Villas, Patina, in the Maldives; Yosemite National Park; boat on a tranquil Keralan backwater.

Molecey Mill Love at First Sight

Molecey Mill, a Grade II*-listed watermill set within 20 acres of grounds in West Deeping, is guaranteed to make you fall in love

WHEN GRAHAM AND GLENN bought the Granary back in 2015, they intended to purely offer the property for luxurious house stays. However, after living there and welcoming guests for a few years, it became obvious what a truly romantic and magical place Molecey was. They hosted their first wedding in 2017 and have created the most perfect day for many special couples ever since. Graham and Glenn bought the adjoining Mill in 2019, and now the estate offers luxurious accommodation, including 10 reception rooms and 15 themed bedrooms, surrounded by beautiful gardens, rivers, streams and islands.

History of the Mill

Over the centuries Molecey was a busy place of corn, mice, kingfishers, swans, flour sacks and carts. People arrived by canal from the coast; stone and giant oaks built the walls and floors. Families came and went. In 1765 Jeremiah Sharpe inherited the Mill, then in 1772 it transferred into the hands of John and Eleanor Molecey. They completed most of the building works, including adding the Granary for flour and grain storage, in 1773, and generations of their family lived here until in 1896 the Fullard family become the last in a line of 800 years of millers. The Rileys, with a famous artistic daughter, also called Molecey home from 1950, and the van Geests, who, through a successful banana business, secured its local fame over 30 years and brought the House, Mill and Granary safely through the twentieth century.

Jessy Jones

Photography

‘The house is a magnificent showcase of fine art and antiques, along with many treasures specifically sourced to relay the history of the great house and its ancestors’

Cherrelle Blake

Photography

‘Every

visitor to Molecey leaves wanting to return’

Where Memories are Made

Glenn is joint owner of one of the oldest art galleries in London, Gladwell and Patterson, and Graham, who also works for the gallery, is a passionate historian and creative; together they have produced the most stunning and unique setting. The house is a magnificent showcase of fine art and antiques, along with many treasures specifically sourced to relay the history of the great house and its ancestors. The surrounding tranquil gardens are bejewelled with an ever-changing collection of magnificent sculptures, and they are open to the public during ‘Gallery in Garden’ in May and the ‘Frost Fair’ in November.

Molecey Estates now plays host to 10 or so weddings a year. Graham and Glenn, along with Little Glenn, prefer to keep to a smaller number, so that they can focus their attention on each couple and make sure each wedding weekend is as special and unforgettable as imagined. The grounds are the perfect backdrop, adaptable to create either the romantic, the intimate or the daringly different celebration the couple are dreaming of. Over the years, strong relationships have been made with suppliers, celebrants, musicians and photographers, so that couples can easily and reliably find the best fit for them.

As well as weddings, Molecey is still offered for house stays – a very special home from home to spend time with family and friends and make long-lasting memories together. Molecey also accommodates corporate days and retreats, offering several unique event spaces alongside the grounds and house.

Graham and Glenn are active members of the local community, using local suppliers wherever possible for the house restoration and refurbishment, as well as for the weddings, and also help to host community events such as the Deepings Literary Festival. Every visitor to Molecey leaves wanting to return; the house and grounds are truly a thing of magical and enchanting beauty. The most perfect place to fall in love, to celebrate and to stay.

ABOVE & PREVIOUS PAGE: the stunningly renovated Molecey Mill, a magical place for weddings, as well as luxurious house stays, corporate events and retreats.

molecey estate stamford road west deeping PE6 9JD

07855 242356

www.moleceyestates.com @moleceymill

Sarah Carter Photography

Tim Steele Photography

Spaces by Design

This recent bathroom project in Easton on the Hill has just been awarded Bathroom of the Year from Ca’Pietra. Luxury meets tranquillity to create this haven of calm, the perfect respite from everyday life

The Brief

This family bathroom needed a major redesign to reflect the property’s character and the customer’s style. They wanted a functional but statement bathroom to relax and unwind in.

The Concept

A stone freestanding bath was to be the centre piece of the space, cradled with a curved wall of marble and a single pendant, while the walk-in shower needed to be impressive but discrete, not to intrude on the space but large enough for a luxurious drenching.

The Visualisation

As the new design was very different from the existing bathroom, viewing it in VR helped the client appreciate the

The VR experience is mind blowing –it really helps to visualise the space in a way a 3D visual can’t do.

size, space, arrangement and style of the new layout and features in a way mood boards and renders just cannot match.

The Installation

Spaces by Design organised and managed all the trades required to complete this bathroom, including plumbing, electrics, plastering and tiling, all to the highest standards. So, you can relax knowing that you are in safe hands.

The Outcome

This bathroom delivers on many levels. The curved wall of reeded marble is the star, enveloping the bath and creating a cosy space to relax. This pairs perfectly with the bespoke whitewashed reeded oak vanity. The chevron mosaic marble floor oozes warmth and complements the larger format tiles to the walls while the antique brass finishes add understated elegance.

01780 481850

stepinside@spacesbydesign.co.uk

22-23 Scotgate, Stamford, PE9 2YQ www.spacesbydesign.co.uk

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Interiors Local Makers & Design Notes

In this new regular feature, decorative painter Laura E Jekyll introduces us to a local maker, as well as giving fabulous interiors tips. She kicks off with a personal introduction, followed by suggestions of how to transform your home even when the budget is modest

Laura E Jekyll

Based in our region, Laura E Jekyll is a decorative artist creating one-of-a-kind heirloom furniture, homewares and personalised gifts. Working with families and designers across the Rutland, Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire area, she creates bespoke interiors that reflect the unique character and charm of your family and your home. Find out more at laurajekyll.com | @laura.jekyll

MEET THE MAKER

Laura E Jekyll, Decorative Artist

From her studio in South Lincolnshire, painter Laura creates bespoke hand-painted art, furniture and homewares. She shares with us her inspirations, creative process and favourite local spots

How would you describe your work?

Our homes tell our stories. We can use our homes to craft a lifestyle that’s aspirational, calming, convivial. My work is really decorative storytelling. Every piece is one-of-a-kind. It might be a commission for a mural or updating a piece of furniture someone has had forever, but with each project I help my clients bring personality into their homes.

What are your main influences and inspirations?

Oh so many things! I collect little sparks of ideas from all sorts of places – textiles and costume and antiques from across the globe. British style is quite eccentric really and I think you can see this in my work. I’m drawn to the wonderfully fluid style of the Bloomsbury aesthetic, the naivety of folk art and the wabi-sabi philosophy of appreciating nature’s simplicity and imperfections. I spend a lot of time experimenting with colour and texture, playing with smudges and brushstrokes – things that make the work human.

Do clients come to you with ideas or do you guide the vision? It’s usually a mix. Some have a clear vision, while others just have a vibe. I love collaborating – getting to know their style, space and story. Every piece is a partnership, which makes it deeply personal.

BELOW LEFT: chairs and dining table re-envisaged, renovated and hand-painted by Laura for a Stamford client.

BELOW CENTRE: admirers of this gorgeous cot, decorated by Laura, include @anniesloanhome, who notes: ‘How wonderful is this ‘fairytale-esque’ cot by @laura.jekyll. Children’s bedrooms are the perfect place to experiment using colour. From inspiring their imaginations to encouraging restful sleep, there are endless possibilities for incorporating colour creatively into little spaces.’

BELOW RIGHT: bookcase, featuring Laura’s hand-painted decorative motifs of oak leaves, acorns and stripes, with initials subtlely interwoven into the design.

What’s the one thing you can’t work without?

Music. It really helps me to get into the zone. The right playlist can instantly put me into that calm, creative state from which the work just flows.

What projects are you excited about right now?

This year I’m launching a range of children’s bookcases designed to look beautiful within the home. I painted an oak leaf bookcase for our home and it has transformed our children’s reading habits.

LAURA’S FAVOURITE LOCAL SPOTS EAT

The Finch’s Arms – wonderful food and a idyllic stroll on the Hambleton peninsula.

DRINK

Fika – for a matcha latte or fresh smoothie.

WALK

We’re lucky enough to live alongside Easton Walled Gardens, so whenever I need a break, I can head to the gardens, which are open from mid-February.

SHOP

Rutland Nursery – there’s something for the whole family and we all love wandering through the conservatories.

calling all artisans, makers and creators. contact nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk to nominate yourself or someone inspiring for our new series spotlighting local talent

‘Our homes tell our stories. We can use our homes to craft a lifestyle that’s aspirational, calm, convivial. My work is really decorative storytelling’

ABOVE one of Laura’s exquisite hand-painted boxes, each of which is unique.

Interiors Local Makers & Design Notes

DESIGN NOTES

5 SIMPLE, STYLISH WAYS TO UPDATE YOUR HOME

In these early months of the year, I often get swept up in the seasonal urge to overhaul my home, writes Laura E Jekyll. Sometimes little tweaks are all you need. These transformational tips offer quick, easy ways to keep your home feeling fresh

PLAY WITH COLOUR

1

Paint is one of the most powerful tools for updating your home. Experiment with colour blocking, drenching or even murals for impact. Think about how you want a room to feel – calm and spacious, for example, or warm and cosy. Make sure you get a sample and try it in different parts of the room to see how the colour looks in different light and longside fixtures such as curtains and artwork.

ACCESSORISE FOR CHARACTER

2

Textiles are your best friend when it comes to adding warmth and personality. Try interesting combinations of pattern, texture and scale for a polished, layered look. Keep your space organised with trays and baskets and add plants to breathe life into your home.

ABOVE: Chloe Jonason has a sumptuous range of one-of-akind cushions, throws and wall hangings made from vintage fabrics. chloejonasoninteriors.com

3

LIGHTING: SET THE MOOD

Good lighting defines a space. Combine three types for maximum impact: ambient for general lighting; task for focused activities; and accent to highlight features or add decorative flair. Update ceiling fixtures or look into installing dimmer switches to elevate your existing lighting.

LEFT: the playful Lobo floor lamp is from Lumison Lighting in Oakham. lumisonlighting.com

‘Combine three types of lighting for maximum impact: ambient, task and accent’

HARD-HITTING HARDWARE

4

Updating cabinet handles, door knobs, and light fixtures can give an instant update to kitchens and bathrooms. You can source handles, knobs and backplates in a wide array of styles and colours from brands including Matilda Goad. Coordinating hardware across your home is a subtle way to make your interiors look more cohesive.

FRESHEN UP FURNITURE

5

Adding a fresh coat of paint or a bold fabric is a sustainable way to update tired furniture and can help to tie together mismatched pieces. If you don’t feel like taking on the project, you can outsource to the professionals. In Stamford, Claire Langley (clairelangley.co.uk) has a large selection of antique and bespoke seating ready for upholstering to your specifications, whilst Rose Raw-Rees (roserawreesupholstery.com) offers traditional reupholstery for your antique and modern furniture. As a decorative painter, I offer a bespoke service for furniture, creating hand-painted designs to your colour palette, themes and even personalised with initials or design motifs (laurajekyll.com).

Do you have a design challenge you’d like Laura’s help with? Send your questions to the editor at nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk

Rutland’s Destination for Better Sleep

Have you ever wished for more restful nights but thought that really good sleep was out of your control? If so, head to the ‘home of sleep’ and seek advice from the experts at Woolroom in Rutland

words: amander meade

HEADED UP by Chris Tattersall, Woolroom is an award-winning family business on a mission to improve our sleep. Chris is a renowned authority not only on the barriers to good sleep, but also to their solutions, which can often be based on poor sleep environments. ‘Whatever your age, the main prohibitors to a restful, restorative sleep are poor heat regulation or allergies and that is where using natural products such as organic wool and cotton can make a world of difference,’ he explains.

The Showroom

Anyone wishing to improve the quality of their sleep is warmly invited to visit Woolroom’s Oakham showroom, where you can experience the entire range of products and discuss your individual sleep requirements with the expert team. Browsers are very welcome or you can also make an appointment with one of the company’s sleep consultants for a full, bespoke consultation. ‘Whether the barrier to sleep is rooted in an allergic condition or perhaps menopausal symptoms, we can offer natural wool solutions that are likely to help.’ The team can explain how the science behind how cocooning yourself in natural materials can improve sleep for everyone. ‘We spend a third of our lives in our beds, so our mission is to ensure that your sleep environment is conducive to peaceful, healthy rest. Wool bedding is proven to boost your chances of a good night’s sleep by 67% and can help you achieve 25% more deep, regenerative sleep than other types of bedding.’

The Wonder of Wool

Woolroom is a leading natural sleep specialist worldwide, offering unique products globally. All Woolroom bedding holds the Allergy UK Seal of Approval without the need for regular washing. The company is also the only provider of a truly machine washable organic wool bedding collection that meets with the strictest standards set by the Global Organic Textile Standards Authority – quite the achievement for a business based in England’s smallest county! So confident are they in their range that trial periods of up to 100 days for their duvets, pillows, mattress toppers and mattresses are offered. If you don’t see improvement to your sleep, you can return your purchase with no quibble.

So how can wool bedding transform your sleep? ‘Wool naturally regulates body temperature and controls moisture, meaning you wake up less frequently. Wool is also naturally hypoallergenic, so great for alleviating sleep problems linked to allergies,’ the team explain. Woolroom offer a range of products to suit all budgets, and Chris’s personal tip for those wanting to try wool bedding for the first time is to invest in a mattress topper and build your personal collection from there. ‘By using a wool mattress topper, the largest surface area of your body can reap the benefits. You’ll be cooler when you overheat and warmer if you cool down.’

In terms of value for money, wool products win again. ‘Wool is so durable – and, in the case of our products, traceable to the individual sheep farm – that it lasts up to 10 times longer than bedding made from feather, down or manmade fabrics. It’s also biodegradable and naturally fire retardant, and we go over and above legal requirements to ensure ethical production in terms of our farmer partners and their animals. Even our packaging is ethically produced; it’s organic and either recyclable or biodegradable.’

Welcome to the Flock

‘We believe everyone deserves the benefits of clean, natural and life-changing sleep. We’re all about using the incredible natural powers of wool to make your life happier and healthier.’

Get ready to sleep tight and wake up refreshed with Woolroom.

‘We spend a third of our lives in our beds, so our mission is to ensure that your sleep environment is conducive to peaceful, healthy rest’

woolroom, 33–35 pillings road, oakham le15 6qf open mon–fri 9am–5pm & weekends by appointment 01780 461217

thewoolroom.com @woolroom

Stamford Stone at Home

Nicholas & Clare Rudd-Jones met with Stamford Stone’s showroom manager Sandy Harris to take a look at new flooring trends

STAMFORD STONE AT HOME has become a leading national supplier of stone for both internal and external areas, offering its own Clipsham stone and bringing in a carefully selected range of complementary stones from the UK and abroad.

And, with its burgeoning showroom and knowledgeable team, it can really enable customers to make optimal choices that are spot on technically and also have that ‘wow’ factor that can transform an interior or exterior space.

The showroom is located at Swaddywell Quarry and is an easy, convenient and accessible way to see the beauty of the various stones and to assess their potential for your own project. You can visit the showroom by appointment to take a look at samples and consult with showroom manager Sandy Harris, who will give you a much better idea of what works best where and also suggest some creative alternatives that perhaps you hadn’t thought of or didn’t know about. Alternatively, you can shop online if you already know what you want at www.ssathome.co.uk

New Trends in Flooring

Sandy took us through some of the current trends that are likely to continue through 2025.

1Herringbone, Bond and Chevron patterns are popular right now.

All of these provide added interest in a room, for example in the intersection between a kitchen and a boot room/utility room, or at the back of a fireplace. Quarried from the Clipsham Bidwell site.

2Warmer, earthier tones for flooring from the Charlbury Beige range that has a special patina that gives the stones an appearance of age the moment they are laid.

3Brushed stone. Again, this adds visual interest. It might work particularly well in an old cottage.

4Audbourn Distressed Stone – this has fossils evident from the marine sediment part of the quarry. This provides huge added interest and a sense of incredible timelessness. Part of the Walcott range, it comes in several different finishes.

5Walcott Octagonal gives a geometric overall look to the flooring in a room, adding a touch of style and distinction.

‘With its burgeoning showroom and knowledgeable team, Stamford Stone at Home can enable customers to make optimal choices that are spot on technically and also have that “wow” factor that can transform an interior or exterior space’

6Finally, fireplaces have been popular over the last year, with no one trend predominating – both the more traditional look, such as the Hambleton fireplace and a more contemporary classic style, eg the Ashton (shown above), are popular. Four Clipsham fireplaces were recently installed in the new Gladwell & Patterson art gallery in Stamford, and you can see how well they fit into sumptuous interiors.

THE STAMFORD STONE SHOWROOM

You are welcome to shop online, but there are definitely benefits in visiting the showroom (see right):

• A whole range of the internal and external stones are on display, several of which are laid, so you can see exactly how they look.

• The colour of a stone can look quite different in different lights, and you will get a much better idea of this if you look in person.

• This is such an authentically local business, with the showroom alongside the quarry. Seeing is believing and you will get to chat with experts too, which can be hugely reassuring, given that this is likely to be a big, long-term purchase.

find out more: download a brochure or order a sample at www.ssathome.co.uk. you can also, by appointment, visit the showroom at swaddywell quarry, stamford road, helpston pe6 7el 01780 740970 | www.ssathome.co.uk @stamfordstoneco

Stamford Stone at Home is about quality, about selecting and curating the best for the most discerning and taste-aware customers, and about offering the very best advice, so that you are sure of getting the right stone for the job.

Above: the Ashton fireplace

Commercial / Domestic / Difficult Access

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Hi Claudia hopefully this will all work for the small advert the magazine

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OBLIGATION QUOTE

Tara Carlile-Swift

of Freckleface Home Fragrance

Nicholas & Clare Rudd-Jones met with Tara Carlile-Swift, co-owner of Freckleface

Home Fragrance, for coffee in (of course!) Freckleface Coffee Co in Stamford

OUR FIRST IMPRESSION of Tara was just how empathetic she was, chatting with all around her, putting people at ease and seeming to have a sixth sense for what’s on people’s minds. This must have been a great help to her throughout her life, but she admitted it can also be draining because she is so aware of other people’s issues and always wants to help.

Tara, where did it all begin?

My father died suddenly of a heart attack aged 46 when I was just six months old, and my mother brought my brother and I up on her own for several years, finding jobs to make ends meet, including a stint as dinner lady at our school! She’s now the #1 fan of Freckleface and often starts conversations with strangers about the brand. Sometimes she even gets on the phone to me and asks me to talk to them. I think we got a lot of confidence from her as kids; we are never shy to engage with people. When my mother married again, when I was six, we moved all over the country, as my stepfather was a coastguard. A favourite spot was Clovelly in North Devon. I tended to be quite practical and just get on with things. I had various jobs from the age of 13 – I always wanted to be independent and have a bit of money in my pocket. My stepdad hand-dug a swimming pool in our back garden, and I even started charging kids in the village to come up and swim in it!

School wasn’t really my thing, and I left home when I was 16 and went to art college in Plymouth. Calligraphy, lettering and signwriting were my passions, but electronic technology was taking over at that time, so it wasn’t a career path I could pursue.

Instead, one weekend when I was 18, I went to visit friends in Nottingham, and ended up staying there, camping at Home Pierrepont Country Park for the first three months! I started out working in pubs and hospitality, which I really enjoyed, and that was where I met my husband-to-be Simon. After a couple of years, I decided to acquire some more specific training and took a secretarial course in my early twenties. I was lucky to land my first job as PA to a Finance Director at Experian and I learnt a lot from it.

A few years later, when I was working in a similar role at Boots, still in Nottingham, I got chatting to some people in the staff canteen and suggested some ideas for their new range of pregnancy products. They were so impressed that they offered me a job in marketing, and I became an assistant brand manager.

How did the idea of Freckleface come about?

Our son, Noah, was born in 2003, and from a very young age he seemed to be a mini entrepreneur, trying to sell pictures and selling

‘We want to be a heritage brand… handed down to generations of Frecklefaces’

water on the beach. It just seemed to come naturally to him. When he got to school, though, he struggled a bit – Noah is neurodiverse – and I was determined to help him to express himself more fully. Since we were both always thinking about new ideas, we started to put our heads together. So, right from the start, it was about mum and son going into business together. And we called ourselves the ‘Frecklefaces’, as we both have lots of freckles… and that is how the name of the business came about!

First and foremost, we wanted to develop a brand with longevity, which represented our values of quality and sustainability and that could become a legacy brand. Noah created a logo, but we didn’t yet have a product at that point! I started to experiment with candles, and then discovered that wax melts are much better in their scent-throwing powers than candles. I beavered away at nights and weekends on prototypes [Tara still had a corporate job at this stage as a Siemens project manager] and, finally, we had something that we both felt could work. The brand and the product just seemed to click into place. Noah was the catalyst for realising my long-held belief that I was made to create a legacy brand.

We set up our business in 2017, and in the early days our sales all came though fairs. There were two in particular that really made us sit up and think. We ran a stand at Noah’s school, Bourne Abbey, and we were run off our feet, making an incredible profit. Then, in 2018, we managed to secure a tiny spot in the Rural Crafts Association tent at the Burghley Horse Trials, and again the interest was overwhelming. We felt sure that there was something special in this.

How did the business expand?

We developed the online side of our business and then opened our first store in Stamford in 2020. It was a family affair from the start, with Simon building the shop interior, Noah creating the brand representation and with me developing the products. I can honestly say we were most enthusiastically received by the town, both by customers and other businesses, right from the start. It was wonderful. They were delighted to see such a business in the heart of the town. Although online is important, there is no substitute for smelling our products, so retail will always be a vital part of our business. We also love to be part of a thriving community.

photo: tim steele photography

What is your business philosophy?

We always determined not to expand too fast or to borrow money. Kindness and good ethics are extremely important to us, and we think of our team (now 68 people) as the Freckleface Family. We do lots of training and are very hands on [Noah had just fitted new panelling in the café in Stamford, for example]. All of my family is involved now, and we have very different skills: Simon more at the process/organisation/practical end and me at the creative end, whilst Noah sits very happily somewhere in the middle – he will take over the business in a few years’ time. He works in a different store every day and is a very compassionate person. We believe in treating our staff with the same kindness that we ask them to show to all our customers.

I still do all the product development – it’s something I absolutely love. We found a brilliant Fragrance House early on and this has really been one of the keys to our growth. I test products at home for at least three months and am always looking for new scents that offer something really distinctive. It is as much an art as a science and suits my artistic side perfectly.

What about the collaborations you’ve done?

We were lucky. They just seemed to come to us. RHS Chelsea Flower Show approached us and asked if we would like to exhibit. We filled out some forms and couldn’t believe it when they said yes! As a result of that, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) approached us about creating a joint range. We went with them to the Linley Collection in London, a repository of some exquisite 19th-century drawing of flowers, and these formed the centrepieces of our design approach. I remember thinking to myself that day, ‘It doesn’t get any better than this,’ combining my two passions of art and flowers. [Tara is especially keen on growing plants from seeds and on cut flowers.]

Laura Ashley happened in much the same way – we were very lucky, as they approached us on the basis that they felt the brands had similar values of handmade, hand designed, starting life on the kitchen table. I was so excited when I got the call. I’d worn Laura Ashley dresses as a bridesmaid. What a wonderful brand to be associated with!

And what next for Freckleface?

Well, people often wonder why we have expanded into having a café (Freckleface’s coffee shop in Stamford opened in 2022), but in fact it’s always been part of our vision. We’ve always wanted to be something of a garden centre in a town centre – a third coffee/cakes, a third melts/gifts and a third plants and flowers. It just might take a while to get there! Meanwhile, in our main business we are increasing our focus on wellbeing. Recently, for example, we launched a range of essential oils aimed at promoting wellness: Happy, Calm & Unwind, Rebalance, and Revive. And we’re looking to open a couple more stores in 2025, and hopefully have a much bigger Burghley stand! We want to be a heritage brand that’s still going to be on the high street in 50 years, handed down to generations of Frecklefaces. We’re not in it to make a quick buck.

We left Tara in the shop, chatting animatedly to customers. She is so incredibly approachable, yet so extraordinary at the same time for her passion, drive and creative flair.

Tara Carlile-Swift of Freckleface Home Fragrance

Key Moments

1990 Tara goes to Plymouth Art College.

1992 She moves to Nottingham.

2003 Noah, co-founder of the business, is born.

2011 The Carlile-Swifts move to Bourne, Lincs.

2017 Tara and Noah found Freckleface.

2020 First store opens – in Stamford.

2022 Freckleface Coffee Co opens in Stamford.

2024 Freckleface Home Fragrance now has five stores (Stamford, Lincoln, Cambridge and two in York) and is stocked in more than 800 shops nationwide. Tara and Noah have run collaborations with the Royal Horticultural Society and Laura Ashley.

frecklefacehomefragrance.com @frecklefacehomefragrance

Local Lowdown

When did you move to the area? We moved to Bourne in 2011. Recently, we have moved further north in Lincolnshire, close to Woodhall Spa.

What do you most like about the region?

The people, who are always so friendly and supportive – the most of any place we’ve been. We really appreciate that.

Favourite spot: Picnicking at Burghley House. We used to be foster parents [incredibly to 23 children], and they always used to love coming up to Burghley and playing there.

Favourite restaurant: The Crown in Stamford, I eat there as much as three times a week! Mick Thurlby (the owner) has always been so welcoming to us from the very start.

Favourite activity: Hunting high and low in antiques shops for things we can use for our retail displays and photography shoots, as well as for our own home.

Favourite local causes: ‘Don’t Lose Hope’ in Bourne, which aims to enhance the wellbeing of all members of our community by providing access to therapeutic and emotional support.

Feel good from the feet up

Chiropody/Podiatry

• Treatment for Various Skin & Nail Conditions

• Budget Toe Nail Cutting

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For further information, call Sheryl on:

Specialist dental expertise for you & your family

Alongside (truly) patient-focused family dentistry and hygiene, the Priestgate Clinic is proud of its team of dental specialists, all highly qualified & experienced to meet your dental needs, no matter how complex.

This expertise is enhanced by the use of the latest high-tech facilities & techniques. Our specialists have proven track records in achieving excellent long-term results, with both time & cost-effective treatments.

To book a specialist consultation either ask your dentist for a referral, or book directly via our website or reception team.

The method of treatment I offer for this is highly successful. Using computerised Gait Analysis & Orthotic Therapy (medical insoles).

Also to alleviate Achilles, Foot, Bunion, Knee, Hip & Back discomfort and pain.

Contact Annette Robinson (Chiropodist/Podiatrist, Muscle & Joint Specialist) Tel : 01832 272200 or 07905 167944 www.injuries-clinic-oundle.co.uk Do you

Ear syringing in the comfort of your own home or weekly clinics now available at The Redlands Clinic.

Anita Altham Registered Nurse

Mobile: 07711 298880 Email: contact@stamfordearsyringing.co.uk

Website: www.stamfordearsyringing.co.uk

The Redlands Clinic, 3d Olive Branch Yard, St Leonard’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2HU

Orthodontics

Richard Cousley & Matoula Taloumtzi

Everything from aligners to complex bite correction techniques, using the very latest 3D technology.

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Clive Moss

Teeth, jaw, oral & facial surgical treatments, e.g. removal of teeth & soft tissue lesions, plus facial aesthetics.

Periodontics & Implants

Emiliano Zanaboni & Tilemachos Makropoulos

Advanced treatments for gum disease & cosmetic gum surgery. Dental implants for missing teeth.

Endodontics

Sarfaraaz Zahid

Specialised microscope-assisted treatments for complex root canal problems.

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WELLNESS

BEAUTY

NOW OPEN!

Four Roots Wellbeing

Rutland Hall Hotel is delighted to announce the launch of Four Roots, a pioneering luxury wellbeing experience designed to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul.

Four Roots offers a gender-neutral, holistic escape from daily life, combined with a wonderfully diverse treatment menu with exquisitely crafted massages and facials available for everyone, including those living with health challenges and fragility. Set against the serene backdrop of Rutland Water, Four Roots offers guests a personalised four-hour journey encompassing the four dimensions of wellbeing. This includes:

• Enhancing your spiritual wellbeing with a relaxing, bubbly bathing experience.

• Promoting your physical wellbeing with a personalised treatment. Choose from a curated selection of unique massages and facials.

• Harnessing your emotional wellbeing with a quiet and relaxing meditation session.

• Nurturing your social wellbeing with a delicious and nutritious dining experience.

Sunil Kanjanghat IS, Director General Manager at Rutland Hall Hotel, commented: ‘We are thrilled to introduce Four Roots as a unique addition to our resort. The investment for this new facility reflects the ongoing commitment of our owners to providing first-class experiences for our guests.

‘We are excited to be offering beautifully curated treatments which are gender neutral and fully inclusive for those living with health challenges and fragility.’

Guests can choose between morning or afternoon sessions, with peak and off-peak booking options available. There is an introductory offer of £139 (Monday to Thursday) and £199 (Friday to Sunday); see p67

Bookings for the Four Roots experience are now being taken. For more information or to reserve your personalised journey, visit the website or call the number below.

Rutland Hall Hotel, Nr Oakham, Rutland LE15 8AB 01572 757901, www.rutlandhall.co.uk/wellbeing/ @rutlandhallhotel

Q&A

WITH DANIEL SANDLER

EACH MONTH THE INTERNATIONAL MAKEUP ARTIST AND FOUNDER OF DANIEL SANDLER COSMETICS, WHO IS BASED IN OUR REGION, ANSWERS YOUR BEAUTY AND SKINCARE QUESTIONS. THIS MONTH HE FOCUSES ON LIPS.

Help! Why does lip liner always look really obvious and how should I choose the correct shade to complement my lipstick?

It sounds like the liner is a bit too dark, so for a softer, more natural-looking finish. Apply one that’s as close as possible, in shade and depth of colour, to your lipstick. What I find works really well is to apply the lip liner after lipstick. That way, you’re left with softer-looking definition, plus if you have a drink or grab a sandwich, you won’t be left with an obvious line around the mouth when the lipstick wears off. You’ll find that silicone-based gel lip pencils will stay put for longer, plus they’ll fill in fine lines, whereas regular pencils may glide on smoothly but wear off easily, which is down to the high amount of oil in the formula.

TOP TIP: Apply foundation and powder around the lip edge to help fill in lines and stop lipstick from bleeding, plus you’ll create a smoother finish when applying lip colour.

How can I make my lipstick last longer?

The first thing you must consider is how emollient the formula is. If it feels greasy or creamy, then the chances are it’s not going to stay put. Opt instead for matte, longwear, long-stay or transfer-resistant formulas that still feel comfortable after a few hours of wear.

TOP TIPS: 1) Skip gloss. 2) Don’t apply lipstick onto greasy lips, so avoid lip oils and lip balms during the day, too – apply those at night. 3) Apply lip liner over the entire lip surface to create a base of colour, then dust a little translucent powder over them. 4) Apply lipstick then blot with tissue. Re-apply lipstick if necessary. 5) You may find that applying lipstick with a lip brush will create a better finish rather than applying straight from the bullet, especially if you like wearing dark or brights.

danielsandler.com | @danielsandlermakeup

If you have a beauty or skincare question for Daniel, he’d love to hear from you. Just email your question to us at nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk.

SPOTLIGHT ON… Duncan Ford Acupuncture

ACUPUNCTURE, an ancient practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to restore balance and promote healing. It is recognised for its efficacy in treating pain, stress, anxiety, digestive issues and more.

• Pain Management: Acupuncture is perhaps best known for its ability to alleviate pain. The procedure stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, and enhances circulation to affected areas, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. It also modulates the nervous system, helping to block pain signals to the brain. Studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in managing chronic conditions like back pain, osteoarthritis, migraines and fibromyalgia.

• Stress & Anxiety: Acupuncture can also help with mental health conditions by regulating the body’s stress response. By targeting specific points, it promotes the release of serotonin and other moodstabilizing neurotransmitters, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Many patients report a sense of relaxation and mental clarity following treatment.

• Digestive Issues: Acupuncture is effective in addressing digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, acid reflux and nausea. By restoring balance to the gastrointestinal system, it can enhance digestion and alleviate symptoms including bloating, cramping, and irregular bowel movements.

• Immune System Support: Acupuncture strengthens the immune system by stimulating immune cell production and reducing inflammation. This makes it beneficial for conditions such as allergies, autoimmune disorders and frequent colds.

• Mechanism & Holistic Approach: According to TCM, acupuncture works by balancing the flow of ‘Qi’ (life energy) through pathways called meridians. In modern terms, the needles trigger a cascade of biological responses, improving blood flow, reducing stress hormones and enhancing the body’s natural healing mechanisms.

By addressing both physical symptoms and their underlying causes, acupuncture provides a holistic approach to health, helping patients achieve long-term wellness. Its versatility and minimal side effects make it a valuable complementary therapy for a range of conditions.

Contact Duncan Ford BA(hons) LicAc for more details on how acupuncture might be able to help you. 07714 575720 | www.dfordacupuncture.co.uk

Spotlight on… navigating a skincare routine

This month, makeup artist Rebecca Chantrell shares her tips on how to create a skincare routine that is perfect for you

The beauty industry has grown astronomically. Whilst this is a brilliant thing for the economy, jobs and people’s wellbeing, the downside is it’s so unbelievably complex to choose products. It’s hard to know where to start, so to help here are some loose rules I set myself, and recommend to my clients.

1

If you have a routine that works for you, stick to it! Don’t feel the need to chop and change.

2 Choose brands based on efficacy and ingredients, not packaging.

3 If you have a specific concern (lines, redness, spots, dullness), use targeted products to address it. Serums are concentrated and best for this.

4 Talk to your beauty therapist or a dermatologist. They can see and touch your skin and analyse it properly; the internet, magazines and influencers can’t. Most salons in the area happily offer skin consultations to help make a skincare or haircare plan for you.

5 Take before and after photos when trying something new, so you have something tangible to look back on and compare to.

MY RECOMMENDED SKINCARE ROUTINE

DOUBLE CLEANSING

Cleanse twice at night. Balms, oils and cleansing milks are best for breaking down makeup. Massage over dry skin and remove with a flannel/muslin cloth, then either repeat this step or use water or face wash to clean the skin. A great analogy (albeit not the most glamorous one) is that I always liken it to cleaning the kitchen floor. Step 1: sweep or hoover to remove dirt (makeup). Step 2: mop to clean the floor (the actual skin).

Your skin will look brighter and clearer after a week! This is also a cost-effective way to dramatically change your skincare routine.

EXFOLIATE

You can use either a gentle physical exfoliation scrub with particles in it, or an enzymatic one containing acids. This is used on a cotton pad, and the acids nibble away and break down dead skin cells. This leaves the skin radiant and soft.

FACIAL MASSAGE

Nothing beats having a professional facial, but in between try using a roller. I got mine for Christmas 5 years ago, and it’s still going strong. I use it when I watch TV, rolling it under the chin, up the cheeks and over the forehead to help with lymphatic drainage, micro circulation and giving muscles a mini workout.

SERUM

Serums contain the most active ingredients – that’s why they cost more than moisturisers. It’s where I recommend investing in your routine, if you want to ramp things up. The main ingredients I look out for are retinoids and peptides, as these actually work!

FACIAL OIL

Facial oils are fantastic for nourishing and hydrating the skin. I use mine under my moisturiser as and when my skin feels dry. They don’t need to be used daily, but are a lovely booster to have in your routine.

FACE CREAM

Face cream, designed to protect your skin, should be used daily. Choose one that suits your skin type. You can use a generic cream that’s suitable for day and night to keep things simple. However, I always pair this with a targeted lightweight SPF during the day. If the budget allows, then separate day and night creams are great. Day creams are normally lighter in weight and contain ingredients that protect skin from daily aggressors. Night creams help restore the skin as it renews and rejuvenates over night.

SPF

Daily sun protection. This goes without saying – it’s your best friend when it comes to protection and preventing premature ageing and damage of the skin. So many amazing lightweight ones are available now.

Rebecca Chantrell makeupbybecca.co.uk @rebeccachantrellmakeup

Friday 14th February 2025

1pm - 3pm

This food masterclass showcases our delicious menus created by head chef Harry with an opportunity to taste the food for yourself.

• Learn more about how our chefs use fresh, seasonal produce to create warming dishes

• Understand how our menus are shaped around residents’ preferences

• Experience a food masterclass and sample the chefs’ fare

• Learn how our chefs cater to a variety of dietary needs, including dysphaxia

Trusted to care.

Pickleball & Padel

They are two of the fastest-growing sports in the world. Have you caught on to the boom in padel and pickleball? Louise Goss talks to the different clubs in the region and learns more about dinking in the kitchen

PICKLEBALL

Think of a hybrid of tennis, table tennis and badminton and you start to get an idea of pickleball. It is something that originated in Washington, USA, in the 1960s, when politician Joel Pritchard and his friend, Bill Bell, made up the game for their families one summer on an old badminton court with some ping pong bats and a plastic ball they found. The game was named after Pritchard’s dog, Pickles! Nearly 20 years later, in 1984, the US Amateur Pickleball Association was formed to advance the sport, and the first composite paddle was made.

Clubs started to make an appearance in the UK in 2011, and it is growing in popularity year on year. The Lawn Tennis Association estimated that there were more than 270 pickleball venues in 2023, and that includes a number in this area in Stamford, Uppingham, Peterborough, Market Harborough, Grantham and the Rutland village of Greetham.

Local WhatsApp groups are brimming with pickleball players arranging practice sessions and matches, and demand is outstripping supply. Many local clubs have waiting lists and are looking for extra court space. Nicki Townsend, who runs the Stamford Social Pickleball group, says what started out as a few badminton players on a couple of courts post-Covid has now become a thriving group playing on six courts twice a week at Borderville Sports Centre.

So why is it proving so popular? ‘A lot of people turned to pickleball as an alternative to tennis, but then realise it isn’t “tennis

light”, it’s a true sport and game with its own skills in its own right,’ says Stewart Hamblin, who runs the Uppingham Pickleball Group based at Uppingham School Sports Centre.

Simplicity & Accessibility

‘One of the reasons it has proved so popular is that it is easy to pick up. You can be playing a game within your first hour, once you’ve been introduced to the basics,’ says Stewart. This makes pickleball attractive to people who want to get started and stuck in without the need for lengthy introductions, coaching and drills.

Jane Strachan, who runs Pickleball Harborough, agrees and says you can also play on almost any flat surface to get an informal game going. ‘It’s simple… it’s quite cheap. You just need a paddle and a ball.’

The accessibility of the game is also appealing along with the relatively small cost of getting playing. ‘The fact it can be played indoors makes it a great option, particularly with the weather in Britain,’ says Stewart.

Pickleball is multi-generational, stemming from its roots with different generations playing together. It is particularly attractive to older people, as pickleball is played on a smaller court than tennis, and the ball travels at slower speeds. ‘It is physically easier to do,’ says Stewart. ‘It is perceived as being more accessible due to the rules and size of court.’

Wheelchair users can also enjoy the game with some clubs offering wheelchair games.

OPPOSITE: Greetham Pickleball Club. RIGHT: Padel at Woolfox.

A Game for All Levels

From beginners to tennis pros, pickleball can be played by any age and ability. Most local groups have beginner taster sessions available, and Simon Rigby, who runs the pickleball group in Greetham, says anyone can get into it, even with no experience. ‘It’s a really positive thing to get people chasing a ball around and get moving,’ he says. After successfully applying for a grant for equipment from Active Rutland, he explains: ‘The level has improved massively from where it was, just from practice and familiarity.’

For those in need of some tougher competition, the game can be played right up to advanced levels. Stewart played at the English open competition in August with more than 2,000 people competing. ‘At its higher levels, it becomes a very skilful cat-andmouse game,’ says Stewart. There’s an area near the net called the non-volley zone, popularly known as ‘the kitchen’. You’re not allowed to volley a ball in that zone, as the name makes clear. That means playing doubles in the kitchen, trying to hit a ball that’s not attackable by your opponent, as they have to hit it up… It’s called dinking at the kitchen – where you’re really trying to tease an error out of your opponent. That’s the soft game. Your hands have to be softer; you’re hitting the ball much softer. That’s why it appeals to so many generations.’

Pickleball England provides details of regional leagues and tournaments. Last year was the inaugural European Pickleball Championships, in which England won the title.

Social Activity

As with most sports, there is a social element that helps players form bonds outside of the practice sessions. A lot of pickleball groups have their own WhatsApp chats and organise social events. Even on the court, there is a certain amount of banter and socialising while waiting for a game. ‘I was standing watching our group of people playing who might not have done much sport before or been tennis players, but there were 24 people having fun, getting some exercise. We may not be playing at international level, but it’s amazing,’ Stewart says.

WHERE TO PLAY PICKLEBALL

• Stamford Social Pickleball

Friday and Sunday evenings

Borderville Sports Centre, Stamford PE9 1US | 07734 819791

• Greetham Pickleball Club

Tuesday evening, Thursday morning & Sunday morning Greetham Community Centre, Greetham, Oakham LE15 7NG 07736 949394/01572 812834 | email: trueace6060@gmail.com

• Uppingham Pickleball Group

Monday night social play & Thursday night more competitive play

Uppingham Sports Centre, Leicester Road, Uppingham LE15 9SB 07922 592195 | uppinghampickleball.com

• Pickleball Harborough

Various days. Membership club with free taster sessions available. Harborough Leisure Centre/Meadowdale Primary/Beecham College, Oadby Northampton Road, Market Harborough LE16 9HF 07895 240555 | email: pickleballharborough@gmail.com

• Peterborough Pickleball Club

Hampton Library Sports Centre, Peterborough PE7 8HG 07796 457960 | email: pep.giuliano@gmail.com

• Castor & Ailsworth Tennis & Pickleball Club Membership club

Club House, Holme Close, Ailsworth PE5 7AQ 07989 856155 | email: ringham01@gmail.com

PADEL

The other sport that is seeing huge growth around the country is padel, with over 500 courts now in Britain. More similar to a mix of tennis and squash, it is played on a larger court than pickleball, divided into two service boxes either side of a net. The court ends are surrounded by glass walls, and the sides are built of metal cages. You can use the walls to let the ball rebound before hitting it back or to try and land it on your opponent’s side of the court.

In a rally, you can aim your shots to bounce and hit the cage or glass to create awkward rebounds for your opponent. The game is also scored the same as tennis and most commonly played as sets or games, according to the team at Woolfox, where they have two outdoor courts. ‘We’re very proud to have opened the first padel courts in Rutland. There’s a real buzz around the courts and we have lots planned for spring and summer, as the weather improves.’

It is another sport that has a big social scene around it. At Woolfox, they say: ‘We are really focusing on growing the sense of community within our membership. It’s such a social sport, we’re looking to bring in new brands and pop-ups to help get people involved in the game and most importantly have fun.’ Again, it is a sport that is relatively easy to learn. ‘Anyone with previous racquet experience should have a good understanding of the game; however, once you understand the rules, it is a very easy sport to pick up quickly.’

If you don’t have your own racquet, they provide racquets and balls to hire at Woolfox. Padel is available for all lifestyle members. They also have a padel membership, which includes unlimited play, changing rooms and options to add on coaching. Non-members are invited to join their monthly padel socials to get to know the game, with non-member padel and pizza socials in the summer months.

WHERE TO PLAY PADEL

• Woolfox

Membership club (lifestyle members & padel memberships)

Great North Road, Nr Stamford PE9 4AQ | 01780 460330 | woolfox.uk

• Market Harborough Cricket, Squash & Padel Club

Monthly drives, private & group coaching.Tots, juniors & adults.

Fairfield Road, Market Harborough LE16 9QH | harboroughcsc.co.uk

Carers who look after everything So you don’t have to.

interview: rebecca downey

Justin Capp Leather

From rural craftsman creating whimsical theatrical masks to luxury highend fashion accessories, Justin Capp is a local leather maker who takes pride in running a creative business that connects to the ancient lineage of the Northamptonshire shoe belt region

JUSTIN CAPP is a man of unique and exceptional taste, and his beautiful home in the Northamptonshire village of Thurning is filled with unusual artefacts, carved furniture gleaned from auction houses and skips. There are cubby holes, beams and decorative cabinets with latticework and unusual textures. The workshop features the proscenium arch of a miniature travelling theatre, and around a central work top are drawers and pigeon holes galore, patterns hang from a rail reminding me of the classic Ladybird book ‘The Elves and the Shoemaker’, and I’m drawn inexorably towards the rolls of leather hides with their distinctive earthy scent and the dual nature of the material, being both suede and smooth.

Justin is Thurning born and bred and has lived in his current house for the last 25 years. He disliked school and was not really interested in conforming, spending his spare time working at a local poultry farm, shutting up the turkeys in the barn every evening. He began working in the local pub at the age of 14 and went full time at 16 after quitting school. Here, he worked behind the bar and in the kitchen. Justin is, by all accounts, an excellent cook; many will have tasted his delicious pop-up paellas and street-style food at various events and festivals in the region. However, as Justin says: ‘The trouble with food is that you have nothing to show for it, because it gets eaten! I wanted to create something with longevity. I was lucky enough to stumble upon some saddlers’ tools at Thrapston Auctions in the early 1990s, and so began a new career path.

Material Boy

Capp has always been fascinated by the history and heritage of the leather craft and its rich history linked to the Nene Valley in terms of the leather industry and shoe production. Justin explains: ‘Barker is a common surname in this area due to the abundance of oaks, the bark from which was used in the leathertanning process, as was the water from the Nene, while the cattle grazing the land provided the leather.’ Justin attended night school and learnt some basic skills and how to use the tools. He began experimenting with carving, surface decoration, moulding and mask making, and discovered the versatility of the material: ‘Leather is a beautiful natural material with mercurial qualities, being neither fabric nor wood, and it has malleability and incredible strength.’ Of course, no two skins are the same. It ages beautifully and can endure brutal treatment, creating a patina, a sheen and colour that changes over time. Justin was also drawn to the simplicity and scope that can come from two basic shapes: the circle and slot. He ran a stall at Cambridge Market in the mid1990s, making leather items for theatre and folklore storytellers.

Fashion Forwards

‘It was pre-internet, so I was advertising through postcards at the Craft Council. I received a call out of the blue and was commissioned to create some accessories for designer Giles Deacon at London Fashion Week, bearing in mind this was around the time of Alexander McQueen, when fashion was incredibly dramatic and flamboyant.’ Justin’s stag beetle belt and silver leather snakeskin bracelets were modelled by Linda Evangelista and Eva Herzigová. A Sunday Times article name-checked Justin, and it became one of the must-see shows of the week.

Justin appears to have embraced opportunities that have come his way. ‘Another time, I was accompanying a friend applying for a job and got chatting with the employers – only to find myself also landing a job interpreting designs and sampling products for Louis Vuitton.’ Justin encourages curiosity and generosity and believes that this philosophy has helped him throughout his career.

Finishing School

‘Being essentially untrained, I was very free creatively, but this was also a drawback, as my finish was awful and my stitching was dreadful,’ he humbly admits. However, leather makers Val Michael and Neil McGregor noticed his talent. Based in Tetbury,

WORKSHOPS & LEATHERWORK CLASSES

For local people looking to acquire a new skill this year, Justin runs one-day workshops in such things as a bus conductor bag, knapsack, wallet, book cover or belt (no experience required) and regular open studio sessions every Tuesday from 2–5pm and again at 7–10pm (£20 for 3 hours) for those working on larger or multiple projects. He can also accommodate private parties of up to six people, should you and your friends want to work on a project together.

the MacGregor & Michael brand is internationally renowned for luxury hand-stitched leather goods. With over 40 years in the business and long-term members of the Gloucestershire Guild of Craftsmanship, they are keen to impart their extensive skills and knowledge to others in the field. Justin trained privately with MacGregor & Michael, honing professional stitching and finishing techniques. He remains modest about his own expertise and accomplishments ‘I returned last autumn for a refresher course, as there is always more to learn’. Justin shows me a large, handmade conker-coloured holdall with exquisitely rolled handles and concealed stitching. On a recent visit to Japan House London (which shows and sells a curated collection of beautifully crafted and innovative items), Justin was thrilled when one of the visitors picked up his bag, thinking it was an exhibit.

The Italian Job

For the last seven years, Justin has been tutoring at the Istituto Marangoni, a fashion school in the heart of Spitalfields, in London, teaching degree and MA students how to design and craft leather accessories. The Institute’s ethos is about learning from makers rather than teachers, and Justin regards humility as an important part of that process: ‘It’s necessary for students to allow the sediment and their expectations to settle down and go in at a very humble level.’ Justin encourages his students to find their individual style using basic shapes and building patterns. His own work reflects his fascination with woven Celtic shapes and knot work. ‘I’ve always been interested in economical designs and the linking shapes of mystical manuscripts, and a lot of my work comes out looking quite warrior or Vikingthemed’, and to my mind, with a bit of punk on the side.

for the latest news & workshop details, follow justin on instagram or email to book: justincapp4@gmail.com | @justin.capp.leather

Rosie the Rabbit

A lifelong lover of rabbits, Shelley Goodwin is now passing on her fondness for house rabbits to the rest of her family including her daughter, Zara, aged four, as Amander Meade discovers

SHELLEY always enjoyed having pet rabbits while growing up, so when her own family’s two dogs passed away, Shelley decided it was time to reintroduce a rabbit into their lives and searched for a reputable breeder.

‘With busy lives, we decided not to have dogs again for a while, and rabbits are so easy to look after as long as you are well informed and follow a few basic rules.’

A personal recommendation led Shelley to Lincolnshire Lops via Facebook. ‘They are highly experienced breeders who are very knowledgeable and come highly recommended,’ explains Shelley, who was looking for just one rabbit. ‘We chose Rosie from a selection of baby rabbits and collected her, fully vaccinated, as soon as she was ready to leave her mum. She’s a giant French lop rabbit in a beautiful slate grey with apricot markings and a classic white bobtail.’ As with any responsible breeder, Shelley had to pass a rigorous checking process to make sure she was equipped with the knowledge and circumstances to offer Rosie a good home.

Living Space

House rabbits need a secure space where they can eat, sleep or hide if they are scared. Their home base area needs to be at least 10ft x 6ft x 3ft (3m x 2m x 1m), though this is a minimum, so the bigger the better. Non-slip flooring is best, so your rabbits don’t injure themselves while dashing about. ‘We give Rosie free run of the house while we are at home but also cordon off the kitchen for her with a baby stairgate when we are out to avoid her chewing cables. Within this space are her bed, food and water bowls and litter tray.’ In the warmer months Rosie enjoys plenty of sunshine and fresh air outside, whilst Shelley has to ensure that both Rosie and her litter tray are kept meticulously clean to avoid fly strike – a painful and potentially fatal condition for rabbits caused by either a dirty rabbit or dirty environment.

‘It’s important to keep any house plants out of reach, as some house plants are toxic for rabbits. Ensure house cleaners and sprays and any medicines are kept out of the way, too. Remember that rabbits can jump very high and squeeze through quite narrow spaces. Some of them also like to climb up on furniture. Take this into account when putting things “out of reach”.’

Diet, Handling & Cost

House rabbits are easy to train to a litter tray, and their diet is simple and budget friendly. ‘Our breeder recommended a mixture of feeding hay, a rabbit mix and vegetables such as kale with some carrots – although not too many, as the sugar content is not good for their teeth. Feeding hay is different to bedding hay. It is fresher, smells different and is usually greener in colour. Hay can

be supplemented with fresh pulled grass, but never feed your rabbit mowed or cut grass, as this degrades very quickly and can cause severe tummy problems.

‘Remember that rabbits can jump very high and squeeze through quite narrow spaces’

‘Although spending time with Rosie is recommended, rabbits don’t usually like being lifted, so instead we sit with her and let her come to us for a stroke. Rabbits are a very easy pet for busy people, as they can happily be left for a while, but they equally need plenty of company and stimulation. For those out at work all day, two or more rabbits are recommended to prevent loneliness, but a lop with plenty of human company is fine as a single. I would definitely recommend them for a young family as plenty of handling as a baby means they grow up very tame, which is ideal for younger children. They cost very little to feed, and although Rosie is insured, it’s very reasonably priced. We all love Rosie and she loves us back – she was definitely the right choice of pet for us at this time in our lives.’

The PDSA have extensive advice on keeping house rabbits at www.pdsa.org.uk

Rosie & Zara

• 3 Outside Play areas

• Separate baby unit

• Home-cooked meals

• High quality childcare from specialist staff

Choosing a School

We shine the spotlight on four outstanding independent schools in our region

e Peterborough School

Thorpe Road, Peterborough PE3 6AP 01733 343357, thepeterboroughschool.co.uk

Next Open Mornings:

• Friday 7 February

• Friday 14 March

Combining the convenience of road and rail links with the safety and tranquillity of an 11-acre green oasis campus in Peterborough, The Peterborough School (TPS) presents a ‘Through School’. From the recently expanded Nursery to the renovated Reception classroom, through the Prep School, Senior School and Sixth Form, students can progress seamlessly.

TPS takes pride in being a welcoming, close-knit school, where each child’s personality, needs, strengths, weaknesses and aspirations are understood. Here, the core mission is to provide tailored education that offers the best opportunities for success, emphasising a nurturing environment resulting in outstanding achievement, unlocking the potential of each and every child.

The school provides the elements each individual child needs to be happy and achieve. Its dedicated staff are committed, driven,

adaptable and experts in their fields. They recognise each student’s potential and work towards transforming that potential into confident, content and successful individuals. The pastoral support is extremely strong, and there is a passionate belief at the school that children learn well and achieve their best when they are happy.

Headmaster, Adrian Meadows, is proud that the long-standing traditions of the school founded in 1895 remain, but at the same time it is a forward-looking, progressive place, where students continually surprise and delight him. ‘I have seen students winning a national STEM award on the same day that the Reception Class and Pre-schoolers enjoyed a Teddy Bears’ Picnic. Being amongst students of such a wide age range is fascinating, entertaining and always interesting, but, overall, it is incredibly rewarding and humbling to be part of such an amazing school and community.’

TPS provides pupils with a continuous and consistent journey of progression and instils ambition, excellence and character with wraparound family support. The school has high standards and expectations, and an equally vast choice of extracurricular activities: Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, a wide array of sports clubs, debating, gardening club, fencing, yoga and rock climbing, to name but a few.

Spring Open Mornings: These are a wonderful way to get a feel for day to day life at TPS. Individual tours of the school are being offered on the mornings of Friday 7 February, and Friday 14 March, at 9.30am and 10.45am on both dates. There’ll be the opportunity to meet the Headmaster and members of the Senior Leadership Team following the conclusion of your tour.

Friday 7th February and Friday 14th March 2025, 9:30am and 10:45am

Spring Open Mornings

Discover The Peterborough School with a personal tour. Explore our campus, meet pupils and speak to our teachers .

‘An unwavering dedication to academic excellence in a caring environment’

Stamford School

Southfields, St Paul’s Street, Stamford PE9 2BQ 01780 750311, stamfordschools.org.uk

Next Discovery Mornings:

• Wednesday 5 February (Senior School)

• Monday 10 February (Sixth Form) •Tuesday 25 February (Junior School)

Set in the beautiful Georgian town of Stamford in Lincolnshire, Stamford School offers superb co-educational schooling for children aged 2 to 18. Established in 1532, Stamford School has a prestigious heritage, but everything there is focused on preparing young people to lead happy and fulfilling lives in the 21st century.

Stamford strives to offer an outstanding, contemporary education. Every child at Stamford is encouraged to be an independent thinker and take the lead in their own education. Students leave with a flexible, adaptable mindset and an approach to learning that equips them to face the challenges and opportunities of their future.

At Stamford School, the academic team will help, guide and support your child to be the best possible version of themselves. The school has a proven track record of producing rounded and grounded students, who are all part of the Stamford story. Within a sound framework of pastoral care and continuous development, Stamfordians leave with the skills and confidence to face the future as independent young adults. At the heart of Stamford

School is an unwavering dedication to academic excellence in a caring environment.

Comprised of a Nursery and Preschool, Junior School, Senior School and Sixth Form, the school is spread over various sites across the town and offers over 55 acres of sports fields, gardens and grounds. It strives to provide a stimulating and challenging curriculum that inspires intellectual curiosity and encourages a love of learning. The belief here is that a student’s emotional wellbeing is paramount to their overall success. The pastoral care system is embedded in daily school life, ensuring that every student feels valued, supported, and understood.

Stamford School offers a well-rounded education that goes beyond academic achievement. A broad range of co-curricular opportunities allows students to develop critical personal skills such as communication, teamwork and resilience. The school provides many clubs, wraparound care, extensive bus routes, and flexible and full boarding options to support its hard-working families.

Stamford will be hosting its next Discovery Mornings as follows: Senior School, Wednesday 5 February (9.45–11.30am); Sixth Form (Year 12 only), Monday 10 February (9.45–11.30am); and the Junior School, Tuesday 25 February. You can book online or by contacting the Admissions team. Families are also warmly invited to take a personal tour at any time in the year, and this can be arranged via the Admissions team by email at admissions@stamfordschool.org.uk or on 01780 750311.

Oakham School

Chapel Close, Oakham LE15 6DT 01572 758758, www.oakham.rutland.sch.uk

Next Open Days:

• Saturday 8 March (11+ and 13+/14+)

• Saturday 17 May (Whole School)

Every day at Oakham is an exciting adventure, filled with opportunities to learn, try new things and build lasting friendships. Whether you are seeking a fresh start, relocating or searching for the right environment for your child’s growth and success, Oakham School is ready to welcome you.

The key to Oakham’s dynamic and inclusive atmosphere lies in its welcoming community of 50:50 girls and boys, and 50:50 day pupils and boarders from nearly 40 countries. Pupils join a House dedicated to their age group, supported by specially trained staff who prioritise their wellbeing. This means as children grow, their Oakham home evolves with their needs.

The school offers day, weekly and full boarding options, so children can enjoy greater flexibility in school life and spend quality time at home and at school. Central dining brings the whole school community together daily to enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Renowned for its extensive curriculum and superb careers support, the school offers 27 subjects at GCSE, as well as both the International Baccalaureate and A-levels/BTECs at 16+, providing students with diverse academic pathways.

Oakham’s co-curricular programme helps pupils thrive. There are up to 30 sport options, ranging from rugby and hockey to sailing and golf, with elite coaching that sees around 60 pupils annually representing their county or country. Music and drama are equally vibrant, with 80 concerts and five major productions each year. Adventurous learning includes over 125 activities for pupils to learn a new skill and pursue an existing passion.

To make the journey to Oakham even more accessible, new bus routes to Loughborough and Oundle are launching soon, to extend the school’s network of nine bus routes across the East Midlands.

‘The key to Oakham’s dynamic and inclusive atmosphere lies in its welcoming community of 50:50 girls and boys, and 50:50 day pupils and boarders from nearly 40 countries’

Discover what Oakham can offer your child by joining an Open Event: Spring Open Day (11+ and 13+/14+) on Saturday 8 March and Summer Open Day (Whole School) on Saturday 17 May. Additional events, including a Sixth Form Open Evening, take place later in the year. Individual visits are welcomed throughout the year. Book your visit online or contact the Admissions Team at 01572 758758 or admissions@oakham.rutland.sch.uk.

Witham Hall School

Witham-on-the-Hill, Stamford PE10 0JJ 01778 590222, www.withamhall.com

Next Open Days:

Please see withamhall.com/openmornings for updates

Located in a beautiful Queen Anne mansion surrounded by parkland, this co-educational country prep for 4 to 13 year olds (day and boarding) offers impressive facilities and outstanding results. Witham is an idyllic setting, where children can be children – strictly no mobiles on site. In a small community of 240 children, staff know every child, their favourite football team and their pet’s name too. The co-curricular sport, art, drama and music offer opportunities for every child to find their interests and build confidence, but the school is academically ambitious for its pupils too. Out of a cohort of 35, leavers secured 16 scholarships in 2024, and pupils move on to a wide breadth of day and boarding schools including Uppingham, Oundle, Oakham, Eton, Rugby, Repton, Gresham’s and Marlborough College

Places are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. The school offers 1:1 visits with the Headmaster, and Open Mornings take place in the autumn and summer terms. Please register your interest with Mrs Rachel Hitchcock by email at admissions@withamhall.com or on the telephone number above.

Indie Food & Drink

In readiness for Valentine’s Day, Ellie Clark meets a local confectioner and a cacao juice innovator who have both followed their hearts to pursue their food and drink passions

THE RUTLAND CHEF

If someone had told me last summer that I could order a customised tub of quite literally any ice cream flavour my heart desired, I am pretty sure it would have taken me the best part of July and August to decide what I wanted. Sam Reilly (aka The Rutland Chef) has produced every type of ice cream for customers in his time, from crunchy caramel with white chocolate to roasted peanut butter, and passion fruit in dark chocolate to brandy ice cream as well as a range of incredible sorbets including cider and prosecco with grapefruit. However, his mouth-watering range of confectionery extends far beyond ice cream, as I discover.

After graduating from Stamford College, Sam was fortunate enough to work for five years at The Olive Branch, where he had the opportunity to engineer some extraordinary sweet treats, but it was the Covid lockdown that finally prompted him to set up his own business in Oakham.

Sam started on a small scale, running a home-delivery service supplying doughnuts and dessert selection boxes to Rutland residents. However, in the last couple of years, the business has expanded exponentially. Sam and his wife Mary now retail an innovative range of confectionery, puddings, preserves, celebration cakes, ice creams and even dog biscuits via their website and they also run a wholesale catering business supplying local restaurants with bespoke ice cream and freshly baked cakes.

My ‘job’ for today is to sample their product range and select a favourite from each category. Somebody stop me!

First up is confectionery: caramelised chocolate-covered hazelnuts, soft nougat and gigantic toasting marshmallows are the three staples in the range. These include an award-winning mixed-nut nougat, plus a peanut butter and strawberry blend, and a traditional roasted almond and raspberry variety. However, my absolute favourites are the delectable and highly addictive chocolate hazelnuts. These are roasted, hand-caramelised, coated in chocolate and then topped with one of a range of scrummy toppings, including cappuccino, caramelised honey chocolate, raspberry and even matcha.

Second up are puddings. The current range features an Amarena cherry Bakewell tart, a clotted cream treacle tart and an almond and cherry flapjack traybake topped with ruby chocolate, flaked almonds and freeze-dried cherries. The flapjack is my hands down winner, but I would urge you to try them all, preferably after a very long walk!

Next up are jams and marmalades. If you like preserves and are looking for something a little different to spread on your toast, then look no further. Sam’s range includes peach and passionfruit, blackcurrant and gin, lemon and bee pollen, and an award-winning grapefruit and bergamot, which scooped both a Great Taste award and also won the World Jam Festival ‘Best in Show’ in 2023 – this one is my favourite, too.

We move on to talk ice cream again, and Sam informs me that not only can you place an order for any customised tub of ice cream combo you fancy, but he also produces his own delicious versions of

the traditional Magnum. His limited-edition creations are available to order between April and September, with previous varieties including roasted strawberry and ruby chocolate, crunchy caramel and white chocolate, and a milk chocolate and banana flavour.

Last, but not least, Sam also caters for our four-legged friends with a range of peanut biscuits. I didn’t sample them myself, but my little furry helper, Elsa, polished off five whilst my back was turned, so they clearly pass the taste test!

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, why not check out Sam’s range of scrummy Valentine’s Day hampers for something a little different and very tasty this year.

therutlandchef.uk | @the_rutland_chef

DRINK KAOBA

Mathew Halford is one of those rare breeds of people who not only has an eye for a unique opportunity, but the passion and persistence to pursue it. Mathew’s working life could be a whole other article in its own right, but having experienced the highs of city life, his heart now lies very much in the health food and drink industry.

At the start of 2025 Mathew, who is Rutland born and bred, launched an exciting new venture. From his base in Oakham, he is setting up a brand-new drinks company that will be the very first to supply a sparkling cacao juice soda on a large scale in the UK.

For any of you already familiar with the cacao plant, you’ll know that the beans from its pods are used primarily to make cocoa, which is subsequently turned into chocolate. However, raw cacao has become something of a cult food in its own right in recent years due to its nutritional value.

So where does cacao juice fit in? Mathew explains that to make cocoa, only the beans are harvested from the plant, leaving behind 10 million tonnes of discarded cacao fruit that is unused each year. The cacao fruit pulp is naturally sweet, with nutrients and antioxidants, and it forms the base for the brand-new, 100% natural, refreshing drink that Mathew has just launched called Kaoba. You heard it here first!

As I chat to Mathew, it becomes apparent to me that the drinks market is saturated at the moment with overly complicated, refined-

sugar-laden options. With Kaoba, he hopes to introduce not just a brand-new, great-tasting natural ingredient, but a product that is simple and sustainable in a world in which people seem to be increasingly looking for transparency.

Having sampled it, I can honestly say it is one of the most refreshing drinks I’ve had in a long time, with a gorgeous tropical pineapple-type flavour, and it’s gently carbonated to just the right level, so it’s energising without being overpowering. It’s low in calories, and, as it just has two natural ingredients, cacao fruit and sparkling water, I can see Kaoba catching on as a great postworkout drink. Mathew assures me, too, that it blends very well as a mixer with Tequila or gin – even better!

On a serious note, however, what makes this product especially significant is that its production supports cacao farmers across South America and also helps our environment by converting what was previously an unused by-product of cocoa production into a very palatable and healthy drink.

‘What makes this product especially significant is that its production supports cacao farmers across South America and also helps our environment by converting what was previously an unused by-produt of cocoa production into a very palatable and healthy drink’

Mathew will be retailing a few varieties of Kaoba initially: an original and a garden mint blend to launch the drink and a ginger with Acerola cherry alternative shortly afterwards. These will be available to buy online and in retail outlets very soon thereafter. Kaoba is available to purchase now via the Drink Kaoba website, so why not give it a try!

drinkkaoba.com | @drinkkaoba

OPPOSITE, LEFT TO RIGHT: The Rutland Chef, Sam Reilly, and his delectable creations. BELOW: the newly launched Kaoba and Drink Kaoba founder Mathew Halford.

Chris Bolan

Executive Chef at The Nevill Arms, Medbourne

Q&A with Chris

Having been brought up in the area – and begun his career as a pot-wash in a pub at the age of 16 – Chris jumped at the chance of returning to the Welland Valley to take up a role with The Three Goats group. He’d been Chef at the Michelin-starred Trinity in Clapham, but, with a young family and a desire to escape the city, he decided that 2023 was the perfect time for a change. Chris is based in Medbourne but also works across the group’s other venues: The Sun Inn at Great Easton; The Red Lion at Great Bowden; and No.23 in Uppingham.

Chris, how would you describe your style of cooking?

‘I like to blend elements of fine dining with traditional approaches, and my focus on using quality local and seasonal produce has helped the pubs and restaurants become “destinations” for dining experiences.’

A favourite dish currently on the menu

‘Great Easton lamb rump, with Colcannon mash, smoked onion crumb, honey mustard parsnip and Persillade sauce. Lamb is often seen as a meat for spring; however, spring just happens to be when they are in highest demand. As the year goes on, the animals grow, and the flavour of their meat develops.’

A favourite ingredient?

‘I enjoy cooking with wild ingredients, so I spend a lot of time foraging for items such as berries and mushrooms. I particularly love cooking with wild garlic – you can find this from the end of February or early March. It often grows in lightly wooded areas and always near a water source. It’s great in, for example, pesto sauces and soups.’

A cooking ‘trick’ to share with readers

‘Whether you’re preparing a soup, a joint of meat or a fish dish, season at the start of the process, not the end, to really enhance the flavour.’

A bit about The Nevill Arms Country Life magazine recently called it ‘a stunning venue’. And The Times just included it in a list of ‘27 of the cosiest places to stay in the UK this winter’.

Chris’s Recipe: Venison Rack Boulangère

serves 2

Ingredients:

1 Italian white onion

50g butter

3 garlic cloves, minced

100ml white wine

500ml good-quality venison stock

3 large Maris Piper potatoes

1 x 4 bone venison rack

Rosemary and thyme

1 x bunch true spinach

Salt & black pepper

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 160°C (gas mark 3).

2. Thinly slice the onion and place it in a

heavy-based pan with a good pinch of salt and the butter. Place a lid on the pan and cook on a low heat, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and soft.

3. At this point add the minced garlic cloves and continue to cook for 2–3 minutes.

4. Add the white wine and reduce to a glaze.

5. Add the venison stock and bring to the boil, then remove from the heat.

6. Peel the potatoes and slice on a mandolin to a thickness where the potato is a whole slice but slightly translucent.

7. Ladle some of the onion/stock mixture into an ovenproof dish or small pan. Arrange 2 layers of slightly overlapping potatoes, lightly season with salt and pepper and repeat this process until the dish is

filled. Place in the oven and allow to cook for 60–90 minutes, or until the potatoes are lightly coloured on top and soft throughout.

8. Season the venison rack and sear in a hot pan until caramelised well all over.

9. Once seared, sit the venison on a trivet of rosemary and thyme sprigs and cook in the oven for 5–10 minutes until medium rare. Remove from the oven, add a knob of butter to the pan and allow to rest for 15 minutes.

10. Slice the venison, wilt the spinach and serve on top of the boulangère.

the nevill arms, 2 waterfall way, medbourne, market harborough le16 8ee. nevillarms.co.uk @thenevillarms

‘Lunch for Even Less’

The Sun Inn at Great Easton is one of a handful of top local restaurants and pubs giving guests this special opportunity.

We’re in the heart of the Welland Valley, serving inspired cuisine using quality local ingredients including meat from our own farm.

Our Lunch for Even Less offer is a set menu, with two courses for just £25, and a third for an additional £5. It’s available on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays (excluding Valentine’s Day) until March 29, alongside our full à la carte menu.

Also taking part are Hambleton Hall near Oakham, Hitchen’s Barn in Oakham,

The Sun Inn is part of the Three Goats group – our other venues include The Nevill Arms at Medbourne, The Red Lion in Great Bowden and No. 23 in Uppingham

The Six Bells at Witham-on-the-Hill

Nicholas & Clare Rudd-Jones visited this village pub with rooms one cold winter’s night and discovered a great ambience, top-notch food and fabulous service

IT IS NOT OFTEN that you go to a pub or restaurant half-hoping that the service will be slow, but this was the predicament we had on the icy evening we arrived for an 8pm booking at The Six Bells. We were trying to drag out the time to when we had to pick up our son Ned in Bourne, coming back from a school trip at 11pm.

From this back-to-front point of view, you could say that we were ‘let down’ by the service, which was speedy, efficient and friendly – absolutely fabulous – throughout. In fact, we had finished our meal long before we needed to set off into the dark, but the wonderfully friendly team said it was more than fine to hang around in the sofa area; and we kept ourselves happy and busy there for an hour before we finally were the last to leave at 10.45pm. No problem for the team at all – we were most impressed.

In the words of our fellow diners on the table next to us: ‘This place has a proper pub feel as well as being a restaurant.’ Spot on. James Trevor, who runs The Six Bells with his parents and sister Lauren, told us that the pub had just re-opened after the Christmas break, and that they had repainted the front room and done various bits of redecoration whilst it was closed. The place has a very comfy feel about it, and the evening we went it was full but didn’t feel crowded, just the happy murmur of conversations as people caught up with each other after a long, cold January week.

THE MENUS

We especially liked the clear way in which the menu was laid out. On the right are The Six Bells Classics, available at any time. These include Napoli-style wood-oven pizzas, fish and chips, bangers and mash, Sirloin steak, Venison lasagne and half rôtisserie chicken. We saw several of these dishes arrive at nearby diners’ tables, and they all looked delicious.

‘This place has a proper pub feel as well as being a restaurant’

the six bells, witham-on-the-hill, bourne pe10 0jh

www.sixbellswitham.co.uk @sixbellswitham

PHOTOS: SIX BELLS

On the left is the seasonal menu that changes daily, to ensure seasonality and freshness. This is more ambitious and decidedly gastro. Being gourmands and in no rush, we went for this side of the menu and opted for all three courses to nurture the tastebuds and eat up time.

OUR MEAL

Clare chose the Suffolk goat’s curd, served with roasted walnut, Granny Smith apple and beetroot for her starter. She described it as ‘beautifully balanced, with the apple adding crispness and freshness to the indulgent yet light curd’. Nick chose the ham hock, black pudding and chicken terrine, which was packed full of flavour. For the main, Clare had roast local pheasant and smoked pancetta, served with pommes Anna, seasonal vegetables and red wine sauce. She loved the richness of the dish, with pommes Anna to die for! Nick had the fillet of sea bream, which came with spinach, new potatoes and lemon butter sauce. He especially appreciated that the skin had been left on, giving the dish an extra crispy deliciusness. And the sauce was rich and superb.

For dessert, Clare picked the white chocolate and honeycomb parfait with Amarena cherries, while Nick, equally indulgently, went for the chocolate nemesis. Both dishes disappeared far too quickly, leaving us with ages to kill before we drove on to Bourne for the late pick-up. We give this establishment our top score. Everything about it was spot on the evening we went.

TEN YEARS OF SUCCESS & ACCOLADES

The Six Bells is run by well-known local restaurateurs Jim and Sharon Trevor, who celebrated their 10th anniversary here last year. Many will remember them fondly from Jim’s Yard days in Stamford and, before that, The Jackson Stops in Stretton. A few years back they were joined at The Six Bells by their children James and Lauren, who had previously run The Queen’s Head at Bulwick.

They have received a Bib Gourmand (good-quality, good-value cooking) two years running now, as one of 127 in the UK and Ireland this year. The citation reads: ‘You’ll receive a warm welcome from the charming team at this bright, characterful village pub. It’s decorated in a personal style with framed maps and menus, and its shelves groan under the weight of cookery books. Dishes are skilfully crafted and chock-full of flavour; choose from sophisticated dishes on the main menu, tempting free-range rotisserie chicken or pizzas cooked in the wood-burning oven.’

PUB HISTORY: The Six Bells was built in 1908 in the Edwardian style by AN Prentice, a well-known architect who had designed numerous houses in the Arts and Crafts style around the country, and had previously been working on The East Range of Witham Hall for its then-owner, Walter Fenwick, a wealthy businessman.

The Six Bells has not always been the village pub. It had been the Black Dog that was situated opposite the gates of Witham Hall, and the grooms from the stables were often to be found there, much to the displeasure of Mr Fenwick. So, he commissioned his architect to replace it with The Six Bells built at the very end of the village, out of temptation’s way. Rather ironically, Mr Fenwick had gained much of his wealth from the brewing industry!

The pub’s name comes from the number of bells at the time in the village’s church, which Prentice had also been commissioned to restore.

This Valentine’s Day there’s no need to worry… love is taken care of.

Book a romantic getaway at The White Hart on Valentines. If this menu takes your fancy, why not upgrade and stay with us for JUST £200 which includes your room and breakfast the following morning. Upgrade your package for an additional £25 to include a bottle of Crémant in the room on arrival.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to create unforgettable memories with your loved one!

The White Hart, Main Street, Ufford, PE9 3BH 01780 740250 info@whitehartufford.co.uk www.whitehartufford.co.uk

Local Briefing

News from the region this month

Rutland Flower Show

Rutlanders Amy, a primary school teacher, and her husband, Tom Mumby, who has a background in events, are the organisers for the new three-day Rutland Flower Show that takes place for the first time this year from Friday 15 to Sunday 17 August at The Rutland Showground in Oakham.

The show will be a spectacular, family-orientated event, bringing together national, regional and local gardening, and flower clubs –not forgetting allotment societies.

It will host many famous gardeners, delivering talks and demonstrations, including Adam Frost from BBC Gardener’s World, Matthew Wilson from Radio 4 Gardeners’ Question Time and Nick Hamilton from Barnsdale Gardens to name a few. Competitions for flower arranging, show gardens, borders and produce will also be held and are available to enter by all, clubs or individuals. A Children’s Garden, flypasts, specialist nurseries, arts and crafts, fine foods and live music can also be expected.

The show sponsors include Gates Garden Centre, Barnsdale Gardens, The George Inn Oakham and Shosa Koi.

More information is available on the show website. Super early bird tickets are now available (until 1 March 2025) and are priced at £10 per adult, £8 OAPs and under 16s free. Tickets on the gate £15 per adult, £12 OAPs and under 16s free. The organisers are also still accepting trade enquiries and encourage local businesses to get in touch via the website.

Friday 15 to Sunday 17 August 2025

rutlandflowershow.co.uk | @rutlandflowershow

Insync Developments

Insync Developments Ltd incorporates a wealth of knowledge, skilled craftsmen and seamless project management to provide a complete turnkey building company within the Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland areas. Whether your project is a new build, extension or renovation, the team at Insync understand the importance of getting every detail right to ensure the project creates a home to match your vision.

At the forefront of Insync, owner Harry Taylor is committed to creating great working relationships with all of his clients. From start to finish Harry acts as a single point of contact for all site meetings, decisions and, most importantly, advice throughout, removing the stress of co-ordinating multiple trades. Harry’s experience and attention to detail enable clients to feel comfortable and in control at all stages of the project.

Along with Harry, the team at Insync are just as committed to their roles in creating amazing spaces. Insync thrives on the ethos of teamwork, which becomes immediately apparent through the great relationships all of the team have with each other.

Client Testimonial: ‘From quote to completion Harry has been the most attentive and diligent project manager we could have imagined. Nothing was ever too much trouble and importantly our judgement of his character – totally trustworthy – has been proven correct. His team have been chosen carefully over time. He picks experienced, hard-working and skilled tradesmen who don’t let him down; allowing him to manage projects effectively and keep to schedule –with each trade “in sync” with the next. It helps that he is always several steps ahead of us in his planning and foresight. As a result, we do not hesitate recommending Harry/Insync.’

insyncdevelopments.co.uk| 07734 383013 / 01858 451600 @insync_developments

Local Briefing

News from the region this month

Lis Naylor Art

Outspoken, bold and full of life, Lis Naylor is a dynamic wife, mother and grandmother whose passion for art mirrors her zest for living. Known for her fearless approach to creativity, Lis embraces bold gestures and a fast-paced style in her work, often painting quickly to capture raw energy and emotion.

Her art, which spans oils, gel prints and silk screen printing, is frenetic and passionate – an authentic reflection of her vibrant personality. With over five years of exhibitions and a career rooted in championing women’s issues, Lis has not only created powerful personal pieces but also worked with under-represented communities across Leicestershire to inspire and empower.

She began working as an artist from a place of catharsis, using creativity as a route to healing and making work that explored and championed women’s issues. This has led to several commissions from various organisations to create work with women in underrepresented communities across Leicestershire, helping them to find their voice and break free from shame and stigma. This has been, and always will be, a vital part of her practice, but her recent work moves beyond this, using diverse art-forms to reflect the joys and passions of Lis’s life now.

Today, Lis’s work explores the joys, passions and vitality of life, constantly pushing boundaries while celebrating the beauty of the present moment. Why not let Lis create a portrait that tells your unique story, whether it be of a loved one, a cherished horse or beloved pet? Or perhaps a perfect Valentine’s gift?

07968 114812 | lisnaylorart.co.uk | @lisnaylor

Men United in Song 2025

Supporting Prostate Cancer UK

Looking for something new in 2025? Men United want men like you to be part of a fantastic pop-up singing project supporting charity partner Prostate Cancer UK. Launching in March, the nine-week project will sign up around 40 local men – most of whom have never sung before – to perform live on stage in a charity concert at Peterborough Cathedral on Saturday 10 May.

No previous singing experience is required to join, just a willingness to get stuck in and give it your best shot. Will Prideaux, director of the project, says, ‘We’re not looking for a Gary Barlow or an Alfie Boe, just bucketloads of enthusiasm.’

Ollie took part in the project last year and says: ‘I’m forever grateful for the laughs, the camaraderie and support from my Men United in Song comrades, who started as strangers and became great friends. This project is for anyone who is thinking they want something challenging in their life that welcomes you, as you. It’s a great way to get back into or start singing, and a fantastic experience all round!’

The project kicks off with sign-up sessions on Thursday 27 February (6.30–10pm) and Friday 28 February (6.30–10pm). This is not an audition, and there’s no big red buzzer, just an opportunity to find out more and get involved – get in touch today (details below) to book your time slot.

01733 425194 | menunited@peterboroughsings.org.uk peterboroughsings.org.uk

Handmade Bespoke Headpieces and Occasion Wear

Custom made to complement your outfit or choose from a range of ready to wear pieces

8 Crown Walk, Oakham, LE15 6BZ T: 01572 490432

E: info@rebeccacouturemillinery.co.uk

Open: Mon & Tues 10am-3pm Thur, Fri, Sat 10am-3pm www.rebeccacouturemillinery.co.uk

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Award-winning Leicestershire artist offering commissions of pets, portraits and more in a variety of styles at affordable prices.

Bringing expertise and delicious high-end restaurant quality food to your home or event. We can design a menu exclusive to you using local produce, giving you the freedom to enjoy top-quality food without the effort.

If you are planning a wedding, event or dinner party contact us today to see what we can do: 07545976882 l simnshell28@aol.com

@lisnaylor lis@lisnaylorart.co.uk +447968114812

lisnaylorart.co.uk

www.simonpollendinesprivatechef.com

Love Stories

February, often a greyish kind of month filled with mizzle, drizzle and fog. But at its heart lies that annual celebration of love when chocolate sales soar, rose sales rocket and candlelit dinners for two are the order of the day: St Valentine’s Day on the 14th. Like many saints, Valentine, an Italian bishop, met a gory end in the third century, martyred for his Christian faith, though actually there was more than one saintly Valentine who met a sticky end. Over the centuries the name Valentine became associated with courtly love, though he’s also patron saint of beekeepers among other things! So, let’s commemorate his memory with some tantalising glimpses of love stories, good and bad, from our counties

words: caroline aston

‘Together they fronted a circle of social glitterati, known for their high living and low morals’

IN 1155 William of Waterville, Abbot of Peterborough, founded a large priory in Stamford. Named St Michael’s, it originally housed 40 nuns drawn largely from aristocratic or gentrified local families. Records show that, as far as chastity was concerned, some nuns fell well short of the mark and enjoyed illicit love affairs, which sometimes bore fruit! Lax regulations provided ample opportunities for scandalous behaviour. But accidents could even happen within the convent itself, as the story of one nun called Elizabeth Wylugby shows. Richard Grey and his wife boarded at St Michael’s, and he somehow struck up a relationship with Elizabeth, who bore his child. In 1442 he appeared before a church tribunal charged with ‘sacrilege and spiritual incest’. Grey was sentenced to excommunication as well as being flogged round Stamford’s churches on four Sundays in his undergarments and on four market days too. He was also ordered to go on pilgrimage to Lincoln Cathedral and walk the last five miles on foot. However, he escaped the public humiliations, as he seems to have suffered ‘so many… sore infirmities of fevers and other kinds… lying in his bed every other day’ that he was deemed unfit to appear ‘without grievous bodily harm’. So, if Elizabeth’s bed had got Richard Grey into trouble, it was his own that largely got him out of it!

Love Triangle at Donington Hall

Donington Hall lies around an hour’s drive northwest of Market Harborough and was once home to the 4th Marquess of Hastings, ( known as Harry Hastings), who was one of the three central characters in a shocking love scandal before his untimely death in 1868, aged just 26. Hastings enjoyed a close friendship with fellow horse racing aficionado, Henry Chaplin. Born in 1840 at Ryhall in Rutland, Chaplin inherited a vast fortune when he was just 21, fully meriting his nickname ‘Il Magnifico’. His contemporaries were entranced when he became engaged to the petite and lovely Lady Florence Paget in 1864. Theirs promised to be the wedding of the year, attended by everyone who was anyone, but Florence had secretly started a relationship with Harry Hastings, well known as a classic ‘bad boy’ with a taste for fast horses, fast women and mackerel fried in gin for breakfast! Wealthy as he was, Henry had none of the sexual magnetism and hint of danger that Hastings had in spades, and Florence fell for the rakish Marquess like a ton of aristocratic bricks.

By 16 July 1862 invitations to the August Chaplin/Paget nuptials had already been sent and accepted. On that fateful day, Florence set off to Marshall and Snelgrove’s London shop to supposedly top up her trousseau. She walked into the shop and crossed to the rear exit, where Hastings was waiting for her in a carriage. They were married that day at St George’s, Hanover Square, London, and honeymooned at Donington Hall.

It was to be downhill all the way after that. The next day, the newly minted Marchioness wrote Chaplin a letter of apology, which he ignored. Playboy Hastings lived for just a handful of years after his runaway marriage; there were no children and his title died with him. But Henry Chaplin had his revenge in 1867: his horse ‘Hermit’ won the Derby after 10 false starts, netting a fortune for his owner, while Hastings lost the equivalent of £15 million

Adeline, Countess of Cardigan, pictured on her wedding day.

by unknown author –from the American Magazine Section of the San Francisco Examiner, 31 October 1909.

pounds in today’s money betting against him. The writing was on the wall and drink and dissipation finally did for Harry Hastings on 10 November the next year.

Devotion at Deene Park

In 1909 high society was riveted by the publication of a salacious memoire written by Adeline, Countess of Cardigan and Lancastre (1824–1915). It was packed with spicy revelations about ‘people… who spend their time hunting, drinking and making love to each other’s wives.’ The author was a controversial character throughout her long life. An exquisite beauty in her youth, the former Adeline de Horsey had sung, fenced and danced into the arms of Lord Cardigan of Deene Park, an estate around 7 miles from Oundle. Cardigan had led the famous Charge of the Light Brigade in 1854 and was notorious for living a separate life from his wife. He plunged into a flagrant love affair with the beauteous Adeline, who was 27 years his junior, and married her in Gibraltar a month after his betrayed wife’s death in 1858.

Together they fronted a circle of social glitterati, known for their high living and low morals, but Cardigan was killed in a riding accident in 1868. Two years later, his widow married the Portuguese Count de Lancastre, though the two largely lived apart after 1879, and Lancastre died in 1898.

The Countess became increasingly eccentric in old age and was often spotted cycling round Deene wearing Lord Cardigan’s skintight cherry-red uniform trousers. She had her coffin made years before her death and sometimes slept in it. She was finally laid to rest in Deene church on 28 May 1915, her body placed beside that of her first husband in a tomb topped by life-size effigies of the scandalous pair: Adeline gazes at her husband, her passion for him caught forever by the sculptor’s hand, a Valentine made of marble.

LEFT:

Photo

THE FEBRUARY WALK

Braunston-in-Rutland

& Launde Abbey

This walk starts at the pretty village of Braunston-in-Rutland, passing through gently undulating countryside towards Launde Abbey. It has wonderful views over the remote Chater Valley and feels beautifully remote

words: nicholas rudd-jones

KEY DATA

Distance 6 miles

Typical time 2.5 hours

Start & finish All Saints’ Church, Braunston (LE15 8QS)

Terrain Some pleasing contours

Stiles 6+

PIT STOPS

• The Blue Ball 6 Cedar St, Braunston-in-Rutland, LE15 8QS (01572 722135, theblueballbraunston.co.uk). Good food and a really friendly place located opposited the church. Ideal post-walk.

• Launde Abbey Dairy Café Launde Abbey, East Norton, Leics LE7 9XB (01572 717254, laundeabbey.org.uk) is open daily for morning coffee, lunch and afternoon tea from 10am until 5pm.

POINTS OF INTEREST

• Braunston: All Saints’ Church dates back to the 13th century. It is notable for its medieval wall-paintings and odd-looking clock face. As you pass the west end of the church you will see a pagan figure standing at the foot of the tower. Theories abound as to what it signifies or exactly how old it is. The River Gwash flows to the south of the village. This sinuous stream subsequently runs into Rutland Water and then on to Ryhall before taking a big loop and joining the River Welland to the east of Stamford.

• Launde Abbey is an Elizabethan manor house, extensively modified, originally built on the site of an Augustinian priory, Launde Priory, dating back to 1125. Thomas Cromwell, Henry VIII’s chief minister responsible for the dissolution of the monasteries, so liked its position that he wrote in his diary ‘Myself for Launde’. At the close of Hilary Mantel’s ‘Wolf Hall’, he lovingly recalls it moments before his execution.

DIRECTIONS

1

Cross over the stile at the west end of the church (the righthand path), walking in a westerly direction close to the right edge of the field. Cross a ditch and then the diminutive River Gwash over a footbridge.

2

Once over the river, follow a broad track between two fields as far as a gate. Once through the gate, you will soon pass South Lodge Farm on your right-hand side. At the end of a long, thin strip of a field, cross to the other side of the tiny stream and follow it on the other side to the end of the next field.

3

At this point the path cuts diagonally across the field to a stile in the far left-hand corner. Once over this stile, head across a field (wet in winter) towards an opening at the top of the hill.

4

Once on the bridleway at the top of the hill, turn left along it to the next gate; turn right here, then immediately right again through a gate into a field, following a track down to the outbuildings of Withcote Lodge and then past Cottage Farm.

5

Follow the (small) road to Launde Abbey, crossing the River Chater, then taking the bridleway left (east) that is just short of the abbey.

6

Follow this path east and then take the path heading north (the Leicestershire Round continues east). This path rises back up to the ridge bridleway; turn right (east).

7

Halfway along Top Windmill, take a well-marked footpath signed to the left; this wends its way back in a north-easterly direction to Braunston. On entering a field, you will find a bench immediately on your right with good views of the village.

8 As you approach the church again, skirt round the left of the farm and climb back over the stile into the churchyard.

ABOVE TOP: Braunston church. ABOVE BOTTOM: Launde Abbey. OPPOSITE: rolling countryside looking south into the Chater Valley.

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Alright JACK

This

month Steve Roberts introduces us to saxophone quartet Alright JACK

IENJOYED discovering my ignorance when confronted with the joy of the saxophone quartet Alright JACK. When I went to hear them play, at a charity concert for the Cransley Hospice Trust in Desborough, I had assumed that saxophone quartets were a rare thing. The very enjoyable chat I had with the group at the interval put me right. Happily, a saxophone quartet is not rare at all – my wife reminds me that we went to see the Fairer Sax a few years back! The UK also boasts a handful of bigger sax combos, and three of the members of Alright JACK – Ann Churcher, Jane Smith and Kathy West – co-founded the Phoenix Saxophone Orchestra, a 17-strong group, in 2020. If the big sound of Alright JACK is any guide, then a whole saxophone orchestra must be fulsome indeed.

The bunch of troubadours that comprise Alright JACK is completed by Chris De Verteuil on tenor sax; Ann plays soprano, Jane plays alto and Kathy plays the melodious big beast that is a baritone saxophone. I guess Ann is the leader of the group, but it seems a pretty democratic and friendly foursome who all contribute equally to their wide and varied repertoire. The night I saw them play, their set went from traditional through jazz, musicals and pop, with a few diversions along the way; numbers included The Skye Boat Song, My Baby Just Cares for Me, Almost Like Being in Love, Misty and a version of The Three Degrees’ When Will I See You Again.

The mixed repertoire is no surprise when one discovers the backgrounds of Jane, Ann, Chris and Kathy (the initials make the JACK in their band name). Retired music teacher Ann seems to have been playing music most of her life. She is classically trained and a devotee of classical music, but also loves vocal, jazz, concert band and more. She started as a pianist, recorder player and clarinettist but fell for the saxophone at secondary school and promised herself she would buy one with her first pay packet. However, life got in the way, and she was 48 when her husband gave her a saxophone one Christmas.

Jane started her musical journey, like so many others, by playing recorder at primary school. She progressed to the oboe but ceased playing after her schooldays, until she received a saxophone as a 40th birthday present. She has not stopped since. In addition to Alright JACK and the Phoenix Saxophone Orchestra, Jane sings and plays tenor sax with the 24 Carat Jazz trio. She somehow finds the time to run her own PR agency too!

Kathy, a physics teacher (now semi-retired) and originally a French horn player, continues the band’s somewhat serendipitous journey to playing the saxophone. Her son was due to holiday with a friend, and Kathy had forgotten to cancel his lesson. She recalls getting round the problem by saying ‘Do you mind if mummy borrows your sax and has your lesson?’ The son is now a professional jazz saxophonist, and Kathy plays in the Harborough Big Band, the Soul Band ‘Raise the Roof’ and the free Jazz Band ‘Ka Safa’.

Chris actually got his saxophone quite early in life. Originally a clarinet player he persuaded his parents to buy him a saxophone when he passed his Grade 8 clarinet exam. The love affair began and it has continued to blossom ever since. He has played tenor saxophone in Rutland Big Band and Brass Wind and Fire (Market Harborough’s big band). Chris also composes. He wrote and produced music for Tolethorpe productions for a decade and writes scores for independent films.

Despite all their individual musical adventures Alright JACK make sure they find the time to perform regularly together. They are greatly in demand for weddings and private parties, enjoy performing in care homes and particularly give themselves to charity concerts, where they often perform with the Trinity Singers, a choir that Ann leads and conducts.

for more information or to book alright jack, go to their facebook page: facebook.com/alrightjacksax