Stamford Living January 2015 by Best Local Living

Loving where we live!

STAMFORD LIVING

A Country Stroll

www.stamfordliving.co.uk

@LocalLivingUK

Featuring: New Year Fashion Beauty Bargains Fitness Resolutions Design Interiors Creative Writing Competition Eating Out for Less Local Recycling Great Local Food & Drink Events Guide JANUARY 2015 ÂŁ1.50

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STAMFORD £295,000

This modern home offers immaculately presented family accommodation, set over three floors, benefitting from a garage and driveway offering parking for up to three vehicles. The property is located in a popular area of Stamford with good access to the town centre, local amenities and the A1. Built by Jelsons approximately six years ago, benefits include gas-fired central heating, uPVC double glazing, kitchen with integrated appliances and utility room with cloakroom. Accommodation comprises: Entrance Hall, kitchen breakfast room and lounge dining room. Stairs and landing to first floor, master bedroom with en-suite shower room, two further bedrooms and the family bathroom. Further stairs to the second floor accessing two good sized bedrooms. Outside there is an enclosed garden to the rear giving access to a parking area and single garage.

WEST DEEPING

£765,000

This beautifully presented barn conversion, converted in 1997 to a high standard, is set within private mature gardens of approximately 0.28 of an acre with views over countryside and St. Andrews Church. The property is approached by a long gravelled gated drive with accommodation comprising: Ground floor: Reception hall, light drawing room with wood burner, bespoke kitchen dining room with integrated appliances and Aga, study/bedroom five, shower room, cloakroom, laundry room and side entrance hall. First floor: Main landing leading to a minstrel galleried landing, master bedroom with en-suite and three further bedrooms. Outside there is a detached garage with large workshop to the rear and room above. This could easily be made into a self-contained office or annexe, subject to planning.

EASTON ON THE HILL £269,500

This detached bungalow is set in a quiet cul-de-sac location, within this ever sought village which offers good access to Stamford and the A1. Versatile and well presented, the accommodation briefly comprises: Entrance hall, kitchen breakfast room, lounge, dining room/bedroom three, two further double bedrooms and bathroom. Outside there is a low maintenance garden to the front with a driveway leading to a single garage, and a private well maintained garden to the rear. Viewing highly recommended.

TICKENCOTE

£347,000

This pretty semi-detached stone cottage is approached by a double driveway and is set in the heart of this sought after village overlooking the Church and only a short drive to Stamford, the A1 and local amenities. The property has been much improved in recent years and enjoys the benefit of a re-fitted kitchen breakfast room and a self-contained annexe. Accommodation comprises: Covered entrance lobby, entrance hall, cloakroom, sitting room with open fireplace, dining room, kitchen breakfast room overlooking the rear garden. To the first floor there are three bedrooms and a family bathroom. The annexe consists of a large open plan studio with kitchen area, bathroom and cloakroom. Outside, there are enclosed and well maintained gardens to the front and rear and a larger than average garage.

Call us now for more information

3 Red Lion Street, Stamford PE9 1PA

01780 765060

email: mailroom@knightpartnership.com

www.knightpartnership.com

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STAMFORD LIVING

January Contents www.stamfordliving.co.uk

@LocalLivingUK UPDATES, SHOPPING

Here comes 2015, are you ready for it?!

Updates: The Loft Hair Boutique; The Nene School of Dancing; Nigel Davis Marketing 22 Updates: Shaws Coach trips; Moores estate Agents expand; How to Cook Paella 39 Updates: New head for Stamford High School; Stephenson Smart 21

hat will make 2015 a great year for Stamford? The same really as makes a great year for an individual – staying fit & healthy, learning new things, enjoying culture, experiencing beautiful surroundings, thriving on good fellowships. So here are my Stamford wishes for 2015: Staying fit & healthy: Support the brilliant Borderville Sports Complex in the Ryhall Rd which is already doing so much to broaden and deepen people’s sporting ambitions Learning new things: Celebrate the progress being made by the new leadership team at the Stamford Welland Academy, and look forward to the new vocational initiatives from the new Principal at New College, Stamford Enjoying culture: Don’t stay in, go out. Support the Arts Centre, The Corn Exchange, live music, exhibitions etc. Experiencing beautiful surroundings: Preserve and enhance our ‘green spaces’do not cave in to the property developers! Thriving on good fellowships: Get behind the 200+ clubs and societies we have in Stamford. There is truly something for everybody, give it a go!

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY 8 12 16

Fashion: Slim Pickings Health & Beauty: Beauty Bargains New Year, New You

HOME, GARDEN, MOTORING, TRAVEL 5 Design Solutions: ‘Clutterbug’ solutions 41 Through the Keyhole: A Dream Kitchen 43 Property: Nest Estates

…and of course, being all-round contented.

Nicholas Rudd-Jones Publisher

Editor Nicholas Rudd-Jones 01780 765571 nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk Write to Stamford Living, PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY www.bestlocallivingliving.co.uk Advertisement Manager Claudia Bayley 01778 425502 claudia.bayley@btinternet.com Advertisement Director Helen Walton 01780 754801 helen.stamford@btopenworld.com Advertising Copy Rachel Beecroft 01780 765320 rachel@locallivingdesign.co.uk Head of Design Steven Handley steve@locallivingdesign.co.uk Senior Designer Nik Ellis nik@locallivingdesign.co.uk Publisher Nicholas Rudd-Jones 01780 765571 nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk Published by Local Living Ltd, PO Box 208, Stamford, Lincs. PE9 9FY nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk Printed by Warners of Bourne Cover Photograph by Sari O’Neal, Bigstock.

FOOD & DRINK 33 Eating Out: Jackson Stops, The Castor Coffee House 28 Eating Out: Lunch for Less

ACTIVITIES, CULTURE, LEARNING & BUSINESS 19 27 36 43 46 53 54 57

Anyone can Knit! Civic Society Creative Writing Competition Recycling Learning: Lord Hill opens the SES Performing Arts Centre Choosing an accountant, solicitor or financial advisor Great Days Out: Foxhunting Country Stroll: Uppingham, Bisbrooke, Seaton What’s On

PEOPLE & PLACES 49 People: Udaya Thapa 62 Stamford People: The Leadership team at Stamford Welland Academy

Subscribe to Stamford Living For only £20 (UK only) you can subscribe to Stamford Living for a year (12 issues). Please send your name, address and a cheque made out to Local Living Ltd to: SL Subscriptions, PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY Or you can subscribe via the website at www.stamfordliving.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2015

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advert 2013 - stam merc art:Layout 1

1/5/13

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Page 1

Independant . . . your local estate agent!

goodwinpropertyservices.co.uk goodwinpropertyservices.co.uk

Are you thinking of moving? Five reasons that set us apart : • Being one of the most recognisable and popular brands in the area provides us with a competitive edge.

• A local branch with local people - we know the residents, the schools and the area.

• Our central location within Stamford Town Goodwin Property Services, led by Robert Goodwin and Simon Burton, have built their reputation, living and working in Stamford for over 40 years. The local market needs that local knowledge to truly assess values, market forces of supply and demand, relevant technology and marketing techniques as well as the numerous other issues involved in the buying and selling process, making our experience invaluable. The unique combination of experience we have at our disposal really does mean we can provide levels of advice, in terms of using property for investment or retirement planning, that is difficult to match. If you are thinking of going this route drop in for a chat and we will explain more. Being recognised as the area’s leading independent agent is also something we value highly. The ability to change direction quickly as and when the need arises should not be undervalued. We are not target driven but want to act in our client’s best interests at all times. You are dealing with the people who run the company and really care about what you think.

Are you thinking of moving ... buying, selling, letting? and don’t know who to turn to?

Our reputation is very important to us. We really do feel that openness and honesty are two of the greatest tools at our disposal, and when combined with W E of C professionalism, A R E A B O Uoffer T W H A that T Whard E to D be O beaten. ! our degree Whether you are lookingwe to sell aorservice rent out is your property

Whether you are buying, selling or letting, the why right not letagent us help you. the most important decision is choosing All you need to doset is contact us : call, email or visit the website Five reasons that us apart : to help. At Goodwin’s, we take the time to listen to your and we’ll do the rest! • One of the most recognisable specific needs. Working together, we will discuss how present your house to achieve the best return within to and popular brands in the area your timescales. • Local branch with local people

. . . your local estate agent! With over three decades of experience within the • Central location within Stamford Town Centre Stamford area, our team prides itself on the personal • We are truly independent attention they provide. –with Partner’s attention throughout the process Let us show you why not all agents are the same. • Local independent Mortgage Broker Buying, Selling, Letting - it’ll be our pleasure!

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goodwin 01780 750000 Residential Sales • Lettings • Mortgages

www.goodwinpropertyservices.co.uk

Sales Stamford, • Lettings Mortgages 2-3Residential St John’s Street, Lincs• PE9 2DA

goodwinpropertyservices.co.uk

01780 750000 2-3 St John’s Street, Stamford, Lincs PE9 2DA

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DESIGN IDEAS

‘Clutterbug’ solutions My house is never tidy. And that’s a fact recently confirmed by my 8-year-old boy when he returned home from a friend’s house that is ‘so much nicer and tidier than ours’ and ‘why can’t ours be like that’?. This is the state of how we live; Hats and gloves permanently live on the stairs or the radiators. Newspapers, letters and food items on the kitchen worktop (does anyone have a clear worktop?). Toys are scattered everywhere. Bits of unidentified objects on the fireplace. And lets not even start with shoes! So what a better excuse than your own children wanting a tidy house to go shopping for storage solutions? Here is what I found in some of Stamford’s best independent shops. Photography by Elli Dean www.ellideanphotography.co.uk

Harrison & Dunn: New England by Tobs storage bags, available in blue & white and grey & white stripes, and comes in various shapes and sizes. The ones pictured are £14.99 for the large bag and £5.99 for the small one.

Paradise Found: Wooden box, £29.95

Snow Designs: Map book boxes, £19.95 each Nook Furniture: Stuff Bag, £8.99

Harrison & Dunn: Tubrugs flexible tubs available in lots of sizes and colours. The ones pictured are the mini ones, £0.99 each.

Snow Designs: Wicker basket with handles, £25 Right: Lambs: Oxo (£5.99), Ryvita (£7.99) and Jacobs (£7.99) designed tins.

Love It: Gorjuss storage tins available in more sizes and colours. Tins pictured are £5.99 each.

Love It: Tool Tin, £19.99 STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2015

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Shutting it in or shutting it out? Whatever You Need, We Have The Solution... Garage Doors

Blinds

New, Repairs & Servicing.

Made to Measure. Roller, Venetian, Vertical, Roman & Pleated

All types supplied including Roller & Sectional.

Automate existing doors.

Insect Screens

Shutters

Air & light in, insects out. Internally or externally fitted.

Commercial, Industrial & domestic.

Compact design

Professional, friendly & personal service.

Security/Decorative.

No obligation Free quotations .

Deeping St James, Peterborough PE6 8TE

Call: 07709 337647 Securing your property in style!

Maiden Lane Stamford

Tel: 01780 755409 Open Mon-Sat 10am – 5pm

16 North Street, Stamford, PE9 1EH

www.countrytraditionals.co.uk

www.jlball.co.uk

Stockist of Artyfarty designs – home accessories - www.artyfartydesigns.co.uk

01780 481416

WINTER PROMOTIONS

NOW ON UP TO 25% OFF

View our web site for further offers

Free delivery Disposal of old bed Bespoke beds made to your required firmness

View our range of luxurious hand made Vi-Spring beds at our Peterborough & Stamford stores.

Should you ﬁnd you have made the wrong selection of comfort after 30 days and before 90 days you may change your Vi-Spring mattress for another free of charge, please ask for details.

Peterborough Store

Phorpres Close, Cygnet Park, Hampton, Peterborough.PE7 8FZ Tel: 01733 891568 fitzgeralds4@btconnect.com

Stamford Store

West Street, Stamford, PE9 2PS Tel: 01780 762908 Fitzgeralds01@btconnect.com

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All images are local installations by Orchard.

More Choice, More Style, More You Conservatory Showroom 1 Meadow View, Uffington Road, Stamford, PE9 2EX Open: Monday to Friday 8am – 5pm Saturday 9am – 1pm T: 01780 753343 F: 01780 482926 E: orchardwindows@live.co.uk

Kitchen Showroom 22-23 Scotgate, Stamford, PE9 2YQ Open: Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm Saturday 10am – 3pm T: 01780 481850 F: 01780 481132 E: orchardkitchens@live.co.uk

16/12/2014 09:35

FASHION

Slim pickings January is always a difficult month for fashion – winter stock looks dark or is in the sale and new spring stock is arriving steadily with new shoots of colour. Sally Stillingfleet takes a long hard look at a couple of ‘Super Slimmers’ Julie and Gary and runner Emma, who are embracing new challenges for 2015 JULIE & GARY Just over eleven stone in weight, Julie embarked on a life change when she met Cambridge Weight Plan Consultant Jayne Bolster. Jayne helped Julie lose the weight and suggested she became a consultant in her own right. Now both Julie and huband and business partner Gary run their own business in Easton on the Hill offering fantastic support, CWP programmes and invaluable morale-boosting chats. Both understand the process from their personal perspectives and are adverts for sticking to something and reaping the rewards. “People say you’re so lucky; it’s not luck. The plan does work,” Julie explained. Gary saw the results of his amazing shrinking wife and decided to lose weight; after being an active man he slid into the spiral of takeaways and inactivity. Gary decided he could offer men the support and encouragement they need to start shedding pounds.

Both Julie and Gary agreed it was difficult to get excited about clothes “when psychologically you have made up your mind it won’t fit!” At Energy of Stamford, Sarah and Claire “were brilliant!” Julie enthused. “When you are bigger you dread trying on jeans - finding jeans which are a size 10 instead of a size 22 was fantastic!” Sarah fitted both out in new jeans with matching floral shirt for Gary; Julie had the casual Postcard from Brighton treatment, with a layered look. Paul Richman fitted Gary out with a smart evening suit and Julie wore the dress she chose for their Slimmer of the Year awards dinner. Gary: - Replay Anbass jeans £130, Scotch and Soda shirt £80 and jacket £230 all from Energy. Suit from Paul Richman. Julie: - Pepe Regent jeans £90, Postcard from Brighton pink top £55, vest £30 all from Energy.

STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2015

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EMMA Emma Sowden embarked on a gruelling challenge to run five marathons in 2015 in memory of her father, who lost his battle with cancer at 59. With immense encouragement from the Stamford Striders running group Emma is running for The Institute for Cancer Research. Having set up her own estate agency business with Tom Wallis in May Emma was thrilled to have the run of Arch Label Agency close by her new premises. Having dropped two dress sizes through her training she tends to favour darker

Navy silk Madderson sleeveless ruffle blouse £80, Derek Lam navy skirt £150

colours and wanted a change. Susie from Arch picked out a beautiful silk Todd Lynn dress which she could easily wear in the office for showing clients round properties. A shorter hemmed skirt and little blouse could equally work well at Sowden Wallis or for nights out. If you would like to support Emma & Cancer Research, you can donate at https://www.justgiving.com/Emma-Sowden2 She is also doing a 50km run on Aug 23rd 2015 Red Todd Lynn printed dress £190, worn with patent Miu Miu shoes £120, all Arch Label Agency

Julie and Gary Spires – Slimmer of the Year finalists jspires2011@hotmail.co.uk Julie mob: 07590 695871 Gary mob: 07974 376606 Energy – 9 Ironmonger St. Tel. 01780 765633 Arch Label Agency – 43 St. Peter’s Street. Tel. 01780 764746 Many thanks to Karen and the Maples team for hair and make-up. Tel. 01780 752 725 24 St. Mary’s St. Stamford. Pictures by Elli Dean (07932 055548) www.ellideanphotography.co.uk

STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2015

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It’s time to get personal with Robinsons Citroën

Specification includes: Air Conditioning Height Adjustable Drivers Seat DAB Radio Bluetooth & USB Connectivity 7’’ Mirror Screen

£129 deposit& £129 per month on Elect 4 Personal Finance Lease

DS3 1.6 VTi 120 Dstyle

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C1 1.0 68 Feel 3dr

Specification includes: Air Conditioning Radio/CD Player Bluetooth & USB Connectivity 16’’Alloy Wheels LED Daytime Running Lights

£199 deposit& £199 per month on Elect 4 Personal Finance Lease

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All Inclusive Fixed Price Servicing from

£129

3 3 3

Courtesy Car/Local Lifts Available Service Valet Included Experienced Citroen Technicians

WE WON’T BE BEATEN ON PRICE

Robinsons Citroën

Storeys Bar Road, Eastern industrial Estate, Peterborough, PE1 5YS - 01733 341628 www.robinsonspeterborough.citroen.co.uk Fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the Citroën range are: Urban 34.4 (8.2) – 78.5 (3.6), Extra Urban 55.4 (5.1) – 88.3 (3.2), Combined 45.6 (6.2) – 83.1 (3.4). CO2 emissions are 163 - 87 g/km. MPG figures are official EU test figures for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. Elect 4 Personal Finance

Lease offers apply to qualifying new vehicles ordered and delivered between 01/12/2014 - 31/03/2015. One initial advance rental will be required. Rentals shown are based on a 48 month contract with an agreed 6,000 miles per annum, excess mileage charges may apply if the agreed annual mileage is exceeded. Payment of the optional final rental extends the rental term (this does not transfer title of the vehicle) and requires an annual rental equivalent to one months’ rental. All rentals are inclusive of VAT. Finance subject to status. Over 18s only. Written quotations available on request from Citroën Financial Services, Quadrant House, Princess Way, Redhill RH1 1QA. Vehicles shown are for illustration purposes only. These offers supersede all previously advertised offers and are subject to availability. Prices correct at time of going to press. E&OE.

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s n i a g r a B y t u a Be HEALTH & BEAUTY

Perch & Preen Perch & Preen relocated from Oakham to Stamford last May (find the salon next door to Harrison & Dunn, just along from Stamford’s Post Office). If you are looking for affordable, friendly beauty services, it is a one-stop shop. Owner Faith Bailey believes that looking groomed should be an affordable, enjoyable and regular experience rather than something that her clients have to save up for and schedule weeks in advance. It’s challenging to find any treatments that cost more than £20 and many of the salon’s most popular services cost just £5. There’s a no appointment system, so you can just go along whenever suits you best – whilst this means you may have a short wait at busy times, the friendly “neighbourhood” feel of the retro boutique-inspired salon means that you will always feel welcome. Most popular treatments are eyebrows – waxing is just £5 and tinting an additional £5, eyelash tinting is £5, lip wax and chin wax also cost just £5 each and a file and polish on hands is just £6, or £11 on feet – perfect when you just need a quick and affordable boost for a big night out, or just to feel a bit more glamorous. Look out for news, offers and updates on the salon’s Facebook page, Perch & Preen. • Perch & Preen, 4 All Saints’ Street, Stamford, PE9 2PA

Genevieve Potter has scoured our local beauty establishments to bring you some indulgent yet affordable treats (all for under £20), for the month of January

Pick-me-up at Equilibrium SPECIAL OFFER: Equilibrium has put together a special January pick-me-up package just for Stamford Living readers. You can choose any of the two treatments below for just £20. You must take both treatments at the same time and you’ll need to have booked and enjoyed your treatments by 31st January 2015. Please book early (this offer is bound to be very popular) quoting Stamford Living at the time of booking. Offer subject to availability.

Express Facial (20 mins) Indian Head Massage (20 mins) Back Massage (20 mins) File and Paint Hands or Feet Eyebrow Wax and Tint Microdermabrasion (15mins) Fish Pedicure Eyelash Tint • Equilibrium, 7 St Paul’s Street, Stamford PE9 2BE Tel: 01780 757579 www.equilibriumstamford.co.uk www.facebook.com/equilibriumstamford

STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2015

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A spa at home from Renaissance Turn your bathroom in to a spa with an affordable at-home treatment that will leave you feeling uplifted and energised. Micheline Arcier luxury bath and shower exfoliating crystals from Renaissance cost £20 and are a fantastic, multi-tasking treat. Use the crystals to polish your skin from top to toe and then soak in the water to wash away your stresses. Containing the purest aromatherapy ingredients, they smell heavenly. • Renaissance 2 Mallory Lane, Stamford, PE9 2FW Tel: 01780 763768 www.renaissancebeauty.co.uk

£20 treats from Essence of Beauty SPECIAL OFFER: Essence of Beauty has some fabulous £20 January offers for our readers, too. During the month of January when you mention Stamford Living at the time of booking, you can enjoy any of the following luxury treatments for just £20 – 30 minute instant skin reviver facial, a long-lasting Shellac manicure, or Shellac pedicure, a standard custom manicure or standard custom pedicure, a back, neck and shoulder massage, HD (high definition) brows or a Hopi ear candle treatment. • Essence of Beauty, 15 St Mary’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DF Tel: 01780 763564

A glowing body at Maples January is the perfect month to head to Maples for some exclusive Clarins taster treatments. You can try some of Clarins’ most advanced body treatments in special 30 minute sessions for just £20 each: The Body Lift Sculptor works to intensively streamline body contours with skilled sculpting massage and will help to achieve a toned, silky smooth body. A great boost for the New Year detox. Firming age corrector restores the youthful firmness of the skin to restore luminosity and smoothness. There are also some luxurious Clarins products for less than £20, including the iconic bath and shower concentrates (£19 each). Choose either the “tonic” or “relax” version. The “tonic” helps to revive your body with an invigorating release of rosemary, mint and geranium essential oils. The lather is gentle enough for the most sensitive skins and will tone and cleanse from top to toe. The “relax” contains wonderfully soothing aromatic basil, camomile and petit grain. It is a perfect treat at the end of the day to soothe a busy mind and relax tired muscles. • Maples, 24 St Mary’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DJ Tel: 01780 752725 www.maplesofstamford.co.uk

C Boost at The Advanced Skin Clinic Help to give your immune system a welcome boost after over indulging with The Advanced Nutrition programme’s Vitamin C+. Containing 1000Mg of Vitamin C – a daily dose is the equivalent of eating 22 grapefruit! Vitamin C contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue and promotes a normal energy-yielding metabolism. It is also an important antioxidant that contributes to the protection of DNA, protein and lipids from oxidative stress and helps maintain the normal function of the immune system. A month’s supply of Vitamin C+ normally costs £22, but is available for £19 when you mention Stamford Living at the time of purchase before the end of January 2015. • The Advanced Skin Clinic , 8, High Street, St Martin’s Stamford, PE9 2LF Tel: 01780 481155 www.theadvancedskinclinic.co.uk

Detox at Emma Cannings Emma Cannings at The Stamford Garden Centre is the place to go for some post-Christmas detoxing. The Pinks Boutique crystal eye revive is a wonderfully soothing and uplifting treat for puffy, tired eyes. Using specific massage techniques to decongest the eye area, cooling crystals are also used to promote sparkling, wide-awake eyes. SPECIAL OFFER: For treatments taken during January 2015 you can book the crystal eye revive treatment for just £20 (please mention Stamford Living at the time of booking). The salon is also offering 15% off all Pinks Boutique detox products purchased during January, including the lemon grass and mandarin range. • Emma Cannings, Stamford Garden Centre, Great Casterton, Stamford PE9 4BB Tel: 01780 766583 www.emmacannings.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2015

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LOCAL PRIVATE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS Specialising in treating: • Low self-esteem and loss of confidence • Low mood, depression, self-harm and suicidal thinking • Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations • Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks • Attachment and relationship difficulties • Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual) Adult Speciality

Johan Truter

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

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Practitioner

Dr Alexandra Dent

Mbl: 07986 585270 www.alexandradent.co.uk

Orion House, 14, Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE Church Street Practice, Melton Mowbray LE13 0PN

Gift Vouchers Available

Happy New Year Chiropody/Podiatry • Treatment for Various Skin & Nail Conditions • Budget Toe Nail Cutting • Free Foot Care Advice • Hard Skin Removal • Painful Corns • Verruca Treatments Room available • Simple & Casted for rent Enquire within Orthotic Design • Diabetic Foot Care

For natural family health & wellness call

01780 758535

You were born to be healthy!

Drained of Energy? Raised Blood Pressure? Pain? Elevated Cholesterol? Not Sleeping Well?

Sound familiar? These are all signs that your health is starting to crack! Let us help you get back on track, naturally! Orion House, 14 Barn Hill, Stamford. PE9 2AE

Web: www.in-nerve-ative.co.uk 14

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DO YOU HAVE THICK UNSIGHTLY YELLOW FUNGAL NAILS?

New Year! New You! Taster Clarins Tri- Active Treat 1/2hr for only £20 CHOOSE EITHER:

Body Lift Sculptor Intensively streamlines body contours with sculpting massage. A pampering shortcut to a body that is svelte toned and silky smooth. Great for the new year detox. Or Firming Age Corrector Restores the youthful ﬁrmness of the skin and brings back luminosity and smoothness. A must have body youth boost!

10% off any Re-style booked in January

spoil y ourself you deserve i t...

WHY NOT TRY ‘CLEAR A NAIL’

- A SIMPLE SOLUTION TO A COMPLEX PROBLEM A NEW one off treatment, unique to Snowdens Foot Clinic: • Not harmful to you or the nail. • Does not involve oral medication or the use of anti nail fungal agents currently available over the counter or from your GP. • Only takes approximately half an hour for a full treatment. • Extensive research and a large number of pilot studies have been carried out by Southampton University with excellent results. • Virtually painless treatment

*First 5 people to book this treatment will receive it for only £75 per foot - normal price £99

Also Chiropody/Podiatry Treatments For: • • • • • •

Embarrassing or painful feet • Cracked heels • Arthritic feet Corns & callus • Thick or discoloured nails • Ingrown toe nails Nail surgery (a full package) • Orthotics (corrective insoles) Gait Analysis/Biomechanics • Foot mobilisation technique Bunions • Routine chiropody • Circulation checked routinely Free foot health clinic (15 mins)

BEAUTY & NAIL SPA FOR MANICURES PEDICURES EYELASH & BROW TINTING WAXING AND MASSAGES Snowdens Hospital, Scotgate, Stamford, PE9 2YF Tel: 01780 762244 - www.snowdensfootclinic.co.uk

The Loft Hair Boutique welcomes Tracey to their friendly team. With over 30 years experience Tracey is a wealth of knowledge in all aspects of hairdressing.

“A Safe Place to Talk”

Free, confidential & unbiased advice. Had an abortion, baby loss or miscarriage in the past or know someone that has? Feel the need to be able to talk to about it in a Safe Place? Alternatives offers free confidential unbiased support • • • • •

Tel: 01780 765853/ 07913052159 office@alternativesstamford.co.uk www.alternativesstamford.co.uk facebook.com/alternativesstamford @altstamford

or drop in any Mon or Thur 9-5 Ryhall Road, Stamford PE9 1YA. (located within the Hospital Site behind Sheep Market Surgery)

Registered charity 1129379

10% off with this advert in January on appointments with Tracey.

Tel: 01780 757781

10a Upper Floor, St Paul’s Street, Stamford, Lincs. PE9 2BE 15

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

VP Fitness Vicky Player offers personal training within a 15 miles radius of Stamford, working with clients who may feel totally intimidated by going to the gym and just don’t know where to start (she also works with people who are already exercising regularly and need an extra push to train harder). She offers bespoke training plans, 1-1 training, circuits and boxercise classes and nutritional support for weight loss or gain. Vicky is currently studying for a GP Referral qualification specialising in back management, obesity and diabetes. Cost for a one hour personal training session is £35, or a block- booking discount is available. For more details go to www. vppersonaltrainer.com

New Year, New You If your New Year’s fitness resolutions are likely to fly out of the window during January, Genevieve Potter finds fitness professionals in the Stamford area who are ready to help

Stamford Personal Fitness and Boot Camp Rob Dulieu of Stamford Personal Fitness and Boot Camp offers classes and private personal training sessions starting from around £20 which break the mould – because they are never the same twice. Operating six days a week, Rob’s no-nonsense philosophy has won him a legion of fans. His top tip for fitness motivation? “Draw a line under what has gone before. The past is history, so focus on taking positive action right now.” www.stamfordpersonalfitness.co.uk Tel: 07846 457959 info@stamfordpersonalfitness.co.uk

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VITAfitUK Alexander Russo at VITAfitUK offers Personal Training Services in Stamford and can help you to define and achieve your health and fitness goals – whether to change shape, shed fat or increase muscle. He believes that the right training, the right eating and a determined and consistent approach are the keys to success. After a one-to-one consultation and assessment, Alexander can provide an effective and practical six week programme which involves two personal training sessions plus sessions for clients to undertake during their own time. www.vitafituk.com getintouch@vitafituk.com

Andy Henson Andy Henson is an experienced level 3 personal trainer and member of the Register of Exercise Professionals. He works with both individuals and groups, with much of the core work carried out with free weights, body weight, Kettlebells and suspension training. All this takes place in a gym, the client’s home, outside, or even at the Grange Spa situated just north of Bourne. Andy sees best results when his clients have a goal to keep them focused, whether that’s a holiday, wedding, or just a real need to improve their fitness. Sessions cost £35, £160 for five, or £300 for ten. Tel: 07891 444189 a.henson255@btinternet.com

The Studio Barn, Manton Personal training is for absolutely anyone with a desire to improve or change any element of their body through nutrition and exercise. The team at The Studio Barn, Manton, will ensure that your exercise is both safe and effective, building a personalised program from relevant exercises and around any sporting interest you may have. Di and Paul are friendly, motivational trainers and you couldn’t find a better setting with totally private use of the well-equipped and iconic Inspire2tri Studio barn at Manton with on-site private parking. Single sessions are £40 with multiple-session and small group or partner discounts available. And there’s flexibility to build your own package including advanced nutrition (with Kate), physiotherapy (with Julie) and exercise classes such as Kettlercise® and Aerobics for all round support. The Studio Barn, Manton Tel: 01572 244224 http://inspire2tri.com/programmes/personal-training/kettlercise or search Facebook for “Kettlercise Rutland”

Ryhallite Fitness Debbie Rolfe of Ryhallite Fitness offers fitness classes at several local venues to help people lose weight and get fit. On your first visit you’ll be measured using Tanita Body Composition scales, as well as being given nutrition advice. Classes are kept varied including step aerobics, but don’t worry if you haven’t put on a pair of trainers in a while! Debbie feels that the strength of Ryhallite Fitness lies in being part of a club, with like-minded people who may have already achieved their goals, or are still on the journey, sharing their highs and lows. Joining fee is £8.50 and classes thereafter are £5. For more details and timetables, contact ryhallitefitness@ hotmail.co.uk or call Sarah on 07775 431059.

Judith Ewing Judith Ewing has been working in the fitness industry for 25 years. She is known for her upbeat approach to fitness and her service stretches as far as Newark, Grantham, Stamford, and Oakham, where she can train you at the venue of your choice. Catering for all levels from beginner to athlete, she provides an online support service via email, phone and Skype. Prices range from £30-£40 per session, but for January and February 2015, Judith offers “buy 10 sessions and receive 2 free”, to help you stick to your new regime and save money. Her top tip for those looking to get fit? “70% kitchen, 30% gym. Your body is a reflection of your lifestyle, so eat healthily and exercise consistently.” www.judithewingfitness.com Tel: 07771 866123, or search for Judith Ewing Fitness on Facebook.

Feel Fantastic Fitness If you’re a lady who needs a trainer with bags of energy and enthusiasm to keep you motivated, Rachel Ekins of Feel Fantastic Fitness can help. Rachel currently trains from the Stamford School Sports Centre, (with plans to expand to additional locations in 2015) and she charges £15 for 30 minutes (perfect if you’re really tight for time), or £25 for 60 minutes 1:1 personal training. She specialises in healthy weight-loss and body-image improvement training with women, supported with nutrition and supplementation, if desired. Tel: 07703 789639 rachel@feelfantasticfitness.com

Mojo Boot Camp Mojo is an established health and fitness company, created by highly qualified personal trainers who work with individuals, groups, companies and also with sports clubs. With their unique message “a healthy body means a healthy lifestyle”, they aim to promote the benefits of a fitness programme. Jon Sheehan and Vicky Player, the Mojo trainers, are passionate about the value of exercise. Jon comments: “Our training is accessible to everyone, regardless of their starting level of fitness, and is a fun and novel way to be motivated.” There are fitness classes running on a Monday evening, Friday morning and a new class for 2015 starting on Saturday mornings. Mojo Boot Camp’s website www.mojobootcampstamford. co.uk contains a wealth of information on general health issues and helpful tools and more details about getting your mojo back! STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2015

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MAKE 2015 YOUR BEST LOOKING YEAR YET VITAFITUK OFFERS COMPREHENSIVE, SCIENCE-BASED PERSONAL TRAINING PACKAGES VITAwoman to tone and enhance body shape VITAman to build lean muscle, torch fat and sculpt a masculine physique • Physical Assessment • Individually-tailored Exercise Programmes • Sustainable Nutrition Plans • Body Fat Analysis, Bone Mass, Muscle Mass, Hydration Status, Posture Analysis 12 week programmes (24 x 1 hour sessions) £625 6 week programmes (12 x 1 hour sessions) £325 ALSO AVAILABLE FOR OPTIMAL RESULTS: • Highest-Rated Supplements • Luxury Skincare Package with self-preserving, chemical-free products

For your Complimentary 30-minute Consultation Call Alexander Russo, BSc Sports Science (Hons) 07843 010402 getintouch@vitafituk.com www.vitafituk.com

FLEXIBILITY. STRENGTH. ENDURANCE

Clear Ridge Veterinary Surgery Robert Pontefract B.V.M.S., M.R.C.V.S., Certificate in Veterinary Ophthalmology

• Comprehensive Diagnostic and Surgical Facilities (Doppler Ultrasound, Operating Microscope, ECG etc) • Caring & Dedicated Health Care for Your Companion Animal • 24 Hour Emergency Service • Free Parking

43 Empingham Road, Stamford

01780 764333 18

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LOCAL BUSINESS ENTREPRENEURS

Libby Summers – Anyone can Knit!

“I DON’T WANT TO MAKE MONEY FOR ITS OWN SAKE, BUT TO DO SOMETHING USEFUL WITH IT.”

Antonia Scott catches up with local Knitwear Designer and fellow Stamford High School contemporary, Libby Summers How it all began.... Libby describes her childhood growing up in Stamford as ‘idyllic’ and after leaving Stamford High School, studied Social Anthropology at St Andrew’s University. On graduating she took a research and consultancy role in Cambridge, before moving to London and working as a violin teacher for the next 15 years, which she combined with starting her family.. “During this time, I moved to Surrey to a close village community and befriended other women who were finding outlets for their creativity in businesses as diverse as felting, bread making, soap-crafts and bespoke lampshades. It was an inspiring environment to be surrounded by people who were realising their creative potential and I finally felt confident enough in my own hobby of knitting to bring my knitting needles out into the daylight and started to make hand knits for family and friends. I set up my website in 2006 and soon after moved back to Lincolnshire to be near my family. I sold ready-made hand knits until 2013, when I chose to give up teaching altogether and at the same time change the focus of the business from ready-made to ‘make your own.’ I rebranded the business to Libby Summers Ltd and decided to launch my own brand of knitting yarn and now have twelve stockists around the country, selling my yarn, kits and knitting patterns. My first knitting book ‘Anyone Can Knit’ has just been published.”

Inspiration, Motivation, Vision and Drive.... “I want to create products that people feel they just have to make because they are aesthetically beautiful, but also useful therefore I design objects that can be used, either around the home - cushions, blankets, hot water bottles, or to keep people warm scarves, hats, socks, garments. In terms of the colour, shape and design of a product, I get a lot of inspiration from travelling to new places and from the landscapes around me; the colours for

my first yarn collection were reminiscent of the landscapes I enjoyed as a child while on holiday in Scotland.” Libby says that she only realised recently how strong an influence school had on her – by inspiring a sense of ambition and a drive to be independent and resourceful, which has remained with her. Part of Libby’s vision is to inspire and help people gain fulfilment and satisfaction from making things out of wool. “It is such a versatile and wonderful natural product. The process of knitting or crochet is also relaxing and therapeutic and so has many health benefits - physical, emotional or psychological. I am currently teaching pupils to knit at Copthill School. They have picked it up really quickly and get so excited when they finish something. I think that equipping children with a skill for life like this is such a valuable thing to do and the club is now the favourite hour of my week!” Libby’s ambitions don’t stop locally - “I would like to be in a position one day to use my work and experience of business to help empower vulnerable women, whether in the UK or abroad. I don’t want to make money for its own sake, but to do something useful with it.”

Passion, belief and mantras! Libby loves the William Morris quote that you should ‘have nothing in your house that you do not know to be beautiful or believe to be useful’. “I don’t quite have the funds to be able to live by that, but I aspire to it! Having met Debbie Bliss - leading UK knitwear designer - I found her rags to riches story very inspiring, and admire her tenacity. Now I just need Elton John to buy one of my jumpers too!” Libby will be running an Anyone Can Knit workshop at Ewe Wool Shop: 17c St Mary’s Street, Stamford on Sunday 15 February. Contact the shop for more details. Tel: 01780 765351. Libby’s book Anyone Can Knit is available from Stamford’s Ewe Wool Shop and also from Stitch Upp: 12 High Street East, Uppingham, Rutland, LE15 9PZ. Tel: 01572 850032. • For more details www.libbysummers.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2015

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UPDATES

Always wanted to learn to dance? Now’s your chance!

re you a toe-tapper? Someone who can’t sit still when music plays? If you are, then why not take advantage of a new challenge: put yourself into full motion and learn to dance? Janina Mossman, Principal of the The Nene School of Dancing, who has forty years of dance teaching experience, is offering a new Beginners’ Class with friendly, expert tuition in Ballroom, Latin and Social Dance in Stamford, at the United Reformed Church, beginning on Friday 16th January 2015, 8.30-9.30pm. Janina has already made a bright start in Stamford over the last year, teaching the traditional ‘Strictly’ favourites. “It seems only a short while ago,” she says, “that the class of 2013-14 Beginners first donned their dancing shoes, took their partners in ballroom hold and began to find their way into the Waltz, Quickstep, Rumba and Cha Cha.”

David has been dancing at Janina’s Stamford class since it started last year. “I love the dancing and really look forward to our regular class. It’s obvious that Janina’s an expert dance teacher, but she’s also good fun so we learn without pain! It’s great, too, to make new friends. We seem to have gelled really well.” Now in its second year, the same class is still dancing - enthusiastically and still having fun. And their enjoyment doesn’t stop at their hour’s tuition. Many also come to the Saturday Social Dances and the regular Sunday Tea Dances that Janina holds in the lovely Ballroom in Stamford Arts Centre. • If you would like to join Janina’s new Friday Beginners’ Class in January or, if you have had some previous dance experience and would like to join her Thursday class in Stamford instead, please contact her on 01778 590655 www.neneschoolofdancing.co.uk

The Loft Hair Boutique

Five letter word…beginning with ‘b’?

he Loft Hair Boutique opened its doors a year ago, and to celebrate in style Claire decided to throw an alternative birthday bash! Claire’s sister Michelle is raising awareness for Asthma UK by running the 2015 London marathon, a charity close to her and her daughter who both suffer with asthma. Local businesses donated charity prizes for a raffle which helped kickstart the funds Also new to The Loft is Tracey Barford a senior stylist of over 30 years experience, a welcome addition to Claire’s growing team Set along St Paul’s St, Stamford’s emerging ‘cool style spot’, The Loft is rapidly becoming the most sort after salon to get your hair styled at! • 10a St Paul’s St, Stamford Tel: 01780 757781

Nigel Davis reflects on the importance of presenting your brand in the best possible light f I say to you the word “brand” what do you imagine; big corporate businesses like the supermarkets and banks? Perhaps that’s why these five letters have become a dirty word in some circles. But instead of bankers and their bonuses, think twenty two year old fresh out of college at their first job interview. Put yourself in their shoes; shoes that are clean and polished. You stayed in the night before and washed your hair, pulled out your best suit and printed off a glowing CV that will surely set you apart from the other twenty candidates. Handshakes are firm to demonstrate confidence and you are meticulous in your choice of language offering precise and positive replies to questions. This is just personal branding and like it or not, it will play a large part in how you are judged. Every business in the country has some sort of brand, not always an enviable one, but they all have a brand. A brand is all that a customer or potential customer will experience and come into contact with. It’s far more than a logo; it’s represented in everything you do, from answering the telephone to your presence online, your advertising, promotional material, clothing, vehicles and even the colour of paint on walls. Of course it includes how you treat your customers

and ultimately is all about creating a positive, professional perception. However, the first impression a potential customer will get is usually the visual identity. Some companies spend thousands on brand development while others think it a job for a relative who has a working knowledge of Microsoft Word! But search online or flick through any magazine, even this fine publication, and see if you can guess into which camp each business belongs. Poor presentation is the same as turning up for that interview in last night’s wardrobe and today’s bad hair. A professionally produced identity demonstrates that you are bothered, that you treat future customers with sufficient respect to warrant a second look. Remember, the brand is the foundation upon which we base the strategy and go on to develop the website, social media, multi-media advertising, PR and all the pieces of the jigsaw that come together to form a marketing mix. I am reminded of a conversation I had recently with an hotelier and was surprised when they told me “we don’t believe in marketing”. I enquired as to how business was. “Not great” they said. • Nigel Davis Marketing Limited info@nigeldavismarketing.co.uk www.nigeldavismarketing.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2015

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UPDATES

Moores Estate Agency V

ernon Moore is opening a second outlet in Stamford, this time in Sheepmarket, in the historic building beneath the bus station. A fabulous stand-alone position that, when it is re-furbished, will give a really classy feel to the residential side of the business, with topiary bushes outside and a brass plate. “The Stamford residential market has evolved a lot over the last year,” Vernon told SL “and we felt the time was ripe to separate our lettings and residential business. Letting will stay in our St John’s St address, whilst our residential will switch to the new location, offering a highly personal service. The main residential business in Stamford will be headed up by Harriet

Norton, and the Country & Equestrian business will be headed up by Jenny Moore, with its own dedicated room. 70% of purchasers at this upper end come from outside the region, and Moore’s marketing and London associates are very important at bringing in new buyers. Moores was recently shortlisted for Marketing Innovation in the Sunday Times estate Agency of the Year Awards. They are launching Marketing Suites in the Fist Class lounge at Grantham station and by first class in Peterborough, so once again are aiming to expand the market. • Moores Estate Agents, 12 St John’s St, Stamford, PE9 2DB Tel: 01780 484555

Shaws Coaches

“An easy, cheap and delicious paella in Stamford”

Laura Alcazar is studying English in Stamford and bringing a bit of Spanish flair to the town

ocal coach tour company, Shaws Coaches, has just launched their new collection of Door-2-Door holidays for 2015, along with the latest edition of their award-winning day tour brochure. Featured holiday destinations include a spectacular tour of Scotland’s magical Outer Hebrides, the beautiful Isles of Scilly, Edinburgh’s world famous Tattoo, the Isle of Man, holidays by the sea and a hand-picked selection of European scenic tours including Shaws’ unique ‘Battlefield’ tours. All include their hugely popular ‘Door-2-Door’ Service and the option of free travel insurance.

You can find out more at the company’s Coffee Morning in Maxey Village Hall on Tuesday 20 January, when there’ll be an opportunity to see a film show about the company’s holidays and to meet members of the team. There’s no charge for the event – and refreshments are free - but as the Hall has limited capacity, visitors are asked to prebook by calling 01778 342224 (or e-mail sue@ shawscoaches.co.uk) to book a place. Why not take a look, too, at Shaws’ latest day tour programme which features some super ideas for a day out? Special Offer sightseeing and shopping trips start from just £10 pp and top West End shows from only £45 pp. Particularly recommended are the firm’s new ‘Something Special’ days which include a Coalport China Limited Edition tour where you can make your own posy bowl; a chance to see the world’s last flying Vulcan aircraft and a trip to The Shard followed by Afternoon Tea on the River. • For further details of all Shaws holidays and day trips, free brochures and gift vouchers, ring 01778 342224, call at our office at 49 High Street, Maxey, Peterborough, email enquiries@ shawscoaches.co.uk or visit our website www.shawscoaches.co.uk.

love paella and I like cooking it! and when I arrived to Stamford an English family invited me to cook paella for them at their house. It was a delicious dinner! They enjoyed the paella and I was very pleased! Would you like to cook tasty paella too? I’m going to tell you an easy and cheap recipe to cook delicious paella at home - it’s my particular recipe so I hope neither chef get angry about it! Ingredients for four people: • Two garlic • 1/2 red pepper • 1/2 green pepper • Parsley • Olive oil • A coffee spoon of smoke paprika • Two or three calamari • 1/2 kg of mussels (you can buy it fresh in Waitrose) • 10 or 12 prawns with peels (you can buy it frozen in Waitrose) • Rice for paella (you can buy it in Sainsbury’s). The measure is one glass or cup of rice for two people. • A litre and half of water (the double of rice) • Yellow condiment or saffron The most important for the paella’s flavour is the broth or juice. To make a good juice you must put a litre and half of water in a saucepan. Add a bit of olive oil and a pinch of salt, then add the mussels and only the peels of the prawns (defrost before) and wait for a few minutes to be boiling it. After that, strain the juice and retire the mussels without peel and keep them for the end. Now we are going to prepare the ingredients to start to cook. Firstly chop the garlic and the peppers and keep them. On the other hand wash, clean and cut into strips the calamari. You can use a big frying pan to cook the paella. Put a good splash of olive oil and stir-fry the garlic, the red and green pepper, the parsley, and the smoked paprika for two or three minutes, add the calamari and wait a few minutes more. You can add a bit of salt to the mix. Add two cups of rice, stir it well and add the saffron or yellow condiment. Now is the moment to cover all of it with the mussels and prawn’s juice (the measure is the double of juice to rice, so you can put four or five cups in) and it must simmer about twenty-five minutes. In the last two or three minutes of the boiling add the prawns and the mussels.

STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2015

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Art Class Starts Soon ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS TO IMPROVERS WILL LOVE THIS COURSE! NEW ART COU RSE!

We are now ta k enquiries for ing our next course. This really is a fun course an great way to d a meet new friends and develop new skills. Ple as now for a cha e call t. Best wishes, Jacqui

GREAT NEWS for all our readers looking for something fun to do over the next few months! There is a 14 week part-time Art Class (3 hours a week, mornings or afternoons) starting soon.

pencil drawing & sketching, Oil pastel painting and techniques, painting and blending with water colours and acrylics. Step by step tuition in the basic techniques and secrets needed to create beautiful pieces of art.

SEASIDE VISTAS

The course is designed to be fun for Absolute Beginners who have never picked up a brush before through to Improvers.

By the end of the course, students have created a minimum of 8 pieces of their very own original art they can enjoy forever, from Beautiful Countryside Landscape Scenes to Incredible Seaside Vistas

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDANCE

YOUNG AT HEART

ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS TO IMPROVERS - JUST LIKE YOU!

We adapt to each student’s needs and give them all the guidance and help they need to develop their artistic skills. The curriculum is fun, comprehensive and interesting. Over 14 weeks we will explore 4 different media;

S NEW LAS C ART

This course is a brilliant way to learn new skills you will be able to enjoy forever. It is also a great way of meeting new friends and to have a fun experience you will always remember and cherish! It is open to adults of all ages.

MEET NEW FRIENDS, LEARN NEW SKILLS

This part time course is over 3 months, so will give you plenty of time to master your new hobby.

STUNNING SURROUNDINGS Inspirational country venue. Enjoy beautiful landscaped gardens and magnificent surroundings every week.

LIMITED PLACES

To maintain a high standard to our classes and the tuition you will receive, classes are kept to small numbers – so places available are limited! We recommend that if you are interested, you call now for a chat.

For information on dates, course fees and bookings, call now on

01832 273 749

Bring out your inner artist • Beginners to Intermediates

ARTCLASS

Part-time 14 Week Course, 3Hr Classes Once a week

SA0121_14

HAYCOCK HOTEL, WANSFORD (easy access to A1/A47)

LIMITED SPACES - CALL NOW FOR DETAILS

STARTS SOON

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EST.1967

SOFAS OF DISTINCTION

WINTER SALE STARTS SATURDAY 27TH DECEMBER

Visit our Stamford showroom, on Bath Row opposite Adnam’s Wine Store 01780 762579 WWW.DELCOR.CO.UK

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St Whites Stone Ltd STONE MASONS & CARVERS

SALE HUGE REDUCTIONS ♦

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ITEMS! For a quotation for a hand worked stone ﬁreplace/chimney piece or a general enquiry for all types of stonework Please phone Rosie on 01780 450350 or 07931 387615 Email stwhitesstone@btinternet.com • • • • • •

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“Hurry”1/2 Price Winter Sale DO NOT MISS OUT Superking Linking Beds Over 1500 Pocket Springs FREE Drawers

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FREE 4 Drawers Was £1499.95

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Disposal of O

LD BED

Phorpres Cygnet Park, Cygnet Park, West Street,Close, Stamford. PE9 2PS Close, Peterborough. PE7 Hampton, Peterborough. PE7 8FZ 8FZ (just along from Waitrose) (behind Dobbies Garden Garden Centre) Centre) 4’6’’ Cream Iron Bedstead

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Uffington, Stamford PE9 4TD or telephone: 01780 757 946 www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk

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COMPETITION

A Sense of Place:

What Stamford Means to Me A creative writing competition for 14 - 16 year olds

tamford Civic Society and Stamford Living are jointly sponsoring a creative writing competition to encourage young people to think imaginatively about Stamford. The theme of the writing could be Stamford’s historic or contemporary buildings, its open spaces or what it is like, was like, or may be like in the future to live in the town.

What is the competition about? The challenge: Students must identify an aspect of Stamford that inspires them – it could be a building, or a special place, or something memorable that happened to them whilst they were in town. It could also be events from Stamford’s past, present or future. They should present their ideas in a short piece of writing. All forms of writing are welcome and could include fictional, imaginative responses, or be in the form of reportage, inspired in some way by Stamford. Entries could include illustrations if these are essential to support the writing. Entries will be reviewed and shortlisted by a screening panel including teachers and representatives from Stamford Civic Society and Stamford Living. The judging panel will select a winner and a runner-up from the shortlist.

What are the prizes? The winner will receive Walker’s book tokens worth £100 and their entry will be published in Stamford Living and on the Civic Society’s website. The runner-up will receive Walker’s book tokens worth £50. All winners and shortlisted entrants, and their guests, will be invited to a prize-giving event in Stamford in early May 2015, where prizes will be presented.

What are we looking for?

ILLUSTRATION BY LUCY WALTERS

“Students must identify an aspect of Stamford that inspires them – it could be a building, or a special place, or something memorable that happened to them whilst they were in town. It could also be events from Stamford’s past, present or future.”

A winning entry will: • Be creative and original in putting ideas across. • Make people think about the chosen aspect of Stamford in a new way. • Be a maximum of 750 words.

How to submit entries

Who can submit entries?

Entries should be emailed to info@stamfordcivicsociety,org.uk by Friday 27 March 2015 at the latest. The subject line in the email should say ‘A Sense of Place: Creative Writing Competition’.

• Young people who live in Stamford or surrounding villages or who go to school in Stamford. • Students who are aged 14 -16 years on 27 March 2015. • Individual students, not teams. • Entries are restricted to one entry per student.

Entries should consist of: • The piece of creative writing, together with any illustrations. • The entrant’s name and title of the piece of writing which should be given at the top of the entry. At the end of the entry they should provide their date of birth, school attended, school email address and the name of the town or village where they live.

For information: • Stamford Civic Society works to conserve and enhance the built and social fabric of the town, and to inform people about Stamford’s fascinating history. Find out more at www.stamfordcivicsociety.org.uk • Stamford Living – publications aimed at helping you get the most out of living locally. Find out more at www.stamfordliving.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2015

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EATING OUT

Eating out for Less Once you have got over your Christmas and New Year Festivities, why not use the start of the year to explore some of the many fabulous restaurants in the region that you haven’t tried yet. All at incredibly affordable prices. The Crown Hotel, Stamford All Saints’ Place, Stamford, PE9 2AG Tel: 01780 763136 http://www.kneadpubs.co.uk/our-pubs/the-crown-hotel The magnificently re-furbished Crown has a great new informal menu to match, which is worth trying out whether you want a three-course meal of just a light snack. Check out the website for the latest special offers.

The Crown Hotel

Exeter Arms, Easton-on-the Hill 21 Stamford Road, Easton-on-the Hill, PE9 3NS Tel: 01780 756321 www.theexeterarms.net The Exeter Arms exudes rural charm and always offers a warm welcome. Fantastic January food offers include: a burger and beer for £10, Chips for two on Wednesdays for £15. Garden House Hotel, Stamford High St, St Martin’s, Stamford, PE9 2LP Tel: 01780 763359 www.gardenhousehotel.com Where better to come and relax after the travails and pleasures of the Christmas season? The Garden House always offers excellent value. Lunch for Less for two is £22 for 3-coursesaltogether, or 2-course for £17 for two! Jackson Stops, Stretton Rookery Lane, Stretton, Rutland, LE5 7RA Tel: 01780 410237 www.thejacksonstops.com Robert Knowles, Head Chef for many years, took over the whole business in the autumn and it continues to thrive. The menu here is always strong and you will not be disappointed. In January, they will have the daily changing menu lunch for less for £12.95. And keep an eye out for any further seasonal offers online. The Toft Hotel Toft, PE10 0JT Tel: 01778 590614 www.tofthotelgolf.co.uk The Toft Hotel is always full of warmth and good hospitality, with its characterful bar and elegant ding room. Back by popular demand, in Jan & Feb 2015 they offer: • Curry Nights every Tuesday night. Choose from a selection of curries, all served with rice, chips, poppadoms and mango chutney, all for £9.95 • Steak Nights on Wed night; a 9oz sirloin steak, cooked to your liking and served with onion rings, chips and garden peas, only £10.95. White Hart, Ufford Main St, Ufford, PE9 3BH Tel: 01789 740250 www.whitehartufford.co.uk The White Hart is a great spot after a bracing winter walk, and is one of the most charming pubs around. Fantastic January food offers include: a burger and beer for £10, Chips for two on Wednesdays for £15.

The Crown Hotel

“The magnificently re-furbished Crown has a great new informal menu to match, which is worth trying out whether you want a three-course meal of just a light snack.”

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LUNCH FOR EVEN LESS 2015 2 Course Lunch from £12.95 3rd Course from £2.50 Eight Local Top Restaurants Team Up to offer a fine lunch at an especially low price. Offer valid Monday to Saturday, the offer is variable to each restaurant. To make your reservation, please call the restaurant of your choice and quote the ‘Lunch for Even Less’ offer. Subject to availability. The Olive Branch, Clipsham 2 courses for £15.50 (3rd course for £4.00) Offer Valid - Monday, 12th January to Saturday, 21st March Excluding Valentine’s Day 01780 410355 www.theolivebranchpub.com The cooking here is always excellent, but recent reports suggest it may even have gone up another gear. The Berkeley Arms, Wymondham 2 courses for £12.95 (3rd course for £4.00) Offer Valid - Thursday, 22nd January to Tuesday, 31st March Closed on Mondays, excluding Valentine’s Day 01572 787587 www.theberkeleyarms.co.uk Holder of a Bib Gourmand, and a fabulous ‘pubby’ ambience with great food.

Exeter Arms Jackson Stops

Hambleton Hall, Nr. Oakham 2 courses for £24.50 (3rd course for £7.00) (including 12.5% discretionary service) Offer Valid - Monday, 12th January to Friday, 27th February Excluding Valentine’s Day & Saturdays 01572 756991 www.hambletonhall.com The food is as accomplished as ever and the service as serene as ever.

The Marquess of Exeter, Lyddington 2 courses for £12.95 (3rd course for £3.00) Offer Valid - Monday, 12th January to Saturday, 28th March Excluding Valentine’s Day 01572 822477 www.marquessexeter.co.uk Brian Baker is a highly accomplished and creative chef. He thinks local – sourcing local ingredients, taking vegetables from his patch and hiring several members of his close-knit family to work with him. The Red Lion Inn, Stathern 2 courses for £13.50 (3rd course for £2.50) Offer Valid - Monday, 12th January to Saturday, 28th March Closed on Mondays, excluding Valentine’s Day 01949 860868 www.theredlioninn.co.uk A re-furb of the restaurant has made this excellent eaterie still more agreeable. Well, well worth the trip, try and get out on the scarp if you get the chance.

Hart’s, Nottingham 2 courses for £15.50 (3rd course for £4.00) (including 12.5% discretionary service) Offer Valid - Monday, 12th January to Friday, 27th February Excluding Valentine’s Day 0115 9881900 www.hartsnottingham.co.uk Try and combine lunch here with shopping or a matinee performance at the theatre. Modern surroundings, delicious food, impeccable service, all within a stone’s throw of the city centre. Langar Hall, Langar 2 courses for £16.50 (3rd course for £5.00) Offer Valid - Monday, 12th January to Saturday, 28th March Excluding Valentine’s Day 01949 860559 www.langarhall.co.uk This establishment is replete with character and the experience of visiting merits a trip in its own right. Could almost have invented the word ‘eclectic’ for this place. Lovely Georgian house setting.

The Wicked Witch, Ryhall 2 courses for £14.95 (3rd course for £3.00) Offer Valid - Tuesday, 13th January to Tuesday, 31st March Closed on Mondays, excluding Valentine’s Day 01780 763649 www.thewickedwitchexperience.co.uk Now under the management of Dameon Clarke, this establishment is definitely worth checking out. STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2015

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Valentine’s Celebrations 2015

Romantic Spa Massage… Relax together with your loved one this Valentines in our dual treatment room. Enjoy back, neck and shoulder massages, a glass of sparkling wine and chocolates. £55.00 per coupleavailable throughout February. During this special time, we are offering 25% off any further treatments you and your partner wish to have during your visit.

S A T U R D A Y 1 4 TH F E B R U A R Y

Valentine’s Dinner Romantic candle lit 4 course dinner with live music £32.50

MENU Spiced parsnip soup, apple and honeyed croutons Deep fried baby goats cheese, pickled beets, turnip and shallot slaw Seared mackerel fillet, roasted purple sprouting and fennel salad, pomegranate dressing Corn fed chicken, warm salad of Jerusalem artichoke, leek and salsify, truffle vinaigrette Pan fried red mullet, curried cauliflower puree, sagg aloo (potato and spinach) Celeriac and wild mushroom pappadelle, parmesan and parsley (V)

Bespoke and Handmade Kitchens

Iced passion fruit parfait, chillied pineapple Dark chocolate and blood orange tart, orange curd ice cream Selection of English cheeses, oat cakes, chutney Coffee and homemade chocolates Stay the night… we have a number of selected honeymoon, deluxe and superior rooms overlooking Rutland Water from *£80 per room inclusive of full English breakfast. (Subject to availability). Champagne, chocolates, roses and flowers can be arranged, prices available at the time of booking. *This offer is only applicable if attending the dinner and dance, accommodation only rates are available on request.

BOOK NOW ON

01572 757901 Barnsdale

c t Lo

Est

al Comp

1981 - 33 Years

The areas LARGEST INDEPENDENT Kitchen Showroom 30 room settings on show NEW displays now being fitted - more to follow

Please check our website for the most up-to-date promotions

Hall Hotel

The Maltings, Barnack Road, Stamford, PE9 2NA Barnsdale Hall Hotel, Nr Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8AB Tel: 01572 757 901 | www.barnsdalehotel.co.uk

T: 01780 756514 or 755855 E: sales@qksstamford.co.uk

www.qksstamford.co.uk

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L U N C H

F O R

L ESS

JANUARY

M ARCH

Enjoy homemade, local food in the stunning Orangery Restaurant overlooking the beautiful Rose Garden at Burghley House, England’s greatest Elizabethan house. One course £10.50 Two courses £14.00 Three courses £17.50 Served Wed – Sat 12pm - 2.30pm Valid 7th January until 13th March 2015 The Orangery is open Wed - Sun, 10am - 4pm for Breakfast, Lunch and Afternoon Tea T: 01780 761989 | E: orangery@burghley.co.uk | www.burghley.co.uk | Stamford PE9 3JY

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Timeless Quality

A warm welcome from Rob, Mandy & Richard JANUARY AND FEBRUARY SALES AT Chicken, bacon & mushroom pie, hand cut chips & green winter vegetables Or Grasmere sausages, champ mash & green winter vegetables Plus a glass of house red or white wine for £10.95. Add a pudding from the special winter warmer menu for just £ 3.50!

SERVED TUESDAY – FRIDAY, LUNCH AND DINNER*

We pride ourselves on supplying quality fitted furniture in a wide choice of styles and flexible options to suit you and your kitchen. Ring or visit Mark for his personal attention.

MARK FORDHAM KITCHENS The Showroom, New Road, Ryhall, Stamford PE9 4HL

01780 482892

*(excludes valentines day, booking recommended)

Eat, drink and be merry with the same great standard of food

Call and book your table on: 01780 410237

Open: Tues-Fri 10am - 5.00pm Sat 10am - 4pm www.fordhamkitchensltd.co.uk

Rookery Lane, Stretton, Rutland, LE15 7RA www.thejacksonstops.com

www.barnsdalelodge.co.uk

Wishing everyone a very Happy New Year!

Barnsdale Lodge invite you to our

Wedding Open Day on Sunday 25th January 2015 between 11am and 3pm

The open day will showcase Barnsdale Lodge Hotel, Exton Hall and Rutland’s newest and most unique wedding venue, Fort Henry, as well as featuring a number of other independent, bespoke wedding suppliers, to help you plan your special day.

Barnsdale Lodge

Entry is free, with a complimentary glass of fizz.

Exton Hall

Fort Henry

The Avenue, Oakham, Rutland LE15 8AH tel: 01572 724678 enquiries@barnsdalelodge.co.uk

We have limited dates available in 2015 for weddings at Barnsdale Lodge – anyone visiting the open day and booking a 2015 wedding within 10 days of the event, will receive 15% off their quote (excluding special offers). Have you seen our stunning retreats?

www.rutlandretreats.co.uk

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EATING OUT

Jackson Pulls Out the Stops Ross Thain, chartered surveyor and food reviewer, went back to a favourite haunt

tretton is a quirky village. The A1 has always by-passed it, with the settlement being historically set to the east of the Great Road and it is one of those villages that always seems to be by-passed on the way to Clipsham or Castle Bytham. The village is one of 17 Strettons in England, all but two are on roman roads, with our own Stretton being on Ermine Street, as the very name Stretton is derived from the Old English words stræt meaning “Roman Road” and tun meaning “settlement”. Turn off the main road and into the village and it is charming, with a delightful, motley collection of houses (The Manor House being the finest), roof styles and materials; and The Jackson Stops is no exception. Half of the roof is thatch, half pantile. A small part of the ground floor is a cosy little bar, the other (main) part restaurant. Originally, the pub was called The White Horse but (allegedly) a For Sale sign was outside for so long that it took over the name of the Agent – Jackson Stops. Back in September 2003, I wrote that this was the most cosy bar in the County and it remains so. Holing up there for an evening must be one of life’s greatest local pleasures. Nurdling is also available – go there to find out. The pub is under the new management of Rob Knowles, wife Mandy and son Richard, all of whom have been there for about four years. Rob understands that he has a “good loyal following and I now want to do new and different things but to maintain my loyal local base, doing some casual dining too”. With two courses at a “lunch for less” at £12.95 this is not expensive and should continue to maintain a high profile locally.

We tried a taster menu which was consistently good and sometimes excellent. Our saladette of goats cheese, honey roast figs and sun blushed tomatoes was the latter and a really good way to start the evening, washed down with a Chilean Sauvignon Blanc from Alto Bajo. The figs featured again later in the evening and were very good indeed. Secondly, we had one of Rob’s signature dishes, his three cheeses Crème Brulee with Manchego, Lincolnshire Poacher and Red Leicester with a torched Parmesan crust. This is very innovative, more interesting than sublime, but as a dinner

appetiser almost perfect. Our two main courses were sea bass with a pea shoot and dill risotto and tiger prawns, followed swiftly by rump of lamb, lamb sausage on a Dauphinoise mash. The lamb was tender and juicy and helped along by an Australian Deakin Estate Shiraz. Other options would have been a Burgundy Beef Pie or a lighter Chicken Caesar salad so very much something for everyone. For dessert we were offered a brown sugar banoffee Pavlova followed by a trio of chocolate with a Maury dessert wine. All three were tremendously good, especially the white chocolate panna cotta. Our adjacent table, jealous of our dessert selection, were offered a complimentary sample of the Pavlova and there was real enthusiasm in the cooking and a genuine level of pride and achievement. All very justified. Wines come from Bibendum which are a little pricey but also very good – no duff bottles on the list here and with interesting options of quarter bottles of Champagne for example there is, once again, something for every palette/budget. The food was colourful, tasty, light and offered a huge variety of flavours and Rob should do well, both for his loyal locals and wider travellers. The pub keeps a low key status, like the village itself, but delve into them a little and you won’t be disappointed with either. • Jackson Stops, Stretton Rookery Lane, Stretton, Rutland, LE5 7RA Tel: 01780 410237 www.thejacksonstops.com

The Coffee House, Castor Fiona Cumberpatch and her Mum & Dad needed warming up If you’re looking for an attractive destination to meet friends for coffee, tea, and cake or a light snack, this cosy coffee shop is worth visiting. It’s situated in the village of Ailsworth just off the A1 on the way to Peterborough, next to the village shop. My parents and I visited on a bone chillingly cold day, and were delighted to step into a warm, beautifully styled interior with a very impressive coffee machine residing on the counter. The quirky fixtures and fittings, with china tea cup lights overhead and coffee sack posters and lined cupboards, have been designed by Bev’s Craft Works and add a fun element to this small but welcoming space with friendly staff. We ordered bowls of piping hot soup (minestrone and roasted red pepper), and a toasted Panini with ham, cheese and Castor chutney. The menu consists of a number of light options, sandwiches, cheese scones, cheeseboards etc at a reasonable price. The Panini (£4.95) was a really good choice, served with a fresh side salad and crisps. We had some excellent coffees and tried the home made ginger mini loaf cakes, which tasted just as good as they looked. Mum could not resist sampling the caramel milk shake which came in a cute retro style milk bottle with a red and white striped straw. Take away is available and it’s clearly a popular village venue as customers were popping in and out all the time. The Coffee House is a satellite branch of estate agents Quentin Marks, so if you are in the market for a property, there are some enticing details displayed in the windows. A selection of gifts and cards are also on sale, making this a very pleasant place to spend time. Every village should have one! • 107a Peterborough Rd, Ailsworth, Peterborough PE5 7AJ Tel: 01733 380093 www.castorcoffee.co.uk . Open Monday – Friday 7.30am – 5pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am4pm. Check website for opening hours over the festive season, as these do vary. STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2015

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Locally renowned Chef Dameon Clarke at

Eating Out For Less

THE

GARDEN HOUSE Stamfords best kept secret

HOTEL

2 course for £14.95 (3rd course for £3.00) Offer valid Tuesday 13 January to Tuesday 31st March* *Excluding Valentine’s Day

Open Tue-Sat: Lunch 12pm – 2.30pm | Dinner 6pm – 9.30pm Sun: Lunch only 12 pm – 2.30pm Closed Mondays.

Book today 01780 763649 | Email. wickedwitch@reborn.com www.thewickedwitchexperience.co.uk

LUNCH FOR LESS

2 STARTERS £5.00 • 2 MAIN COURSES £12.00 2 DESSERTS £5.00

* 2 Main courses must be ordered for the starter and dessert promotion. 12pm-2pm and 6pm-8pm Mon-Fri and Sat lunch. ReseRvations essential - offeR ends 10th feb 2015

01780 763359

THE WICKED WITCH, BRIDGE STREET, RYHALL, PE9 4HH

High Street, St Martins, Stamford, PE9 2LP www.gardenhousehotel.com

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16/12/2014 17:44

HOME & GARDEN

Going Green Alysia Anderson finds out how to re-use and recycle in Stamford

OST-CHRISTMAS, our rubbish bins overflow with wrapping paper, cards and packaging, not to mention unwanted items replaced by a shinier version courtesy of Santa. Yet this doesn’t all have to go to landfill. There are many places in Stamford that accept items for re-use or recycling and with a bit of effort we can all go greener in the New Year.

SKDC role and resources Each household in Stamford produces around a tonne of waste each year, according to the latest DEFRA figures, and the task of disposing of it falls to South Kesteven District Council. SKDC’s website www.southkesteven.co.uk is full of useful information on what you can recycle, from furniture to electrical items and duvets (the latter make good animal bedding or can be sold as rag, since you ask). The site also provides interesting snippets such as recycling two glass bottles saves enough energy to boil water for five cups of tea. Or, the bad news, that we now use about

20 times more plastic than we did half a century ago. The good news is that it can be recycled many times. SKDC’s office on Maiden Lane in Stamford provides handy wheel guides showing what you can put into your silver bin or clear bags for a fortnightly collection; or you can check on the website. As well as falling into the correct category, items should be clean. “Just one bag of food waste can contaminate a lorry-load of materials” warns SKDC. You can see why they’re concerned. Local authorities have to comply with a range of waste and recycling legislation, much of it set by the EU. The Waste Framework Directive sets targets for member states to recycle 50% of household waste by 2020 and to introduce separate collection of at least four materials by 2015. Currently South Kesteven residents recycle just under 48 per cent. That doesn’t sound too bad but it appears we are still putting too much into our black bags that could be recycled. There’s also a host of other elements that complicate the issue, such as the need to improve our composting of biodegradables and the fact that Brussels and Westminster rules sometimes conflict.

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Local organisations that welcome re-cycled products SKDC’s website has useful links to organisations that will recycle household items, yet there are plenty of places on our doorstep to turn to first. Sue Cliffe, Volunteer Co-ordinator at the Evergreen Care Trust (www.evergreencare.org), next to Stamford Hospital, welcomes second-hand items useful to elderly people. “We accept white goods in good working order, recliner chairs, Zimmer frames, wheelchairs, furniture etc. Their reception is open every weekday but it’s best to call in advance on 01780 765900 to arrange drop-off.”

to 2cm paper border and drop them in to The Point of Health at 63 Casterton Road or email helen_branson@ hotmail.com to arrange otherwise”. Harrison & Dunn takes old batteries (not car batteries though) for recycling while Colemans accepts old printer cartridges to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support. Christine Pirrie Opticians and the Stamford Eye Clinic collect old spectacles to be sent off to Vision Aid to improve access to eye care in developing countries. I recently recycled my daughter’s bicycle at Rutland Cycles, who gave me money off a new one and took the old one to re-use the parts. I have also put items on the Rutland branch of Freecycle (www.freecycle.org) and it is astonishing how quickly things are snapped up, be it a box of hangers or an old barbecue. Over 12 million items were re-used last year. There are also ‘sell, buy or swap’ Facebook groups where you can trade items with people in your local area.

Next-door to Evergreen is Alternatives (01780 765853; www.alternativesstamford.co.uk), a pregnancy advisory service. They are happy to receive all child-related items, including prams, cots, kids’ and maternity clothes, car seats and toys. Again, call to arrange a suitable time. Stamford has almost a dozen charity shops, all of which welcome your old clothes, shoes, knick knacks, books and more, such as mobile phones or foreign currency. Managed by the Skills for Work and Living department at New College Stamford, the Penny Lane shop on St Paul’s Street is always looking for new and second-hand (or ‘pre-loved’ as they rather charmingly put it) gifts, clothing and toys in good condition. The shop is staffed by young people with learning difficulties or disabilities so it provides a double benefit to the community. Over the road, Age UK has a special bin for mobile phones and will accept various electrical items except televisions. Computers can be recycled but need to be packaged and taken to the Collect+ drop-off point in Sutherland Way. The British Heart Foundation will collect furniture and electrical items for free. Call their Corby branch on 01536 430720 or visit bhf.org.uk/collection. St Martin’s Rotary Club recycles used stamps in aid of the Leprosy Mission. Member Helen Branson says “Cut them out leaving a 1

Educating the next generation If we want to continue to improve our recycling, we need to educate the younger generation. Stamford Junior School’s rear car park has a permanent yellow bin for clothes to be re-used and this month the school is holding a special Recycling Week. Children are being encouraged to collect old clothes, shoes, stamps, spectacles, printer cartridges and Christmas cards. Last year, pupils heard a talk in assembly from Gabby Parsons of Clarks in Stamford about recycling old shoes in aid of UNICEF. This year the children hope to hear from a Woodland Trust representative (the Trust is based in Grantham) about how recycling Christmas cards will help to plant trees. Children can drop their cards into special bins at M&S which works with the Woodland Trust to plant a tree for every 1,000 cards collected, with the aim of planting 10,000 trees per year. Morrisons in Stamford also accepts cards, to be recycled this year in aid of the Salvation Army.

So what happens to our rubbish?

So what happens to the stuff that does end up in our bags and wheelie bins? Currently, black bags go to a transfer station in Grantham before heading off to the Council’s brand new incinerator near Lincoln, opened last November by Vince Cable. Via our council tax, we pay a charge of about £100 per tonne for this treatment. The contents of our silver bins or clear bags, plus our garden waste from green bins, end up at Mid-UK Recycling Ltd, Mountain Skip Hire’s material recycling facility at Caythorpe and Ancaster, owned and run by Stamford resident Chris Mountain. Chris recently welcomed Grantham schoolchildren to the site, showing them at close hand how waste can be turned into useful products. The facility is a fascinating blend of man and machine power. Infra-red optical separators automatically sort different kinds of plastics and paper while ballistic separators distinguish between 2D and 3D waste. At a series of conveyor belts, human workers quality-control the results. Elsewhere, machines reduce old sheds and building waste to wood chips for chipboard manufacturers and boilers. A plasterboard recycling plant produces a range of desiccants, industrial absorbents, curing agents and cat litter products while a huge beast of a machine mulches garden waste into valuable compost. Thus South Kesteven’s waste (plus 350,000 tonnes of other stuff) is converted into numerous different products for sale at home and abroad. Which reminds me; I must put the bin out. STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2015

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LIGHTING DESIGN SOLUTIONS

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Fantastic ranges of products & services Whatever your style needs and design requirements, Heatsource has a whole range of products to suit: • High quality stoves including brands such as: Scan (as pictured), Jotul, Chesneys, Morso, Charnwood, Clearview and many more. • Designer and traditional cast iron radiators • Handmade stone fireplaces and surrounds • Complete installation service provided by HETAS qualified engineers and builders • MCS accredited installers providing biomass & solar thermal renewable heating solutions • Superb range of spares and accessories to accommodate our customers needs Come and see us at our stunning showroom in Uppingham or call us on 01572 829953. Opening Hours: Tue-Fri 9.45am – 5pm, Sat 9.30am – 4pm

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UPDATES

New Head appointed at Stamford High School M

rs Vicky Buckman has been appointed as the new Head of Stamford High School, to start in September 2015. Mrs Buckman will take over from Mrs Powell, who is retiring from the role following a very successful period for the school. Numbers have held up despite the loss of the LEA scholars, academic standards are high and the extra-curricular life of the school is vibrant. Mrs Buckman is a graduate of Leeds University and has spent her entire teaching career in the independent sector; initially at Christ’s Hospital in Horsham, where she spent 15 years as a Housemistress, and then as Deputy Head at City of London Freemen’s School in Ashtead. In addition, Mrs Buckman has been involved in sport and the Duke of Edinburgh Award, as well as being a fully qualified SCUBA diver. She is an ISI Inspector and, in this role, has inspected schools of all types up and down the country. Outside education, Mrs Buckman is a keen gardener, swimmer and musician. Mrs Buckman said of her appointment “Stamford High School is a vibrant and friendly School; I am delighted to be taking over as Head and look forward to building on the firm foundations established by Mrs Powell. My family and I are excited about the move to Stamford and becoming part of a very special community.” Principal of the Stamford Endowed Schools, Stephen Roberts, said “We are confident that Mrs Buckman’s appointment will ensure the School continues to thrive and develop. Mrs Buckman is a passionate advocate of girls’ education and we look forward to welcoming her to the High School.”

Reducing the impact of auto-enrolment

Kerry Hilliard of Chartered Accountants Stephenson Smart explains how the use of a salary sacrifice scheme can help to mitigate the cost of pension autoenrolment

f you own and manage a business, one of the most important developments affecting your business over the next two to three years will be the implementation of pension autoenrolment. Even the smallest of businesses will

reduction in the employee’s have to enrol their employees into take home pay or to the overall a workplace pension and contribute contributions paid into the towards it. pension scheme. It’s a win-win An attractive option to mitigate for both employer and employee. the additional cost of auto-enrolment If you are considering a might be to introduce a salary salary sacrifice scheme it is sacrifice arrangement. Salary worth remembering that these sacrifice arrangements are not a new arrangements must be voluntary concept, they involve a contractual so employees must opt in and agreement between the employer their pay cannot be reduced and employee whereby the employee below the Minimum Wage. It is agrees in advance to a reduction also essential that the employee in salary in return for a non-cash Kerry Hilliard, Partner at understands the potential effect benefit. Under salary sacrifice, an Stephenson Smart of having a ‘lower’ salary, in amount equivalent to the reduced particular, in relation to statutory payments salary is paid into the pension scheme by the such as Statutory Maternity Pay. employer on the employee’s behalf in addition • For more information or advice please to the employer’s contribution. contact Stephenson Smart & Co on The advantage is that a National Insurance 01733 343275 or go to contribution saving can be created for both www.stephensonsmart.com. the employer and the employee without any

The Borderville Sports Complex is great for the grassroots T

he Borderville Sports Complex has already been hailed by the Chairman of the Football Development Centre, Ian Evley, who believes the facility will allow the club to create a sustainable footballing future thanks to the enhanced ability to develop players of all ages. Evley is charged with leading the club’s youth system, which has been operational as the Football Development Centre since the 2006/07 season and currently has 15 teams across 11 different age groups, with players ranging from the ages of seven to 18. A plan to transform grassroots facilities by creating sites similar to Borderville was central to the second instalment of FA Chairman Greg Dyke’s England Commission report recently. The Borderville complex is one of a number of similar FA-funded facilities being built across England, as Dyke begins his quest to double the amount of 3G, all-weather pitches in the country - something he sees as central to building a pathway to success for youngsters. The 3G-pitch installed at the New Hedge End is already being used by Stamford’s emerging young players, as well as the general public, and the artificial turf has recently played host to events for youngsters in the local area. The ever-growing sport of futsal is also being utilised by the club, with training and tournaments taking place in the new sports hall at Borderville. Led by Evley, Stamford’s work in player development has been recognised by the FA, who named the Daniels as an FA Charter Standard Community Club - the highest possible accreditation they could be awarded - highlighting their dedication towards nurturing young talent. STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2015

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THROUGH THE KEYHOLE

A Kitchen Dream come true Elli Dean visited a home that has recently been restored by its new owners, and discovered a kitchen that is truly the ‘star of the show’.

What was your vision for the kitchen? “We wanted a blend of modern and traditional, including an Aga, that would be sympathetic to the Victorian heritage and character of the property. And key to the design was the need for a ‘sociable’ kitchen.” Are you pleased with the result? “The result has exceeded our expectations. The kitchen has been regularly ‘road tested’ with numerous friends and we have had nothing but positive comments – mind you, that could have been the free drinks!” Who installed the kitchen for you? “Style Interiors, based in St Mary’s St. We would have no hesitation in recommending them; they worked tirelessly and with very good humour to achieve everything asked of them. Gary Thornhill (designer) and his son Matt (who fitted the kitchen) make a great team. We were so pleased with the kitchen that we had Style Kitchens subsequently design and fit our utility room, dressing room and multiple bathroom units. Subsequently, two of our friends have ordered kitchens from Style.” • Style Interiors, 39 St Mary’s St, Stamford, PE9 2DS Tel: 01780 756050 www.stylek.co.uk Photography: www.ellideanphotography.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2015

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UPDATES

Nest Estates The thriving independent property agency with a ‘fresh approach’

isiting the Nest Estates office in Scotgate is more like going round to a friend’s home than visiting a typical estate agency. You will be greeted by one of the partners, Jayne Knights and Matthew Payton, and offered a cup of tea or coffee. You then sit down in the ‘front room’ – sofas and coffee tables, not desks here – and are given plenty of time to chat about the things that matter to you property-wise, before being shown through a selection of properties on the big screen. Jayne and Matthew set up this estate agency business a year ago as a natural consequence of trying to help people sort out difficulties in the property buying process. “We wanted to offer a personal touch,” Matthew told me, “and we fully understand that one size doesn’t fit all. We have been there ourselves many times and we have experienced first-hand many of the pitfalls of buying and selling property – so we emphasise and have solutions.” What is it that makes Nest Estate different? a) What you will find is a team of professionals committed to taking the time and trouble to understand what you really want and who promise to keep you in the loop every step of the way. b) Telling it as it is – realistic valuations, tips for increasing the appeal of your property quickly and cheaply. Nest estates are realists; they

Lord Tony Hall officially opens new SES performing arts facilities F

riday 5th December marked the opening of the Stamford Endowed Schools’ new Llowarch Performing Arts Centre, and the refurbished

can’t promise that the process of buying and selling property will be plain sailing every time as there are so many variables. However, they can promise that their focus is your peace of mind and that their ability to manage the finer details means that we achieve the smoothest transaction possible. c) A fabulous selection of properties both in Stamford and the surrounding areas. d) Good networking and support services, for mortgage advice etc. • Nest Estates, 1 North Street, Stamford, PE9 2YN Tel: 01780 238110 www.nestestates.co.uk

Oswald Elliott Hall and music rooms. Lord Tony Hall, Director-General of the BBC, toured the facilities before officially declaring them open. The Old Gymnasium and Stamford School Hall have undergone a transformation into a first-rate Performing Arts hub, from which the whole of the Stamford Endowed Schools will benefit. The facilities include new studios and rehearsal spaces for Drama and recording suites for Music, as well as an impressive performance space in the Oswald Elliott Hall with brand new lighting rigs and sound equipment. The Hall has already played host to this term’s successful Foundation Lectures and music concerts, with packed-out audiences at both. As Director-General of the BBC, Lord Tony Hall has spent most of his life working in creative industries. At the opening, Lord Hall was led around a special Festival of the Arts, held by students, as choirs and ‘Grease’ rehearsals were staged around the performing arts centre for guests to enjoy. There were also performances from some of the school’s talented musicians and dramatists in the Oswald Elliott Hall, where Lord Hall addressed the school on the power of the creative arts, and the importance of the next generation and new talent within the field. Lord Hall said of the facilities, “What’s great is, they are not just for those who act, or sing, or dance, or play music here. They are also for the many hundreds - thousands, I would imagine - who will sit in the audience.” Principal of SES, Stephen Roberts, said; “These new facilities are a great addition to the Schools, and more importantly, they will be a wonderful benefit to our students, to help support and encourage the immense talent the Schools hold within the Performing Arts.” STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2015

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BUSINESS

Get your affairs ship shape With the Christmas season over and the decorations packed away, it’s time to get round to some practical decisions - getting an accountant to sort out your finances, a solicitor to sort out a legal problem that’s been bothering you for ages or a financial advisor to help you plan for the future. ACCOUNTANTS Brayshaw Morey Fraser Ross House, 24 Broad Street, Stamford, PE9 1PJ Tel: 01780 750840 www.brayshaw-morey.co.uk info@brayshaw-morey.co.uk Ross Clephane, Director, responds to the following questions: What makes you different? “After our firm’s recent Growth Accelerator program was completed, it was identified that the one unique aspect that makes Brayshaw Morey different from other Accountancy firms in Stamford is the fact that we offer a wide range of Cloud Accounting Systems through which Clients can interact with us on a day to day basis. This has proved to be very successful with over 70 Clients now using our interactive Cloud Accounting Systems.” What recent tax changes are most likely to affect individuals? “One of the most significant tax changes to affect individuals has been the introduction of the high-income child benefit charge. Although this is not a recent change, it is only now becoming evident when completing tax returns

to the 5 April 2014. It has caught a number of people unaware on the tax treatment of the child benefit. Many Clients are expressing surprise at the outcome of the calculations and how most of the child benefit needs to be repaid, depending on their levels of income over £50,000.” What do you think the biggest business issue will be in 2015? “The Business Rate review that the Government promise to undertake. Although rises will be capped at 2 per cent, the doubling of small business rate relief will be extended for another year, in my opinion this is causing many businesses to fail because of the costs of rates.” How do you think the economy will perform in 2015? “Generally positive. What we are finding very interesting locally is the number of new businesses that are starting up and Brayshaw Morey has taken on over 75 new Clients over the last year through the incorporation of new companies and again this is very encouraging compared to the previous 3-4 years.” Duncan and Toplis 14 All Saints’ Street, Stamford PE9 2PA Tel: 01780 750888 www.duntop.co.uk Duncan & Toplis was established in 1925 and

is one of the largest independent firms of chartered accountants in the region. They have an unrivalled knowledge of local business issues and wide experience across many commercial fields. They are also very efficient if you only need to use them for tax returns. The Stamford partners are Tom Hindmarch and Richard Hardy, who know the local community and its businesses very well. Michelle Feasey & Co Chartered Accountants and Chartered Tax Advisors Unit 1, West Street Business Park, Stamford, PE9 2PL Tel: 01780 751115 Michelle Feasey, Director, responds to the following questions: What makes you different? “I like people – I find what people do the most interesting part of my job, hence I take a personal and genuine interest in them and their businesses.” What recent tax changes are most likely to affect individuals? “For individuals the biggest challenge is to some extent the unknown for the coming year, with a general election coming up, which could

STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2015

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SOLICITORS Hegarty LLP Solicitors 10 Ironmonger Street, Stamford PE9 1PL Tel: 01780 752066 www.hegarty.co.uk Hegarty’s reputation is built on four decades of providing private clients and businesses with legal services in plain English against a backdrop of personal attention. Hegarty Solicitors started life in a small office in 1974; since then the business has grown organically as satisfied clients have returned and recommended Hegarty’s legal services. As demand has increased they have added to the hand picked team of staff, ensuring their knowledge, experience and client care meet the exacting standards expected by clients. Their teams of solicitors and lawyers – still headed by founder Richard Hegarty - can help and advise on everything from company law to insolvency, employment law to conveyancing, personal injury to family matters. Metcalf, Copeman & Pettefar 18 Priestgate, Peterborough PE1 1JN Tel: 01733 865880 www.mcp-law.co.uk Metcalfe Copeman & Pettefar Solicitors is a long established regional firm of solicitors with offices in King’s Lynn, Peterborough, Thetford and Wisbech. They deal with most areas of law, both private and commercial, and its lawyers pride themselves on their professional, friendly and cost-effective service. MCP Solicitors is unusual in that, in addition to a strong general practice capability, its lawyers have a number of nationally

be another coalition, which will still have to deal with the disastrous economic legacy, so it is entirely possible that there will be tax rises for middle to high earners.” What do you think the biggest business issue will be in 2015? “The implementation of the new workplace pension schemes for the smallest businesses, almost all businesses will need to have schemes in place by early 2016, and I think the majority are totally unprepared for it.” Moore Weston 69 Main Road, Collyweston. Stamford, PE9 3PQ Tel: 01780 444606 Mob: 07771 866008 www.mooreweston.com jane@mooreweston.com The business is run by Jane Jones, a Chartered Accountant and Chartered Tax Adviser. Jane prides herself on a personal service and her background of over 20 years in tax practice, training and consultancy gives her the experience to help clients with their tax issues. Her husband Colin is also a senior partner in a firm of Chartered Accountants which provides a ready source of useful technical backup when the need arises.

FINANCIAL recognised specialisms, including work in Employment Law, Commercial and Regulatory Law and Accident Litigation. Belinda Smith Solicitors Asset House, 27/28 Thorpe Wood, Peterborough PE3 6SR Tel: 01733 267414 www.bscosolicitors.co.uk Belinda Smith Solicitors specialises in all aspects of Family Law, and has an engaging, professional and approachable style. Belinda is a fully trained collaborative lawyer and will promote this preferred approach to relationship breakdown wherever possible. She is also a specialist in Pre-Nuptial Agreements. Stapleton & Son 1 Broad St, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 1PD Tel: 01780 751226 www.stapletons.com Stapletons includes amongst its number Nick Fluck, who recently held the position of President of the Law Society. In his words “In keeping with the nature of Stapletons as a general practice High Street Solicitors I cover the full span of work, from property; both commercial and residential, through wills and trusts. The enduring benefit to dealing with ‘High Street’ solicitors, such as ourselves, is that we are able to help our clients with all aspects of their needs. We get to know our clients and they can build up a trust in us.”

Because the business is based at Jane’s home near Stamford, she doesn’t have the overheads associated with running a town centre practice, “and it’s easy for clients to park when they visit!” she adds. Stephenson Smart & Co Stephenson House, 15 Church Walk, Peterborough, PE1 2TP Tel: 01733 343275 www.stephensonsmart.com Stephenson Smart was established over 100 years ago. They continue to build on their reputation for providing excellent advice and first class service to business and personal clients alike. As well as general accountancy, audit and tax skills, their partners also have individual specialist skills which enable the firm to provide clients with a first class service as and when required. In addition to traditional auditing, accounting and tax services they also provide advice on how to improve and develop your business. Whether you need an integrated business strategy, access to corporate finance or specialist tax advice they are ready to help you achieve your goals

Charles & Dean Willoughby House, 2 Broad Street, Stamford, PE9 1PB www.charlesanddean.com Tel: 01780 763836 Charles & Dean help arrange bespoke business and personal finance solutions for a wide range of clients. Why use a broker? It’s simple really whether you’re looking for a new or used car, a classic car, a motorbike, or larger pieces of kit like LCVs, HGVs, Agricultural machinery or plant machinery - Charles & Dean are not tied to just one funder, but deal with some of Europe’s largest credible banks, enabling them to source the most appropriate, competitive financial packages for every customer. As a business they understand the importance of trust and their mission has always been to forge long-term relationships with all of their customers, by providing the best service and care. In the busy world of impersonal call centres, they offer one point of contact for bespoke, impartial and objective advice to ensure their customers always get the best solution. Landmark IFA Ltd 60 St Leonard’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2HU Tel: 01780 761313 www.landmarkifa.co.uk John Kellas-Kelly, Director, writes: “In celebrating over 10 years of giving impartial financial advice to a wide spectrum of Local Living’s distribution area and beyond, we have grown to be one of the region’s largest practices. Indeed, we’ve now outgrown our offices in Stamford and Oundle and are hoping to consolidate into larger premises early in 2015. This bringing together of our resources will provide our clients with even better levels of service as we pool the wealth of financial knowledge and administrative expertise. 2015 sees tremendous changes to the retirement arena. The Chancellor’s announcements in 2014 mean that investing for one’s future via pensions becomes even more appealing as a long-term proposition and potentially a “no-brainer” for those nearing retirement. The merits of contributing to a pension plan are now very obvious and we’d make this our number one investment strategy for people to consider. The UK economy appears buoyant enough but, although physically we are an island, we cannot operate in isolation. Sadly, many areas of the world are suffering (conflict, disease or general economic depression) so the wisdom of not putting all one’s eggs in one basket continues to apply – diversify and have a happy and prosperous 2015.”

STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2015

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PEOPLE

PathtoTranquility Stamford and Oakham are brimming with interesting characters who enhance the local tapestry. Charlotte Newby discovers a new, colourful thread that has been added into our fabric

trip to the dimly-lit calm of Shangri-La on Market Street in Oakham might just expand your horizons more than you expect. Selling a range of handmade textiles and natural fabrics (pashminas, bamboo clothing and hemp and nettle bags), handmade buttons, tree-free paper, and a range of yarns and gifts, you will no doubt soon realise that everything comes from Nepal. In fact each of the products is made from the rawest, most natural materials sourced amongst high-altitude villages of the Himalayas. This includes exquisitely soft hemp and nettle rugs hand knotted into sixty to one hundred knots per inch. The shop is as unassuming as its owner Udaya Thapa who exudes a calm cheerfulness and whose stories are punctuated by bouts of infectious laughter. “I set up the shop to bring a little bit of the Himalayas to Oakham. I wanted to show people here how things are made slowly and by hand in Nepal, and to bring goods here that have had a lot of energy and love put into making them. This is also about the environment and nature and how we want to leave this planet to the next generation.” If you look hard there is also evidence of the path that brought Udaya to Oakham. His winding journey from Nepal to Surrey for officer training at Sandhurst and onto service in the Nepalese army was followed by potwashing and table-waiting his way through a business degree in New York State ahead of a period of scouring China to pioneer new textiles and fabric blends for his factory in Kathmandu. On the way, Udaya has also been a Himalayan mountain guide and has qualified as a yoga teacher. However it was his marriage to Rosie, a Cambridge graduate from Rutland whom he met on an aeroplane 20 years ago that eventually brought the family here to Oakham. Perhaps not surprisingly, this range of experiences has lead Udaya to develop a very different world-view from our local western

norm. But his refreshing confidence and natural state of contentment are perhaps more the result of the yoga and meditation, which he practices daily. The techniques that he applies were taught to him by Indian and Nepalese Gurus. Yoga, he says, is the science of the right way to live. It is a way to harmonize the body, mind and emotions. “The first part is to train the body to be healthy so that we can sit in meditation. Usually yoga will start from the training of the physical body through asanas: this is the type of yoga that is familiar in the west. Once that is achieved, we can move on to the mental and emotional levels.” Since opening the doors of Shangri-La, Udaya has become increasingly aware of the levels of stress and unhappiness that can exist in our western lives. “Life is really hard and uncertain in the Himalayan villages where I source my products, but people laugh readily and hold onto a cheerful outlook. In Nepal many people use yoga and meditation as a foundation of strength whilst also asking for help from a guru at important junctions in their lives.” With the encouragement from his customers Udaya has recently added yoga, relaxation and meditation teaching to his offer in a bid to help improve the lives of people who come in and seek his advice. When asked about his plans for the future Udaya smiles and says that he is meditating hard on what comes next but that he is sure that it will involve building his spiritual understanding of the world and helping others. With his own father who was famed for setting up Nepal’s national parks and building schools and colleges in his home district of Sindhuli in Nepal, the unfolding of an extraordinary life is probably to be expected. However as Udaya says, he is only following his path. “My father set up a scholarship scheme which sends seven students from his district to study at high school every year. I am working on raising funds for this scheme and would like to see this grow and become the biggest scholarship scheme in Nepal.” Udaya Thapa can be found at his shop, Shangri-La in Oakham where he is happy to discuss courses of yoga, relaxation and meditation with people seeking a route to better health, selfimprovement and greater happiness. Courses can be arranged in your home or other venue and you need no prior experience. • Shangri-La, 6 Market Street, Oakham LE15 6DY, 01572 720755, www.wildweaves.co.uk - (Please ask in Shangri-La for more information about the Lalit Kumari Science Scholarship Fund) STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2015

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GET ACTIVE

Fox Hunting Georgie Fenn gives her own take on fox hunting and encourages you to spectate at one of the hunts

here will always be controversy surrounding Fox Hunting; any article written is likely to provoke lots of comments, sometimes for and sometimes against. It seems those against hunting are frustrated the ban did not go into action quite as Tony Blair stated it would, just as supporters are frustrated David Cameron has not lifted the ban as he said he would. Anyhow – differences aside, the spectator side of hunting blossoms in all of its glory for most hunts at this time of year, particularly on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. What this means on a day of new resolutions and good will I will leave for you to decide - but for me it is something quite magical. The Fitzwilliam Hunt meets at The Haycock in Wansford on the 1st of January and I believe it has become a tradition for many, those who ride and for those who don’t to spectate. It seems that people from all walks of life turn out for this spectacular event. The hunt sets off after a heart-warming speech from the Master, swiftly followed by those on foot and in cars who tend to get just as involved as those on horseback. It is worth noting that the horses do not just come out of their stables gleaming after plaiting up their own mane and ordering the Jack Russell to polish their tack – a lot of work goes into the turnout of each individual out hunting from top to tail out of respect for

A final thought… the hunt and pride in what they are doing. Any hunt is in essence a big family, everyone Now, it has come to my attention over these knows each other and newcomers are last few years that a large majority of people welcomed and looked after just as well as don’t really know what hunting is. The most those who have been in the hunt forever. common remark I hear as a hunter is ‘So you One thing that remains constant throughout ride along shooting foxes?’ Not only would this generations is the respect and manners that be absolute chaos as you need a rifle to shoot encompass a day out hunting; something a fox from a distance and if you missed you lacking in today’s world. Without fail everyone would probably hit someone else, furthermore says ‘Good Morning’ to each other and ‘Good the ‘bang’ would spook the horse resulting in Night’ at the end of the day- which to some people falling off everywhere – the logistics just is confusing at 1pm but it doesn’t matter, it is don’t add up but that is honestly what most what you do. There is also the courtesy when people think. We actually do a variety of things, someone is struggling to open a gate, someone sometimes just exercise our hounds and horses will make their way through the hunt to help, together, or hunt a trail where a scent is laid and if someone topples off – once everyone has by a trail layer across the country for hounds made sure they are ok they laugh to follow, or use hounds to and then of course help you find your “flush” or move a fox into horse and get back on. This sense the open where it can be of camaraderie has become rare taken by a bird of prey such in day to day life, people often look as the Golden Eagle. All of back on it as an antique whimsical these activities are legal and time ‘Oh those were the days’ sort of permitted under the Hunting view which is so very wrong. An even Act. What is important is worse view that manners are ‘oldthat if we do kill a fox to help fashioned’ is the idea of them being landowners in managing ‘uncool’. So what I suggest is this New their fox populations, great Year’s Day, dust off your wellies and care is taken to ensure either join a hunt near you to experience a clean escape, or quick Eagle Handler this long lost treasure. demise.

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COUNTRY STROLLS

WALK DATA

Uppingham & the Welland Valley If you wanted to introduce a visiting friend to the beauty of Rutland this would be the perfect walk – the charm of Uppingham, the sweeping views across the county from the ridges, the quaintness of the villages, the glory of the Welland Valley; this walk has it all.

Distance: 6 Miles (10 kms) Height Change: 100 metres Typical time: 2.5 hours Map: Rutland Water Explorer 234 Parking: Anywhere in the centre (paying, except Sundays) Start & Finish: Uppingham Market Square Terrain: Rolling terrain, can be muddy in places Dog suitability: Moderate. Most stiles have dog gates, sheep in fields

POINTS OF INTEREST Uppingham is a great place to explore – lots of interesting buildings, art galleries, antique shops, interior design shops, a bookshop, butchers’, bakers’, the public school dating back to the 16th century and much else besides. Uppingham railway station was the terminus of a branch line from Seaton and opened in 1894 and closed in 1960. You cross the old railway line on your walk, and the factory that you see at the end is where the station used to be.

The slopes are very regular, of even gradient and slightly concave form running up from the valley floor to distinct shoulders at the edge of the High Rutland hills, on the Rutland side, and a prominent, even, very straight and linear ridge that forms a distinctive skyline on the Northamptonshire side, beyond which is Corby.

The Welland Valley at this point averages about two kilometres in width with the river running approximately down the centre. However, there is a pronounced northward extension created by a small stream running off the High Leicestershire ridge by Gypsy Hollow Lane, south of Uppingham (it runs down to the left of the path you take round the back of Lyddington). In this side valley the village of Lyddington has taken advantage of the sheltered location nestling between the Uppingham Road ridge to the west and Prestley Hill to the east. This western part of the Valley in Rutland is typical of much of the Valley to the west, having a flat bottom, created by the alluvial plain. Here, the river would have flooded more widely before levees and other engineering structures, such as railway embankments and roads, contained the floodplain to a narrower margin along the river edge.

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2 3 9

4 8

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The route 1 2 3 4 5 6

Walk East from the Market Square along High St East; cross the roundabout and continue along Glaston Rd for a couple of hundred yards, before bearing off down a lane on the right and then bear left along a footpath heading due East. At Bisbrooke, pass through the village, with the church immediately on your right, still heading due east Go through three fields, and in the third field keep almost straight (do not take the track up to the right); cross a tiny stream and then head uphill, crossing the disused railway line Head south across a field (best to keep to the left hand side of the field), all the way into Seaton village Take a right on reaching the village, then a left after a few hundred yards down Seaton Lane past Seaton Grange; then follow the path towards Lyddington, with the wooded Prestley Hill immediately to your left Before crossing the stream at the outskirts of the village, turn right along the back of the village houses (you may of course, want to visit the village, with its two pubs and Bede House, in which case re-join the route at the other end of the village street). Head north on the path behind the village When you reach the road, cross over and follow the path up the hill just on your right; this then crosses another road and reaches the playing fields directly behind Uppingham Community College It is hard to spot the continuation of the path from here, but it’s basically the other side of the football pitch; and as you get close you will see a yellow marker; head down the hill, and you will soon be rewarded with a lovely view of Uppingham on the hill across the valley On reaching a road track, head left and then in twenty yards or so turn right, making the final approach to Uppingham; on reaching the road, climb up some steps, turn left in to the churchyard and cut through immediately to the east of the church through the courtyard; this will bring you back out onto the market square. Wow, what a great walk!

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PIT STOPS Beans, 3 High St E, LE15 9PY Tel: 01572 823953 Hot drinks & light snacks Don Paddy’s, 8 Market Pl, LE15 9QH Tel: 01572 822255 Drinks and good lunch grub Lake Isle 16 High St E, LE15 9PZ Tel: 01572 822951 If you would like a more substantial meal Baines 3-5 High St, West, LE15 9QB Tel: 01572 823317 Situated in an early 17th century building, run by the Baines Family since 1867, producing bread and cakes on the premises, serving tea and hot drinks STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2015

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DIARY DATES

What’s On Amander Meade selects some of the best entertainment in the region this month Throughout January (and beyond) EVENTS: Outdoor Opportunities at Rutland Water Venture back into the outdoors and join in a series of courses and events run by the conservation experts at Rutland Water Nature Reserve. Hedge Laying for Beginners is a weekend course where expert, John Shone will show you the secrets of this ancient art. This month a large variety of wildfowl are expected to arrive on the reserve – take a look at them as part of a guided walk beginning at Egleton and accompanied by an expert. If you choose to take part in an organised Badger Watch, keep an eye out for owls, foxes, bats or muntjac deer that are frequently spotted as well as the badgers. Events cost from £10 per head with booking essential. To book and for further information on all activities on the Reserve, Tel: 01572 653024 or visit www.rutlandwater.org.uk

Tuesday 6 January and Tuesday 3 February, 10.30 to 4pm COURSE: Hand Spinning Workshops Beginners and improvers can join super spinner Pam Austin and learn to spin their own yarn on a spinning wheel or drop spindle. This brand new course will include making 2-and 3-ply yarn for knitting plus fancy bouclé, gimp and art yarn, using Blue-faced Leicester wool, silk and alpaca fibre. All equipment is provided and you can even borrow a spinning wheel to take home if you book more than one workshop at a time. Price £71 per day, including lunch and Garden entry. Barnsdale Gardens Other courses this month include Patch Working, Rag Rugging, Wood Carving and Watercolour Painting. All courses, walks and talks need to be booked in advance on Tel: 01572 813200 or visit www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk

Thursday, 8th January 2015 EVENT: Celebrity Talk Bourne Motor Racing Club welcome consumer motoring expert Quentin Willson as their special guest speaker this month. Quentin is a regular face on BBC Breakfast and ITV Daybreak, appears on scores of TV and radio shows and was the original host of Top Gear. Committee member Richard Bostock said: “We’re really excited to have Quentin as our guest speaker; this year marks twenty years of Bourne Motor Racing Club and so having such a well-known figurehead of motoring come to talk will be a great way to start our anniversary year. During the evening, Quentin will look back over his broad and varied career, as well as addressing topical motoring matters, and there will be plenty of opportunities to ask questions.” Bourne Corn Exchange. Tickets are £10 at www.bournemotorclub.co.uk Saturday 10 to Thursday 22 January EXHIBITION: Stamford Foundation Diploma in Art & Design Art students from New College will show their work across mixed media – a chance to discover the stars of tomorrow. Stamford Arts Centre Admission is free.

Saturday 10 January, 7.30pm TRIBUTE CONCERT: Limehouse Lizzy Renowned for an action-packed pyrotechnic-fuelled explosion of a show, Limehouse Lizzy continue to keep the memory of Phil Lynott and his band, Thin Lizzy alive. One of the most highly rated tribute acts on the circuit. Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre Tickets £16 Tel: 01780 766455 or www.stamford-corn-exchange.co.uk

Looking forward to…..Annual Good And New Clothes Sale 2015 In support of Rutland based charity, ‘For Rutland, In Rutland’, the hugely popular and much anticipated annual quality clothing and accessories sale will be once again opening its doors to the public on Friday 27 and Saturday 28 February at Barnsdale Lodge Hotel near Oakham. The

sale begins with a ticketed event priced £15 and to include a glass of champagne and canapés. Saturday’s half-price sale event runs between 8.30am and 1pm with £5 admission payable at the door. Shoppers can expect over seventy rails of high quality nearly new or never worn clothing and accessories including designer wear, children’s wear, men’s clothing, accessories and much more. Unsold items are donated to Macmillan Cancer Support. Tickets and further information from Trish Ruddle Tel: 01572 724400. STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2015

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OUT & ABOUT

A night at the

OPERA

BACK STORY In 2006 the Metropolitan Opera House in New York – the jewel of Manhattan’s Upper West Side (see picture) – began high definition satellite transmissions of a few of its operas to a handful of theatres. Among the handful were seven cinemas in Britain and one in Norway. The Met chose to broadcast these operas live, so what we saw in our British cinema was actually happening in New York at that very moment (actually 0.02 of a second earlier, the speed of light being what it is). The decision to broadcast live was courageous, doing without a day or even an hour’s safety margin to sort out any technical glitches. But knowing that you’re watching the performance live does bring a thrilling sense of immediacy. By broadcasting the Saturday afternoon matinee – starting at 1pm – the Met could reach live audiences throughout the Americas and Europe (and also New Zealand – providing they were up for a 7am breakfast on Sunday). Audiences in the “wrong” time-zones were able to see recordings of the live performances – termed “Encores” by the Met – at more convenient times. It was a huge success. By the 2013/14 season the Met was transmitting its operas (Live or Encore) to 2000 cinemas in 66 countries, reaching 2.6 million viewers. 193 of the cinemas are in Britain; Stamford Arts Centre started its subscription to Met HD Live in April 2012. Each year the Met performs 28 different operas

in repertory – a mind-boggling total of 209 performances during the season that runs from September through May. Of the 28 operas, ten are transmitted live – so if you want to see the other 18 you’ll need a trip to New York. The National Theatre followed in the Met’s footsteps and began HD Live transmissions in 2009, followed in 2013 by the Royal Shakespeare Company. The Stamford Arts Centre subscribes to all three – this season it is screening the ten operas from the Met, three plays from the RSC and seven plays from the NT.

BUSINESS IN STAMFORD. HD transmissions of theatre and opera are very popular in Stamford. Most are Live, but some are Encores, either because popular demand requires two showings, or because the Live schedule clashes with another use of the Arts Centre cinema space. The scramble for seats starts as soon as the quarterly Live Events and Cinema brochures come through our mailboxes. It’s pleasing to learn that Arts Centre occupancy (95%) exceeded the Met occupancy (79%) during the 2013/14 season. The Arts Centre and the Met must agree the price of an opera ticket and the resulting sales revenue is split between the cinema and the Met. It has to be this way because if the Met’s “take” was in the form of a flat fee, with the ticket price set by the cinema, many smaller venues would be unable to afford the fee.

Richard Barry learns about High Definition broadcasting to Stamford

Averaged across all of its 2000 cinemas, the Met charges $23 per seat. In Britain the price is somewhat above average at £20, presumably because we are among the richer countries. There is a similar arrangement for the RSC and NT who set the ticket price at £14. Given that tickets at the NT and Met cost upwards of £40 and $100 respectively, these satellite screenings are a considerable bargain. WHO ATTENDS? If it occurs at all, the transition in taste from Heavy Metal to Opera takes about thirty years, so as you would expect, grey heads predominate at the Met transmissions. NT and RSC audiences seem to be a bit more diverse – but that said, organising four hours of childcare is no small task for younger people who wish to attend. Eavesdropping on the conversations of the audience as they depart from a Met transmission makes one realise that there are a lot of very knowledgeable opera buffs in Stamford. Did you know that Rossini used the same score for Cinderella as he did for the Barber of Seville? Nor me, until I overheard the woman sitting behind me. The Met carried out a detailed survey of its own audience and discovered that infrequent or first-time attendees preferred lower-brow operas (La Boheme for instance) to higher-brow, more challenging ones such as Peter Grimes. Happily there’s no sign of a similar distinction in Stamford.

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STAMFORD PEOPLE

Stamford Welland End of Term Report By Harjit Gammon

ork continues apace at Stamford Welland Academy to provide ‘an excellent education for all’ Stamford secondary school pupils, present and prospective, with the appointment of a new head teacher and new chair of governors. The appointments complete the key personnel triumvirate, alongside Principal Anthony Partington, who will lead and drive the school forward to realise the vision of the Stamford Free School proposer group by Cambridge Meridian Academies Trust (CMAT), assisted by Louise Warren, Transition Manager. Following a strategic restructuring of the teaching staff and planned re-organisation of the curriculum to make it fit for purpose these appointments will help put the vision of CMAT and Stamford Welland Academy to work by creating a new approach to secondary education in Stamford. The new appointees, Chris Beckett, Head teacher and Roger Moore, Chair of Governors are well qualified and, versed in local concerns to ensure the needs of Stamford pupils and their parents are met by the new school. The team were keen to share progress to date; including the organisation of the whole school into three inter-competitive houses - Austen, Da Vinci and Newton - or schools within a school. “Everyone from the receptionist to teachers and governors are allocated to a house, each headed up by its own principal and vice principal, so as to introduce a competitive element, foster pride and ensure every child is known,” says Partington. The house office is in turn the main point of contact with and for parents. The Houses are physical units within the school, each identifiable by its own colour corridors. Key senior members of staff are also sited there, so as to be visibly integrated in the midst of the House. The re-written timetable will go live in January; with more English and Maths lessons, smaller classes and more support in Year 7 to boost those students in need so that they can fully access their secondary education. Greater emphasis will also be placed on a Values based education which encourages pupils to fulfil Pledges and in so doing to develop leadership qualities and community involvement. Opportunities for developing extra-curricular interests and sport is available in the form of a new Session 6; “CMAT schools don’t end at 3”, says Partington. Apparently pupils (and one or two staff) have already enthusiastically embraced Latin, Mandarin, rowing, horse riding and golf in these sessions. In addition, to these key changes there has been an array of cosmetic modifications. Firstly to the school premises; to make it, “a nice, comfortable community”, Partington tells me. These include moving the playground to a leafier, open area, re-painting of the school hall (painting and carpeting of the rest of the school

Pic (L to R): Anthony Partington, Louise Warren, Roger Moore

ROGER MOORE: CHAIR OF GOVERNORS Former Head Teacher of St. Gilbert’s Primary School, Stamford and former Chair of Governors of Bourne Academy; where he guided the Academy through two successful Ofsted inspections, Mr Moore is a National Leader of Governance, the first in Lincolnshire. Mr Moore has close ties with the Academy and its journey; as part of the original Proposer Group for Stamford Free School, a group consisting of parents and residents who wanted a better education for young people in Stamford, he has had ample opportunity to study the needs of the area’s residents. CHRIS BECKETT: HEADMASTER Mr Beckett is most well-known locally for his leadership work at The Deepings School during which the school became rated as Outstanding by Ofsted, and year-on-year improvements in academic performance were achieved. Mr Beckett joins the new leadership team to help drive improvements and instill high expectations and standards across the academy. LOUISE WARREN: TRANSITION MANAGER Mrs Warren, one of the original Free School proposers and Stamford resident for more than 10 years, will become the academy’s transition programme manager, working closely with Cambridge Meridian Academies Trust leaders to embed the free-school vision that was presented to the Stamford community and the Department for Education. This will include the introduction of CMAT’s successful House system with vertical tutoring; the Pledges awards system - an award-based programme that promotes and encourages students to take on extra responsibility and do more for their community; and the introduction of the new curriculum. currently underway) and creation of a new central courtyard for use by students in place of under-utilised bicycle racks. The ambition is to create an environment which is cognisant of the needs of the people in school and which pays attention to detail. Work is also underway on the uniform. All pupils have been given a new tie and badge and a newly re-imagined uniform will be in place for

September and the start of a new school year. Asked to summarise Stamford Welland’s end of term report, Anthony Partington concluded; “Hit the ground running. Made great strides. Secured the future of the School. Still a lot to do. Indication that school numbers specifying Stamford Welland as first choice up 100%. Overall a good start”.

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