Stamford Living June 2015 by Best Local Living

Loving where we live!

STAMFORD LIVING www.stamfordliving.co.uk Featuring:

@LocalLivingUK

Father’s Day Gifts Health & Beauty Kids Activities Local History More Tea Vicar! Local News

Fine Foods and Fashion! Gardens to Visit Art at Burghley Outdoor Fun Eating Out Competition Winners Al Fresco Dining Wood Carving JUNE 2015 £1.50 06

9 771478 377017

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2387 ORC-Full Page Full Service Stamford Living Advert_ORC-Full Page Full Service Stamford Living Advert 20/02/2015 12:25 Page 1

Visit one of our showrooms to see moreâ&#x20AC;Ś Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms

Windows, Doors & Conservatories

Showroom Opening Times

01780 481 850 orchardkitchens@live.co.uk www.orchardstamford.co.uk

01780 753 343 orchardwindows@live.co.uk www.orchardwindows.co.uk

Mon-Fri: 9am - 5pm Saturday: Windows 9am - 1pm Kitchens 9am - 3pm

22-23 Scotgate, Stamford, PE9 2YQ 2

1 Meadow View, Uffington Road Stamford, PE9 2EX

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STAMFORD LIVING

June Contents www.stamfordliving.co.uk

@LocalLivingUK

UPDATES, SHOPPING

5 Shopping: Father’s Day Gift Ideas 21 Updates: Country Traditionals First

Could your child be the ‘Face of Stamford’ 2015? D

UE to popular demand Lyndsay from Shutterbox Photography has added some additional sittings in June for the Face of Stamford competition. The 15 minute Sittings will take place at Shutterbox Photography Studio. It is only £5 to enter and you will receive a 7”x5” print of your entry photo. £1 from each sitting will be donated to the nominated charity ‘Anna’s Hope’. • Age categories are: up to 12 months, 1-3yr, 4-6yr, 7-11yr. • The following 10 local independent businesses are sponsoring a variety of prizes totalling a value of over £1,500 - Sacrewell Farm, Stamford Arts Centre, The Yard, Sukies Party Emporium, Paint a Pot with Tooty, Flowers by Mandy, Belle Vintage, Stamford Cupcake Company and Shutterbox Photography. • Please take part by voting at Stamford Arts Centre any time between 29th June & 4th July. • The top 5 children with the most votes in each category will then be presented to the prize givers who will have the final overall vote. Look out for the results, which will be announced in the August edition of Stamford Living. • For more info or to pre-book your sitting, email Lyndsay at: face@ shutterboxphotography.co.uk or call her on 07580 388880.

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

Anniversary, The Great Little Cleaning Company, Maples of Stamford, Helping with Fertility 31 Updates: Support that’s set in stone, Traditional Restoration, Gillian Durno, Pet’s Paradise 36 Updates: Bluebird Care, Priest’s House Exhibition, Artists’ Market in Stamford, Summer Jazz in the Orchard, Bugtopia opens its doors! 43 Updates: Stamford Arts Festival, Rutland County Show, Stamford Choral Summer Concert, Battle of the Proms

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

8 Fashion: Fun and frolics in Fine Foods 12 Health & Beauty: Beach-ready packages

HOME, GARDEN, MOTORING, TRAVEL

40 Property: Robert Goodwin 44 National Gardens Scheme: Local Gardens Open this summer

39 Quirky Stamford: Doggy poops

FOOD & DRINK 33 55 59 62

Food & Drink: ‘More tea, vicar?’ Eating Out: The Marquess of Exeter Eating Out: The Crown Hotel, Stamford Eating Out: Al Fresco Dining this summer

ACTIVITIES, CULTURE, LEARNING & BUSINESS

16 Child-friendly Stamford: What’s On 17 Child-friendly Stamford: Children with additional needs Music: Peterborough Sings! Christchurch Community Car Scheme Burghley Sculpture Park 2015 Exhibition Outdoor Activities for this summer Winner of the Stamford Civic Society Writing Competition 65 What’s On

24 39 49 52 57 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: Fine Foods Store Fashion Shoot. Photography by Elli Dean

PEOPLE & PLACES 28 47 59 78

Ask Leo Special: History of the Co-op Helping to restore Fotheringhay Church First Hand: The Nepal Earthquake Stamford People: Wood-carver Glyn Mould

Every love story is beautiful, but yours is our favourite. STAMFORD LIVING JUNE 2015

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SHOPPING

Father’s Day Gifts for Dads Father’s Day is Sunday June 21st this year. Elli Dean goes in search of gifts to make sure that Dad feels suitably loved and appreciated

Love It: Batman heat changing mug, £8.99

Robert Loomes: Limited Edition Handmade Red Robin watch, £ £17,800

Energy: BellField shorts (belt included!), £30

Robinsons: Mele & Co organiser, £39.95. No. 1 Dad cufflinks sold separately £17.95.

Coneys: Ralph Lauren shirt, £95

A pair of sterling silver, hand painted cufflinks, by Dawson of Stamford, showing scenes of London. £425 per pair.

23 7: Peckham Rye scarf, £50

Anand Shoes: A big selection of cool socks, £6

Snow Designs: A selection of books for men, £19.95 £12.99 STAMFORD LIVING JUNE 2015

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Timeless Quality

We pride ourselves on supplying quality fitted furniture in a wide choice of styles and flexible options to suit you and your kitchen. Call or visit our showroom today

MARK FORDHAM KITCHENS

Beautiful Interiors

27 Mill Street Oakham Rutland LE15 6EA showroom@elizabethstanhope.co.uk www.elizabethstanhope.co.uk 01572 722 345

The Showroom, New Road, Ryhall, Stamford PE9 4HL

01780 482892

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

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FASHION INSIDER

Fun at the Fine Food Store T

HE Fine Food Store team is honoured to be asked by Stamford Living to partake in this Fashion shoot. It gave us the chance to work with some of our favorite independent retailers. We are so very fortunate to have so many entrepreneurial, retailers in this town. I do believe that it forms a major part of Stamfordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s core identity. This shoot offered us all the chance to try something new for the summer. It was four years ago since we wore our maxi dresses in SL - how things have changed! We all really enjoyed it; Thomas was less enthralled by the overall experience until the cake came out! Over the past year, following the birth of Thomas, I can be seen less behind the counter. I have been concentrating on other projects that I hope will ensure The Fine Food Store continues to grow. Outside catering for parties and events has become increasingly popular. The tapas menu has become popular in our pop-up restaurants and is now being offered for Weddings throughout the year. Hannah and the rest of the kitchen team are great at coming up with new menu ideas and I love working with clients to ensure that their events run smoothly with everyone having a great time along with the rest of the team upstairs creating a friendly family cafĂŠ. We hope that the garden continues to be popular this year. The old barns at the back are being renovated and we are excited to see new life going back into this very special part of Stamford.

Words by Jenny Fitzpatrick, styled by Sally Stillingfleet, photography by Elli Dean

Waitresses from left Lucy, Ellie, Ewelina and Jovita

Ewelina and Jovita

Ellie

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Jenny and Pete with Thomas

Chef Hannah

e Group from left: Lucy, Hannah, Luke, Ellie, Jenny, Pete, Thomas, Jovita, Ewelina

Clothes: - Lucy wears Maison Scotch dress £105 Energy. Hannah wears Noa Noa print dress £120 with linen Esprit jacket £70 Attic. Luke wears D Strezzed white shirt £89 and blazer £109, 522 Levis jeans £90 Sebago deck shoes £110. Ellie wears Mink Pink playsuit £52 all from Energy. Jenny wears Alpha blue dress £135, with American Vintage jacket £135 both Attic. Pete wears Bellfield T Shirt £20, with Catch 22 Maison Scotch jeans £125 Energy. All Thomas’s clothes from Joules. Jovita wears Eprit maxi dress with YaYa jacket biker jacket £85. Ewelina wears Diane von Furstenberg silk hankerchief dress £90 Arch, Esprit denim jacket £60 Attic. Marcia May Shoes kindly supplied all other shoes. CONTACTS Arch Label Agency – 43 St Peter’s Street, Stamford. Tel. 01780 764746 Attic – 33 St. Mary’s St. Stamford Tel. 01780 766667 Energy – Ironmonger St. Stamford. Tel. 01780 765633 Marcia May Shoes – 41 St. Mary’s St. Tel. 01780 766608 Thanks to Christine Brown (Stella & Dot jewellery) for providing the jewellery Mob: - 07833 343512 Christine_brown1@btconnect.com www.stelladot.co.uk/christinebrown Oliver Lee for kindly doing all models hair. Tel. 01780 754828 www.oliverleestamford.co.uk Assisted by Mel Brown and Ellie Stillingfleet Photography by Elli Dean STAMFORD LIVING JUNE 2015

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Room to Live Quality bespoke Orangeries & Garden Rooms designed to your specification

Tel: 01780 756666 www.qks-ltd.co.uk

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Est

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1981 - 34 Years

Showroom: Cherryholt Road, Stamford, PE9 2EQ

Opening hours: Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm Sat 10am - 3pm

Bespoke and Handmade Kitchens

• Over 30 room settings on display including the latest finishes • Contemporary, modern, traditional & handmade bespoke kitchens • Special discounts and unrivalled service

The areas Largest Independent Kitchen Showroom The Maltings, Barnack Road, Stamford, PE9 2NA T: 01780 756514 or 755855 E: sales@qksstamford.co.uk www.qksstamford.co.uk 10

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m u s r o f t e s t e G HEALTH & BEAUTY

Genevieve Potter has some sound advice and brilliant local offers to help you look your best at home or abroad

Protect and nourish your skin Vitamin C can be your skin’s best friend at this time of year, as it’s known to brighten, even skin tone and help prevent the formation of hyperpigmentation (age spots). Medik8 Vitamin C tetra antioxidant serums are available from Renaissance in three strengths; and they are recommended for use before the Hydr8 360 SPF30 anti-ageing daily moisturiser. New research now suggests that the fullest protection from photo-ageing (the effects of the sun) can only be achieved through additional use of antioxidants on top of ultra violet (UV) protection – so both of these products will give optimum protection. CTetra serum starts from £36 and Hydr8 360 costs £52.

T’S the time of year when we can suddenly shed many layers of winter clothing – and many of us will feel a slight sense of panic at having to bare arms, legs and feet for the first time in months. But there’s no need to be phased if you put in a bit of time and effort right now.

Be sun smart Kirsten from Body Matters sees many of her clients who avoid sunscreen, because of the prospect of thick, oily creams under make up. But Dermalogica have some smart sun products for the face and body which feel beautifully light and won’t interfere with your make up. Kirsten can provide samples of these products and there are also goody giveaways with the purchase of two products during June, when one is a “sun smart” product (subject to availability).

Skin can become seriously dehydrated over summer and the certified organic Pinks Boutique range at Emma Cannings is brilliant for putting essential moisture back in to the skin. The hydrating deep cleanse melt smells heavenly and as the name suggests, it literally melts in to skin, before being removed with a muslin cloth. It delivers a really deep cleanse but at the same time nourishes and leaves skin feeling super smooth, plumped and hydrated. When you spend over £40 on any Pinks Boutique products during the month of June 2015 at Emma Cannings, you’ll receive a free deep cleanse melt to try for yourself. Please mention Stamford Living at the time of purchase.

Lose those last few stubborn inches Equilibrium offer LIPOFIRM PLUS, which is the new, credible alternative to liposuction, promising inch-loss, body contouring and tightening all in one treatment. It can be performed on abdomen, arms, thighs, the chest area for men, buttocks, love handles, knees, and even the chin and jawline area. You’ll notice a difference after one treatment, although a course of treatments is usually recommended. If you want to find out more, please just contact the Equilibrium team for a free consultation. You can also take advantage of a Stamford Living reader offer - book in for a one-off trial session of LIPOFIRM PLUS Ultrasound Cavitation and Radio Frequency (60mins) which is usually £100 and receive it for just £75. This offer is valid until 30th June 2015 and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. There are very limited places available, so please book as early as possible to avoid disappointment and quote Stamford Living at the time of booking. Asembo recommend a course of ESPA lift and firm hip and thigh treatments, to tone, stimulate and firm what can often be a problem area. Results vary by individual but around six treatments will achieve noticeably smoother, firmer beach-ready skin. One treatment every seven to ten days is recommended (£45 per treatment) and if readers mention Stamford Living at the time of booking, they will receive six treatments for the price of five.

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Get your body prepped for a summer glow

It’s a great idea to incorporate daily buffing or dry brushing in to your pre-summer beauty routine. An easy way to do this is to invest in cloth like the Dermalogica ultimate buffing cloth from Body Matters. It’s long enough to reach your back (and other hard to get to areas) and you can machine wash

it. After a few weeks of buffing, followed by moisturising the body, skin will start to look noticeably smoother. Body Matters are offering 15% off the Dermalogica ultimate buffing cloth when you mention this feature at the time of purchase. Backs can be a seriously neglected area

Pick and mix for a fast summer boost Natalie Dams beauty and Oliver Lee have teamed up to offer Stamford Living readers some special summer treats for the month of June 2015. Please mention Stamford Living at the time of booking – and please note that all offers are subject to availability. ‘New talent’ A blow dry with Chloe, plus an eye lash tint and manicure with Abby for just £20 ‘Get ready for summer’ Gel file and paint for hands and feet, HD brows for perfectly groomed and defined brows and LVL lashes to thicken, lengthen and curl lashes (go without mascara for summer) £110 (normally £124) ‘Girls’ night out’ Eye brow tint and eye brow wax, eye lash tint, plus gel file and paint for hands and feet - £60 (normally £70) ‘5 for 50’ For swishy summer hair, take advantage of five blow dries at the Oliver Lee salon for just £50

The Beauty Manor opens in Stamford The Beauty Manor is an award-winning salon based in Market Harborough, with a loyal client base from across Leicestershire, and from 21st May, it will also open in Stamford, above Browns, at 3 Red Lion Square. Treatments will include a new HD (high definition) studio for precision brows and expert make-up application, Decléor and Guinot face and Decléor body treatments, Nouveau and LVL lashes and Jessica nails, as well as expert waxing and threading. With a highly experienced team, free skin consultations will be provided, with the aim of providing each client with a truly personalised skin care and treatment plan. • For bookings please call 0844 999 3365 www.thebeautymanor.co.uk

and for an intensive fix, Pinks Boutique at Emma Cannings have a bespoke, 45 minute ‘back and beyond’ (£35) treatment; which comprises a full back exfoliation followed by luxurious hot towels, finished with a powerful back massage to ease away tension.

ADDRESS BOOK Asembo 20 St Leonard’s Street, Stamford PE9 2HN Tel: 01780 765337 www.asembo.co.uk Body Matters Brownlow Street, Stamford, PE9 2EL Tel: 01780 270002 www.bodymattersstamford.co.uk Emma Cannings Stamford Garden Centre, Great Casterton, Stamford PE9 4BB Tel: 01780 766583 www.emmacannings.co.uk Equilibrium 7 St Paul’s Street, Stamford PE9 2BE Tel: 01780 757579 www.equilibriumstamford.co.uk Natalie Dams Beauty Oliver Lee Salon 11 St John Street Stamford PE9 2DB Tel: 01780 754828 www.oliverleestamford.co.uk Renaissance 2 Mallory Lane, Stamford, PE9 2FW Tel: 01780 763768 www.renaissancebeauty.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING JUNE 2015

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“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 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

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

Health & Beauty Therapy 2 MALLORY LANE, STAMFORD TEL. 01780 763768

All aspects of beauty therapy available Specialists in IPL hair removal, electrolysis, microdermabrasion, Hi-tech facial treatments & cosmeceuticals.

Johan Truter

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

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Practitioner

Eliminate thread veins

www.renaissancebeauty.co.uk

Dr Alexandra Dent

Mbl: 07986 585270 www.alexandradent.co.uk

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

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High quality professional hairdressing supplies We stock all major brands including: • Wella Professional • L’Oreal Professional • Schwarzkopf Professional • Revlon Professional • Salonsystems • Wahl • Babyliss

• Eti • Corioliss • Ibd • Gigi Waxes • Hive of Beauty • Procare Foils and Meches

to name a few…..

SPECIAL OFFER:

Faye - senior stylist Back from maternity leave and now at Elan from June To welcome back old and new clients: £60 for a full head of highlights and a cut and blow dry

Vat free on your purchase with this coupon. Only to be redeemed once. New customers please bring proof of qualification. This offer can not be used in conjunction with any other offer. Newgate Gallery, Elm Street, Stamford, Lincs. PE9 1QF t: 01780 763983 m: 07540 738848 e: adrian@bettersalonsupplies.co.uk w: www.bettersalonsupplies.co.uk

Is it time to re-discover your hearing?

Special offer only valid for June & July 2015 Faye will be working: Thursday 12-7.30pm; Friday 9am - 4.30pm and every other Saturday 9am - 4.00pm

1A Silver Lane, Stamford, Lincs, PE9 2BT

tel: 01780 767700

Missing the odd word during the conversation? Having to turn the TV up? If these situations sound familiar you may benefit from a free hearing assessment. Healthy Hearing are your local hearing experts. With many years of experience we are dedicated to providing a comprehensive hearing healthcare service and finding the best solutions for your needs. Call us for: • Free expert hearing advice • Free lifestyle hearing assessments • Free trials of the latest digital hearing aid technology • Home visits available

Call us today for your FREE hearing assessment

01780 759133 Stamford Hearing Centre, No 1 The Old Police House, Cliff Road, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 1AB

With our help your hearing can only get better. 15

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ACTIVITIES

Child Friendly S Antonia Scott finds out what activities are going on locally to keep your little ones happy STAMFORD ARTS CENTRE

Why not join the new Stamford Youth Choir for 11 years and over - led by Fergus Black? Explore a range of choral music in parts: musical theatre, gospel, classic pop songs, classical and world music. A free trial ‘Taster Session’ is being held on Friday 29th May from 10am 11.30am and then every Thursday at 6pm from 4 June – 2nd July. £3/session.

STAMFORD CORN EXCHANGE THEATRE Broad Street, Stamford. Tel: 01780 766455 For some family theatre fun, book tickets for ‘The Wizard of Oz’ – performances from Wednesday 10th June - Sunday 14th June, and ‘Bugsy Malone’ from Thursday 2nd July Saturday 4th July.

STAMFORD SKATES COOL

Roller Skating is a fantastic way for children to keep fit and have fun. In Stamford, there is a distinct lack of outdoor surfaces that are smooth and flat enough to learn on, but at Borderville Sports Centre, between 12-1pm every Saturday, Stamford Skatescool operates indoor Roller Skating lessons for children from age 5 upwards. The huge Sports Hall provides a safe environment for the children to learn, under expert tuition. Classes are taught by Tara Day who is a Personal Trainer and an ex-Roller Speed Skater, with 35 years of experience on eight wheels. Every child needs to have their own set of skates, plus safety equipment such as elbow pads, knee pads and wrist guards, so that when the inevitable falls happen, there are no cut elbows and knees. A cycle helmet is also required to protect little heads in the event of a crash! Beginners are taught the basics of the correct skating stance, how to start, stop, glide, turn, weave, knee slide and correct falling technique. The more advanced skaters are taught extra skills such as track work, speed work, cross-overs, 180 degree slides, 360 slides, skating backwards, turn stops and other fun tricks! • Lessons cost £8 per week on an ad hoc basis, or £6 per week when booked in advance by the term. For more information, contact Tara Day: 07749473586 or visit ‘Stamford Skatescool’ on Facebook.

PURPLEPUMKIN CAKES – 2 YEARS OLD!

It’s nearly 2 years since Sarah Cooper-Smith took the plunge and set up her dream company - Purlepumpkin Cakes which she runs from her home in Ryhall, with her four children, her husband Tony, and their faithful dog Basil! Having been making cakes all her life, a passion she inherited from her mum, Sarah decided to make her passion her livelihood and now says she gets to do what she loves, “make people smile and also enjoy my family life. I love what I do, and my feedback hopefully proves that other people love what I do too. I find it an honour when people decide to choose me to bake a celebratory cake for their special day.”

LOVE STAMFORD

The Love Stamford Centre on Broad Street have selected The Phoebe Research Fund as their chosen charity for 2015 which supports funding for a rare genetic skin disease – ‘Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa’ (EB) which local Copthill pupil, Phoebe Crowson suffers from. Love Stamford has created a giant butterfly mural as EB sufferers’ skin can be as thin as a Butterfly’s wings. BGS Photography has teamed up with Love Stamford to offer children the opportunity to have their photo taken to place on the butterfly mural with a message. Children are encouraged to dress up as their favourite superhero, princess, pirate or just to pull a funny face to support the charity. Photos are £5/child (all proceeds go to the charity) and the finished mural will ‘fly’ to the Charity Dinner being held at The William Cecil in September. Photo shoots will take place on 27th June, 11th July, 28th July, 1st August and 11th August. To book a place, visit Love Stamford.

MUSIC

Music for Little People provides baby, toddler and preschool music classes in Peterborough and Rutland. All classes aid child learning and development with colourful props, puppets and sensory activities. Developed by Karen Dickinson, a specialist in early childhood music education, she aims to ignite children’s curiosity and enthusiasm for learning and build their capacity to learn, form relationships and thrive. To find a class in your area – www. musicforlittlepeople.co.uk

STAMFORD LIVING JUNE 2015

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Stamford

PROVISIONS FOR CHILDREN WITH ADDITIONAL NEEDS Antonia Scott finds out what provisions Stamford and the surrounding area has for children with additional learning and educational needs PORTAGE:

Portage is a scheme for teaching pre-school children with special educational needs new and useful skills in their own homes. The basis of Portage is weekly home visiting, with the Portage worker and the parents/ carers working together. The Portage Home Visitor works with parents in their home because young children initially learn best in the security of their own home with the people who know them. The Portage Home Visitor visits the family at home weekly or fortnightly and plans activities with the parents/carers. Every activity is written down, as is every success. Each child’s progress is reviewed at least every three months and the need for ongoing Portage is discussed. Contacts: Bourne & District Portage Service Headteacher: Adam Booker The Willoughby School, Bourne. PE10 9JE Tel: 01778 425203 Other Lincolnshire facilities available in Boston, Gainsborough, Spilsby, Spalding, Louth, Grantham and Lincoln.

SUPPORT GROUPS:

Little Miracles is a parent led support group and charity based in Peterborough for families that have children with additional needs, disabilities and life-limiting conditions. Having formed in 2010, running just one weekly drop-in session, they now run around twenty sessions per week from Mon – Fri, to allow families to choose which sessions they would like to attend. The centre offers a number of other services including day trips and activities, bereavement support, benefits advice, counselling and referrals to other organisations - many of whom regularly hold sessions in conjunction with Little Miracles, to offer advice around specific topics. www.littlemiraclescharity.org.uk/ Tel: 01733 262226

VISIONS CHILDRENS CENTRES:

Visions run free sessions for parents and carers of children under 5 years old in Oakham and Uppingham – see www. visionsccc.co.uk/ for class details. Down’s Syndrome Support - Providing friendship, support, information and

events for children (and adults) with Down’s Syndrome, their families and carers in Stamford, Peterborough, Rutland and the surrounding area. Activities include a wide variety of art activities, music, dancing and singing, free play indoors and out plus a delicious tea! Contact Karen Dean on 07519 309 317 or visit www.padsg.org.

been designed to be fully accessible for all users and has Disabled/Additional Needs Swimming Sessions (1 carer free with each disabled person) on: - Monday- Friday 12 - 1pm (20m Learner Pool) (Shared with adult swimming) - Wednesday 7pm - 9pm (20m Learner Pool) (Public session)

RESPITE CARE:

WILDCATS STARS:

New Horizons Care, based in Market Harborough, delivers high quality, outcome focussed, person-centered respite support services to children (and adults) with: - Mental health conditions - Learning difficulties - Autism - Sensory impairment - Cerebral Palsy - Complex and nursing care - Support required with independence, social inclusion and autonomy • www.newhorizonscare.co.uk Tel: 01536 762332

SWIMMING AS THERAPY:

Oakham C of E Primary School has a hoist located in the swimming pool changing room which enables a disabled swimmer to be hoisted from the changing room and lowered directly in to the pool. Corby East Midlands International Pool has

Wildcats Academy, based in Castle House, St Peter’s Hill, Stamford run weekly classes for children with additional needs. The classes focus on singing, dancing and acting in a safe environment and are led by local teacher Liz Paige who has a wealth of experience working with children of all ages. The class is also supported by Wildcats Academy students who volunteer their time free of charge to help out with the group, and the children also get to perform in the Wildcats end of year show. The classes are held every Monday from 5-6pm and are free of charge, funded through the Wildcats Foundation. • For more information or to discuss a child’s needs in depth, call 01780 762000. www.wildcatstheatreschool.co.uk/

OUTDOOR FUN:

Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) Peterborough & District RDA has been running since 1968 and meets every Wednesday morning in term time and run 5 half hour lessons for children who come from 3 local specialist schools. The children who come to the sessions live with a variety of disabling conditions ranging from learning difficulties to autism, cerebral palsy, blindness or deafness. The sessions are run solely by a group of dedicated volunteers, supported by the willing school staff. www.peterborough-rda.co.uk Rutland Sailability has been running for 15 years and now has over 200 members. They can offer people of all ages an activity which brings some of the freedom their disability seems to have taken away. They operate from Rutland Sailing Club, on the southern shore of Rutland Water, under approved training and operating guidelines set by the RYA and the Sailing Club. Half of their members are able bodied and without them the club could not operate. www.rutland-sailability.org/ STAMFORD LIVING JUNE 2015

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Creating beautiful bespoke kitchens Mark Goodacre creates individually handcrafted kitchens for people who appreciate a higher standard of design and finish in their homes

Come and visit our show room for more examples of our work, or call to make an appointment to discuss your requirements

Telephone 01476 586 159 | email info@markgoodacre.com | www.markgoodacre.com

UPPINGHAM Sales • In-House Cleaning • Bespoke In-House Restoration • Try At Home • Collection & Delivery

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Award Winning Salon

Doesn’t it feel good when you have your hair or nails done? An individual service offering full grooming and styling, including nail clipping and a general health check. We will make your dog feel special when they visit the salon. Only professional products used along with top of the range quality equipment. City & Guilds qualified and a member of the Pet Industry Federation.

Visit my website at:

spoil yourself you deserve it...

www.stamfordscissorhounds.co.uk or call Lisa for a chat Tel: 01780 756211 or 07787 523803. Email: lisa@stamfordscissorhounds.co.uk

Tel: 01780 752725 www.maplesofstamford.co.uk 24 St. Mary’s Street, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 2DJ.

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COUPLES FERTILITY STAMFORD Jo George specialises in the use of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to treat the full range of problems associated with infertility in both men and women.

sing Chinese herbs, acupuncture, dietary advice and lifestyle changes, Jo takes a holistic approach to reproductive health and offers sympathetic advice, well-researched treatment and a genuine message of hope to infertile couples. TREATING INFERTILITY WITH TCM Because TCM aims to restore balance to the whole person, it can be used to treat all non-genetic causes of infertility in both men and women — either in conjunction with modern assisted fertility techniques (IVF, IUI) or on its own. In women, TCM can help with hormonal and ovulatory problems, polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, partially blocked fallopian tubes, unexplained failure to conceive and repeated miscarriage. In men, it can improve sperm count and/or sperm motility including low sperm count, low motility, high abnormal form or anti-sperm antibodies. WHAT TO EXPECT FROM A TREATMENT During your first visit Jo needs to gain a thorough understanding of your fertility and your general health and lifestyle. This involves asking questions about your current symptoms and your medical history, as well as such things as your sleeping pattern, your appetite and digestion, and your emotional wellbeing. Women are particularly asked about their menstrual cycle and any past pregnancies and childbirth, and often BBT charts are used to measure progress.

• Jo is always happy to talk and share her knowledge, please call for a FREE preliminary phone conversation with Jo on 07914 851995. It’s an ideal opportunity to discuss your particular problem. www.lifemedicineclinic.com. Jo George is a fully registered member of the BacC and RCHM, which are the leading regulatory body of acupuncture and herbs in the UK. Jo George is highly trained professional to Masters (distinction) level, and is a very experienced practitioner with over 14 years clinical knowledge.

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UPDATES

Country Traditionals First Anniversary Country Traditionals the Polish Pottery shop in Maiden Lane is celebrating its 1st year in Stamford

icola & Simon are very happy with the first year of trading in Stamford: “We are a little off the beaten track, but people are finding us and once they do they keep coming back.” It’s a small shop and the shelves are full to bursting point with mugs/ jugs/bowls/tea pots/plates and so much more. A wonderful array of patterns, both traditional and modern in this blue/cream stoneware – it is very striking. The range of Polish stoneware is vast - being oven to table, microwave & dishwasher proof, makes it so durable it stands the test of time and cleans up as good a new after every use. If you have not been to the shop yet call in next time you are in town... • 10A Maiden Lane, open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm. www.countrytraditionals.co.uk

Maples of Stamford is Cut above the Rest!

Helping with Fertility

The Great Little Cleaning Company

Lincolnshire Salon wins a place in the L’Oreal Colour Trophy Grand Final 2015

aples of Stamford are on a high after the team won one of only 4 coveted places in the Eastern Heat of the L’Oréal Colour Trophy Award 2015. The team fought off strong competition and wowed a panel of high-profile award-winning judges with their Autumn/ Winter 2015/16 fashion inspired look. The team will now have the chance to compete at the Grand Final event in June which could see them winning one of the coveted L’Oréal Colour Trophy Awards. “This is the first time we have entered the competition, we were delighted just to get into the semi finals as we are a small independent salon – but now to be in the final is amazing. I think me and Laura are still in shock!” says Karen Benson, Owner. • Maples of Stamford, 24 St Mary’s Street, Stamford, Lincolnshire, 01780 752725, reception@maplesofstamford.co.uk

o George is dedicated to helping infertile couples by enhancing their chances to have a baby. At The Broad Street Practice, Stamford she treats both men and women using traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and over the past ten years, couples have come to her with every kind of fertility problem. Some of her patients simultaneously undergo assisted conception programmes; others have no medical intervention other than the treatment they receive from her. TCM is a unique, distinct and independent medical system that has been practised in China for more than 5,000 years. It is still the medicine of choice in the country today, although Western medicine is practised alongside it. Practitioners like Jo view the human body in an entirely different way from their colleagues in Western medicine. According to TCM, everything is interconnected, which means every malfunction in any part of the body has an underlying cause that must be addressed, and treatment involves the whole person. Because TCM aims to restore balance to the whole person, it can be used to treat all non-genetic causes of infertility in both men and women in conjunction with IVF or IUI or on its own. In women, TCM can help with hormonal and ovulatory problems, from PCOS to endometriosis and in men, it can improve sperm count and/or sperm motility. In fact the latest research has shown that TCM can maximise the chance of success when undergoing IVF, proving even the most sophisticated assisted conception techniques can benefit from a helping hand. Jo George is a fully insured registered member of the BacC & RCHM leading regulatory bodies of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine in the UK. Jo is a highly-trained medical practitioner with over 14 years of knowledge and experience in Eastern medicines including extensive training in China, Australia and the UK to Masters standard. • Jo is always happy to talk and share her knowledge, please call for a preliminary phone conversation on 07914 851995. It’s an ideal opportunity to discuss your particular problem and whether you feel she can help you.

he Great Little Cleaning Company realise how important your home is and how busy life becomes, helping customers care for and offer advice on maintaining and time saving ideas to show your home at its best. With an eye for detail and a passion for excellence they are growing successfully in this and many more areas. The GLCC believe it is of utmost importance to achieve not only an exceptional clean but to help harmonise homes that they visit too. The owner Caroline Joyce and her husband Derek speak of how special it is to be part of people’s busy lives watching customers become parents and grandparents for the first time and even taking care of the customer’s pets with a treat in hand and a towel to wipe their feet when they return from the garden. The GLCC have researched into the products that they use, so they now stock and use professional brands and equipment that help to maintain, sanitise and clean the home and offices that they serve. Commercial cleaning is also available to help businesses to stock their paper products plus maintain their own high profile image. • For your own dedicated team please visit www.greatlittlecleaningcompany.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING JUNE 2015

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octoberwillis.com

Perfect Wedding Planning The pressure to plan a wedding can be all consuming, if you are feeling overwhelmed, hire Serenity Weddings to plan your day Value for Money – Weddings are our business. By building close relationships and negotiating preferential rates with suppliers and venues, Serenity Weddings can save you money, in most cases the cost of using our services is dramatically reduced or actually covered. We do not take commissions from our suppliers, we negotiate the best price and pass these directly onto our clients.

Laura

Giving you Time – We recognise the demands of careers, hectic social lives and family commitments. We will save you valuable time from sourcing venues to arranging and attending supplier meetings, budget and financial planning to guest management. Giving you time to do the things that you want. Reduce Stress – At certain points during the planning process stress levels can rise, we can envisage problems and eliminate. Our priority is for the Bride and Groom to enjoy the planning process, right up to their big day, stress free.

Experience and Advice – As professional Wedding Planners we are there to help you with everything from suppliers to etiquette. Our knowledge and skills, along with our contacts ensures that your day comes together seamlessly. It’s all in the Detail – “That will do” is not in our vocabulary. We offer meticulous attention to detail and ensure that the smallest element is not overlooked. We can translate your vision or help you create a wedding to ‘wow’.

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Flexibility – We can amend our services to suit the individual requirements of clients. By arranging a free of charge, no obligation consultation, we can talk through your requirements. For more information call us on: Selena 07710 962 964 Laura 07585 122 182

E: selena@serenityholdings.co.uk • E: laura@serenityholdings.co.uk • W: serenity-weddings.com 22

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Country Traditionals Traditionals Country Country Traditionals Country Traditionals Independent Optometrists and Contact Lens Practitioners

Providing eyecare and caring for eyesight in Stamford for over 30 years Combining clinical excellence with personalised service tailored to your individual needs • Private and NHS eye examinations • Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) • Glaucoma clinic • Contact lenses • Children

• Coloured overlay assessment • Dry eye assessment • Retinal imaging • Visual fields • Wide range of frames and lenses to suit all budgets

Christine Pirrie Optometrist 7-8 Maiden Lane, Stamford PE9 2AZ. | T: 01780 753488 | www.christinepirrie.co.uk

Visitour ourshop shop Visit Visit our shop Visit our shop MaidenLane, Lane,Stamford Stamford Maiden Maiden Lane, Stamford opptourist tourist info&&arts artscentre centre opp info Maiden Lane, opp tourist info &Stamford arts centre opp tourist info & arts centre OpenMon Mon---Sat Sat10am 10am---5pm 5pm Open Open Mon Sat 10am 5pm OpenTel: Mon - Sat755 10am - 5pm Tel: 01780 755 409 01780 409 Tel: 01780 755 409 Tel: 01780 755 409 www.countrytraditionals.co.uk www.countrytraditionals.co.uk

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Not everything in life is black and white...

LATE NIGHT SHOPPING EVENT

on Friday 19th June to raise money for NSPCC Complimentary drinks & nibbles Open until 8pm

10% off when mentioning Stamford Living (5pm - 8pm) #AnnieSloanLate

Authorised stockist in store and online of Chalk Paint™ by Annie Sloan

The ONLY official Annie Sloan Workshops in Stamford!

Gorgeous hand painted furniture available in store

Book on our evening Annie Sloan Workshop 5pm - 8pm Fri 19th June at Chalk Interiors at Stamford Garden Centre

01780 752414

www.chalkinteriors.com 23

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MUSIC

ClassicalSpectacular with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra It’s not every day a world class concert orchestra comes to town, but Peterborough Sings! has just announced exciting plans to bring the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra to the city on Sunday 6th September as part of the sensational Big Names concert series at the Broadway Theatre; a rare opportunity to see the ‘nation’s favourite orchestra’ on home turf and definitely a date for your diary!

ETERBOROUGH Sings’s ambitious Big Names concert series has put the much-loved Broadway Theatre firmly back at the centre of the city’s cultural scene, bringing a diverse mix of internationally renowned musicians to work and perform with Peterborough Male Voice Choir, Peterborough Voices and Peterborough Youth Choir during their highly successful residency at the iconic venue. Following gala concerts with the world famous Black Dyke Band and with global superstars The King’s Singers, plans have now been confirmed to bring the 60-piece Royal Philharmonic Orchestra to the theatre for Classical Spectacular on Sunday 6th September. In keeping with the annual tradition of a classical concert as part of the Peterborough Arts Festival, Classical Spectacular will feature as the grand finale of this year’s Arts Festival weekend, to take place on Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th September. Hosted by BBC Radio Cambridgeshire’s Jane Smith, conducted by Will Prideaux and with performances by the city’s award-winning Peterborough Male Voice Choir, Peterborough Voices, Peterborough Youth Choir and special guest soloists, Classical Spectacular will be an unforgettable celebration of popular classics, showcasing favourites including O Fortuna from Carmina Burana, The Blue Danube, Hallelujah Chorus from Handel’s Messiah, Candide Overture, Flower Duet from Lakme, Pomp and Circumstance March, Chorus of the Hebrew Slaves and many more! A highlight of the evening will be the regional premiere of Hawks and Horses, a new work by internationally acclaimed composer Errollyn Wallen, the “renaissance woman of contemporary British music” (The Observer), best known for her works

Principia and Spirit in Motion which featured in the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Paralympic Games. Specially commissioned by Peterborough Sings!, Hawks and Horses is an imaginative setting of William Shakespeare’s celebrated Sonnet 91, inspired by the city of Peterborough and its surrounding landscape. Peterborough Sings! gratefully acknowledges financial support from Arts Council England, the PRS for Music Foundation, Roythornes Solicitors, Vivacity, and the RVW Trust. • The Broadway Theatre is home to the city’s unique music education charity Peterborough Sings! which works weekly with over 250 members in Peterborough Male Voice Choir, Peterborough Voices and Peterborough Youth Choir as well as with hundreds of schoolchildren through its Arts Council England-funded Singing Strategy. • Classical Spectacular is at the Broadway Theatre at 7.30pm on Sunday 6th September. Tickets from £14 at Peterborough Visitor Information Centre, call 0333 666 3366 or visit www. peterboroughmvchoir.org.uk – EARLY BOOKING IS RECOMMENDED.

OT on the heels of performances with Black Dyke Band and the King’s Singers, the award-winning Peterborough Voices return to Stamford for their fourth annual Summer Concert before heading to London to sing with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at St John’s Smith Square in August. Peterborough Voices have enjoyed phenomenal success since their formation in 2011, winning competition prizes, performing with Brit award-winning group Blake and with Bernie Nolan, singing mass in Siena Cathedral and recording their first CD, Invitation to Eternity. Their third Sing for Life project recently raised well over £8,000 for Sue Ryder’s Thorpe Hall Hospice appeal. Don’t miss this opportunity to see them perform highlights from their repertoire including choral favourites, ballads and songs from the shows! • Peterborough Voices Summer Concert is at Stamford Arts Centre at 7.30pm on Saturday 13th June. Tickets from £10 at Stamford Arts Centre Box Office on 01780 763203 or online at www.stamfordartscentre.com

STAMFORD LIVING JUNE 2015

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THE BROADWAY THEATRE P

CLASSICAL SPECTACULAR THE ROYAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

Peterborough Male Voice Choir, Peterborough Voices Peterborough Youth Choir, William Prideaux conductor

O Fortuna from Carmina Burana, The Blue Danube, Hallelujah Chorus from Messiah, Candide Overture, Flower Duet from Lakmé and many more…

7.30pm Sunday 6th September BOOK NOW! Tickets from Peterborough Visitor Information Centre 0333 666 3366 or online at www.peterboroughmvchoir.org.uk (fees apply)

25 Peterborough Sings! Registered Charity Number: 1139688

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Surgen provides outstanding dermal volumising (plumps up), lifts and contours jowls, reduces wrinkles, treats pigmentation and redness. Improves skin tone, texture and pore size. The treatment erases acne scarring and thickened sun damaged skin. It’s a real alternative to Botox and fillers without the use of Lisa Claypole, founder and owner injections or toxins. The treatment of ELYSIA says, “I’m so excited to stimulates your skin so it’s doing be the first salon in the UK able all the work. Proven clinical to offer these new treatments to results, minimal downtime. my clients. Through clinical trials and studies we have the most We recommend a course of four advanced, effective aesthetic treatments and will bespoke treatments. All our treatments a treatment plan around your work the body’s natural specific concerns. mechanisms – the very best results generated from within” Contact us

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ASK LEO SPECIAL

The Co-op in Stamford Jean Orpin and Sue Lee have traced the ups and downs of the Co-operative Movement in Stamford. The Co-operative Movement

The Co-operative Movement has its roots in the early part of the nineteenth century and the principles of self-help and social equity which developed during the Victorian era. Robert Owen, who served his apprenticeship here in Stamford and went on to build New Lanark Mills in Scotland, was the inspiration for the Co-operative Movement. He believed in communities working together for the common good. William King, a physician, followed up Owen’s ideas giving practical advice and encouragement to members to open food shops as everyone needed food. One of the first successful retail co-operatives was established in 1844 by the Rochdale Pioneers. A group of weavers opened the first store on December 21st 1844 with a small selection of essential items such as butter, sugar, flour, oatmeal and a few candles. They quickly expanded the range of goods and the store became a pattern followed by many others. They created principles to follow. Each member had a vote and membership was open to everyone. There was a dividend paid on purchases and trading was by cash only. There was a policy of only selling pure and unadulterated goods and no allegiance to any one religion or political party. By 1900 there were 1,439 co-operatives and 2 million members. To buy in the best markets they amalgamated and traded overseas, moving into manufacturing, farming and importing. The Co-operative Group formed gradually over 140 years from the merger of many independent retail societies, and their wholesale societies and federations.

Peterborough Equitable Industrial Cooperative Society The society was founded as Peterborough Equitable Industrial Co-operative Society in 1876 and incorporated in 1887. It later absorbed other societies, becoming Peterborough and District Co-operative Society. They offered a personal, high quality service to their customers. Members could also sign up to have fresh bread and milk delivered each day. The milk was produced in Yaxley and bread made locally. There were a number of branches for the convenience of their customers. Cultural activities and educational classes were provided for children and employees. Above: Early Co-op advert

Stamford Branch

Below: 44 & 45 High St

A small branch of the Peterborough Cooperative opened in Stamford and as this proved a success in 1909 the Co-op bought a building at the east end of the High Street. This 18th century building was formerly owned by J. S Loweth, a wine and spirit merchant. It was rebuilt in a similar style recreating the old architectural features at the request of prominent local townspeople. Three shops were created on the site to fulfil the needs of the Society. The corner shop was for drapery, boots and outfitting, then there was a butchery and a grocery shop next door. A grocery warehouse was built behind the shop and the upper floor was a meeting room for the Society and for hiring out. The fittings were made in the Society’s workshops in Peterborough. Numbers 1 and 2 St George’s Street were rebuilt to extend the main store in 1966 and no 3 became a butcher’s shop. Today the store belongs to Marks and Spencer.

The Grand Opening – 12th February 1910. At three o’clock the town band under the direction of Mr. Steele began to play to the

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large crowd assembled outside the building. Mr Lucas a member of the General Committee opened the proceedings and expressed pleasure at the rapid progress made by the Society in the town, which he said was a credit to the members. He presented Mr Shillaker and Mr Dyer, the managers, with silver keys. Mr Dyer opened the Drapery shop and Mr Shillaker the grocery shop. Visitors from the March, Whittlesey and Ramsay branches were conducted on a tour of the building. A tea followed in the Assembly Rooms attended by 700 people in two sittings. Before the evening entertainment, the Director of the Co-operative Wholesale Society spoke of the advantages of co-operation. He said that the Co-operative Movement aimed at a fairer distribution of wealth and raising the standard of living. The membership of the Society was 897 when the stores opened and the average sales-permember for the first year was £23. 15s. There were 171 depositors with the Penny Bank.

Expansion For fifty years after the Grand Opening the Co-operative Society thrived in Stamford with a number of shops specialising in different areas of business. Number 36 High Street became the Co-op chemists after it was rebuilt in 1939. This business moved later from the High Street to St Mary’s Street and then finally to the Sheepmarket surgery at the Hospital. Numbers 44 and 45 High Street were purchased, rebuilt and opened as the drapery, tailoring and shoe department. (Later Wilko and now known as Wilkinson’s) This is particularly remembered for its ‘cash railway’, the Lamson Pneumatic tube system, which conveyed the cash in metal canisters to the cashier who would return any change. Number 51 High Street became the Coop Egg and Poultry Society. This shop was demolished at the same time as other properties on the street in 1966 although it had been an important medieval house. The whole range of buildings was replaced with a modernist building, which many consider quite out of character but a floral design mural was rescued and placed in the museum. Tesco now occupy part of the building which stretched as far as the Nat West Bank. Another branch store was established in Doughty Street then for or a short time there was a Co-op supermarket, Rainbow Stores, on Little Casterton Road. (Site now re-developed)

Deliveries The bakery, butchery and dairy departments were set up at 4 and 5 Wharf Road... This was managed by Mr Tee for many years. Many people recall the deliveries of milk and bread made for many years by horse and cart around the town. The horses were stabled where the Wharf Street car park is now and were taken to graze down Priory Road. Local people also remember the horse and cart delivering paraffin and coal to outlying villages until the 1950’s.

Decline The Co-operative movement expanded for over a century but that changed in the 1960’s and 70’s. Societies like Peterborough failed but these failures were not always obvious as societies amalgamated. The world of retailing

High St Co-op Store

High St Department Store

was changing and many co-operatives failed to move with the times. Now the Co-op has sold nearly all their department stores to concentrate on food, funeral care, opticians and travel. The department store in Stamford closed a number of years ago and more recently the Coop gave up its Westgate store in Peterborough. The Co-op, which was the most important retailer in Stamford does not have a single store since they sold the pharmacy business in 2014. Only R J Scholes Funeral Service in St George’s St, a member of the Central England Co-op, has a base in Stamford.

Today The Co-op Society survives elsewhere however and still sticks to its ideals. It is owned by its Members, is an educational charity and they have been at the forefront of modern ethical trading. They were in advance of other supermarkets by concentrating on smaller stores so perhaps their future will be brighter? Perhaps it will return to Stamford?

We are grateful to Stamford Photographic Society for the use of their photographs on this page. Thanks also to readers who responded to our article about Butchers in Stamford. We will be in touch again and include your information in due course. If you would like to comment on this article about the Coop please write to Ask Leo at 1 St Peter’s St or e-mail askleo@btinternet.com

Ask Leo would like to hear from you if you have more stories about The Co-op in Stamford. Email them at askleo@btinternet.com

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Gillian Durno

Paintings, Prints & Cards Gillian

Contemporary floral, still life & impressionist landscape paintings. Rutland Open Studios June 6/7, 13/14, 28th At Lavender Cottage, 8 Redmiles Lane, Ketton Peterborough Open Studios June 27th - July 12th Art in the Heart, Peterborough

www.gilliandurno.co.uk

Mobile 07961 608172

gillian-durno-paintings

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

Window Repair

Why replace your timber windows when you can restore? Traditional Restoration offers a cost-saving alternative to window replacement.

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www.traditional-restoration.co.uk @tradrest

Offering home boarding as an alternative to kennels Dog Holiday Homes based in and around the local area We match your dog to the right home for them You are able to meet the home beforehand Your dog is treated like one of the family

Contact Anna: 01733 253632 / 07590282005 anna@yourpetsparadise.co.uk www.yourpetsparadise.co.uk

Chartered Certified Accountants and Chartered Tax Advisers

We are growing……… Bulley Davey is proud to announce the opening of its newest office in Stamford. The office, located at 2 St Mary’s Hill, will provide a complete business and financial support service. Contact the Stamford team on 01780 769303 or email bdstamford@bulleydavey.co.uk for further information.

Providing intelligent accounting tax and business advice since 1935.

www.bulleydavey.co.uk Corby Peterborough

Hitchin Spalding

Holbeach STAMFORD

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UPDATES

Gillian Durno, Artist Local artist Gillian Durno will be launching a selection of new paintings at her Open Studios this June

illian was born in Stamford and graduated with a BA Hons degree in Primary teaching and Art from Hull University in 1994. Gillian’s work is a celebration of her interest in still life, flowers, landscape and texture. Gillian paints from a studio set in her pretty walled garden in Ketton, Rutland. Gillian’s Open Studios event is always popular with clients returning year after year, many setting her new commissions or simply coming to have a chat with her over a glass of Pimms! Gillian also runs Art Workshops for children during the summer holidays and offers one to one lessons. Open Studio at Lavender Cottage, 8 Redmiles Lane, Ketton PE9 3RG are June 6/7, 13/14 and 28th 11-4pm. Peterborough Open Studios at Art in the Heart, Bridge Street, Peterborough: June 27th- July 12th open daily except Mondays. • Limited edition giclee prints start at £80.00; Originals start from £350.00. For more information: www.gilliandurno.co.uk Mobile 07961 608172

Traditional Restoration M

any people decide to have their external woodwork repainted over the summer months, and this is advisable to keep it in good condition. However, before you do that, check your windows. Can you open them? Often wooden windows become painted shut over time. This does not mean they are no longer able to be used. They can usually be returned to full working order. James from Traditional Restoration will strip the paint from them if required to get them working again. If you have sash windows that have not been opening correctly for as long as you can remember, (and believe us when we say this is all too common!) James can soon rectify this. He will remove the sashes from existing box frame. The sashes are then weighed and weight can be added if necessary to balance sashes correctly. Any old sash cord is replaced with new wax coated sash cord, and the sashes can then be re-hung. He can also repair any unexpected rot. • James can be contacted on 01572 720524 or 07841 527855.

Year of the Dogs S

ome of you may remember our feature in late 2013 about Anna from Peakirk who had just set up her own dog boarding agency, Your Pet’s Paradise. Maybe your dog has even been to stay with one of her lovely Holiday Homes! Well it has been a successful 18 months since then and Anna is pleased to report that her business is going from strength to strength. What started as just an idea of dogs staying in people’s homes rather than kennels has become a reality and many happy dogs in our area and beyond have had lovely holidays of their own with Your Pet’s Paradise. All Holiday Homes are real dog lovers who thoroughly enjoy having canine company from tiny Terriers to gorgeous Great Danes. They are also as varied as the dogs they look after; from retired couples, to homes who can only have dogs for weekends and school holidays. There really is a home to suit every dog! Many dogs now have their regular holiday destination with one of Anna’s homes and reports of them being thrilled when they arrive for a holiday of their own come in very often. Dog owners are also happy to have the peace of mind that their dog is being loved and cared for while they’re away. Whether it’s day care, a night or two, or a full holiday, the dogs that stay with Your Pet’s Paradise are given all the fun and attention they could ever want. If you are interested in having your dog looked after by Your Pet’s Paradise or indeed in being a Holiday Home then please contact Anna for more information. • Contact Anna 01733 253632 / anna@ yourpetsparadise.co.uk / www.yourpetsparadise.co.uk

Support that’s set in stone You may already have come across local business Stamford Stone Company – they are renowned for supplying the finest quality limestone, flooring, landscaping and fireplaces to architects, developers, builders’ merchants, self-builders, renovators and homeowners all over the UK. een to make a difference in their community, the family-run company, who are already involved with sporting clubs like Stamford AFC to supporting training initiatives at local colleges, wanted to lend their support to a local charity so earlier this year, they chose Anna’s Hope. Director Laura Green, who has recently joined the fundraising committee at Anna’s Hope, explains why: “You can’t help but be touched by the work that they do. From open air concerts and fun runs to picnics and curry evenings, we’re delighted to offer our support to such an active local charity that make an incredible difference to the lives of children and young people with brain tumours. This summer we’d like to support Anna’s Hope with a special promotion. For every square metre of flooring and external paving sold in June and July, we’ll be donating £1 to the charity.” Anna’s Hope is dedicated to helping children and young people diagnosed with a brain tumour. To find out more about Anna’s Hope, visit http://annas-hope.co.uk/. • If you’re thinking of new flooring for your home this summer, visit www. stamfordstone.co.uk, telephone 01780 740970 or come and see the team in their new showroom at Swaddywell Quarry.

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FOOD & DRINK

‘More Tea Vicar!’ Deborah Pennell, with help from some of our wonderful local Vicars, takes ‘Afternoon Tea’ and sees how we are keeping up this Great British Tradition

’VE had such fun writing this month’s article, met some inspirational people and worked my way through some delicious afternoon teas. Not at all good for the presummer diet but somehow having tea with a Vicar seems to vanquish those sins!! As one of them quoted to me,”food and faith walk hand in hand”. If I had managed to visit more places I would have, but I think by the end of the month I may not have actually been able to walk, so everything in moderation! I have hand-picked a few of our wonderful local hotels and cafés to visit and listed others that can also offer a really good Afternoon Tea. These days indulging in Afternoon tea is unlikely to be a daily or even a weekly occurrence in our lives. It is may be used to celebrate a Great Aunt’s birthday, a Wedding Anniversary, Christening or just as a social gathering of friends. Henry James famously said: “there are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea”. I must agree with him.

The tea drinking tradition The custom of tea drinking dates back to the third millennium BC in China but was made popular in England during the 1660s by King Charles II. It was not until the mid 17th Century that the concept of ‘Afternoon Tea’ first appeared. It is widely documented that during the 1840s Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford originated the idea of Afternoon Tea. Some historians even relate it to a specific occasion when she was staying at Belvoir Castle and was feeling rather hungry in the mid afternoon. The Duchess called for a tray of tea, bread and butter and cakes to be brought to her boudoir. Thereafter, tea was brought to her around 4 or 5pm ‘to stem one’s hunger’ between lunch and dinner, served at 8pm. This ritual was copied by many a Country House. Afternoon tea moved to the drawing room, friends were invited to join in and often this would include the local Vicar. So when compiling this article I researched the origin of the saying “More Tea Vicar?” It made me smile! According to many writings, the words would be uttered by the Lady of the House. This was normally to divert attention, from an uncouth guest who had broken wind or belched rather loudly and she did so in order to avoid embarrassment to the Vicar. Not to encourage

him to consume more tea! An amusing explanation I feel! Afternoon tea traditionally consisted of a selection of delicate sandwiches, normally including cucumber, cakes and pastries. Served with cups of delicate leaf tea. Scones were not

introduced until the 20th century and with them came a quandary. Do you put jam before cream or cream before jam? In Devon they put cream then jam but in Cornwall jam before cream. In Rutland I think we can do whatever we like as long as there are plenty of both!

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Father Gavin Cooper Father Gavin Cooper has been in charge of the Benefice of St Mary’s and St Martin’s in Stamford for nearly a year now. He is the new kid on the block as far as Vicars go in town but he is fast establishing himself as a man with a mission and that can only benefit his churches hugely. Our venue for Afternoon Tea was the very comfortable conservatory at The William Cecil Hotel. If the weather had been kinder I think we might have sat out in the sun on their wonderful terrace, however that was not to be. A wonderful Three Tiered Tea stand arrived with their Traditional Afternoon Tea. It looked fantastic and proved equally delicious to eat. We worked our way through perfect sandwiches, scones, jam and clotted cream, macaroons, carrot cake, small bruleés and ‘to die for’ chocolate tart. An explosion of colour and taste all washed down with enough Teapig’s tea to sink a battleship! The result of this indulgence in all things delicious and naughty was that we both agreed a good afternoon sleep just might be required! Our conversation was varied. We talked about his former Church in Camden, food and faith, dogs, children and religion, fundraising for the Church and his love of music as a pianist and vocalist. He is adamant that his churches should be kept open to the public during the day, for people to visit or use as a peaceful corner in a busy world. St Martin’s regularly hold music events. These are a must. The acoustics in this church are amazing and the money raised is used to pay for the upkeep of the Church. However, the biggest challenge so far is about to begin. St Martin’s needs to raise £100,000. The Tower Roof needs substantial work and they are hoping to bring the sound system and lighting up to date as well as putting in allimportant toilet and kitchen facilities. Looks to me like Father Gavin has his work cut out and that will obviously involve more tea! frgavincooper@gmail.com www.musicatstmartins.org

Reverend Andy Fyall Reverend Andy Fyall, Superintendent Minister, has been at Stamford Methodist Church in Barn Hill for six years this September. At present he is in charge of eight Methodist churches in the area, a very busy man indeed. I took Reverend Andy for Afternoon Tea to a wonderfully kept secret, Barnsdale Lodge Hotel on the road to Oakham. Right slap bang in the middle of his many churches he had never been to this venue but had driven past it regularly. I think this could be said for a lot of us, but steal yourself one day and go in – it is quite the most wonderful hotel. With a new Garden room completing in June it has to be one of the top locations in Rutland to go for Afternoon Tea and it’s sensibly priced as well. We were met by Ed Burrows, the Hotel’s Managing Director who took time to show us the new Garden Room area and outdoor courtyard. We found a lovely spot to sit in the old part of the hotel where there are comfortable chairs and sofas. Their signature Barnsdale Farmhouse Tea arrived on a Three Tiered stand with a delicious selection of neatly cut sandwiches, scones with jam and clotted cream and a wonderful array of small cakes and pastries. Everything tasted as good as it looked and I don’t think we really did it justice. Teapig’s Tea is served here too. We chatted for ages about Reverend Andy’s Churches and the various amazing projects that they have coming up but most notably the Real Junk Food Project, which is about to be launched at Barn Hill. When he mentioned ‘junk food’ I immediately thought of our various fast food establishments around town and raised my eyebrows! But no, this is something completely different. Pioneered by a guy called Adam Smith, in Leeds, this idea is genius and aims to offer something back to the local community. Food, which is ‘out of date mark’ and destined for landfill is collected from local supermarkets and small local food shops and is then turned into amazing café style food by volunteer chefs. The resulting menu is then delivered in the café as a ‘pay as you feel’ meal. Exciting times ahead for Reverend Andy and his faithful band of volunteers. andy.fyall@methodist.org.uk www.stamfordmethodistchurch.org.uk www.realjunkfoodproject.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING JUNE 2015

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FOOD & DRINK

Reverend Jo Saunders Reverend Jo Saunders has lived around Stamford for 40 years now and knows the area like the back of her hand. Having worked at the Stamford Girls School she now concentrates her time on the five churches under her umbrella – Great Casterton, Little Casterton, Tickencote, Pickworth and Tinwell. We met at the increasingly popular Stamford Garden Centre. This now has wonderful areas with armchairs surrounding wood burning stoves as well as a covered outdoor area. It is a great place to meet and there’s ample parking too. We indulged in the Garden Centre’s homemade Fruit scones with jam and cream and they were delicious. There are also a really good selection of homemade sandwiches and cakes to choose from, but booking is always recommended for a full Afternoon Tea. I had a delicious cup of Pavilion Garden Tea, which comes in many flavours. Reverend Jo, who doesn’t drink tea, was delighted with her choice of Luscombe, apple juice with ginger. The super attentive staff are very friendly without being intrusive. I was interested to hear about life as a rural vicar with Churches in the small villages surrounding Stamford. It is obvious that these churches rely completely on their congregations to keep them open, with the Sunday collection going straight to pay any bills. The church at Great Casterton has a close relationship with the local primary school and they have their annual fundraising event in the school grounds on Saturday 20th June. Anyone is welcome to this and it is a fun event. Reverend Jo is another busy vicar. On Wednesday mornings she hosts

a Coffee morning at the garden centre at 10.30am as well as a Mums and Toddlers group on Fridays from 10-12noon in the Church Hall. Both these groups take place during term time and are open to anyone in the community. On other days Reverend Jo can be found visiting people in the local community and busying herself in the Church. revjosaunders@live.co.uk

Reverend Martyn Taylor Reverend Martyn Taylor has spent 20 years at St. George’s in Stamford and has been Rector since 2003. If I’m allowed to say this, he doesn’t look old enough! The Orangery at Burghley House provided us with a beautiful setting to enjoy their Signature Afternoon Tea and it was exquisite. Reverend Martyn suggested the scones were amongst the best he’d ever eaten and I would totally agree. They were light, yet crisp on the outside with a hint of orange. Mary Berry would struggle to bake better ones! Neat rectangular sandwiches filled with delicious smoked salmon and dill, cucumber, cream cheese and chive and ham and mustard. Gooey brownies and summery lemon cake. With the ever popular, Teapig’s Tea to accompany. We got onto the subject of St. George’s charitable objectives and what the Church did for the local community. It was very interesting to hear about an DIRECTORY FOR outreach programme they are involved in called CAP AFTERNOON TEA: – Christians Against Poverty. This is a nationwide Barnsdale Lodge Hotel programme helping people with personal debt. 01572 724678 Simon Jary is tasked with the role of helping local www.barnsdalelodge.co.uk people process their paperwork, plan and budget The Orangery at Burghley for their future and negotiate with any creditors in 01780 761989 order to secure a debt free life. Spiralling debt can Orangery@burghley.co.uk affect so many and it is a comfort to know that there The William Cecil Hotel is help at hand. 01780 750070 St. George’s also has a link with a village in www.williamcecil.co.uk Uganda called Karamoja. This was where Rev. The Kitchen Garden, Martyn formerly taught local people to become 01780 765656 vicars. The Church in Stamford regularly sends Stamford Garden Centre a team from their congregation to this area to Baines Tea Room, Uppingham help with capital projects like Church building, 01572 823317 accommodation and improving water systems. A www.bainesbakery.co.uk rewarding and fascinating trip for those involved. Castle Cottage, Oakham A mother’s and toddler group, Alpha courses, 01572 757952 Home Groups and 3 services on a Sunday keep www.castlecottagecafe.co.uk Reverend Martyn and his team very busy but never The George Hotel too busy for tea! 01780 750750 martyn.taylor@stgeorgeschurch.net www.georgehotelofstamford.com www.stgeorgeschurch.net www.capuk.org STAMFORD LIVING JUNE 2015

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UPDATES

Bluebird Care – Peterborough and Rutland “We are here to provide the highest, most dignified and professional service that our customers require, want and need.”

luebird Care in Stamford is run by Company Directors Tim Carey and Leisa MacKenzie, who pride themselves on providing the best care possible to their customers throughout, Rutland, Stamford & East Northants. The services Bluebird Care provide support their customers to maintain their chosen lifestyle. “Each customer is an individual and therefore they have their own individual requirements, needs and preferences. So, we keep the customer at the centre of everything we do.” Bluebird Care offers a unique choice of flexible homecare and support services tailored exactly to a person’s specific needs, as assessed by and agreed with the customer and Bluebird Care. These could be anything from a 30 minute visit, to 24 hour live-in care. You may need short-term help after an illness, or you may require respite care because your usual carer is having a break. Whatever your needs, Bluebird Care are happy to talk to you about your requirements. “We aim to provide you with the same standard of care that we would expect for our own families. This means valuing each person’s unique qualities and seeing them as an individual, and not as a list of care needs. We provide the support the customer needs and wants, our approach it not “this is what we are doing today” our approach is “what would you like us to do today?” This is what makes Bluebird Homecare Services different to many other care providers - they put the client first. • Bluebird Care Peterborough & Rutland, 16 Wharf Road, Stamford, PE9 2EB Tel: 01780 480881 www.bluebirdcare.co.uk/peterborough-rutland

Priest’s House Summer Exhibition Classic Car Photography: Art or Science?

uring June, July and August the National Trust’s Priest’s House at Easton on the Hill will contain an exhibition of photographs by professional artist-photographer Julie Allan displaying classic and vintage racing cars as you’ve never seen them before! The Priest’s House will be specially manned each Sunday during the three months between 2.00 and 4.30pm. At other times access is possible every day from 10.00 to 5.00pm by visiting one of the nearby key holders whose names are posted on the outside of the building. • Entry is free. All are welcome

Summer Jazz in the Orchard Saturday 18th July, 7pm to 11pm

erfectstorm Lifestyle – award-winning event team from Montreux Jazz Festival, Cannes and Caviar tasting in Barcelona present renowned jazz musicians for an evening of jazz and gastronomy under the stars. 6 piece jazz artists from Ronnie Scotts, The Savoy and Dorchester, the Purcell School, Good Guys Orchestra and disco legends Odysee provide live music. Ticket price includes 2 choices of gourmet picnic, with à la carte options, wine and champagne to pre-order and fully licensed bar. If you are a jazz lover or a foodie you will adore this exclusive boutique event. Banks Farm, Stowe Road, Barholm, Stamford, PE9 4RA, parking available. • Ticket prices inc of picnic £35 and £40. For information and booking contact simon@perfectstorm.inc@co.uk - Tel: 01778 561318/07787 557122

Bugtopia opens its doors! N

ew to the Sykes Lane play area at Rutland Water this summer will be Bugtopia – a new zoo planned for the site formerly occupied by the Butterfly Farm. Zoo occupants will include stick insects, tarantulas, scorpions, chameleons, parrots, iguanas, foxes, raccoons and many more. A jungle area with animals and birds living free is planned as well as an educational space with activities to enlighten children about bugs, reptiles and animals with a strong conservation angle. Owners Natalia and Jozef commented, “We want to teach children about the important role the bugs and birds play in our everyday lives.” • Tel: 07938 232723 for more information.

Artists Markets in Stamford

Three Lincolnshire-based practising artists – Eve Marshall, Shalini Austin and Cathi Prince – have got together to organise Artist Markets and Exhibitions promoting the extraordinary workmanship and talent they see around them. Escartists events are a By Invitation opportunity for artists to showcase their work in a friendly environment, allowing customers and designers to meet and interact. The artist led events will be held at Stamford Arts Centre. In 2015 Escartists have dates confirmed for: • Artist’s Market in Stamford Arts Centre Ballroom – Sunday 14th June • An exhibition in the Stamford Arts Centre Gallery – Monday 26th October to Sunday 1st November • Artist’s Market, running with the exhibition, in the Ballroom – Sunday 1st November “We create events to showcase the talent of people who take raw materials and turn them into unique works of art” - Escartist Founder Eve Marshall 2015 PARTICIPATING ARTISTS: Cathi Prince – Stained Glass Christina Stevens – Ceramist Emma Fuller – Silversmith Eve Marshall – Artisan Felter Gabriel Moore – Coin Cutter & Silversmith Gianni Deidda – Scroll Saw Artist Jeni Cairns – Metalsmith Karen Neale – Artist Sarah Clark – Silk Batik Art Shalini Austin – Wire and Metal Art Sue Winward – Pottery Teresa Hodges – Artist • For more details please visit www.escartists.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/escartistsUK ; twitter: @lovewhatslocal

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COMMUNITY

Stamford’s Community Transport Scheme For many people, Christ Church’s community transport scheme is an indispensable resource. William Eichler meets one of its regular customers

OR most people keeping a doctor’s appointment or doing the school run is a simple task. It does not require much forethought and it is normally just a case of picking up the car keys and leaving the house. But for others it is not so easy. Transport is not something that can be taken for granted by everyone. Three years ago, Catherine “Cat” Melough suffered multiple seizures and was left unable to walk. A dental nurse for 12 years, she had to stop work and now she relies on the Community Transport Scheme (CTS) as an affordable and safe alternative to public transport. I met Cat and Ian Collis, the CTS’ scheme manager, in Cat’s ground floor apart-ment in Stamford. Abbie, Cat’s two year old daughter, abandoned her toys and committed herself to repeatedly taking my phone, notebook and pen and handing them to her mother or Ian, or simply stacking them neatly on the sofa. Clearly she already has a healthy scepticism of journalists. Cat tells me about her experiences with public transport. On one occasion, she says, she and Abbie were left stranded by a taxi driver on the pavement right outside their flat. He couldn’t leave his car, he told her, because the insurance wouldn’t cover it. There is no risk of this with the CTS though, she says. The drivers ensure that the passengers are safely inside their homes before leaving. “I wouldn’t want to lose the car scheme,” Cat says. “They’re like my friends. They look after you.”

“I wouldn’t want to lose the car scheme. They’re like my friends. They look after you.”

THE SET UP The CTS has a team of volunteer drivers who give up their time to run people around. They use their own cars and the CTS pays for the fuel. For group outings, there is a 16-seater wheelchair accessible minibus (and a second one on the way thanks to a recent government grant) and a car that can also take a wheelchair. They will happily take members of the CTS anywhere they require. The dentist, the bank,

a day out to Leicester - it doesn’t matter. If you are a member of the scheme, then you can get a lift anywhere. The drivers are organised by Ian and a dedicated team of office coordinators who work out of Christ Church (Green Lane, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1HE) manning a telephone booking service 50 weeks of the year, Monday to Friday between 9am and 1pm. MORE THAN JUST A LIFT They do more than just take people from A to B though. Something else many of us take for granted is having a friend or a family member on hand to chat to. But not everyone is so lucky. The CTS drivers talk to their passengers and provide them with a little company, even if it’s just for a short period. “A lot of the people we take are very lonely”, Ian tells me. “They don’t see anybody from one week to the next accept for the driver that takes them somewhere. The thing that our drivers do that taxi drivers don’t do is they’ll look after them, chat to them, listen to them, help them take their shopping into

the house.” For Cat there is an added dimension. The CTS takes Abbie to nursery regularly. If they didn’t, then it would be unlikely that the two of them could stay together. It is, effectively, what keeps her family together: “I owe them a lot. I owe them everything really.” The CTS is very much a part of the church community. According to Rev. Nikki Bates, “it reflects the mission of the church - reaching out into the community with hospitality and love, respecting people’s individual needs and helping us to truly become “A Place to Belong”.” They cover Stamford, Bourne and many of the surrounding villages and rely on membership fees. Membership is subject to certain requirements, such as lack of access to transport or disability. But it is very reasonably priced. For an individual it is £12 per year and for a group it is £25. If you think you may be eligible to join then phone Ian on 01780 482380. STAMFORD LIVING JUNE 2015

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PROPERTY

Reality verses virtual reality? Robert Goodwin believes that using an online estate agent could ultimately be a false economy

quality and reliability of a local estate agent’s expert valuation. Thirdly, you may have to show any potential buyers over the property on your own. How can you be sure about security? Finally, you’ll potentially have to negotiate a price yourself with a buyer who may be far more skilled, checking the chain talking to the lawyers, establishing whether the potential buyers are who they say they are and whether they can really afford to buy your house. Beyond this you’ll be agreeing prices for carpets, curtains, sheds and light fittings etc and then maybe have to renegotiate your way out of any problems that may arise from the results of the survey, should there be damp, the need for rewiring, re-plumbing or a myriad other problems that can arise. To put it simply: you could miss out on a fortune, giving away tens of thousands of pounds for a sale under value and you have that agonising feeling that you will never know whether you sold at a high enough price.

N many markets the internet has revolutionised and empowered consumer purchasing. But what about the property industry? Are online-only estate agents creating sunny uplands for consumers with better deals, or is using the internet for such a vital acquisition simply leaving people in the dark? Over 90% of property searches now start online and the major property websites have certainly revolutionised the way consumers search and the way they deal with agents. Some commentators even speculate that “high street” agents will become extinct as the internet takes over their role. While on the surface a remote “virtual” estate agent can sometimes harness technology to match buyers with suitable properties, the processes of buying, renting, selling or renting a property tend to be emotionally charged and complex. Property transactions are not an exact science. Buyers invariably extend their initial budget, in some cases by a third, and may purchase a property totally different from the one they originally thought they were looking for. There are many twists and turns in the life of a property transaction which a computer will never allow for. Negotiating the ship through these choppy waters instead requires the steady hand of a canny estate agent — on the ground and in person — at the tiller.

AN ART AS WELL AS SCIENCE There is a great art in this and the skilled agents do far more business than the ‘nudniks’. Indeed, the traditional full-service estate agency model is a contingency-based system with fees between 1-2% charged at the end of what can often be a tortuous process taking months or years. Only when the seller gets a sale on their optimum terms does the agent get the reward. So far so good: the agent deserves a higher fee as a result. An agent actually sells a tiny proportion of the properties on their books, but this is all part of the contingency business model and rightly so. Yes, it is a higher risk for the agent but it’s fairer for the seller. The competition between the agents and market forces ensures that the fees are always reasonably modest and that the best terms are achieved. The estate agent deals with all the

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processes, from start to finish, and the seller is spared any direct involvement ‘on the coal-face’ unless they want to be ‘hands-on’. At the end of the process, the seller then ‘nurses that warm inner satisfaction’ that they have achieved the best possible price. Problem solved. IT’S NOT AS STRAIGHTFORWARD AS IT MIGHT APPEAR But what about the online estate agency business model? Why could something that first appears like a bargain in fact end up risking part of your largest tax-free capital asset and even be a safety risk? Unlike a traditional agency, the online estate agency model throws up a tissue of unknowns. Firstly, you may meet a representative, who may not be particularly well trained, measuring your house and charging you up to £800 for the listing, which you have to pay regardless of the outcome. If you fail to sell your home via this method, you have to go to a conventional agent and pay again. Secondly, you don’t benefit from the

STILL THE BEST CHOICE Of course there is nothing new about the online estate agency model. Three decades ago, there were a handful of listing-only estate agents who encountered resistance from the consumer to the principle of a ‘listing-only fee’ and died a death after ten years. We wish them luck with this pursuit. So despite conventional estate agency being considered — by some - as one of the lowest esteemed professions, there is a reason why, in this internet-dependent age, 99% of consumers still choose to use them for a sale and purchase. In some things there are just no short cuts. Therein lies a perfect illustration of why the internet/computer on its own is just not the right medium for the job at hand. I rest my case. • Robert Goodwin, 2-3 St John St, Stamford, PE9 2DA Tel: 01780 750000 www.goodwinpropertyservices.co.uk

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Independant . . . your local estate agent!

goodwinpropertyservices.co.uk

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.

centre means we are perfectly placed to ensure all our properties receive maximum exposure.

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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. 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 our degree of professionalism, we offer a service that is hard to be beaten. Whether you are buying, selling or letting, why not let us help you. All you need to do is contact us : call, email or visit the website and we’ll do the rest!

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UPDATES

Stamford Arts Festival S

aturday June 27th 2015 will see the town centre taken over by street performers and artists for Stamford’s first Arts Festival organised by local not-for-profit Art Pop-Up in association with INK Contemporary Theatre. Red Lion Square, the High Street and Ironmonger Street will host performance poets, mime, a sword swallower, contemporary ballet and acoustic bands in designated Festival Performance Spots. Artist, Jason Duckmanton, will also be working on his new commission on the subject of Stamford’s stone heritage and a photographer will be taking free fun portraits of passers-by in a giant frame. The one day festival will coincide with the Kiwanis’ Parade of Floats; both events culminate on the Recreation Ground. An Artists’ Marquee will be sited there where throughout the day the public can join in with 3 free art activities – building a large upcyled townscape with artist Sue Shields, based on some of Stamford’s historic structures; creating polymer clay flora and fauna with artist Kathryn Parsons or have a go at street art and stencilling with Blok Collective. Jeni Cairns will be plasma cutting her award-winning metal designs live on site, with several other artists including Karen Neale, Claire Daniels and Janet Bates, also demonstrating a diverse range of art practices. Stamford Junior School will also be displaying works from the Art strand of the school’s ‘Music Arts Drama’ week. Art Pop-Up is one of the BBC’s Get Creative Champions and the festival will be part of the initiative. As the Arts Festival is funded by the National Lottery through Arts Council England all performances and arts activities will be free of charge. The event is also supported by LCC Big Community Fund, Stamford Town Council, Homebase and Welland Valley Timber.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS: 10am-1.30pm ARTS FESTIVAL: free performances Red Lion Square, High Street and Ironmongers Street 11.30am-5pm ARTS FESTIVAL: Artists’ Marquee and free art activities on the Recreation Ground 12-5pm KIWANIS FESTIVAL on the Recreation Ground 1.30-2.30pm approx. KIWANIS FESTIVAL: parade through town centre

Battle of the Proms

The 11th annual Burghley House Battle Proms Open Air Concert: Celebrating the 200th Anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo

he ever popular Battle Proms Picnic Concert will return to Burghley House on Saturday 4 July 2015, for an exceptional evening of sublime classical music, carefully choreographed Spitfire and cavalry displays, dramatic cannon fire and a stunning firework finale, all set against the striking backdrop of the grand Elizabethan architecture of Burghley House. The Battle Proms takes much of its historical inspiration from the Napoleonic wars, which came to a conclusion 200 years ago at the Battle of Waterloo when Napoleon’s rule as Emperor of the French was ended. As well as marking this 200th anniversary the Battle Proms team are also planning to celebrate 75 years since the Battle of Britain and 70 years since the end of the Second World War with a number of additions to the programme. Much loved TV and radio presenter, author and celebrated compère Pam Rhodes will be hosting the event; and the Rockabellas, today’s answer to The Andrews Sisters, will warm up the audience with an upbeat performance of unrivalled vintage vocals to keep your toes tapping as you picnic and get you into the party mood. Later in the programme Battle Promenaders will be treated to the Battle Proms signature piece –

Beethoven’s Battle Symphony – performed as he intended with the full complement of 193 live firing cannon providing a thunderous percussion! Conducted by Douglas Coombes and performed by the New English Concert Orchestra, the programme will also include soul-stirring classical favourites suited to the grandeur of the historic setting, from Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture to a sing-along finale packed with all the prom favourites such as Jerusalem, Land of Hope and Glory and Rule Britannia. Accompanying the orchestra will be the superb soprano Denise Leigh, who will perform enchanting arias before bringing the finale to life - and the crowd to their feet – as the spectacular firework display lights up the summer sky. • For more information, or to book tickets for this spectacular night out, visit www. battleproms.com or call 01432 355 416.

Rutland County Show T

he 183rd Rutland County Show this year is on Sunday 31st May. The showground’s new location allows visitors to walk into the showground from Oakham town and with its two free shuttle busses from Uppingham and Oakham the gates should be busy. New to the showground this is a much improved professional ticketing system, bigger show layout, online sales and banks on site - these are certainly the signs of a growing show. “We are really keen to make the Rutland Show about Rutland people,” says Show Director Emma Dodds. “We have local groups, clubs and societies joining us this year in our new Rutland Ring as well as in the ‘Education Zone’, alongside our new ‘local Larder’ which is aimed at celebrating our home-grown food and drink producers – some spaces are still available in both these areas so do contact the show office for more details if you want to join them.” • Buy tickets at www.rutlandcountyshow. com or on the gate, which opens from 8.30am

Stamford Choral Summer Concert Trinity Methodist Church, Barn Hill, Stamford. Saturday 4th July 2015 at 7.30p.m. Programme includes Five Mystical Songs for Baritone soloist, chorus and piano by Ralph Vaughan Williams. Scenes from the Bavarian Highlands by Edward Elgar. Conductor Jeremy Jepson Accompanist Emily Smith • Tickets £10.00, Concessions £8.00 available from the Arts Centre. Accompanied Children 11 and under £1.00 STAMFORD LIVING JUNE 2015

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ACTIVITIES

National Gardens Scheme

Hundreds of private gardens open up to the public this year, from village cottages to stately homes, as part of the NGS. It’s a lovely way to have a peek at people’s plants while also raising money for charity. Alysia Anderson picks a bunch of gardens opening this month within easy reach of Stamford

THE ROOTS OF THE NGS The National Gardens Scheme’s history is closely connected with nursing, hence its support for charities such as Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie Cancer Care, the Carers Trust and Hospices UK. In 1859, a Liverpool merchant, William Rathbone, employed a nurse to care for his wife at home and, after her death, kept her on to care for poor people locally. He later raised funds to train and employ nurses to work in deprived areas. With the help of Queen Victoria and Florence Nightingale, this movement became a national voluntary organisation for District nursing. When its patron Queen Alexandra died in 1926, a fund was set up in her memory. A council member, Elsie Wagg, suggested raising money through the nation’s obsession with gardening by asking people to open their gardens for a modest entry fee. Thus the NGS was founded in 1927, with 609 gardens opening at ‘a shilling a head’. A year later, the district nursing organisation was officially named the Queen’s Nursing Institute, a name it retains today. Today, the NGS has donated over £45 million to nursing, caring and garden charities and features an annual ‘guest’ charity chosen from recommendations provided by NGS volunteers. In 2015, 3800 gardens will open to the public across the UK, with charges ranging from £2 to £8. Children usually go free and many gardens can be visited on alternative dates by arrangement with the owners.

HOW YOU CAN HELP “Gardens don’t need to be elaborate or large to be enjoyable and interesting for visitors” said Sally Grant, Lincolnshire County Organiser, who opens her own garden at Holly House near Boston. “As long as a garden is attractive, has character and is well-maintained, a small town garden can be as alluring for visitors as a big country one. It is helpful if garden owners are happy to offer refreshments (at a small charge if required) and to talk about their garden if asked. Gardens need only open once or twice a year and owners can also accept visits by direct arrangement, for individuals or groups, if desired”. Other ways you can support the NGS are by joining a county organising team, making a general donation or purchasing the NGS Yellow Book, published each February and featuring all the gardens opening that year. To find gardens close to Stamford, separate county leaflets for Lincolnshire, Leicestershire and Rutland, Northamptonshire and Cambridgeshire are available free from the tourist office in Stamford Arts Centre or you can check online at www.ngs.org.uk

PRIVATE PLANTINGS Opening in Thurlby on 13 June from 11-5pm is Roy Grundy’s garden at The Old Vicarage. Roy’s talented late wife Sue designed the garden but sadly did not see it completed. However, Roy dedicated himself to creating this attractive mix of yew hedges, wildlife and formal ponds, wildflowers and herbaceous beds, alongside a beautifully planted courtyard and herb garden. Over in Southorpe, Carl and Vanessa Brown open their two-acre garden surrounding Abbot’s Barn on 20 and 21 June from 2-5.30pm. The Browns maintain the garden using organic methods, providing a rich wildlife habitat. Join the resident Pekin bantams for free range of the wildflower meadow, orchard, wildlife pond, cutting flower garden, woodland, decked beach garden and courtyard garden with its croquet lawn. New to the NGS this year is the cottage garden of The Old Black Horse at Tansor. Here, roses ramble over arches and arbours alongside flowering shrubs and a vegetable potager. It opens on 14 June from 1-5pm or by arrangement for groups of more than ten until August. In nearby Oundle, Foxtail Lilly is a colourful informal garden with plenty of flowers for cutting and a barn shop. It opens on 21 June from 10.30am-5.30pm or by arrangement until July for groups of up to 40. Combine this with a visit on the same day to Jericho in Oundle’s marketplace. Inspired by Vita Sackville-West, the Aris family’s 100-metre walled garden is divided into a series of secret spaces, home to more than 50 species of roses, lavender, a chamomile lawn and a massive hornbeam hedge. Visits are also possible by

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EWG PHOTOS: FRED CHOLMELEY

Easton Walled Gardens

Easton Walled Gardens arrangement. Also open on Midsummer’s Day, from 2-6pm, are two large gardens in Braunston belonging to keen gardeners with different styles. Hill Top Farm has wonderful country views, a hazel walk and new wildlife pond while medieval Quaintree Hall is more formal, with a box parterre, walled garden and conservatory. CREAM TEAS AND BEES Tim and Stefa Hart, owners of Hambleton Hall, open their own garden at The Old Hall in Market Overton on 14 June between 2 and 6pm or by arrangement on weekdays until September. Light lunches or teas are served using Hambleton Bakery produce, although pre-booking is required. Set on a southerly ridge overlooking Catmose Vale, the garden is on four levels with areas enclosed by stone walls and yew hedges. Stroll along the mown paths of the shrubbery and drink in the views from the terrace with your cuppa. In the same village, on Thistleton Road, a group of gardens open on 20 June from 1.30-5pm. These range from tiny gardens overlooking the cricket green to the Stewarts’ wonderful ‘bee-friendly’ creation at number 59. “Over our 1.8 acres we have an orchard of apple, pear and soft fruit trees, a little arboretum, an ornamental shrubbery, beds full of perennials, a pond and beehives,” explained Andrew Stewart. On the Hambleton peninsula, Richard and Celia Foulkes open their lovely garden overlooking Rutland Water, with its Japanese garden and newly planted orchard, on 5 July from 2-5pm. Horticultural delights in spades are also found at the Old Vicarage in Burley, open on 25 June from 6-9pm or by

Easton Walled Gardens arrangement for groups. These include a walled garden with a vine house, two orchards, a lime walk, rose gardens and a wisteria avenue with a rill. In Empingham, the former summer palace of the Bishop of Lincoln opens its gardens on 28 June from 2-5.50pm. Prebendal House, beside the church, has four acres of mature gardens with topiary, extensive herbaceous borders and a water garden. In contrast, the tiny garden of Lavandar Cottage in nearby Nook Lane has a charming series of ‘rooms’ linked by rose and honeysuckle arches. Each is filled with scent and colour from lavender, clematis, alliums and roses. From June to August by arrangement, or on 12 July for the NGS between 11-5pm, Acre End in North Luffenham will make garden-lovers go green with envy. Jim and Mima Bolton have created an imaginative, organic garden with an Oriental courtyard, woodland garden, fruit, herbs and veg growing in abundance and many unusual trees and shrubs. Directions and contact details for all these gardens are in the relevant county leaflets or on the NGS website.

HALLS AND HOUSES The garden at Witham Hall School near Bourne, formerly a private home, was one of the first to open in 1927 for the NGS. This year it opens from 2-4pm on 21 June. Herbaceous borders, an ornamental pond, a paved rose-walk and a pupils’ wilderness area are surrounded by mature cedar parkland and sports fields. A few miles away, Grimsthorpe Castle (www. grimsthorpe.co.uk) holds its NGS day on 10 June from 11-5pm. Open to the public from Sunday to Thursday until the end of September, this baronial home of the Willoughby de Eresby family boasts 15 acres of formal and woodland gardens, a wildflower meadow, topiary and ornamental walled kitchen garden. Cycle hire, a café and a woodland playground provide plenty to amuse the whole family. Other stately homes that open to the public and are involved in the NGS include Deene Park (www.deenepark.com) and Boughton House (www.boughtonhouse.co.uk). The former runs evening group tours of the gardens, including supper, throughout June while Boughton has added a new 21st-century garden to its magnificent 18th-century landscaped grounds. Also enticing for the green-fingered are Easton Walled Gardens (www.eastonwalledgardens. co.uk) with their 12 acres of parkland and ‘forgotten’ gardens dating back four centuries. Meticulously restored by Ursula Cholmeley for over a decade, highlights here include a yew tunnel, David Austin roses, around 100 varieties of sweet peas, a decorative vegetable garden and a woodland walk. A special Sweet Pea week runs from 5-12 July. STAMFORD STAMFORD LIVING LIVING JUNE JUNE 2015 2015

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LOCAL HISTORY

Heritage at risk

Fotheringhay Church is in dire need of repair and it’s future is in jeopardy. Sue Dobson discovers why its preservation is so important

GLORIOUS landmark with its octagonal lantern tower and flying buttresses, the Church of St Mary and All Saints has stood on its hill above the banks of the River Nene at Fotheringhay since the 15th century. It has watched over the birth of a future English king and the trial and execution of a Scottish queen, seen the demise of a castle and suffered its own radical truncation, a result of Henry VIII’s Reformation. Defiant against all the odds for so long, the building’s current fragile condition means its future is in jeopardy. “So much so that English Heritage is adding it to its Heritage At Risk register and Oliver Caroe, the inspecting architect, has warned that it has reached tipping point and doing nothing is not an option,” Ros Clayton of The Friends of Fotheringhay Church tells me. Ros is chairing the Project Group tasked with raising the funds and managing the repairs necessary to secure the church’s future. Urgent repairs are needed to prevent water coming through the roof, to stop the windows falling into the churchyard and to carry out vital remedial stonework, which will cost at least £250,000. “The leading is breaking down in the roof and water comes through the widening cracks in heavy rain,” Ros explains. “The metalwork on the windows is corroding and damp is coming through the stone walls. Hoppers and down water pipes are cracked, gutters are leaking. Essentially the drainage is inadequate; water is soaking into the walls and not draining away. Stonework and ledges have to be repaired. We still don’t know the exact state of the roof,” she adds, indicating that in reality costs could soar. “King Richard III was born at Fotheringhay Castle in 1452; his mother, father and elder brother are buried in the church. There’s so much history here, it would be tragic if we didn’t preserve the building for the future.” ROYAL CONNECTIONS This fine example of perpendicular ecclesiastical architecture was once twice its present size, the ‘lost’ half being a large Collegiate Church, built to house a college of priests that Edmund Langley, 1st Duke of York, a younger son of King Edward III, had established at Fotheringhay Castle. At one time the most important Collegiate church in the country, it was demolished in the mid-16th century during the suppression of the monasteries. It’s hard to imagine now, but once Fotheringhay was a place of national importance, being directly linked to the royal families of both Scotland and England. In 1476, in a richly elaborate ceremony, King Edward IV had the bodies of his father, Richard Plantagenet, 3rd Duke of York and his younger brother Edmund, Earl of Rutland, both killed at the Battle of Wakefield and buried in a humble tomb at Pontefract, brought to Fotheringhay and re-interred at the Collegiate Church. Some 20,000 people are said to have attended the lavish dinner served in the castle and the king’s tents

and pavilions. Several of the buildings erected for their lodging in the village are still lived in today. Their tombs, together with that of Edward, the second Duke of York, killed at the Battle of Agincourt, were smashed when the church and chantry college buildings were demolished. On a visit to Fotheringhay in 1573, Queen Elizabeth I was so incensed at the desecration that she ordered their remains to be exhumed and reburied in the parish church. Two identical monuments erected at this time can be seen on either side of the altar wall. Edward IV is believed to have donated the richly carved and colourful pulpit. A medieval misericord seat from the Collegiate church tops the 15th century stone font. In the centre of a fine fan vault under the tower there’s the depiction of a Falcon and Fetterlock, badge of the House of York. BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE Ros Clayton says the plan is to raise funds both for the crucial repairs and to create the facilities needed to make the church a heritage and cultural centre and more of a community hub. “The acoustics are fabulous and the concerts, celebratory services and lectures held here are always well attended. But with the provision of toilets, a heating system and new disability ramps, we could do so much more.” The target of the Fotheringhay Church Appeal is £500,000. • To find out more about the church appeal visit the website http://friends-of-fotheringhay-church.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING JUNE 2015

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ART

FunnyHaHa@Burghley HouseSculptureGarden In 2015 things will take a comical turn in the Sculpture Garden with Funny Ha Ha: a sculptural exploration of the funny, surreal, strange and magical

ATURALLY, the title’s dual meaning refers to Burghley’s invisible deer fence that protects both the formal lawns and the sightlines to the house. A ha ha is a strange entity, it being almost the absence of a thing and this renders it somewhat absurd. So it is with sculpture, one of the major arts operating under the umbrella of Oscar Wilde’s assertion that all art is useless and in that uselessness lies its purpose. A brief walk around the sculpture garden is a delight that certainly supports Wilde’s belief. Things may soon be appearing that are somewhat out of the ordinary, with the forthcoming annual exhibition featuring many amusing and unusual pieces. These include a skip tank, a subterranean periscope, a cosmic space rock, a primeval wedge fallen from the sky, a crying sculpture and a magical space for younger children. For some artists in the show their sculptures are akin to comedy wrought in three dimensions. It is hard to look at the work of Kypros Kyprianou and not smile given his sculptures are a laugh out loud, pantomime slap around the chops. A sculptural double take is delivered by the absurd and funny skip tank Canary. Somewhat more mysterious are the magical surfaces of SKP1 and SKP2 Stealth, which defy identification. Highly polished, Louise Plant’s lyrical linear ribbons absorb and reflect their surroundings, becoming perceptibly less visible when the sun hits them. Consequently, they appear and disappear like the Chimera in the film Predator; a sort of sculptural cloak of invisibility. Far more evident is The Juggernaut of Nought by Richard Trupp, which has literally pierced the earth. The sleek wedge of steel SHEEP SKIN GLOVES, Paul Byatt

appears to have hurtled down from outerspace and planted itself in the ground with the ensuing impact. Jammed into the ground literally by the thin end of the wedge, Trupp’s sculpture is both archaic and cosmological. There will also be a menagerie of amusing creatures including Paul Byatt’s Sheep Skin Gloves. Sculptural sheep constructed from fleeces of hundreds of rubber gloves and rugby ball heads. Other animals include a funky tyre snail and The Lesser Tipping Dredger Bird by Donna Bramall. The artist has amusingly conferred it with a pseudo Latin name (Plasticus wastia) and describes it as “a very rare species belonging to the flamingo family and evolving from the murky depths of the Rochdale Canal. Its plumage is of a plastic nature, brightly coloured in appearance, with welly feet perfectly developed for wading. Their beaks are specially adapted to feed on litter, marshmallows or small children if they get too close!” The exhibition will also include a wind powered kinetic sculpture entitled The Love Tangle by Pete Rogers and various sculptures exploring the human psyche and emotional sphere. A prime example of this is John O’Connor’s Summer, which depicts a man, hands on hips, head thrust back, laughing hysterically. The visitor’s meandering journey through the realms of FUNNY HA HA should be mythical, magical and mysterious. All told, the 2015 exhibition at Burghley should raise a few laughs and eyebrows in equal measure. Michael Shaw • Open Daily, 11-5 until November the 1st Burghley House, Stamford, PE9 3JY 01780 752451 www.burghley.co.uk THE JUGGERNAUT OF NOUGHT, Richard Trupp

CANARY by Kypros Kyprianou

SKP1 and SKP2 STEALTH, Louise Plant

THE LESSER TIPPING DREDGER BIRD, Donna Bramall

THE LOVE TANGLE, Pete Rogers

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STAMFORD QUIRKS

Not Messing Around Words and Photography by Loo Loo Rose

H, how quiet Stamford is on a still Sunday morning. With nothing but the birds to keep me company on my walk, I am feeling at peace with this picturesque suburbia. There may not be a white picket fence in sight, but the people around here are certainly living the Stamford dream. My pleasant and fond thoughts of the area are suddenly interrupted by my having to hastily step over a large pile of dog mess; this is most certainly not the Stamford dream! I then notice something particularly un-Stamford presented on a little brown gate. The bold, black font reads, “Please do not throw your bag of dog mess into our hedge”. All that is looking down on me is an old neighbourhood watch sign (ironically). I look around; not a person or dog walker in sight. As I lean in closer in disbelief to re-read this startling note, I suddenly feel embarrassed. Should I be standing here? What if people think it was me? I am relieved to remember that I don’t have a dog, but nevertheless hastily start walking again. I barely get five steps ahead when I am stopped dead in my tracks once again by another printed sign, this time stuck to a lamppost (just in case you missed the first one). As I continue on, I imagine what sort of person would be capable of such a heinous crime. I picture a little old lady with a blue rinse, sniggering away to herself as she collects stranger’s dog waste with her lavender bags and launches them over the hedge. I only wish I knew her motive. If this is the case, she will have a field day today, as I again have to avoid a hot, steamy one on the pavement. The evidence is clear; there are a lot of dog walkers who use this route. I casually rotate my journey back down the same street in order to get another look at the victimised property. I walk past the nearby bus stop - could this mean witnesses? I am suddenly casual walker turned poo detective. I pass an ironic “no fouling” sign and am threatened with a hefty fine. The hedges supposedly protecting this property are extremely high; perhaps passersby see this as a challenge. Perhaps this poo launching exercise has become a local sport; an exclusive club only dog walkers know about. Ironically, the owners have grown these hedges so high to keep things out, but instead have unknowingly invited things in. No more than ten steps away, I spot a dog waste bin. Ten steps! A bin specifically designed for your dog’s mess. You’ve done the hard bit, the humiliating bit. You’ve bent down at your pet’s mercy and the warm log is in your hand. Is it really that hard to walk ten steps to put it in a bin? Why is the next natural stage to launch the baggy over a bush?! As I push open the signed gate, my imagination starts up again. Am I really about to knock on this stranger’s front door and have the most awkward conversation ever about

faeces? I picture an angry mob of dog walkers coming for me, swinging their baggies with evil grimaces. I notice the lawn could do with a trim, but no one could blame them for avoiding the front garden. I imagine a family on the school run; kids with lunchboxes held over their heads as they scarper out of the house and into the car for fear of unidentified flying poo bags. This feels like an extremely long drive way. Eventually I reach the doorway, where a friendly lady, who is slightly reluctant to discuss the disgusting subject matter, greets me and explains, “Since I have put the signs up I haven’t found any more dog mess. I am rather pleased about that! The signs have made dog walkers keep to the other side of the road.” I pressingly ask her how she would rate this crime out of ten. She replies with a six. (Really? I would have rated chucking faeces at least an eight!) I try to resist the one question popping into my head; why doesn’t she ever throw the bags back? So, dog walkers of Stamford, (you know who you are) next time you feel the urge to send a UFPB over this lady’s hedge, please consider the signs. I don’t know what the fine is for catapulting poo bags, but I’m sure the council won’t make it cheap. One final thought hits me as I continue my walk home. Stamford was recently voted the best place in England to live. If this is Stamford living, count me out!

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GET ACTIVE

Outdoors stuff to do this summer

Diving

Up in the Trees

Although you may not believe it, you can actually learn how to dive just outside of Peterborough at Gildenburgh Water or their other site at Dosthill Quarry which is near Tamworth. They offer a full range of PADI programmes for everyone from beginners to experienced divers. I know you will be thinking ‘Brrr are you having a laugh it’s a bit blinking chilly for diving in this country’ but if you think about it, you can always learn here in the UK and then when you do go somewhere exotic you will be ready to jump straight in and explore instead of wasting several days of your holiday learning! If you visit the company’s website: www. divein.co.uk they also offer diving holidays and rental equipment.

We have two Go Ape courses not too far away. The first being at Woburn Safari Park, which offers a great day out as you can have a look around the safari then pretend you are a monkey and swing through the trees. You can also visit Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire and pretend you are Robin Hood chasing after the Sheriff’s men whilst running across a rope ladder at dizzy heights. Prices are in the range of £30 for adults (that’s over 16 years) and Children (10-15 years) it is around £25 but you must be over 1.4 metres I’m afraid! Visit www.goape.co.uk for more detail and booking options.

Zorbing, Football Now, you may be aware that everyone got a bit carried away with zorbing and suddenly anyone with a field was having a laugh putting someone in an inflated plastic ball and rolling them down a hill for a bit of extra cash, absolutely brilliant business. Now, Birmingham (other destinations are available) has put a futuristic twist on the marvellous creation of putting oneself into a plastic ball and they have basically just chopped the bottom off so that you can use your legs and then introduced another ball, two goals and called it….wait for it…. Bubbleballerz Bubble Football – it’s edgy to say the least. A local group of lads went there on a stag do and have told me that no matter what football skills you have, these will not help you as your ‘friends’ will just bounce you out of the way if you look threatening. It sounds like a good combination of skills, aggression and hilarious bounces around the court as you rebound off each other. An excellent idea for group activities, visit the website: www. bubbleballerz. co.uk

Georgie Fenn tried out all sorts of familiar and unfamiliar activities so that you can take your pick for the summer

Sailing Why go further than Rutland Water, and join Rutland Sailing Club, when they have superb facilities for sailing. It offers everything that you could need to either learn, practise or just take the old girl out for a spin. You don’t have to join to just have a lesson; it is £125 for a 3hr lesson for two people: Call 01780 720292. It would be extremely biased of me to not mention the other options so a bit further out is Grafham Water sailing club which is also very impressive, offering expert instruction amongst other things including racing. Also within easy reach is Northampton Sailing Club at Pitsford Reservoir in Brixworth, who also offer RYA trained instructors for sailing, windsurfing and powerboat and rescue instruction.

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Skydiving, Sibson No doubt you have driven up the A1 and spotted all of the colourful parachutes in the sky one fine evening and thought ‘One day I will give it a go’ or maybe not….seems silly not to when Sibson Aerodrome is so close by. You can have a go as a Tandem from only £199, visit their website: www.skydivesibson.co.uk

Wake Boarding, Tallington I managed to escape from work one afternoon and have a go at Wake Boarding for very important research purposes for this article…. I took my friend along, Ted, who knows what he is doing and made it look really easy, so I was feeling a bit under pressure when it came to my turn. James and Chaz were really laid back about it which helped and they gave me lots of instruction and explained that it takes a while to get the hang of it so not to worry if I didn’t get it first time. I have to say, on the bar I thought I was incredible so after a few trips up and down the lake I got a bit full of myself and asked to go on the rope….which wasn’t so easy and after a couple of belly flops I decided to stick to the bar until next time. This summer I think Tallington is going to be buzzing, it is so much fun there and you can chill out in the hot tub afterwards (and warm up) and get a beer from the bar! Not only do they offer Wakeboarding coaching but they also provide lessons and facilities for: Climbing, Waterskiing, Jet Skiing, Sailing, Inflatables, Windsurfing, Canoeing, Kayaking, Paddle Boarding, Raft Building, Water Zorbing and Fishing… I also spied a banana boat if you’re into that. Who needs Ibiza! At only £25 for a go it makes a really good day out! To book visit www.tallington.com and if you’re at work make sure your laptop is on mute.

Kite Surfing, Hunstanton Kite Surfing is a big up-and-coming sport and something you should definitely be trying this summer. We are only around an hour and a half away from Hunstanton where the conditions are perfect to give it a go. Hunstanton Watersports are one of the most active BKSA kite surfing schools in the country offering a range of kite surfing lessons. Visit their website: www. hunstantonwatersports.com

Flyboarding, Tattershall Lake, Lincolnshire

It will take you around an hour to get to Tattershall Lakes (it’s the other side of Sleaford), then you can try flyboarding and look super awesome and probably take it up as a full-time hobby. You may have seen flyboarding on the TV and wondered, ‘Is that real’ because it’s a rather incredible spectacle. 158 Performance at Tattershall Lake have brought it to the UK and offer a 30 minute flight session for only £95. Call: 01778 341144

Segway, Huntingdon Segways are remarkably unsteady, wobbly, independent machines. I am almost 100% sure they think for themselves after having a go – mine decided to take me over a tree root and buck me off, I wasn’t really sure whether to get back on but you know what they say about getting back on the horse. Suffice to say I survived to tell the tale and now it’s your turn….if you dare. You can have a go pretty much anywhere these days and there are vouchers all over the internet for family outing or individual experiences…I recommend starting close to home at Grafham Water, Call 08453 193747.

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We bake a selection of delicious breads, savouries, cakes & desserts. Using traditional techniques and the finest ingredients we develop the real taste of our products, full of flavour with no preservatives or enhancers.

Shops: Exton Bakery, Market Harborough, Oakham, Stamford & West Bridgford

www.hambletonbakery.co.uk 54

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HOME & GARDEN

The Marquess of Exeter – A Family Affair B

Abigail Richardson talks to Brian Baker, his family and staff about their ever growing enterprise

RIAN is very well known to us Rutlanders – not just because he was Elton’s chef, but because of his reputation from The Fox and Hounds and now an astoundingly successful few years in Lyddington. A family business, Brian has most of his clan on board these days with his nephews serving out front with one living in, a sister who does the book keeping and a mother who is clearly very hands on - “She is an excellent cook”, says Brian and does all of my flowers including tending to the glorious orchids which are displayed in abundance. The Marquess, though, is so much more than a pub – it is also a 4 star AA hotel, with 17 en-suite bedrooms ranging from singles, twins and doubles to four posters, as well as family suites and the luxurious Bridal Suite with Jacuzzi bath. Wedding receptions are popular and Brian and team can also organise photography, flowers, music etc if required. The Marquess has always been a popular destination for lunch and dinner with its continuously changing menu designed around local produce. 75% of the menu changes on a weekly basis and sometime a daily one, depending on what the fish man brings that morning! Brian also breeds his own pigs and chickens, which enhance the menu, seasonally. The successful ‘Deli Shed’, run by the Marquess chefs, resides at the back of the Marquess. It opened in August 2014 and has been offering villagers a chance to shop locally and well as organically. Opening times are 11- 4pm and stock includes vegetables, free range eggs, Belvoir cordials and their own home-made products such as oils, jams, chutney, mustards quiches et al. Meats and cheeses are also available but to be ordered for delivery the next day. Brian also offers an outside catering service from office lunches and canapés, paella parties and buffets through to large private or corporate events. Never one to neglect his regulars, Brian is known to take coach loads of ladies on days out – I recently joined a party to The Melton Road in Leicester where Brian took us shopping for saris (looking splendid himself in an embroidered silk tunic), spices and cooking utensils. We lunched at Bobby’s restaurant on Belgrave Road, famous for its vegetarian food and Indian sweets. What a treat! He has also been known to lead ski parties and hosts regular cookery demonstrations as well! See on line for future events. • Contact: Marquess of Exeter, 52 Main St, Lyddington, Rutland LE15 9LT, Tel: 01572 822477 www.marquessexeter.co.uk Many thanks to: Georgi Mabee Photography, Email: info@georgimabee.com, www. georgimabee.com, Tel: 07738 053068 or follow Georgi on Facebook and Twitter.

STAMFORD LIVING JUNE 2015

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WRITING COMPETITION

Stamford Civic Society Creative Writing Competition Winners Stamford Civic Society and Stamford Living Magazine jointly sponsored a creative writing competition to encourage young people to think imaginatively about Stamford’s historic or contemporary buildings and its open spaces. Megan(R) and Emily (L)

HE winner was Megan Waites, who studies at Bourne Grammar School. She won a £100 Walkers book voucher. Her story – called Stories - is published in full on this page. She told SL: “I got the idea for the story when I was late for the bus one day…it just came to me out of the blue…coming from a rather plain town in the West Midlands, I have always found Stamford to be such a beautiful place to live.” Runner-up, receiving a £50 book voucher, was Emily Caseley who studies at Stamford High School. Her story, called The Rings of Time, was set in Burghley Park and delved into the past. She told SL: “We often walk in Burghley Park and the old trees there inspired me to think about the past.” The Judging Panel – comprising Nicholas Rudd-Jones, Miranda Rock, Helen Gould and Peter Hamilton (eminent scifi author) – were most impressed by the standard of entries.

Stories by Megan Waites “This town is full of stories. Like stars they shine even in darkness, most invisible. There are many you can see; they are everywhere. People. Lots of them. All different. All unique. And all with a story to tell. Some shout their stories for all the world to hear, others stay secret. Secret stories are always interesting. But the most interesting tales are the unseen ones. Hidden within the town itself. For me, history is there to read in the red bricks and cobblestones Stamford is built from. It’s not just bricks and mortar – the town is alive. It feels. It remembers. Not like we do, of course, which is why hardly anyone can see beyond their own lives in the here and now. They barely scratch the surface of Stamford. I can dig deeper, peel back the layers, relive times long gone. It’s not always a good thing. The past is full of pain. And as a teenager, I have plenty of that myself. Today, I’m late. Later than normal last-minute late. Taking a bus to school still feels like an alien concept to me. The bus is metal, unnatural. I can’t sense it, can’t connect. Besides, the power is linked to the town. At school, I cannot access it. I have to concentrate on my future. I don’t want to grow up. Maybe that’s why I forced myself to rush the walk into town. No singing today. Already, I’m late. I can’t afford to miss this bus as well. The pavement under my feet crackles with anxiety. My fingers brush the moss covered wall, electricity sparking through the bricks. The buildings I pass are holding their breath. Watching. Waiting. Apprehension sweeps along the cobblestones as I march along. The town is unsettled. It makes me uneasy. A car horn accuses me as I run across Little Casterton junction, distracted and still half asleep. My foot catches on a tree root, and I have to concentrate again on the time. Time. There’s never enough of it. I wish I could go and read on the meadows, watching the river flow past as languid and tranquil as my mind. But there is not enough time. The sun is warm above me, even as a February breeze makes me shiver. If I close my eyes, I can almost feel the grass beneath me, the aliveness of it filling me with life. However, my eyes stay open and fixed on the path ahead, unable to daydream when school is waiting for me. The colours of my fantasy fade into the mundane buildings – churches, houses, shops of every variety. I leave the church spires behind as I near the Rec, shimmering with ghosts. I catch a whiff of long eaten burger, and snatches of carnival music. Then it’s gone, and the bus stop is in sight. Still, I rush past people making their slow way into town. Stamford does that to you. Fills you with the slowness of a summer’s day, peaceful and calm. I can breathe out here. I reach the bus stop with ten minutes to spare, dropping my bag with a sigh of relief. My eyes close, and I relax. I want to go deeper. My breathing evens out and I fall through time. It’s nothing like sci-fi tells you. The Doctor Who colours and noises, the TARDIS – it’s not real. This power is. The caterwauling of an air-raid siren; the rattle of horse-drawn carriages; the smell of horse manure; the town crier; a baker selling his wares; the taste of fresh bread; the stench of death as plague victims are tossed onto a cart. They all come crashing together in one great crescendo of history, right here on North Street. This town, its buildings, its history. But most of all, its people. The baker’s assistant turns and looks straight at me. He smirks and winks, and I blush. It’s not often a boy looks at me like that, even if he is over a hundred years older than me. He shouldn’t be able to see me, outside this apothecary. I’m not really there – I’m here, by the bus stop. Time is strange like that. The sounds of the past fade as I come back. The familiar streets, the smell of the Chinese down the road ground me in the here and now. The blue of Delaine comes into view. With the boy’s face clear in my mind, I smile, get on the bus, and leave Stamford behind.”

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Saturday all day • Alfresco dining

8/9 St Paul’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2BE www.themadturk.co.uk 01780 238001 Monday to Thursday - 18.00 till 23.00 Friday 17.30 to 23.00 Saturday 12.00 till 23.00

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EATING OUT

The Crown A great place to relax with perfectly prepared food that’s locally sourced. Reviewer: Katy Burrows

UR workday worries melted away as soon as we stepped inside the Crown, with its welcoming ambiance on a Wednesday evening. After a warm greeting from Monica King, the Front of House Manager, we were shown to our table – a cosy booth in the corner of the atmospherically lit Red Cow restaurant. While perusing the menu, we wound down with a glass of Prosecco; I have to admit, I just couldn’t resist the ‘buy one bottle and get £10 off the next’ offer! After much deliberation over the mouth-watering options, we made a beeline for the mains – Fillet of Sea Bass for me, and one of the seasonal Asparagus Specials for my fellow foodie, Nick. Seasonal and local produce are a key part of the Crown’s menu and Luke Marsh, the Head Chef, sources many ingredients from the Tallington farm where owner Michael Thurlby grew up. Freshly baked bread and butter were provided on the house – always a nice touch, and we had just the right amount of time to soak up the atmosphere before our food arrived. Nick’s Tallington asparagus was

accompanied by Parma ham, a perfectly poached egg and hollandaise sauce. It was deliciously light but filling, leaving just enough room for a second course – always a winner in my book. Meanwhile, my sea bass was impeccably seasoned with beautifully crisp skin and came with Parmesan gnocchi, peas, pancetta, gem lettuce and baby onions. The flavours were harmonious and well balanced, a bit like my renewed state of mind – the cares of the day now long forgotten. On to the desserts, and while Nick knew what he was having without taking a second glance, I deliberated over the menu yet again. My sweet tooth swayed me into having the Hot Brioche Doughnuts on Monica’s recommendation and Nick went for the British Cheese Board. The doughnuts were served with vanilla and raspberry dipping sauces and Nick’s all-British cheese board came with an eye-catching

selection of biscuits and freshly made chutney. Both dishes were delectably shareable, epitomising what the Crown’s all about – a great place to relax and unwind in good company, sharing well-cooked and satisfying local food. • The Crown Hotel, All Saints’ Place, Stamford, PE9 2AG Tel: 01780 763136 www.kneadpubs.co.uk The Red Cow restaurant is now serving food all day on Saturday and Sunday, from 12pm right through to 9pm. Monday to Friday, food is served from 12pm to 2.30pm and 6pm to 9pm

EXPERIENCE OF AN EARTHQUAKE

First Hand: TheNepal Earthquake Cally Mintern, who lives in Stamford, was volunteering with the VSO when the earthquake struck last month

HAT comes to mind when you think of Nepal? A colourful, peaceful nation of prayer flags, expeditions to Everest and the Gurkhas? Emerald green rice-terraces and weather-beaten smiles? Or a royal family massacred, a bloody civil war, poverty and political turmoil… a deadly earthquake that has made what was a hard life for so many people, impossible. When the earthquake struck, I was volunteering with VSO in Baglung, 277km west of Kathmandu. I was living in a village called Dhimi and sharing a simple home with my Aama, Buwa, buffalo named Georgina, a few too many bedbugs and my Nepali counterpart Nikki. At midday we were facilitating a plastic recycling training programme for thirty women. As an ex-geography student, at first I was fascinated by what was happening, but fascination soon turned to fear. News that the epicentre was in Kathmandu spread and many

villagers had family living there. Phone signals began to fail and desperation for news heightened with each aftershock. Panicked rumours warned of bigger shocks to come, so that night many slept outside. The next day, everybody gathered to watch the news and my gentle Aama remained absolutely Cally & Nikki transfixed. Hearts collectively broke at footage of people and homes, temples and memories turned to rubble. After five long days, Nikki and I were able to leave Dhimi for Kathmandu. Thankfully, her family survived. I naively hoped to join the relief effort, so when I learned that instead I would be flown back to the UK, I cried. Being back in Stamford feels like I have been dropped into a

parallel universe of calm and privilege: difficult to appreciate, because when I left Nepal, I left my friends and my heart behind. I hope to send at least £300 directly to Nikki’s family, to help them re-build their home in Goldhunga. I also hope to send at least £300 to my project coordinator at VSO Nepal, who is working on a communitybased project in Dhading district. The people there have not received any relief materials. The team plans to build 30 temporary houses before the onset of the rainy season and provide food for the poorest families. • If anyone feels compelled to support me in either campaign, I urge you to get in touch. pascalemintern@gmail.com Tel: 01780 751998 – Mob: 07753 391885 STAMFORD LIVING JUNE 2015

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Summer garden menu Sandwiches Fish finger and tartar sauce £8.95 BBQ chicken and mozzarella £7.95 Sundried tomato, ricotta and pesto £7.95 Steak mince burger and tomato relish served in a brioche bun £10.95 All served with skinny fries and house salad Sharing platters ½ Roast Peking duck Sesame pancakes, marinated cucumber, mushroom and chilli ketchup and onion bhaji Or ½ Grilled garlic lobster Jersey royals, grilled asparagus and gambas Or BBQ Chicken wings Pork belly ribs, red cabbage slaw, corn bread, chipotle sauce and Cajun wedges All platters £13.50 per person Light lunch Anti-Pasto plate Marinated artichoke, sun dried tomatoes and mozzarella £11.50

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

Vegetarian mezze platter Hummus, olives, tomato and red pepper £9.50 Crispy soft shell crab Peanuts, lime, mango and sushi rice £7.95 Some dishes contain allergens, if you have ANY FOOD ALLERGIES please make us aware when ordering.

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lunch RIVER on the

take a break and enjoy the taste of the orient

lunch mon - sat: 12:00 - 2:30pm sun (buffet): 12:00 - 3:30pm

dinner sun - thurs: 5:30 - 10:30pm 5:30 - 11:00pm fri & sat

01733 315 702 www.east-restaurant.co.uk

Upper Deck, Charters, Town Bridge, Peterborough PE1 1FP

WWW.STAMFORDWINEBAR.CO.UK

“WINE MAKES ALL THINGS POSSIBLE.” — GEORGE R.R. MARTIN, THE MYSTERY KNIGHT

Come and enjoy a glass from our wide range of exquisite wines, in the best summer garden in town.

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EATING OUT

Eating Alfresco in & around Stamford We really are very lucky these days with the number of great outdoor eating spaces in our region, many with great views too. Nicholas Rudd-Jones took a look around IN STAMFORD

The Crown Hotel, Stamford All Saints’ Place, Stamford, PE9 2AG Tel: 01780 763136 www.thecrownhotelstamford.co.uk he view from the Crown Courtyard is amongst the best in Stamford, looking towards All Saints’ Church and the brick chimney of the old brewery. Good food, great ambience and outstanding beer in the heart of Stamford, Britain’s Best Place to Live. How much better could it get?! (see our food review on Page 59)

The Mad Turk 8/9 St. Paul’s St, Stamford, PE9 2BE Tel: 01780 238001 www.themadturk.co.uk he Mad Turk is very much a family affair, and the food is fresh, well-cooked and authentic, with all the meat cooked on a charcoal fire and good vegetarian choices. The mezes make brilliant starters. The ambience is warm and friendly and the service has become highly proficient. The garden is a magical experience, especially in the dusk when the candles are lit. Not to be missed.

Fine Food Café & Restaurant 37 St Mary’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2DF Tel: 01780 754222 www.thefinefoodstore.com he ‘secret garden’ out the back is a real find (you need to go down the passage to find it). Order at the counter and head down to the garden, where you feel totally secluded from the hustle and bustle of St Mary’s. Plus it’s a sun-trap. Lunch here is especially good, Mediterranean-influence and delicious. See our fashion shoot in the garden this month

The George Hotel, Stamford 71 High St, St Martin’s, Stamford, PE9 2LB Tel: 01780 750750 www.georgehotelofstamford.com ating in the Courtyard on a summer’s day with good companions is just about the closest you can get to heaven on earth”. A satisfied courtyarder.

“E

No. 3 The Yard, Stamford 3 Ironmonger St, Stamford, PE9 1PL Tel: 01780 756080 www.No3TheYard.co.uk new menu that will be running throughout the summer months during Sunday lunchtime service alongside the normal menu. Chef Tim Luff explained: “We wanted to offer our diners something we think is unique in this area, a Fire Bowl BBQ. We will be cooking to order dishes such as spatchcocked chicken marinated in lemon, rosemary and yogurt, served with quinoa, roasted new potatoes, pickled radish salad, sea bass en papillote steamed on the BBQ in fennel, onions, peppers, lemon and white wine served with quinoa and heritage tomato & basil salad and Bourbon baby back ribs as well as vegetarian options.”

The Wine Bar Stamford 10 St Paul’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2BE Tel: 01780 757 844 www.stamfordwinebar.co.uk he Wine bar has become the ‘go to’ place for meeting friends, with great wines, cocktails and light bites. The exquisiteness of the interior is more than matched by the superlative outdoor space, beautifully created just a couple of years ago.

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William Cecil Hotel St Martin’s, Stamford, PE9 2LJ Tel: 01780 750070 www.thewilliamcecil.co.uk n a fine day, the terrace is a delightful spot, immaculately presented and full of sunshine. A stroll through the garden is also a pleasure.

Exeter Arms, Easton-on-the Hill 21 Stamford Road, Easton-on-the Hill, PE9 3NS Tel: 01780 756321 www.theexeterarms.net here is a stunning conservatory area and huge courtyard out the back to enjoy the fine weather.

NEAR TO STAMFORD

Barnsdale Hall Hotel North Shore, Rutland Water, LE15 8AB Tel: 01572 757901 www.barnsdalehotel.co.uk arnsdale Hall Hotel boasts some of the most beautiful views of Rutland Water and the surrounding countryside. Everyone is welcome to use the Brasserie, not just the members, and its terrace has views over the water.

Barnsdale Lodge The Avenue, Rutland Water, LE15 8AH Tel: 01572 724678 www.barnsdalelodge.co.uk arnsdale Lodge really does feel like home from home, with friendly and attentive staff and a relaxed feel. The cooking is to a high standard and is good value for money. The courtyard is a sun trap in the good weather, for a meal, a drink or afternoon tea. The conservatory is being expanded to provide even more space to relax in.

Jackson Stops Inn, Stretton Rookery Lane, Stretton, LE15 7RN Tel: 01780 410237 www.thejacksonstops.com he Jackson Stops Country Inn has a wideranging and interesting menu that is at the very top end of pub food; in fact it’s probably best to think of it as a restaurant with a ‘pubby feel’, typified by the delightful front bar and the sprinkling of locals using it as their watering hole. A delightful spot to eat outside in the front garden, so tranquil and inviting.

Six Bells, Witham-on-the-Hill Witham on the Hill, PE10 0JH Tel: 01778 590360 www.sixbellswitham.co.uk he Six Bells is now light, charming, and as welcoming as the flowers in spring. Owners Jim and Sharon – whose impressive track record includes the excellent Beehive pub in Peterborough – have poured untold time, money and love into the Six Bells’ refurbishment. The space outside the front is welcoming and hospitable.

The Olive Branch, Clipsham Main St, Clipsham, LE15 7SH Tel: 01780 410355 www.theolivebranchpub.com ake the most of any glorious weather and go for lunch on the beautiful Terrace at The Olive Branch. Sit under the vine covered pergola, with views across the fields’. Early Evening Tapas Sun-Thu 6.30-8.30 looks especially appealing. 2 dishes for £10, 3 for £14.

White Hart, Ufford Main St, Ufford, PE9 3BH Tel: 01789 740250 he White Hart is popular, and deservedly so, for it offers top quality, friendly service and very good value. The outside area is extensive and delightful, and many years ago on a weekend up from London was the reason I fell in love with this region

Wicked Witch Bridge Street, Ryhall, PE9 4HH Tel: 01780 763649 www.ryhallwitch.co.uk rilliant Head Chef Dameon Clarke has increasingly perfected the balance between clever, complex recipes and simple, robust pleasurable fare. Many people are voting this their favourite place to eat at the moment anywhere in the region. The garden has a view to die for over Ryhall Meadows, and is maturing well having been planted a couple of years ago.

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10-18th July 2015

A professional music festival featuring an eclectic mix of traditional, international & classical repertoire.

www.oundlefestival.org.uk

or call 01832 274734

Stamford School Main Field Supporting

Thursday 23rd July Friday 24th July

MATT HAMBO XI VS

HELP FOR HEROES XI ENGLAND MASTERS XI VS

LOCAL LEGENDS XI

ACTIVITIES

Followed by After the Storm Followed by The Tom Betts Band

(INCLUDED IN TICKET PRICE)

Battle of Britain memorial ypast Gladiator duel 45m assault course Golf driving test Large slide Football shootout Under 7 bouncy castle Bungee run Climbing wall Cage cricket Event Partners

www.BGLsportbash.co.uk 64

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DIARY DATES

What’s On Some of the best entertainment in the region this month. Tuesday 2 June to Saturday 22 August EVENT: Stamford Shakespeare Festival Choose between ‘Henry V’, ‘Romeo and Juliet’ and ‘Tom Jones’ performed by Stamford Shakespeare Company on their beautiful, all weather stage in the grounds of Tolethorpe Hall. Bring a picnic to enjoy in the grounds or book a pre-performance buffet. Contact the Box Office at www.stamfordshakespeare.co.uk or call 01780 756133

Saturday 6 and Sunday June LIVE MUSIC: Status Quo in Concert and the 80s Greatest Hits Show Rick Parfitt, Francis Rossi, Andy Brown, John Edwards and Leon Cave will be entertaining fans and ‘Rocking All Over the World’ on Saturday 6 June at the annual summer, open air concert within the beautiful grounds of Burghley Park. The following evening you can revisit the sounds of the eighties with the original artists including Toyah Wilcox, Bananarama, Midge Ure, Curiosity Killed the Cat and Odyssey. What summer weekends were made for. Burghley Park Tickets for each show are £39.95 available at www.livepromotionsconcerts.co.uk Saturday 6 June 7.30pm MUSIC: The Dolly Parton Story Celebrating the life and music of Dolly Parton, this is described as ‘much more than a tribute show’ by Andrea Pattison. Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre Tickets £17 Tel: 01780 766455 www.corn-exchange-theatre.co.uk Saturday 6 June, 7.30pm CONCERT: Simeon Wood Multi-instrumentalist composer Simeon will perform on flute, panpipes, whistles, the bass flute and the didgeridoo. A wonderful blend of light classics, music from the shows, ballads and Celtic pieces interpreted throughout with his infectious humour. Trinity Methodist Church, Stamford More information at www.stamfordmethodistchurch.org.uk

Wednesday 3 June, 7.30pm THEATRE: The Picture of Dorian Gray Fresh from the West End, European Arts Company brings a thrilling adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s only novel. Set in the decadent world of Victorian London, a beautiful, narcissistic young man called Dorian Gray becomes infatuated by the portrait that Basil Hallward has painted of him. He makes a Faustian pact that he will remain forever young while the picture grows old. A theatrical event that combines drawing room comedy and Gothic horror. Stamford Arts Centre Tickets £12 Tel: 01780 763203 www.stamfordartscentre.com Saturday 6 June to Sunday 28 June, 10.30am to 5pm EXHIBITION: Still Life and Ceramics Featuring work by Mary Jane Alexander and Sam Hall. Robert Fogell Gallery Further information Tel: 01780 762099

Tuesday 9 June, 6.45pm FILM: London Road (15) To celebrate the release of the film adaptation of London Road, the National Theatre presents an unmissable premiere event live from London. The screening will feature an exclusive Q&A with the key cast and crew following the screening of the film. Stamford Arts Centre Tickets £14 Tel: 01780 763203 www.stamfordartscentre.co.uk Wednesday 10 to Sunday 14 June FAMILY SHOW: The Wizard of Oz This enchanting family musical is based on the 1939 Oscar winning original movie, containing all the beloved songs and iconic characters. The Wizard of Oz is a fantastic treat for all the family with special effects, spectacular costumes and superb choreography. Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre Tickets from £12, family ticket from £40 (2 adults and 2 children) Tel: 01780 766455 www.corn-exchange-theatre.co.uk Thursday 11 June, 7.30pm LECTURE: Germaine Greer – The Disappearing Woman Forty years ago it seemed that women were about to take their rightful place in the world. Today, when you open the newspaper you find that news is still made by men in suits. Germaine Greer claims that as soon as girls accept the size, role and shape of adult women they begin to disappear. This event gives the audience the unique chance to hear Germaine attempt to explain why and to suggest ideas for change, as well as answering those burning questions - serious or light hearted. Expect this unique close encounter with Germaine to be candid, enlightening, and highly entertaining. Stamford Arts Centre Tickets £15 Tel: 01780 763203 www.stamfordartscentre.com STAMFORD LIVING JUNE 2015

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DIARY DATES

What’s On Saturday 13 June, 10am to 4pm EVENT: Edenham Extravaganza Day A fun day is planned to include games, bouncy castle, retail stalls, pony rides, tombola, afternoon teas BBQ and much more. Edenham Village Hall and Field

Saturday 20 June, 8pm CONCERT: Stamford Chamber Orchestra A concert by this ever popular orchestra featuring guest mezzo-soprano Ciara Hendrick. Pieces by Gluck, Berlioz and Mozart. Stamford Arts Centre Tickets £12.50 Tel: 01780 763203 or at www.stamfordartscentre.com

Saturday 13 June, 7.30pm CONCERT: Peterborough Voices Summer Concert The award-winning Peterborough Voices return to Stamford for their annual summer concert before heading to London to perform with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at St John’s Smith Square in August. Don’t miss this opportunity to see them perform highlights from their repertoire including choral favourites, ballads and songs from the shows. Directed by William Prideaux and accompanied by Matthew Jones. Stamford Arts Centre Tickets £12 Tel: 01780 763203 www.stamfordartscentre.com

Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 June EVENT: Midsummer Fair Celebrating a 1960s theme this year this is a free family event featuring a street market, funfair, games, a flypast, dog show, classic cars, barbeque, beer festival, Morris men and much more. Castle Bytham All information at www.misummerfair.co.uk

Friday 19 to Sunday 21 June EVENT: Rolls Royce Enthusiasts Rally The highlight of the Rolls Royce Enthusiasts Club year is the Annual Rally and Concourse, taking place this year at Burghley. This is the largest Rolls-Royce and Bentley gathering anywhere in the world and makes a spectacular sight. The whole event spans a weekend, with trade and other stands, an auction of cars and automobilia, as well as class judging and a parade of prize winning cars. During the same weekend will be a Fine Food Market held in the Courtyard. Come and meet around thirty local suppliers in a celebration of local produce with handmade cheeses, artisan breads, organic vegetables, luxury sweet treats and rare breed meats between 10am and 4pm. Burghley Park Both events are free to enter. Saturday 20 June, 7.30pm MUSIC: Richard Digance With a truly spectacular reputation and having supported Steve Martin, Robin Williams and played a duet with Brian May of Queen in his time, Richard Digance is a rare performer – respected by comedians and musicians alike. A multi award winning show. Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre Tickets £16.50 Tel: 01780 766455 www.corn-exchange-theatre.co.uk

Wednesday 24 June, 10.30am to 4.30pm COURSE: Growing Exotic Vegetables This course is aimed at more adventurous gardeners, and covers a wide range of edible plants you may not have thought possible to grow in the UK such as chickpeas, soya beans, tomatillos, sweet potatoes, pepino and Chinese keys. Recipe suggestions and a list of seed and plant suppliers provided. Barnsdale Gardens Cost is £74, and includes lunch and entry to the Gardens for the rest of the day. Pre-booking essential www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk or Tel: 01572 813200

Sunday 28 June, from 11am EVENT: Victorian Cricket Refreshment stalls, tug of war contest, and an amazing raffle. Cricket played under ‘quirky’ rules with teams in Victorian dress raising money with proceeds to charities supported by Rotary. A Battle of Britain flypast is also planned Admission is free Stamford Meadows

Early next month…. Saturday 4 July EVENT: The 11th Annual Battle Proms Concert The night will once again include all of the favourite highlights such as a full orchestral programme, Spitfire display and breath taking fireworks, Napoleonic mounted cavalry, traditional fairground stalls, two hundred live cannons and picnic in the park atmosphere with a sing-along ‘Last Night of the Proms’ finale. Tickets are £36 or £40 on the day (subject to availability). Burghley Park All information at www.burghley.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING JUNE 2015

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STAMFORD PEOPLE

WoodWords What do several Stamfordians, The Antiques Road Show and the Scottish Parliament have in common? Rachel Henry finds out

HE link is master wood-carver Glyn Mould, who runs classes and summer schools locally, and who, last summer, appeared on the Road Show with his massive carved chair depicting Messrs Cameron, Brown and Clegg, all sans trousers, at the time of the expenses scandal. That chair – which Glyn took three months out to complete “because I wanted to say something” – was snapped up by a private buyer for more than £10,000 and now sits in a mansion overlooking the parliament north of the border. Glyn’s students are rather more local. Stamfordians Derek Eagle, Pat Barton and Nicola Dunkin are just three of many who attend his classes. Derek first went along18 years ago. "It helps that all the carvers are very, very nice people," he says. What has he created? "My name’s Eagle, so I’ve done an eagle in the round, and dozens of reliefs and statues." Retiree Pat Barton, whose father was himself a talented carver, is another long-time student. "I inherited my father's tools," she says. "Now, I'm working on a relief of the White Cliffs of Dover." Glyn approves: "That’s the joy of working with wood, you can carve anything you like." I visited Glyn at Sacrewell Farm, just off the A47. It’s idyllic. The workshop is just beyond the farm's cafe and shop, up past a little Shetland pony and a glorious peacock. The workshop is quiet, no class today, and there’s a smell of fresh wood (Glyn’s favourite is sweet chestnut). Among the carvings scattered around in various stages of completion are a beautiful little kettle with a tiny, lifelike wren perched on its edge. And a Biblical scene for a church to replace one destroyed by a vandal. The Victorian tool box which originally attracted the attention of the Road Show, and

which led to the appearance of the expenses chair, sits in a corner. It feels very peaceful, possibly because the quickest thing that happens here is the kettle boiling for a cup of tea. This slow pace is something Glyn, 50, has always loved. He started carving at 13, made it his life’s work at 18, and started teaching in 1984. “Wood carving is in our psyche,” he says, “we see it in churches and old buildings – “but," he adds, “these days we just don’t see it in the high street.” Which is a shame, because what Glyn and his students create are works of art – the antiques of the future. He has just passed his own half-century, and much of his work will last for hundreds of years. He has carved ceiling roses and rope moulding for the Palace of Westminster as well as family coats of arms, sports trophies, memorials. And he’s passionate about gardens too: ‘Why not have a few carved animals and birds around?” He certainly isn’t short of commissions, such as a painted rose relief for the Stamford Floral Arrangement Society, church carvings, or village signs – his sign for Elton, where he runs another class, has signalled the village boundary for 32 years. Personalised wedding presents are a favourite. The little wren and kettle will cost £400, but a set of four initialled egg-cups, say, is just £10. Carving is not just Glyn's living, though. He is dedicated to reintroducing the craft. "It fell away with the First World War. It’s still in stately homes and churches, of course, but it would be good to get it back into everyday buildings where people can see it, and want it for themselves.” Perhaps, slowly, it’s working. His classes and summer schools are popular. “Once people come, they tend to stay. There’s a lovely, easy social side to it - and anyone can come along.”

Glyn Mould So who does attend? “Oh, all sorts ... the clergy, retired policemen, teachers, all walks of life, and all ages.” His pupils' subject matter varies enormously too. Stamfordian Nicola Dunkin, who has also attended one of Glyn’s summer schools, has created several "mother and baby head" carvings. "Woodworking is uniquely personal," she says. "There’s something magical in getting a lump of wood and transforming it." It seems a very peaceful occupation, I say later, to Pat Barton. She laughs: “Oh yes ... and it’s very good if you want to get rid of any frustrations, you can get hold of a nice mallet and bash things.” And maybe, one day, Derek’s eagle, Pat’s Dover cliffs, and Nicola’s mother-and-child works will find their way on to a future Antiques Road Show? "Of course they could," says Glyn. “Wood lasts for ever.” • Details of Glyn’s work, classes and 2015 summer schools (in July and August) can be found at http://www. glynmouldwoodcarvingschool.co.uk - or call him direct on 07753 298501.

STAMFORD LIVING JUNE 2015

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