Stamford Living May 2017 by Best Local Living

Loving where we live!

STAMFORD LIVING www.stamfordliving.co.uk

Fashion designs: Wonder of Wool

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Stamford Architects

A wealth of skills and innovation

Camping, Glamping ... even Champing

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Making the right choice MAY 2017 ÂŁ1.50

Food/Fashion/Health & Beauty/Home & Garden/Lifestyle

9 771478 377017

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

STAMFORD LIVING

May Contents www.stamfordliving.co.uk

UPDATES, SHOPPING

Our train service We are very lucky to have such a useful train service running through Stamford, reaching Stansted and points east in one direction and Birmingham and points west the other way. And the station itself has recently been elegantly refurbished, so catching a train also means a burst of architectural pleasure. Now, a plea for the final piece of icing on the cake to make it all perfect – a twice-hourly service. We would stop driving and parking in Peterborough to go to London, safe in the knowledge that when we return at an unpredictable time there will be a train in only a few minutes. At the moment, the prospect of waiting in Peterborough for up to an hour having just missed the connection (they like to tease with the train pulling out just as the London train pulls in) is too much to bear. If you feel strongly about this, write to East Midlands Trains at getintouch@eastmidlandstrains.co.uk

10 Icons of the 80s, Rockingham Horse Trials, Healthy Hearing Open Day 30 Anna Couture, Rutland County Show, Stephenson Smart 35 UPP Property, Wildcats Academy 38 New hairdresser at Rhinos, Pipewell Hall, the Really Useful Team 41 Easton Gala Weekend, Catherine Headley Exhibition, Rutland Cycling 43 Emma Cutmore, Weaver UK, Beanstalk 56 Stamford Poetry Stone, SAMS Musical, Buckles 75 Update: Secret Source, Rockblock Summer Adventures

Nicholas Rudd-Jones

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Editor

7 Purls of Wisdom 26 Health & Beauty: Hair Trends

@StamfordLiving1 Stamford Living Editor and Publisher 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 01780 482828 claudia.bayley@btinternet.com Advertising Copy Rachel Beecroft 01780 765320 rachel@locallivingdesign.co.uk Head of Design Steven Handley steve@locallivingdesign.co.uk Designers Sarah Compton inkdesign@virginmedia.com Calum Handley 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 Subscriptions; annual rate £25 (UK only). Please write to the Publisher at Local Living Ltd, with £25 cheque payable to Local Living, or go online to www.bestlocalliving.co.uk Cover photo this month: View from St Mary’s spire, by Lee Hellwing. Follow him @ LeeHellwing

HOME & GARDEN Stamford Architects Through the Keyhole: Elton property Stamford Auction Rooms Harry James Jarvis, designer maker Pet Page: re-homing Sophie Allport’s 10th anniversary and shop opening 65 Hunter’s Interiors new online store 14 18 23 32 48 55

FOOD & DRINK

71 Olive Branch recipe 72 Trout and Barnsdale Lodge trout recipe 76 Chef Profile: Dameon Clarke at the Wicked Witch 79 Eating Out: King’s Arms in Maiden Lane, Zada Restaurant

ACTIVITIES, CULTURE, LEARNING & BUSINESS 36 44 50 59 62 68 80 86 88

Urban Rambles: a walk round York Childcare providers in Stamford Camping, Glamping, even Champing locally March to the Grave Stamford Arts centre Stamford Mental Health Forum Trampolining for fitness Ask Leo: Walled Gardens What’s On

PEOPLE & PLACES 83 Richard Coles 94 Stamford People: Alder Vets

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM

Open: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-3pm

Tel: 01780 654321 Email: sales@classicstamford.co.uk www.classicstamford.co.uk 12 St Leonardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Street, Stamford, Lincs PE9 2HN 4

WE MAKE WATCHES FOR WINNERS

Austin Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor - Winner 2014

Sir Mark Todd - Winner 2015

Bill Levett - Winner 2016

LOOMES CHAMPIONSHIP AT ROCKINGHAM INTERNATIONAL HORSE TRIALS 19TH, 20TH, 21ST MAY 2017 www.robertloomes.com - 01780 481319

Richardson Thompson Leach 164_Layout 1 26/01/2016 13:42 Page 1

The Hayloft - Essendine £850,000

The Hayloft is a family home extending to approximately 3,775 sqft. This superb conversion offers a fantastic layout with a bedroom wing comprising of 4 double bedrooms, all with en-suite facilities, as well as a further double bedroom to the first floor with en-suite shower room. It features an impressive kitchen breakfast room with walk in pantry and large utility room. Bi folding doors from the kitchen breakfast give access to an enclosed courtyard ideal for al fresco dining. The Hayloft is complete and ready to move into.

Lenton

Price £350,000

Situated in rolling countryside a rare opportunity to acquire an attractive range of former Ancaster Estate Farm Buildings with Full Planning Permission. The barns are in a traditional L –shape configuration with brick single storey and a double height stone barn all The Hayloft - Essendine £850,000 The Hayloft a family home extending to approximately 3,775 accommodation sqft. This superb conversion offers with ispantile roofs. The proposed willa fantastic layout with a bedroom wing comprising of 4 double bedrooms, all with en-suite facilities, as well as a further double bedroom to the first floor with en-suite shower room. It features an impressive kitchen breakfast room with walk in pantry and large utility room. Bi folding doors from the kitchen breakfast give to ansize enclosed courtyard ideal for alwith fresco dining. The Hayloft is to complete and ready to move into. provide a access good family home opportunity retain much of the original charm and character of the buildings. The planning permission provides for living room, dining room, kitchen/family room, five bedrooms and three bathrooms. Externally there is a walled garden area, three bay garage and good size gardens adjacent to and views over open fields.

Rosewood – North Luffenham £515,000

Rosewood – Built by the highly regarded Francis Jackson Homes, this detached family home comprises of a large Kitchen/Family Room with double doors onto the garden, Utility Room, Separate Dining Room, Downstairs WC, Living Room with multi fuel burner and double doors onto the garden. Master bedroom with en suite & Bedroom 2 with en suite, Two further bedrooms and family bathroom. Double Garage.

Rosewood – North Luffenham £515,000

FASHION

Purls of Wisdom

Exciting things have been created and modelled here by 2nd Year students keen to experiment and be mentored by expert knitter Rachel Parry-Arch at Ewe. Sally Stillingfleet caught up with Rachel and found out how she joined forces with Tara Coulson (Fashion Lecturer) from New College Stamford to stretch the students’ design capabilities in more than one direction! Photography by Elli Dean

CCESSORIES are key for anyone wanting to update their look and stay current. So, Rachel Parry-Arch set students a ‘Live Brief’ to design and knit their own creative accessory, with the winner’s design being made into a kit, which will soon be available to buy in Ewe. Students don’t usually get the opportunity to work with knit and crochet and learn to appreciate its qualities and restrictions for creating accessories. Rachel and Tamsin Measure passed on their time and expertise to run inspirational workshops at the college for students to gain an insight into what could be achieved. These amazing deigns are testament to the tutoring they have received in a relatively short project with great flair and experimentation. At New College Stamford, the second-year students are all going onto prestigious degree courses all over the country, some specialising in Textiles, others wanting to pursue careers in design. The winning design will be announced at their end of year Fashion show on May 3rd.

Black hat by Gemma Yellow hat by Sirinadda Pompom multi coloured necklace by Grace Grey bag by Aubyn Pink bag by Georgina

➧ STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

FASHION

Pink pompom necklace by Tia

Sleeves by Gemima

Grey hat by Kyan

Brown hat by Georgina and multi-layered neck piece by Ben

ANY thanks to all the students who modelled the groups designs: Aubyn, Georgina and Sirinadda. Many thanks to Rachel for giving up her time, donating materials and her expertise. Come and see the work of Fashion students on the catwalk on May 3rd where the winner will be announced. Book tickets online - www.stamford.ac.uk Ewe – 4 Stamford Walk, 01780 763838 www.i-love-ewe.com Learn to knit and crochet courses are held in the winter months. Learn to knit with the new super chunky yarn by inspirational local knitter on May 18th at Ewe (Booking is essential) Attic - 33 St Mary’s Street, 01780 766667 Marcia May Shoes – 41 St Mary’s St, Stamford, 01780 766608 North Shoes – 2 Red Lion Square, 01780 755400 Pictures by Elli Dean (07932 055548) www.ellideanphotography.co.uk

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

Map scarf £25 and sunglasses £25 both Attic

Snood kit from Ewe £55 and sequined navy sliders £120 North Shoes Aubyn wears scarf made from Ewe kit £42 and Chelsea boots £74.99 Marcia May Shoes

Vidoretta slip-on espadrilles £66 Marcia May Shoes

Paul Green red patent sling-backs £110 North Shoes and Red Rieker lace-ups £59.99 Marcia May Shoes STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

UPDATES

Healthy Hearing Phonak’s ground-breaking Audeo B-R rechargeable hearing aids!

F you’re over 60 years old there’s a 25% chance you have a hearing loss; if you’re over 75 years there’s a 44% chance. Amazingly only a quarter of people with a hearing loss have ever done anything about it. Visit Healthy Hearing at their Open Day on Thursday 18th May 2017 and take advantage of a free hearing assessment and demonstration of the new ‘Audeo B-R’ from Swiss hearing aid designers Phonak. The ‘Audeo B-R’ is the first ever rechargeable hearing aid that provides 24 hours of hearing with one simple charge. In February 2017, Phonak ‘Audeo B-R’ won the prestigious iF DESIGN AWARD for outstanding product design. Phonak rechargeable hearing aids are the quickest charging hearing aids on the market and come with a variety of easy-to-use smart charging options, to charge up wherever you are, without having to worry about running out of power. • Simply call 01780 759133 to book an appointment or call in on the day at Healthy Hearing Ltd, No 1 the Old Police House, Cliff Road, Stamford, PE9 1AB. Alternatively, a free home visit can be arranged at a convenient time to suit you.

Rider Rivalry and Retail Remedies at Rockingham International Horse Trials R

OCKINGHAM Castle’s Great Park is the breath-taking setting for one of the region’s ‘don’t miss’ events, Rockingham International Horse Trials. When the sun shines, there can be few better places to picnic than within sight of an 11th Century castle, looking out across the Welland Valley. Now gearing up for its fifth year as host to an International Horse Trials, the 2017 event runs from 19-21 May. It is always a shoppers’ delight, with dozens of trade stands selling their wares from national brands to quirky specialist retailers. On the competitive front, amateur riders rub shoulders with Olympic, World and European medal winning eventers. Walking the cross country course is the best way to get a real feel for the action, as horses thunder past at up to 25mph, separated from spectators by a single strand of string. To satiate the inevitable appetite created by either serious shopping or course walking there is a large bar and a diverse array of food and drink outlets on site. Pony Club riders add to the excitement on the Saturday as they bid for victory in the fiercely fought Team Show Jumping contest while, new for 2017, Riding Club members will have a similar opportunity the following day. There will also be the annual British Showjumping, Arena Eventing and Burghley Young Event Horse qualifying classes. And it’s not all about horses; for smaller four-legged friends, the ‘have a go’ Dog Agility ring will be ready and waiting for your canine companions to strutt their stuff! It’s a great day out in a wonderful location. Where & When • Rockingham International runs from 19–21 May in the Great Park of Rockingham Castle, LE16 8TH, one mile north of Corby. For more information visit www. rockinghamcastlehorsetrials.com. You can find the event on Twitter @ rockinghamLIVE!

WIN ticket to ‘Icons of the 80s’ concert at Burghley Park Burghley Park Saturday 10th June 5pm

Three pairs of tickets to be won!! Each pair of tickets is worth £79!!

HE 80s are back as these three legendary stars join forces for a truly incredible concert experience. With millions of albums sales and iconic hits such as We Close Our Eyes, Call Me, King Of Wishful Thinking, Wouldn’t It Be Good, The Riddle, I Won’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me, Heart and Soul and the classic China in Your Hand, this authentic eighties triple header is not to be missed. This year marks the 30th anniversary of Go West had their first hit single “We Close Our Eyes”. Other hits followed including “Call Me”, “Goodbye Girl” and “Don’t Look Down”, “Faithful” and the smash hit theme song in the film Pretty Woman “King of Wishful Thinking”. Nik Kershaw first achieved chart success in 1984 with “Wouldn’t It Be Good?”, followed by other classics such as “Won’t Let the Sun Go

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

Down on Me” and “The Riddle”. A prolific writer for other artists, Nik also penned the number one single “The One and Only” for Chesney Hawkes. T’Pau’s first single “Heart and Soul” was released in 1987 and initially found success in the US after being featured in a Pepe Jeans commercial, before charting in the UK. Their biggest hit “China in Your Hand” hit the top spot in the UK later that year, and stayed at number 1 for 5 weeks. HOW TO WIN Answer this question: Who write the song “The One and Only”? Email your answer to localliving@btopenworld.com, with ‘Icons of the 80s’ in the message box, your name and full address. Closing date for entries is Sunday May 21st 2017.

L i ve B e a u t i f u l l y

Interior Design Fabric Furniture Lighting Home Accessories

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

Windows • Warm Roof • Bi-Folding Doors • Garage Doors If you are considering any home improvements please contact us for advice and for a competitive quote JUST A SMALL TASTER OF WHAT IS ON DISPLAY IN OUR STAMFORD SHOWROOM • 7 Display Kitchens’ • 15 Composite Front/Back Doors • French Doors/Patio Doors/Bi-Folding Doors • 1 Working Display Model of Electric Roller Garage Door • Windows in Cream, Black, Irish Oak, Golden Oak, Rosewood, White & Grey • English Heritage Approved Sliding Sash Window • Large Rubber Covered Flat Roofing Display Model • Full size roof corner showing Fascia’s Soffits and Guttering • White and coloured Cladding • Warm Roof with Velux

Open: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-3pm

Tel: 01780 654321 www.classicstamford.co.uk Email: sales@classicstamford.co.uk 12 St Leonard’s Street, Stamford, Lincs PE9 2HN 12

Advertisement Feature

HAPPY 10TH BIRTHDAY This month celebrates the 10th anniversary of élan Hair Studio, a beautiful salon located on Silver Lane in Stamford.

alon owner Elaine Heppolette, who has 24 years experience, is looking forward to the next 10 years. “I absolutely love my job, a friendly and professional environment is key to our success and we are going from strength to strength with an amazing team and lots of new and exciting ventures for the future”. We popped in to meet the team and just seconds after walking through the door there is an immediate sense of homeliness from this professional team: Nick, with over 25 years experience and Kim who has been qualified for 21 years joined élan 8 months ago. Both love working in this professional salon with its fantastic fun atmosphere. Then there is Amber who has been qualified for 14 years, who has a passion for all aspects of hairdressing and continually strives to keep on top of all the latest techniques. Faye, with over 10 years experience specialises in ladies colouring

and styling and is offering £10 off any colour service during May to celebrate the 10th anniversary. Molly has been with élan since 2013 on a 2-year apprenticeship and is now working at building up a clientele after having the privilege of learning different techniques from Elaine and the rest of the team. And last but not least is Jodie who is the latest edition and who has already learnt so much in so little time.

L to R: Amber, Molly & Faye.

L to R: Elaine, Kim, Nick & Jodie.

To celebrate their 10th anniversary the salon will be holding a small celebration on the 6th May, all are welcome to join them for a drink, nibbles and meet the lovely team as they look forward to the next 10 years. élan Hair Studio, 1A Silver Lane, Stamford, Lincs. PE9 2BT Tel: 01780 767700 Open Mon 9.30am - 4.30pm, Tue 9am – 6pm, Wed 9am – 5pm, Thur 9am – 7pm, Fri 8.30am – 7pm, Sat 8.30am – 3pm, Sun-closed

Is it time to re-discover your hearing?

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. 13

INTERIOR DESIGN

Do you need an Architect? Undertaking home and office improvements, whether it is constructing a new build or adapting an existing property can be a daunting experience and often a process that is under estimated. It is human nature to work hard and create homes that reflect our aspirations. Work spaces when designed well almost certainly encourage a positive attitude in employees and a desire to be at work. Employing an architect or designer for the design of what is most likely your most valuable asset is advisable and will often be money wisely spent. Rannveig Stone

CHARTERED architect is professionally trained and skilled to turn your dreams into a reality with minimal stress through the design, planning and construction process of your build project. Before consulting an architect consider your brief and budget. RIBA states that overall architectural practices will offer a full service for projects with a budget of £30,000 plus. However, on smaller projects an architect may well be able to tailor their level of involvement and fee to suit the level of involvement required. Where planning permission is required then more often than not employing an architect is necessary. It may be that a oneoff consultation is all that is needed to give you the guidance and advice required to see your project through. In this short space of time you can gain some valuable information on realising the dream.

‘Essentially, through design, architects add significant value to your asset and subsequently improve how you live or work in a building.’ Simon Harris. Harris McCormack Architects Ltd.

Local Architects

Harris McCormack Architects Ltd; ArcHaus Peterborough Road, Wansford, PE8 6JN; www.harrismccormack.co.uk; 01780 433 334; Architects@harrismccormack.co.uk

longside the development of their own unique offices in the ‘old Little Chef’ building on the A1 near Wansford, Harris McCormack has a long list of successful local projects under their belt. They specialise in

RAW architecture; Barnack Rd, Stamford, PE9 2NA; www.rawarchitecture.net; 01780 740385; info@rawarchitecture.net

usband and wife team Helen Raymond and David Watts believe that “spaces should add joy to your life - at work or at home so it is important to get it right!” they specialise mostly in domestic dwellings but will also undertake office, retail and healthcare. Do you work alongside an interior designer? Yes, we do, together we have a very collaborative approach, so can provide a holistic design from start to finish. Do you have a ‘Top Tip’ when choosing an architect? Look at the work they do before you choose one and be open to ideas (we usually throw some curve balls in!) Their most exciting local project to date is their own house in Bainton. “It’s designed around utilising thermal mass and passive solar gains

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

any level of architecture that requires design input but focus predominantly on residential developments of varying size. An opportunity to work with Burghley Estate on the development of The Old Dairy in Burghley Park into a holiday let for up to 20 people highlighted “how insignificant we are in historical terms compared to Burghley. It is phenomenal when you start to understand the size and history of the estate”. Simon Harris. Harris McCormack Architects Ltd.

to heat the building, which leads to a very different interior and exterior. It also shows what is possible on the same kind of budget as a ‘standard’ house.” Helen Raymond

Exciting for Stamford was the design of this modernist new build on Priory Road using new techniques. The positive attitude and working ethos of the client made for a perfect partnership with Harris McCormack. Image still shows Work in Progress. Do you work alongside an interior designer? Yes, regularly, doing so creates a cohesive design down to the last level of detail. It ensures everything has been integrated into the finished article and nothing has been forgotten.

Do you have a ‘Top Tip’ when choosing an architect? Always talk to at least two architects for quotations but always make sure the quotes

and services offered are comparable. Providing Professional Insurance is compulsory for an architect but not for a technician or a designer.

Smallwood Architects; 11a High Street, St Martin’s, Stamford, PE9 2LF; www.smallwoodarchitects.co.uk; 01780 757737; office@smallwoodarchitects.co.uk

ased in Battersea London and Stamford the past 40 years has seen Smallwood create an impressive portfolio world wide. They work primarily on bespoke residential projects. “Anything where we can engage with the client to create something unique is of interest.” Using their creative experience and professional expertise they aim to make the process enjoyable for the client as they manage the project from idea to reality. What is your most exciting local project to date? We are currently undertaking an extensive renovation and extension project on a Grade II Listed Rutland farmhouse of approximately 28,000 sq. ft and have the opportunity to create a dialogue between contemporary and traditional architecture on the same site. Do you work alongside an interior designer? Yes…The ability to consider interior fittings at an early stage in the architectural process often results in a more harmonious building. Do you have a ‘Top Tip’ when choosing an architect? Personality is the key. If you feel an architect understands your aspirations the relationship will often make for a great project.

➧ STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

INTERIOR DESIGN

Ross Thain Architects; 20 Belton St, Stamford, PE9 2EF; 01780 482483; mail@rossthain.co.uk

tarting 26 years ago, ‘as a one-man band doing surveys’, Ross Thain has built a successful local architectural practice comprising of 14 professionals. He believes that employing an architect will maximise your wishes and minimise your expenditure. They specialise in residential developments of all scales and sizes to commercial projects, schools and restaurants. Architects carry out a wide range of projects domestic and commercial, across the country. Their most exciting local project to date is the refurbishment of a major estate near Stamford. It is “a wonderful estate, including a substantial house, chapel, orangery and lots of other secondary buildings which required refurbishment and which have been completed to exacting standards. A well informed, enthusiastic client made the project a real pleasure.” And what’s the most successful element of the project? “The end user loves it.” They will work alongside interior designers on certain projects but also carry out interior work in-house, employing qualified interior architects. Do you have a ‘Top Tip’ when choosing an architect? Quite simply – take a recommendation from someone, don’t choose on price alone and always use a Chartered Practice.

Jonathan Hartley Ltd; The Old Curiosity Shop 28 St Peter’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2PF; 01780 757550; jhartley@jonathonhartley.com

aving trained at the family practice for many years Jonathan started up on his own in 2003. Now a company of five and based in the heart of Stamford they tend to specialise in traditional and listed building development. With these complex buildings, an architect will “ensure the project runs smoothly and correctly, from conception to completion, on-time and within budget.” Their most exciting local project to date has been the Brewery Barn Conversion at The White Hart, Ufford, being able to rejuvenate a redundant building, and bring it back to its former glory. The most successful element of the project was “utilising an existing, characterful building, to create luxurious accommodation”. “From time to time we work alongside an interior designer (who) will ensure the client utilises the space to its full potential. From colour schemes, to lighting and soft furnishings, it’s all really important.”

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

OTHER ARCHITECTS BASED LOCALLY WITH PARTICULAR SPECIALITIES: If you are after an architect to design an industrial process building, look no further. Specialising in food manufacturing, they also undertake heavy engineering projects such as ship building and non-design services in project management, cost consultancy and process engineering. Arctica; Unit 1 West Street Business Park West Street Stamford, Lincs. PE9 2PL; 01780 482200; freshthinking@arctica.co.uk Traditionally focusing on retail led urbanisation projects; the fabulous new Waitrose in Peterborough being one, their portfolio also boasts residential, leisure and care facilities. Urban Edge Architecture Ltd; One Scotgate Mews Scotgate Stamford Lincolnshire PE9 2FX; 01780 755 665; enquiries@ urbanedgearchitecture.co.uk Having designed and constructed the first certified Passivhaus in Rutland, Tony Goodwin from FCD Architecture is well aware of the obstacles one faces building modern design in protected areas. FCD Architecture; 8 Main Road Whitwell Oakham Rutland LE15 8BW; www.fcdarchitecture.co.uk; 01780 460457; 07906 134316

LIGHT UP YOUR LIFE

With our bathroom lighting...

HOME & GARDEN

STEP INSIDE…

The Priory, a Grade II Listed stone and Collyweston property in Elton

RS Dominique Elborne and her family moved to the Priory seven years ago. The house was formerly the Agent’s residence for the Elton Hall Estate and dates back to 1770. When she arrived Dominique was keen to retain the elegant historic features of the house whilst injecting a healthy dose of contemporary style. The first project to tackle was a full refurbish of the large family kitchen which had very dated units and a conservatory added onto the back. “I knew the conservatory had to go,” remembers Dominique, “I had in mind a very sleek contemporary extension to replace it.” As the property is so old, Dominique wanted to avoid a clichéd olde worlde style extension, preferring instead to wholeheartedly embrace a more modern look. Local architect Ross Thain was commissioned to formalise Dominique’s ideas and a local building firm began work soon after. The resulting spacious kitchen diner has new bespoke fitted units designed and fitted by Jonny Abraham; a large central island provides the perfect spot for socialising. “We have three boys so all our family cooking, dining and relaxing has taken place in here,” says Dominique, “it has been a wonderful family space – especially in the summer when we open

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

Favourite Room: “The sitting room – for the light and the peaceful aspect. My favourite striped chair is an antique reupholstered by Alan Watson in a Designer Guild fabric. Dogs and children are not encouraged in here!” up the glass doors straight into the garden. We have enjoyed plenty of parties here too.” In contrast, the dining room is much more traditional and home to some of the family’s antiques. An impressive crystal chandelier shimmers above the dining table and the walls have been painted in a warm butterscotch shade. “We use this room for more formal dining and much more frequently in the cooler months. It’s such a cosy room it really comes into its own from the autumn through until Christmas.” In the sitting room a neutral palette of cool greys and natural tones have been enlivened with some of Dominique’s favourite colours.

“I have used lots of jewel shades in the soft furnishings to add personality to the room. So many of the rooms here are on a large scale they can easily take bright colours.” Sunlight streams in through the large window with views over the Elton Estate and important original features such as the stunning ceiling roses have been carefully restored and retained. Colour and texture remain to the fore when it comes to the bedroom décor. Classic schemes have been lifted with feature wall paper to add a little drama. Rich colours and luxurious fabrics have been used for curtains and accessories. Dominique loves bright orange hues which are found frequently around her home – even in the recently refitted bathroom where the blind has been made from a piece of her favourite fabric and was formerly a tablecloth. “I love the coral motif and decided to reuse it in the bathroom,” she says, “I think it works really well here.” The Priory is currently for sale with Savills and Dominique can thoroughly recommend the house according to her experience of a busy family home. “I love Elton too – it’s a great location and is so centrally placed it’s convenient for everywhere.” • To find out more about the Priory contact Savills, Stamford 01780 484 696

SITTING ROOM: This light filled, welcoming space is Dominque’s favourite place to relax.

DINING KITCHEN: Leicestershire craftsman and designer Jonny Abraham created the chic, family friendly kitchen.

BATHROOM: Dominique’s trademark orange accessories add dashes of colour to the calm, neutral tones in here. Wall and floor tiles by Porcelanosa, available at their showroom in Werrington, Peterborough

DINING ROOM: Walls have been painted in Cat’s Paw by Farrow and Ball, £36 for 2.5 litres. Elizabeth Stanhope Interiors in Rutland will source and supply a chandelier like the one shown here.

MASTER BEDROOM: This elegant feature wallpaper is Derwent in grey by Osbourne & Little, from £70 per roll at Hunters Interiors.

LOCAL SUPPLIER LIST Elizabeth Stanhope Interiors 01572 722 345 elizabethstanhope.co.uk Hunters Interiors 01780 757946 www.huntersinteriorsofstamford. co.uk Jonny Abraham 01664 841263 www.johnnyabraham.co.uk Porcelanosa in Peterborough 08444 818 957 www.porcelanosa.com Ross Thain & Co. Architects 01780 482483 www.rossthain.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

ANTIQUES

Ken Kirkwood When one door closes on life, another door is opened…. The Stamford Auction Rooms reveals the life of the late Ken Kirkwood

Jessica Wall: Auctioneer & Valuer

“A

S I drove The Stamford Auction Rooms van towards the run-down three storey semi-detached house near Rushton, Northamptonshire, I wondered what awaited me behind the shabby front door. As an auctioneer I have learned that appearances can be very deceptive and lo and behold, this unassuming façade was a secret keeper of a lifetime’s work, knowledge, and creativity. This is because the house belonged to the late Ken Kirkwood; an incredible illustrator and photographer and an avid collector of Mid-Century Modern Art, Design and Architecture. He was a friend and contemporary to some of the most prolific architects of the mid- 20th century; Lord Norman Foster, Lord Rogers, Sir Michael Hopkins YRM amongst many others from the UK and internationally, and he also worked with some of the best graphic and interior design consultancies such as Pentagram, Minale Tattersfield, The Partners, Conran Design, Hirsch Bedner Associates to whom he provided first class photography that has brought architecture, graphic and interior design to life, accessible to everyone, through his own unique eye; in his own words ‘I believe that any human being is motivated by light—sometimes unconsciously!—so I love to use light lovingly to seduce a viewer’.

• The Stamford Auction Rooms is, with great pleasure and privilege, selling this incredible collection of Mid-Century Modern Art, Design & Architecture, to include his library of books, collection of professional photography

What struck me immediately was that his lifetime connections were personified in every single room of his house, namely through his discerning collection of designer furniture which includes Charles Eames and Bertoia chairs, OLuce Atollo and Arco Flos lighting, to name but a few, and books……so many books it was like the walls had become them. Even Ken himself had published; English Style and Celtic Style and had contributed to innumerable other books and leading magazines such as House and Garden, The World of Interiors, Casa Vogue, Hauser and other publications across the world, and of course, his colourful Children’s illustrations, in particular The Detective Peabody Casebook series that many of us will remember with great fondness.

equipment and other wonderful items on the 27th May 2017 at 10am. Viewing will be held at the saleroom in Little Bytham, NG33 4RA on Thursday 25th and Friday 26th May 2017 from 10am-6pm. The catalogue

will be available two weeks prior to the sale online, or to pre-order/purchase. Enquiries to: Jessica Wall 01780 411 485, info@stamfordauctionrooms.com or visit www.stamfordauctionrooms.com STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Graffiti beauty launches above Mojo Caroline Austin is a lady who loves her job and it shows; a graduate of the Glasgow School of Art, she has a great eye for colour and design that shines through in her work.

AROLINE offers all types of nail work, and having trained at the CND Academy in Edinburgh she works hard to keep on top of current trends and techniques. Her signature treatment is the CND Shellac system. Caroline explains its benefits: “Shellac really is the ultimate nail system. It creates flawless, gel nails that can last around three weeks, but there’s no abrasion (“roughing up”) of the nail before application so nails remain lovely and healthy and can still absorb cuticle oil while it’s on. It addresses peeling and ridges and actually improves nail health. “My clients travel for miles to have Shellac and it’s lovely and quick too; the layers set in seconds and it takes five minutes to remove.” Caroline also creates custom, eye-catching nails using Le Centé glitter and chrome, as well as the current trend for negative nail art, where a clear, neutral base is contrasted with structured, geometric designs. Clients often bring in images of unusual nail designs and she is happy to recreate them, going so far as to mix colours for bridal parties to achieve a perfect colour match. Shellac costs £25 for a manicure or pedicure and Caroline is available from Tuesday through to Saturday at Mojo on Ironmonger Street (next door to Hambleton Bakery).

The growing trend of negative nail art

The striking effect of a clean white nail mixed with chromed gel varnish

• Graffiti Nails at Mojo 1a Ironmonger Street, Stamford PE9 1PL 01780 757070 07540 689080

Funky, complimentary colour used together to achieve a striking effect

Caroline also creates custom, eye-catching nails using Le Centé glitter and chrome, as well as the current trend for negative nail art, where a clear, neutral base is contrasted with structured, geometric designs. 26

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

©Aveda Corp.

Stripping back the years at Gerards G

LESS GREY. MORE YOU.

NEW to Gerards our 5-minute natural grey blending. How to keep yourself looking youger for longer Our new men’s service lasts up to 4 weeks 95% naturally derived, with a blend of certified organic plant oils It’s an easy add-on to your hair cut and you’ll love the results. Book your appointment today

Rachel visited the salon three weeks prior to her hair extension application appointment for a colour overhaul. Monet transformed Rachel’s hair from a grown out brassy balayage into a beautiful silver ‘root fade’ look, that is very much of the moment. This service was created using Olaplex within the colour. During the colour appointment, Rachel’s hair was matched to the required hair extension colour, length and thickness and this stunning result was completed three weeks later, with a full head of 18” nano ring hair extensions.

Going bold with colour at Garie Nigel G

01780 753002 ERARDS have launched a new range Hair and Beauty of Aveda hair colour that is specifi cally designed men.Hotel One of its biggest The for George Mews Stamford benefits is that it’s really fast. Owner Jayne comments: “This is a five minute add-on treatment that a lot of our male clients are having as part of a regular hair cut. It helps to subtly blend away grey hairs back toward the natural hair colour and it can last for up to four weeks.” Gerards also stock the Aveda Invati range of men’s grooming products that specifically target thinning hair. The team is currently giving their male clients free samples of Invati with every haircut (while stocks last). The Aveda colour blend service, with a cut and finish costs from £26 • Gerards, George Hotel Mews, Stamford PE9 2LB www.gerardhair-beauty.co.uk 01780 753002

ARIE Nigel and his team can’t quite believe how much hair colouring techniques have advanced over recent years; however they are very much ahead of the curve, regularly attending advanced courses to hone their craft. From her early days as a trainee hairdresser, Monet has always been passionate about colour work. Social media has become a platform for her to share some of her colour transformations, and the team monitor social feeds, scouring the world for new trends. Garie comments: “Clients will often come in to see us with an image of a colour or cut that they find on platforms like Pinterest. This provides a useful guide; however, we are mindful that often false impressions have been created, using software like Photo Shop to manipulate the images. “That’s where our designers step in to help guide each and every client through the process, in order to create something achievable for them, whether in one, or multiple appointments.” To minimise damage to the hair, Olaplex was introduced into the salon last year. This is a treatment that works on seeking out the broken bonds in the hair that are caused by chemical, thermal and mechanical damage. Olaplex can be used to restore compromised hair, or as a treatment to provide the ultimate breakage insurance. This is especially important when lifting the hair to a lighter shade. The salon has introduced ‘nano’ ring hair extensions too and can provide a free, 30-minute consultation to determine the right length, thickness and colour for each client. • Garie Nigel Hairwork 6 Silver Lane, Stamford PE9 2BT 01780 751511 www.garienigelhairwork.co.uk Ellie from London regularly visits Monet at Garrie Nigel for cutting and colouring services. Three different colours were used to create a multi-tonal silver to pink ‘dream fade’. The look was completed with an Olaplex treatment and wavy blow dry. STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

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Adult Speciality

Johan Truter

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

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Mbl: 07986 585270 www.alexandradent.co.uk

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

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 •

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After

Before

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Skin - Body - Beauty ELYSIA - “Good things come in small packages”. Set in a beautiful, discreet and tranquil setting, this is the salon for those in the know. With our small expert team we pride ourselves on superior service and treatments in our chic and glamorous salon. EXPERIENCE AND ADVICE - We aim to offer the most effective face, body and beauty solutions. Proven technology with impressive results. Tailor made, bespoke treatment plans just for you. CUTTING EDGE TECHNOLOGY - LASER to treat Hair Removal, Veins, Pigmentation and Skin Rejuvenation BODY SCULPTING & PERMANENT FAT LOSS - Ultrasound, Radio Frequency, Fat Reduction, Skin Tightening, Cellulite, Shockwave Therapy. Using the most advanced non-surgical technology. FACE - Ultrasound, Radio Frequency, HIFU, Fractional, Skin Peels, Micro Needling, LED, CACI, Environ, ZO Medical and Skin Health by Dr Zein Obagi. This dermatology skincare range has

revolutionised skin care. We can treat anti-ageing, pigmentation, rosacea and acne. BEAUTY - Be relaxed and pampered. We offer all beauty treatments including CACI and Environ Facials, Manicures, Pedicures, LCN Sculptured Nails, Massage, Pregnancy Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Lash Extensions, LVL Lashes, Intimate Waxing and Make-up WHAT’S NEW? - We now offer PRP Face Treatments, Mesotherapy, Advanced Skin Peels, Muscle Relaxing Injections, Fillers and Vaginal Tightening. Join us on Wednesday 28th June for our open evening. Learn from the industry experts and see our demonstrations. Call to reserve your place.

Elysia Aesthetic Laser Clinic I Tansor, Oundle. Tel: 01832 226328 or 07879 620196 I www.elysiahealthandbeauty.com

UPDATES

Six simple ways to save tax for the family

Rutland County Show

Our tax system in the UK can be complex and some of the easiest ways of saving tax can often be overlooked. Here Kerry Hilliard of Stephenson Smart Chartered Accountants shares six tax saving tips for the family:

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Claim your Marriage Allowance – this is worth up to £230 in 2017-18 by allowing you to transfer £1,100 of your personal allowance if you are married or in a civil partnership. Pay no tax on savings – the Personal Savings Allowance (PSA) allows basic rate taxpayers to earn up to £1,000 tax free on savings interest and higher rate taxpayers up to £500. A transfer of £1,000 of savings income from a higher rate taxpayer who has used their PSA to a spouse who is a basic rate taxpayer with no other savings income could save £400. Share your dividends – if you receive dividends from shares or investments you will receive the first £5,000 tax free (this reduces to £2,000 from April 2018). Ensure that where possible these allowances can be used by both spouses. Maximise child benefit – where your income is above £50,000 you may have to pay back some or all of the child benefit that you receive through the High-Income Child Benefit Charge. Tax free childcare - is being gradually rolled out for children under 12 from April 2017. Under the scheme the relief will be 20% of the costs of childcare up to a maximum of £10,000 per year, so £2,000 per child. Contribute into your child’s Junior ISA – you can put up to £4,128 into a Junior ISA in the 2017/18 tax year. The ISA is a tax-free way of saving for your child’s future and the money is locked away until they reach 18. • For more information and advice on personal taxation please contact Stephenson Smart on 01733 343275 or go to www.stephensonsmart.com.

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HE 185th Rutland County Show held on Sunday 4th June is the county’s most prestigious one day show and the highlight in Rutland’s event calendar. The show prides itself on keeping its traditional values; showcasing local food, farming and craft. It boasts PHOTO BY: ANDY BALMFORD over 1,000 livestock (cattle, sheep, goats and poultry) on the showground and over 600 horse and ponies; each competing for either the Royal International showing classes or British Showjumping qualifiers. These classes are set against the backdrop of local and artisan food producers, rural crafters and of course the individually chosen high quality retail outlets. The main ring attractions at the Rutland Show are a celebration of the working animal. This year they feature Atkinson Action Horses. The Show will be welcoming back Heavy Horse Classes after an absence of more than 64 years. They are showing ridden and in-hand classes in the vintage area with the championship in the main ring, a sight not be missed. Also, featuring this year are the hilarious Ridgeside team with their fantastic lurchers and terriers doing what comes naturally to them. In the main ring, they will race at full speed chasing an electric lure. They offer a fast, actionpacked demonstration with an informative and humorous commentary. • Tickets and info at: www.rutlandcountyshow.com

Celebrity seamstress at Anna Couture A

BRAND-NEW couture shop has opened on Cheyne Lane in Stamford, run by energetic entrepreneur and mother of six-year-old twin boys, Anna-Maria D’Amato. Anna-Maria, originally from North London, has a star-studded pedigree, having worked in costumes for both film and TV and was Madonna’s seamstress for a year during her Confessions Tour in 2006. “I have produced costumes for productions including Star Wars and Phantom of the Opera and a variety of pop promos. I’ve worked with Gok Wan and, during my time making Madonna’s corsets, I had to sew up a fishnet stocking of hers whilst she was still wearing it which was terrifying (my needle was millimetres from her leg!), explains Anna-Maria. In addition to her star-studded years, Anna-Maria ran her own bridal studios in North London and Gerrards Cross for many years too. “My parents live in Thurlby and I was keen to move back to this area. For the last two years, I have worked at Sukies Party Emporium on North Street and all of a sudden things have fallen into place for me to start up this beautiful boutique - which I’ve never done before.” “Anna Couture Boutique offers something for all the girls - bridal dresses, prom dresses, mother-of-the-bride outfits and I make tiaras and bespoke bridal jewellery too. I enjoy working with brides-to-be and mothers of brides, helping them to design their ideal gown, tiaras and jewellery within their budget.” “I start by taking measurements, then making up the bespoke design in calico toile before beginning the final cut of the dress fabric,” adds Anna-Maria. “My style errs towards the theatrical and alternative whilst covering all genres, from the traditional to ultra-modern. I used to do a lot of themed weddings, where dresses were very styled and flamboyant, however I can copy sleeker styles such as the high-end iconic designs of the likes of Vera Wang and Jenny Packham.” • In addition to bridalwear, Anna-Maria also offers clothing alterations for men, women and children. Cheyne Lane, Stamford; 01780 765174; 07958 641470; FB: anna couture boutique.

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

MEET THE MAKER Stamford resident Harry James Jarvis is a designer maker with a fondness for tools. As such, you’ll often find him in Harrison & Dunn, says Clare Howcutt-Kelly.

ILLUMINATING IDEAS

AKING something from scratch is something we’d all love to do and Harry James Jarvis is doing just that with his wonderful collection of lighting and furniture. But more than that, Harry takes unloved items and gives them a new life transforming copper tube into lamps and upcycling forgotten timber into stylish tables. But it all started off when he was just a young boy: “If I wasn’t putting nails into random bits of wood then I was attacking my bedroom walls with a chisel. Needless to say, my parents had to harness my enthusiasm into something more constructive, and so bought me my first set of power tools at the age of ten! After completing a Degree in Contemporary Furniture Design & Realisation, three years working for a street furniture design company, three years as a carpenter and six years travelling, exploring and experiencing what the world has to offer, I decided to return home and start my own furniture and craft design workshop,” says Harry. And now Stamford is once again home: “Stamford for me has always been a beautiful place as I grew up in the area, but after travelling and deciding to move back to England I know it was the only place I wanted to live in within the area. Driving into Stamford from the A1, I still appreciate how pretty it looks and, as my wife is American, I am constantly reminded of the history it has.”

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

Ask anyone what their favourite local place is and they’ll likely say a pub (“I do like the Tobie Norris – it’s a fantastic building with such history”), or Burghley perhaps but to Harry, it has to be Harrison & Dunn – the hardware store: “That shop has things I didn’t even know I needed and I find different things each time I pop in.” When he begins a new project, he works in a fluid way and regularly refines ideas: “I like to sketch out my ideas when designing or coming up with something new. I’m terrible at drawing but going through the motions of sketching helps me to visualise what it is I want to make before I start cutting anything. For more artistic items and because I use a lot of recycled materials, I design on the fly as things don’t always go to plan or I decide to change things. I have to admit things don’t always work out and I will scrap a project if I’m not 100% happy with it, but as long I keep learning I am happy with that.” When we catch up, he’s in the middle of making some furniture for his house but his plans are bigger than that – one day he’d like to build a house. He doesn’t seem phased by it either: “Working with my hands and creating

things is something I’ve always done and enjoyed, ranging from cooking to making my own wedding invitations.” Harry’s creations fuse function and good design but it’s no accidental partnership: “For me all products should have function as well as form. Furniture in the first instance should solve a problem, whether it’s a storage solution or somewhere to sit, then it looks as beautiful as you can make it. That being said, I do own a Philippe Starck Juicy Salif Lemon Squeezer which is useless at squeezing lemons but is stunning.” Being a maker is challenging and it must be difficult to promote your products which is where sites such as Etsy and Not On The High Street have given these fledgling businesses a boost, giving them a platform on which to showcase their wares. “These days it’s easier than ever for creative people to sell their wares thanks to websites like Etsy and Not on the High Street. You can test the market to see if your products will sell or not with minimal financial investment before you fully commit,” explains Harry. “But also, persevere, it takes time to get established, build trust and build your brand, if you are committed and in it for the long haul then I believe you will succeed. I feel lucky that I really do enjoy my job.” • Find out more at: www.harryjamesjarvis.com

UPDATES

Will the Government’s ‘White Paper on Housing’ transform our local property market? This month, our local buy-to-let expert and property investment advisor, David Crooke, owner of UPP Property Agents, explains what the government’s recent ‘White Paper on Housing’ means to us…

HE housing market has gone through a sea of change in the past decades with the Buy-To-Let (BTL) sector evolving as a key trend, for both tenants and landlords. It was interesting to read within the ‘White Paper’ that the private rental sector played a major part in the future plans for housing. This is especially important for our growing Stamford and Rutland population. The government’s aim is to assist people living in the houses and help the economy by encouraging the provision of quality homes – this in a housing sector that has grown due to worldwide economic forces pushing home ownership out of reach for an increasing number of the population. The significance of a suitable housing policy is vital to ensure the appropriate economic activity and to create a vibrant, desirable place to live in. With the population in our area set to grow, it is imperative that local and central government don’t hold the area back, but proactively work together to encourage the building and provision of quality homes. One idea the government has proclaimed is a variety of measures aimed at encouraging the Build-to-Rent (BTR) sector (instead of the BTL sector). These include allowing local authorities to proactively plan for BTR schemes, and making it simpler for BTR developers to offer

inexpensive private rented homes. To do this the government will invent a distinct affordable housing class for BTR, called ‘Affordable Private Rent’, which will oblige new homes builders to provide at least 1 in 5 of a new home developments at a 20% discount on open-market rents and 3-year tenancies for tenants. In return, the new homebuilders will get better planning assurances. Private landlords will not be expected to offer discounts, nor offer 3-year tenancies – but it is something landlords need to be aware of as there will be greater competition for tenants. Over the last 10 years, home ownership has not been a primary goal for young adults as the world has changed. These youngsters expect ‘on demand’ services from ‘click and collect’, Amazon, Dating Apps and TV with the likes of Netflix. Many youngsters see that renting more than meets their accommodation needs, as it combines the freedom from a lifetime of property maintenance and financial obligations, making it an attractive lifestyle option. Private rented housing, be it Buy-To-Let or Build-To-Rent, has the prospective to play a very positive role. • Contact: David Crooke, UPP Property Agents on 01780 484554

Inspirational Holiday Workshops with Wildcats W

ILDCATS Theatre School are encouraging parents to book early for their summer season of school holiday workshops and events. “We have been successfully running holiday workshops now for almost a decade,” says founder Caz Dolby, “Our summer 2017 schedule is already shaping up to be our best ever.” Wildcats Academy is a fully inclusive theatre school based in Stamford with classes across the South Lincolnshire, Rutland and Peterborough areas. The school offers part time classes to children up to sixteen years and full time accredited courses to students aged sixteen plus. Summer holiday workshops this year will run throughout July and August and feature themed single day events as well as week-long programmes leading up to professional performances with full production values at a local theatre. “This year we will be going all out to impress parents and friends with our end of week performances, the first of which is ‘Madagascar The Musical’, guest directed by Darren Madison of Polka Dot Productions.” Led by Caz, the Wildcats team are very excited about this year’s offering which includes a workshop for would be presenters led by TV star Dave Benson Phillips as well as creative musical theatre training themed

around princesses, pirates, Roald Dahl’s stories and even on line gaming. Local artist Katie Cardew will be on hand to teach youngsters how to paint buildings in her style and a First Aid course aimed at children will demonstrate how to react in an emergency situation through role play culminating in a Junior First Aid Award. “We have completely restructured the style of the workshops to make sure they exceed our demanding standards around professionalism and inclusion,” adds Caz, “At Wildcats, everyone is equally valued and we make sure that even the shyest children get their chance to shine. The workshops aim to be great fun but always have a learning objective in mind. We aim to boost the confidence of all attendees through singing and drama and it’s wonderful to watch them blossom and thrive over the days they spend with us. We pride ourselves that ours are not the average holiday workshops and those who return year after year would agree.” • Stand-alone workshops are priced at £23.50 per child with weeklong programmes costing £120 per child with sibling discounts available. To find out more about classes, parties or summer holiday events visit www.wildcatstheatreschool.co.uk or call 01780 762000 STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

URBAN WALK

A Day Out in York York is England’s best preserved medieval town and only a couple of hours from our patch, so well within reach for a day trip. Mind you, you will probably want to go back several times, there is so much to see! Nicholas Rudd-Jones explores on foot

WALK DATA

Distance: 6.4 kms (4 miles); Millennium Bridge loop is an extra 2.4Kms (1.5 miles) Typical time: 1 3/4 hours; or 2 1/4 hours with extra loop Height change: 16 metres Start & Finish: York Railway Station (YO24 1AB) Terrain: All on pavement; lots of steps

A FEW POINTS OF INTEREST

The city walls are the most complete example of medieval city walls still standing in England today. They were first built by the Romans out of stone, then buried under an earth bank and topped with a palisade by the Vikings, then rebuilt in stone in the 13th and 14th centuries, then intermittently repaired until the 19th century when they were given a complete make-over to make them more accessible and appealing, with re-built battlements, extra mediaeval ‘features’ and walkways added. You can walk all the way around, about 2.6 miles. They are open each day from 8am to dusk. The Museum Gardens are a splendid place to relax. They were designed as botanical gardens in a gardenesque style by landscape architect Sir John Murray Naysmith. In the summer, they are York office workers’ outdoor lunch spot of choice. York Minster, as Richard Carr-Archer observes, “is much more than the largest building in the city, the largest cathedral by area north of the Alps, a beacon for the surrounding Yorkshire countryside, and the destination for hundreds of thousands of tourists each year. It has numerous other claims to fame: it is the most consistent and complete story of Gothic styles in England, with its many special features, such as the octagonal Chapter House without a middle pier, and the Great West Door, whose recent renewal is one of the finest cathedral stonework achievements of the last century”. Finally, mention must be made of the ‘Snickelways’. It sounds like an ancient term, but it was in fact coined by local author Mark Jones in 1983 in his book ‘A Walk Around the Snickelways of York’, and is a portmanteau of the words snicket, meaning a passageway between walls or fences, ginnel, a narrow passageway between or through buildings, and alleyway, a narrow street or lane. Our walk will take you down many of these passageways.

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

You can find a full map and directions at: http://urbanrambles.org/walks/york-5640 . If you are in York, and pop into Waterstone’s or the Tourist Office, there is also a brilliant York City Centre map, created by Andrew Taylor.

PLACES TO VISIT

Yorkshire Museum, Museum Gardens, Museum St, YO1 7FR (01904 687687, www.yorkshiremuseum. org.uk) Houses four permanent collections, covering biology, geology, archaeology and astronomy. York Art Gallery, Exhibition Square, YO1 7EW (01904 687687, www.yorkartgallery.org.uk) The gallery has the largest collection of works by William Etty. York Minster – entrance is £10, £15 to include the Tower; the ticket last for a year, so hang on to it, you will be back! Mon-Sat 9:00am-5.00pm; Sun 12.45pm – 5.00pm Barley Hall, 2, Coffee Yard, YO1 8AR (01904 615505, www. barleyhall.co.uk) Mansion House (re-opening summer 2017), St. Helen’s Square, YO1 9QL (01904 552036, www. mansionhouseyork.com) The Lord Mayor’s residence Richard III Museum, 6 Goodramgate, YO1 7LQ (01904 615505, www.richardiiiexperience.com ) Merchant Adventurers’ Hall, Fossgate, YO1 9XD (01904 654818, www.theyorkcompany.co.uk ) Fairfax House, Castlegate, YO1 9RN (01904 655543, www.fairfaxhouse.co.uk) a fabulous Georgian townhouse designed by John Carr Yorvik Viking Centre, Coppergate Shopping Centre, 19 Coppergate, YO1 9WT (01904 615505, www.jorvikviking-centre.co.uk) York Castle Museum, Eye of York, Tower St, YO1 9RY (01904 687687, www.yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk) looks at York’s social and military past National Railway Museum, Leeman Rd, YO26 4XJ (0844 815 3139, www.nrm.org.uk) You should make the time to go even if you are only vaguely interested in railways. The Mallard steam engine is a work of art deco art.

PIT STOPS

Perky Peacock Café, North Street Postern Tower, Under Lendal Bridge, YO1 7DJ (01904 689778, www.perkypeacockcoffee.co.uk) Betty’s Stonegate, 46 Stonegate, YO1 8AS (01904 622865, www.bettys.co.uk/tearooms/locations/stonegate-york) Cosy café and local institution with an English menu, antique dressers, wooden beams and open fire. Spring Espresso, 45 Fossgate, YO1 9TF (07779 294149, www.springespresso.co.uk) Artisan coffee, Chinese tea and homemade cakes served in a cosy café Rowntree Park Reading Café You can borrow from a selection of more than 1,000 books, including the latest fiction, non-fiction and children’s books Your Bike Shed, 148 Micklegate, York YO1 6JX (01904 633777, www.yourbikeshed.co.uk) Skosh York, 98 Micklegate, YO1 6JX (01904 634849, www.skoshyork.co.uk) Skosh means ‘a small amount, a little’…. eat as little or as much as you want at this inspirational establishment, each portion is very modest.

URBAN RAMBLES: If this walk has given you an appetite for urban rambles that focus on going through green spaces, then you can find many more at www.urbanrambles.org STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

UPDATES

New barbers buzzing with character I

f you are looking for a haircut with personality, why not walk into Rhino’s Gym on the Gwash Industrial Estate and ask for Jonney - the chattiest scissor-wielder in town! Kate Cadman took her eight-year-old son, Alfie, along to get clippered by ex-Stamford School boy and proud owner of the new Jonney Jenkins Barber, Jonney Hugg. As soon as Alfie was comfortably seated in the new salon upstairs at Rhino’s, she cut to the chase ... Why Stamford? I love Stamford, it’s so clean and tidy here and I wanted to set up my own business here and make a new life. I have a girlfriend and we are expecting a baby together. Why Rhino’s Gym? Rhino’s is a convenient location; it’s out of town, so there’s free parking and it’s easy to get to. The gym guys want to look good so they make up most of my repeat clients. Where did you learn your trade? I grew up in Stamford, left school at 16 and did an apprenticeship with The Cutting Company on Ironmonger Street before moving to Eastbourne and Brighton and barbering there for 13 years. What is unique about your service? There are lots of unisex hairdressers that offer a barbering service but people often pay a lot of money in these places when really they should be paying barbering prices. I charge £12 for a wet cut; £16 for a wash, cut and blow dry; £4 for a beard trim and I do a father and son deal for £20. I charge the same for a child as I do an adult and take as much time and care with the children as I do the grown-ups. At the moment, I don’t offer wet shaves, but hope to in the future. I like to have a chat and a laugh with my customers and so my salon is a very friendly environment and I provide a good service. • Jonney Jenkins Barber is open from 8am to 8pm on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays; Saturdays from 7.30am to 5pm and Sundays from 10am to 4pm. Walk-ins only. Contact: 07544 876858.

The Useful Team S

Pipewell Hall relaunches as a wedding venue P

IPEWELL Hall in Northamptonshire is hosting a Wedding Showcase Open Day on Sunday 4 June 2017 from 11am to 3pm. Pipewell Hall ceased offering this wonderful venue for weddings almost five years ago, but during that time the phone never stopped ringing, with future brides pleading to be able to hold their weddings here. They are now back and ready to relaunch Pipewell Hall Weddings, offering a fabulous marquee wedding venue as of June 2017 onwards. The Open Day on 4 June will showcase Pipewell Hall’s glorious lake and stunning parkland alongside some of their exciting new local preferred partners. Entry is free for everyone and includes a welcome glass of Fizz and superb canapés on arrival. Local suppliers there on the day include Carolyn Acton Events – Wedding Planning/Organiser, Thomas the Caterer and the Prosecco Van Gin & Fizz amongst many others. • For more information call 01536 760563 or visit www.pipewellhall.com

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

O much to do, so little time? What you need is The Useful Team (TUT). Why is it that London seems to have all the good concierge services when people in the Shires have the same needs? Well not anymore… Located in beautiful Pipewell, near Kettering, The Useful Team is owned and managed by Patsy Valentin, who along with her team, has created a business and personal management facility which offers bespoke PA/EA & Lifestyle Services. “Through our professional organisational skills, we support individuals and their businesses, helping clients to achieve both their business goals and a healthy work/life balance.” Their Lifestyle Management service takes care of the clients’ day-to-day tasks; this could be planning and booking holidays, selecting schools, house moves, managing second homes, decorating, travel, – in fact, a full Lifestyle Management service. “We are highly experienced at organising people’s business and personal lives”. Patsy and The Useful Team offer an unlimited concierge & PA service for local companies and private individuals. Providing a wide range of pay as you go PA services for clients, from client liaison and diary management, temporary staffing, social media and PR, to event planning and home/office organisation, paying bills, spreadsheets and budget management, charity functions and support, – in fact any service which brings peace of mind and a stress-free life for our clients. The Useful Team are at hand to help, with many years’ experience dealing with daily problems from the little to the large, they will have the answer. What’s more, being a Pay-as-you-go PA service, you only pay for the problems dealt with! What are you waiting for? • www.theusefulteam.co.uk; 01536 764720 / 07549 282228; info@theusefulteam.co.uk

Pipewell Hall relaunch their stunning waterside historical wedding Venue for 2017 onwards

CONSERVATORY TOO HOT IN THE SUMMER AND TOO COLD IN WINTER?

FREE ENTRY

Sunday 4th June 11am – 3pm

Glass of Fizz on arrival and canapés by Thomas The Caterer For more information, contact us on Tel: 01536 760563 Email: info@pipewellhall.com pipewellhall.com Pipewell Hall, Pipewell, NN14 1QZ

Classic have the answer to this problem and you do not even have to change the existing windows or doors, although you can. Fantastic low U-Value of 0.18 and structurally very very strong which means your new sun room meets full Building Regulation Approval. Plastered ceiling, LED lighting, Velux roof vents and choice of tile type and colour.

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UPDATES

Contemporary Painting Catherine Headley and Her Students Stamford Arts Centre 17 to 29 May

ATHERINE Headley has been working in a studio at the top of Stamford Arts Centre for twenty-five years and she runs an art class on Tuesday mornings. Several members of the group embrace the challenges of abstract painting. Others take landscape or still life as their subject matter, interpreting rather than copying. Catherine encourages her students to search within themselves, to ask, ‘What do I want to say in my art?’ and so to pursue their own personal means of expression. After graduating Catherine achieved success as a landscape water colourist but eventually returned to abstract painting about which she shares the sentiments of one of our most

famous artists, the late Sir Terry Frost: ‘...the whole world was opened by abstract art...it is an expansion of freedom and possibility...I’m not trying to put figuration down, because I’ve always loved it. But abstract art gives each person such a chance to learn about themselves and travel so far in space and colour and time‘.

Test Ride an Electric Bike R

UTLAND Cycling’s dedicated E-bike Centre at their Whitwell store has grown rapidly over the last six months, now with over 100 electric bikes available to test ride, hire and buy, with E-bike experts on hand to offer advice and guidance. The new generation of e-bikes are light, versatile and easy to use. There are models to suit everyone from commuters and leisure cyclists, through to mountain bikers looking for that extra boost and excitement on the trails. Electric bikes are a common sight in European cities such as Amsterdam and Berlin, providing all the advantages of a regular bike, whilst reducing the strain on the body by giving you an assisted electronic boost. Use them to ride faster, keep up with friends, help you up hills, improve your time around the woods or get to work. They’re also great if you’re coming back from injury or struggle to ride longer distances, allowing you to cruise with ease and enjoy the pleasure of riding a bike. Want to find out more? Rutland are holding an Electric Bike Demo Day at Whitwell on Sunday, 21st May, 10.00am – 4.00pm. Come along and try a selection of e-bikes from top brands and talk to the experts. To book your free place visit: www.rutlandcycling.com/events E-bikes have also been added to Rutland’s hire fleet, so for just £19.99 you can see what it feels like to do a lap of Rutland Water with some power assistance. Book online at www.rutlandcycling.com/hire, or call the store, 7 days a week, on 01780 460 705.

And one of the members of Catherine’s group, Rachel Barron-Clarke, says: ‘Being a great lover of abstract painting I always thought, ‘I could do that’, but I can’t!nIt is one of the most challenging and frustrating, but at the same time totally engrossing, thing I have tried to do. What keeps me at it when I fail so miserably most of the time I have no idea, but it really gets into your soul and when Catherine congratulates you on your work it is the best feeling ever!’ Catherine gained an honours degree in Fine Art: Painting at Bath Academy of Art. She is a member of the Leicester Society of Artists, Leicester Print Workshop, exhibits in galleries in various parts of the UK and has nine times had a painting shown in the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition. In 2006, she and her late husband Trevor Tanser made RA history by becoming the first married couple to have two paintings each hung in the Summer Exhibition. www.catherineheadley.co.uk www.stamfordartscentre.com

Easton on the Hill Gala Weekend

ASTON on the Hill hosts its 11th Gala Weekend over the late May Bank Holiday. The village’s thriving clubs and societies come together with residents to stage four days of fun for the village and its visitors. Everyone is welcome! Events revolve around the Blue Bell pub garden and marquee and include a Northern Soul Night, 20/20 cricket match, Easton’s Got Talent (V2) Show, Music and Beer Festival, Pet Show and Gala Fete, with a beer festival running throughout. Organiser Roger Sherwood says the Gala Weekend is open to all with any funds raised going to local charities and village groups. The fun starts Thursday May 25th at 5pm with the opening of the beer festival and runs across the entire weekend including Monday 29th with the main Fete. For a full itinerary visit the village website: www.eastononthehill.com STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

CURTAIN CLEANING I wish my curtains could be cleaned I wish I didn’t have to take them down I wish I didn’t have to re hang them We will grant your 3 wishes and guarantee no shrinkage or colour loss. Clean the hard to reach parts Clean above the pelmets Clean the flutes and folds Clear the cobwebs and spiders No health and safety risks

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WEAVING MAGIC 42

UPDATES

Emma Cutmore & The Dress Agency

Beanstalk Literacy Charity Helen Peebles writes: EANSTALK is a national charity recruiting, training and supporting volunteers to provide one-to-one literacy support to primary school children who need help with reading. I had heard about Beanstalk some years ago and was interested in helping them but, because of full time work commitments, I couldn’t become a Beanstalk volunteer. Instead I hit upon a fundraising initiative that combines my own love of reading with raising money for the charity. I have always been a keen reader and had recently been reading more and more from the Penguin Modern Classics list, which includes 900 works of literature in English by modern authors, each considered to have lasting artistic merit. The books were so enjoyable that I found myself actively searching for more when needing something new to read and this inspired my husband to start reading some too. Slowly between us we were making an impressive start on reading through the collection. I began to wonder if we could set ourselves the challenge to read everything on the list and use this personal goal to raise money for Beanstalk, using our literacy skills to improve those of others. To my dismay, I calculated that the two of us would need many years to complete the challenge and then I hit upon the idea of inviting other readers to share the list, all raising money together. I cajoled some family members into helping us and am now hoping to recruit more readers to join in the challenge to share and complete the reading. We’re not racing to finish the list nor are we changing our reading habits to read more books each month. We’re simply reading titles from the list and seeking donations for each one we complete. Anyone interested in reading for charity should contact helenpeebles@btinternet.com for more information.

HIS is a delightful shop tucked away down St Mary’s Passage just before you reach Adnam’s. The shop downstairs is much more than a gift shop because Emma, the owner, has been meticulous in her selection of unique products and has even created some of them herself. The emphasis is on British Design and manufacture, using ethically sourced and natural products where possible. Emma currently stocks The Braided Rug Co, Jangneus, Tom Lane, Pure Thoughts soaps, Barr and Co; and pure linen pinnys, handmade by Emma herself in Stamford. New and exciting lines are arriving all the time, and shortly there will be an artisan pottery range from Penrith in the Lake District (Emma grew up

there). There are also some great, original cards for all occasions, including ‘Fruits’ by Lottie Murphy, originally from Peterborough. The Dress Agency is on the first floor selling preowned clothing and accessories; labels are from high street to designer brands and include Whistles, French Connection, Jigsaw, Jaeger, Top shop, Mint Velvet and many more. New stock arrives daily so it’s always worth popping in to see if you can find a fabulous bargain. If you have never tried a dress agency before give it a go, it’s a fantastic way to update your wardrobe at a fraction of the cost. It’s especially good for casual daywear and separates. • St Mary’s Passage, St Mary’s Hill, Stamford, PE9 2HG 01780 482870 www.emmacutmore.co.uk

David Weaver elected Director of National Carpet Cleaning Association D

AVID Weaver from Oakham’s Weaver (UK) Ltd has recently been elected to a Director at the National Carpet Cleaning Association (NCCA), the first and only nationally recognised trade association in the UK for carpet and upholstery cleaners. Cleaning fine fabrics, antiques, wool, leather or even natural stone needs to be done with skill and care. Mistakes can cause shrinkage, damaged fibre texture or even colour loss resulting in 100s or 1000s of pounds’ worth of damage. So how do you identify a professional carpet, upholstery, oriental rug cleaner, or a natural stone floor cleaner? David gives us his professional advice: “Many people looking for a professional cleaner start by asking a family friend or neighbour, who may have had their own homes recently cleaned– these referrals are very important as a genuine verbal testimonial of someone’s character or qualifications is invaluable. “You could choose a member of the NCCA, where each member is fully trained to the highest standards, regularly updated in changes in practice, fully insured for public liability insurance, treatments insurance and operate to a ‘code of conduct’.

“Some of these members are also “Trustmark” or “Which” accredited. Don’t be afraid to ask your cleaner to show you an up-to-date Treatments Insurance Certificate - not just Public Liability. Remember, not all insurance policies cover damage to the fabrics or furniture being worked on.” You can find your local NCCA accredited member at www.ncca.co.uk. “Make sure your selected cleaner conducts an audit of your fine fabrics and details what they are planning to do. Ask about the total cost, including VAT and any additional costs or extra services such as stain guarding. Get this in writing and check the T&Cs. Never pay in advance and only pay when you are happy with the job that has been completed.” • Call David at Weaver (UK) Ltd on 01572 759899 for free advice and free quotes. Find out more at www.weaverltd.co.uk. STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

PEOPLE

CHILDCARE PROVIDERS IN STAMFORD Antonia Scott meets some of the very best childcare facilities that Stamford has to offer

groups of Pre-School children. Our ethos and management mirrors our values on Foundry Road.

The Ark at St Gilbert’s - Foundry Road, Stamford, PE9 2PP Tel: 01780 482113 The Ark Day Nursery in Foundry Road, Stamford, next door to St Gilbert’s Primary School, has been graded Ofsted ‘outstanding’ in all areas during its last two inspections. A quote from the latest Ofsted inspection stated: “The Ark Nursery provides children with superb opportunities for their learning and development as well as promoting excellent welfare provision; there are tremendous relationships between staff and children. The leadership of the nursery is inspirational and the management team stop at nothing in their strive for excellence.”

• Set in a beautiful Swedish log building with a cosy ‘Hygge’ feel • Facility for summer born children deferring their reception year • Own forest school site with yurt and wood burner set in 3 acres of woodland/pasture • Full days spent at Forest School. Home cooked nutritious meals prepared on site by our nursery cook from locally sourced produce. • Free Baby Group • 30 free hours’ childcare to 3-4-year-old children from September 2017 The Ark Day Nursery provides care for children from 6 weeks – 5 years and is open 8am – 6pm all year round.

The Ark provides: • High proportion of Graduate Practitioners and Early Years Teachers • An Inspirational curriculum following the EYFS, combined with elements of Steiner, Montessori and Emilia Reggio. Attachment is key in everything we do and we value expressiveness and creativity in each individual child. • Strong outdoor ethos with elements of Scandinavian practice

The Ark Pre-School at St George’s School, Kesteven Road, Stamford, PE9 1SX Tel: 07527806136 www.thearkstamford.co.uk The Ark also provides a term time only PreSchool at St George’s Primary School in Stamford providing care for children from 2 – 5 years. The nursery is currently only open term times from 9.15am – 3.15pm. Morning and afternoon sessions available. At St George’s Ark, we offer outstanding care to small

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

The Children’s Garden – Roebuck House, 33 Broad Street, Stamford, PE9 1PJ Tel: 01780 752094 www.stamford.tcgnursery.co.uk The Children’s Garden’s owner - Montessori Teacher and Lead Educator Claire Kenyon, with more than 20 years of experience - is creating an evolving and inspiring approach to pre-school education which nurtures the development of the whole child. Taking inspiration from the core Montessori principles, this unique enquiry-based ethos has at its heart an image of the child as competent and capable of building their own theories about the world around them. At The Children’s Garden, every child, no matter how young, is considered to be an independent and creative individual - and the environment is set up to both challenge and nurture young minds to develop as enquiring and inquisitive children. Intrinsic to this approach is outdoors education which is led by Co-owner Ed Kenyon who has trained in Bushcraft, is a Forest School Leader and a member of Institute for Outdoor Learning. The children have the opportunity to explore uninhibited, sometimes spending the entire day outside - a cosy yurt with its woodburning stove offers a magical retreat to reflect and chat about what has been discovered that day. We believe childhood is a time to explore, create and be joyful. The Children’s Garden is rated Outstanding by OFSTED. The Little Lane Nursery, 1 Silver Lane, Stamford, PE9 2BT Tel: 01780 752211 The Little Lane Nursery opened in October 2015 and has proved to be very popular, catering for children aged between 6 weeks and 5 years old. The nursery is the creation of two Stamford mothers - Victoria Banfield and Emma Altham, who both have children of nursery age and feel this gives them a unique perspective as they know exactly what parents want and need from a nursery. They have worked hard to produce a real home from home environment and firmly believe that

children only learn so much within the walls of the nursery; so, with the help of a specialist bright red ‘walking wagon’, they are out every day. There are two trained Level 3 Forest School Leaders for children to enjoy outdoor learning at two different sites, three times a week. In 2016, they acquired the property opposite which is now a dedicated ‘Baby Suite’ for up to 9 babies, which has purpose built full sized cots in a separate Sleep Snug area. This addition means that the Little Lane Nursery now have an older babies room to cater solely for 18month - 2 year olds. • www.littlelanenursery.com Email: info@littlelanenursery.com The Acorn Childcare Centre - Malcolm Sargent Primary School, Empingham Road, Stamford, PE9 2SR Tel: 01780 766493 Email: acornchildcarecentre@btconnect.com Acorn Childcare Centre is located in the grounds of Malcolm Sargent school offering exceptional childcare all year round for children from aged 6 weeks upwards. The setting is divided into three carefully tailored rooms, to meet the needs of the three different age ranges, with a calm natural theme running throughout the setting. Acorn have a wide range of exciting weekly activities for children provided by third parties who come into the setting such as Music bugs and French lessons, as well as enjoying forest school sessions in the nursery grounds with Jo Goldsmith, the Forest school leader. Their location adjacent to Malcolm Sargent allows for pre-school children to visit a ‘big school’ to watch plays and concerts performed by the older students. Children also use the facilities for a weekly ‘Funergy’ class which as the name suggests is full of fun and energy! • acornchildcarecentre@btconnect.com The Stamford Nursery School – Stamford Junior School, Kettering Road, Stamford, PE9 2LR Tel: 01780 484418 The Stamford Nursery (formerly Early Birds) occupies a peaceful, wooded area in the spacious grounds of Stamford Junior School. It is open from 9am to 4pm Monday to Friday,

with extended care available from 7.45am to 6pm during term time, and from 8am to 6pm during school holidays. Nursery education is provided for two age groups, the ‘Gosling’ group (turning 3 year olds) and the ‘Owl’ group (3-4 year olds). The children are looked after by a highly qualified and professional team of enthusiastic staff under whose care they all thrive with the variety of activities and huge outdoor space available. The road race track area is particularly popular with all the toddlers and their speedy drive-on cars! The Rocking Horse - 85 Rutland Road, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1UP Tel: 01780 757922. Mon – Fri: 8am – 6pm. From 3 months to 5 years The Rocking Horse has been established for over 25 years and despite the temptation to expand, they concentrate instead on striving to continue their excellence. The nursery caters for 48 children and is made up of 4 rooms tailored to specific age groups - allowing small enough groups for individuals to have their needs met, but large enough for the children to learn to share and make friends. Forest School sessions are on site at their base camp which has a fire pit and mud kitchen all within a large developing outdoor area. They aim to teach children in a natural environment to go back to basics and explore their surroundings safely. The highly qualified, long serving staff go the extra mile to source innovative ideas and ways to settle, teach and have fun with the children in their care. • Email: info@rockinghorsenurserystamford. co.uk Facebook: The Rocking Horse Nursery Stamford Little Cherubs Day Nursery, 15-16 Broad Street, Stamford. PE9 1PG Tel: 01780 751222 Little Cherubs Day Nursery was first established in 2006 in High Wycombe and their premises in Stamford opened in June 2016. Owners James and Elizabeth have two young children and have endeavoured to create a setting which encompasses all the seven areas of learning into each of the rooms, making a solid base for every child’s early educational

start. There is a Secret Walled Garden off site, a Sensory Room, Soft Play Room and Mr. Benn Room which children can enjoy along with their two age-appropriate rooms. Spanish and French Music classes with BilinguaSing, Diddy Drama classes with Talent Youth Theatre, plus music and movement classes take place daily, at no extra cost. OPEN DAY Saturday 8th July 2017 from 10am – 4pm. • www.littlecherubsstamford.co.uk The Mulberry Bush Childcare and Education Centre Main Road, Uffington, PE9 4SN Tel: 01780 755322 St Augustine’s RC Primary School, Kesteven Road, Stamford PE9 1SR “A welcoming and friendly atmosphere greets all children and their families.” Mulberry works collaboratively with parents to provide individualised early years care and education, meeting the needs of local families in Stamford and the surrounding villages. For 20 years, they were based at Stamford College and now have two high quality settings for children birth to five years. Both settings support children to make really good progress in their learning and development. Ofsted observes: “Children are happy, settled and behave well. The positive relationships formed with families is a real strength of the nursery.” The Mulberry Bush on Kesteven Road is based independently in the grounds of St Augustine’s Voluntary Academy and opens during term-time 8.30am-4.30pm daily. Additionally, the Mulberry Bush at Uffington is easy to find just a few minutes away and opens all year 8.00am-6.00pm daily. This setting includes before and after-school clubs for older children to age 8 years. • To arrange a visit, contact Georgie Brock on 01780 755322 or email themulberrybush@btconnect.com. OTHER NURSERIES: Copthill Independent Day School, Barnack Road, Uffington. – Inspected ‘Outstanding’ Early Years dept. www.copthill.com Tel: 01780 757506 Railway Children’s Nursery, Creeton, Little Bytham. Tel: 01780 410055 for children aged 8 weeks to 5 years ABC Day Nursery, Barholm Road, Tallington. PE9 4RJ Tel: 01778 343111 for children aged 6 weeks to 4 years. Casterton Childcare Centre, Ryhall Rd, Stamford, PE9 4AT 01780 754780 www. castertonchildcarecentre.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

Come and meet our dedicated team at 47 Main Road, Uffington, PE9 4SN also Kesteven Road, Stamford PE9 1SR Telephone Georgie 01780 755322 Early Learning in Partnership with Parents Supporting families in Stamford, Uffington and all surrounding villages Early Education & Funded Places for

Day Nursery

8am-6pm for Babies 0-2yrs Toddlers 2-3yrs Pre-school 3-4yrs

Toddlers 2-3yrs Pre-school 3-4yrs

After School & Breakfast Clubs for Children 4-8yrs

Book your child’s place now

www.themulberrybushchildcare.co.uk

Learning together through faith, hope and love

Easton Garford Endowed CE School Part of the Peterborough Diocese Education Academy Trust

This term at Easton Garford School…

Class 1 have been to visit Warwick Castle to learn about Medieval England and the whole school had a fantastic day on World Book Day dressing up as their favourite book characters.

Easton Garford School has undergone many recent positive changes: • Academy Conversion in July 2015 • New catering contract with ABM Catering • £100,000 of redevelopment • Executive Partnership with Polebrook School

• • • •

Small class sizes High academic standards Specialist music provision Spacious sports field

• Range of extra-curricular sport and art based activities • Fully equipped library • Residential experiences at KS2

Places Available Now

Come along to meet us and see what we can offer your child! Easton Garford Endowed C. of E. School New Road, Easton on the Hill, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 3NN 01780 763025 www.eastongarford.org

‘Childhood is a time to explore, create & be joyful!’ Ofsted Outstanding Forest School On-site Outdoor Learning in Yurt classroom Montessori from 2 years Respectful ethos from babies onwards W: https://stamford.tcgnursery.co.uk E: thechildrensgarden@btconnect.com

T: 01780 752094 Roebuck House, 33 Broad Street, Stamford PE9 1PJ

Founded in 1998

PETS GALORE

Pet Rescue Everyone I know who has rescued a pet says it is a very rewarding experience, but it does not come without its pitfalls. This month Deborah Pennell meets some rescued pets and their new owners and gives you an insight into some local charities working hard to give mistreated or unwanted pets a second chance.

The Griffith-Barrasso Family have rescued two dogs “Meet three-year-old Primrose (Greyhound) and two-year-old Paddington (Bedlington Whippet cross). We’ve had them both for two years now. We got them because our daughter was fearful of dogs and was getting quite anxious of going to people’s homes where there were dogs. I grew up with dogs so I couldn’t have that! Primrose came from Ireland, via Brambleberry Greyhounds www.brambleberry-greyhounds.co.uk Paddington came from a local rescue site www.ravenswoodpetrescue.co.uk - the charity thought he had escaped from a garden, but despite best efforts no one ever came to claim him. We wanted a rescue dog for two reasons: we didn’t want a puppy as we did not have the time to dedicate to house training one, and because there are so many unloved dogs out there desperate for homes. Greyhounds make the most amazing pets – they are so kind and gentle. Watching them both run in the fields is a joy, but they can curl up into the smallest ball. Beware though – they take over the sofas! And the great thing is, our daughter Violet, is now cured of her dogphobia!”

Starlight Barking “Registered Charity No: 1172102 www.starlightbarking.co.uk 07789 953649 Founded in 2016 by Wendy Lyotier and Fiona Baylis, this charity aims to give better lives

The Baker family have rescued two rabbits “Both of our rabbits came from the Pets At Home’s rehoming charity www.supportadoptionforpets.co.uk. The smaller grey rabbit is Cloud. He was part of an unwanted litter and aged three months at the time. The brown and white rabbit is Biscuit. We rescued her in April 2016, as a companion for Cloud. She had been handed in for rehoming and there was little history available. They now live together in domestic harmony and will share a cabbage leaf and eat from the same bowl. Biscuit is now a different rabbit – more confident and much more relaxed about being handled. Although most people would consider rabbits to be a child’s pet, ours are part of the family. We all share responsibility for them and enjoy spending time with them.”

Three Counties Dog Rescue (Also takes in Cats for rehoming) Registered Charity No: 1170606 www.threecountiesdogrescue.org 01778 440318 or 07708 589792 Set up in 1972, this is one of the most established local pet rescue charities in the area. Browse their website for details of all the dogs and cats looking for a forever home. Also look for fundraising events and information about their shop in Bourne – they are always looking for good quality items to sell.

to dogs from overseas. Working in partnership with tour operators, their staff and guests, they rescue dogs in distress from around the world. Their first project is to support the million plus stray dogs of Greece. Alfie, a Golden Retriever brought over from

Greece by Starlight Barking in 2016 who now lives in Manchester at the first dog café, Central Bark. Zeus, another rescue by Starlight Barking, who now lives happily in Maxey, near Market Deeping.

Lincolnshire Greyhound Trust Registered Charity number 1103656 www.lincolnshiregreyhoundtrust.com 07941 313025 A Lincolnshire based charity working closely with racing owners and trainers to find homes for retired greyhounds when they have finished their racing careers. The charity rehomes about 100 greyhounds a year. The Mutts Nutts Registered Charity No: 1152155 www.themuttsnutts.com 07535 141708 A Stamford based dog rescue charity. Join them at Rutland Water on Sunday 14th May, 10.30am – 2.30pm for an event called ‘A dog walk with a difference.’ More details on their website.

32 Main Street, Great Casterton, Stamford, Lincs. PE9 4AA

A VETERINARY PRACTICE WITH A DIFFERENCE Tel: 01780 763180 www.stamfordvets.co.uk 48

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

Country Traditionals Traditionals Country Country Traditionals Country Traditionals

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THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Hitting the right pitch Traditional camping is a bit like Marmite - you either love it or hate it. There’s not usually any grey, until now that is - with the arrival of the ‘glamping’ and now the ‘champing’ scene! Kate Cadman pitches up at a few of the region’s top get-away locations and hooks up to what’s on offer.

F you’ve had that ‘camping’ conversation with friends, you’ll know that the topic defines two distinct camps (ha ha); those of us who love bunking up under canvas and those who are truly revolted by the whole prospect of lurking insects, communal showers, muck, mud and general outdoorsy sleeping arrangements. To bridge the gap, glamorous camping came along (glamping) and now you can even opt for an overnight snooze in a church - champing! Here’s a little taster of some of the region’s camping, glamping and champing hot spots.

IN THE STIX, GREETHAM:

Brook Farm, Wood Lane, Greetham, Rutland, LE15 7SN. This is one of the region’s newest glamping sites which is based on a 30-acre farm in the picturesque village of Greetham. In The Stix has just opened for business offering four geodesic (hemispherical thin-shell structures) domes for hire each sleeping up to six adults. The site is owned by husband and wife team, Darren Blackwell and Alex Cowie. Each spacious dome has its own private field kitchen (in a separate adjoining structure) which contains a log-fired oven for cooking - perfect for slow cooked casseroles, fry ups and pizzas, and a two-ringed gas hob for when you need a quick cuppa. The kitchens are equipped with pots and pans, crockery, cutlery and cooking utensils. There’s even a kitchen sink with cold running water. Each dome has its own en-suite which contains a shower, sink (with hot and cold running water) and a flushing toilet. All linens and towels, pillows, duvets and additional blankets are included. Prices for a minimum three-night stay start at £380. • Contact: www.inthestix.co; E: info@ inthestix.co; T: 07958 378971; 01572 811415.

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

ALL SAINT’S CHURCH, ALDWINCLE:

Main Street, Aldwincle, Kettering, Northamptonshire, NN14 3EL. If you fancy something slightly more solid to protect you during a night away, why not opt for a spot of champing - which means spending a night camping in a church. Set up across England and Orkney, there are currently 12 champsites to choose from with the nearest in neighbouring Northamptonshire. All Saint’s Church in Aldwincle boasts a formidable 15th century tower and mediaeval interior. Champers to this site can expect basic accommodation which includes: camp beds, (bedding packs can be ordered), cushions, rugs, eco loos (which run on solar power), battery-operated candles and lanterns, and a water supply (pumped by hand) or bottled water. There are no cooking facilities so champers are encouraged to pack their own pre-cooked food. There is a distinct lack of heating so layering up is advised. However, the beautiful building comes into its own as dusk falls, allowing the night sky to penetrate the cavernous stone building via its beautiful, plain glass, arched windows. For those who may have prayed for a little more to eat, an enormous cooked breakfast can be pre-ordered and delivered to the font in the morning (for £10). This pop-up hospitality is a truly great way for churches at risk (which have passed to the care of the Churches Conservation Trust) to raise revenue with very little impact on the environment. Prices start from £39 per adult and £19 per child/per night. • Contact: www.champing.co.uk; T: 0207 8410436.

Exton Walled Gardens

Inside the ‘canvas cottages’ you’ll find a wood burning stove, ye olde candle lanterns, sofas, dining furniture, a kitchen with gas hobs and all cooking utensils plus a en-suite (attached to the tent) bathroom with separate shower and toilet.

EXTON WALLED GARDENS:

A LITTLE BIT OF ROUGH, RUTLAND:

Based in a secret location in the woodlands of Rutland - shhhh! You may prefer to opt for a magical starstudded night under canvas, with added luxuries. If this is the case, A Little Bit of Rough could provide that perfect mix whilst being ultra eco-friendly into the bargain. Deep in the idyllic 20-acre private ‘Spindleberry Woods’ are three spacious canvas lodges available for hire. Only once you’ve booked your accommodation is the exact location divulged to you! Each lodge, available to book for three, four or seven nights at a time, comprises a king bedroom, a twin bedroom and a double cabin bed. An en-suite bathroom in each lodge boasts a roll top bath, wash basin and separate toilet room. At the heart of each lodge is a wood burning stove used for both cooking and keeping warm. A small gas ring is also provided for making hot drinks. The kitchen is fully equipped with cooking utensils, pots, pans, crockery, cutlery and glassware and a solar powered fridge/freezer. A large, three-seater leather sofa is great for relaxing on. A wooden chest houses board games, reading materials and the allimportant bug hunting kits. At the front of each lodge is a large decked area complete with large table and chairs to tempt al fresco dining. In addition, six recliners entice campers to lie back, relax and enjoy the view. • Contact: www.alittlebitofrough.co.uk; T: 0116 259 2319 or 07591 736739.

Exton Park, Oakham, Rutland. This magnificent 18th century estate sits in 1,000 acres of land and is particularly wellknown for its five-acre walled gardens. Amidst this rural idyll are six spectacular safari tents providing luxury glamping accommodation sleeping a maximum of six adults. Inside the ‘canvas cottages’ you’ll find a wood burning stove, ye olde candle lanterns, sofas, dining furniture, a kitchen with gas hobs and all cooking utensils plus a en-suite (attached to the tent) bathroom with separate shower and toilet. The only notable absentee is a fridge, replaced by an equally functional cool-box. All bedrooms (one double; one twin and a bunk bed with bedding and linen provided) are separated for privacy and comfort. The estate’s old potting shed is now home to an on-site honesty shop where essential items and local produce can be purchased. Once you’ve explored the ornamental garden it’s an easy walk into the quaint village of Exton. Prices start from £365 for four-night mid-week stay. • Contact: www.lanternandlarks.co.uk/ glamping-locations/exton; E: info@ lanternandlarks.co.uk; T: 01638 563478.

➧ STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

YARWELL MILL CARAVANNING AND CAMPING PARK: Yarwell, Nr Peterborough, PE8 6PS. If a complete escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life sounds appealing, then a break away to Yarwell Mill could be just the ticket. Nestling at the edge of a sleepy village surrounded by fields and waterways, is the peaceful retreat of Yarwell Mill. Spread over 27 acres of Northamptonshire countryside, the park has traditional pitches for motorhomes, caravans and tents. Campers can opt for nonserviced pitches through to super-serviced pitches which include electric and many of these sites nestle near to a well-stocked, fiveacre lake (fishing permitted). In addition, the River Nene meanders right through the park and includes Yarwell Lock. With moorings at Yarwell Mill and course fishing available along the banks of the river (in season), there’s always lots to do. A small on-site shop stocks all the essentials, plus there are communal toilets, showers, facilities for the disabled and a washing-up area. Ring or email for prices and general information. • Contact: www.yarwellmill.co.uk; E: info@ yarwellmill.co.uk; T: 01780 782344.

WING HALL ESTATE:

Wing Hall, Wing, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8RY. Wing Hall is a beautiful Victorian country house surrounded by acres of rolling countryside. The estate offers a family-run, ‘traditionalstyle’ caravanning and camping site spanning four grassy fields. The site has basic facilities including an on-site shop selling local produce which includes a daily supply of freshly baked bread from the nearby Hambleton Bakery. An independently-run café, The Button Hole Café, serves a tasty selection of homemade meals including afternoon tea, coffees and breakfasts throughout the camping season. Fire pits can be hired during the evenings which can make for much ging, gang, goolie fun. A dedicated adults-only site allows those without children in tow to enjoy a quieter atmosphere. The café hosts a series of informal music evenings during the summer with local musicians performing on the lawn of Wing Hall. Bookings can be made online. • Contact: www.winghall.co.uk/camping; E: winghall1891@aol.com. SURVIVAL GUIDE: TOP 10 ESSENTIALS: 1. Extra tent pegs/mallet 2. Water bottle 3. String 4. Clothes pegs 5. Matches 6. Torch 7. First aid kit 8. Bottle opener/ can opener 9. Mug 10. Cutlery

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

Yarwell Mill Caravanning and Camping Park

NORTH NORFOLK COASTLINE: MARGINS WALKING AND GLAMPING HOLIDAYS

SACREWELL FARM, PETERBOROUGH: Sacrewell, Thornhaugh, Peterborough PE8 6HJ. If you’re after a room with a view, you’ll find it at Sacrewell Farm, which overlooks some of the most beautiful countryside in Cambridgeshire. Competitive camping prices make Sacrewell the perfect stop for weary travellers or holidaymakers. And with 50% discounted entry into the Heritage Farm Centre, you can make a full trip of it. If you’re a glamper and can’t do without your comforts, the site has 27 electric hook-up points. For those who prefer an authentic night under canvas (or in a caravan, campervan or motorhome), there are 48 spacious grass pitches. Communal campers’ toilets and showers are in the main building and are open 24 hours a day, with disabled and baby changing facilities available. Hot and cold running water is accessible in the top and bottom field for washing up and re-filling water tanks. • Contact: www.sacrewell.org.uk/camping; E: info@sacrewell.org.uk; T: 01780 782254.

FRIVOLOUS GUIDE: TOP 10 NON-ESSENTIALS: 1. Fairy lights 2. Electrical paraphernalia (hairdryers, straighteners etc) 3. Full length mirror 4. Blow up settee 5. Windbreaks, complete patio set 6. Coffee machine 7. Nutri-bullet 8. Earplugs/eye mask 9. Portable charger 10. Mobile air conditioning unit*

If you want to immerse yourself both day and night in our fabulous Norfolk coastline, why not book up for a walking/glamping holiday. This area of outstanding natural beauty is excellent exploration territory and at the end of each active day your glamping accommodation will be organised for you along your route. Accommodation consists of a robust two-man tent (tents can be booked for one). You will be part of an exclusive, small group of up to six people but you walk to your own pace. The tents have a sleeping area with comfy camp beds and cozy duvets (just what you need after a long day of walking) plus a separate sitting area. A small equipped kitchen with a gas burner allows you to make that all important cuppa in the morning. A continental breakfast is included which consists of delicious local produce including eggs, bread, cheese, ham, cereals, fruit and juice - even the tea and coffee will be Norfolk produce! Each campsite is situated close to the coastal path and your glamping accommodation will always be ready and waiting for you. All you have to do is enjoy yourself! Prices start from £65 per night (which includes bag transfer for the whole of your stay, bedding, towels and a daily breakfast hamper). For an extra £6.50 your dog can stay too! • Contact: www.walkandglamp.co.uk; E: info@ walkandglamp.co.uk; T: 07787 534809.

*Ever thought of air conditioning your motorhome or caravan? There’s nothing worse that high temperatures/high humidity stopping you sleeping at night whilst you’re on your holidays. Cool My Camper offers a range of cost-effective and easy-to-use (no installation necessary), air conditioning units that efficiently cool the air and remove humidity. The units are fully portable and can hang on a van window, sit on a caravan A-frame or stand on a table. Prices start from: £540. For more information go to: www.coolmycamper.com.

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PROFILE

Sophie Allport celebrates 10 years and a shop opening Antonia Scott catches up with Sophie Allport as she celebrates 10 years in business and opens a shop in Stamford

Woof! pet bed (3 sizes. From £36)

New Bees picnic collection – Picnic cool bag, blanket & melamine. Prices start from £6.

Sophie Allport wearing the new Bees apron (£19)

‘Catch me if you can!’ gardening mug (£11)

BUSINESS SO FAR: 2007 – 2017 What a busy ten years for Sophie Allport and her team – now a thriving business employing over 40 staff and having around 900 stockists in the UK. The collections of her product ranges and fabrics designs now total 29, including limited editions of commemorative, anniversary and seasonal ranges. Sophie has branched out from originally concentrating largely on ceramic designs, to now including a wide range of homewares, including fragrances, bags and sourcing oneoff unique pieces of furniture from auctions, that can be upholstered in any one of her beautiful fabrics. The categories of products are also ever-growing – now including picnic, pets and kids ranges to suit her far-reaching audience of countryloving clients. Sophie has two new exciting product designs in the pipeline for May 2017, the first being a range to celebrate her 10 years in business which showcases the best of all her creative illustrations; and the second is a special ‘Gardening’ range for her 7th year exhibiting at RHS Chelsea Flower Show, where she first met another local hero, landscape designer, Adam Frost. They have recently collaborated over his new Garden School in Barnack which is beautifully kitted out with her ‘black Labrador,’ ‘chicken’ and ‘gardening’ ranges to highlight Adam’s country backdrop. FROM CLICKS TO BRICKS Sophie’s popularity at Country Shows all over the UK has grown hugely since the very first one she exhibited at in 1996 and she now has a loyal customer base all over the country. Online sales have dramatically increased and the headquarters at Langtoft are testament

to the year-on-year growing demand, having expanded into three warehouses stocked floor to ceiling of products being ‘picked and packed’ ready to send out to customers. As a chartered accountant, Sophie’s brother Jem is tasked with continuing the upward sales trajectory and sustaining the business’ growth so that Sophie can concentrate on keeping up with her customers’ appetite for fresh product designs. Her inspiration for creativity comes from her surroundings – “We are so lucky to see wildlife all around us in Lincolnshire, and I especially love experiencing things through my children’s eyes who always have such a fresh, excitable view of life. My parents also instilled in us a belief that we could achieve our goals if we worked hard – something I’ve never forgotten.” SHOP IN STAMFORD Perhaps the best news yet is that from this month Sophie Allport Ltd will have their first shop in Stamford – a beautiful three- storey building on the high street next to the Library. As Jem explains, “Having a more visible store than our current headquarters in Langtoft was always something we spoke about and were working towards. At the beginning of the year we started to consider various locations and Stamford kept ticking all the boxes. It is the perfect destination town for tourists and locals alike to enjoy our multitude of independent high street shops. So when this property became vacant, we all fell in love with it and can’t wait to move in.” Sophie has great confidence that her reliable team of staff will ensure impeccable customer service and looks forward to welcoming everyone. • 26 High Street, Stamford The Barn, 29 Kings Street Industrial Estate, Langtoft, PE6 9NF www.sophieallport.com STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

UPDATES

The importance of having a Will

Stamford Amateur Musical Society performing family classic Annie

SAMS cast members: (l-r) Annies Emma Wheeler and Chloe Lorentzen, Dani Wheeler as Grace, Bill Lawrence as Mr Warbucks and Paul King as Drake.

STAMFORD Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre, Wed 31 May until Sun 4 June Award-winning Stamford Amateur Musical Society (SAMS) is bringing Annie, one of the world’s best-loved and heart-warming family shows, to the Corn Exchange Theatre. Such is the scale of this musical extravaganza that, for the first time in the society’s 112year history, it has selected two separate teams of child performers to tread the boards. Director Jo Henderson, assisted by Sharon Middleton, explains: “We had such a tremendous response to our pre-audition workshops and the main audition itself that we were awash with talented young singers, dancers and actors all trying out for the parts of Annie as well as principal and chorus orphans. “We therefore took the unprecedented decision to have two children’s casts who will take to the stage in alternate performances alongside the society’s adult members. “While this has meant the adults have had double the number of rehearsals, it is worthwhile to give more girls the opportunity to showcase their skills in this wonderfully upbeat family musical.” With its unforgettable songs - including Hard Knock Life, Maybe, Easy Street and Tomorrow - fabulous choreography and an optimistic storyline, SAMS’ Annie promises to be a real treat for all the family. Tickets, priced at £13.50 for adults, £9 for children and £12.50 for concessions, plus a booking fee, are available from Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre box office at www.stamfordcorn-exchange.co.uk or on 01780 766455

ITHOUT a Will, you allow no say as to whom or how you want to benefit from your estate and leave it instead under Intestacy Rules. This means that if you are: - married; in a civil partnership; simply cohabiting with your partner; or single and have children or not - those whom you wish to benefit may be left with nothing or significantly less! Second marriage or civil partnership If you are both in your second marriage or civil partnership with children in both cases from a previous relationship you may wish to consider amongst other things in your Will: - how your property and other assets are owned? Unmarried couple with children from previous relationships A Will will provide certainty for both your children and partner. If you are engaged, your Solicitor will advise on a ‘contemplation of marriage’ clause so that your Will is not cancelled out by your marriage. If an unmarried couple leave everything to each other you have no spouse exemption and, subject to neither of you being a widower, only your single nil rate band. Therefore, if your estate is above this rate, currently £325,000, you could pay Inheritance Tax (IHT) twice! In order to avoid the same assets being subject to IHT twice, your Will could place some or all of your estate in Discretionary Trust. A Solicitor should consider all aspects regarding your personal and financial background, what is your main objective be it Capital Gains Tax for the survivor, IHT or asset protection and reduction before advising you of your options. A Will should be bespoke and catered for you and not be one fits all mentally. At Buckles Solicitors LLP, the approach has and always well be “legally focused, relationship driven”. Why not make a no obligation first meeting to see for yourself? • Buckles LLP Stamford, 3 St Mary’s Hill, Stamford PE9 2DW 01780 484570 www.buckles-law.co.uk

Poetry stone unveiled for public performances

HETHER you’re into alliteration, iambic pentameter, limericks or just particularly partial to plain prose, there’s a new hot spot in town that you simply must go and visit. Stamford’s very own Poetry Stone has just been unveiled in the natural amphitheatre of St Michael’s churchyard just off the High Street. The opening ceremony saw local school children and poets laureate past and present performing a selection of Stamford poems to mark the spot. Members of the public also had a chance to step up and find their voice. The installation, conceived by Stamford poets, artist Beatrice Searle* and Karen Burrows of Stamford Arts Centre - and made possible by the kind donations of the Harry Skells Estate Trust, Stamford Arts Centre and Ketton Stone - has been carved by artist and stonemason, Beatrice Searle. The stone is an enduring and interactive monument marking the town’s commitment to poetry and is

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

the stone and members of the public will be encouraged to share video and images of their readings.

available to everyone as a platform to step into the footsteps of Stamford’s poet laureates and recite their own words and verse. Seasonal readings will take place from

Beatrice Searle is an artist and stonemason. She has recently completed her stonemasonry apprenticeship at Lincoln Cathedral (2016). Beatrice met current poet laureate, Camilla McLean, in December 2016 during an interview on the Arts Show on BBC Radio Lincolnshire and the Stamford Poetry Stone project blossomed from there.

LOCAL MUSIC

Band Spotlight:

March To The Grave Cast your mind (or imagination) back to 1978… a Labour prime minister in Number 10, Liverpool FC champions of Europe, and ABBA topping the charts with ‘Take A Chance On Me’. It seems like an age away now, but in Stamford’s own Golden Fleece, one of the town’s most enduring bands began to take shape.

“I

MET Andy, our frontman, just as the punk scene was taking off,” recalls founding member Rick Simpson. “We first met in ’78, and we’d formed a band by the following year, originally calling ourselves ‘GBH and the Riot Squad’. We hadn’t been going long before we found that there was another band called GBH, and yet another called the Riot Squad! So, we changed the name to March To The Grave and we’ve stuck with that since.” ‘Ever since’ is a bit longer than most musicians manage together - the band are only two years shy of their 30th anniversary, and 25 of those years were spent with the same fourpiece line-up as today. “There’s always dormant periods for the band down the years, having kids and that kind of thing, but we’ve never split up.” The punk scene of the late 1970s played a big part in their early years. “We were definitely involved in that, yeah. Being in a band suddenly became such a tangible prospect. You didn’t need to be a virtuoso playing 20-minute guitar solos to play punk - you could just pick up a guitar, learn a few chords and get on with it!” So how has the March to the Grave sound evolved over the years? “Things got a bit more rocky as we progressed as musicians,” recalls Rick, “but I don’t think we’ve changed all that much really!” Three decades performing in and around Stamford means the band have their fair share of memories of the town. “A lot of the venues we used to play have closed down or

transformed now,” says Rick. “There was a venue on St Peter’s Street that we used to play, that’s gone now. At one time, we had a residency at the London Inn - it’s still there but the focus is more on food now I think.” One of their favourite haunts used to be hidden down one of the winding alleys Stamford is known for. “Opposite St Mary’s Church, down a little alley near the music shop, there used to be a wine bar at the top of the spiral staircase. Coming out of a gig after a few beers I dropped my amplifier all the way down the stairs. It had been a combo but it lived on just as an amp after that!” As well as live performances, the band have done plenty of recording over the years. “I’ve still got some of our original vinyl stuff, then after that we did CDs, MP3s, and now we’ve gone full circle and we’re releasing music on vinyl again”. It came as no surprise to Rick when vinyl started experiencing a revival over the last few years. “I do like vinyl, I’ve kept all my old records over the years and still play them now. The thing you get with an album this is what we’re trying to recreate now - is you get a sleeve, you get all the info and artwork, the whole package. It’s not quite the same with MP3s. A lot of bands will include a download code with their records so you get he best of both worlds, I think that makes sense.” Rick and the band have been keen to embrace YouTube too. As well as amassing an impressive 2,444 followers on a channel showcasing their own music, Rick has written

music to soundtrack the YouTube channel of another Stamford success story. Colin Furze, whose videos showcase ‘crazy inventions and world record attempts, with a constant disregard for health and safety’, has an astonishing 4.3 million followers on the site, with his most popular video having been viewed more than 24 million times. “As Colin has got more and more popular he now releases a video every week, and I don’t write a song every week anymore, so he’s branched out to other music now - but we still write and record for that regularly”. As well as continuing to gig with March to the Grave - with an appearance at a Butlin’s punk weekender this summer confirmed - Rick has recently launched another new venture. The Wilbur Project, a four-piece based in the Rutland area, has two rules: “strict rhythm and blues, played hard and fast.” After almost three decades together, there’s no sign of slowing down just yet.

• March to the Grave on YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/marchtothegrave • Colin Furze on YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/colinfurze • The Wilbur Project: https://twitter.com/wilbur_project

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

Advertisement Feature

SELL YOUR HOME TO BUYERS THAT WILL BE CHAUFFEURED FROM PLATFORM TO PROPERTY. Moores are delighted to report that construction is underway on their new platform office at Peterborough railway station. The project is a truly local collaboration with design by local firm, Bertram Design who specialise in innovative, environmentally friendly buildings. The steel fabrication has been provided by Rutland Contracting Ltd, owned by Simon and Sally Hazard. “The platform projects are a really exciting development for us,” explains Vernon, “The Peterborough project is part of a rolling programme of new offices following on from the success of our first platform initiative in Grantham. Having signed an exclusive agreement with Network Rail we are near to completing an office at Newark Station and are also part of the redevelopment project underway at Market Harborough station where we will open another London platform branch by early 2018.”

OAKHAM IN THE NATIONAL SPOTLIGHT AGAIN! In a recent edition of the Sunday Times, Oakham was once again acknowledged as one of the very best places to live in Britain. This will come as no surprise to those who already enjoy the superb lifestyle, educational opportunities and transport links in the pretty market town but it seems the secret is out and buyers from all over the UK – especially London and the South East – are clamouring for property in this area.

COUNTRY LIFE MOVE TO THE COUNTRY SHOW With Rutland and Stamford now firmly established at the top of the list of desirable

locations, Managing Director, Vernon Moore is expecting record numbers of visitors to the Moores stand at the Country Life Move to the Country Show in Chelsea this month. Vernon will be showcasing a full portfolio of properties across the region to London buyers who are ready to move and prepared to pay full asking price for local homes.

“We are determined to keep extending our reach and raising awareness of Rutland and Stamford to clients further South. With the capital accessible in under an hour from Grantham and Peterborough, buyers are realising it’s entirely possible to live in this region and commute to London – that’s what makes this area so attractive.”

PROPERTY MATCHING MAKES IT EASY

The platform offices are proving very popular with clients from London and the South East. “We want to make it easy for visiting buyers to see as many suitable homes as possible. We collect visiting buyers on arrival and chauffeur them to viewings – a service which is much appreciated by buyers and vendors alike,” says Vernon. “Having offices in key stations mean parking is easy and we have immediate access to information.” As well as their own offices, Moores have established partnerships with the best estate agencies in the South East who will be extending the Moores platform model further down the East Coast line.

Need more information about buying or selling in the region? The Moores team are ready to help.

CONTACT: Moores Estate Agency has offices in London, Oakham, Stamford, Melton, Uppingham, and the London platforms of Peterborough and Grantham Railway Stations. Oakham Office – Tel: 01572 757979 Uppingham Office – Tel: 01572 821935 Stamford Office – Tel: 01780 484555 www.mooresestateagents.com

LOCAL HISTORY

All hail Stamford Arts Centre

Once upon a time, many moons ago (about 3,000), a comic opera was first performed in the town’s newly built Arts Centre called ‘Love in a village’. Since that performance in 1768 the 18th century building continued to attract locals with its eclectic line up of live theatre, music, film and dance. The townsfolk of Stamford, totally fulfilled from decades of theatrical entertainment and wondrous literature, lived happily ever after, brimming with artistic intent.

Stamford Georgian Festival

TAMFORD Arts Centre has been the cultural hub of our town for centuries and is definitely worth a visit. As you enter the main foyer you are very likely to encounter a lively and friendly reception amidst the general hubbub that defines any popular meeting place. To the left is the box office, with super helpful staff always on hand to book you tickets to one of the vast array of films and live performances shown almost daily. To your right, you’ll see the tables and chairs of the in-house, independent coffee shop which has been successfully run by Mel Warren and his tireless team for many years. Here families, friends, school pals and work colleagues often converge to grab a bite to eat and have a catch up under the gaze of the ever-changing local art displays. Also, of course, the ever helpful Tourist Office is based here. Regularly the foyer is bursting with eager theatre/cinema goers who congregate prior to the latest production. The Arts Centre boasts a 166-seat theatre which doubles up as a cinema. For an outlay of just £19 you can buy a single Artscene membership (double = £24); membership offers a small discount on tickets (£1 off evening performances and 50p off matinees), the advantage of priority bookings and the chance to book specific seats. “The Arts Centre building is owned by Burghley Estate and run by South Kesteven District Council,” explains Jo Dobbs, Audience Development Manager. “The ballroom is one of the oldest of its kind in the country and is dated circa 1720. Our beautiful ballroom hosts a variety of concerts including our classical music season that runs from October through to May, as well as dances and workshops and is available for hire.” In the past, the ballroom has been put to many uses including dog training, badminton classes and jumble sales and is still used as a polling station during general elections. In 1871 the theatre closed for a time, but was reopened due to the efforts of the Marquess of Exeter and has evolved ever since. Today it is a

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

regular venue for touring companies, many of national acclaim, ranging from performance poets to stand-ups, musicians to dance troupes. In addition, the resident Shoestring Theatre Company stages regular performances on site for five weeks each year. In 1998 the Centre began screening films and has latterly become the hub for local film buffs, running a comprehensive programme of listings which include all genres from Hollywood block-busters, British, European and Art House productions. In addition, the Centre streams live and pre-recorded performances of National Theatre Live, Bolshoi Ballet and various operatic productions. The main gallery exhibits an interesting and varied programme of contemporary works from local and international artists including photography, painting, textile, drawing and sculpture and is open from Monday to Saturday, 9.30am to 9pm and is free to look around. The Welland Valley Art Society manages the exhibitions in the Ante Room area and is always looking for new artists who are keen to exhibit their work. “Here at the Arts Centre, we pride ourselves on being very communityfocused and offer a comprehensive timetable of regular and one-off workshops and groups aimed at children and adults which include regular local festivals (e.g. the well-publicised Stamford Georgian Festival*) art sculpture, dance classes, drama workshops, Tumble tots, family open days and even Minions screenings! We are very family friendly and are really keen to get the next generation of people coming in and using the facilities,” adds Jo. • For more details about Stamford Arts Centre, or to book tickets at the box office, contact: www.stamfordartscentre.com or 01780 763203. *This year the Stamford Georgian Festival will run from 21-24 September.

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INTERIORS

The Hunter’s Interiors Online Shop Nicholas Rudd-Jones took a look at their new online shop at www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk

UNTER’S Interiors from their base in Uffington have become a highly-respected force in interior design in the region, offering interiors advice and bringing out the very best in homes both old and new. In the last year, they have brought their flair for selecting the very best to their online shop, in which they have brought together collections of items to finish off your home to perfection. The products online perfectly complement the in-store offering, allowing you to browse at your leisure across a broader range of fabulous products, many of them exclusive to Hunter’s. Categories include: ACCESSORIES – from Greek curve tables to candle holders, via a barbary partridge CUSHIONS – including fabulous butterfly and floral motifs FABRICS – how long have you got?! More than 80 varieties FURNITURE – be inspired by something classic, retro or modern LAMPS – the vital finishing touch for any rom PAINT – one of the biggest regional stockists of Zoffany paints RUGS – woven rugs in geometric styles WALLPAPER – put them on your IPad and hold them up to the wall to get an immediate sense of what will work. More than 40 different wallpaper stocked. You can have them delivered to your door, or if it’s more convenient for you Click and collect from Hunter’s Store • Online store at: www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk The Dairy, Copthill Farm, Deeping Road, Uffington, Stamford, PE9 4TD 01780 757946 Email: info@huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk Open: Monday – Friday 9:00am – 5:00pm, Saturdays 10:00am – 1:00pm

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

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WELL-BEING

New Listening Service to start at The Shack In the past 18 months since Mind Space (formerly known as the Stamford Mental Health Forum) was set up, many locals have already benefitted from its services in one way or another. Founder, GP, Dr Dan Petrie is keen to initiate and evolve more projects to ensure that the mental health of the town is protected. Kate Cadman investigates one of Mind Space’s latest projects to be given the go ahead.

RECENT donation of a sum of money by Stamford Burghley Rotary Club will help fund a new ‘Listening Service’, which will be set up and run by Mind Space and will provide a safe place for people to drop-in and talk to trained volunteers. The grant will go towards training up three or four mental health first aiders who will help to oversee the project. Mental Health First Aid is an educational course which teaches people how to identify the crucial warning signs of mental ill health. “The idea is to train an additional team of volunteers who will provide a listening service for people who are not coping well mentally. We are hoping to use The Shack on the Recreation Ground as a drop-in space for 1:1 listening sessions during the daytimes. We are really keen to get this project off the ground and are currently working with local charities - Mind and the Evergreen Care Trust - to set it up. Training for volunteer listeners will be provided over the summer.” “Plans are to extend this Listening Service support into GP surgeries, schools and colleges,” explains Dan. “We hope to attract volunteers of all ages - students might like to get involved as it will be something they can add to their CV.” In addition to this valuable new service, Mind Space is evolving in its own right. “We set up the first meeting because we needed a community response to mental health issues and locals just didn’t have a safe place to talk and be heard,” explains Dan. “Mind Space meet regularly at St George’s Church, and we are delighted to have recently unveiled our new name and logo, designed by Sophia Nesbitt, a Graphic Design student from New College Stamford.” One regular group born out of Mind Space is the SafeTea Café (initially called the Catch-up Café), which meets twice a month at The Fine Food Store on St Mary’s Street from 7.30-9pm (held on the second and last Thursday of each month). “People from all walks of life come along. It’s a safe space where there are no judgements. You can visit and you don’t even have to

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

join in - just be there. It’s a great experience to be involved in,” explains Jenny Holland, joint owner of The Fine Food Store. Jenny is currently retraining to be a psychotherapist and is completing her own research project on Community Therapeutic Spaces. Already there’s been masses of positive feedback about the SafeTea Cafe. Some visitors have severe anxiety, some are bereaved and it may be their first social trip post bereavement, whilst others may be struggling with depression, isolation or loneliness. Carers are welcome to visit and check out the group too. The SafeTea Café organisers are particularly keen to hear from local therapists who might like to offer free relaxing treatments (hand/head massages etc) at the dropin sessions. Karen Petrie, qualified counsellor - and Dan’s mum - pops in regularly too. “It’s lovely to have this central location. The group has a lovely vibe. It would be really good to get some youngsters involved to bridge the age gap. We do bring down board games for people to play and it’s been suggested that we bring cakes too.” “It’s a really good place for people to connect,” adds Dan. Other local initiatives tackling mental health issues include: Tastelife: An eightweek course which works with people to help break free of eating disorders. Contact Liz at St George’s Church for further details. Fineshade Wood runs volunteering

programmes many of which involve physical, outdoors work. Contact Cheryl Joyce for more information: E: cheryl.joyce@forestry.gsi.gov.uk; T: 07774 730212. Mind Space is hoping to set up a Men’s Shed project along with Age UK in Rutland to help prevent loneliness in older men. An initial meeting will take place this month. For more details contact Mind Space on the web address below. CONTACTS: Mind Space: www.stamfordmhforum.org St George’s Church: www.stgeorgeschurch. net/tastelife Fineshade Woods: https://www.forestry.gov. uk/fineshadevolunteering

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THE OLIVE BRANCH RECIPES

Al fresco season is here! The Olive Branch is now open all day, everyday, but head chef Sean Hope is still finding time to share his favourite recipes!

PRING has arrived and summer isn’t far away! That means light, zesty dishes like the one below – iced elderflower and Champagne soufflé – really come into their own, especially when served al fresco in the sunshine. I don’t want to blow our own trumpet too much, but the garden at The Olive Branch is looking beautiful right now!

A sunny garden is also the ideal place to enjoy a spot of that most English of treats, Afternoon Tea. As it happens, we’re now open here in Clipsham every afternoon, as well as each morning for breakfast. To celebrate, we’ve put together a tasty Afternoon Tea Menu (booking essential) where everything is homemade. We’re creating everything in-house, from the pistachio custard creams and lemon drizzle cake that come with your finger sandwiches, to the scones and jam that come with your clotted cream and tea (or Champagne)! PHOTOS: CLIVE DOYLE

Iced elderflower and Champagne soufflé Makes eight soufflés in ramekins • 3 gelatine leaves • 113ml water • 8 egg yolks • 280g caster sugar • 500ml Champagne/Prosecco • 4 teaspoons elderflower cordial • 4 egg whites • 340g whipping cream 1. Prepare the ramekins by placing a collar of parchment paper around them (2cm higher than the rim of the mould). Secure with sticky tape. 2. Pre-soak the gelatine in cold water for 10 minutes. 3. Place the sugar and water into a pan and bring to the boil. 4. Whisk the egg yolks until light and fluffy, then gradually add the hot sugar syrup. 5. Whisk to a light ribbon

stage, then gradually add the elderflower cordial. 6. Place the gelatine into a pan and heat to dissolve in a little of the Champagne, then mix in the remainder of the Champagne. 7. Place in the fridge to allow to set (beat occasionally) 8. Combine the egg yolk mixture with the Champagne mixture. 9. Whip the cream to stiff peaks, then fold gently through the mixture. 10. Whisk up the egg whites to stiff peaks, then fold through the mixture gently until light

and fluffy. 11. Carefully spoon the mixture into the lined ramekins and fill to the top, then level off straight with a palette knife. 12. Place the iced soufflés into the freezer overnight to set. 13. To serve, remove from the freezer and remove the paper collar. 14. Using a hot teaspoon, scoop out a spoonful of the middle and fill with a spoonful of gooseberry compote or a seasonal fruit compote of your choice. 15. Garnish with some sprigs of mint.

We’ve also put together an Afternoon Snack Menu (no booking required), which is served from 2-5pm Monday to Saturday. Our snacks include Olive Branch cheese & biscuits; sweetcorn soup with almond & chilli dressing (served hot or chilled); and scotched quail eggs with watercress and fennel salad.

The perfect wine match To go with the soufflé, we’d recommend Moscato d’Asti (Michele Chiarlo 2016). It’s a gently sparkling, naturally sweet Italian wine from Piedmont. It is low in alcohol (5% abv) and will be a great match with the elderflower flavours whilst cutting through the rich creaminess of the soufflé.

Upcoming wine events There are a number of wine events coming up this summer at The Olive Branch. On May 27 and July 29 we’re holding our Loire and Pinot Noir Saturday lunchtime Wine Masterclasses respectively. And on Thursday June 15 we’re hosting a seven-course wine dinner with Matt Sutherland of New Zealand’s Dog Point Vineyard. To book, call 01780 410355.

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STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

FOOD & DRINK

From Fly to Fork – Fishing on ‘the Big Puddle’ With the better weather hopefully here to stay Deborah Pennell escapes to the tranquil shores of Rutland Water to talk trout fishing with local fly fishing guru Rob Waddington, of Rutland Water Fly Fishing Adventures, and also snaffle some recipes for this under-used beauty.

S a lover of fish, I have eaten many a trout in my time – some tasteless, some muddy tasting and some fresh, delicate and with a taste of the wild. I am happy to have them served whole, with the head on, my husband is certainly not, but however you like your trout, we are all very fortunate to live near to possibly the finest trout lake in the UK. Mention Rutland Water to any fly fisher in this country and his or her eyes may glaze over. Fly fishers from all over Great Britain, Europe and further afield dream about its vast size (nearly 26 miles of shoreline), and the quality of its trout. These days all trout still waters are initially stocked from trout farms. However, what makes ‘The Big Puddle’ (Rutland Water’s local nickname) so special, is that these fish grow rapidly in such a rich environment. It is a paradise for trout, with space to roam the pure clean water, and masses of insects and small coarse fish to feed on. Rutland Water is famous for its ‘grown-on’ trout; fish that arrive at two pounds soon grow to three, four and five pounds plus, and there are many double figure trout lurking in the depths, waiting for a canny angler to catch them. These trout are magnificent to eat, firm deep-orange fleshed and as tasty as a salmon, a far cry from the muddy, earthy tasting fish that you

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

might sometime come across, which tend to be the ones straight out of a trout farm, still full of the pellet feed. In 2013, local fisherman Tom Cooper caught the largest fish recorded to date from Rutland Water, weighing in at a staggering 17lb 6¼oz (7.711kg)! With the trout fishing season running from 15th March to 6th October there are several options for fly fishers at Rutland Water. Either head to Edith Weston and hire one of their many small boats for a couple of hours or even all day, fish from the shore (bank fishing), or go to an expert like Rob Waddington and he will hire the boat for you and either coach you or guide you around the water, depending on how experienced a fisherman you are. All fishermen over the age of 12 require a permit to fish on Rutland Water and these are available from the fishing lodge at Edith Weston or from several self-service machines situated around the water. A rod fishing license is also required, which can be purchased from a Post Office or Anglian Water. For those people with a competitive spirit or just keen to give it a go, Rutland Water hosts regular competitions during the year including The Anglian Water Airflo International and The British Championships (by qualification or invitation only).

SO, WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR CATCH …

Rob Waddington talks me through how to Cold Oak-Smoke Trout

EPENDING how many fish you are going to brine and then smoke, use a ratio of approximately half sugar to salt. Fillet the fish, leaving the gill bone on (this is used to hang it up with later) – this is a time-consuming business so Rob suggests doing 20-30 fish at a time, as they will freeze perfectly for months. • Prepare a brine solution. • Put the salt in a container that will fit your catch and add half as much brown sugar. Add enough water to just cover the fish. The salt will start the curing process; the sugar gives a deeper colour and some extra taste. • Fillet the fish, leaving the gill bone on (you will use this to hang it up with later). Rob’s tip: “some people pull out the tiny pin bones with a clean pair of long-nosed pliers, but I don’t do this, I will take them out before serving the finished fish.” • Submerge the fillets in the brine solution (another way would be cover the fillets in dry salt with a mix of brown sugar), and leave in about 3 to 4 hours, depending on the size of fish. • Take out of the brine and wash off the salt solution. Leave to dry overnight. • Smoking cabinets come in all shapes and sizes and lots of people make their own. Rob has managed to construct his out of two old filing cabinets placed one on top of the other with some piping taking the smoke from one to the other, cooling it down in the process. He even improvises with the hooks for hanging the fish during smoking – making them out of old coat hangers, cut and bent into ‘S’ shapes. • Put a container full of wood dust or fine shavings, Oak is traditionally the best. Be careful the shavings you use are not too large as they will catch fire; the idea is to produce smoke, not flames. Rob uses a gas burner under a wire mesh pan, and as soon as the oak dust is smoking well, turn off the gas. One pan full of shavings takes about three hours to smoke through, you then need to fill it up and start again. • How long you smoke your fish depends on how strong tasting you like it. Rob suggests up to four days if you like a strong smoke. It will also depend on the size of your fish. • Once the smoking process is complete, unhook the fillets, trim off any excess bits, like the fins and the gill bones. It will be bitter to taste if used straight away, so leave to rest and the flavour develops nicely with time. • Coat each fillet with a bit of good olive oil, cut some fillets into individual portions seal in plastic bags and put in the deep freeze until you need them.

ROB’S RECIPES

Home smoked trout nibbles Mix together crème fraiche, seafood sauce, extra virgin olive oil, cracked black pepper, a good squeeze of lemon and a hefty dash of horseradish sauce. Place on a cracker, blini or toast. Place some thinly sliced oak smoked Rutland trout on the top and add a tiny drizzle of the olive oil, squeeze of lemon and a turn of fresh milled black pepper, garnish with sprig of parsley…. delicious, with some crisp, cold, sauvignon blanc.

The ‘famous’ Lodge Breakfast Slice some Oak smoked Rutland Trout, pull out any bones, put on a cold plate and drizzle lightly with extra virgin olive oil. Cut some small squares and strips of the trout and put in a pan with a chunk of butter and white pepper and a pinch of salt. Put the pan on a low heat till the butter melts and the trout infuses into the liquid. Add a couple of local free-range eggs. Stir and stir, until it is nearly cooked. Add a teaspoon and a half of crème fraiche, stir it in and add a bit more butter. This will make it so soft and velvety. Toast two slices of Hambleton bakery bread. Arrange the toast on a plate, pour on the scrambled eggs and lay on extra slices of smoked trout. Add a squeeze of lemon and a turn of fresh ground black pepper, serve with griddled tomato, and mushroom, and garnish with a bright green sprig of parsley. • For more information on fishing at Rutland Water go to: The Anglian Water Rutland Fishing Lodge at Edith Weston, Oakham, LE15 8HD 01780 686441 - for a wide range of permit options, fishing boat hire and tackle shop www.anglianwater.co.uk/leisure/ water-parks/rutland/fishing • Rob Waddington of Rutland Water Fly Fishing Adventures teaches all the skills and knowledge of the art of fly fishing on his fun and informative courses and guides more experienced fly fishers around the water. Call him on 07711 182853 www. rutlandwaterflyfishing.co.uk • Join local fishing club Rutland Water Fly Fishers www.rwff.org.uk • To stay at The Lodge at Barnsdale, Oakham, LE15 8AB 01572 722422 a beautiful four-star Lakeside B&B on the north shore of Rutland Water go to www.thelodgebarnsdale.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

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UPDATES A trout recipe from Barnsdale Lodge

Rutland Water Trout with caramelized fennel puree, Saffron potatoes, Razor clam vinaigrette and Black olive tapenade. Caramelized fennel 1 x Fennel head 1 x Banana shallot 100g caster sugar Saffron potatoes 5 large new potatoes Pinch saffron Salt Razor vinaigrette Bunch razors 100ml White wine Bay leaf Sprig of thyme Shollot 2 clove garlic 100ml chardonnay vinegar 6 sun blushed tomatoes 1 x lemon zest 300ml Olive oil 50g chopped herbs Chervil, dill, tarragon Tapenade 300g black olives 100g Capers 100g Anchovies

Barnsdale Lodge

Method Tapenade Put all ingredients in a blender Fennel Purée Fine dice fennel & shallots put in hot pan with sugar and a knob of butter until golden brown, add blitz Saffron potatoes Top and tail new potatoes, cut through with apple, cover, put in a small pan, cover in stock and add saffron, bring to the boil till soft. Razor Vinaigrette Steam razor clams in white wine, bay leaf, thyme, garlic, half the shallot, strain and leave to cool, keep the stock. When cooled shell clams leaving the white stem, slice thinly, put in to mixing bowl, dice shallot, sun blushed tomatoes, chopped herbs, mix, then add 100ml of the clam stock, 100ml of chardonnay vinegar, 300ml olive oil.

Secret Library

HEN the Deepings Library was threatened with closure the local council came up with the idea to use rental income from the upper floors for offices with the intention that the rent would pay for the librarian and the business would offer future local employment. That’s exactly what has been achieved by Secret Source, a marketing agency with a broad range of experience across many sectors. With a diverse range of existing clients, Paul and his team can draw on a wealth of expertise with a friendly and professional targeted approach to build a clear marketing plan. Many businesses get to the stage when they start to grow; they get to the point when a marketing strategy is crucial for growth and getting products to the right markets. For some small businesses or even inventors the owners or creators know little about marketing and have tried lots of things albeit inconsistently. Paul and his team will guide and focus a marketing plan to stick to, which will ensure budgets are adhered to and no time and effort is wasted. Secret Source can help: they are offering to look at local businesses’s marketing needs by offering SL readers a one hour Source-In plan review for the first five businesses that engage with them. A great opportunity to do more of the right marketing activity for your business by drawing on the expertise of a London style agency (but without the price that normally comes with it) as their outsourced marketing team or extension of their existing marketing team. Any business that’s growing quickly, needs a more predictable sales pipeline, or looking to attract investors, would really benefit. • Contact: Paul De Ath; Director; 07985 413450; paul@secretsourcemarketing.com; www.secretsourcemarketing.com

Book early for discounts on Summer Adventures P

UT some outdoor fun into your child’s school holiday with Rockblok Summer Adventure Club at Whitwell, Rutland Water. The carefully planned programmes aim to offer low cost activity days and offer the perfect solution to parents juggling work with summer fun. Whether you are looking for a single day’s activity or need to book consecutive days for your child, the Rockblok team are happy to help. A warm welcome is

guaranteed to all, with the Rockblok team dedicated to creating exciting and memorable experiences for children from aged 8 onwards. Supervisors, co-ordinators and instructors are DBS checked with the appropriate First Aid qualifications along with a wealth of experience in providing supervision and activities for young people. Rockblok instructors will guide adventurers in hands-on

outdoor activities including awareness games and challenges, natural crafts, shelter building, fire making, abseiling, high ropes, storytelling and more. Places are £30 per day with discounts available for early booking of three days or more. Rockblok Summer Adventure Club 2017 will run Monday to Friday from 24 July to 18 August between 8.30am and 4.30pm (pick up 5pm). • Contact Rockblok for more information, Tel: 01780 460060 or visit www.rockblok.com. STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

PROFILE

Dameon Clarke As Chef/Patron of The Wicked Witch at Rhyall, Dameon has worked under some extremely distinguished Head Chefs in his career, with the likes of Michel Roux Jnr and Gary Rhodes on his CV. But as Deborah Pennell finds out, he is now quite content running his own restaurant and treating the Stamford locals to some properly smart food at incredibly reasonable prices.

Tell me a little bit about yourself? I am originally from Coalville in Leicestershire but having travelled the world, my partner and I chose Stamford as our home. Victoria is originally from Newcastle and we met while travelling in Mexico. Where did you train to become a chef? I trained at Coalville catering college, and soon picked up a job in the butchery department of the local Co-op, which taught me some amazing skills. What jobs have you had since working as a Chef? In 2003 I left the UK for four and a half years in Australia where I managed to pick up a couple of great jobs; working for three years at Tetzuya’s during the time it was awarded the fourth best restaurant in the world, and a stint at Cruise in Sydney. After leaving Australia I travelled through Asia before returning to the UK. On my return, I had spells working for Michel Roux Jnr at The Gavroche and for Gary Rhodes in Edinburgh as well as time in both Jersey and Dublin. As Head Chef of The Wicked Witch since 2012 you took over ownership of the business in October 2014. When the previous owners decided to sell the business, I saw a great opportunity. I found myself a business partner and we haven’t looked back. Give me an interesting fact about the kitchens at The Wicked Witch As a trained butcher, I always get my carcasses whole and do all the butchery myself. What is the most popular dish on the menu and how often do you change the menu? The menu changes weekly so it is difficult to say what the most popular dish is, but I am regularly asked for my chicken liver parfait and scotch eggs. We also supply the local village shop with a delicious range of foods such as sausage rolls, Thai chicken curry, and sweet tarts. Who is your favourite celebrity Chef? My complete hero is Marco Pierre White. However, recently quite a few of my mates, who are chefs, have been appearing on BBC2’s Great British Menu, and they have been amazing – being put in the spotlight, cooking for harsh critics and holding it all together really shows true professionalism and enormous self belief.

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

Have you ever cooked for anyone famous? I have cooked for a number of famous people over the years, most notably Alex Ferguson, Victoria and David Beckham, and HM The Queen, when I was working at The Jersey Potteries. Most terrifying of all was cooking for Marco Pierre White himself. If you were stranded on a desert island what three ingredients would you long to have with you? On the basis that the sea surrounding the island would be full of delicious fish, and hoping there might be some coconut trees, I think I would take Thai Green Curry paste, mangoes, because I absolutely love them, and coffee. If you had to choose a favourite meal, what would it be? Like most chefs, it appears to be the simplest things done really well that appeal - Dameon suggested Steak and chips with brown sauce or béarnaise, followed by Sticky Toffee pudding. As he explained “I don’t mind paying £50 for a steak as long as it’s a good one, and so often I am disappointed.” And finally, what are your interests outside of work? I really enjoy a game of Football and going for a drink with the boys. This doesn’t happen very often but it is nice to do it when I have a bit of free time. Family is very important to me, so I love spending time with Victoria and our two children. • To sample some of Dameon’s wonderfully creative and exceptionally delicious dishes, call to reserve a table at: The Wicked Witch, Bridge Street, Rhyall, PE9 4HH 01780 763649 www.thewickedwitchexperience.co.uk Mon: Closed All Day Lunch: Tues - Fri 12pm - 2pm Sat - Sun 12pm - 2:30pm Dinner: Tues - Sat 6pm - 9:30pm

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EATING OUT

Zada, St Mary’s Hill

Bridget Steele heads out with friends to try out Zada for the first time

ADA, specialising in Turkish cuisine, only opened eighteen months ago and has already made its mark having been recommended in the 2017 Michelin Guide (in which it says “its name means ‘fortunate’ and the locals (that’s us) are lucky to have it in town.”) We booked a table for a Wednesday evening, arriving at 7.30pm the restaurant had a comfortable buzz and a delightful ambience with its jewelled lampshades and beautiful artefacts hanging on the wall. Iva is in charge of front of house and looked after us well – she explained that everything is made in the restaurant using authentic Turkish recipes often passed down through generations. The menu is extensive so it seemed a good idea to share a mixed Meze Platter – the lightest softest flat bread (made that morning) was served with Hummus, Tzatziki, Taramosalata, Babaganush, Turk Borek (Feta pastries) Falafel, Sucuk (beef sausage) , Hellim and Head Chef Ali’s homemade Chilli sauce and yogurt sauce. Overwhelmed slightly by the quantity, we did well – everything was full of flavour and a great way to experience

the many dishes. For our main course, we were able to try Lamb Shish, a Yavash meat platter, and Sebzeli Iskelder (charcoal grilled vegetables with Halloumi, tomato and yogurt sauce) with side dishes of rice and salad. The meat is all cooked on a charcoal grill, giving it a wonderful succulence and flavour - it was all delightfully flavoursome and colourful food perfect for sharing. To finish we enjoyed a Turkish dessert plate with Turkish Delight, Baklawa and fresh fruit with a glass of refreshing Turkish Chai. We are already looking forward to our next visit – There are two set menu feast options from £29.95 per person and lots of options for vegetarians and special diets. • For more information contact Zada, 13 St Mary’s Hill, Stamford, PE9 2DP 01780 766848 www.zadarestaurant.co.uk

Kings Head, Stamford Dining with Paul Morriss, illustrator Tony Ross, and his partner Wendy Finney, Victoria Magnall discovers the delights on offer at the Kings Head, now under new management

AKING over the helm of a well-established pub, such as the Kings Head, could cause many landlords a few sleepless nights. This has not been the case for Stephen Alcock and his family Annie, Noah and Alfie, who have already created a warm and welcoming haven. The popular King’s Head ranks highly on a Google search with glowing TripAdvisor reviews. It is a flagship pub in Stamford, frequented by locals and visitors alike. The compact space is well utilised to afford a snug section, restaurant and a tiny, but stunning walled garden. Booking is highly recommended as this popular venue is often fully booked throughout the week. Chef, Adam Sharp, is known for creating traditional pub fayre to an excellent standard as well as technical dishes that feature on the specials board. My friends and I dined on the Thursday ‘burger’ evening where the burgers (made from Nelson mince) are freshly cooked on the premises and the selection of toppings is endless. However, several of us opted for the fish of the day: a seared fillet of swordfish served with new

potatoes, sun dried tomatoes and a delicious caper chilli butter sauce. Sundays are also very busy for Stephen and his team as the King’s Head roast dinners are legendary, gracing Instagram the second the food is presented! The menu is seasonal and locally sourced, changing every fortnight to ensure regulars enjoy a wide variety of choice. The King’s Head is a pub that ticks every box, regardless of the weather. On a cold winter’s day, it is the perfect place to sit by the fire savouring a favourite tipple. The fabulous pile of pub games keeps the whole family happy. Having learnt to play ‘Shut the Box’ here, my son Fabian is now a master! The first sign of sun and guests are able to bask in the sun trap garden. The walled garden is a very special hideaway, often left undiscovered by visitors as it is so well hidden. Pretty fairy lights and a natural décor of hanging figs makes this special place a jewel in Stamford’s crown. • King’s Head, 19 Maiden Ln, Stamford PE9 2AZ 01780 753510 STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

GET MOVING

Bouncing the belly off Georgie Fenn goes along to the new fitness phenomenon on a trampoline

ET me just start by giving you a very brief overview of my own fitness before I tell you about ((BOUNCE)). I ride horses almost every day of the week, run slightly less frequently; I’m a generally active person and have done Rat Race, Tough Mudder and The Great Eastern Run in the past few years. However, despite what I thought was an acceptable level of fitness, nothing could have prepared me for Stamford’s ((BOUNCE)) class I went to. I’m not exaggerating when I say it’s four days since the class and I’m still having difficulty taking a sip of tea and more importantly wine, because my bingo wings are still crying. Despite the pain I’m in, I plan to go back every single Monday because I had so much fun, and you know what they say about muscle pain? It means it’s actually working, no pain no gain and all that. ((BOUNCE)) isn’t a new idea, it’s been around for a while now and we’ve got Michelle Fitzmaurice to thank for bringing the total body workout to Stamford. ((BOUNCE)) is a form of exercise known as rebounding and it may not surprise you that NASA has been getting their astronauts fit this way since the 80s. As the scientists returned from space, NASA would help them build their strength back up using rebounding. They believe that bouncing provides better all round benefits that running, weight lifting and isometric exercise. It has also been proven to strengthen bone mass, and stimulate your lymphatic system due to the pumping effect jumping up and down has on your body. So what happens at a ((BOUNCE)) class? Well, it all started with the

lights on and as things got a bit more, well, heated I suppose, the lights went out, the disco lights materialised and dance music started blaring out. As ((BOUNCE)) is a full body work out, Michelle took us through a variety of different exercises which according to the pain I’m in, used every single muscle in the body including your abs, love handles, bingo wings, shoulders, bottom and thighs. There are breaks in-between each section of music (around 15 minutes on each) so that you can have a stretch and a drink and then you get going again. You have a very pleasant stretch at the end of the class and then you’re free to waddle back to your car feeling very pleased with yourself. The presenters were recently saying on Radio 1 how back in the day, one didn’t need to go to the gym because you’d rave at a club until the early hours of the morning burning calories dancing, catch a few hours sleep and head to work. These days, we don’t really have that clubbing scene, especially in Stamford, so ((BOUNCE)) essentially replaces raving, just minus the drugs and alcohol. Over the whole session, I burned off around 700 calories, and it was far more enjoyable than dragging myself out on an 8 mile run. Everyone was really supportive and friendly and I found the whole experience far less intimidating that walking into a gym. The beauty of ((BOUNCE)) is that it’s open to everyone; old, young, slim, curvaceous, men and women, you’re all welcome as long as you are looking for a bit of exercise, weigh under 125kg and want to see instant results on your body.

Help raise £108,000 to fund two new Macmillan Professionals - join the BPE Macmillan Way Challenge this summer A fundraising party of over two hundred supporters from across the country will be walking the 297 mile Macmillan Way this July in an attempt to raise £108,000 for the charity. The route starts in Boston and ends on the Dorset Coast. Organiser Rob Bryan says: “We will be walking through Lincolnshire and Rutland between Saturday 1st and Thursday 6th July, taking in Surfleet, Thurlby and Stamford, before heading for Oakham past Rutland Water. It would be fantastic to see as many people as possible from the area come out and join us for a small part of the route. How to get involved Rob is hoping that everyone walking will raise £297 for the campaign and each sponsor will sponsor at least £29.70. He is inviting everyone to get involved by: • Joining him on the walk, taking in all or some of the route; • Sponsoring him (or friends and family) to do the walk • Local companies offering corporate sponsorship and encouraging colleagues and employees to get involved. • For more information about how you can get involved, visit www. macmillanwalk.uk or email macmillanchallenge@bpe.co.uk. For donations, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/MacmillanWayChallenge

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

THE CLASSES ARE AS FOLLOWS: Mondays 7 – 8pm - ((BOUNCE)) at Rhino’s Gymnasium, 22 Gwash Way Tuesdays 6:30pm-7:30pm - ((BOUNCE)) at Rhino’s Gymnasium, 22 Gwash Way 7:30pm – 8:30pm - ((BOUNCE)) at Rhino’s Gymnasium, 22 Gwash Way Thursdays 6:30am-7:15am – ((BOUNCE BLAST)) in Stamford, Rhino’s Gymnasium Peterborough South Wednesdays 7pm - 8pm - ((BOUNCE)) Ormiston Bushfield Academy, Ortongate Wednesdays 8pm - 8:45pm ((BOUNCE BLAST)) Ormiston Bushfield Academy, Ortongate Peterborough North Mondays 7pm - 8pm - ((BOUNCE)) The Voyager Academy, Mountsteven Avenue Thursdays 10:30am - 11:15am ((BOUNCE BAMBINO)) - For children, The Voyager Academy, Mountsteven Avenue Thursdays 7pm - 8pm - ((BOUNCE)) The Voyager Academy, Mountsteven Avenue • Single sessions are £6.95 or it’s £13.50 if you bring a friend. Visit www.bouncefitbody.com to book and to find out more info.

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PEOPLE

Rev Richard Coles The thoroughly modern Vicar of Finedon tells Sue Dobson how he juggles a life in the media, being a parish priest and reaching out into the community

EVEREND Richard Coles seems to be everywhere – including Oundle in July, when he’ll be in conversation with local author Adam Begley at the Oundle International Festival. On radio he co-hosts the weekly Saturday Live programme, essential listening for Radio 4 aficionados (“I’m endlessly curious about people’s lives, so it suits me admirably”) and regularly features in Pause for Thought on the Chris Evans Breakfast Show on Radio 2 (“nice and quirky, not your average God Slot”). He pops up on television in Have I Got News For You, Newsnight Review and QI. He won BBC’s Celebrity Mastermind quiz, did remarkably well on Celebrity Masterchef (“loved it!” he says with glee) and has recently kept viewers engaged with BBC 1’s The Big Painting Challenge. “That was wonderful, seeing people discovering a talent deep within themselves. Art makes us look at the world differently.” He’s written several books – the latest, Bringing in the Sheaves, was published last autumn – writes for various media, appears at book festivals, hosts awards ceremonies and is much in demand for his witty and wise afterdinner speeches. So how does the Vicar of St Mary the Virgin, Finedon, fit all this in? “Other than Saturday Live, most of what I do on radio and television is pre-recorded, a process that can be spread over a year or more, but as the panel games are constantly rotated on one channel or another, I appear to be doing more than I really am,” he says. “I’m actually in Finedon a lot more than people think.” He knew when he moved back to Northamptonshire in 2011 that he would be paid a half-stipend – “but of course there’s no such thing as a half-time job!” – which suited the church/media mix of his life. “My parishioners are very understanding about my absences, but I’m conscious that there’s always more to do. Most priests feel haunted by jobs not done.” The media activities keep him in the public eye but he actually packs in a lot more for subjects very close to his heart. He’s on the board of Wellingborough Homes, a

“My parishioners are very understanding about my absences, but I’m conscious that there’s always more to do. Most priests feel haunted by jobs not done”

Tickets are already sold out for Rev Richard Coles’ appearance at Oundle’s Stahl Theatre on Monday 10 July, where he’ll be interviewed by friend and author Adam Begley. We’re told there’s a waiting list for any returned tickets – to find out more on this and other Oundle International Festival Events see www.oundlefestival.org.uk

social enterprise providing housing and community support for the borough of Wellingborough, and speaks at bigcompany conferences on diversity, inclusion, trust, ethics and philanthropy. Now he has another role – as the new Chancellor of the University of Northampton. “I’m very thrilled about that,” he says. “Higher education, housing, building and engaging in communities interest me greatly and the university is actively involved in all of these. It also takes a leading role in the county that’s special to me, being born, bred and rooted here.” Richard was awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the university in 2012 (and received an Honorary D.Litt last year from the University of Warwick) but what he’s enjoying most is “a sense of continuity. When my father retired after a lifetime in the shoe manufacturing business, he fulfilled a long-held ambition to study for a degree in English, which he did at what is now the University of Northampton.” Last year Richard took a three-month sabbatical that allowed him to co-host The Big Painting Challenge and join a small ship as a lecturer, cruising around Scotland and up to the Faroe Islands and Iceland. “That was a delightful experience, with perfect weather and congenial company. Difficult not to have cream tea every day though,” he says, ruefully patting his waistline. “As the only passenger who was allowed to go crew-side, I was able to meet people who labour behind the scenes and marvelled at their skills.” Richard and his partner David share The Vicarage with four exuberant dachshunds: Daisy, Pongo (left, also known as William), Audrey and Horatio (usually called H). Walking with the dogs in the countryside around Finedon is a favourite pastime. Warm and thoughtful, with a self-deprecating sense of humour and a voice that’s a pleasure to listen to, the Reverend Richard Coles is endlessly interested in people and their stories. “There were some fascinating characters in the history of shoemaking in Northamptonshire,” he muses. “I’m toying with a novel.”

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

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ASK LEO

WALLED GARDENS Walled gardens have come in many forms and sizes in British gardens. Sue Lee and Jean Orpin consider their history and describe some local examples including some you can visit.

The Past Walled enclosures for privacy and plant protection go back as far as history. Some of the earliest identified belonged to monasteries, by nature enclosed, where there were gardens for medicinal plants, produce and exercise. Illustrated manuscripts show devotional and pleasure gardens including flowers, turf seats, arbours and trellises in both monasteries and castles. As private houses became more sophisticated, gardens were created to be viewed from the living quarters, a terrace or ‘mount’. The Tudors and Stuarts created large walled gardens with covered galleries, topiary, painted heraldic beasts and later knot gardens. There were famous gardens at Cardinal Wolsey’s Hampton Court and Lord Burghley’s Theobalds. During the 17thC the import of new plants and exotic

fruits gave the impetus for technological innovations, protective walls and glass houses. When landscape gardens became the order of the day kitchen gardens, carefully sited, were built well away from grand houses. By the 19thC such kitchen gardens, with their glasshouses, supplied every need including bedding and cut flowers. These became objects of pride to be displayed to visitors with the Head Gardener’s job carrying responsibility and prestige. Not just stately homes but smaller country houses, manor houses and rectories had smaller versions. Up to 1914 garden technology continued to develop and new walled pleasure gardens were becoming popular again. Sadly, WWI put an end to this - taking away gardeners, killing young heirs and heralding a long decline hastened by WW2. But it wasn’t the end of walled gardens.

Burghley House In 1689 joint monarchs William and Mary created their 6-acre kitchen garden at Hampton Court. Fifteen years later a garden that was to be twice that size was installed by the 6th Earl of Exeter at Burghley House. It was a good mile from the house and at its full extent, contained six compartments surrounded by brick walls and an adjoining orchard. Sheds, glasshouses, an irrigation system and a Head Gardener’s house were added. The latter survives and other buildings remaining include an apple store with mushroom sheds underneath. The garden was last used for for production before WW1 when up to 18 gardeners were employed. The estate has very recently undertaken a magnificent restoration of the garden. The walls have all been repaired and the whole area landscaped. It took nine trials to get the mixture for the lime mortar and 220,000 new bricks were required. All the wooden gates have been replaced. Some old fruit trees have been retained and new ones added in the orchard, espaliered on the walls and along an arched fruit walk. Many of these are old varieties. Within one compartment a nuttery with cob, hazel and walnut trees has been planted. Now the work is complete, the estate is considering various options for the use of the walled garden in the future.

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

The Present Some walled gardens survived as market gardens but their first revival came in the 1960s with an interest in garden history. Queen Eleanor’s Garden at Winchester and the gardens of Hatfield House were historical recreations by charismatic enthusiasts, Sylvia Landsberg and the Marchioness of Salisbury. They inspired others and have been followed by numerous historical restorations, the most famous being Heligan. History and education provided the motivation for many walled gardens to come alive again and they have now lent themselves to many other uses. They have proved good sites for garden centres; they are home to wedding venues, mazes, camping, glamping, vineyards and even tea production. Several have charitable uses for horticultural therapy and although full production is rare, some have been brought back into use as shared allotments or to grow fruit, vegetables and flowers for sale. Owners have found that growing conditions in walled gardens, large and small, lend themselves to the creation of new pleasure gardens. Old styles mixing ornamental and productive plants, such as at Houghton Hall, have come back into fashion; while 21stC designs like that of Piet Oudolf at Scampston give new forms to walled gardens.

LOCAL WALLED GARDENS TO VISIT

The Old Vicarage, Burley-on-the-Hill Rutland LE15 7SU - 1.30-5pm 28th May, 6-9pm 28th June The vicars of Burley in the past had 3 acres of garden which have been redesigned in the 21stC with terraces, hedges, borders, a rill and rose gardens. Brick walls enclose a substantial area of the garden and this has now become an ornamental kitchen garden. Grapes, peaches and nectarines are grown in the vine house then there are vegetable beds, herbs, flowers for cutting, salad leaves, tomatoes and all sorts of fruit. A very decorative as well as productive mixture. Blatherwycke Hall Gardens off A43 PE8 6YW (NGS) - 11am-4pm 23rd July The Hall was demolished in the 1940s and its 4-acre kitchen garden left derelict. In 2011 Joe Whitehead, once a gardener at Burghley and now of Garden Wise based at Blatherwyke started caring for the garden. Trees, rubble, rubbish and ivy have gone; the remains of a crinkle-crankle wall has been uncovered and the garden is home to fruit, wild flowers, borders, vegetables, a parterre and pleached lime hedges. Every year sees progress continuing.

Elton Walled Garden Centre PE8 6SH - 9am5.30pm Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm Sun The Garden Centre occupies much of the old walled kitchen garden of Elton Hall and it retains many features of its former use. The current occupiers, who took on the area in 2013, are very interested in the garden’s history and can point out features such as the location of the boiler for the hot wall. These metal brackets in the old slip yard, now the car park, are an unusual survival probably from the late 19thC. They held glass panels that could be installed when needed to protect blossom from frost, then moved along or removed altogether as the season progressed. Plans are afoot to restore part of the garden as a productive kitchen garden.

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Little Ponton Hall near Grantham NG33 5BS Open Day 25th June In the 19thC a succession of Head Gardeners came to Little Ponton from all over the country but most of the under-gardeners were local. The two youngest in their teens were generally accommodated in the bothy. Two boys who were at the local school together in 1841 were still working in the garden as labourers 40 years later. They would recognise the Victorian greenhouses and the dovecote in the walled kitchen garden where vegetables are still grown. Easton Walled Garden Nr Grantham (signed to Easton from B6403) – Wed-Sun, March to Oct Work on restoration of this unusual survival from the Tudor and Jacobean periods began in 2001. At that time the enclosed area was completely overgrown and the hard structure in a very poor condition. Since then “family members and their gardeners have created parkland, moved a river, built bridges, walls and ornamental outbuildings”. The garden was sited so that it could be viewed from the house which formerly stood on the slope above. It can still be viewed from above and explored on the ground. It is fascinating to see its revival with old features sometimes given a modern twist.

Open this summer - some other walled gardens within an hour of us Boughton Gardens, near Kettering NN14 1BJ - 12noon-5pm 1-31 August only Extensive restored landscape garden and a lovely walled garden with herbaceous borders and a Sensory Garden Kirby Hall near Corby NN17 3EN daily 10am-6pm Wed-Sun Like Easton this garden was intended to be viewed from the Long Gallery above. Once described as the finest garden in England,

the part nearest the Hall was re-created a few years ago. Kelmarsh Hall south of Mkt Harborough NN6 9LY - 11am-5pm Sun, Tues-Thurs & BH Mon Lovely gardens inspired by Nancy Lancaster surround a triangular walled garden growing produce that can be purchased in the shop. Dahlias are a speciality seen at their best in September. STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

OUT & ABOUT Amander Meade selects the best entertainment in the region this month Sunday 30 April and Monday 1 May EVENT: Scarecrow Weekend A traditional event featuring ‘Numbers’ themed scarecrows as part of a trail around the village with prizes to be won. Visitors will also find classic cars, homemade refreshments, pets, ponies, white elephants, stalls, books, crafts, face painting, car boot sale, maypole dancing, a flypast and much more. Uffington Village £5 per car, £2.50 on foot. All proceeds to village charities. Monday 1 to Saturday 13 May, daily 10am to 5pm EXHIBITION: Celebration of Spring The Welland Valley Art Society’s May exhibition showcases work in a wide variety of styles by amateur and professional artists from the area. Most is for sale. Stamford Arts Centre Admission is free. Thursday 11 May, 7.30pm EVENT: Annual General Meeting The Stamford & District Local History Society is holding its AGM along with a short illustrated talk on Stamford. Refreshments will be served from 7pm and all are welcome. Stamford Methodist Church Rooms, Barn Hill Admission is free. Saturday 13th May, 7.30pm EVENT: Music at St Martins St Martin’s Church shall be welcoming the stunning classical accordionist, Bartosz Glowacki who will play a programme of classical works from Scarlatti to Piazzolla by courtesy of the prestigious Countess of Munster Musical

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2017

Trust. Young people under 18 are particularly welcome and can take advantage of the new Complimentary Youth Card available from Stamford Music Shop. The card allows free entry to all Music at St Martin’s concerts during 2017. Tickets are £12, (concessions available) in advance from Stamford Arts Centre or on the door. Stamford Methodist Church, Barn Hill. More information on the concert series at www. musicatstmartins.org Sunday 14 May, 10am to 4pm EVENT: The Stamford Garden & Food Fair Now in its fifth year, the fair is a free community event and fun day, designed to offer

something for all the family. Whether you are a keen gardener or a foodie, beginner or expert, the show aims to provide entertainment and an opportunity to stock up on plants, good food, garden supplies and local produce. Organised by the Rotary Club of Stamford St. Martin’s, entertainment includes plant stalls, children’s games, food stands, specialist growers and much more. Stamford Meadows Admission is free with donations to the Rotary Club charities appreciated.

Thursday 4 May, 7.30pm EVENT: Dr John Cooper Clarke Live John Cooper Clarke shot to prominence in the 1970s and since then his career has spanned cultures, audiences, art forms and continents. Today, he is considered as relevant and vibrant as ever, and his influence just as visible on today’s pop culture. With his poetry included on the national curriculum syllabus, his effect on modern culture is still huge. His latest show is a mix of classic verse, extraordinary new material, hilarious ponderings on modern life, good honest gags, riffs and chat. Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre Tickets £24.50/£20 Tel: 01780 766455 www.stamfordcornexchange.co.uk

Saturday 6 May, 7.30pm EVENT: The Houndogs Album Launch Peterborough band, The Houndogs are three brothers who have a huge following all over the UK, playing their own unique style of Rockabilly and Rock ‘n’ Roll. They are known for their lively, energetic shows where just about anything can happen. The show is not restricted to just Rock ‘n’ Roll fans, this is an evening that everyone can enjoy when the band will launch their long awaited new album. Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre Tickets £12.50 Tel: 01780 766455 www.stamfordcornexchange.co.uk

Saturday 13 May, 7.30pm RECITAL: Vienna Gold As part of the Oundle Festival, Uppingham violinist Freya Goldmark will perform the Gold and Silver Waltz by Lehar, Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto and Symphony No1 ‘Titan’ by Mahler. Paul Hilliam will conduct. St Peter’s Church, Oundle Tickets are £11/£9 in advance with children and full time students £3 from Oakham Wines or Oundle Box Office, Tel: 01832 274374.

➧

Garden Open Day

Milton Hall (Peterborough PE3 9HD)

By kind permission of Sir Philip and Lady Isabella Naylor-Leyland

Sunday 14th May 2017 In conjunction with

MILTON SHOW Gardens open from 11am – 4pm. Lakeside Walk – Formal Walled Garden – Kitchen Garden Plant Stall

SUMPTUOUS CREAM TEAS IN THE ORANGERY Admission £5 per car including driver. £2 each extra Adult. Children free. Includes entry into Milton Show (Gate opens from 8:00 am)

DOGS WELCOME INCLUDING: Horse & Pony Competitions, Dressage, Dog Agility Demonstrations, Mini Clear Round Cross Country, Vintage Tractors, Family Dog Show, Trade Stands, Tours of the Hunt Kennels and more. 89

OUT & ABOUT Amander Meade selects the best entertainment in the region this month Sunday 28 May and Monday 29 May EVENT: The Living Heritage Game and Country Show A large Country Fair with four main arenas presenting country sports and pursuits at their very best. Try out lots of country sports such as clay shoot, airguns, archery, fishing and a large selection of dog events. Enjoy all the other show features such as the Craft Village, Food Show with chef demonstrations, falconry, vintage vehicles, or relax in the food courts. Burghley Park For tickets please contact Living Heritage Tel: 01283 820548 or visit www.livingheritagecountryshows.co.uk

Wednesday 31 May, 11am and 2pm FAMILY SHOW: The First Hippo on the Moon From bestselling children’s author David Walliams comes an explosively funny space adventure for children of 3 and over. Two big hippos with one enormous dream. Who can make it to the moon first? Adapted for the stage by acclaimed award winning theatre company Les Petits this is a fantastical adventure featuring puppetry, music, mayhem and a giant space race to the moon. Stamford Arts Centre Tickets £12 (£40 for family ticket for four) Tel: 01780 763203 www.stamfordartscentre. com

Sunday 14 May, 3pm MUSIC: Cry Me A River with Miss Scarlett Black Miss Scarlet Black and her live jazz band present a concert of heart-warming jazz hits. With a special male guest vocalist, this magical night of music is not to be missed. Scarlett will pay tribute to some of her favourite artists with some of the very best hits from Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday and Louis Armstrong. Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre Tickets £16 Tel: 01780 766455 www.stamfordcornexchange.co.uk

Looking ahead….dates for your summer festival diary The Oundle International Festival Tickets are on sale now for Oundle’s popular music and arts festival which takes place between 7 and 15 July. The 2017 programme includes concerts by world class musicians, rising stars and local performance groups, an art exhibition by local artists, Oundle Open Gardens, two successful authors in conversation, film screenings, walks and talks. Now in its 33rd year, the Festival provides a fantastic opportunity to see internationally recognised performers on a local stage so book early and make the most of it. Further information and tickets are available online at www.oundlefestival.org.uk, by calling 01832 274734 or by visiting the Oundle Festival Box Office, 4 New Street, Oundle, PE8 4EA. Stamford Georgian Festival Celebrity speakers, Georgian science and superb street entertainment will make September’s Stamford Georgian Festival an unmissable weekend. The event (September 2124) will see popular features return, including the sell-out Georgian Costume Ball and colourful street markets with the re-enactment of the traditional Bull Run taking on a new slant. The last festival in 2015 was a superb event attracting huge crowds and boosting local businesses to the tune of an estimated £1m as well as the boost to civic pride and an even higher profile for Stamford as England’s finest stone town. Look out for more details over the coming months and the event brochure which is out now. www.stamfordgeorgianfestival.co.uk

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