Stamford Living August 2011

H E L P I N G Y O U T O G E T T H E M O S T O U T O F L I V I N G L O C A L LY

STAMFORD Living

Summer Fun

Food and Favours

Health & Beauty

The experts recommend

Fermyn Woods

Robin Hood was here

ÂŁ1.50 August 2011

@LocalLivingUK

www.bestlocalliving.co.uk 08

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Cross Farm, Harringworth

£565,000

A beautiful Stone built farmhouse situated right in the heart of this delightful conservation village. The family sized accommodation provides spacious rooms throughout including Living room, Family room, dining room , Kitchen/breakfast room. Utility room, 4 double bedrooms. Large barn attached.

The Old School, Greatford

Unusual opportunity to purchase a former village school. Renovated to provide a delightful home with many character features throughout. Living room with minstrels gallery 2 bedrooms, bath and shower rooms, sitting room ‘farmhouse’ kitchen.

Courtyard garden and off road parking.

Elton Road, Wansford

£750 pcm

Ryhall Road, Stamford

Pr

£625 pcm Pr

op Let er – S tie im s R ila eq r ui re d

Pretty stone cottage in a tucked away position.

Delightful village location with good local facilities. Renovated accommodation briefly comprising: Entrance Hall, Living Room with inglenook fireplace, Kitchen, Dining Room. Two Double Bedrooms. Shower Room and En-suite Bathroom. Small Garden Area and Off Road Parking

£425,000

op Let er – S tie im s R ila eq r ui re d

This character mid-terraced home is within walking distance of the town centre and offers good sized living accommodation throughout which briefly comprises: Entrance Hall, Sitting Room, Dining Room, Inner Hall, fitted Kitchen, Utility Room, Bathroom with shower over, Two Double Bedrooms and One Single/Study.

Parking and lovely sunny garden to rear.

2/3 St Johns Street Stamford PE9 2DA

Sales: 01780 750000 Lettings: 01780 750001 2

Email: info@goodwinpropertyservices.co.uk www.goodwinpropertyservices.co.uk

• SL August ADS.indd 2

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STAMFORD LIVING Hello

W W W . BE S T L O C A L L I V I N G . C O . U K

This issue

Cover shot:

Nicholas Rudd-Jones Editor

Subscribe to Stamford Living

Dottie Photography, Tel: 01945 773368, http:// www.dottiephotography.co.uk/

August

Phone hacking, freedom of the press and democracy Most people have been alarmed by the phone hacking scandal that has swept across the media world with such speed, and outraged by the hacking of victims’ phones and payments to police.

A few people ruefully point out that eavesdropping by the press has been going on for decades (remember David Mellor, his Chelsea kit and the bugged phone?) and that the freedom of the press remains vitally important.

But whatever side you come down on, there is one thing on which we can hopefully all agree.

How much better not to have the political classes apparently beholden to the Murdoch empire (from Thatcher onwards through Conservative and Labour Prime Ministers). We want the press to root out stories and to uphold democracy (along now with Facebook and Twitter).

So (in the longer term at least) three cheers for the extraordinary events of the last month, it will make the country a better place.

@LocalLivingUK

UPFRONT, SHOPPING

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Monty’s Guitars repair service; Geocaching; local what’s on Mark Elliott moves to bigger premises; North’s Shoes comes to Stamford; new Riverside venue

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

34 SUMMER CELEBRATION FOOD

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10 14 17

Health & beauty: The experts recommend ‘My favourite treatment’ Fashion: Summer swimwear choices Fashion: Sandi Lindley makeover Back to school: Marcia May, North’s, Colemans, Bubble & Squeak

HOME, GARDEN & MOTORING

21 23

Property: Richardson’s lettings Motoring: Buying a car at auction

FOOD & DRINK

24 in robin hood’s footsteps

29 30 34 37

Sean Hope: Potted Cromer Crab Cooker feature Summer celebration food Food news: Jackson Stops and the William Cecil opens

ACTIVITIES, LEARNING & BUSINESS

14 18 21 24

27 39 44 the good life: foxtail lilly Editor Nicholas Rudd-Jones 01780 765571 nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk Write to Stamford Living, PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY www.bestlocallivingliving.co.uk Advertisement Manager Claudia Bayley 01780 480409 claudia.bayley@btinternet.com Advertisement Director Helen Walton 01780 754801 helen.stamford@btopenworld.com Advertising Copy Rachel Beecroft 01780 765320 rachel@locallivingdesign.co.uk Head of Design Steven Handley steve@locallivingdesign.co.uk Senior Designer Nik Ellis nik@locallivingdesign.co.uk Publisher Nicholas Rudd-Jones 01780 765571 nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk Published by Local Living Ltd, PO Box 208, Stamford, Lincs. PE9 9FY nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk Printed by Warner’s of Bourne

Travel: City breaks in the autumn Pets: which one is right for you?

Jobs: KWR Recruitment Local walk: Following in the footsteps of Robin Hood in Fermyn Woods Countryfile: The flora and fauna of quarries What’s On

PERSPECTIVES

43 44

Ask Leo Special: Sign Painting The Good Life: Foxtail Lilly at Oundle

29 SEAN HOPE’S CRAB RECIPE

For only £20 (£30 for overseas surface mail) you can subscribe to Stamford Living for a year (12 issues).

Please send your name, address and a cheque made out to Local Living Ltd to: SL Subscriptions, PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY Or you can subscribe via the website at www.bestlocalliving.co.uk

STAMFORD LIVING August 2011

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LOCAL NEWS

Upfront What’s new this month

Monty’s Guitars workshop opens in Oundle Luthier (maker of stringed instruments) Matthew Gleeson has recently opened for business repairing and building guitars in Oundle, following a move to the area from London. With outstandingly impressive credentials, he has done work for innumerable professional musicians including , David Gilmour, Pete Townsend, Chris Rea, Elvis Costello, Pat Metheny, Gary Moore, Angus Young, Scott Gorham, Stereophonics, Blur, Jon Bon Jovi, ZZTop, Ash, Eric Clapton, Bush, Mike Oldfield, Hank Marvin, Bryan Adams, Terry Britten, Jeff Beck, Steven Street, Paul McCartney, and many more.

Monty’s Guitars, main workshop will be in Oundle, from where Matthew will deal with all types of repairs and modifications to guitars and basses. “I have experience dealing with every kind of guitar repair, from a simple set-up, to complete custom built guitar with more onboard effects than you could shake a stick at. Most things are repairable. I have dealt with guitars that have been in warehouse floods, literally beaten on stage and also guitars that have unfortunately been involved in some nasty break-ups. All of which have come out the other side as good as new,” he says. Matthew also plans to start manufacturing his own guitar parts and full custom guitars soon.

A Luthier / guitar repairer for ten years in London, where he served his apprenticeship with the renowned Charlie Chandler in Kew, Matthew is keen to emphasise that he is as committed to work on guitars for amateurs or professionals. A musician himself, he attended The Guitar School in West London (with a reputation for a modern style of music ranging from jazz to pop rock, where he also spent time looking into the technology of music) after a stint at the Performing Arts School in Tring, with its more classical focus.

Still very much a musician himself he is currently in two bands, Dirty Amps; a band dedicated to original music and, a covers band playing the music of the likes of Wham and Abba called Fake Tan. His diversion into the mechanics of guitar repairs arose from his own experience of instruments continually breaking and requiring repairs during his time at Music College. Seizing the initiative Matthew talked himself into an apprenticeship with Chandler at his shop, and the rest as they say is history.

• Contact: Tel: 07921 916053 http://www.montysguitars.com/

Wansford Dog Show Sat 27th August, Haycock Hotel, Wansford Gates open at 11am, registration at 12 noon, lots of events going on including: tombola, bric a brac, have a go agility, dog show (starts 1pm), doggy corner, and a chance to meet some dogs looking for homes. All the funds go to www.homes4dogs.co.uk.

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Geocaching

Nicholas Green invites you to join the great hunt called Geocaching The real world outdoor treasure hunting game called Geocaching is right under your nose with over 50 different hunts within a five mile radius of Stamford and over a million worldwide, With Stamford having so many historical features and beautiful walks, it’s the perfect location to begin to participate in multi-cache hunts and enjoy a picnic on the way.

Discover the great outdoors with pre-planned walks whilst using a GPS system to reach specific coordinates, locate clues or caches, sign the logbook and see what others have left behind.

You can start very inexpensively by renting one of Precision Outdoors’ GPS systems for only £9.99. They have also set up their very own Geocaching trail where there is the chance to win a Geocaching GPS worth £199.99. The staff are fully trained to be able to demonstrate to you how to use the system, so pop into store and you’re basically ready to go on your first adventure!

• Precision Outdoors, 27-29 St George’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2BJ Tel: 01780 762165 To find out more about Geocaching visit http://www.geocaching.com/

Summer Holiday Football Courses Football Development Schools (FDS) in partnership with West Bromwich Albion, are offering fun and action packed summer holiday soccer courses for 4 -12 year boys and girls in the local area. The brand new courses will include World Cup, ‘be a star’ and ’goals goals goals’ fun days.

All courses run from 9am to 4pm and cost £20 per day. A 10% sibling discount is also available for two or more family members attending the same course.

Course dates / times Stamford - Empingham Road Playing Fields - August 1 / 2 / 3 and August 22 / 23 / 24 Leighfield Primary School, Uppingham – August 8 / 9 / 10 Oakham School –August 15 / 16 / 17 • To book on to any of the courses or for further information please contact FDS on 0845 4753815 or visit http://www.developmentschools.co.uk/

NENE VALLEY STAMFORD LIVING LIVING August July 2011 2008

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• SL August ADS.indd 5

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LOCAL NEWS

Upfront

Mark Elliott moves to bigger premises Mark Elliott Furniture, under dynamic new ownership, has now relocated to premises at the east end of Bath Row at the bottom of St Mary’s Passage opposite Adnams.

It is many times larger than the old premises, allowing so much more furniture to be displayed in its full glory. Downstairs are sofas, chairs and tables whilst upstairs there is a wide selection of beds and bedroom furniture.

It is a pleasure to look round, be inspired, chat with the knowledgeable and friendly staff and enjoy the spectacular views across the meadows to the river. And all the furniture you see is 100% British and can be finished exactly to your specifications (size and material).

• Mark Elliot Furniture, Bath Row, Stamford, PE9 2HG Tel: 01780 766284 http://www.markelliot.co.uk/

New Venue at the Riverside

Little Bytham village store passes on to new owners For 65 years this village shop was owned and run by Mrs Bee. When at 94 she decided to sell, it was to Meg Overend, a local lass who left to study in Newcastle and work as a professional in York before coming home to look for the perfect business opportunity. “She had to like you,” says Meg of Mrs Bee, “She wanted to pass the shop onto someone who was going to love it like she did.”

Meg and her partner Tom, who is an architectural technician, have transformed this antiquated shop into a quality destination venue.

“We wanted to create a traditional Meg Overend look and atmosphere where people looked forward to coming in and enjoying the shop experience,” explains Meg. “I wanted to strike a balance between sourcing and providing local produce for our customers with a mix of store cupboard essentials.”

Grasmere Lincolnshire sausages, Lubcloud Organic Milk, Cropwell Bishop Stilton, Lincolnshire Poacher cheese and Sparkenhoe Red Leicestershire.

“Saints and Sinners Horseradish Mustard is very popular,” says Meg, “but it is the brownies baked by Kate’s Little Cakes of Castle Bytham that are quickly becoming an established favourite on the sweet shelf.” Bread arrives daily from a bakery in Grantham but if you want to make your own you can buy Little Bytham’s own strong white and wholemeal flour. Flour is ground from Amaretto wheat, a traditional variety grown by John and Guy Turner at their organic farm in Little Bytham and then milled at Tuxford.

The No 10 Store oozes quality and community. “The local support has been very rewarding,” says Meg, “but we love the passing visitors too who stop in to take a taste of Lincolnshire away with them.”

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Passers-by crossing the river to and from St Mary’s Street will have noticed a gradual transformation of what was formerly Quayhole Kate’s nightclub.

A local property investor recently purchased this historic riverside building and has sympathetically restored the interior.

A spokesman for the company said “Our vision is that with its beautiful location and waterfront setting this could be a landmark site for Stamford, to be enjoyed not only by local residents but by all visitors.”

Already established in the rear warehouse of the building is the London & Stamford Valuation and Buying Centre, one of the company’s associated international valuation centres. Here you can pick up interesting and exquisite antiques, decorative arts and gifts. The centre values and purchases jewellery, watches, silver and antiques, so a hunt round your attic might be in order.

The spokesman revealed that there are further exciting plans afoot for the building. “Within the coming months it will open its doors to an ice cream parlour and tea room downstairs, while upstairs will be a restaurant and bar, incorporating a piano bar club. Here, visitors can enjoy pre- or after dinner drinks with wonderful riverside views of the bridge and The George.”

• The venue will open seven days a week. For more information call 01780 765611 or email sales@riverantiques.co.uk

Stamford looks North North Shoes, the Bourne-based company, which has been trading since 1876, has just opened a Stamford store, in the former Soloro premises at 2 Red Lion Square.

The opening marks the realisation of an ambition for company boss James North – the fifth generation to run the firm.

He said: “When I took over it was my aim to have shops in Peterborough and Stamford. We launched in Peterborough in 2009 and now we’ve opened in Stamford.

“I’m very excited about it. Stamford is a busy shopping town and our shop is in a prime position. As fitting specialists I feel we have something extra to bring to Stamford.”

Lee Marshall Rose, who has worked at North Shoes’ Bourne store for five years, is manageress of the new venture. She is joined by Dianne Walker, from the company’s Peterborough store Footprints, who has been fitting children’s shoes for 24 years.

The store will cater for ladies, children and men in a whole range of width fittings – and feature a host of well-known brands.

• To find out more about North Shoes visit http://www.northshoes.co.uk/

STAMFORD LIVING August 2011

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Domestic & Commercial Cleaning covering Stamford, Rutland & the surrounding area Our professional team deliver bespoke services at competitive prices and we guarantee our work to your satisfaction Our services include: All Domestic, Office & Commercial, Letting Agent, Landlord & Tenant, After Builder and much more...

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We don’t cut corners, we clean them!

The latest series of Quentin Blake limited edition signed prints all now available at gallery stamford.

This is a collector’s addition of only 8 limited edition prints with only 195 copies of each image.

The Taste of the Orient

Experience the delicate flavours of South East Asia Special Lunch Menu only £6.95

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Lunch 12-2:30pm Mon-Sat, 12-3:30pm Sun (Buffet) Dinner 5:30-11pm Fri & Sat, 5:30-10:30pm Sun-Thurs Upper Deck, Charters, Town Bridge, Peterborough, PE1 1FP

gallery stamford also offer a full Bespoke Framing Service

by Guild Commended Framers gallery stamford - Fine Art & Framing 3 Maiden Lane, Stamford Tel: 01780 753737 - Mon-Sat 9am to 5pm gallerystamford@gmail.com 7

• SL August ADS.indd 7

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

“

Desert Island Beauty

Genevieve Potter asks some local health and beauty experts to reveal the product or treatment that they would pack for a desert island stay, should they be so lucky!

Giselle Brannan, Chameleon “My desert island product is Caudalie Vinoperfect Serum (£44). This silky serum helps boost the skin in a number of ways. It helps fade ageing spots and prevent their reappearance, whilst giving a luminous radiance to the skin. My skin seems to feel plumper and if I use it under sun protection it even helps me to get a more even tan! Used morning and night a bottle lasts three months, so I could have a nice long desert island break!”

Chameleon, 5 St Mary’s Hill, Stamford, PE9 2DP Tel: 01780 755405 http://www.chameleonboutique.co.uk/

Jayne Chandler, Gerards Hair and Beauty “I would definitely take Aveda Control Force spray to my desert island (£16.50). It’s the perfect hair product; it works as a hair spray and gives amazing hold, but also provides 24 hour humidity defence and it contains rice bran which acts as a UV shield and antioxidant for the hair. What’s more it has zero climate impact and a lovely, calming aroma.

(Jayne and the team have kindly invited Stamford Living readers to call in to Gerards for a free hair style touch-up with Control Force) Gerards, The George Hotel Mews, Stamford, PE9 2LB Tel: 01780 753002 http://web.me.com./gerards/

Sue Arnold, Instep Foot Clinic “My must-have item is my range of Jane Iredale mineral make-up. The full coverage conceals blemishes without that heavy powdery look. Even better for the summer, it contains SPF20 so I am protected from the sun’s UVA and UVB rays too.

Perfect!”

Instep, 10 St Martin’s, Stamford, PE9 2LF Tel: 01780 766991 http://www.instepfootclinic.co.uk/

Samantha Hiseman, Equilibrium

“I would choose Indocéane - an exotic ritual (very apt for a desert island!), Stamford commencing with an Egyptian style Living milk foot bath, followed by the readers can Mediterranean-influenced body enjoy this amazing treatment at Equilibrium exfoliation. Then comes an Ayurvedic with a friend or loved inspired massage using warmed one during August for oils, and the sublime body wrap £100 for two people, completes the treatment. After 90 (normally £75 minutes of hands-on therapy I feel each). reborn!”

Equilibrium, 7 St Paul’s Street, Stamford Tel: 01780 757579 http://www.equilibriumstamford.co.uk/ http://www.facebook.com/equilibriumstamford

Lisa Armitage, skin care expert “The product I couldn’t live without is my Orchid Extract Radiance Moisturiser. Radiance boosting orchid extract and fruit enzymes found in bilberries and sugar maple help stimulate the skin’s ability to regenerate, promoting a brighter, more youthful appearance. Naturally active marine collagen encourages hydration and skin plumpness, whilst powerful anti-oxidants such as white tea and red raspberry help fight current and future signs of ageing.” lisa.armitage@tiscali.co.uk Tel: 01780 740749 http://www.lisaarmitage.com/

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STAMFORD LIVING August 2011

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Sophie Driver, Nutritionist “I would take Green People’s ‘Face the Sun’ facial skin cream. This daily lotion provides sun protection SPF15, a special natural tanning accelerator and antioxidants to protect against sun damage. It is also rich in Omega 3 & 6 essential fatty acids - the perfect gourmet skin food and is certified Organic.

I don’t like having to moisturise and then add greasy sun cream, so this product has me covered.”

Sophie Driver, The Broad Street Practice, 20-22 Broad Street, Stamford PE9 1PG Tel: 01780 480889 http://www.thebroadstreetpractice.co.uk/ Green People’s Products are available from Silver Lane Health Foods, Stamford PE9 2BT Tel: 01780 755710 http://www.silverlanefoods.co.uk/

Karen Benson, Maples “For me, it would have to be one of the new Clarins Hydra Quench tinted moisturisers (£27.00). They are 100% mineral filtered (so there’s nothing that will clog the skin), contain an SPF and provide just enough natural coverage to leave the skin looking totally radiant.”

Maples, 24 St Mary’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DJ Tel: 01780 752725

“

Genevieve Potter – Fashion, Health and Beauty Writer

“My desert island treatment would be a pedicure (although I’d have to take a friend!). For me there’s nothing that says “well groomed” more than some perfectly painted toes, summer or winter. Sophie at Emma Cannings (details below) gets my vote for the best file and polish (or even better, a full pedicure if I’ve got a bit more time).”

Emma Cannings

“My dream product for a desert island is the Decléor Tan Activator Serum (£43 for 100ml). The hard part is choosing the version for face or for body, so I would have to take both! The serum has a gorgeous silky texture and it works in three ways:1) Repairs the skin for the sun (by boosting natural defences ) 2) Promotes an even and long lasting tan 3) Prevents skin ageing Emma Cannings, Stamford Garden Centre, Great Casterton PE9 4BB Tel: 01780 766583 http://emmacannings.com/

Laura Try, Body Care

My desert island treatment is HD brows which Body Care now specialise in.

Well defined eyebrows literally frame the face and open up the eyes; the transformation can be unbelievable. Some of my clients get asked if they’ve had botox just from having HD brows, because it gives their features such a lift. It’s a precise, step by step process to achieve perfect eyebrows. I’m a huge fan.”

Body Care, 7 Ironmonger Street, Stamford PE9 1PL Tel: 01780 480777 http://www.bodycare-online.com/

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STAMFORD LIVING August 2011

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FASHION

Go two-pieces This year more then ever there are swimwear innovations, which will make pool-side glamour a dream come true for everyone. Clever shapes and intelligent fabrics will flatter curvier ladies and give the illusion of curves for those of us who are less well endowed! Sally Stillingfleet talks to Giselle, owner of Chameleon for her take on Summer 2011 What’s new for 2011?

This year Giselle has invested in Aussie luxury brand Seafolly for the first time, the prints are as gorgeous as the exceptional fabrics they use and well priced cotton soft-topped trousers and sarongs complement the swimwear ranges.

Moontide is not new but they continue to do well with their dualcupped bra tops and reversible and dual ‘Switch’ print ranges. The tiesided bikini bottoms make coverage good, with the ability to adjust.

Empreinte with their high lycra content and soft ‘control’ fabrics perfect for holding in the bits you want to hold in!

Clever internal structures ensure that larger busts are supported and of course the sizing is designed like bras, again ensuring a perfect fit for D, DD, C and B cups.

Colours for this year Prints seem far more popular than last year with Moontide’s dual print costumes. Bolds prints and lots of blues – even navy for those who want sophistication and 50s glam.

One or two-piece?

Fabric expertise in a onepiece swimsuit is where you will notice the innovations carried through to cleverly cut sexier one-piece styling. Greater elasticity and structures which hold have been made possible with higher lycra content made into softer finer fabrics with a silky feel – don’t think old fashioned girdle fabric!

A bikini can be worn at any age as long as you are confident wearing the new styles and more dramatic prints. A trip to Chameleon will ensure you choose the right bra style to suit your bust. Halter necks up until recently were not great if you had a large bust because they put too much strain on the neck. Now, with internal structures this year’s styles are comfortable and pretty.

Flattering bottoms?

Styles are well designed with either tie-sides or cut away and higher on the leg. Of course you can further emphasise leg length with flip-flop wedges and pretty beaded flip-flops.

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Large bust Fantasie and Freya both go up to at least an E cup in-store and some larger sizes can be ordered. Of course the wires in their bras offer all the support needed. Of course advice and abundant knowledge is key here, so always seek help and inside knowledge from Giselle and her team.

Small bust Ory or O Beach both have younger ranges and they cater for smaller busts with padded moulded cups, a bandeau style is also an alternative and can be worn with or without detachable straps.

Giselle at Chameleon - Chameleon – 10 St Mary’s Hill, Stamford. Tel: 01780 755405 http://www.chameleonboutique.com/ Credits: Seafolly Seychelles in White a bikini from £55 for tops and £35 for bottoms, Tankinis from £65 and beach loose cotton trousers £49.

Empreinte one-piece swimsuit from £110

STAMFORD LIVING August 2011

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NEW NEW NEW NEW NEW

Dermaroller Facial

August Offer 10% off all Products and Face & Body Treatments

Mama Mio Shrink to fit Cellulite Cream BAZAR

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The ultimate in Collagen Induction Therapy, with light therapy for skin rejuvenation & specialist mask

10% off with this advert during August Why pay more when you don’t have to?....

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OF THE

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Organic skincare, perfumes, aftershaves, luxury beauty goods and gifts and now in its fabulous new beauty salon right opposite the George Hotel, you can also enjoy all the best natural beauty treatments from Ren, Neom, & Dr Hauscha.

Facials | Massages | Manicures & Pedicures | Waxing Aromatica, 8 High St, St Martin’s, Stamford, PE9 2LF

Tel: 01780 753443 Open 9-5 Mon-Sat, late to 8pm on Thu Still stockists of

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• SL August ADS.indd 11

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Pay for 5 treatments and get one FREE for first • Full range of Ladies and Gentlemen's Environ Facials and Massages appointments booked during August & September • Exclusive Bridal Party Beauty and Make up Packages • OPI Manicures & Pedicures • Waxing • Eyebrow/Lash Tinting

• Professional Tooth Whitening Harriet’s Beauty Room, 11aBleaching High Street, St Martins, Stamford (opposite The George Hotel) 11a High Street, St Martins. Stamford, PE9 2LF (Opposite The George Hotel)

01780 481155 Tel:Tel: 01780 481155

Open: Tues – Thurs 9am – 7pm, Fri 9am – 6pm & Sat 9am – 4pm

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25% off Human Hair Extensions During August

Barnsdale Hall Hotel

Open Tuesday to Saturday. 2 late nights

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BUSINESS

Sandi Lindley Style Sandi Lindley Style is rapidly becoming a household name in Stamford, especially among woman who are not only style conscious but determined to save money by not making expensive wardrobe blunders

W

ith five years of international styling and shopping experience behind her, Sandi is passionate about helping women find their own personal style. “So many women dress a certain way for years,” she says, “never giving themselves the time or luxury to try out new styles or colours that not only would change their whole image and the way they feel about themselves, but also give them a massive confidence boost.”

“There are many tricks of the trade,” she believes. “My aim is to show ladies how to hide imperfections and flaunt assets that many of them don’t even realise they have!”

It’s all quite simple. Once she has completely revamped your wardrobe — during which time she will demonstrate what best suits you, how to combine existing garments, create different looks and so forth — she will recommend a personal shopping experience.

No more tedious traipsing the streets searching for the correct styles, or waiting in fitting rooms frustrated, shivering and half naked because you didn’t bring in the correct size, and no more indecisive impulse buys!

It’s all done for you! And at the end of the experience, no matter the size of your budget, you will go home a new woman -- pampered, spoiled and equipped with the confidence that we all should feel. According to Sandi, “Finding your personal style is like developing a signature. No two will ever be the same.” * Sandi can be reached on 07858 255622 for queries or bookings. Why not take advantage of her summer specials: A Complete Wardrobe Revamp £45; A Shopping Experience £50/Hour sandilindleystyle@mail.com lookinggoodfeelingfabulous.bogspot.com Tel: 07858 255622

City Breaks…

If you are not taking a full summer break this year, why not consider a city break in September, it’s a perfect time to travel, schools are back and hotels often have a selection of offers including free nights and complimentary room upgrades!

If you are tempted (and really don’t want to go to Paris again!), then here are three of Oundle Travel’s favourite cities and their Top Tips : Florence Birthplace of the Renaissance and home to Michelangelo’s ‘David’, Florence has inherited a rich cultural heritage. The world famous Ponte Vecchio Bridge is the oldest in Florence. Visit Italy’s most important collection of art, the Medici collection housed in the Uffizi Gallery.

Top Tip: The best views of the city are from The Piazzale Michelangelo; early evening is a good time to visit

Recommended Hotel: The Brunelleschi, always a favourite - £268.00 pp – 2 nights B&B – Fabulous Restaurant.

Marrakech The Red City at the foot of the Atlas Mountains has captivated generations of Europeans.

Vibrant, exciting, colourful, Marrakech is a fascinating break with mild temperate climate in the winter months.

Top Tip: Watch where you’re pointing that camera! If the snake charmers or street entertainers think you’re trying to photograph them, a demand for money will promptly follow!

Recommended Hotel: Angsana Riad Lydines – A beautiful individual Riad with magnificent Medina views from the rooftop terrace £419.00 – 2 nights – B&B New York As the city’s nickname would suggest, The Big Apple tempts you to take a bite of its vibrant

and cosmopolitan atmosphere. The Empire State Building, Central Park, Broadway and of course shopping on 5th Avenue just to name a few attractions….

Top Tip: Make your way to the New York Pier just overlooking the Brooklyn Bridge, order a Philly steak sandwich from a local vendor and just sit back and watch the New Yorkers promenade along the pier, great people watching!

Recommended Hotel: London NYC Hotel – Upbeat, Trendy positioned in the heart of vibrant Manhattan. From £892.00 pp – 3 nights – Room Only

• These are just a small selection of city breaks that are available through Oundle Travel – So if you need some inspiration and personal recommendations, call in or contact them on 01832 273600 www.oundletravel.co.uk.

Manhattan

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Commercial and domestic glazing, soffit and facia specialists.

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Showroom Open Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm Saturdays 10am – 4pm

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Finishing Touch Finishing Touch 8 All Saints St, Stamford PE 8 All Saints St, Stamford PE9 2PE 01780 763005 01780 763005

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Teenage Spa Experience to do with Not sure what mmer?

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Limited places available so please book early to avoid disappointment. Payment must be made in advance at the time of booking. Make-up lessons are available subject to availability and will be an additional £20 charge. To be eligible for the Teenage Spa Experience customers must be 13yrs - 19yrs of age at the time of their treatment. Any parents wishing to book this package must be joined by a teenager and both parties must redeem their package at the same time. Gift vouchers can not be used against this promotion and this promotion can not be used in conjunction with any other that might be running. Foundation cards are not acceptable for this promotion.

7 St Pauls St, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 2BE Tel: 01780 757579 www.equilibriumstamford.co.uk www.facebook.com/equilibriumstamford

Marcia May Shoes Ltd 41 St Mary’s Street Stamford Tel: 01780 766608

STUDENT 20%

DOUBLE DISCOUNT Baby and Children’s Wear Including: Organics for Kids • Daisy Roots Green Baby • Kite Kids Minymo • Moccis • Babble Bibs

Back to School ary Now Stocking Prim ol & Secondary Scho s rm ifo Un

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Toys and Gifts

We have a fabulous line-up of products for Students of all ages. From must-have essentials to designer collections.

The great news is that between 11th July & 10th September we are offering all full-time Students 20% “Double Discount”!* 20% Double Discount Example:-

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Stabilo’s Easy Original Pen, available in right & left-hand versions, is designed to promote correct hand posture when writing. The rollerball refill doesn’t smudge or scratch and comes with Royal Blue erasable ink which is ideal for school use.

STAMFORD

OAKHAM

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ACTIVITIES

Back to School Surely it’s not that time of year already? Well it very nearly is!

Stamford Living finds some great local suppliers who will help you to ensure that your little ones start off well prepared Putting your best foot forward…

According to a recent study, four million British children are wearing the wrong-size shoes.

Podiatrists say that 70% of adults suffer from foot health problems brought on by the wrong footwear in childhood – problems like blisters, pressure sores, in-growing toe-nails, hammer toe and knee and posture problems.

North Shoes Norths are fitting specialists for children, with all staff trained by the Society of Shoe Fitters (SSF) – the organisation set up to ensure that shoppers get the right shoes and the right advice.

And they stock most of the top brands for children – including Start-rite, Ricosta, Geox and Petasil.

The North Shoes range also covers width fittings C, D, E, F, G and H – so there’s a huge choice of children’s footwear and no need to settle for second best.

• North Shoes, 2 Red Lion Square, Stamford The store is open from 9am-5.30pm, Monday-Saturday. To find out more about the shoes and services on offer, give them a call on 01780 755400, or visit http://www. northshoes.co.uk/

Marcia May Marcia May Shoes has a delightful children’s department; stocking well known European brands such as Ricosta, Lelli Kelly, Hush Puppies and Garvalin. Situated towards the rear of the shop, it is bright and cheerful with a room for buggies. Owner Samantha Drewery has twenty years’ experience of fitting children’s shoes,

Marcia May

having worked with all the major high street brands.

Nowhere is foot health more firmly at the top of the agenda, than in the children’s department. The staff are all trained fitters, who focus on the unique shape of your child’s foot in order to match-make the perfect combination of aesthetics and support. What’s more, almost all of the shoes in stock have both leather uppers and lining, which allows the growing foot to breathe.

Children’s feet do grow at an astonishing rate and those aged three or under should have their feet checked every 4 to 6 weeks; whilst over fives every 10 to 12 weeks. Staff at Marcia May are more than happy for parents to pop in regularly with their children to have their feet measured and their current shoes checked for size, without obligation. Robyn, who many will remember from Piggy’s Days, is also joining the team.

• Marcia May Shoes, 41, St. Mary’s St, Stamford, PE9 2DS Tel: 01780 783091 (Back to school appointments are available and shop will be open at 9am and on Sundays 11am-4pm for the last two weeks of August)

Looking smart Since the Friday market no longer has a school uniform stall, Bubble & Squeak is delighted to announce that they are now stocking basic school uniform for 0-11s and some for secondary school children. They strongly believe in value for money - after all having worked as teachers they fully understand what children get up to at school! They stock Zeko and Ladybird among others, representing good quality and reasonably priced uniform (typically

Coleman’s £6 for long trousers, £7 pinafore), socks, tights and sports kit. Multipacks of shirts and blouses available.

• Bubble and Squeak also carry around 40 different brands offering a wide range of goods for babywear, childrenswear, gifts and toys collection.

Bubble and Squeak, 30 High Street, Stamford, PE9 2BB Tel: 01780 755799http://www. bubbleandsqueakstamford.co.uk/

Getting the right stationery…

By the time they begin secondary school, most students like to have their own collection of stationery. Essential are reliable pens, sturdy folders, several wallets for homework plus a couple of different sized notebooks. Coleman’s in Stamford and Oakham have a huge range in store plus more on the website and their service is legendary. You will love their new recycled, leather bound notebooks in fabulous ‘ice cream’ colours. Colemans also sells academic diaries for those embarking on further education and a discount is offered to all students.

Best Advice: “Book Tokens or vouchers to buy some nice stationery are a great ‘Good luck at your new school’ gift.”

• Coleman’s, 2 St Paul’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2BE Tel: 01780 762324 http://www.colemangroup.

Marcia May co.uk/ STAMFORD LIVING August 2011

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PETS

What pet is right for us?

Charlotte Newby goes in search of local advice and finds plenty of it USEFUL CONTACTS t may seem obvious to choose a pet that PET SHOPS: suits your lifestyle Jim’s Pets, 9North Street, Stamford, PE9 1EL, and home but I’m 01780 765390, http://www.jimspets.co.uk/ told, by Tony at Pets Stamford Animal & Pet Supplies (SAPS), Korner, that people Hallidays Yard, Radcliffe Road, Stamford PE9 still come into his 1ED, 01780 755758, http://www.sapsshop hoping to buy pets.co.uk/stamford.html A a large animal – Pets Korner, 15-17 Stamford recent survey like a Labrador or Walk, Stamford PE9 2JE, conducted by the Alsatian to take away, 01780 756082, http://www.

Pet Food Manufacturers’ seemingly with little petskorner.co.uk/ Association (PFMA) of over research or planning.

2,000 adults found that pet owners Last year, Wood VETERINARY CLINICS: rate themselves as being happier Green Animal Charity Burghley Veterinary than those without a pet. While 60% in Godmanchester, Centre, St Leonard’s of people say their pet makes them saw a 13% increase in Street, Stamford PE9 a happier person, a similar number animals needing help.

2HU, 01780 762109, http:// say being with their animal They re-homed 2,507 cats and 1,469 dogs. Many of these abandoned animals www.burghleyvets.co.uk/ makes them feel more are the result of a bad decision made by well-meaning people or families.

Clear Ridge Veterinary relaxed.

In making the decision to bring an animal into your home, it’s worth thinking Surgery, 43 Empingham Road, hard about matching the pet to your lifestyle and surroundings, considering the level Stamford, PE9 2RJ, 01780 764333 of commitment needed, the time and energy you have in relation to the amount the animal Oakham Veterinary Hospital (Wellneeds, and the budget necessary. established veterinary clinic, pet packages Dawn at Oakham Veterinary Hospital stresses the importance of understanding how much for preventative health care & free geriatric stimulation an animal may need and really thinking about how much you want back from your pet. clinics), Ashwell Road, Oakham LE15 7QH, I visited local pet shops and vets to get an idea of the types of pets that are finding their way into Equine 01572 722647, Small animals 01572 our homes, and to talk to the experts who deal with pet ownership and care every day.

722646, http://www.oakhamvethospital.co.uk/ Stamford Veterinary Centre (Full veterinary service), Old Great North Road, Great Dogs Casterton, Stamford, PE9 4BB NEW LOCATION It came as no surprise that dogs remain the most popular pet. And there are many new breeds http://www.stamfordvets.co.uk/ emerging to suit our current lifestyles and needs. Mixed breeds such as Labradoodles, for example – a cross between a Labrador and Poodle - is a combination that typically produces a medium sized SERVICES FOR DOGS: dog that’s easy to train and sheds little hair; better for allergy sufferers and smaller homes. And Dog walking, sitting and day care service: there’s the Cockerpoo – a Cocker Spaniel and Poodle hybrid. These have become popular because Walk This Way, 07947 169027 they generally combine the outgoing, affectionate personality of the cocker spaniel but shed less Dog holidays: hair.

Barking Mad, 1 Shearers Drive, Spalding, Lincs PE11 3ZJ, 01775 720382, http://www.

Reptiles and exotics barkingmad.uk.com/franchisees/kerry-wells/ I was intrigued to learn from James at SAPS that there’s now a growing interest in keeping reptiles Boarding house for small dogs: as pets. Take the Bearded Dragon, a spiny reptile originating in Australia, popular with teenagers as The Little Dog House, 35 Westwood a fascinating, unusual pet. But they come with a starting price upwards of £300 for the creature, its Drive, Bourne, Lincs, 01778 425947, http:// vivarium and all the kit. And they need a live lunch of jumping crickets. Or you can choose a Corn thelittledoghouse.vpweb.co.uk/ Snake, but then you have to buy the frozen mice and chicks…

If the exotic appeals to you, there’s the fascinating ‘degu’, (a rodent, not a new Korean car ANIMAL RESCUE AND ADOPT AN ANIMAL: brand). Also known as Chilean ground squirrels, they’re related to guinea pigs, are very active and RSPCA, Peterborough & District Branch, 01733 intelligent creatures, sociable and awake during the day.

222188, http://www.rspca-peterborough.org. uk/ Cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hens and tortoises Wood Green, The Animals Charity, King’s But let’s not forget the traditional pets: cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hens and tortoises. All highly Bush Farm, London Road, Godmanchester, suited to family life, inexpensive, and easy to care for and handle. Most of the smaller caged animals Cambridgeshire PE29 2NH, 0844 248 8181, can be bought at our local pet shops together with the kit, food and loads of helpful advice. http://www.woodgreen.org.uk/ When I visited Jim’s Pets, Jim was very keen to let me handle the animals and get a proper feel for them. For the larger animals, the pet shops and vets have good relationships with reputable breeders.

There’s been a resurgence in the interest in hens in recent years, so it’s worth knowing that Pets Korner, SAPS and Jim’s Pets all have a range of equipment and food for them. Jim’s Pets even supplies the chickens themselves.

The pet shop boys (and girls), and the local vets, are all passionate about their subject, and value animal welfare. Talking to them would be a good starting point when considering taking on a pet.

Finally, if you want to gain a companion and rehome an animal in need - young or old - visit the well-known Wood Green re-homing centre. Not for just cats and dogs but for goats, chickens and small animals too.

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SUMMER SALE EVENT

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E OR S T L S N TAI I E E SE R D FO

BEAUTIFUL HANDMADE FURNITURE AND SOFAS

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BUSINESS

Need career path guidance?

Sarah Lyon discovers a firm, Kilgour Wood Recruitment (KWR) that helps graduates and other candidates to reach their true potential How to get through an interview Sarah Jane and Karen love what they do.

Their company and partnership is born out of a real knowledge of recruitment and blue chip clients where Sarah Jane and Karen have become successful career coaches with a real focus on the graduate market.

Focusing on Graduate and School Leavers “There is a real call now to focus on this group of talented people as the job market and internships are so very competitive. Providing good direction, strategies to get internships, CV coaching and interview techniques are all vital elements to move forward following graduation, and even before! Parents are anxious for their children especially as they now have larger debts to pay off and there are fewer jobs to go for. Getting a good start is so important.”

Presentation is everything…

“When we coach a candidate it is on a one to one basis, as if they were in an actual interview. Whilst we are asking typical interview questions we are assessing their answers and making notes. At the end of the interview we will address the points that they need help with. Some candidates have a problem in answering typical questions as they are unable to sell/talk about themselves. We want each candidate to feel that they are in control and now have a real plan to help them move forward with CVs, job applications, and interviews. It is essential that we cover how they come across during their interview with respect to body language and dress etc. The process is challenging and the key is to build self-esteem to try and secure the right job.”

• Kilgour Wood Recruitment Ltd is based in Rutland, Tel: 0203 058 1374, http://www.kilgourwoodrecruitment.co.uk/ Karen@kwrecruitment.co.uk, SJ@kw-recruitment.co.uk

Richardson’s lettings Richardson’s has a strong lettings business, run by Mark Thomas and Sandra Brookbanks

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ichardson’s serve all parts of the lettings market, with a particular strength in character cottages, often with longer tenancies available. With their strong relationships in the rural market, they typically have a range of lettings on their books that are well worth a look because of their distinctive character.

They are committed to maintaining the highest standards in residential property letting and are members of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS).

Three interesting properties are currently available for let:

Pickworth Road, Pickworth - 2 Bedroom £625 per month - Ref: WALKF/11078/1 Located in a rural setting between Pickworth and Great Casterton. It is a semi-detached 2 bedroom cottage that has been completely refurbished. The property benefits from a brand new kitchen and bathroom, new carpets, oil fired central heating and double glazing throughout

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Empingham Road, Ketton - 1 Bedroom £695 per month - Ref: EMPIN/11058/1 Located close to the centre of Ketton in a conservation area. The property has been extended and completely refurbished to a high standard with a shaker style kitchen, luxury bathroom, under floor heating, some original sash windows, new double glazed windows and wooden internal panel doors.

Wharf Road, Stamford - 3 Bedroom £1,250 per month - Ref: THESH/10598/1 35 Wharf Road offers good size accommodation set over three floors and features three bedrooms one with en-suite, living room and kitchen/dining room on the first floor. Integral garage.

The property is built to a high specification with appliances in the kitchen area with granite worktops, white sanitary ware in bathroom areas, stainless steel down lighters to kitchen, bathroom, en-suite and cloakroom, gas central heating.

• Richardson Chartered Surveyors, Sheep Market House, Stamford, PE9 2RB Tel: 01780 762433 http:// www.richardson surveyors.co.uk/

STAMFORD LIVING August 2011

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MARSHALL VOLVO OUTSTANDING SERVICE AS STANDARD. Our highly trained and skilled team looks forward to welcoming you to our state of the art dealership, where we will be on hand to look after your every need.

All our cars are handled with the utmost care and attention as we pride ourselves on offering the best deals on the latest range of New Volvo and piece of mind on quality approved used vehicles.

From the new Volvo range, to Approved used vehicles right through to service and repairs, visit Marshall Volvo and expect nothing less than a first class service as standard.

SCAN WITH YOUR QR READER APP TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE

Volvo. For life.

MARSHALL VOLVO PETERBOROUGH 7 MALLORY ROAD, BOONGATE, PETERBOROUGH PE1 5AU. TEL: 0844 411 9751 www.marshallweb.co.uk/volvo MARSHALL MOTOR GROUP LTD. REGISTERED OFFICE:- AIRPORT HOUSE, THE AIRPORT, CAMBRIDGE CB5 8RY. ALL CALLS MAY BE RECORDED FOR TRAINING AND QUALITY PURPOSES.

THIS IS MARSHALL JAGUAR

Situated in Peterborough, our dealership is equipped to deal with all your Jaguar needs.

From the exciting new Jaguar range featuring groundbreaking technology and industry firsts, to Approved used vehicles maintained to the standards set by the engineers who built them.

Enjoy all the expertise and knowledge of our Jaguar Academy trained technicians and with a range of exhilarating accessories to enhance the feeling of owning a Jaguar, make sure that you visit Marshall Jaguar Peterborough.

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

SCAN WITH YOUR QR READER APP TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE

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MOTORING

Buying a car at auction Buying a car at auction can be both rewarding and intimidating in equal measure - but when consumer cash is tight financial savings compared to buying via a dealer are significant.

Ashley Martin examines the possibilities

H

istorically, private buyers have tended to steer clear of vehicle auctions for a variety of reasons. Not least because they are viewed as ‘a shady place where shady deals are done’, according to Craig Mailey, Marketing Director at Manheim Auctions, which has a centre at Northampton.

However, recent research by Manheim Auctions, which along with British Car Auctions (BCA), which has a centre in Peterborough, are Britain’s ‘big two’ vehicle auction companies, reveals that two thirds of motorists will buy at car auctions if they were confident of the full history of the vehicle and 40% if they were confident of ‘a great deal’.

To educate the public further, and counter common misconceptions that buying a car at auction is all Arthur Daly, Manheim Auctions has hosted a series of Auction Awareness Workshops, inviting motorists to learn about the buying process and dispel the auction myths.

Meanwhile, BCA’s website contains ‘tutorials’ for auction novices.

BCA spokesman Tim Naylor said: “Our experience suggests that about 10% of our business is non-trade. Of that proportion, some will be professional people buying a vehicle for their own business, others will be ad-hoc occasional traders, while the balance will be motorists buying for their own use or for a family member.”

Not surprisingly, in today’s economic climate price rather than style, size and colour is the number one priority for used car buyers. And, a crucial part of the price calculation, is MPG, insurance and Vehicle Excise Duty as discerning consumers take account of ongoing running costs in their buying decision.

Depending on budget, experts advise private buyers to look for one-owner, direct-entered cars. Many of Britain’s biggest fleets and vehicle leasing companies sell ex-company

cars through auctions.

Typically, three or four years old with 50,00080,000 miles on the clock, such cars will invariably be sold with a full service history, log book/V5 documentation and will have been maintained in accordance with manufacturer recommendations and represent good value for money.

It is generally reckoned that a dealer’s forecourt mark-up on such a car in ‘ready to retail’ could be as much as £3,000£4,000 on a prestige model such as a BMW and around £900-£1,200 on a car from a volume manufacturer - cash that can be saved by buying wholesale rather than retail.

On top of the ‘hammer price’, auction centres will charge a buyer’s fee, which is typically linked on a sliding scale to the price paid. It will add around 5-6% to the price of the average car purchased at BCA. The fee along with a legally binding entry form provides buyers with in-built peace of mind safeguards relating to: the car not being stolen, no outstanding finance on it, not previously an insurance write-off, age, condition and mileage.

He added: “There is no question that there are some great deals to be had at the moment.

For around £7,000 in recent weeks, BCA has sold, among others, such iconic and desirable premium models as Audi TT, BMW X5, Jaguar S Type and Mercedes C220 as well as low mileage good condition examples of Fiat 500, Volkswagen Beetle, Mini and Alfa Romeo Mito.”

An alternative to traditional vehicle auctions, there are online auction sites that have sprung

up, from the generic Ebay to the specialist such as the Corby-based CD Auction Group.

The CD Auction Group has moved away from its roots in the traditional auction sector to the online scene and unlike Ebay, which is typically private buyer selling to private buyer, is, in the main, disposing of de-fleeted company cars.

Managing director Roger Woodward said: “The majority of our vehicles are sold online direct from motor manufacturers, fleets and leasing companies so come with a full service history and documentation so there is a comfort factor for buyers.

“Would-be buyers can search the website and view photos of cars, detailed descriptions and bid online.

“Private buyers are becoming more comfortable with buying large ticket items online as long as there are photos and descriptions of the vehicles and they have a full service history. In the future more and more consumers will buy vehicles online.”

Successful buying!

Further information is available at: http://www.british-car-auctions.co.uk http://www.manheimremarketing.co.uk http://www.cdauctiongroup.com

Some top tips for buying a car at auction 1.

Do your homework - know what you want before you go to an auction and have an idea what the car you are after is worth. Auctions catalogues can be viewed online.

2. Terms and conditions - each auction house has its own terms and conditions explaining how to buy, what the fees are etc. Make sure you are familiar with them.

3. Don’t rush - arrive early and take time to examine the vehicle that interests you and study available information relating to vehicle specification and history prior to it entering the auction hall. Listen to the engine running as it is driven in.

4. Do ask questions - ask auction staff, they will be happy to help.

5. Check the car has all related documents - V5, service history and an MoT to confirm the registered keeper, their address and the vehicle information.

6. One careful owner - look for one-owner, direct-entered cars from fleets and leasing companies for good value and well-serviced vehicles 7. Sold as seen - Remember to check the exterior and interior condition of the car and under the bonnet, as these elements are sold as seen. Source: BCA. For tips on buying a car at auction, visit the BCA website at http://www.british-car-auctions.co.uk/ STAMFORD LIVING August 2011

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ACTIVITIES

On the trail of Robin Hood Did you know that Britain’s most famous outlaw once roamed our local woods? Dave Phillips tells the story and gives you the directions to follow in his footsteps…

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obin Hood was – and still is – the quintessential English hero. For 700 years we have loved the timeless tales of the one man who could deliver us from our wicked and greedy ruling classes. After all, Robin Hood robbed the greedy rich to feed the oppressed poor; an outlaw from a cruel regime who, along with his band of merry man, roamed the forests that covered much of the East Midlands in the Middle Ages.

But did you know that this legendary man of the wildwood was a frequent visitor to this neck of the woods, too? For although the history books will tell you that Robin Hood lived in Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire, there’s compelling evidence that he was a frequent visitor to this area, particularly Rockingham Forest.

Robin Hood was supposed to have lived somewhere between the 12th and 14th centuries, when Bocase Rockingham Forest was a royal Stone hunting ground that covered 200 square miles, extending from Stamford in the east to Northampton in the west. Only 30 miles or so from Sherwood, it would have been an obvious retreat for the most wanted man in the kingdom.

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The Brigstock connection Back then, two of the most important places in the forest were Rockingham Castle and the village of Brigstock. And it was in Brigstock’s famous Saxon church that Robin Brigstock’s Hood and his men attended Mass Saxon on Lady Day (March 25), the Feast church of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin.

Local legend has it that Robin and his men were betrayed by a treacherous priest and, as they left the church, they were ambushed by a posse of armed men led by Sir Ralph de Hanville, an officer of the crown. Arrows flew in all directions and, among the casualties, were Sir Ralph and the traitor priest, both fatally injured.

With blood on their hands, the outlaws rode off in haste and, a mile or so outside the village, Robin and his men got rid of the evidence by throwing their bows and arrows into an old, hollow oak tree before disappearing into the forest and posing as peasants.

The tree soon became known as the Bowcase Tree (later shortened to Bocase Tree) and became a meeting place for important forest courts. Eventually the old tree died and a stone

was erected to mark the position. Today, the Bocase Stone still stands in the spot, with the inscription “In this plaes grew Bocase Tree”… and a new oak sapling has been planted nearby to perpetuate the legend.

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Imprisoned at Rockingham After the Brigstock incident, Robin Hood and company then apparently went on a hunting spree in the forest, poaching the king’s deer. For a while they got away with it, but eventually the notorious outlaw was caught red-handed and thrown into the dungeon at Rockingham Castle to await trial. Records at the castle do indeed reveal that a “Robyn Hode” was imprisoned there in 1354 for “trespass of vert and venison in the forest”, but unfortunately there is no record of his eventual trial and punishment.

What other evidence of Robin Hood is there in the area? Well, there is the little matter of his early home. He is said to have lived in Barnsdale before he became an outlaw and most historians have assumed that was Barnsdale in South Yorkshire. But Barnsdale on the northern shore of Rutland Water has a decent claim, especially considering that nearby place names include Robin Hood’s Cave on the road to Oakham and Robin Hood’s Field, at Whitwell. Also, to the north at Castle Bytham, is Robin Hood’s Cross.

Meanwhile, at Gunwade Ferry near Castor, on the outskirts of Peterborough, there are two standing stones, known locally as Robin Hood and Little John.

The true origins of the Robin Hood legend have, of course, been lost in the mists of time.

The original tales and ballads of his exploits were passed down in the oral tradition and it was much later before they were written down and, no doubt, considerably embellished.

But I’d still like to think that Robin Hood and his outlaws roamed our local woods, stealing from the rich to give to the poor. And I do wish he was around today, in 2011, to sort out those greedy, self-serving bankers and politicians…

Following in Robin’s footsteps You can get on the trail of Robin Hood by enjoying this four-mile walk which takes in Brigstock Church, the Bocase Stone and some lovely parts of Rockingham Forest. It is easy going and should take no more than two hours (Ordnance Survey references supplied) Start at Brigstock Church (SP946851) – note the 10th century round Saxon tower – then head north and through the old market place, bearing left then right (SP945856) down lane. After 300 yards, take care crossing the main A6116, then continue down lane for just over one mile, with Harry’s woodland to the left and the open Park Wood parkland of Fermyn Woods Hall to the right. After Bocase Farm on the right, you’ll find the Bocase Stone on the left (SP951877). After about 200 BOCASE yards (SP949881), turn left down STONE path through Harry’s Park Wood for about a quarter of a mile, then turn left (SP944881) and head south through the woods for about a mile.

When the main forest ride bears left (SP944867) continue straight on along a smaller path. After about 100 yards follow footpath across fields and carefully cross main road, continuing along path into village and turning left on main street to walk back to church.

BRIGSTOCK Brigstock CHURCH 

START & FINISH

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COUNTRYFILE

Wild life safaris in local quarries Dyer’s greenweed, a burnet moth, grasshoppers, a woodpecker and skylarks, all seen or heard on an afternoon walk at Collyweston, inspired Sue Lee and Jean Orpin to investigate the background to some local wildlife locations tone has been quarried in this area since Roman times, and by the Middle Ages Barnack had Barnack Hills & Holes

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become the largest inland quarry in Britain. Quarrying at Ketton began later but Ketton stone and Collyweston slate are equally famous, used extensively in local houses.

The spoil heaps and extraction holes left behind by worked-out quarries provide a landscape attractive to many plants but not suitable for crops. The shallow soil is first colonised by rough grassland so for a long time these areas were used for sheep-grazing and managed by annual burning. By World War II better machines allowed some disused workings to be reclaimed for agriculture but others were abandoned to invasive trees and shrubs.

We are fortunate, however, that several areas have been saved and are now managed as havens for wildlife. For most of the summer we are welcome to wander and enjoy free wildlife safaris, just down the road.

Originally the source of Barnack Rag, used to build Peterborough Cathedral, this reserve covers 50 acres divided into 4 ‘paddocks’.

Owned by Burghley Estate Trust, it has been leased as a reserve since 1976 and is managed

by Natural England. Here the slopes are particularly steep providing a variety of terrain – a mini-alpine landscape. Famed for pasque flowers in spring, it is home to 300 different species of wild plants (including 8 species of orchids) and 28 species of butterfly.

The Deeps at Collyweston

What you can see Old limestone quarries are, of course, a perfect habitat for lime-loving plants, many flowering throughout the summer. In the early summer there are several species of orchid but later you can expect to find yellow-wort, autumn gentian, viper’s bugloss and yellow rockrose. Unusual plants include dyer’s greenweed, carline thistle, woolly thistle and clustered bellflower. The brown spikes of knapweed broomrape stick up amongst the grass – this parasitic plant feeds on the roots of greater knapweed.

Where there are flowers, there are insects. Listen for bumble bees and grasshoppers.

Burnet moths unusually come out in the day and feed on knapweed. On a sunny day, from June throughout August, butterflies will be about in abundance. Meadow browns, gatekeepers, common blue are fairly common; you may also see green hairstreaks, small coppers, orange tips and marbled whites and in August you stand a good chance of seeing chalkhill blues, red admirals, tortoiseshells, peacocks and brimstones.

Where there are insects there are birds. The scrubland and trees around the quarries also provide homes for birds so are good sites for bird-watchers. Some, like the skylarks, can be seen but others, like yellow-hammers and green woodpeckers, are more likely to be heard.

Managed by Northants Wildlife Trust for the owners, Burghley Estates & Easton Parish Council, this is the smallest of the three reserves (less than 20 acres) but also full of wildlife interest. It was an open cast site where narrow seams of rock were mined to provide Collyweston slates, so the soil supports a richer turf than the other quarries, a delight for grasshoppers. There are about 200 species of wild flowers including the rare broom, dyer’s greenwood, which was used to make yellow dye.

Ketton Quarry Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust lease 68 acres of worked-out quarry from Castle Cement. A wide variety of plants and insects are present, as well as grassland plants; and there is a beech wood where the rare pinesap (or yellow bird’s nest) grows. This unusual plant has no chlorophyll and lives on leaf mould.

Lizards and snakes can occasionally be seen and this quarry is also noted for its geology trail.

SSSIs All three of these quarry sites are Sites of Special Scientific Interest. This means they have been recognised to be among the very best wildlife and geological sites in the county. All SSSIs are unique habitats supporting plants and animals that face difficulty surviving in the countryside under the pressures of modern life. In order to subsist they require careful management and protection which is provided by Natural England and conservation groups in co-operation with landowners.

STAMFORD STAMFORD LIVING LIVING August June2011 201127 43

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SEAN’S KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL

Sun, sea and Cromer crab Sean’s quickfire recipe

Potte d C ro m er cra b

Serves 6

• 300g fresh Cromer cra b meat (200g white, 100 g brown) • 4 tbsp creme fraiche • 2 tsp hot creamed hor seradish • 2 spring onions, finely chopped 1 • /2 tsp ground cayenn e pepper • 50g melted butter • 100g cooked sweetcorn Serve with lemon wedge s and sourdough toast 1. Mix all the ingredients together with half the but ter 2. Place mix into rameki ns 3 Pour on the remaining butter to seal, then add a few pink peppercorns on top 4. Chill for 24 hours before serving (or you can freeze it)

Few ingredients lend themselves to al fresco eating as beautifully as fresh crab

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hether I’m in Clipsham, Cromer or somewhere slightly more exotic, the summer holidays always bring to mind sunshine, sandy beaches, a drop of wine, relaxed meals with friends and family… and seafood. In the summer months, nothing beats fresh crab, ideally caught off the Norfolk coast. Crab is a real favourite of mine, the perfect ingredient for creating dishes made for al fresco, sunshine eating.

It is fantastic served hot or cold in salads – such as a really crunchy Waldorf – or when combined with zingy grapefruit, avocado, feta cheese or gem lettuce. And when added to fresh egg pasta or stirred into risottos, crab meat makes the quick family meal.

If you are off to the Norfolk coast this summer then dressed Cromer crab is a must.

Sean’s seasonal must-buys Renowned for its high yield of tender white for August meat, Cromer crab makes a really simple tasty snack – just add a good dollop of mayonnaise What Sean will be cooking with and a generous squeeze of lemon or lime.

at the Olive Branch

Pasta machine – approximately £30

Meat – lamb/duck Fish – crab/anchovies Fruit – gooseberries/raspberries Veg – beetroot/courgettes

Sean’s kitchen essentials

Here are some flavour combinations to try with crab at home. Try experimenting and you can start to build entire dishes around these core flavours.

• With mushroom • With avocado • Crab & potatoes (try it au gratin with cream and cheese) • With chilli • With lemon/lime • With grapefruit • With basil

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• With dill • With feta cheese • With apple • With tomato • With coriander • With mango • With tarragon • With celery • With watercress • With sweetcorn

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Pasta is great with crab. It’s fun and also easy to make – in fact, why not have a go at this simple recipe!

• 4 egg yolks and 1 whole egg • 2 tbsp olive oil • 2 tbsp water • 250g ‘00’ strong pasta flour Place all the ingredients into a food processer and mix to a dough. Mould into a ball, cling film and allow to rest for 10 minutes before rolling through the machine.

Tip Cut the dough into four pieces and then thin out a little with a rolling pin before feeding through the pasta machine. When cooking the fresh pasta, it will take a lot less time in the boiling seasoned water than the dry variety (only around 4-5 minutes).

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Home & Garden

C

kers

Aga or electric? Steam or microwave? Alysia Anderson finds out what’s hot in ovens today Not so long ago, the choice of oven in your kitchen usually boiled down to gas or electric. If you lived in a country house perhaps you had an Aga or a Rayburn. Certainly the microwave was the utmost in modernity. Today, steam ovens, induction hobs and teppan yakis adorn many a new kitchen.

QKS Stamford-based QKS has recently opened a dedicated oven showroom to display the vast array of appliances available to aspiring Delias. Gary Young, one of a team of five kitchen designers at QKS, took me on a tour. “We have more than 20 cookers on display. The combination steam oven is very popular as it has an electric element for browning. You can even bake cakes in it,” he said. QKS stocks a wide range of brands, from range cookers by Rangemaster, Britannia, Belling, Stoves and Falcon to several types of Neff, Miele and Bosch appliances.

“QKS is a Neff Master Partner, so we get the best deals from them,” said Gary.

Every month or so, free cooking demonstrations are held at QKS. In the absence of a visiting chef, Gary showed me how some of the appliances worked. I discovered that ceramic hobs – remember those glowing red halogen spirals? – have been superseded by induction hobs. Gary demonstrated how sensitive the induction hobs are by bringing a pan of water to and from a simmer. I was impressed by how quickly the bubbling liquid responded to adjustments in temperature.

Gary explained: “The hobs work via a magnetic field so you need a cast-iron based pan, such as a Le Creuset. The ring switches off when not in contact with the pan so it is both safe and energy-efficient. It only uses power when it needs to.” For those who absentmindedly leave the ring on, this sounds like a great safety innovation, especially if there are young children or pets in the kitchen.

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Fordham Kitchens So if your hob can switch itself off, how about an oven that cleans itself?

Mark Fordham of Fordham Kitchens in Ryhall says “Our bestsellers are the pyrolytic ovens. You simply put it to the self-clean setting and it heats up to 500 degrees which burns everything off. When it’s cool, you just open the door and brush out the ash. I treated myself to one at Christmas and it’s been terrific. After all, who wants to clean the oven?” Fordham principally sells Bosch appliances, including steam ovens and induction hobs. “We tend to stack the appliances in the kitchen: combination microwave on top, pyrolytic electric oven in the centre and a warming drawer below. It puts everything within easy reach. If a new kitchen doesn’t make life easier, what’s the point in having one?” asked Mark.

Mark Fordhan has recently won an extremely prestigious award. He won the regional heat of the KBB trade magazine Product and Customer Service excellence award, and finished as runner-up in the national competition. Understandably he was thrilled by this, proving that his showroom and service levels compare favourably with the very best in the country.

NGI Design Neil Partridge at NGI Design, which specialises in contemporary interiors, says his clients also prefer built-in pyrolytic ovens at eye level. “It’s safer and easier as you don’t have to bend over while handling hot or heavy pans.” NGI Design offers a range of different ovens, some featuring two or more ways of cooking in one appliance. Again, the combination steam oven is a favourite with clients. “They are amazing for things like roasting a chicken as first it steams then it grills, giving you a better result,” said Neil. Alongside upmarket brands such as Miele and Gaggenau, NGI has started selling

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an Italian make called Scholtès. Neil explained the appeal. “They’ve introduced a unique product to the market, a new appliance called the Multiplo. It’s a hob-top appliance that you can use to boil, deep-fry, steam, roast, make sauces and so on.” Neil also highlighted the Scholtès big capacity oven which has a clever internal heat divider to transform it into two smaller ovens.

Orchard Kitchens Maxine Couch of Orchard Kitchens says many of her customers like having two ovens. “The one and a half is very popular, where you have a full-size oven and a half oven which is used either as a second oven or a grill.”

Orchard still sells plenty of gas hobs, though Maxine agrees that induction hobs have usurped the ceramic versions. “We mainly sell Neff appliances, but can source other brands if required.”

Several kitchen suppliers, including NGI Design and QKS, offer sleek-looking induction woks and teppan yakis. The former features a smooth circular hollow in which the wok pan rests. The teppan yaki is a stainless steel hotplate that allows you to sear meat and vegetables in a healthy Japanese fashion.

Mark Goodacre Of course, not everyone wants a

contemporary style of oven. Mark Goodacre has been creating handcrafted kitchens for more than 25 years and still sells lots of traditional Agas. “If that’s not the fit then we also offer funkier, top-end brands like Neff which do steam ovens and combination ovens. But generally our clients go for range cookers such as Agas.” He does note, however, that Aga has faced the challenge of induction hobs head-on by introducing a new range of Aga pans suitable for either kind of stovetop.

A good cooker deserves to be brilliantly looked after. A professional clean once or twice a year makes a huge difference to the performance and longevity of your oven. Eddie Lowe of Sparkle Oven Cleaning Co. Ltd guarantees a gleam using only non caustic substances in your home.

“We clean all kinds of cookers, commercial and domestic, including Agas, Ranges, ovens, hobs, microwaves and extractors.

We supply and replace oven bulbs, door seals, filters and other cooker parts. And the summer is a great time to get your Aga sorted before the cold weather sets in.”

• Sparkle Oven Cleaning Co. Ltd Tel: 01536 760268/07971 825745

Fordham Kitchens New Road, Ryhall, Stamford PE9 4HL Tel: 01780 482892; http://www.fordhamkitchensltd.co.uk Mark Goodacre Ltd Osgodby Farm, Osgodby, Grantham NG33 4JH Tel: 01476 586159; http://www.markgoodacrekitchens.com NGI Design 4-6 High St St Martin’s, Stamford PE9 2LF Tel: 01780 766899; http://www.ngidesign.co.uk Orchard Kitchens 1 Meadowview Business Units, Uffington Road, Uffington PE9 2EX Tel: 01780 753343; http://www.orchardwindows.com QKS The Maltings, Barnack Rd, Stamford PE9 2NA Tel: 01780 756514; http://www.qksstamford.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING August 2011

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FOOD & DRINK

Summer Fun, Food and Favours Sarah Lyon relishes the exuberant combination of a highly creative photographic team and a cakemaker

Dottie Creations and Photography Mandy and Zoe of Dottie Creations and Photography offer a totally bespoke styling of a couple’s wedding through to the styling of the photo shoot, designing and personalising everything including the confetti cones and labels. Their creative and fun personalities are reflected in their photography where they have a unique ability to capture the beauty and essence of those special moments.

To see more from the dottie girls visit their blog at http://www.trulymadlydottieblog. com/ Dottie Photography, Tel: 01945 773368, http://www.dottiephotography.co.uk/ Dottie Creations, Tel: 01354 660804, http:/ www.dottiecreations.com/

Couture Cakes Katie Watts of Couture Cakes adds some edible delights to Dottie Creations quirky sweetie ‘Pic and Mix’ table. Cherry topped cakes, ice cream meringues and sweet heart macaroons bring a sense of fun and flavour to this summer seaside shoot. Katie’s novelty creations are the perfect pudding for a summer wedding, special birthday or celebration.

Couture Cakes, Tel: 01775 630773/07968 596912, http://www.couture-cakes.co.uk/ Couture Cakes will attend The Essential Wedding Show at Burghley.

A date for your diary: This year’s Essential Weddings at Burghley Wedding Show is on Sunday Nov 6th. Tickets can be ordered at http:// essentialmediaevents.co.uk

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STAMFORD LIVING August 2011

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Party Venues to Suit Everyone The Crown Hotel, Stamford can look after events of up to 25 guests in their Upper Lounge, 55 guests in the Main Restaurant and 90 guests in the Main Restaurant and Front Restaurant combined.

Each party will have their own dedicated event planner who will also be there on the day to ensure all details are carried out as you would wish. Menus can be created for you from canapés, buffets, sit-down lunch or dinner and evening buffets.

All Saint's Place, Stamford, PE9 2AG t. 01780 763136 sally@thecrownhotelstamford.co.uk www.thecrownhotelstamford.co.uk

The Orangery at The Exeter Arms in Easton on the Hill is a beautiful setting for a smaller event for 25 people.

Marquees for up to 150 people can be erected on the paddock at the rear of the pub. Menus will be arranged through The Exeter Arms with a dedicated member of the team to look after your party from initial meeting through to the day itself.

21 Stamford Road, Easton on the Hill, PE9 3NS t. 01780 756321 sally@theexeterarms.net www.theexeterarms.net

The White Hart at Ufford is available for events in The Orangery for up to 40 people.

The adjacent ‘Pantry’ can be hired for entertainment and pre party drinks.

Both rooms are also licensed for a civil ceremony, each for up to 40 people.

A perfect setting for a relaxed and personalised party.

Main Street Ufford, Stamford, PE9 3BH t. 01780 740 250 sally@whitehartufford.co.uk www.whitehartufford.co.uk

Don’t forget Christmas is just around the corner!

For all wedding enquiries contact Sally Rouse on 01780 763136 or email sally@thecrownhotelstamford.co.uk All Saint’s Hotels Ltd. All Saint's Place, Stamford, PE9 2AG t. 01780 763136

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Beautiful lunches, delicious dinners and delightful ambience T he W illiam C eC il

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01780 750070

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FOOD NEWS

William Cecil Hotel, St Martin’s is now open The William Cecil has now opened in its fully re-furbished glory and we feel it’s capable of achieving great things. Really impressive outdoor space, so get down there on a sunny evening and you will not be disappointed.

The hotel has been transformed. Key to this has been reorienting the downstairs space towards the garden area, with two restaurants now on the back of the house. And the hotel aims to attract non-residents, with a door straight onto the street.

• William Cecil, St Martin’s, Stamford, PE9 2LJ Tel: 01780 750070 http://www.thewilliamcecil.co.uk/

Jackson Stops Inn, Stretton rejuvenated The Jackson Stops is definitely back on form. From the moment you walk in you feel that the couple who now run it on a day to day basis, Dave (chef) and Laura (front of house) Graveling, are in complete control. The outdoor area is looking immaculate and the inside rooms are charming and very individually-styled.

We had lunch in the larger room to the right, but there are also several tables in the smaller, quainter rooms to the left of the bar, so there is plenty of choice.

The lunch menu is exceptional value at £12 for two courses.

The standard of cooking throughout was good, and I would rate the experience at the top end of ‘great pub food’; not attempting to be a gastro pub, but offering really well cooked and interesting dishes.

For starters, I opted for the salmon with avocado and basil parfait; Helen had Saladette of chicken with Bacon and sugar snap peas; whilst Claudia opted for the fishcakes with dill dressing. All three were well cooked, with interesting flavours and delicious.

For the main course I chose the increasingly-popular restaurant dish of fish & chips – well cooked, good quality fish and 10 out of 10 for the ‘peas a-la-francais’ (much classier than mushy peas). Helen selected the pan-seared salmon, which she described as ‘crispy on the surface, moist inside, delicious’; and Claudia went for the Chicken Caesar salad, which she declared to be ‘just how I like it’.

We passed on the desserts, but they all looked present and correct so far as we could see from the menu. We opted instead for very well made coffees. The bill was a pleasant surprise, more what you might have expected to pay for two rather than three people. So, happy diners.

• The Jackson Stops Country Inn. Rookery Lane, Stretton, Rutland, LE15 7RA Tel: 01780 410237 http://www.thejacksonstops.com/

Lunch with a Difference at the William Cecil “Ladies who lunch for charity” is an opportunity for ladies to get together to meet new people, make new friends, learn something new and help a worthwhile charity all at the same time.

Starting on the 9th August at the William Cecil and continuing on the first Tuesday of every month thereafter, enjoy a two course meal and a fascinating talk for only £25 per head. £10 of the luncheon charge will be donated to Arthritis Research UK. Upcoming events – Make up Demonstration (Aug), Floral Demonstration (Sept), Alternative Pain Relief (Oct), Xmas Fayre (Nov), Christmas cooking (Dec) It is hosted by Meridian Network Solutions Ltd, a Stamfordbased Computer Support Company offering innovative and cost effective solutions to businesses in the surrounding areas.

• Contact Jane or Trish on 01780 482836 or Email: info@meridiannetworksolutions.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING August 2011

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weddings

ESSENTIAL

at Burghley

The stunning and exquisite Regional Wedding Show returns to Burghley House Sunday 6th November 2011 - 10am - 4.30pm Tickets: £5 in advance, plus Group Booking discounts in advance, or £6 on the day

Online at: www.essentialmediaevents.co.uk or call: 01780 766543 The 1st 400 registered brides to receive a stunning goody bag See the regions finest wedding exhibitors within the full splendour of Burghley House

A Beautiful Catwalk Show featuring the UK’s top wedding designers A grand musical firework finale to close the show Courtesy of Komodo Fireworks

Sparkling drinks reception and canapés, courtesy of Amps Fine Wines - Oundle, & Chefs Thyme - Peterborough

The Essential Wedding Show is part of the Essential Media Events Ltd and Local Living Magazines

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WHAT’S ON

Wednesdays 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 August at 1pm

Diary dates

Amander Meade selects some of the best entertainment in the region this month.

Monday 8 to Wednesday 10 August

August MONDAY

2

TUESDAY

3

WEDNESDAY

4

THURSDAY

5

FRIDAY

Monday 8 to Friday 12 August

6

SATURDAY

7 8

MONDAY

9

TUESDAY

10

WEDNESDAY

11

THURSDAY

12

FRIDAY

13

SATURDAY

14

SUNDAY

15

MONDAY

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TUESDAY

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WEDNESDAY

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THURSDAY

19

FRIDAY

20 Saturday 20 August CHARITY EVENT: Walk Ten Join other walkers on the beautiful Grimsthorpe Estate to enjoy a twilight stroll through the beautiful gardens and woodlands in support of Marie Curie Cancer Care.

Following the walk, families can enjoy live music and entertainment before gathering to mark 10pm, the time many families in Lincolnshire will be opening their door to a Marie Curie Nurse. Grimsthorpe Castle Adults £10, under 16 years free. Participants are encouraged to raise as much sponsorship as they can in support of Marie Curie Cancer Care.

• To register please call 08700 340 040 or email: walkten@mariecurie.org.uk

SUNDAY

EVENT: Artist in Residence Week A summer of creative activities – some sessions for families and some just for children. Themes include Create a Buzz – learning about bees, make creative cupcakes with Butterfly Buns, code-cracking fun with the John Clare Quest, the Bee and Butterfly Ball and Play in a Day. Workshop sessions from 10am to 3pm from just £10 per person.

• Clare Cottage, Helpston For booking, payment and further information Tel: 01733 253330 http://www.clarecottage.org/

SATURDAY

21

SUNDAY

22

MONDAY

23

TUESDAY

24

WEDNESDAY

25

THURSDAY

26

FRIDAY

27

SATURDAY

28

SUNDAY

29

MONDAY

30

TUESDAY

31

WEDNESDAY



SUMMER PROGRAMME: Magic, Myths and Legends Legends are the theme this summer in the grounds of Burghley House. Younger visitors can try to pull the sword from the stone and enjoy King Arthur’s Quest, a magic show, walkabout entertainers a bouncy assault course plus face painting and a BBQ. Burghley House, Stamford • Admission is free with a House and Garden or Gardens only ticket. http:// www.burghley.co.uk/ or Tel: 01780 752451

1

WORKSHOPS: Wildcats Theatre School Choose from Hip Hop Day with Winston Jean-Charles from Pineapple Dance Studios, Lion King master class with a cast member or dance the day away with a professional Jazz Dance tutor. Workshops held by award winning Wildcats Theatre School.

• For further information or to book Tel: 07725 915333 or visit http://www.wildcatstheatreschool.co.uk/



Saturday 30 July to Sunday 7 August

MUSIC: Music at St Martin’s Summer Lunchtime Organ Recitals A different prestigious musician will perform each week as part of this popular summer series playing music from a number of composers including Bach, Saint-Saens, Mendelssohn, Smart and Bach.

• Stamford Arts Centre Tickets £5 from Stamford Arts Centre Box Office or on the door with further information at http://www.music@stmartins.org/

Sunday 28 August, 10am to 5pm EVENT: Stamford Charity Car Show Organised by Stamford and District Round Table, the show will attract over five hundred owners with their cars, which vary from vintage to modern classics and prestige sports cars. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and fantastic surroundings, the day will end with a presentation of cups. Applications to show a vehicle or run a trade stand are most welcome through the website. All proceeds will go towards the Round Table’s Community Service Fund for local causes.

• Stamford Meadows Admission is free to both visitors and entrants. For further information visit http://www.stamfordroundtable.co.uk.

STAMFORD LIVING August 2011 39

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WHAT’S ON

Don’t miss…

The 50th Anniversary of the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials Thursday 1 to Sunday 4 September The Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials take place in the magnificent park of the Burghley Estate in Stamford. The event is considered the pinnacle of the eventing calendar and this year will attract the usual crop of top international competitors in this Olympic qualifier with a prize fund of £50,000. Outside the equestrian action, Burghley is renowned for its ‘retail experience’ and this year will not disappoint.

The outside shopping mall will host 400 plus exhibitors who are sure to have some surprise offers for the discerning shopper.

• Look out for special anniversary concessions and ticket offers – booking and further information Tel: 01933 304744 or http://www.burghley-horse.co.uk/

The Land Rover Festival Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 September Attracting Land Rover fans from all over the East of England, the show offers a wide variety of used Land Rovers on sale plus every sort of spare you could imagine on sale to upgrade your existing Land Rover.

You can even take your existing Land Rover off roading at a nearby quarry or rub shoulders with celebrity Land Rover fans such as Top Gear’s Richard Hammond. A day out for all the family with loads of trade stands, children’s amusements, and some great Countryside arena attractions.

• Discounted tickets are available for this year’s show Tel: 0871 230 7152

Birdfair 2011 – the world’s largest international bird watching event Friday 19 to Sunday 21 August Birdfair encompasses the whole spectrum of the bird watching industry whilst at the same time supporting global bird conservation. This is the event of the year if you’re into birds and wildlife. There are hundreds of stands selling the latest products for wildlife enthusiasts. You’ll find everything, from scopes to sculptures, binoculars to bird food. Every day there is a packed programme of events and a fantastic variety of lectures. The Events Marquee hosts quiz shows, question and answer sessions, exclusive book launches and family-based entertainment. The Birdfair Auction offers you the chance to bid for a whole host of lots, donated by our exhibitors, ranging from holidays, to artwork, to unique one-off experiences, with all the monies raised going directly to this year’s Birdfair project.

• For further information, ticket bookings or to volunteer to help at the fair Tel: 01572 771079 http://www.birdfair.org.uk/

56 STAMFORD 40 STAMFORDLIVING LIVINGOctober August 2011 2010

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Room to Live

Image of Local installation by QKS

Showroom Cherryholt Road, Stamford, PE9 2EQ

Creators of finest quality bespoke Orangeries & Conservatories

Tel: 01780 756666

Orangeries Lanter n Rooms Conservatories

Mon-Fri 9am-5pm,

Windows Doors Folding Sliding Door Systems

Sat 10am-3pm

Vertical Sliding Windows Roofline Products Porches

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Heritage Secondary Glazing

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an

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41

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Your local Professional L aw n T r e aT m e n T S e r v i c e • weed and moss control • scarification • hollowtine aeration • fertilisation Spring, Summer, autumn & winter treatments for your lawn at a price that doesn’t cost the earth.

For a Free Quotation Call t: 01780 753575 m: 07734 693253 e: andy@lawndoctor.freeserve.co.uk w: www.countrywidelawndoctor.co.uk

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

Why replace your timber windows when you can restore? Traditional Restoration offers a cost-saving alternative to window replacement. Also: • Repairs and renovations • Overhaul and draught proofing • Reglazing and reputtying For a free, no obligation estimate please call James on:

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42

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ASK LEO SPECIAL

The Sign Brings Customers Jean Orpin and Sue Lee have been exploring Stamford’s pictorial pub signs

W

hen most of the population was illiterate, pictorial signs were essential to advertise hostels and inns. The first Inn signs were created by the Romans, who erected ‘tabernas’ along their roads. Instead of the vine leaves used in Rome, trade was advertised with a bush on a stick. An early picture sign was the mitre when monasteries provided refreshment for travellers, then in 1393, King Richard II made it a legal requirement, “Whoever shall brew ale in town with the intention of selling it must hang out a sign otherwise he shall forfeit his ale.”

There are many different ways of displaying signs. Most have signs hanging from the building but a few have a gantry across the street like ‘The George,’ others have a painted sign on the wall. Some hang from a post like The Drum and Monkey and the Hurdler signs.

Originally signs were made of wood but today they can be made of plastic, metal or even glass.

Sign Painting In the past signs were sometimes executed by artists: Hogarth, Richard Wilson and Millais all painted sign boards. Most sign painters, however, were self-taught itinerants. There are still artists today who are employed as sign writers by breweries.

We have a local company, Barkers Signs of Great Casterton, who paint and restore

signs. Two examples are the Lord Burghley on Broad St, and the Green Man on Scotgate. The Lincolnshire Poacher sign was restored in 1995 by the Barkers but after a change of ownership it was taken down and replaced firstly with The Pear Tree, a digital image, and currently with lettering.

Inn signs do not survive unless the business closes as they are usually repainted if pubs change their name. The Daniel Lambert has recently been painted over for the second time: underneath Daniel Lambert was the sign for The Reindeer, the name of the previous business. The attractive Swan sign was removed when the pub changed its name to the Punchbowl.

Some breweries like a corporate sign. John Smith’s Brewery in Yorkshire design their own signs, the Drum and Monkey is one of these with the drum and monkey in silhouette.

Samuel Smith’s Brewery choose painted signs.

St Mary’s Vaults sign has an original view of their garden. The most modern pictorial inn sign in Stamford is The Dolphin, in North St, which is an actual photograph, a style chosen

by Charles Wells Brewery. Another modern method is the computer generated King’s Head.

A History Lesson The pictures on inn signs often reflect the history of the town. Here in Stamford, the

sign of the Jolly Brewer, on West St, reminds us that brewing was an important industry while the Millstone, in All Saints, demonstrates the importance of milling. The sign of the Golden Fleece, in the Sheepmarket, must have overlooked the thousands of sheep sold here at the St Simon and St Jude Fair in November.

Important people connected with the town are pictured on our pub signs, such as The Lord Burghley in Broad Street and The Hurdler in New Cross Road (where the sign shows the 6th Marquess of Exeter who won the gold hurdles medal in the 1928 Olympic Games).

Changing Fashions Fortunately in Stamford we still have some pictorial signs which do add to the streetscape but nevertheless they are disappearing fast.

Unfortunately, many pubs and inns now have lettered signs.

Obviously the need for pictures is unnecessary as literacy is no longer a problem. Many pubs have replaced their colourful signs with lettered signs. Some breweries favour lettering to give a corporate image; others feel that car drivers will notice a lettered sign and might overlook a pictorial one. Lettering is also a cheaper option.

Surely, with so many other lettered hanging signs, advertising all sorts of trades, a building is more likely to be noticed and recognised as a pub if it has a pictorial sign?

STAMFORD LIVING August 2011

43 leo special.indd 1

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CARPENTRY

ACCOUNTANTS

FUNERAL DIRECTOR

DOG WALKING

Andrew Woodhouse

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All types of PC and Laptop repairs and upgrades undertaken Broadband & wireless installation Data recovery On site set up included on all new PC’s purchased from ACR. Also on site training for all first time users.

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Why does the computer always play up in the evenings when the repair shops are shut?

Help available until 9pm including weekends.

Computer repair and support for home and business A complete service for all your computing needs Bill & Sue Crowe Tel: 01780 754043 Mob: 07766833076 www.bcit.co.uk Email: bill@bcit.co.uk

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• • • • • •

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• Renewable Energy Steve Rudkin

Steve Steve Steve Rudkin Rudkin Rudkin Steve Rudkin Steve Rudkin

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•

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â&#x20AC;˘ SL August Directory.indd 52

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21/7/11 14:05:34

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• SL August Directory.indd 53

Phone Andy 01780 752055 Mob: 07977 696646

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DIRECTORY

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2011 edition out now!

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21/7/11 12:04:03

ALISON HUTCHINSON

LIVING THE GOOD LIFE

Tracey Mathieson In this month’s ‘Living the Good Life’ feature, local Interior and Garden Designer Alison Hutchinson meets fellow gardening enthusiast Tracey Mathieson of Foxtail Lilly

T

racey’s shop and garden, Foxtail Lilly, on the outskirts of Oundle house a treasure trove of unusual antique and vintage pieces displayed alongside her flowers. She set up the business in 2004 and provides a specialist service for fresh cut flowers, many grown in her own garden and in the cutting garden she has created out of an adjoining field. She has a vast array of vintage pieces so not only can you buy her fresh flowers but you can also take a piece of pretty floral china or a strong coloured 1930s glass vase or jug to display them in.

Tracey is self-taught, both as a gardener and a florist, and her exuberant floristry style is free and comfortable, encapsulating the best of fresh country flowers. “I did start a city and guilds floristry course but I found it too regimented for me,” she explained. Instead her flowers, bouquets and wedding flowers come from her love of colour and knowledge of what works together. You only have to look around her garden with its island beds and weaving gravel paths to see where her inspiration comes from.

“Running the business is really just an excuse to do all the things I love: buy plants and flowers, grow flowers and buy vintage pieces without feeling guilty,” she explains. I understand exactly what she means so I asked if her house was full of her special finds. “Our house is full of stuff,” she laughs, “but over the years I’ve got better at buying for the shop – I spend Mondays and Tuesdays when the shop is closed hunting around antique markets and auctions. I instantly know whether a piece is going to be for me or for the shop,” she says.

With so much to do I wonder how she manages to look so relaxed. “Well my two children now help, our daughter works in the shop at weekends and she’s got a great eye for vintage pieces. My husband also works with me, it’s not his passion, as it is mine, but he’s the second in command. His passion is climbing and he too has decided that the time is right to follow his love and has re-trained as a climbing instructor and is working locally. It’s better than having an affair,” Tracey laughs, “I’ve seen too many people go down that route as part of a mid-life crisis!”

And what of the future? Tracey has just converted another of the family barns so she can start running garden and flower workshops and will also host events with other local craftspeople as teachers. She has been asked to open a tea shop but thinks that’s a step too far for her but won’t rule out someone else coming and running a tea shop alongside her – subject to local planning etc etc. But her real coup this year is an appearance on a new TV programme about best loved gardens with Alan Titchmarch to be aired on ITV1 in September. “The TV company has done an enormous amount of research and filmed me and Alan in the garden in June so I’m looking forward to seeing it. And it should coincide with our open garden on Sunday 11 September when the garden is full of late colour. I love the height and textures at this time of year and the colours from the dahlias make it quite special,” she explained.

• Foxtail Lilly, 41 South Road, Oundle, PE8 4BP. Open Weds to Sat 10am – 5pm.

Tel: 01832 274593. www.foxtail-lilly.co.uk

8 NENE 46 STAMFORD VALLEYLIVING LIVINGAugust July 2008 2011

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Oakham, LE15

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Charming period stone house, with many original features - a former village inn. Four bedrooms, four reception rooms, two bathrooms.

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