Stamford Living January 2013

Helping

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STAMFORD LIVING food/fashion/health

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LO C A LLY

garden/lifestyle

Welcome to 2013 Get fit, be inspired!

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goodwin

www.goodwinpropertyservices.co.uk

Residential Sales • Lettings • Mortgages

Matching the right person to the right home is all about listening to our customers needs, understanding their priorities and matching these requirements with the vast range of properties we have available.

With four decades of experience within the Stamford area, our team prides itself on the personal attention they provide.

Let us help you find the right property for you and your family. Buying, Selling, Letting - it’ll be our pleasure!

The key to your new home!

Sales

Somerby

Lettings

£465,000

Architect designed 4 bedroom home providing flexible living accommodation. A large entrance hall overlooked by a feature galleried landing allowing access to the living accommodation. Living room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Dining room, Study, Family room/bed 4, downstairs bathroom.

Large single garage

Careby

Braceborough

£374,950 Great Casterton

A charming extended detached home in the delightful village of Careby. The property enjoys fantastic views to the front and rear and also benefits from a small paddock, stable and tack room/workshop.

Accommodation: Sitting Room, Dining Room, Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Living Room, downstairs Shower Room, 4 Bedrooms and en suite.

£599,950 Wittering

Situated in a secluded position, this detached bungalow offers family sized accommodation in fantastic surroundings. Four bedrooms, four bathrooms, large lounge, dining room, open plan kitchen/breakfast area with an atrium style glass ceiling. The rear garden (1.3 ACRES sts) is mainly laid to lawn with mature borders and trees.

£295,000

Extremely well presented 3 bed bungalow with open views to the front in this ever popular village.

The property has a good size rear garden with a separate vegetable patch. Accommodation briefly comprises: Entrance hall, Lounge, Kitchen, Conservatory/Dining room, 3 Bedrooms and a Bathroom. Detached garage and workshop.

Residential Sales

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£595 pcm

Stamford

£650 pcm

A lovely two bedroom end-of-terrace property in a quiet position on the edge of the village with views over the church to the rear. Parking to the front and a good sized private garden with patio to the rear.

Upstairs the two well-proportioned bedrooms are well served by the family bathroom and en-suite.

Lovely renovated two story town house in a sought-after location close to the centre of town.

Beautiful reception room and fitted kitchen with cooker. Two bedrooms and fitted bathroom.

Small enclosed patio garden. Situated just south of the river and an easy walk into the town. On street parking. Garage included.

Kings Cliffe

Wansford

£950 pcm

Situated in the heart of a popular village, this modern stone built detached family home is well-presented throughout and comprises of three bedrooms. Benefiting from a separate two story barn which has been converted to an office with storage area. Private enclosed rear garden and off road parking.

Lettings

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£1,250 pcm

Established and spacious detached family home set in a sought-after area. Comprising of four bedrooms, the property is approached by a private driveway leading to a double garage and provides an open aspect over countryside to the rear. Extensive terracing and formal gardens to the rear running down to a brook.

Mortgages

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

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S TA M FOR D LIVING

JANUARY CONTENTS W

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What does 2013 hold for us?

2012 was one of the best of years and the worst of years. One of the best for sporting achievement in every sphere, one of the worst for the economic difficulties that face us and the economic hardship that results from that.

This year can’t possibly be as exhilarating sporting-wise, so let’s hope instead that it’s the year that the economy begins to truly recover.

Stamford is perfectly poised to benefit from any upswing, with a good mix of employment and a retail & hospitality appeal to visitors from right across the region.

So let’s be modest in our aims for 2013: an improving economy and Andy Murray winning Wimbledon! Oh, and some much better summer weather.

Nicholas Rudd-Jones Editor

@LocalLivingUK 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 Warners of Bourne

Riverside Café Now opeN 7 Days a week

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UPDATES, SHOPPING 14

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Updates: Equilibrium, the No. 10 store in Little Bytham, Aspect Fires Updates: Newborough Dental & Skin Clinic, Shaw’s Coaches 2013 programme, The Stamford Wine Company Updates: Holidaying in the Maldives, Copthill’s VIP guest, Charity Challenge

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY 4 8

Fashion: Lounging about Health & Beauty: Losing a stone in four weeks

HOME, GARDEN AND MOTORING 26 28 38

Motoring: New 2013 models Design Interiors: Kitchen gadgets Travel: January Getaways

4 FASHION: LOUNGING ABOUT

FOOD & DRINK 40 43 44 47

Eating Out: Jackson Stops Inn Food & Drink: Britain’s Best Bakery!

Food & Drink: Traditional Puddings & Cakes Eating Out: The Gallery Restaurant at Stamford College; Lunch for Less

ACTIVITIES, LEARNING & BUSINESS 10 20

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Business: Stamford & Rutland Business Awards Writer’s Spot: Something Wonderful Short Story Competition 8 LOSE A STONE IN FOUR WEEKS Local Walk: Fotheringhay and Woodnewton Local business: Solicitors, Accountants & Financial Services What’s On

PEOPLE & PLACES 22 51 54

Local History: North Luffenham’s part in the Cold War Ask Leo Special: St Peter’s St Stamford People: Couchsurfers

44 TRADITIONAL PUDDINGS & CAKES

43 BRITAIN’S BEST BAKERY!

Cover Photo: Burghley House from the Lion Bridge, built by Capability Brown in 1778; photo by Lyndsay Ford at ShutterBox Photography Mob: 07580 388880 www.shutterboxphotography.co.uk

Riverside Decorative arts & antiques

Beautiful Costume Jewellery & Accessories T h e R i ve rsid e , W ha r f Ro a d , S ta mford , PE9 2 DU - Em ai l: i n fo@ ri v e rsi d e st amfo r d.c o .u k

Mob: 07773 800804 info@thierrydaugeron.co.uk

STAMFORD Living JANUARY 2013

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Fa s hion Inside r

Lounge Life

Sally Stillingfleet snuggles up at Claire Langley Antiques and finds the perfect casual wear for lounging about in post-Christmas!

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he idea for this feature came from a make-over story I did in the autumn. My model Sam ( from Marcia May ) commented that she could never dress up in the day as her outfits also had to work for her at home - i.e. cooking the tea etc. and doing domestic chores!

Rosie from Cavells and I explained that we always change when we get home, into our ‘comfy

Left: Karen wears cashmere blend cardigan £75 with grey casual pants £25 and long sleeved basic T shirt £15 all Esprit with grey Emu slippers £50 Right: Danni wears basic white Esprit cami £12 under Nice Things teal cardigan £65 Caro printed floral PJs £30 all from Attic. Cream Moshulu slippers £34.99 Marcia May Shoes. Mini hot-water bottles from Cavells.

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clothes!’ This signals the end of the working day and ensures that your ‘work clothes’ remain pristine.

If you type ‘Loungewear’ into Google a whole plethora of suggestions appears. Jersey and cashmere, pretty cotton PJs and snuggly slippers, perfect for spending the evening in or sleeping in.

We take a look at what is available locally.

Karen wears Chanel (new!) cashmere sweater dress, £350, with Donna Karen grey cashmere lounge pants £90 both Arch Label Agency

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Danni wears coral star two-piece Maison Scotch top £65 from Energy worn with Lounge Life casual pants £39.00 as before. Christopher Kane cashmere scarf from Arch Label Agency £250

Above: Powell Craft pure cotton classic PJs (with matching dressing gowns) from £31.50, blanket £45 all from You and Beyond.

Right: Danni wears ‘Rock’sequined jumper from So £40, worn with Lounge Life pants £39.00 from Chameleon and (new) Emu slippers £60 from Arch Label Agency

CONTACTS So, 7 Ironmonger Street, Stamford Tel: 01780 480777 Energy, 9 Ironmonger St. Tel: 01780 765633 Attic, 33 St Mary’s Street, Stamford.

Tel: 01780 766667 Marcia May Shoes, 41 St. Mary’s St, Stamford.

Tel: 01780 766608 Arch Label Agency, 10a Maiden Lane, Stamford. Tel: 01780 764746 Chameleon, 22 Mill Street Oakham Tel: 01572 720222 5 St Mary’s Hill, Stamford. Tel: 01780 755405 You & Beyond, 30 St. Mary’s St. Stamford.

Tel: 01780 755405 Danni wears Freya secret support top £34.00 and DKNY casual striped leggings £27 and Casa slipper boots £25. Karen wears Elle McPherson black top £25 and silky Ikat print bottoms £55 all from Chameleon. Red cashmere ‘V’ neck Alexander McQueen sweater £250 from Arch Label Agency.

Ruby and Ed slippers from Marcia May Shoes £27.99

THANKS TO • Photography by Elli Dean www.rutlandphotographer.co.uk Karen and Danni, many thanks to them both for modeling.

• Thanks also to Faith (Perch & Preen) for doing the make-up. Tel: 01572 755096 • Thanks to Claire Langley Antiques and Julie for being so hospitable and allowing us to ‘lounge’ on the fabulous antiques! All furniture used is for sale.

7 High Street, St Martin’s Stamford Tel: 01780 752555 www.clairelangleyantiques.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2013

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19/12/12 11:27:04

Toe-Tally advert:Layout 1 13/02/2012 15:57 Page 1

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Aesthetics: Aesthetics: Electrolysis –- Permanent Permanent Hair •• Electrolysis HairRemoval Removal Permanent Make-Up •• Permanent Make-Up Advanced Cosmetic •• Advanced CosmeticProcedures Procedures– -Remove Remove or Visibly Reduce a Variety or Visibly Reduce a VarietyofofSkin SkinLesions: Lesions: Skin Tags Tags Skin Milia (Milk Job Opportunities Milia [Milk Spots) Spots] Thread Veins Veins for Podiatrist / Thread Common Warts Chiropodist Common Warts && more More • Free Consultation Enquire within Plus Free Consultation •Gift Vouchers Available

Health & Beauty Therapy 2 Mallory lane, StaMford tel. 01780 763768

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For further information, call Paula on:

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10 High Street, St Martins Stamford, PE9 2LF

Formally InStep Clinic

bring this ad to claim your discount.

www.renaissancebeauty.co.uk

JOIN FOR FREE* Lose weight today at Rosemary Conley Classes

“I went from a size 18 to a 10 in 6 months!”

New Classes starting 2nd January 2013!

Follow us on

Before

Member Alison, 43.

MONDAY Wittering Parish Hall, Townsend Road, Wittering, Peterborough, PE8 6AB 09:30 - 11:00 am (Slim & Aerobics) 6:00 - 7:30 pm (Slim & Aerobics) TUESDAY The Red Hall, Red Hall, South Street, Bourne, PE10 9LY 09:30 - 11:00 am (Slim & Aerobics)

TUESDAY Oundle C Of E Primary School Milton Road, Oundle, Peterborough, PE8 4AB 6:00 - 7:30 pm (Slim & Aerobics) WEDNESDAY Kings Cliffe Active, Kingsmead, Station Road, Kings Cliffe, Peterborough, PE8 6YH 09:30 - 11:00 am (Slim & Aerobics) The Danish Invader Empingham Road, Stamford, PE9 2SX 6:00 - 7:30 pm (Slim & Aerobics) 7:30 - 9:00 pm (Slim & Aerobics)

THURSDAY Stamford Arts Centre 27 St. Marys Street, Stamford, PE9 2DL 09:30 - 11:00 am (Slim & Aerobics) The Red Hall Red Hall, South Street, Bourne, PE10 9LY 6:00 - 7:30 pm (Slim & Aerobics) 7:30 - 9:00 pm (Slim & Aerobics)

JOIN FOR FREE!*

includes free Pack *New members only. Valid until 15/02/2013. £5.95 class fee applies. Bring voucher to claim.

call deborah on 07775 431059

deborah.rolfe@rosemaryconley.com www.rosemaryconley.com

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For safe, sustainable weight loss call

Sophie Driver Nutritionist at the Broad Street Practice

on 01780 480889

Lose Weight For Good This January!

One to One Sessions and Group Events 25% Off Initial One to One Consultations (January Only!)

Nutrition and Weight Loss Course at Stamford Arts Centre, Starting 11th January, 6.30-7.30pm (6 week duration) – BOOK NOW AS PLACES ARE LIMITED!

MAPLES WISH YOU ALL A HAPPY NEW YEAR WITH OUR JANUARY OFFERS • Book any facial and get a FREE 1/2 hour back neck and shoulder massage • Book a full Body Massage for ONLY £30 • Book an Indian Head Massage for ONLY £20 • Book a cut and colour with a Stylist and get 30% OFF your colour Quote “Jan 2013 offer” on booking to qualify.

£10

OFF

Can only be used on treatment worth £30 or over and not in conjunction with any other offer.

Valid until end of Feb 2013

Healthy Eating ‘Launch’ Evening at Equilibrium, 10th January, 7-9pm For more information, please visit www.shawnutrition.co.uk or call Imogen on 07854 252437.

ry ff ua % O n Ja 25 le Sa

New Year New You Eyebrow Threading

£7.50

(January offer only) Geleration Nails File and Polish

Only £17

A2B A2B Pilates Pilates

(January offer only)

JANUARY DATES JANUARY DATES Stamford Stamford

January................................................ 9.30 - 10.30 Monday Starts Starts 14th 14th January ................................................ 9.30 - 10.30 Monday

Nassington

Nassington Already started ....................................................... 7.00 - 8.00

Monday

Already started ....................................................... 7.00 - 8.00 Monday

Nassington

Starts 9th January ............................................ 9.30 - 10.30 Wednesday Nassington

w w w. f l a w l e s s f a c e s . c o. u k

Starts 9th January ............................................ 9.30 - 10.30 Wednesday

Please call for more details on 01832 275390 or 07710 780854 Please call for morecall details 01832 details 275390 oron 07710 780854 Please foronmore

01832 275390 or 07710 780854

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Hea lth & Be aut y

The New Year challenge

If you’ve over-indulged this Christmas and are deciding on whether to hit the gym, overhaul your diet, or a combination of both, Genevieve Potter provides inspiration, as fitness expert Andy Henson and leading nutritionist Sophie Driver chart the progress of two of their clients who have recently been embarking on brand new regimes

The Nutritionist

Sophie is an experienced Nutritional Therapist who works from Stamford’s Broad Street Practice and trained at the Institute of Optimum Nutrition in London (she’s also a member of the British Association for Applied Nutrition and Nutritional Therapy, and is registered with the Complementary Natural Healthcare Council). She has helped people of all ages with a wide range of issues including skin and gut disorders, hormonal imbalances, pre-pregnancy support and sports nutrition.

She also provides a nine-week weight loss plan, which helps to teach clients how to eat the right foods to balance blood sugar levels and increase energy to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

Sophie worked with Kirsty, who had gained about 4.5kg (10lbs) since her wedding in the early summer. Kirsty manages a local preschool and has three children, so with limited time, she needed to be able to fit the weight loss plan into her schedule. Kirsty’s goal was to achieve her wedding weight.

Week One During the initial consultation Kirsty’s full health history and measurements were taken. Sophie spent time with Kirsty working through weekly menu plans and shopping lists and provided plenty of easy to prepare, tasty recipes. The meals and snacks had all been designed to keep blood sugar levels balanced; Kirsty also kept a food and drink diary to help Sophie monitor and tailor the programme to suit her tastes and lifestyle.

At the start of her plan, Kirsty’s waist to hip ratio was 0.82 and her waist was 53% of her height. Ideally a waist to hip ratio should be 0.8 or less, and the waist should be less than half the height. Despite not being “overweight” Kirsty’s ratios were slightly higher than they should ideally be, and as a predictor of health, these are more useful than relying on the scales alone.

Week Two Kirsty returned for her weekly weigh-in the following week – weight loss 1.6kg – which was a great start. More importantly, Kirsty found that her bloating and IBS had gone and she had increased energy levels.

Week Three Kirsty lost another 0.5kg this week and was finding the meals easy to fit into her life.

However Tuesday evenings, where she went straight to college, were problematic as she was tempted by crisps and junk snacks. Sophie suggested some healthy alternatives to keep hunger at bay.

Week Four Another 0.5kg loss this week and Kirsty was finding that by being prepared with healthy snacks on her college day, she was not reaching for salty, fatty junk foods. Having experimented over the weekend she had discovered that it was bread that caused her bloating and upset tummy.

At the end of the programme, Kirsty’s total weight loss was 2.6kg and she felt confident that she would carry on the food plan and keep steadily losing a little more weight. She felt slimmer and indeed her measurements had a more dramatic improvement than her weight, indicating that she had lost fat, rather than muscle. This is the opposite of crash diets,

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which rarely work in the long term, because they may trick your body into an evolutionary starvation response, where fat and muscle are burnt to provide energy.

Vital statistics after four weeks Bust -2cm Waist -3cm Hips -4cm Thigh -3cm each Waist to hip ratio was very close to the ideal, at 0.81 and waist measurement was 51% of her height, closer to the ideal of 50% or less.

Kirsty benefited from Sophie’s programme that supports and educates clients to take control and maintain a healthy weight and diet for the rest of their lives and commented: “Attending The Broad Street Clinic, meeting Sophie each week, has kept me motivated and on task to lose the weight that I gained during my honeymoon this summer.

“Sophie has shown me that by changing my diet, I will be able to maintain my perfect weight.”

• Sophie Driver, The Broad Street Practice, 20-21 Broad Street, Stamford Tel: 01780 480889 www.thebroadstreetpractice.co.uk

The Personal Trainer

Andy Henson is an experienced, insured and fully qualified Personal Trainer. His work is divided between Westside Health and Fitness Club in Stamford and the luxurious Grange Spa in Pointon, near Bourne. He also sees clients at their homes or outside if they prefer.

Andy has experience in helping all types of client from those wishing to lose weight, improve general fitness, runners who want to progress from novice to completing marathons, to helping rugby teams pre-season to improve their strength and stamina. All training is fun and varied, including weights and cardiovascular training, which could include boxing, kettlebells and TRX resistance training.

Andy recently worked with client Sara Stafford for four weeks. Apart from walking her dogs, Sarah was previously a non-exerciser. In

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his role as a Personal Trainer, Andy emphasises that no matter how much effort you put in to exercising you can’t train out a bad diet, so generally he asks clients to commit to writing a food diary to see where any issues may be.

However, with Sara, Andy purely focused on exercise for four weeks, to see the results that could be achieved.

Andy used a combination of cardiovascular and strength using both free weights and fixed resistance machines, plus some boxing and kettle bell work. Andy met Sarah two to three times a week over four weeks and the sessions were divided between two different gyms, as well as working outside to fit around Sara’s schedule. Sara put a huge amount of effort in to each session.

At the end of the four weeks which equated to 12, one hour sessions, Sara had lost only a kilo in actual body weight, all of it in body fat, but more importantly had lost seven inches in total over the whole body, toning up and looking in much better shape. The results were visually obvious and Sara could also pull her belt much tighter!

Sara’s outlook on exercise completely changed for the better and she now needs to combine the hard exercise with a closer look at her daily calorie intake, what she eats and when she eats, to enable greater weight loss as well as toning.

Vital statistics after four weeks Bust -2 inches Waist -1.5 inches Hips -0.5 inch Thighs -2 inches Arms -1 inch Sara felt this was a great start and commented: “The sessions with Andy were fun and varied and as a result I have now joined my local gym and actually look forward to training.

“Although my weight loss was minimal after the four weeks, my body shape changed, I lost inches, feel more toned and have much more energy.”

Andy normally charges £35 per session and £300 for 10 sessions.

However during January he is offering clients the chance to buy and pay for a block of session at £300 and get two sessions free. A free initial consultation, including body fat and blood pressure check is included.

• Andy can be contacted on 07891 444189 or email ahenson@talktalk.net

The verdict

It’s wrong to believe that you can “mitigate” what you eat by exercising alone, although the benefits of exercise are obvious (for Sara even in a short period of four weeks). Hiring a personal trainer like Andy can also massively increase your commitment and motivation.

In the long term, if you want to reach and maintain a healthy weight, you need to first start with a close look at your diet, which is where a trained expert like Sophie can really help you understand the detail and manage your eating habits for life.

OTHER CONTACTS FOR THE NEW YOU Nutritionist Imogen Shaw runs Shaw Nutrition from Stamford and offers one to one nutrition sessions, group seminars/workshops and weight loss groups. Imogen is a Public Health Nutritionist which means that, although she is able to help people with particular health conditions, she specialises in weight loss and improving people’s overall health in order to prevent diet related illnesses from occurring.

Shaw Nutrition is offering limited places on a sixweek weight loss course at Stamford Arts Centre, starting from 11th January and is also holding a launch evening at Equilibrium, Stamford on Thursday, 10th January. Contact Imogen for more details and to book. www.shawnutrition.co.uk Tel: 07854 252437 Stamford Boot Camp is run by Rob Dulieu who has a great reputation for getting his clients in to shape, fast. Rob is offering a New Year fitness and nutrition package to help transform and reenergise you after festive overindulgence. Visit the website for client testimonials and details of the accelerated fat loss programme (worth £249),

which is free when you sign up for the Morning Boot Camp silver membership. www.stamfordbootcamp.co.uk Tel: 07846 457959

The quick option

If you’re feeling the post-Christmas bloat, the Classic and Elite treatments by Universal Contour at Equilibrium can help to remove toxins and target stubborn areas (but should not take the place of a healthy eating and exercise regime!). Each wrap combines a unique blend of detoxifying mineral rich clay combined with specialist body wrapping techniques to create instant inch loss. The treatment also includes a complimentary express facial (worth £30).

If you book and pay for a course of three treatments, costing £165 (Classic) or £200 (Elite), you will receive a complimentary Universal Contour home products goody bag worth over £50. (Please mention Stamford Living at the time of booking; courses must be completed by 31st January).

• Equilibrium 7 St Paul’s Street, Stamford Tel: 01780 757579 www.equilibriumstamford.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2013

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BUS INES S AWAR DS

Local Living Business Awards Recognising Great Customer Service

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Categories

The benefits of winning an award

• The Employer of the Year • The Employee of the Year • The Entrepreneur of the Year • The Outstanding Personal Achievement Award • The SME of the Year Award • The Best New Business Award • The E-commerce Award • The Sustainability Award • The Innovation Award • The Marketing Initiative Award • The Creative Design Award

he most hotly contested category in any business awards scheme is the one for customer focus, with reputations having been built and destroyed on the basis of their customer services record. Businesses are always keen to showcase their skills in this area.

Have you received outstanding service from your local businesses? If you feel that any of these businesses have gone above and beyond in their efforts to offer excellent customer service and you feel they should be recognised for those efforts then please complete the form below for each business you’re recommending.

Awards such as this help to provide a measure of the quality of service in a region with the winners being held as examples to the rest of the business community, something that can only benefit the customers of the businesses in the long run.

Entries, thus far, have come in from 9 different business sectors and cover all 11 categories with a particular focus on the Best SME and Best New Business categories.

Whilst some may find it uncomfortable to put themselves forward for awards it is worth remembering that it forms an important part of a quality marketing mix. That is why all of the FTSE 500 companies regularly enter awards schemes.

Companies feel relaxed about placing advertisements; after all it’s a great way to tell people how good your business is. Awards are an extension of this philosophy and as such should be incorporated into any annual marketing plan. Winners get direct and substantial benefits, with increases in web traffic and media coverage. In the longer term the ability to include the phrase “award winning” in your marketing material does a tremendous amount to encourage new customers and loyalty from your existing clients. To help novices with business awards entries, we are offering coaching sessions for a small fee, with our advisors visiting businesses and ensuring their entries are as strong as possible. Just contact Nicky Barr at Nicky@essenceevents.co.uk for more details.

To find out more about each of the available categories, the eligibility criteria for the awards and to submit your entries for the 2013 awards please see the application form on www.localliving-business-awards.co.uk/awards. All entries need to be submitted no later than 1st February 2013.

• The awards will be presented at a Gala Dinner held at Barnsdale Lodge Hotel on Wed 20 March 2013.

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There are 12 different categories available so there is ample opportunity for all our local businesses to share their successes with the community. The categories are as follows:

Customer Focus Award Nomination Form Send your completed forms to: Nicky Barr, Local Living Business Awards, 13 Cherry Holt Road, Bourne. Lincs, PE10 9LA or nominations@local-living-business-awards.co.uk Business Name:.........................................................................................................................................................

Address:........................................................................................................................................................................

Business type (i.e. shop, service provider, supplier, etc):...........................................................................

Date(s) visited/used the service: (if a frequent customer just put on-going)..................................

Who served you?:.....................................................................................................................................................

What made the service stand out?:.................................................................................................................. ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................

Your name: (your details will not be shared with anyone else)..................................................................

Contact Number:.....................................................................Email:.....................................................................

Signature:........................................................................Date:...................................................................................

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sale % 5 7 The Sinclairs

Winter

Save up to

off in our biggest ever Sale!

Waterford Crystal Giftware eg. Photo Frame Was £65.00 Now £35.00 up to

60% OFF

ALESSI Pots & Pans 24cm Stock Pot & Lid Was £103.00 Now £49.00 NOW HALF PRICE!

Waterford John Rocha Imprint Hat Box 6 x Red Wine Was £225.00 Now £79.00 65% OFF

Royal Doulton Mode Dinnerware Example: 27cm Plate Was £8.00 Now £3.95 22cm Plate Was £7.00 Now £3.50

50% OFF RRP

Starts 9.30am Thursday 27th December SHOP ONLINE... www.sinclairsonline.co.uk

Sinclairs of Stamford |

11 St. Mary’s Street, Stamford, Lincs. T. 01780 765421 11

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20%

OFF SALE ALL SERVICES* valid from december 27th 2012 to 28th February 2013

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• SL JAN ADS.indd 12

18/12/12 16:09:32

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9 Ironmonger St. Stamford - Tel 01780 765633 Mon – Sat 9.30-5.30 Sun 11.00-4.00 www.barnack.co.uk

13

• SL JAN ADS.indd 13

18/12/12 16:09:50

Upd ates

The No.10 Store, Little Bytham Sarah Lyon pays a visit to a thriving local shop that is at the forefront of fresh, local produce “We have worked hard to create something quite unique here in Little Bytham and are pleased to say that The No.10 Store has gone from strength to strength since we opened 18 months ago,” says owner Meg Overend.

The No.10 Store has become an integral part of the village where Meg’s exuberant, warm personality. combined with a great selection of quality local produce, set the No.10 Store apart from a supermarket shop and give people a great reason to visit.

“We worked hard to get the balance right between essentials and speciality products,” says Meg. “We offer a selection of Saints & Sinners Jams (strawberry is a favourite) and a wonderful Autumn Chutney; a wide range

Familyrun firm offers the personal touch in fires

of cheese from the Cheese Cellar in Stamford; delicious bread from Bloomsbury Bakery in Grantham and even great baking flour that has been milled using grain grown in Little Bytham itself.” Organic milk arrives from Lubcloud Dairy. “I love their ethos,” says Meg. “They

“Aspect Fires is a familyrun business which was established in 1977 by my late father Mr Arthur Corney,” explains Nick Corney. “My wife Lisa and I took control of the business in 1995, after I had spent numerous years as the main installer for my father.

Our business is located in the Fenland market town of Whittlesey at 37 Market Street.

“As a family-run business, we can offer a more personal and professional service and in doing so we find that our customers are given a more pleasurable experience in what can seem to them rather a daunting prospect!

“In the current world of internet shopping, we feel that there are many customers who prefer to deal with an established local company – a good indication that the high street is still surviving.

“We have an extensive showroom in which we display an array of both fires and fireplaces. We are constantly updating our showroom, but we currently have on ‘live’ display three wood-burning stoves and four gas fires, together with various electric fires/stoves. We offer gas, electric and solid fuel options, including woodburning and multi-fuel stoves.”

They are stockists of Charnwood, Chesney’s, Dovre, Gazco, Heta UK, Jetmaster, Morso, Newmans, Stovax and many more…….

• Aspect Fires, 37 Market Street Whittlesey, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE7 1BA Tel: 01733 202220 www.aspectfires.co.uk

14

really care about their cows and are passionate about their milk and dairy.”

Meg is always on the hunt for new things like Simply Thierry’s Basil Pesto which is just gorgeous with a bowl of pasta. Handmade sandwiches are made exclusively for the shop by Kate’s Little Cakes and are popular with villagers working from home.

Kate’s Little Cakes bake a stunning collection of Boozy Brownies, Baileys Brownies and rum and raisin. Her Raspberry Pavlova cupcakes are a real winner and worth making a special trip out to the shop for.

But if it’s the ritual of a Sunday morning shop you are after then pop along to the No.10 Store for your Sunday paper and some great quality locally produced Grasmere Farm sausage and bacon, wonderful Priory Farm organic eggs and fresh bread. More recently, Meg has extended their gift range to include Yallop natural skincare which is made locally – the cupcake bath bombs make fantastic gifts!

• The No.10 Store, Little Bytham NG33 4PP, Tel: 01780 410005

Equilibrium Helen Walton writes: “Of the vast selection of beauty treatments available to us, the Thalgo eye massage has to be near the top of my list. To maintain a long term effect I would recommend booking 3 or 4 in the first couple of weeks and then settle down to one a month. The Thalgo eye treatment allowed me 30 minutes to totally relax and enjoy the experience.”

Thalgo, leaders in marine beauty, have introduced a UK first with this revolutionary anti-ageing Eye Massage Mask. Providing a new dimension in facial treatments, the Eye Massage Mask is highly effective at tackling a multitude of concerns including wrinkles, dark circles and puffiness in as little as 30 minutes.

Each treatment, available from Equilibrium’s new Eye Bar menu, uses products from their new Anti-ageing eye care range as well as combining a series of movements, tailored to the individual, resulting in a highly sensorial experience. The unique machine, which resembles a ski mask, incorporates a range of hands-free massage movements that target acupuncture points with air pressure using a mixture of Temporal Pressotherapy, Digito Pressure, Dynamic vibrations and Thermal diffusion providing noticeable results after just one treatment.

The new Thalgo Eye Bar menu is exclusively available at Equilibrium from just £35 for a 30 minute treatment.

• Telephone 01780 757570 or visit their website www.equilibriumstamford.co.uk or join them on facebook www.facebook.com/ equilibriumstamford.

STAMFORD LIVING january 2013

14 UPDATES.indd 1

19/12/12 11:33:31

Fireplace and Stove Specialist Multi-Fuel and Wood Burning Stoves Range Cookers and Flue Systems Fireplaces, Gas and Electric Fires Hand Crafted Stone Fireplaces Established family run business experienced in offering a complete package from survey through to design and installation with our fully qualified team.

Visit us at our diverse showroom where we have an extensive range of fires and fireplaces on display

We promise you the warmest of welcomes!

37 Market Street, Whittlesey, Peterborough, Cambs PE7 1BA Tel/Fax 01733 202220 Email: aspectfires@aol.com Opening Times: Mon – Fri 9am-1pm & 2pm-5pm, Sat 10am-2pm CLOSED Thursdays, Sundays & Bank Holidays As we are a family run business, we would kindly request that you phone our office and check that we are open before making a special journey to our showrooms - Thank you.

Please note that our Office and Showrooms will re-open at 9.00 am on 7th January 2013.

NB Our Showroom will be closed on Saturday 12th January 2013

www.aspectfires.co.uk Stockists of Charnwood, Chesney’s, Dovre, Heta, Jetmaster, Stovax, Stuv and many more...

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• SL JAN ADS.indd 15

19/12/12 12:01:46

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18/12/12 16:13:19

H EA LTH & FIT NE SS

Shape Up with Yoga Regretting all those mince pies? Why not try a short daily yoga routine to help shift some of the festive excesses? Deborah King, a local yoga instructor, takes you through a short routine that will help you to build up the abdominal and back muscles. Set 10 minutes aside each day and invest in a strong core...

1

1 Kneeling

Kneel with your big toes together, heels rolling out to the sides and your bottom resting in between the heels. Take 5 smooth breaths in and out through the nose. Sit up tall and imagine your spine growing taller with each breath in.

3

2

2 Side bends

Place one hand on the floor at your side, take a breath in and raise the opposite arm. On the exhale, bend over sideways so that your hand on the floor supports you. Stay for 3 smooth breaths, allowing the neck to relax on each exhale. Come up on the 4th inhale, lower the arm and repeat on the other side.

4

3 Seated twist

Breathe in and lift up the chest; as you breathe out twist around to look behind you. Place the hand at the front on the opposite knee and the hand at the back on the floor.

Stay in the twist for 3 breaths and then inhale and come back to face front. Repeat to the other side.

5

DO NOT ATTEMPT THIS SET OF EXERCISES IF YOU... ✘ Are pregnant ✘ Have had abdominal surgery in the past year ✘ Have a hiatus hernia ✘ Have problems with your back or neck BE KIND TO YOUR BODY NEVER USE FORCE OR STRAIN IN A POSTURE

• Deborah King holds weekly classes at Ryhall Village Hall and the Inspire2tri Studio in Manton.

She also runs beginners’ courses especially for those brand new to yoga. She has practised for 10 years following the Satyandanda (Bihar) tradition and is studying a 3 year Teaching Diploma with the British Wheel of Yoga. Her teaching style is gentle with the main focus on being kind to yourself. For more information please see her website www.doyoga.co.uk or email her at deb@ do-yoga.co.uk Photographs by Lizzie Haines – www.shootit.doitmomma.co.uk

7 Semi Supine 4 Half Boat Pose

Bring your legs straight in front of you. Breathe in and grow tall in the spine, bend the knees and place the feet flat on the floor. Lean back and raise the feet until your shins are parallel to the floor. Stretch the arms forward in line with the shins. Try not to round the back. Take 3 smooth breaths and lower the legs and arms. Build up to 2 lots of 5 breaths.

6

5 Leg stretch

Hold one leg behind the thigh and straighten the leg from the knee – don’t strain, just go as far as you can.

3 times to each side

6 Supine twist

7

Rest now for 10 breaths. Keep the knees bent, feet flat on the floor and have the arms a little away from the sides.

Palms upwards, fingers soft.

Relax. Breathe smoothly in and out through the nose. Repeat mentally, I am breathing in 1, I am breathing out 1. I am breathing in 2, I am breathing out 2 and so on.

Lie on the back of the body with the knees bent and arms out at shoulder height.

Breathe in, and on the exhale allow the knees to fall gently to the side.

Hold position for 3 breaths then inhale to the centre and repeat to the other side.

STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2013 17

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Upd ates

Tasting tips Blake Johnston has recently set up the Stamford Wine Company, situated just above the Stamford Cheese Cellar in St Mary’s St Welcome to my inaugural wine column! Each month I will be teaming up with local ‘foodies’ and matching a wine from my shop with one of their favourite recipes.

My food paring challenge this month is Venison Wellington, a very special recipe from Phil Kent, the brilliant young Chef at The

William Cecil Hotel Served beautifully pink and wrapped in a lovely golden brown puff pastry, served with seasonal vegetables and sautéed potatoes I knew I was in for a treat the minute I saw the plate! I am a huge venison fan anyway but the texture and flavour of this meat was superb.

My radar fairly quickly honed in on Italy for this challenge and the obvious choice was something produced from the Nebbiolo grape.

Now some of you might know where this is going price wise, and I have to admit that a good bottle of Barolo or Barbaresco does come with a price tag so I am going to steer in the other direction, after all it is January.

So we are heading across the border into France and I’m thinking the Rhone would be a good place. Moulin de la Gardette, Gigondas

2008. 80% Grenache, 10% Mourverdre, 10% Cinsault. This is a classic expression of this appellation and this wine is big, broad and juicy with good firm tannins. Fresh and perfumed on the nose would leave you to believe that this was lighter in style, but the palate reassuringly delivers the rich black fruits that you would expect from a southern Rhone red.

All in all a wonderfully indulgent winter warmer of a dish to see you through January and a thoroughly enjoyable experience I must say! So if you fancy giving it a go then hop foot it down to your LOCAL butcher, procure yourself a kilo of Venison and enjoy! On the other hand you could book yourself a table at The William Cecil and get Phil to do it all for you.

Should anyone wish to try the recipe then please send me an email to info@ thestamfordwinecompany.com and I will send it across.

• The Stamford Wine Company Ltd, 17 St Mary’s St, Stamford PE9 2DG Tel: 01780 489269 www.thestamfordwinecompany.com

Shaws Coaches

Newborough Dental and Skin Clinic Finding the right skin care products can be very confusing and expensive - the choice is massive and each product has its own “must have” appeal.

Bridget Steele met up with Dr Beverly Brabbins, who runs a dental and skin clinic in Newborough on the outskirts of Peterborough. Beverly offers very competitively priced Botox and Restylane treatments and also works with Skin Therapy company, Sesha to administer prescription skincare using pharmaceutical grade antioxidants, botanicals and vitamins that work below the skin’s surface.

Beverly explained “the products are not perfumed, or in fancy packaging, and are designed for optimum results working closely with a client’s skin type, and needs”. My consultation started with Beverly looking at my current skin care products and suggesting recommendations such as regular exfoliating and using an SPF 30 cream, even on a day indoors when the weather is dull. The consultation concludes with a detailed specification on products and a prescription for skin type.

• For more information on Sesha products or to have a consultation contact Dr Beverly Brabbins, Newborough Dental and Skin Clinic, 1 School Road, Newborough, Peterborough PE6 7RG Tel: 01733 810235. www.newboroughdentalsurgery.co.uk

18

Local coach operator, Shaws Coaches has launched their new programme of Door-2-Door holidays for 2013, along with the latest edition of their popular day tour brochure. Featured holiday destinations this year include a spectacular tour of Scotland’s magical Outer Hebrides and a Grand Irish Tour, which includes a visit to the new Titanic Experience in Belfast. Traditional seaside resorts like Bournemouth, Sidmouth and Eastbourne remain popular and special themed programmes include Shaw’s tailor-made ‘Battlefield’ tours and gorgeous gardens. Amongst the selected European destinations are Prague, Lake Garda, Austria and Copenhagen!

For spring, Shaws have some super value all-inclusive holidays, as well as some great weekends, including Easter in Paris, one of the most romantic cities in the world! Other popular choices include the Warner’s country house hotel, Holme Lacy, in the beautiful Wye Valley, and the magical Isles of Scilly.

Shaw’s new day tour programme features some super ideas for a day out, with trips to suit everyone. New destinations on offer include a cable car ride across the River Thames, a tour of the Lotus factory, the Hairy Bikers show and the Pompeii & Herculaneum exhibition at the British Museum, as well as perennial favourites like the Strictly Come Dancing live shows and Chelsea’s Annual Flower Show. The company also offer a great choice of London shows, including new productions like The Bodyguard, Kiss Me Kate and Viva Forever. With prices starting at just £49.50 pp, including coach travel direct to the theatre and a top price show ticket, these trips make ideal presents.

• For further details, free brochures or gift vouchers, contact Shaws on 01778 342224, call in at the office, 49 High Street, Maxey, Peterborough, email enquiries@shawscoaches.co.uk or visit the website www.shawscoaches.co.uk.

STAMFORD LIVING january 2013

18 UPDATES.indd 1

19/12/12 11:34:52

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• SL JAN ADS.indd 19

18/12/12 16:13:46

WRITER ’ S SPOT

Something Wonderful S After the success of the Ghost Writing Competition a couple of years ago, the Stamford Arts Centre ran another writing competition last autumn with the title ‘Something Wonderful’, which was themed around a series of events that took place in the Arts Centre at the end of October

O

nce again the standard and quality of entries was impressive, and the Arts Centre was delighted that Frances Brody (www. francesbrody.com), well-known author of the Kate Shackleton mysteries, kindly agreed to read through a shortlist of fifteen entries and pick the eventual winners.

The winners in each category were:

8-12 category First prize: Something Wonderful by Sophie Piggot Runner up: Something Wonderful by Erin Woods In Frances’ words: “Sophie has created an engaging character in a believable situation.

The story moves at a cracking pace, just like her gymnast, Isla. Erin paints good word pictures and gives an imaginative close up of a mouse with a dilemma. I like the characters’ names.”

12-16 category First prize: Berri Harrison, age 14 Runner up: Gemma Lavers, age 12

Adult category First prize: The Faint Sound of a Hardboiled Egg by Alan Kahn Runner up: RED by Yvette Diaz-Munoz Frances: “Alan’s story of transformation, brought about by an act of kindness, is meticulously written. Great title. Yvette’s poetic story of displacement, and finding new roots, creates a strong sense of place.”

“Every story in the adult category had something to recommend it. Jimmy Pea sensitively takes on the ambitious task of writing about a spiritual experience. Victoria Bullimore, from her arresting first sentence, evokes a very different mother and daughter.

Camilla Beech treads a line between normal and paranormal. Sophie Chapman’s precise details of mosaic-making turn a shared activity into a metaphor.”

All the winners’ stories can be read on the Stamford Living website at www.bestlocalliving. co.uk; and Rutland Radio will be broadcasting the winner in each category on Sunday evenings during February. The prize giving will take place at the Arts Centre Gallery at 6pm on Tue Jan 15th.

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Something Wonderful by Sophie Piggot, Winner of the 8-12 category Nerves are squirming at the bottom of my stomach like snakes in a pit. I can hear the crowd being hushed by the announcer. Soon, he will call my name out and it will be make or break then. Make or break...

It was the alarm clock that did it. The machine is useless. It has broken at least ten times in this year alone!

Well, one blustery Saturday morning, it finally stopped working. Completely! So when my mum yelled, “Breakfast is ready,” I wasn’t part of the crowd that stampeded downstairs. I have two brothers and one sister, all of whom have spiky ginger hair and freckles and all of whom seem to make as much noise as one hundred people. Each!

My mum called my name. She called again. Once the third cry came unanswered she stomped upstairs to find me snoring under my patchwork quilt. “Wake up, Isla!” she said exasperatedly.

“I am awake. “ “You had better be! Now, get dressed quickly or you’ll be late for your session!”

STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2013

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19/12/12 11:35:58

ul Short Story Competition velvet hair tie before leaving the room and I skidded to a halt outside the door and stepped in.

One of the three judges is still writing in his note book. He looks up. All eyes are on me. I think to myself “My first move, Isla, what’s my first move?” I remember. I crouch and spring…

Whoosh. I felt the air fly across my face as someone cartwheeled past me.

“Watch where you’re going, girl!” came an exasperated voice.

“I could say the same for you,” I called “Keep on the mats!”

The figure paused and surveyed me. An angry face speckled with freckles broke into a toothy smile. ”What’s taken you so long Isla?

You’ve been ages.”

“My alarm clock broke and-“ “Less chatting, more Gymnastics, please, girls. Isla, Ruby was doing her routine perfectly when you arrived. Where were you anyway?”

The frowning, beady-eyed woman from the hall was behind them.

“Sorry…” both of us spoke in unison. As soon as I was sure that she wasn’t looking, I rolled my eyes. “Come on Isla. No point in complaining,” chided Ruby “You really are lucky enough to be invited to do extra training for the competition. Ella was dying to join the squad.”

“I would gladly give up my place on the team if it meant having a lie in on Saturdays!”

Ruby sighed. “Are you nervous about the competition?” she asked from a handstand. I could see her upside down face looking at me.

“Well the worst part will probably be the waiting.” I was right.

The images raced through my mind like a runaway train. Stretch, full turn, cartwheel, tuck jump, forward roll, backward roll, splits. I started doing the routine. I tried to concentrate only on the present move. But if anything was out of place, even if I didn’t point my toes, I wanted to do the move again. The music in the background was getting stronger and louder and the moves were getting wilder and wilder. This was the part I got stuck on – I lost control…

I groaned. Training! I threw on a faded grubby tracksuit, dashed downstairs, grabbed a slightly burnt piece of toast and headed for the car which was rumbling on the drive impatiently. I opened the car door. “Kit bag?” barked an annoyed mother.

Soon after, with an apple and biscuit safely inside my kit bag, I raced back to the car and got in. My sister glared at me. We had five minutes to get to the hall.

I hear my name boomed on the loud speaker. I’m ready. As I open the door light spills into the bleak changing rooms. I step into the sunlight.

The battle has begun…

My mum was driving like a maniac. As we screeched round the last bend the hall came into sight. Mum pulled into the car park and jerked to a halt. I was thrown forward, paused, and stumbled out of the car to the huge plastic swing doors.

The doors swung open to reveal a cross looking woman in a black and blue tracksuit.

“Hurry up, Isla! The group have started already. Into the changing rooms, quick!”

I dashed into the changing rooms and slammed the door behind me.

I slipped on my purple leotard and tied up my hair with a matching

I don’t know how many training sessions I did to prepare for the competition but it was certainly a lot. Weeks and weeks had passed with the date of the dreaded competition looming ever closer. In the blink of an eye I was on the coach waiting to go. I thought of running out through the automatic doors but the coach was already rumbling down the tarmac and there was nothing I could do except sit back and try to relax.

When we arrived at the school even our gigantic hall was dwarfed by this huge professional gymnastics facility. Hundreds of coaches were parked in orderly lines, a couple with girls streaming out. Our group strode across to the oak doors, up the spiral stairs to a corridor, past the book shelves and into the bleak changing rooms. Into the present…

I have done it. All that is left is my final and most challenging sequence.

I run faster and faster. Handstand, bridge, cartwheel, round off, somersault. All of these moves combined would probably be quite spectacular to see. I almost wish I am in the audience as I do this. I smile inside as I stretch into my final posture. The music stops. There is silence. Then one person begins to clap and another and another and another, until it seems like the whole room, no, the whole world is clapping for me. I can see my mum beaming at me. I am so happy.

Imaginary fireworks explode in my head in deep crimson, ocean blue and velvet green. I’m glad I practised for this. It’s wonderful, something wonderful.

STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2013

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19/12/12 11:36:08

P E RS P E C T IVE S

FROM NORTH

LUFFENHAM TO MOSCOW

IN 18 MINUTES 

Richard Barry learns some local and international military history from the Cold War

O

N the 16th October 2012, English Heritage awarded a Grade II* listing to what remains of the Thor missile site at North Luffenham. How can it possibly be justified, some commentators have asked, to equate this militaryindustrial detritus with the beauty of Stamford’s II* buildings? It can’t – but when measured by the importance to national history rather than beauty, North Luffenham richly deserves its award.

Back story

Between 1958 and 1960 – at the height of the Cold War – the USA installed sixty Thor missiles in England, to strengthen our deterrence against the Soviet Union.

The Thor was a ballistic missile with a range of 1700 miles (the distance from Edith Weston to Moscow is 1570 miles, which explains why the missiles were located in the East Midlands rather than the West Midlands.) The missiles were based on twenty airfields lying in an arc from Driffield in Yorkshire to Feltwell in Norfolk. Each airfield had three missiles. North Luffenham lies at the centre of the arc; it controlled fifteen missiles – its own three plus three more at each of Folkingham, Melton Mowbray, Polebrook and Harrington.

Ownership and control were sensitive issues. The RAF provided the bases and launch crews and the USAF provided the missiles. At peak readiness North Luffenham had 965 RAF personnel and the USAF had 42. To launch a missile required two keys – one held by an officer of each nation. The keyholes were separated by a few metres so one deranged individual – even with very long arms – couldn’t grab both keys and start another world war.

Test-firing of Thors was impracticable from an island as small as Britain. RAF crews had to be flown to Vandenburg airbase in California for launch training. At that time the proposed merger of Rutland with Leicestershire was a hot topic, and one of the North Luffenham crews launched its missile out over the Pacific with a banner proclaiming “Hands off Rutland”.

Then came the Cuban Missile Crisis. The Soviet/USA confrontation during the last two weeks of October 1962 is widely seen as having been the most dangerous time in human history.

22

Meanwhile, back at North Luffenham At the height of the Crisis, 59 of the 60 Thors in the East Midlands were poised for launching.

It’s not certain if this picture, above, was taken at the height of the Crisis. Two of the Thors are vertical, appearing to be fuelled and ready to go. The Thor in the foreground is not ready – it seems to be having some work done on its “physics package” – the marvellously techy euphemism for its H-bomb.

One might assume that during the Cuban Missile Crisis life at North Luffenham would have been pretty hectic. But perhaps not. The monthly base reports for 1960-65 were kept secret for 30 years. Now they can be read in the National Archive at Kew. (Ref: Air 28\1628) and paint a picture of a tranquil life of training routines. Missiles were often raised to launch position, targets were reselected, fuel and oxidant pumped and discharged, warheads shuttled by van between Folkingham, Melton Mowbray and so forth. September 1962 seems to have been a bit more active than October, but neither monthly report looks exceptional.

Indeed, the only exceptional thing noted was Group Captain Sowery (the base commander) hosting a reception for the Cottesmore Hunt at the Officer’s Mess.

Whether the Americans on the base were amused or appalled by the RAF’s insouciance is not recorded.

Swords into Ploughshares

The Thors vanished almost overnight. The North Luffenham ones were the last to go – sent back to the USA in August 1963, less than a year after the Cuban Missile Crisis. The timing was probably not a coincidence. It’s widely known that the USA withdrew its missiles from Italy and Turkey as part of a tacit bargain with the Soviets to withdraw theirs from Cuba.

East Midlands Thors probably went for the same reason. In recognition, perhaps North Luffenham or Edith Weston should be twinned with Havana.

After they had been air-freighted back to California the sixty Thors were far from wasted; they ended their days as highly respected launchers for military and commercial satellites.

STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2013

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North Luffenham Today

Since being listed by English Heritage it has become possible to visit the site. This has to be arranged through St George’s Barracks (01780 720041).

It’s a strange experience – hard to believe that from this desolate pad we and America faced-down the Soviet Union during those two desperate weeks.

The Three Launch Pads

The two right hand pads are cluttered with junk. The left hand pad features in the following pictures

Main blast walls

The Thor missile lay between these walls, pointing east (towards the photographer) and covered by a low hanger until ready for launch. When launching was imminent, the hanger was withdrawn to the west on rails.

Launch Pad

To Russia with Love

Preparing for launch, the Thor was raised into a vertical position and aligned over the stud bolts. The fuel (kerosene) was pumped into the missile through the pipe flange that can be seen on the left edge of the picture.

The oxidant (liquid oxygen) was pumped through the stainless steel pipe flange just visible in the upper-right patch of grass.

The entire launching process – from the withdrawing of the hanger to the turning of the two launch keys – took 15 minutes. Flight time to Soviet landfall was 18 minutes.

The construction crew’s mordant humour.

To add to the joke’s punch line, each Thor had a 1.4 megaton warhead (equivalent to 70 Hiroshima bombs).

If any reader has diaries or letters covering these events, the Editor would very much like to read them.

STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2013

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19/12/12 12:04:32

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Kitchen Industry National Award for Customer Service, 2011 I can supply your dream kitchen from drawing board through to installation by a team of highly qualified and experienced craftsmen.Great brands at good prices from a business with 30 years experience. Let our team fulfil your dream. ring or visit mark for his personal attention.

THE ONLY VACUUM CLEANER SPECIALISTS IN THE AREA

We wonʼt be beaten on price!

TEL: 01780 482935 www.vaccentre.co.uk

mark Fordham kitchens The Showroom, New Road, Ryhall, Stamford PE9 4HL

01780 482892

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

HURRY

WINTER SALE

Vi-Spring clearance

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on many models 4’ 6’’ Elite Divan Set

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4’ 6’’ Storage Otterman Bed

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Stamford: West Street, Stamford PE9 2PS Tel: 01780 762908 Bourne: 17B Abbey Road,Bourne PE10 9EF Tel: 01778 394774 Spalding: Westlode Street, Spalding PE11 2AE Tel: 01775 711014

www.fitzgeraldsbeds.co.uk

Vi-Spring | Myers | Silentnight | Staples & many more…

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L OCA L WALK

FOTHERINGHAY & WOODNEWTON We’ve given you a simple but delightful walk for the New Year, ending with a very fine pub POINTS OF INTEREST

WALK DATA: Distance Typical time OS map

4 miles 1.5 hours Explorer 223 &224 or Landranger 141 (always walk with a map) Fotheringhay Flat, easy going Three or so Yes 4 miles N of Oundle

Start & finish Terrain Stiles Dog friendly How to get there Refreshments • Falcon Pub in Fotheringhay. Tel: 01832 226254. Excellent pub and restaurant food, charming garden overlooking the church. The food has been lauded by Michael Winner no less.

• White Swan, Woodnewton Tel: 01780 470944 bags of character, and under independent ownership

Fotheringhay is an incredibly historic village: • Listed in the Domesday Book in 1086 as ‘Fodringeia’ • The manor came into the possession of Edward III who gave it to his son Edmund Langley, the first Duke of York • Richard III was born at the castle in 1452 (if it is his remains that have recently been found in Leicester, should they be buried here?)

• Mary Stuart was brought here in September 1586 after 18 years in captivity. Her trial took place in the Great Hall of the castle on 14th and 15th of October, and she was beheaded on 8th February 1587 • The castle fell into disrepair after Mary’s death. The stones have been used to build many cottages and walls around the village. The mount is a fabulous vantage point of the Nene Valley.

DIRECTIONS

1.

2.

3.

6 7

Woodnewton 5

4 3

Fotheringhay 2 1

Park on the road just outside the Falcon in Fotheringhay. Proceed out of the village in a westerly direction. Just before the end of the village, turn right up a small road, that then swings round to the left.

About a quarter of a mile up this road, take the footpath heading off to the left, across a track and through a delightful hole in the hedge opposite.

On reaching a footbridge across a brook, turn left along a gravelled track instead of crossing the bridge (the path has been slightly diverted here; it is a very acceptable diversion). This track soon swings round to the right, running alongside the field.

About 400 yards along the track, walking in a westerly direction, take a right path along the edge of a copse; this path then makes its way towards Woodnewton; when you cross a footbridge over Willow Brook, keep to the left of the field, and you will soon come to a tarmacced road leading into the village.

Turn right, and then right again towards Nassington. At the end of the village there is footpath sign bearing right, and from here you get a fabulous view of your final destination – Fotheringhay Church – making navigation rather easy.

Follow this path almost due east now, across a footbridge, then straight ahead. Eventually you come to a gate that leads to a wooded area. Follow the path through this wood until it reaches the main bridleway, The Nene Way. Turn right (south) now for a few hundred yards, and turn left just before Willow Brook, following it along until reaching another footbridge. Cross over this and head back into the village, where you rejoin the road and reach the end of the walk.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Fotheringhay Church

The footbridge at 7

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MOT OR ING

2013 New Models

Once again motor manufacturers are doing their best to entice consumers into showrooms with the promise of an array of new models being presented to potential buyers in 2013.

Ashley Martin takes a look at what’s on offer

I

f 2012 was the year when new electric and hybrid cars stole the headlines, then the first three months of 2013 is when the heartland of the UK car market is replenished in a seriously big way.

The trend towards superminis It used to be that upper medium sector models dominated UK car sales, but in more recent years the crown has passed to the lower medium sector, and now superminis are to the fore with the Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Corsa the two best-selling models. Those two superminis are followed in the sales charts by three upper medium sector models, the Ford Focus, the Volkswagen Golf and Vauxhall Astra Why? The answer can be summed up the single word, downsizing. Motor manufacturers have used technology and engineering skills to obtain more power and performance from smaller, more fuel-efficient and lower carbon dioxide emitting engines, while simultaneously making cars bigger.

Ever wondered why it’s harder work than ever to park your car in a designated parking space? The size of a parking space remains unchanged from yesteryear, but today’s superminis are typically the size of yesterday’s lower medium models and today’s lower medium models are the size of yesterday’s upper medium sector cars.

The new models But, back to what’s new in 2013. First up is a facelift for Britain’s biggest selling car, the Fiesta. Priced from £9,795 to £17,545 on-theroad among the highlights are a 1.0 litre 100 PS petrol engine emitting 99 g/km and a 1.6 95 PS diesel engine with emissions of 87 g/km and a class-leading 85.6 mpg.

Notably, the new Fiesta is the first model in the UK to feature MyKey technology, which

26

enables parents to place restrictions on typically younger drivers to promote safer driving.

Ford’s exclusive MyKey enables owners to programme a key that restricts the top speed of the Fiesta, reduces the maximum volume of the audio system, and disables the audio system altogether if driver and passengers are not using safety belts. It can also prevent the driver from de-activating safety technologies such as Electronic Stability Control and Active City Stop, which can help mitigate or prevent low-speed collisions.

Contrasting sharply with the long-established Fiesta is the Dacia Sandero which, with an entry-level model costing £5,995 on-the-road is billed as ‘the most affordable new car to buy in the UK’.

Dacia is maybe a new brand in the UK, but it emanates out of the Renault stable and the Sandero - 900cc and 1.2 litre petrol engine models are available alongside a 1.5 diesel complements the Duster sports utility vehicle launched earlier last year.

Also look out for Vauxhall’s new supermini, the Adam which, being smaller than the Corsa and more fashionable, is firmly targeted at car style icons such as the Fiat 500 and the Mini.

Entering, says Vauxhall’s blurb, the ‘growing fashion-led A-sector’, on-the-road prices range from £11,255-£14,000 with three trim levels available JAM (fashionable/colourful) GLAM

(elegant/sophisticated) and SLAM (racy/sporty).

Initially available with a choice of 1.2 and two 1.4 litre (87 PS and 100 PS) engines, the Adam is all about individuality with Vauxhall claiming owners have the ability to personalise through colour and specification in more ways than any other car in mainstream production.

If the Adam is most definitely the new kid on the block, then the Volkswagen Golf is like a favourite aunt arriving to join the seasonal festivities.

The seventh-generation Golf officially goes on UK sale on January 7 with prices starting below those of the previous model, at £16,285 on-the-road and rising to £24,880.

Also look out for the all-new MercedesBenz A-Class. The German premium marque’s smallest car returns to the UK looking far more mainstream than when it debuted about 15 years ago.

The new A-Class - with emissions from 98 g/km - is being seen as a ‘true competitor’ to the likes of the Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series with on-the-road prices starting from £18,945 (A180 BlueEFFICENCY).

Move up a sector and look out for the all-new Mazda 6, which goes on sale towards the end of January and becomes the second model from the manufacturer (following CX-5) to feature emissions-busting, fuel-sipping SKYACTIV Technology. On-the-road prices start at £19,595 (2.0 SKYACTIV-G petrol 145 PS saloon SE), while the 2.2 SKYACTIV-D 150 PS diesel engine in the saloon sets a new record low CO2 emissions figure of 108 g/km for the segment.

Also look out for a new version of the UKbuilt Toyota Auris from £14,495 on-the-road), while five-door versions of the Audi A3 (from £19,825) are due in March 2013; and spring also sees the much-heralded return to open top motoring of Vauxhall with the Cascada.

STAMFORD LIVING january 2013

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ANAND SHOES

of Stamford

• Stockist of high quality leather footwear from:

Up to 50% off in our January sale!

• High class shoe repair and restoration service • Official retailer for

Bears

• Shoe care products • Key cutting & Engraving service

Up to 20% off bags Up to 20% off branded jewellery

Up to 50% off costume jewellery

www.adorn-accessories.co.uk

28 High Street, Stamford, PE9 2BB - T: 01780 767688 E: anandshoesofstamford@gmail.com

www.facebook.com/AdornAccessoriesStamford 29 High Street, Stamford, PE9 2BB. 01780 754359

Specialising in: • Conservatories • Windows • Kitchens • Bi Folding Doors • Orangeries • Lantern Roofs Opening Times: Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm Saturday 10am – 3pm

T: 01780 481850 - F: 01780 481132 e: orchardkitchens@live.co.uk www.orchardwindows.co.uk

Kitchen Showroom 22-23 Scotgate, Stamford, PE9 2YQ

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DES IGN INT E R IOR S

What’s New in Kitchen Cool

Charlotte Newby asked the kitchen experts from Stamford and surrounds about their favourite new innovations in kitchen technology

Neil and Darren at NGI Design 4, 5 & 6 High Street, St Martin’s, Stamford PE9 2LF, 01780 766899, www.ngidesign.co.uk As ever more sophisticated products greet the market, Nigel has seen an increasing demand for integrated steam ovens and in particular steam combination ovens.

They’re a great addition to a kitchen, providing an extremely healthy and exciting way of cooking. They feature automatic programmes so that you could cook a chicken, let’s say, largely by steam so that it’s juicy and succulent, but then finish it off with hot air or the grill so that the skin is crispy and brown. For perfect baking, there’s a steam phase followed by a hot air phase; this would be excellent for baking soft bread. There are even functions that determine the quantity, shape and consistency of the food to be cooked so the cooking time and climate in the cooking space are automatically adjusted to match the individual food. One of the brands supplied by NGI is V-Zug, a Swiss company that specialises in steam ovens. These ovens are sleek and stylish and come with an impressive ‘A’ in their energy rating.

Nigel says induction woks are also becoming popular as they offer perfect heat distribution around the sides of their madeto-measure wok. Companies like Miele are now offering hob combination sets where you can mix and match the elements you want from a range of individual pieces. The induction wok is just one of these, but the options are limitless as you can combine electric with gas, barbeque hobs, cooking plates, electric fryers and many more for a completely customized cooking area.

V-Zug steam oven brings professional quality cooking into the home.

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Maxine at Orchard Kitchens 22-23 Scotgate, Stamford PE9 2YQ Tel: 01780 481850 www.orchardstamford.co.uk One recent innovation which is proving popular is the Neff single oven, soft-close ‘slide and hide’ door, available on various models – pull the oven door down and slide it right under the oven, out of sight and out of the way.

Also with Neff, the FlexInduction hob, their most recent innovation – offering ultimate flexibility by using an enlarged cooking zone that can heat pans of any size, positioned anywhere within it and providing consistent heat across the whole surface.

Each zone only heats where the pan is detected, meaning maximum energy efficiency.

The Orchard Kitchens showroom on Scotgate has 13 kitchens on display, Expert design and ranging from solid oak installation service, to painted, gloss to foil Orchard Kitchens finishes and appliances by all manufacturers.

Claire at Storm Bathrooms, Kitchens & Heating Cherry Holt Road, Bourne, PE10 9LA, 01778 395324, www.stormbathrooms-showroom.co.uk Storm is excited to announce the opening of its new kitchen showroom on Cherry Holt Road in Bourne. There are seven inspiring kitchens on display to include both traditional styles and more adventurous modern designs. The kitchens are manufactured by Symphony who has won awards for innovation, reducing waste, quality recognition plus certification from the Forest Stewardship Council.

Within the Storm showroom you can also see a range of ATAG appliances that are designed for people with a passion for cooking. The selection of induction hobs offer ultimate flexibility in terms of space and cooking style, starting at a space-saving 330mm and stretching to a generous 1110mm. You can choose to incorporate a gas ring or induction wok, or go for the bridge induction where front and rear sections can be combined into one very large, supremely flexible cooking area.

Cutting edge design and functionality from ATAG at Storm Kitchens

STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2013

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Malcolm at QKS Kitchens

Innovative and affordable kitchen solutions at Fordham

Mark at Fordham Kitchens Ltd The Showroom, New Road, Ryhall, Stamford PE9 4HL, 01780 482892, www.fordhamkitchensltd.co.uk News from Fordham Kitchens is that they have a stunning new display of kitchens at their showroom in Ryhall. You’ll find a dozen displays with a wide choice of finishes for each one, a vast selection of worktops and a range of LED pelmet lighting options.

Fordham Kitchens supply a range of fabulous kitchens by Crown Imperial, who have been in the business of building furniture since the fifties. There are endless choices, offering high-end kitchen designs at very affordable prices. They also supply and fit kitchens

by Schüller - super sleek modern kitchens, and Dynamic Space brilliant storage solutions, better ergonomics, optimal work flows and access. It’s a showroom that’s well worth a visit.

Sara at Hunters Interiors The Dairy, Copthill Farm Enterprises, Deeping Road, Uffington, Stamford PE9 4TD, 01780 757946, www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk Every now and then a ‘vital’ new piece of kitchen equipment comes along that changes the face of cooking. It’s a simple, ultrasafe idea that renders kettles out of use. The Quooker is a boiling water tap that provides instant 100 degrees c water for making tea, blanching vegetables, poaching fish, heating up plates, removing candle wax and much more. The taps come in a variety of shapes and finishes to suit your kitchen style and the compact boiler lives discreetly under the worktop. It’s made with energy efficiency in mind and standby consumption is only 10W or 3 pence a day. Sara has seen increasing demand for the Quooker and believes it’s a good investment for your kitchen.

Instant hot water from Quooker, available through Hunters Interiors

The Maltings, Barnack Road, Stamford PE9 2NA, 01780 756514, www.qksstamford.co.uk Malcolm at QKS has a practical solution for the endless rubbish and recycling that accumulates in our kitchens: the Krüsher. It’s a recycling and waste compactor that compacts your rubbish to save space and reduce your visits to the dustbin. There are three levels of functionality: the first is a can crush chamber that drops the crushed tins into a storage bin, the second is a main compaction area, the third has two noncompaction storage bins for other waste. All your plastic, milk cartons, cans and card can be compacted by 75%, giving you four times more storage space. There are different sizes to suit your space, they are offered fully integrated or with a stainless steel front, and they can be fitted when you build your kitchen or retro-fitted later.

Malcolm is on a mission to encourage us to ‘Buy British’, and in the QKS showroom you’ll find British-made kitchens in traditional and contemporary styles by Sheraton, Chippendale and C R Mackintosh.

Save on waste space with the Krüsher from QKS

Mark Goodacre at Mark Goodacre Ltd Osgodby Farm, Osgodby, Grantham, Lincs NG33 4JH, 01476 586159, www.markgoodacre.com If you want a multi-function tap, Mark suggests the Quatreau Tap System. He admits they’re not cheap, but they are ultra stylish and use groundbreaking technology. First launched in 2009, this was the first tap to dispense both tap water and pure water with thermostatically controlled boiling, chilled and sparkling (yes, sparkling!) options. It has touch screen controls, multi-media carbon and scale inhibitor filters and its ‘Hydrocell’ system is housed under the sink.

The manufacturers of Quatreau claim that their patented ‘RODI’ (reverseosmosis, de-ionisation) system delivers the purest water available – guaranteed purer than all bottled water brands! You can choose one of these taps when you fit your kitchen, but they can also be fitted in the place of an existing mono-block tap.

Meri and Allan at Bakehouse Kitchen Studio 31 Broad Street, Stamford PE9 1PJ, 01780 767928, www.bakehousekitchens.co.uk A recent innovation for the busy kitchen is the new TimeLight on certain models of Neff dishwashers. Using white light, both the time remaining and the stage reached on a programme are clearly beamed onto the kitchen floor – avoiding the awkwardness of guessing or the need to open the door during the wash cycle. The machine boasts such a quiet running noise that the function is that much more essential. The light signal is visible on many types of flooring including white ceramic tiles!

The Bakehouse founders come from an engineering drawing background so they really understand how to create innovative solutions to suit your needs.

They can offer all the services required to build you a super stylish kitchen including heating and boilers, electrical work, tiling and building work. Their showroom is in the centre of town.

Stuart at VelaCici Harlaxton Business Park, Main Road, Harlaxton, Grantham, Lincs NG32 1HQ, 01476 579950, www.velacici.com VelaCici has seen a growing demand for island worktops with built-in facilities, so vertical power docks with triple sockets and USB ports are becoming more popular. The power dock retracts into the unit below to give a flush, discreet surface when not in use. They’ve also developed clever housings for iPads within wall cupboards.

Because VelaCici build bespoke kitchens, they can design layouts and solutions to suit the individual needs of each household and the technology needed to make the kitchen a multifunctional room for every member of the family.

Stuart says there are some very exciting developments in LED lighting, with a vast selection of different ideas: sensors, dimmable lights and colours, all of which can create a unique ambience for your room.

Designs for the modern home, VelaCici STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2013

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BUSINE SS

Professional Services With the Christmas season over and the decorations packed away, it’s time to get round to some practical decisions - getting an accountant to sort out your finances, a solicitor to sort out a legal problem that’s been bothering you for ages or a financial advisor to help you plan for the future.

Stamford Living’s guide will help our readers select the professional service provider that is right for them -- most people don’t know where to start looking, we can help get them going

ACCOUNTANTS Brayshaw Morey Fraser Ross House, 24 Broad Street, Stamford, PE9 1PJ Tel: 01780 750840 www.brayshaw-morey.co.uk Brayshaw Morey has been in business for 25 years and the Stamford office was established nearly 6 years ago. Ross Clephane, partner, describes the business: “We are a friendly, conscientious company with all round knowledge of UK taxation, tax planning and compliance including management accounts and personal tax. We cater for Limited Companies, Partnerships and Sole Traders and offer invaluable business start-up advice for all types of businesses including company formations. Our services also include book-keeping, payroll and VAT returns.”

“We are very keen to provide the best service possible for our clients and keep abreast of the latest technology. We are up to date on all new legislation including the RTI for Payroll, which is imminent, as well as the recent statutory changes to pensions.

“We firmly believe in helping you to understand your accounts and helping you to build your business – we pride ourselves on establishing a good professional business relationship with our clients. We are accountable to you!”

Cracknell & Co Warden’s House, 4 Broad Street, Stamford, PE9 1PB Tel: 01780 483807 www.cracknellandco.co.uk Lucinda Cracknell has a background at one of the ‘Big 4’ accounting firms in London, and also in a commercial financial role in a large multinational, so she brings substantial and practical experience to bear.

She set up Cracknell and Co a decade ago, and her aim has always been to ‘help my clients go somewhere business-wise’. She takes a close interest in the business side of things as well as being leading edge in terms of accounting practice. She typically serves businesses in the £1 million to £6 million turnover range, and individuals too.

The practice is a diverse one. It offers a range of services including a full outsourced finance department, management accounts for SMEs, business planning and commercial advice for both start-ups and established companies,

through to corporate and individual tax advice and HRMC company and VAT returns to annual accounts formation.

Duncan and Toplis 14 All Saints’ Street, Stamford PE9 2PA Tel: 01780 750888 www.duntop.co.uk Duncan & Toplis was established in 1925 and is one of the largest independent firms of chartered accountants in the region. They have an unrivalled knowledge of local business issues and wide experience across many commercial fields. They are also very efficient if you only need to use them for tax returns. The Stamford partners are Tom Hindmarch and Richard Hardy, who know the local community and its businesses very well. One satisfied personal client said of their tax returns team: “They nag me ever so charmingly to get my tax returns in on time – it really works!”

Michelle Feasey & Co Chartered Accountants and Chartered Tax Advisors Unit 1, West Street Business Park, Stamford, PE9 2PL Tel: 01780 751115 Michelle Feasey & Co specialises in small businesses based in the area, including Local Living Magazines. Michelle Feasey commented: “We aim to provide a very customer-focused value-for money package; smaller companies can lose out by paying for things that aren’t necessary.” And she has a sound business head which means that she can give advice, if asked for, on a range of business decisions.

RB Crosbie Accountants 63 High St, St Martin’s, Stamford, PE9 2LA Tel: 01780 751700 www.rbcrosbie.co.uk

Dick Crosbie has over 20 years experience in accountancy and taxation with involvement in all aspects of personal and corporate clients. He has been operating as a sole practitioner for the last 12 years offering a flexible and cost-effective service to clients ranging from personal tax returns through to limited companies with turnover in excess of £1,000,000.

A particular feature of this firm is the opportunity to have your affairs managed with no requirement to take time out of your busy schedule - they will visit your office or home at your convenience (including early evening appointments) In addition to the above Dick is also lecturer at Grantham College, specialising in taxation and advanced taxation for students of the Chartered Association of Certified Accountants, the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants and the Association of Accounting Technicians.

His feelings about how to operate in the current economy are clear: “Talk to advisers sooner rather than later. There are ways to spread the load with the big one-off payments such as VAT and Corporation Tax; the tax authorities can be amenable to phased payments.” He sees growth in his own business because of the value he gives and the personal service he provides.

Stephenson Smart & Co Stephenson House, 15 Church Walk, Peterborough, PE1 2TP Tel: 01733 343275 www.stephensonsmart.com Stephenson Smart was established over 100 years ago. They continue to build on their reputation for providing excellent advice and first class service to business and personal clients alike.

As well as general accountancy, audit and tax skills, their partners also have individual specialist skills which enable the firm to provide clients with a first class service as and when required.

In addition to traditional auditing, accounting and tax services they also provide advice on how to improve and develop your business.

Whether you need an integrated business strategy, access to corporate finance or specialist tax advice, they are ready to help you achieve your goals STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2013

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BUSINE SS

SOLICITORS Buckles Solicitors LLP Peterborough office: Grant House, 101 Bourges Boulevard, Peterborough PE1 1NG Tel: 01733 888888 Stamford office: 3 St Mary’s Hill, Stamford, PE9 2DW Tel: 01780 484570 www.buckles-law.co.uk Buckles Solicitors LLP provides a comprehensive range of legal solutions to individuals and businesses across the Midlands, East Anglia and the UK and internationally.

They pride themselves on being approachable, friendly and easy to work with whether you are facing business or personal issues.

Burnett Mediation Tel: 01572 789988 or 07831 764002 www.burnettmediation.co.uk Do you have a conflict, problem or dispute that needs attention right now? Have you thought about seeking mediation help? Mediation is cheaper and quicker than going to court and Burnett Mediation can help with many disputes, including those between couples, between neighbours and also in the community.

Parties in dispute often refuse to compromise and this often leads to court proceedings and hefty legal bills. Mediation is an innovative way to solve these disputes without having to resort to unnecessary measures. Veronica Burnett said: “With my background in law I understand how the legal system works and how much people spend on divorces and other disputes when it comes to taking them to court. I help people communicate directly and openly. I remain impartial and open up the channels of communication between people, offering them

a safe and neutral environment to sort through their problems. Court processes can drag on and solicitors’ fees will pile up – with mediation, the problems are solved much more quickly thus resulting in less expense.”

Veronica also offers couples counselling, to help couples encountering problems in their relationship an opportunity to conquer them if they wish. “We can also help couples gain insight into healthy relationships and thereby improve on their own.”

Hegarty LLP Solicitors 10 Ironmonger Street, Stamford PE9 1PL Tel: 01780 752066 www.hegarty.co.uk Hegarty’s reputation is built on nearly four decades of providing private clients and businesses with legal services in plain English against a backdrop of personal attention.

Hegarty Solicitors started life in a small office in 1974; since then the business has grown organically as satisfied clients have returned and recommended Hegarty’s legal services.

As demand has increased they have added to the hand picked team of staff, ensuring their knowledge, experience and client care meet the exacting standards expected by clients. Their teams of solicitors and lawyers – still headed by founder Richard Hegarty - can help and advise on everything from company law to insolvency, employment law to conveyancing, personal injury to family matters.

Belinda Smith Solicitors Asset House, 27/28 Thorpe Wood, Peterborough PE3 6SR Tel: 01733 267414 www.bscosolicitors.co.uk Belinda Smith Solicitors specialises in all

aspects of Family Law, and has an engaging, professional and approachable style. Belinda is a fully trained collaborative lawyer and will promote this preferred approach to relationship breakdown wherever possible. She is also a specialist in Pre-Nuptial Agreements.

FINANCIAL ADVISERS Landmark IFA Ltd, Magnus House, 60 St Leonard’s St, Stamford, PE9 2HU Tel: 01780 761313, www.landmarkifa.co.uk Landmark IFA, an independent financial adviser with offices in Stamford and Oundle, with a professional but informal style that gives one confidence as soon as one meets them. Well known in the area, they are looking to grow their business to have 20 qualified advising consultants by the end of 2013. I met with John Kellas-Kelly and Kevin Mullins, who explained their main areas of business activity: Wealth Management and Preservation is the main thrust of Landmark’s business and expertise. Kevin commented, “We recognise that everyone’s situation is personal and unique. We truly enjoy the interaction with clients, learning their various financial needs and goals and then formulating plans to help achieve them.”

Pre and at retirement planning: “We are experiencing a real increase in the number of people seeking good advice as they approach later life,” John told me. “Often there are very important choices to be made and we help our clients arrive at the approach that is most likely to meet their current and future needs. The pension arena seems to be forever in a state of change making it an area where sound financial advice can be invaluable.”

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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Oundle Travel

Find your perfect holiday with your local, independent and friendly travel experts. Privately owned and managed for 18 years by Director Paula Cockcroft, Paula and her team are able to offer a wealth of knowledge, experience and truly independent and unbiased advice when booking your next holiday.

BEST CITY BREAK

Marrakech – Perfect for a short break at any time of the year, Morocco’s rich heritage and scenic treasures always impress. Direct flights from London with private transfers to your chosen hotel make the journey quick and easy.

Marrakech with its pink terracotta walls the colourful city cannot fail to leave a striking impression on visitors. A wide choice of accommodation is available from the 5* La Mamounia – reopened after a three year restoration, this hotel is the oldest and most famous in Marrakech, to the smaller and rather unique Riads, often very centrally located and family owned.

Top Tip – Book a private walking tour, the best way of seeing this amazing city – from £25.00 per person

FAVOURITE ADVENTURE DESTINATION

Bhutan – Protected by the mighty Himalaya, the isolated kingdom of Bhutan is an unforgettable place to visit. The landscape is stunning with steep forested hills, misty mountains rising from fast flowing rivers and superb Dxongs (fortresses) that dot the valleys and hilltops. However, it is the fascinating culture that makes this country unique and a small guided

tour is the best way to meet the relaxed local people and be totally immersed in the magical history and culture.

Top Tip – This trip will raise your heartbeat and a good level of fitness is required.

BEST FUN BREAK

Las Vegas – It just has to be !! Dazzling casinos and top international shows, flamboyant, extravagant and simply unmissable , a shimmering mirage in the middle of the Nevada desert.

Las Vegas is a monumental amusement centre crammed with casinos, swish shopping malls and innumerable restaurants. Stay at The Wynn Las Vegas – A luxurious fifty storey resort on the strip complete with a Ferrari dealership !

Top Tip – Escape the city in a customised helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon, an absolute must !

TOP NATURE DESTINATION

Costa Rica – Located between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, the small country of Costa Rica is one of the most biologically diverse places on earth.

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three sumptuous palaces built for the members of the Imperial Family and stay at the stunning Astoria lovingly restored by Rocco Forte which has been the centre of the City’s history since it opened in 1912.

Top Tip – Why not combine St Petersburg with Moscow ? The new ‘Sapson’ high speed train takes only four hours between the two cities, making a twin centre holiday a viable option.

FAVOURITE FLY DRIVE DESTINATION

New England – Visit early autumn, commence your journey in Boston, head north for Salem before heading along the coast towards Portland, Maines largest city, head inland towards the breathtakingly beauty of The White Mountains a landscape dotted with historic villages, continue through the Green Mountains and then journey south towards the Massachusetts coast to Cape Cod with long beaches, picturesque villages and delicious seafood.

Top Tip – Stay at The Chatham Bars Inn, Cape Cod – The ultimate New England retreat – 7 night Fly Drive Price from £1295.00 per person.

BEST TRAIN JOURNEY

The Orient Express – Without a doubt this is the opportunity of a lifetime and the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion in style. Travel in sumptuous surroundings on this legendary train departing from London Victoria. On arrival at Calais the immaculate Wagon Lits carriages of the Continental train await and you will be shown to your private cabin.

Top Tip - Combine this journey with three nights in Venice for the ultimate experience, The Cipriani for absolute 5* luxury, located on Giudecca Island and only five minutes from St Mark’s Square by private launch. All Oundle Travel clients receive timed complimentary entrance tickets to The Doges Palace.

Price on application.

FAVOURITE FAMILY DESTINATION

Visit the major national parks and explore the astonishing variety of wildlife and contrasting habitats, including rainforest, cloud forest, volcanoes, lakes and canals.

Top Tip – Visit in the British winter months through until April, the weather is dry and warm.

TOP CULTURE BREAK

St Petersburg – Peter the Great built his Baltic City to drag Russia into the modern age. It is a city of stunning vistas and grand buildings, the breath-taking Hermitage and the Old Winter Palace is one of the world’s great art museums and is one of the many examples of the wealth and opulence of the Romanov Empire. Visit the

Mauritius – La Plantation d’Albion Club Med Resort – New for 2013 this is a unique family experience of a private villa with the luxury of All Inclusive. Sports academies with classes for all levels together with a Teen Spa, optional extras include babysitting and ‘Pyjama Club’ and local cookery classes, perfect for the family holiday.

Top Tip – British Airways offer a direct flight from London, which makes the journey effortless with children, but be warned…. this route is very popular, book early to avoid disappointment !

BEST CHILL OUT DESTINATION

The Maldives – It just has to be…White sands and whispering coconut palms, top end resorts promise blissful relaxation beside cobalt seas. If you are seeking luxury and blissful relaxation the world’s leading hotel brands oblige magnificently; from fabulous glass floored overwater bungalows to butler serviced beach villas. The food and spas are world class, the diving spectacular, it really is as close to paradise as you will get. Cruise the atolls in a traditonal wooden dhoni or escape to an island in the middle of the ocean for a romantic chill out dinner…. The Maldivian islands really are ‘No News, No Shoes’ Top Tip – Snorkel with the turtles accompanied by a marine biologist or assist with marine conservation by participating in coral propagation and planation projects.

• Oundle Travel Limited, Oundle, Peterborough, Cambs, PE8 4EA, Tel: 01832 273600. Please visit us at www.oundletravel.co.uk

OUNDLE TRAVEL OFFERS YOU COMPLETE PEACE OF MIND 35

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Upd ates

Spotlight on The Maldives Now Christmas is over and winter has set in, it’s time to plan your next holiday - where could be better than the paradise of The Maldives?

Scattered across the Indian Ocean, due west of India, is a tiny group of coral atolls. Each resort is on its own private island, surrounded by white sand beaches, swaying palms and crystal clear blue waters. The weather it at its hottest and driest from December through until April so perfect for your next sunshine break.

When you arrive in The Maldives, the rest of the world will seem very far away; it is the perfect destination for a honeymoon, or simply an escape from the stresses of everyday life.

Imagine stretches of pure white sand to relax upon and shimmering lagoons to bathe in, with scuba diving and snorkelling rated as some of the finest in the world. The waters around The Maldives are home to over 1000 different types of marine life and provide a spectacular sight. Watersports abound with windsurfing, sailing and waterskiing all on hand, while the surrounding seas boast some of the world’s best game fishing year round.

Oundle Travel offers a range of airlines including British Airways direct from London; however a far superior service with Emirates and Ethiad offer seamless connections over Dubai and Abu Dhabi with their awardwinning Business Class cabins.

“Accommodation does vary enormously on these islands,” says Paula Cockcroft from Oundle Travel. There is budget style accommodation from as little as £915.00 for 7 nights Half Board on the 3* island of Thulhagiri, with an All Inclusive option available.

For an alternative 3* Plus island Kuredu offers a fully All Inclusive option with land and non-motorised watersports also on offer - From £1159.00 for 7 nights. A stunning 5* property and a firm favourite with Oundle Travel is Baros, a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Baros is an iconic resort offering deluxe rooms and water villas in a contemporary style from £1939.00 pp for 7 nights Bed & Breakfast.

For absolute 5* luxury that will meet and exceed expectations and to blow your budget completely Huvafen Fushi has to be one of the best retreats in the Maldives offering absolute 5* accommodation from £2015.00 for 7 nights travelling Easter 2013.

• Contact Oundle Travel on 01832 273600 for more information. www.oundletravel.co.uk

Brisith Hockey star and medal winning Olympian inspires Copthill pupils It was wonderful to welcome Great Britain hockey star and medal winning Olympian Crista Cullen to officially open Copthill’s new astro turf before Christmas. The pitch is to be known as the ‘Saxon Pitch’ due to the discovery of Saxon artefacts when it was being constructed.

After the ribbon was ceremonially cut (using a rather nifty contraption made by Mr Teesdale and consisting of two old hockey sticks and a pair of secateurs!) it was straight out onto the astro for a few penalty flicks. Crista Cullen was joined by pupils and guests to try and score as many goals as possible against U11 goal keepers, Bea and Cecily Wells. The girls showed some fearsome defending skills and very few of the attempts at goal ended in success - not even Crista Cullen’s!

After lunch, every pupil from Year 1 upwards, was lucky enough to take part in a coaching session with Crista. It was a delight to watch pupils so thoroughly enjoying the experience and getting well and truly stuck in. Helen Harris, Head of PE at Copthill said “What an inspiring day for our young hockey players, Crista’s infectious enthusiasm for sport and her hard work and efforts is a real inspiration to all the children.”

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Charity Challenge James Clipston is about to embark on the biggest challenge of his life so far. He has secured a place to run the Virgin London Marathon on the 21st of April 2013 for the Sue Ryder Charity.

James told SL: “It has been an ambition of mine to take part in the Marathon after seeing my dad complete it twice when I was a child.

This year I witnessed a close friend lose her Mum to a terminal illness which inspired me to go ahead and apply.

“After seeing the amazing care and support given to not only the patients but also their families I decided this was the charity I wanted to raise money for. There are not many families in the local area whose lives haven’t been impacted by the great work of the Sue Ryder charity in some way. I decided the best way to raise money was to celebrate the success of Sue Ryder by holding a Charity Ball.”

This will be held at Greetham Valley Golf Club on the 8th of March 2013.

If you would like to celebrate please contact 07794 872185 or email for further details at clipo1@sky.com or all donations welcome at Virginmoneygiving.com/JamesClipston

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HOL ID AYS

January getaways Alysia Anderson takes a tour of local travel experts to find inspiring ideas for winter breaks Oundle Travel

“Vietnam and Cambodia are two of the most beautiful and unspoilt areas of Indochina and are already very popular for 2013,” comments Paula Cockcroft, Director of Oundle Travel.

“Vietnam offers two outstanding cities: Saigon and Hanoi, both served by direct Vietnam Airlines flights from London. Hanoi in particular has retained much of its character and is the gateway to one of the region’s most amazing sights, the iconic Halong Bay. In Cambodia, the World Heritage site of Angkor Wat is also truly spectacular.” Oundle Travel offers a tailormade 17-day private tour of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos for £2,799 per person including English-speaking guide, all flights, four-star accommodation and breakfast. Also available for 2013 are day tours such as cookery classes, cycling on a silk island or elephant riding.

• Marketplace, Oundle PE8 4EA Tel: 01832 273600; www.oundletravel.co.uk

Stamford Independent Travel More Than Travel

“For a real winter experience, consider the Icehotel in Sweden,” says Helen Dooley.

Standing 200km north of the Arctic Circle, the hotel is created afresh each year by international artists. Glistening sculptures and ice chandeliers line pillared hallways and the bedrooms have ice furniture. “Don’t worry though; you’ll be snug at night in a thermal sleeping bag laid on reindeer skins”. Departing on 21 January, a night in an ice room and two nights in a normal room, with breakfast and London flights, is £815 per person. For sunshine, Helen suggests Oman. “I love its ease of access with a flight time of just over seven hours and a time difference of four. Muscat offers traditional souks and fabulous five-star hotels along the beautiful white-sand coastline of the Arabian Sea. Or, for total relaxation, my own slice of heaven is the Six Senses Hideaway at Zighy Bay on the Musandam Peninsula.

Reached by road from Dubai through the spectacular Hajjar Mountains, it’s a stunning property.” Five nights in a one-bedroom villa with a private pool, including breakfast, transfers and Emirates flights from London, costs from £1,502 per person.

• 23 St George’s St, Stamford PE9 2BJ Tel: 01780 433333; www.morethantravel.co.uk

Briarfields, Norfolk

Independent travel agent Emma Bate says: “For a beach destination in January I’d suggest the island of Boa Vista in Cape Verde.” Cape Verde is an archipelago in the Atlantic, west of Africa.

With exquisite sandy beaches, a similar time zone to the UK and temperatures averaging 25C, it’s ideal for winter sun without the jet lag. A week’s holiday at the all-inclusive Riu Karamboa Hotel on 9 January costs from £669 per person, including flights from Birmingham and transfers. “Prices are subject to availability and can change until a booking is confirmed,” notes Emma.

• 44 St Paul’s St, Stamford PE9 2BH Tel: 01780 763030; www.stamfordindependenttravel.co.uk

Families, walkers, cyclists and pets are all welcome at this tranquil hotel on the North Norfolk coast. With views of Brancaster beach and the Titchwell salt marshes, it’s a fantastic retreat whatever the time of year. January brings empty beaches, huge skies and a roaring log fire to relax beside with a pint of real ale or cream tea. There’s plenty of fresh air to be had

Tots to Travel

Rob and Wendy Shand moved their offices to Stamford last year and continue to expand their portfolio of family-friendly holiday homes in the UK and Europe. Each has all the paraphernalia families with young children need, from toys to sterilisers. There’s also an online shop selling everything from car seats to nappies. Many items can be delivered to your holiday home, saving valuable luggage space. “Auberge du Soleil is a gorgeous ski property ideal for big groups” says Wendy. Set close to a chairlift, this traditional Savoyard chalet sleeps 12 plus two babies and costs from £5,140 for a week.

For winter sun, Wendy suggests the Hotel Villamaria in Tenerife, with its fantastic pools (one heated) and crèche. Two-bedroom villas start from £1,750 for a week in January.

• Tel: 0845 2694126; www.totstotravel.co.uk

nearby, whether with birdwatching, coastal walks and seal spotting or visiting the region’s stately homes and market towns. Doubles start from £105 per night, b&b.

• Main St, Titchwell, Hunstanton PE31 8BB Tel: 01485 210742; www.briarfieldshotelnorfolk.co.uk

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E AT ING OUT

DINING OUT AT THE JACKSON STOPS COUNTRY INN Nicholas Rudd-Jones found much to delight in this charming country inn that is as good as any restaurant Pan Fried Duck Breast

Pan Fried Fillet of Seabass

Cinnamon Poached Pear

Rob Knowles Timbale of West Runton Lobster

Chocolate 3 ways

Terrine of melon & Preserved Autumn Fruits he Jackson Stops Country Inn at Stretton is back on top form. It has a wide-ranging and interesting menu that is at the very top end of pub food; in fact it’s probably best to think of it as a restaurant with a ‘pubby feel’, especially the delightful front bar and the sprinkling of locals using it as their watering hole.

Rob and Mandy Knowles are the very capable managers at the inn. They have worked with Robert Reid, the owner for the last 28 years.

The two Roberts first met at the Nottingham

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Clarendon College in the 80s, and then worked together at the White Horse in Empingham, Barnsdale Lodge and the Orangery at Burghley before coming together here. Mandy works front of house. They live nearby and have loved and appreciated the area all their lives.

Robert’s cooking philosophy is very straightforward: “Good, well-produced food that looks lovely and tastes delicious…but nothing too fussy or complicated.”

We believe that the pictures tell the best

story about what to expect. Try it out, you will not be disappointed by the quality of the food or the ambience. This is amongst the best food that you will get in any pub in the region.

Value is very reasonable - £19.95 for 2 courses and £24.95 for 3 at dinner; £12.95 for two courses at lunch, plus some lighter bite options.

• Rookery Lane, Stretton, Oakham LE15 7RA. Tel: 01780 410237 www.thejacksonstops.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: ELLI DEAN WWW.RUTLANDPHOTOGRAPHER.CO.UK

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Chateau de Monifaud cognac

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£10 tuesday

the perfect way to enjoy Tuesday evenings - a great mid-week treat

Using the finest locally sourced ingredients, traditional baking methods and a craftsman’s attention to detail, the bakers at Hambleton Bakery have created a delicious range of handmade sweet and savoury products including fresh pasta for you and your family to enjoy every day of the week.

We proudly introduce The Rutland Pippin, an apple shaped crusty bread enrobing hand pulled Grasmere ham hock, sausage meat, Colston Bassett Stilton, spices and a homemade apple puree.

Our Chefs prepare exclusive dishes, using fresh seasonal produce and carefully selected spices to provide delicious exotic flavours. We will select the most popular dishes to take pride of place on our new Spring menu…. So whether it’s your sports team get together or your book club regular catch up, £10 Tuesday at East is worth a visit. Great food and great atmosphere with great value for money. Please reserve your table in advance because it won’t be the best kept secret for long. See you on Tuesday for £10 Tuesday.

01733 315 702

Upper Deck Charters Town Bridge Peterborough PE1 1FP

Warm up your Winter Evenings Tuesday Night Fish Night

As seen on ITV 1’s Britain’s Best Bakery.

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Lincolnshire , PE9 1PL

Enquiries 01572 812995 info@hambletonbakery.co.uk www.hambletonbakery.co.uk

Robert & Julia Reid welcome you to The Jackson Stops, the ideal meetMain friends and family and enjoy Choice of 3place TastytoFish Courses just £9.95 each fabulous food which is all locally sourced!

Wednesday Night Pie Night JANUARY & FEBRUARY OFFERS

Choice of 3 of our chef’s delicious pies just £9.95 each

‘Lunch for Less”

Thursday Night Steak Night £10.50 for 2 courses -Tuesday to Saturdays

EnjoyWINTER a fabulous Rump Steak WARMERS with a choice of 3 sauces Tuesday: Fish Night: Choice of 3 tasty fishjust main£12.95 courses - £9.95 each SirloinChoice at a supplement of £2.95 Wednesday: PieorNight: of 3 delicious pies - £9.95 each Thursday: Steak Night: Rump Steak with a choice of 3 sauces £12.95 Sirloin a supplement £2.95 Why notortry ourat“Lunch forofLess”

£10.50 for 2 courses Our usual Lunch menu will be £12.95 for 2 courses.

Starter & Main or Main & Dessert

Rookery Lane, Stretton, Rutland, LE15 7RA

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FOOD & DR INK

Hambleton Bakery wins ‘Britain’s Best Bakery’ TV Show competition After many gruelling rounds of culinary challenges that began with 36 accomplished bakers from around the country, Hambleton Bakery was eventually declared to be ‘Britain’s Best Bakery’ in the recent ITV series

A

s well as being a food competition this series was a celebration of local bakeries around the UK, the delicious goods they produce, their regional specialities and their centuries old baking heritage.

Expert judges Mich Turner MBE (TV chef, author and owner of Little Venice Cake Company) and Peter Sidwell (TV chef, cookery writer and restaurateur) sampled the delicacies of the country’s favourite independent, family run and community bakeries, tasting and critiquing their way through breads, cakes, pastries and pies.

The Hambleton team comprised Julian Carter and Scott Kenny, both master bakers, and Tim Hart, coowner of Hambleton Hall, providing assistance when needed. They were ably supported by the team back at the bakery who kept the business ticking over during their absences.

“The competition gave us the opportunity to promote awareness of our traditional breadmaking techniques,” said Julian “and it also stretched us in every way!”

The Competition The first round challenge, at Rockingham Castle, was to make a sausage roll with a point of difference. Hambleton Bakery produced a sausage roll with a slice of black pudding on the bottom, mince in the middle and apple on the top, “encased in a beautifully buttery pastry” in the judges’ words.

The challenge for the second heat was to create an afternoon tea in three hours at a cookery school, using domestic equipment.

The team prepared two types of bread, three different types of pastry, cakes and chocolates (including a raspberry and chocolate cake, lemon tarts in baked cases and a mille-feuille with strawberries). On the savoury side there were scrambled eggs, smoked salmon on muffins; and manchets (brioche-like buns) with chicken liver.

The teams also had to create a judge’s cake – a meringue roulade with lemon curd. All the teams found this difficult but, in the words of the judges “Hambleton survived their curd crisis” and made it through to the next round.

For this round the contestants were invited to

‘create a modern twist on a traditional British cake,’ which was to be judged by the Barnes Women’s Institute.

Julian chose to create a ‘flat’ Battenburg cake, with a filling that was described by the judges as ‘marvellously gooey’.

For the next round, six teams met at Ipswich Catering College, with the brief to create a sweet and savoury bake for sale at Newmarket Races. The day begun at 7am and the requirement was for 100 of each.

Hambleton Bakery created a new product, Ploughman’s Parcel, which is now for sale in all its stores. It is a savoury focaccia dough filled with Lincolnshire Poacher Cheese, Apple, Celery and homemade Chutney made with figs, dates, onions and balsamic vinegar, topped with seeds. The sweet bake was a tea cake with various racing odds added on top of each.

Once again, Hambleton Bakery did well and progressed to the final.

The Final The final round involved three teams and three challenges. The other two teams were Broughton Village Stores in Baldry, The Lake District (a husband and wife team who had both retired from the prison service to pursue their passion for bread) and the Bakery Dunbar in Scotland.

The first challenge was to bake as much bread as possible in the morning and then sell it at Leadenhall Market during the rest of the day.

The teams also had to make a Judge’s choice bread, a Jewish bread called Challah, which is a

sweetened dough with eggs and butter, braided.

The second challenge was to create an iconic bake inspired by local ingredients. Hambleton Bakery created a Rutland Pippin. Baked in the shape of an apple, it is filled with ham hock, apple & quince purée and Stilton cheese. The bread is a cross between a pastry and dough.

This is now also available at the shops.

The third challenge was to create a wedding cake in a day, with a real life bride and groom telling each of the teams about their preferences. The Hambleton Bakery bride and groom wanted something really different, inspired by the Mexican ‘Days of the Dead’.

The team worked incredibly hard to create a stunning three level cake with intricate motifs scattered across the three layers. The Bride and Groom loved it and the cake judge loved it too.

In the end the judges found much to commend in Hambleton Bakery’s offering and they were awarded the honour of being ‘Britain’s Best Bakery’.

Julian Carter commented: “We were surprised that we got this far, and amazed to win. It was a delight to meet so many other bakers from around the country who are passionate, as we are, about traditional baking.

We learnt a lot from each other and tried out new ideas. It will all have been worthwhile if it helps to promote the values of real bread made the traditional way.”

Many congratulations to Hambleton Bakery; and we can enjoy their products every day at one of their four stores in Exton, Oakham, Stamford or Oundle.

• Hambleton Bakery Tel: 01572 812995 www.hambletonbakery.co.uk

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FOOD & DR INK

Sticking with Tradition Indulge in some outstanding locally produced homemade puddings, cakes and pies and a little of what you fancy!

will be available in Johannah’s Patisserie and on their early morning coffee van at Stamford Train Station throughout January.

• Johannah’s, Purveyor of sweets, treats and delightful cakes, 11 Gilmore Close, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6FR, Tel: 07725 607625, www.johannahs-patisserie.co.uk

Baines Bakery “People come far and wide to Baines Bakery, and come especially for our Battenberg Cake,” says Richard Baines. Otherwise known as ‘Church Winter Cake,’ this traditionally baked and handmade Genoese sponge with almonds and Baines’ own marzipan is quite delicious. Sticking with tradition and unique to Baines Bakery, portions of cake are cut and sold by weight. Next to the bakery is the tearoom run by daughter Katie, who took over the running of the tearoom in 2011, forty six years after her Grandmother Dora set it up.

• Baines Bakery and Tea Shop, 3 High Street West, Uppingham Rutland LE15 9QB Johannah’s Patisserie “You can have your cake and eat it even if your intention is to start the New Year leading a healthier lifestyle,” says Johannah. Indulge whilst watching your health and waistline, as the beauty of these cakes - gingerbread cake, orange and cardamom pudding and apple strudel are that they contain no fat, are all under 250 calories per portion and contain one of your five a day. All these cakes, and more healthy options,

44

Hambleton Bakery Hambleton Bakery’s Treacle Tart and Fruit Tarts – Made from scratch using only the best ingredients including free range eggs, local Lincolnshire butter and fruit from Seldom Seen Farm for the popular summer pudding (in season – check for availability). Treacle Tart (made using the bakery’s breadcrumbs and Tate and Lyle Syrup – using cane sugar adds to the flavour) and Fruit Tarts all prepared using recipes that master baker Julian and his team of bakers have worked hard at to perfect. All are handmade, free from additives and preservatives and cooked in the wood-fired oven at Exton powered by wood gathered from local woods and forests, which adds to the special flavour and provenance of each individually baked tart.

Buy direct from bakeries in Stamford, Oakham and Oundle. Tarts can be bought in individual or large size. Advisable to pre-order to avoid disappointment (Telephone Exton Bakery 01572 812995 or order from the bakery shop specific to your area), www.hambletonbakery.co.uk Pudding & Pie Pudding & Pie – What could me more tempting and delicious than a Pudding & Pie steamed Marmalade or Sticky Toffee pudding after a traditional Sunday roast lunch? Sticky Toffee pudding, old-fashioned treacle pudding and Apple & Cinnamon (made with local apples) are firm favourites. Mary makes her puddings using locally sourced flour from Whissendine Mill, Fowlers Free Range eggs (Stamford Farmer’s Market) and local fruit.

Find Mary on Oundle Farmer’s Market (2nd Saturday in the month) or contact Mary to order (Tel: 01780 470025, Kingscliffe)

STAMFORD LIVING january 2013

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Offers at The Crown Happy Hour Sunday to Friday 3.00pm to 8.00pm

Carlsberg, Adnams or Thatchers £2.50 per pint Buy 2 large glasses House Wine and get the rest of the bottle free.

3 Crown cocktails for £10.00.

Choose from Mojito, Bramble, Tom Collins or Norskopolitan.

Choose any three pick and mix for £10.00

Choose any three pick and mix and a bottle of House wine for £15.00

Coming Soon

All Saints’ Hotels Real Ale. This ale has a smooth hop character and is a reliable, easy drinking session beer.

Coming in January – Sausage, mash and a pint for £12.00 Choice of beer the same as happy hour, or 175ml House wine or soft drink.

Breakfast to be served until 12 noon each morning.

Breakfast menu starts from £4.95 The Crown Hotel, All Saints’ Place, Stamford

t. 01780 763136 e. reservations@thecrownhotelstamford.co.uk Follow @CrownStamford on twitter

www.thecrownhotelstamford.co.uk

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Eat Drink & Be Merry!

Lunch: A main course with coffee for just £10 (Available every Monday - Friday between 12 midday - 2.30pm)

Dinner: Two main courses and a bottle of wine or jug of ale for just £20 (Available Sunday - Thursday between 6pm - 7pm)

The Bull & Swan at Burghley Tel: 01780 766412 www.thebullandswan.co.uk 27 High St, Swayfield Nr Grantham, NG33 4LL T. 01476 550 415

Game Menu

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SKDC 5 Star Food Hygiene Award

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19/12/12 12:22:30

EATING OUT

Stamford’s best kept culinary secret Nicholas Rudd-Jones tried out the Gallery Restaurant at Stamford College and was mightily impressed You really need to check out Stamford College’s Gallery Restaurant. This is the training facility for the college’s catering students, and it is open to the public Wed-Fri lunchtime and selected Thursday evenings during term time.

What you will experience is some really great food, matching anything else that you will eat in the region; supported by attentive service and a very friendly atmosphere. You get a really great deal price-wise and the students get a chance to show you what they can do food and servicewise. Oh, and you also get the thrill of knowing you are supporting the next generation of star chefs and waiters. A recent semi-finalist on MasterChef no less, Aaron Ashmore, 21, trained here, before graduating to the George and then a top London restaurant.

We went along to a fine dining evening and were bowled over by the food. It was four courses in all for £20 a head, probably half of what you would pay for a similar meal in an outside restaurant. We were welcomed by the very affable manager, Marie-Pierre, who has worked there for several years and guides the students and makes sure the guests are well looked after.

We began with canapés, a wonderful array of five different pieces including pork belly, spinach roulade, fish pie on a spoon, a spinach & cream cheese roll and a mozzarella slice.

The starter, a duck rillette with plum chutney, was one of the best starters I have had anywhere in the last year. The duck rillette had good

texture and a really game-y taste, and the plum chutney complemented it perfectly; thin slices of toasted baguette (all the bread is baked on site) went well with it.

For the main course, after a cranberry sorbet refresher, we chose the Supreme of Salmon, with herb crust, roasted fennel and beurre blanc. The fennel especially worked very well.

Then on to the dessert, the St Clement’s Trio, which was another high point of the evening; a lemon macaroon, a finger of lemon tart, a quenelle lemon meringue ice cream, raspberries and raspberry coulis. The table next door chose it as soon as they saw how much we were enjoying it.

Any remaining space (there was none; they gave us a cake box to take them home in) and you could enjoy the home-made petits fours and coffee.

As we were heading out we were stopped by a couple of diners who had seen me taking pictures of the food. “I hope you’re not going to go and tell too many people about this place,” they opined, tongue in check “we don’t want too many people to find out about it!”

Opening times: Wed, Thu, Fri lunch during term times (£11.50 for 3 courses) Fine dining on Thursday evenings: January: 10th, 17th, 24th and 31st February: 7th and 28th; March: 7th, 14th and 21st; April: 18th and 25th May: 2nd, 16th and 23rd (£20) The shop is open every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday lunchtime from 12pm and sells freshly baked pastries, cakes and breads, all handmade by the students.

• www.stamford.ac.uk Booking essential, call 01780 484340

LUNCH FOR EVEN LESS 2013 Jan-March 7 Local Top Restaurants Team Up to offer a fine lunch at an especially low price

I

t’s hard to imagine a stronger line-up of local restaurants to enjoy with this year’s brilliant Lunch for Less offer.

Whether you want a taste of fine dining of Hambleton Hall, the great food in a rustic pub atmosphere of The Berkeley Arms., The Marquis of Exeter, The Olive Branch, The Red Lion at Stathern; or the distinctly individual style of the shabby chic Langar Hall or the modern Wicked Witch. What these restaurants all have in common is a great chef, great cooking and great service. These lunch deals really represent superb value. What do you say to one a week to lighten up those dull winter months?!

Offer Valid Monday to Saturday, the offer is variable to each restaurant. All details listed overleaf.

The Berkeley Arms, Wymondham 2 courses for £12.50 (3rd course for £3.00) Offer valid - Tuesday, 29th January to Saturday, 30th March 2013 Closed on Mondays, excluding Valentine’s Day 01572 787587 www.theberkeleyarms.co.uk

Hambleton Hall, Nr. Oakham 2 courses for £22.00 (3rd course for £6.00) (inclusive of 12.5% service charge) Offer valid - Monday, 14th January to Saturday, 2nd March 2013 Excluding Valentine’s Day 01572 756991 www.hambletonhall.com Langar Hall, Langar 2 courses for £16.50 (3rd course for £5.00) Offer valid - Monday, 14th January to Saturday, 30th March 2013 01949 860559 www.langarhall.co.uk The Marquess of Exeter, Lyddington 2 courses for £12.95 (3rd course for £3.00) Offer valid - Monday, 14th January to Saturday, 30th March 2013 Excluding Valentine’s Day 01572 822477 www.marquessexeter.co.uk The Olive Branch, Clipsham 2 courses for £15.50 (3rd course for £4.00)

Offer valid - Monday, 14th January to Saturday, 30th March 2013 Excluding Valentine’s Day 01780 410355 www.theolivebranchpub.com The Red Lion Inn, Stathern 2 courses for £13.50 (3rd course for £1.50) Offer valid - Tuesday, 15th January to Saturday, 30th March 2013 Closed on Mondays, excluding Valentine’s Day 01949 860868 www.theredlioninn.co.uk The Wicked Witch, Ryhall 2 courses for £14.50 (3rd course for £3.00) Offer valid - Tuesday, 15th January to Saturday, 30th March 2013 Closed on Mondays, excluding Valentine’s Day 01780 763649 www.ryhallwitch.co.uk To make your reservation, please call the restaurant of your choice and quote the Lunch for Even Less’ offer. Subject to availability.

STAMFORD LIVING january 2013

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19/12/12 12:27:16

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D IA RY DAT E S

WHAT’S ON

John Shuttlewor th

Amander Meade selects some of the best entertainment across the region this month and Michael Fassbender.

Stamford Arts Centre. Film ticket is £5.

Further information and booking Tel: 01780 763203 or www.stamfordartscentre.co.uk

Thursday 31 January, 7.30pm TALK: An Evening with Sarah Outen In 2009 she became the first woman and youngest person to row solo across the Indian Ocean from Australia to Mauritius.

Currently completing an even more ambitious expedition - London2London: Via the World using only a kayak, a bike and a rowing boat to complete a continuous loop of the planet. Come along and hear Sarah host a talk about her travels.

Stamford Arts Centre Tickets £12/£10 Tel: 01780 763203 or www.stamfordarts.co.uk

Wednesday 9 January to Sunday 13 January – various performance times PANTOMIME: Sleeping Beauty A family favourite full of magic, laughter, audience participation and spectacular surprises. Packed full of fun, magic and adventure, this enchanting fairytale will captivate all ages with stunning special effects, a good helping of fairy dust and a fire breathing dragon.

Stamford Theatre Tickets £12 (£40 family of four) Tel: 01780 763203 www.stamfordartscentre.co.uk Tuesday 15 January, 1pm EVENT: Literature at Lunchtime with Dr Jane Mackay A discussion on Charlotte Bronte’s timeless classic for the start of the new year to tune in with the production of a play of the novel in the theatre on 25 January. Dr Jane Mackay will take us through Jane’s progress from neglected orphan to her final union with the dramatic Mr Rochester. The talk is followed at 2.30pm by the film starring Mia Wasikowska

Thursday 17 January, 10.30am to 4pm COURSE: Watercolour Painting Day: Normanton Church, Rutland Water Join talented local artist Sandra Peck to recreate an enchanting view from nearby Rutland Water with its partly submerged old stone church and beautiful reflections. Her step-by-step demonstrations are perfect for seasoned artists and novices alike. A wonderfully relaxing day. Barnsdale Gardens, Exton Price £69, including lunch To book Tel: 01572 813200 Wednesday 23 January, 10.30am-12.30pm GUIDED WALK: Winter at Barnsdale Take a very special tour of Barnsdale Gardens with owner Nick Hamilton, discovering the highlights of these wonderful gardens at this most magical time of year. Learn how individual gardens were created and find out which plants and trees are at their prime in winter, and the best place to put them in your own garden.

Price £18 per person To book Tel: 01572 813200 Saturday 26 January TRIBUTE SHOW: Let’s Hang On Back by popular demand, an outstanding tribute to Frankie Valli and the Four Season. Featuring an amazing live band who will transport you back to this magical time in musical history – guaranteed to have you singing at the top of your voice and dancing in the aisles.

Corn Exchange Theatre, Stamford Tickets £16 Tel: 01780 766455 Saturday 2 February, 7pm OPERA: Young Opera Venture present The Marriage of Figaro Mozart’s great comic masterpiece, with its witty and complex plot, great music, and characters in hilarious and dangerous situations, makes a very entertaining evening in the theatre. Presented with small orchestra and sung in English by young professional singers with superb diction, you will never miss a word of the plot and love the sense of involvement in this intimate production. (NB: performance duration is three hours with one interval) Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre Tickets £15 Tel: 01780 766455 Saturday 26 January, 8pm COMEDY: John Shuttleworth – Out of Our Sheds The Sony and Perrier nominated Shuttleworth

ventures beyond the garden gate to tread the mean streets of Britain after a long absence.

Which is better: city life or country living?

Supermarket or village shop?

Stamford Theatre Tickets £10 Tel: 01780 763203 Friday 25th January 6pm - 9pm ECHARITY ZUMBATHON in aid of the STROKE ASSOCIATION Copthill School, Barnack Road, Uffington For a fun packed evening with a variety of Zumba styles from Zumbatomic (suitable for 4 -12 yr olds) to Zumba Gold (low impact) and Zumba Fitness to Zumba Toning. There will be refreshments available to help keep you going, along with some great raffle prizes including a pamper day worth over £140! You can pop in for a while or join us for the long haul but with a few extras thrown in it’s sure to be a fun night out for family & friends.

Tickets £10 in advance or £12 on the night. One Child under 12 goes FREE with every paying adult.

Thursday 28th January 6:30pm - 9pm INDULGENCE EVENING in aid of the STROKE ASSOCIATION Copthill School, Barnack Road, Uffington Fashion, Wine, Pampering and shopping.... what more could a girl ask for?! Well it’s all going on under one roof and all profits will be going to the Stroke Association.

Enjoy a variety of taster treatments from Reflexology to Indian Head Massage and Non Surgical Facials to File and Paints plus learn more about Nutrition, Acupuncture and Hypnotherapy. There will be a range of retailers offering everything from Jewellery to skincare products, chocolates to handbags and cards to candles. Fantastic raffle prizes will be given away throughout the evening as well as taking part in some wine tasting. Tickets £10 which includes 1 raffle ticket and a glass of wine on arrival.

Call Equilibrium on 01780 757579 to purchase tickets for either event or visit www.equilibriumstamford.co.uk for more information

STAMFORD LIVING JANUARY 2013

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19/12/12 12:29:19

Clock & Watch Restoration and Repair Robert Loomes MBHI FRSA 4, St Mary’s Hill, Stamford PE9 2DP 01780 481319

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Stamford Endowed Schools Entrance Examinations Saturday 19th January 2013 (for entry in September 2013) For entry into the senior schools, assistance with fees is available through SES scholarships and bursaries, which have no catchment area restriction.

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“THEO IS ONLY THE “THEO IS ONLY THE LATEST MEMBER OF THE F OF THE FAMILY TO SHOW AN TO INTEREST IN ANTIQUES.” SHOW AN INTERE Theo is a Bichon Frise and likes nothing better than sniffing

out a bargain at St. Martins Antiques. He belongs to Mary Theo is a Bich Theo is a Bichon O’Hara who hales from California and has lived in Stamford Frise and likes for thirteen years. Her mother was a collector of English Oak out a bargain furniture and Mary grew up surrounded by English antiques. nothing better O’Hara who ha She has now passed on her enthusiasm to her youngest than sniffing out daughter who, inspired by a visit to China, recently bought a for thirteen yea cloisonne bowl in the Centre. a bargain at St furniture and M Martins Mary collectsAntiques.

English Porcelain, her latest purchase being a 19th century hand painted cup and saucer.

While it hasto pride of place in her china cabinet, Mary also enjoys a refreshing ‘cuppa’ from He belongs She has now it occasionally too.

Mary O’Hara daughter who, who hales fromAntiques 20th Anniversary and it’s thanks to regular customers like Mary Next year is St. Martins cloisonne bowl that the Centre has a history California and has of success. lived Stamford We’d likein to thank Mary and all our regular customers for making the years simply fly by and if you read and decide to visit us for the first time, then here’s to the next 20 years. forthis thirteen Mary collects English Porcelain, her latest purcha years.

Her mother St. Martins Antiques 23a High Street, St. Martins, PE9place 2LF. saucer.

WhileStamford, it hasLincolnshire, pride of in her china cab Tel: (01780) 481158 Web: www.st-martins-antiques.co.uk was a collector of English Oak furniture and Mary grew up it occasionally too. surrounded by English antiques.

She has now passed on the enthusiasm to her youngest isChina, St. Martins daughter who, inspiredNext by a year visit to recentlyAntiques bought a 20th Anniversary cloisonne bowl in the Centre. that the Centre has a history of success.

Mary collects English Porcelain, her latest purchase being a 19th century hand painted cup and has all pride We’d like tosaucer. thank While Maryitand our regular custom of place in the china cabinet, Mary also enjoys a refreshing read this and decide to visit us for the first time, th ‘cuppa’ from it occasionally too.

Next year is St Martins Antiques 20th Anniversary and it’s St.Mary Martins Antiques 23a thanks to regular customers like that the centre has a High Street, St. M Tel: (01780) 481158 Web: www history of success.

We’d like to thank Mary and all our regular customers for making the years simply fly by and if you read this and decide to visit us for the first time, then here’s to the next 20 years.

St Martins Antiques 23a High Street, St Martins, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 2LF. Tel: (01780) 481 158 Web: www.st-martins-antiques.co.uk 50

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ASK LE O S PECIAL

St Peter’s Street 100 yEArs Ago St Peter’s Street is the home of Ask Leo so it has been interesting for Jean and Sue to discover the businesses and occupations of the street a hundred years ago

St Peter’s Street 100yrs ago

S

t Peter’s Street is the western approach to the town and probably Stamford’s oldest street. In 1911-2 there were only a few cars, and bicycles would be the most usual means of transport. Horses and carts would carry goods and people to villages and nearby towns. As there was no expansion of the town until the 1870s big houses and slums were on the same street. Only Rutland Terrace was built just for the well-to-do.

The majority of people would work in the town and would buy everything they needed locally.

Architecturally St Peter’s looks much the same as it did a hundred years ago but it is a very different place today. Fortunately, it still has a social mix but it has fewer shops and businesses than before and is now mainly residential. Houses have been restored and cars line the road, which is now tarmacked.

The Well-To-Do A hundred years ago most of the large houses were occupied by people running businesses in the town. Edward Joyce, the manager of the Stamford Mercury, lived at Number 2. John Hayes (now retired) lived at Number 33 - his family had owned the Carriage works which had been such an important business in Scotgate and West Street in the 19th century. John Woolston, who was living at Number 31, was a builder, farmer and quarry owner who built some of the houses in Northfields. He also pioneered the growing of sugar beet in England. Torkington House had recently been vacated by W.E. Martin, an agricultural engineer whose business, Martin’s Cultivator Company was in Ryhall Road. (He moved to Rock House in Scotgate.) Two houses were occupied by professionals: Charles Lowe, a solicitor, lived at Number 16 and John Edge, a Building Surveyor, at Number 1.

Shops and Businesses There were a number of self-employed people who had shops along the street. A photographer, Rebecca Nicholls, lived at Number 30 while Scholes, a whitesmith, lived at 34; Pearson, a blacksmith had premises here and a decorator, Cornelius Sibson, lived at 15a. Starsmore was a corn miller who lived and ran his business from 21/22. Most streets in the town had a boot maker to serve the needs of the community and in St Peter’s St Joseph Lee had premises at Number 26. All streets had public houses

St Peter’s Street Today

and there were two here, the Greyhound at Number 11 and the Chequers at Number 23.

Today Askers still have a bakery in St Peter’s but in the early 20th century the street supported 3 bakeries. Sheffield was a baker and grocer at Number 29, Emmitt had a bakery at Number 14 and Betsey Andrews had a bakery and grocery shop at Number 9a.

The Poorer Classes There were two almshouses to house the poor along St Peter’s Street.

Williamsons, at Number 3, provided for seven widows who lived in single rooms. They could apply to live here at the age of 45. The other almshouse was Hopkinson’s Hospital owned by the Town Council which had eight rooms.

Courts were built in gardens behind premises when building was restricted to the old town. A few houses provided income for the shop owner and much needed housing for the workers. Dixon’s Court was built behind the premises of Charles Dixon a master tailor. Exeter Court had two rows of houses facing each other (one row was demolished later for the Drill Hall). The houses here had only 3 rooms but two of them each had eight occupants. They became slums due to poor sanitation and multiple-occupancy. Dixon’s Court was demolished in the 1930s while Exeter Court was completely restored in the 1980s. The other people living along the street worked on the railway, in the building trade, the iron foundry or as clerks.

Compared to Today The main difference today is that the majority of properties are privately owned whereas in the past most were rented from the Exeter estate or from the charities. Williamson’s Callis is now a private house. The large garden belonging to Torkington House has been built on and the one row of Exeter Court that survives provides a very different quality of accommodation to that of 100 years ago. There are still a few businesses including a Music shop and a bathroom shop where Woolston lived at Number 31. Twilley’s office is at Number 30 and a fabric printing shop at Number 5. Lambs hardware shop at 21/22 and Askers bakery are the only shops catering for everyday needs

STAMFORD LIVING january 2013

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BUILDERS Renovation & Restoration Project Management Painting and Decorating • Plastering Rotton Timber Repairs

PAINTED FURNITURE

E: steve@sr-electrical.com

12 Forest Gardens 12 Forest 12 Forest Forest Gardens Gardens Gardens 12 12 Forest Gardens 12 ForestStamford Gardens Stamford Stamford Stamford Stamford Stamford Lincs Lincs Lincs Lincs Lincs 12Lincs Forest Gardens PE9PE9 2FL PE9 PE9 2FL 2FL 2FL PE9 2FL Stamford PE9 2FL T/F: 01780 763415 T/F: T/F: T/F: 01780 01780 01780 763415 763415 763415 T/F: 01780 763415 T/F: 01780 763415 Lincs www.sr-electrical.com www.sr-electrical.com www.sr-electrical.com www.sr-electrical.com PE9 2FL www.sr-electrical.com www.sr-electrical.com T/F: 01780 763415

Contact Lesley Anne Jones 01778 394744 07762 325494 www.paintedout.co.uk

PREGNANCY ADVICE All aspects of carpentry and building work undertaken

C CARPENTERS A R P E N T AND E R S B U I OF L DSTAMFORD E R S BUILDERS OF STAMFO CARPENTRY R D

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& ! ! % ( $ ' "$! " #! " Call Alex for help and advice - Fully insured skilled tradesman <<

A ; Tel:01780 754189 Mob:07711311724 Email: a.rodway@btinternet.com #09:?@9 ?>=:@A & 09??::<::?;= www.rodway-builders.co.uk $ #0 1(& - /7 * %* (% *1 &$

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Doors Windows Windows Hardwood flooring James Clipston Hardwood flooring Clipston Over 18James years Experience Clipston Over James 18 years Experience Over 18 years Experience Mobile; Mobile;07794872185 07794872185 Mobile; 07794872185 Email; Venturecarpentry@sky.com Email; Venturecarpentry@sky.com Email; Venturecarpentry@sky.com

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Loft Conversions - Garden Offices â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Kitchen & Bathrooms ) 3 * % 6 * (&&$) Solid & * &%, () Wood Flooring&%) 2 ( % (recommended installer for Welland Valley Timber) &# && #&&( % 4( &$$ % %)* ## ( &( ## % ## / PLASTERING% &-) 6 # % ) $ (5 3 #+. 6 "(& Dry Lining

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OFFICE 01780 756114 MOBILE 07767 444745

ALEXANDER RODWAY

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Clothing Alterations & Repairs Brazenose Lane, Stamford (01780) 480762

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â&#x20AC;˘ SL JAN.indd 54

19/12/12 14:04:37

Jason Musgrove Traditional Slater & Builder 07952 687988 Tel/Fax 01780 444019 jasonmusgrove@btinternet.com Unit 1 Essendine Road, Ryhall, Stamford, Rutland, PE9 4HE

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. Corgi Registered . Over 20 years experience . Tel: 01572 771309

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From the publish

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Best Local Walks and Best Local Bike Rides Best Local Walks and Best Local Bike Rides are stunningly produced A5 guidebooks are stunningly produced A5 guidebooks describing 20 spectacular walks or bike describing 20 spectacular walks or bike rides in detail with maps, pictures and rides in detail with maps, pictures and directions. They also describe points of directions. They also describe points of interest on each route and the best places interest on each route and the best places to find refreshments. to find refreshments.

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STONEWORK

In association with InBarnack association with Country Barnack Country Clothes Clothes

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All types of building work undertaken

For all your new PC and Laptop requirements

Iain Woods All types of PCD and Laptop repairs FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTE and upgrades undertaken Tel: 07841 195181 Broadband & wireless installation Email: i.d.exteriors@hotmail.co.uk www.facebook.com/idexteriors Data Web: recovery • Hardware sales info@acrcomputers.co.uk www.acrcomputers.co.uk CSCS Reg No. 01786097

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TeL: 01780 753477 SCoTgATe – STAmford

To place an advert in next month’s magazine please call Claudia on 01780 480409

Weddings.

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ESSENTIAL WEDDINGS 2013

2013 edition out now! O Write to Essential

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• SL JAN.indd 55

19/12/12 14:57:12

STA M FOR D PE OPLE

Stamford by Strangers Lesley Gibson discovers the joys of Couchsurfing (and tells you what it is just in case you didn’t know)

Above: The two Italian sisters Left: Jethro the artist Right: French Dancing

W

hilst travelling alone in my 20s, many kind and generous people took me in whilst saying things like “If it were my daughter, I like to think that someone would be looking out for her “. Invariably, these people - spread across cultures and religions - shared the implicit belief that what goes around comes around.

International Couchsurfing survives on this principal.

Couchsurfers are strangers that borrow your couch; they just sleep on it for a night or two - in situ, and there are safety ratings that work a little like eBay. You can surf or host or do both.

Our first ever surfer arrived on a bicycle and stayed with us whilst working at Burghley Horse Trials. She won hide-and-seek with the kids by stopping halfway down the stairs and pretending to be a tree; and was such a hit on the Girls’ Night Out that I had to fend off usurpers trying to bribe her away with offers of a cooked breakfast!

A talented young environmental artist came from Bristol for an international conference on the subject at The Arts Centre. He was modest and gentle, brought his own muesli and made the house calmer just by being there. I took him out to show him round Stamford, and my kids were so stunned at seeing me leave the house that one gave me a torch and another asked whether they should wait up.

We wanted to keep our two Italian sisters.

54

They intended to be here for the Christmas Fayre but arrived just as it was winding down.

They tried to see Burghley but even though I zoomed them there in the car, it was too dark.

They did however, see a deer. I found myself hoping there were no deer in Italy, just so that they’d have seen something unusual.

I have been French dancing with a 23 year old Parisian sound engineer. It turns out that we are the centre of French dancing in the UK from time to time. It’s fantastically continental in that you cannot simply nod appreciatively whilst savouring a Gin and Tizer. No, you have to get up and fling yourself about, stand on people’s toes, dance with strangers and, most of all, laugh. In April 2011, The Arts Centre hosted a whole French weekend of workshops, dancing and music run by Blowzabella, a British band. To be honest though, even if I had known it was on beforehand, it didn’t sound like my thing - but once there with an enthusiastic stranger, I discovered an entire subculture in the unbelievably packed Ballroom. People had arrived from as far away as Italy and Sheffield for the occasion. Young families hoisted toddlers onto their shoulders and older couples attended with springy descendants in their 20s; though most of those remained earthbound unless polka-ing, which involves legally charging about like a rhino at the sales. I loved it!

Afterwards, one woman told me that I looked ‘…quite alarmed’ throughout. I’m not sure now

whether ‘quite alarmed’ is the face I wear whilst having vigorous, enjoyable exercise. She was probably jealous!

Dreadlocked girls and tattooed boys danced with twin sets and sensible shoes. It really was a fantastic atmosphere. We need to export it to war zones. The B and Bs of Stamford were brimming over fit to burst! On the third Friday of every month, The Northwick Arms in Ketton, runs a workshop followed by a dance. If any free man fancies coming along as my partner, please submit a CV and wear stout shoes. If I look alarmed, that’s me enjoying myself.

A month or so ago, someone came to stay who had walked from Austria and was on his way to Glasgow. It took him 4 months and he arrived here simply because he was walking in a straight line which passed through Stamford.

He said that throughout the UK, people had told him that he would be amazed by Stamford’s beauty; that he was in for a real treat. And he was absolutely speechless; I know this for a fact for, I was there. In return, he impacted on the lives of everyone he met along the way.

In case you don’t believe me, visit… http:// www.justgiving.com/lizzieswalk Artist: http://jethrobrice.com/ Dancing: http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=92t3WvlpjIM www.couchsurfing.org

STAMFORD Living JANUARY 2013

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