Stamford Living November 2012

Helping

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STAMFORD LIVING

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LO C A LLY

Christmas Gifts: Over 50 great ideas for family and friends

food/fashion/health

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beauty/home

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garden/lifestyle

WINTER FASHION Stylish coats to covet interior design Desirable bathrooms

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@LocalLivingUK

Love Food The unique and delicious autumn menu experience at Hambleton Hall

18/10/12 10:13:46

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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

Stamford

Lettings

£195,000 Stamford

3 bedroom bay fronted, semi-detached family home a short walk from local shops and Malcolm Sargent's School. Good sized living accommodation, including a large open plan kitchen/diner, lovely lounge and a sun room overlooking the good sized garden. Off street parking to the front, single garage and an above average sized lawned garden to the rear.

Careby

£219,995

£375,000 Thornhaugh

A charming and well presented family home in a tucked away position within this delightful village.

The accommodation includes 4 bedrooms 2 bathrooms, Living room, Dining room. Kitchen leading to large conservatory. Outside there is plenty of parking, a garage and mature gardens with views to open countryside.

Stamford

Delightful 2 bedroom semi detached in this extremely popular location close to the town centre.

The current owner has completely refitted and redecorated throughout with a new kitchen/diner, 2 good sized reception rooms, one with built in log burner, 2 bathrooms and 2 double bedrooms. Outside is a private courtyard to the rear and off road parking to the front as well as a single garage.

£475,000 Stamford

Extremely well presented 5 bedroom detached house. Refitted kitchen/breakfast room, large family room, separate dining room, lounge, study, utility room and downstairs cloakroom. 2 ensuites and a family bathroom. Large mature gardens, parking and a garage.

Residential Sales

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£675 pcm

Semi-detached property in an established part of the town, within easy walking distance of the town centre. The property comprises Entrance Hall, Front Sitting Room, Dining Room, Fitted Kitchen, Bathroom with shower, 3 Bedrooms garden to the rear (not overlooked) incorporating 2 storage sheds,

£675 pcm

Attractive period property within walking distance of the town centre, local amenities and schools.

Property comprising: Entrance hall, sitting room, dining room, good-sized fitted kitchen. Two double bedrooms and one single bedroom. Upstairs bathroom. Downstairs cloakroom/WC. Enclosed rear garden. Off-street parking. Gas Central Heating.

Lettings

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Stamford

£675 pcm

A delightful Grade II listed period town house located within the centre of town. The property is furnished throughout and briefly comprising: Dining Kitchen, Rear Lobby with door to Courtyard Garden and stairs leading down to Hobby Room/Occasional Bedroom with Bathroom. Sitting Room to the first floor. Second floor with Bedroom and En-suite.

Corby Glen

£850 pcm

This well-presented and spacious detached family home includes: Lounge with feature fireplace, separate dining room, well fitted kitchen/family room with doors to rear, utiltiy room, downstairs cloakroom and study. Four double bedrooms with master en-suite and dressing area. Double garage.

Garden with raised decking.

Mortgages

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

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S TA M FOR D LIVING

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Skatepark success!

Fabulous news that the Skatepark has finally been approved. We all owe a huge debt of gratitude to the Skatepark Committee, who have worked tirelessly to this end for more than four years and have always worked to accommodate both the desire of our kids for a place where they can develop their skateboarding skills and the wish of local residents to live in peace.

The design is all approved and sorted, so subject to further conditions on noise abatement, it’s all systems go.

So the Recreation Park really can continue now to fulfil the function for which is was intended when it was given by the Burghley Estate over 100 years ago…for recreation! And who knows, in 50 years, there will probably be another recreation that we need to accommodate, just as we have enjoyed brass bands, children’s play ground, bowls, crazy golf, tennis and five-aside football there over the years.

As one keen supporter recently said on Twitter: “please, please, please, please, please, please, please, please, please let the kids have their skatepark back!!!” And now it looks like we will.

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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Shopping: More than 50 glorious Christmas gift ideas Updates: The Wool Room, You & Beyond, Energy, , Spiegl Christmas cards Updates: Hair House, Toe-Tally eyebrows, Peterborough Cosmetic Clinic, Elysia, Brown’s Hairdressing Updates: Oundle Travel, Fordham Kitchens, Tip Top, Jules, Identity Updates: Norton Rickett estate agents, Stephenson Smart & Co, Nature Matters, Winter Wonderland

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY 12 17 46

Fashion: Coats Health & Beauty: Christmas Gifts Fashion: The Wolfskin range at Rutland Outdoors

4 CHRISTMAS GIFTS

HOME, GARDEN AND MOTORING 26 31 40 50 67

Design Interiors: Baths & Showers Motoring: Buying second-hand cars Design Interiors: A Homemade Home Design: Chalk furniture painting course Heating Solutions: The Sack Store

FOOD & DRINK 50

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Eating Out: The Golden Pheasant at Etton: Cosy Club 46 RUTLAND OUTDOORS first anniversary Food & Drink: Christmas Cooking Courses Eating Out: Bombay Cottage, Candlesticks Eating Out: 8848 Nepalese Restaurant, The Royal Oak at Swayfield Food & Drink: Autumn Comforts from The Olive Branch Eating Out: Hambleton Hall

ACTIVITIES, LEARNING & BUSINESS 28 39 69 73

Business: Stamford & Rutland Business Awards Activities: Peterborough to Lille on Eurostar Local Walk: Ashley and the surrounding hills What’s On

PEOPLE & PLACES 35 36

43 62 64 59 77

Stamford People: Luke Morrison, Afghan veteran Three leaders of Stamford’s performing arts scene, in conversation Writer’s spot: Country girl vs. cosmopolitan girl Perspectives: Bull-running in Stamford Countryfile: Rectory Farm Ask Leo Special: The Stamford Hospital Stamford People: Vic Couzens

28 BUSINESS AWARDS COVER: Courtesy of Hambleton Hall

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 NOVEMBER 2012

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GIFT GUIDE

Christmas Gifts Alysia Anderson finds festive gifts for family and friends in Stamford’s shops Little Brother Mouse stocking filler, £7.90, www.mouse-ina-box.co.uk

Weekend Offender bobble hats, £30, Energy II (01780 765633)

Portmeirion The Holly and the Ivy teaspoons, £17, Lambs (01780 762652)

Le Toy Van London bus, £44.99, Bubble & Squeak (01780 755799) 3-D sequin art set, £10.49, Colemans of Stamford (01780 762324)

Jonathan Aston tights, £5, Attic (01780 766667)

Belgian Heaven Chocolate Company novelties, from £3.50, Sly (01780 482870)

Easton Shona tweed handbag, £65, The Bag Shop (01780 754794)

Deglingos animal toy, £22.99, Scarlet Sky (01780 238232)

Skull bracelet, £11.50, So… (01780 480777) Gorjass pencil case, £7.99, Love It (01780 482912)

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Lexington cushion, £39, H-Works (01780 754605)

STAMFORD LIVING NOVEMBER 2012

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Eva Solo drip-free oil and vinegar carafe, £30, NGI Design (01780 766899)

Mischa cranberry bag, £69, Ruby Loves (01780 764626)

Floris Gift Box – jasmine-scented shower gel, talcum powder and eau de toilette (other products available too) £92, Tip Top, Silver Lane (01780 238002)

Marjolaine silk nightie, £175, Chameleon (01780 755405)

Superman lunchbox, £9.99, Love It (01780 482912)

Hunter Original Gloss Pillarbox Red wellies, £69.99, Wellieboots.com

Reindeer hooks, £24.99, Nook (01780 751029)

Noble & Wilde merino and possum scarf, £49.95, hat, £29.95, gloves, £19.95, T&C Robinson (01780 755378)

Caro cosmetics bag, £14.50, Sly (01780 482870)

Taylor’s Eye Witness cheese knife set, £20, Lambs Cookshop (01780 754245) Ruby and Ed ladies’ slippers, £39.99, Marcia May (01780 766608)

Passion8 rose and tuberose scented candle, £38, Jules by the Riverside (07967 785273) STAMFORD LIVING NOVEMBER 2012

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29 High Street, Stamford, PE9 2BB.

www.adorn-accessories.co.uk www.facebook.com AdornAccessoriesStamford Contact: Tel 01780 754359

Discover Christmas at Nook

Open seven days a week.

Sheep Market, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 2RB and High Street East, Uppingham, Rutland LE15 9PY Tel: 01780 751029 - Web: www.nookfurniture.co.uk Email: info@nookfurniture.co.uk 6

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10 mm x 297 mm format Motif 01 Full-page advertisement for DIN A4 format 210 mm x 297 mm format

Motiv 01 2-spaltig 92 mm x 155 mm Motif 01 2-column advertisement 92 mm x 155 mm format

Im weißen Feld der Anzeige können Sie Ihre Händleradresse ergänzen.

* You will receive the

complementary heart Charm when purchasing the THOMAS SABO Charm Club bracelet (X0031, X0032).

Only while stocks last.

14 St. Mary’s Street Stamford, PE9 2DF 01780 755996 www.youandbeyond.co.uk *Receive the complementary complimentary heart charm when purchasing the Thomas Sabo Charm Club bracelet (X0031, X0032).

Im weißen

You can enter yourkö d Anzeige ler address in Ihre Händ the white box in the ergänzen. advertisement.

You can ler addre the white advertise

Y&B

You & Beyond

Im weißen Feld der

JEWELLERY Anzeige können Sie

Ihre Händleradresse ergänzen.

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You can enter your dealer address in the white box in the 12:35:22 18/10/12 advertisement.

GIFT GUIDE Adult and children’s socks made from recycled materials, from £11.95, Greencircle (01780 757496)

Rachel Barnes photographs, from £65, www.rachelbarnes.co.uk

Love from Australia sheepskin boots, £179, Energy II (01780 765633)

Stackers jewellery boxes, £10.95, Sinclairs (01780 765421)

Candy striped umbrella, £28, Adorn (01780 754359) NYDJ jeans from £115, silk scarves, from £25, Seaweed (01780 767878)

Decorative stone fragment candle stand, £150, Claire Langley Antiques (01780 752555)

Christian Louboutin shoes, £250, Arch Label Agency (01780 764746)

Pheasant and guns tie and cufflinks set, £25.99, Barnack Country Clothes (01780 740115)

Moose wool blanket, £65, The Wool Room, 01780 461217

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Bomb Cosmetics bath cracker £8.50, Ruby Loves (01780 764626)

STAMFORD LIVING NOVEMBER 2012

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Victoria Eggs Christmas Dinner apron, £22, Chez Soi (01780 482845)

Swarovski crystal wrap bracelets, £50, You & Beyond (01780 755996)

Baroque leggings, £15, So… (01780 480777) Pia Rossini leather gloves, £26, Baubles and Bangles (01780 763333)

Loake Herbert Slippers, £90, North Shoes (01780 755400)

18 carat white gold and diamond heart pendant and chain, £590, Dawson of Stamford (01780 754166)

InWear sparkle dress, £169, LuLu (01780 766675) Limited edition handmade Robin watch (ladies’ Robina version launching for Christmas), £5,580, Robert Loomes (01780 481319)

Silver ball and necklace set, £75, Attic (01780 766667)

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GIFT GUIDE Women’s Nightfall down jacket, £245, Rohan (01780 482934)

Thornback & Peel robin design napkins, £40, Paradise Found (01780 764439)

Retro sweets, from £2.49, As Sweet As… (as_sweet_as@hotmail.co.uk)

Cath Kidston Christmas mug, £8, Corner Farm Interiors (01778 561333) Lewis and Wood set of English Country tea towels, £27 Hunters Interiors (01780 757946)

Classic party games, from £3.25, Sinclairs (01780 765421)

Church’s shoe valet box, £170, Anand Shoes of Stamford (01780 767688)

Fenella Smith jug, £27.50, large mug £17.50, small mug, £14.50, You (01780 765001)

Goal Zero Rock Out portable speakers, £36, Rutland Cycling (01780 460705)

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STAMFORD LIVING NOVEMBER 2012

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8 St Mary’s Hill, Stamford

01780 767878

sales@seaweedretail.co.uk

S

tylish individual day and evening wear presented in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Selection of handbags, scarfs and jewellery to add that finishing touch to any outfit. Please feel welcome to call in the next time you are in Stamford.

Stockists of Not Your Daughters Jeans, Selected Femme, Not the Same, Hackbarths, Cream and Javier Simorra.

Late night shopping. Thursday until 7.30pm

Now Stocking Jack Murphy Clothing

ANAND SHOES

of Stamford

• Stockist of high quality leather footwear from:

The finest traditional and retro sweets, with emphasis on quality and value for money - take a nostalgic trip of fond memories of your favourite childhood sweets.

• Birthday party bags • Wedding favours • Sweet buffets • Corporate events • Celebration cakes made to order • Homemade cakes and cupcakes including wheat & gluten free • Tea, hot chocolate & freshly ground coffee

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

Bears

FA N TA S T I C R A N G E O F CH R I S T M A S G I F TS N O W AVA I LA B LE Gooch’s court • Stamford - T: 07746 766936 - as_sweet_as@hotmail.co.uk

• Shoe care products • Key cutting & Engraving service

28 High Street, Stamford, PE9 2BB - T: 01780 767688 E: anandshoesofstamford@gmail.com 11

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Fa s hion Inside r

Coats to covet Sally Stillingfleet wraps up warm and finds the coat styles you won’t want to take off and that you are going to get plenty of wear from. Coats in all shapes and guises but the key shapes to choose are: • Quilted coats but with big horizontal wide panels and hoods. • Waxed Barbers • Ponchos – forget the 1970s! • The classic wool Chrombie coat • Biker jackets in leather and faux leather • Faux sheepskin ‘Arthur Daley style!

Energy Firetrap beige quilted coat with fur trimmed hood £208 worn with Levis high waist skinny jeans £100

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Arch Label Agency Alice Temperley beautiful pale grey cashmere three quarter length coat £250 with black skinny jeans £40 from a selection

Attic Grey cable knit poncho by Esprit £75 Black skinny jeans £45 and Hobo style bag £50 both by Esprit

T&C Robinson Black Liberty ‘Beadnell’ Barber coat, comes in Dark Charcoal, Olive, Navy and Rustic £229

Seaweed Leather and jersey Biker jacket £190, worn with coated scarlet NYDJ (Not Your Daughter’s Jeans) from £119.95, Robin Scarf £14 Gabor Suede kneehigh boots £175 from Marcia May shoes

Lulu Pale grey Chrombie coat £269.95 Navy polo neck sweater worn underneath £44.95 both Inwear

A big thank you to Nancy for modelling.

Thanks also to Faith (Perch & Preen) for doing the gorgeous make-up.

Tel: 01572 755096 Photography by Elli Dean www.rutlandphotographer.co.uk

Stockists

Arch Label Agency – 10a Maiden Lane, Stamford Tel: 01780 764746 LuLu – 43 St. Paul’s Street, Stamford Tel: 01780 766675 Seaweed – 8 St.Mary’s Hill, Stamford Tel: 01780 767878

Energy Pepe faux sheepskin doublebreasted three quarter length coat £150 worn with Levis high waist skinny jeans £100 Attic – 33 St. Mary’s Street, Stamford Tel: 01780 766667 Energy – Ironmonger Street, Stamford Tel: 01780 765633 T&C Robinson - 4 St Mary’s Street, Stamford: Tel. 01780 755378 Marcia May Shoes – 41 St. Mary’s St, Stamford Tel: 01780 766608 STAMFORD Living november 2012

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• Exclusive Designer Jewellery Davina Combe Azuni Alex Monroe Daisy Knights Missoma Rodgers & Rodgers and many more • Original Gift Ideas • Bespoke Wedding Jewellery

WWW.PARADISEONLINE.CO.UK

Baubles and Bangles

Christmas gifts for all the family

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Christmas gifts for all the family

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Fabulous fashion, jewellery and accessories 2 New street Oakham 01572724177 10 St Mary’s Hill Stamford 01780763633 12 Orange Street Uppingham

Filofax Organisers

• SAVE 30% in November

Sequin Art Kits Brother MultiFunction

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From: £19.99

From: To: £4.49 £18.99

Complete Art Sets

A4 Printer, Scanner, & Copier

All you need to get started!

£59.99

£24.99

Leather John Adams Chair Craft Kits £69.99

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Paper Shredders

From: To: £4.99 £249.00

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Christmas gifts for all the family

Prestige Pens From Parker, Cross, Waterman & Sheaffer

Oscar Deskware From: £3.99 To: £19.99

SAVE £56 OFF RRP!

£6.99 •Stamford -1-2 St Paul’s Street & 39 High Street

I I •Oakham - 46 High Street •Oundle - 10 New Street O O M I O I O I I I I I I M Please I see www.colemans-online.co.uk for full branch details M

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20% O

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Cl Ot hin

Come and visit us at our

OPen weekend 1st & 2nd dEcEmbER Open 9:30am – 4:30pm

mens Womens Outdoor clothing coats Fleeces christmas Gift Ideas Wellieboots for all the family l

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Visit Our shOP in BArnACk

Barnack, Stamford. PE9 3DY Tel:

2 miles from burghley House

01780 740115

www.barnack.co.uk

www.wellieboots.com

FRE P EDrraize w

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ESSENCE of beauty STAMFORD

We are celebrating our first Birthday in November and we are giving you a present Fonts: Didot regular and italic For the month November book Mainoflogo a DARPHIN customised facial and

Book a Medi Spa Facial and receive a FREE 30 minute back, neck and shoulder massage.

Book any of our Decleor Facials and receive a FREE file and paint on either your hands or feet.

choose one of the complimentary treatments below: Back/Neck and Shoulder massage Custom manicure

20% OFF any Md or Decleor products purchased on the day.

Custom pedicure.

Offer available until 30th November 2012

The choice is yours.

Also, a BIG thank you to all our clients for the great support you have given us during our first year.

15 St Marys Street Stamford PE9 2DF Tel: 01780 763564 www.essenceofbeauty.co.uk

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Harley Street comes to Stamford

Facial Aesthetic Specialists and Skin Care Experts ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚ ❚

anti-wrinkle injections dermal fillers lip enhancements cheek augmentation collagen stimulants dermarollers chemical peels skin care clinic teeth whitening

GLAMOUR CHRISTMAS EVENT Thursday 22 November 6-6.30pm start Christmas Shopping in Style with Champagne and the Red Carpet Treatment.

Discounts, great raffle prizes and a free goodie bag.

Look and feel glamorous on the night with free make-up applications and hair dry styling.

Demonstrations featuring Clarins, Elemis, Great Lengths, Kerastase and GHD £10 booking fee, redeemable against products on the night.

Clarins, Elemis & Tigi Gift Sets available in salon now

Call 01780 752725 to book The George Hotel Mews

Excessive Sweating?

£75 OFF all hyperhidrosis treatments

Call us on 0844 800 8353 www.meliorclinics.co.uk

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Hea lth & Be auty

Beauty Gifts Genevieve Potter selects some gorgeously decadent gifts priced from just £8, for those who love to be pampered Caudalíe at Chameleon My vote for the best stocking filler this year goes to Caudalíe’s winter rescue pack from Aromatica; at just £8 its lip conditioner and hand and nail cream are the perfect duo for harsh winter days, and both contain antioxidant grape seed and nourishing shea butter.

For £28, the Divine Oil set comprises multi-use miracle oil for hair, nails, baths and massages, a beautiful candle and a mini cabernet scrub, containing six anti-cellulite essential oils.

• Chameleon, 5 St Mary’s Hill, Stamford PE9 2DP Tel: 01780 755405 www.chameleonboutique.co.uk Exceptional goodies at Equilibrium Equilibrium offer a fantastic “festive pamper” Christmas package (£60, worth £95), which includes a relaxing facial, back massage, fish pedicure, file and paint for the hands or feet and an Equilibrium goody bag. They also have some fantastic Thalgo gifts for all tastes and budgets; ideal for those who take skincare seriously, including the covetable “Exception” gift set (£125, saving over £100 on RRP), containing a great selection of ultimate antiageing products.

• Equilibrium, 7 St Paul’s Street, Stamford Tel: 01780 757579. www. equilibriumstamford.co.uk www.facebook. com/equilibriumstamford Beautiful Bare Minerals at Body Care Bare Minerals are launching a range of Christmas gifts for 2012 which are all designed to get you partyperfect in a matter of minutes.

Favourites are: Scene Stealer A four-piece collection which will create dramatic metallic black eyes and opaque, high impact raspberry lips, it even comes with its own eye make-up remover for on-thego changes (£26).

Buxom time to shine For ladies who love their lippy, this is a six-piece collection of colours which can be layered and glide on without any stickiness at all. The lip polishes and creams have plumping ingredients and vitamins to deliver a cool tingling sensation whilst nourishing the lips (£26).

Fab in a flash If you really only have minutes to spare, this is a great little kit for only £15. It gives definition to your eyes with flawless definition volumising mascara, round the clock waterproof eyeliner and natural lip gloss, for high shine.

Body Care, 7 Ironmonger Street, Stamford PE9 1PL. Tel: 01780 480777

A cult classic at Aromatica Salvatore Ferragamo fragrances are synonymous with classic Italian style and the latest fragrance for women, Signorina, is floralfruity, with a warm mixture of petals and spices; rose, lily of the valley and pepper, making it a perfectly feminine gift set. Eau de Parfum and body lotion from £39.

• Aromatica, 8 High Street St Martin’s, Stamford PE9 2LF Tel: 01780 753443

on RRP) including soothing after shave fluid and clean skin scrub, Alguaromes toning bath and shower gel and Aromessence Homme • Emma Cannings, Stamford Garden Centre, Great Casterton, PE9 4BB Tel: 01780 766583 www.emmacannings.co.uk Four for £50 at Body Matters Dermalogica salon Body Matters are situated within Westside Gym and offer an indulgent, two hour, £50 package (saving up to £27), which the recipient can mix and match to suit their needs.

Choose one: • Full Body Massage • Full Body exfoliation and back massage • Customised Facial • Microdermabrasion Facial Choose one: • Half leg wax • File and polish Hands • File and polish Toes • Eyelash and Eyebrow tint Choose two: • Eyebrow wax or tint • Lip wax • Bikini wax • Eyelash tint • Body Matters Stamford, Westside Health Club. West Street, Stamford PE9 2PN, Tel: 01780 481096 www.bodymattersstamford.co.uk A treat for both of you!

Gerard’s of Stamford offer a great range of naturally derived Aveda grooming sets from only £18.75 and with every gift set purchased during the month of November, when you mention Stamford Living you’ll also receive a voucher for a free nail file and paint to be taken during January 2013.

• Gerard’s, George Hotel Mews, Stamford PE9 2LB Tel: 01780 753002

Perfect packages at Emma Cannings If you’re searching for a gift box that looks truly impressive, look no further than Decléor at Emma Cannings. The collection is sprinkled with gorgeous little gifts like a gold bedside jewellery holder and a leather book-mark for men. Top gifts from the range are: A relaxing coffret £42 (saving £11 on RRP); with system corps moisturiser, relax intense shower oil, balm and scrub and a bath “flower” An anti-ageing coffret £71.50 (saving £60 on RRP); with its cult experience de l’age rich cream and eye and lip cream and, Aromessence iris oil A men’s skincare collection £32 (saving £22 STAMFORD Living november 2012

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

Podiatry and Aesthetics

The name has All changed but Feet Fit For Weathers the service the same - Rainremains or Shine!

Chiropody/Podiatry Chiropody / Podiatry Treatment for •• Treatment for Various Various Skin Skin&&Nail NailConditions Conditions Hard Skin Skin Removal •• Hard Removal Painful Corns •• Painful Corns Verruca Treatments Treatments •• Verruca Simple & •• Simple & Casted CastedOrthotic OrthoticDesign Design Diabetic Foot •• Diabetic Foot Care Care Budget Toe Toe Nail Nail Cutting •• Budget Cutting Free Foot Foot Care Care Advice •• Free Advice 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 Milia [Milk Spots) Spots] Thread Veins Veins Thread Common Warts Common Warts && more More • Free Consultation Plus Free Consultation •Gift Vouchers Available

For further information, call Paula on:

01780 766991

10 High Street, St Martins Stamford, PE9 2LF

Formally InStep Clinic

Bring your friend to meet our specialist

Xmas Consultation Clinic

29th November 7pm till 9pm £10 per ticket Redeemable on the night

• Xmas Gift Ideas • In Depth Colour/Cut • Consultation • Hair Up Ideas • Brazilian Blow Dry Specialist • Kerastase Specialist

Drinks and Nibbles on the Night

Model School Wednesday-Saturday £7.00 Cut & Finish & Colours from £15.00

3 Red Lion Square, Stamford 0844 999 3365 - www.browns-hair.co.uk 18

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Advertisement Feature

Private Psychological Therapy Service

Johan Truter

Chartered Clinical Psychologist Specialised in treating the following areas: • Low self esteem and loss of confidence • • Anxiety, panic and stress • • Depression, low mood and despair • • Phobias, obsessions and ruminations •

Caci Ultimate at Elysia Look your very best with the award winning facial treatment this winter and party season.

www.psychologistuk.co.uk For further information please contact

01780 758556

Orion House, 14 Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE

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

Improved No Needle Mesotherapy Trial offer

£35 during November

www.renaissancebeauty.co.uk

C

Special offer on teeth whitening October & November

ACI’s award winning treatments use the very latest pioneering technologies and have been voted the most effective anti-ageing treatments available. The result of over 2 decades of research, the noninvasive treatments can deliver dramatic, visible results, without the need for surgery.

The CACI Ultimate machine at ELYSIA is the most advanced of its kind. Treatments can be tailored to suit the individual but, the system treats lines, wrinkles, eye area, sagging skin, skin blemishes, scarring, acne, dehydrated skin, stretchmarks and cellulite. It gives a radiant skin on the face but can also treat hands, neck, buttocks, legs, tummy and bust.

Results are apparent after only one treatment with softening of lines and wrinkles and lifting of face. Your skin feels tighter, firmer and smoother. Results are even better 24 hours later. For lasting results a course of 10-15 treatments is recommended followed by a top up every 4-6 weeks.

“My top beauty tip is a facial treatment called CACI. Once you’ve had a few sessions you look like you’ve had a face lift”, Michelle Collins, Actress.

“If you have a party to look perky for.. try a course of CACI facials to plump skin and diminish fine lines” Martine McCutcheon During November and December 2012 ELYSIA Health and Beauty are offering amazing discounts on courses booked. Courses must be booked and paid for in advance.

Please call for details.

• Elysia Health and Beauty, Tansor, Oundle 01832 226328. www.elysiahealthandbeauty.com

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Creative Portrait Photography.

Bump to Baby and beyond...

A2B Pilates TASTER SESSIONS Tone up for Christmas Stamford Starts 5th November 9.30 - 10.30 Monday 5 week course

Please call for more details on 01832 275390 or 07710 780854

01780 757 310 07768 338 689 info@jpdolbyphotography.com www.jpdolbyphotography.com

Spray Tans and Nubar Gel Polish now available as well as all our regular treatments 13 Church Street, Empingham, Oakham, Rutland

01780 460528

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L OCA L NE W S

UPDATES Sleep Wool, Sleep Well!

The Wool Room on Star Lane in Stamford is the second store opening for Chris Tattersall, the Managing Director, the first having opened recently in Morpeth, Northumberland. The decision to open in Stamford was a carefully considered one since Stamford has a long history of wool trading, dating back to the 14th Century.

The Wool Room has been running for three and a half years and was born out of the vision of H Dawson, the Wool Room’s sister company and one of the leading wool merchants in the world, which wanted to change the way the world sees wool products.

However, all this is set to change with the introduction of The Wool Room’s “Sleep Well, Sleep Wool” mission statement, which aims to bring wool products into the modern marketplace and back into people’s consciousness, remembering why past generations relied on it. As Chris states: “We passionately believe that products made from wool fibre can help us all live a better, healthier and happier life. We are proud to support UK farmers in achieving fair-trade wool prices.”

Wool is a natural, eco-friendly, renewable source, which when used in bedding has the ability to regulate heat and humidity, making you neither too hot nor too cold. This characteristic combined with The Wool Room’s ‘secret ingredient’ allows all their wool products to be machine washable, which really has attracted new customers.

“I love my “wool bed” - it’s a sheep hug!”

“Bliss. As far as I am concerned the geese can keep their feathers - I go with the sheep every time”.

There are also some great gift ideas too from sheep money boxes (why should pigs get all the money?!) to Herdy mugs that are loved by many a Lake District walker.

So pop in, have a browse and let The Wool Room reveal the secret of wool by inviting you to snuggle down on their wool bedding.

• The Wool Room, 8 &9 Star Lane, Stamford, PE9 1PH www.thewoolroom.com

You and Beyond You & Beyond has recently been completely refurbished and is now the perfect space for purveying luxury branded jewellery, with a light, airy, stylish space and the back of the store now completely accessible.

The latest addition to the wide range is Swarovski, which has been in the store since the summer.

They are notable for high quality crystal pieces expertly cut. Other brands include Guess, Coeur de Lion, Ice Watches and Jersey Pearl.

Pandora continues to be a highlighted brand, and the most recent addition to the display area has been a stunning Thomas Sabo display unit.

There is so much choice now at You & Beyond, and excellent customer service, so you are bound to come away with a style that suits you, be it for yourself or a loved one.

14 St Mary’s Street, Stamford, Lincs, PE9 2DF Tel: 01780 755996

Sweet Sixteen Energy celebrates its 16th birthday this month.

It has throughout that period been one of Stamford’s liveliest, friendliest and leading fashion boutiques.

Part of the secret is the team. Sarah Sewell, the owner, started the business with minimal funds, building the rails out of old pieces of scaffolding and begging the suppliers to give her product on sale or return. From those humble beginnings she has built up a store which stocks a range of the most fashionable brands and is THE place to go for that perfect pair of jeans. She is ably assisted by Claire, who has been at the store for eight years and by Matt, who has been there for seven.

“We have always tried to understand what people want,” Sarah told SL “We always aim to be friendly and helpful, and never intimidate people with fashion rules. A lot of love has gone into this place…and I love it as much today as when I started it.”

• Energy Clothing, 9 Ironmonger Street, Stamford Tel: 01780 765633 www.energy-clothing.com

Personalised Christmas Cards Why not get Spiegl Press to turn a photo or drawing into a totally personal and unique Christmas card? They can scan a picture or use a jpeg to create your card. There is no minimum order quantity and you have full control over the message inside and size of card. The cards are printed on a quality greetings card stock and envelopes can be provided. Calendars also available. Prices from £15.

• Call Jo at Spiegl Press on 01780 762550 for more details.

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HEA LTH & BE AUT Y

UPDATES The Hair House expands The Hair House has recently been joined by two very experienced hair stylists, Marisa and Rebecca.

After 36 years of running her own business, Marisa had a yearning to return to the freedom of cutting and serving clients 100% of her time rather than being tied up in the paperwork of an organisation. “Now I can do what I enjoy doing all the time,” she told SL. “Cutting is my thing. I look at every woman individually and give them a cut that will express their personality and make them feel good.” She is joined by Rebecca, who has four years experience in the business, and is an expert on ‘hair up’ for special occasions, parties and celebrations.

Roger, the owner of the Hair House, told SL: “Marisa’s and Rebecca’s arrival have re-invigorated everybody, giving us new ideas and stimulus. They both love being part of the team.” Being in the Hair House always feels like being a part of Rebecca one big happy family.

• The Hairhouse, 7 St Paul’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2BE Marisa Tel: 01780 762687

Peterborough Cosmetic Clinic

We asked Peterborough Cosmetic Clinic to give us their ‘top tips’ for achieving flawless skin by Christmas, using their state of the art equipment. By starting the following treatments now your skin will be flawless and ready for the party season!

Specialising in non-surgical skin-rejuvenation procedures and techniques, it is very reassuring to know that Peterborough Cosmetic Clinic is under the qualified supervision of Consultant Zahida Butt MD, FRCS, FRCOphth.

The ‘Fractora’ treatment resurfaces, rejuvenates and restores the skin by reducing fine or deep lines, reduces red and brown spots and with only a couple of days downtime. This is achieved by using radio frequency energy that penetrates deep into the skin.

The ‘Fractora Firm’ also uses radio frequency and the energy stimulates the formation of new collagen. This is an excellent treatment for sagging skin, contracting the layers to tighten and lift.

For more information on these or other aesthetic treatments available please call the clinic administrator Jean Moore: • The Cosmetic Clinic, 226 Dogsthorpe Road, Peterborough, PE1 3PB Tel: 01733 310090 www.ukcosmeticclinic.com

Enjoy a CACI Ultimate treatment with Elysia

Caci Facials have enjoyed a good reputation for producing excellent results using non surgical face and body treatments. The most advanced Caci treatment is The Ultimate which takes just under two hours and includes a variety of treatments, including microdermabrasion, face toning, light therapy and skin rejuvenation. I tried a session, and it is very relaxing; even the microdermabrasion is done using a comfortable gliding action. This helps to remove the superficial layer of skin to help remove blemishes, scarring, sun damage, fine lines, wrinkles and congestion. The treatment follows with facial toning using tiny electrical impulses that firm and tone sagging facial muscles and smooth the skin. Therapist Lisa Claypole explained the probes used are filled with serum to enhance the tightening effect.

The results are impressive even after one treatment - lines are softened and skin is lifted and taut. For lasting results a course of 10 treatments is recommended with a maintenance session every four weeks.

Lisa has just introduced the Caci Treatments to her salon, Elysia Health and Beauty in Tansor, and has some fantastic introductory offers for a course of Caci treatments, starting at a 20 minute Hydratone treatment, to the Ultimate Anti-ageing course.

• For more information contact Elysia Health and Beauty in Tansor, tel: 01832 226328 www.elysiahealthandbeauty.com

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Reminder –

Brown’s Consultation Clinic

Thu 29 Nov 7-9pm Get some new ideas for your Christmas look by coming along to Brown’s Christmas consultation evening. Take a look at hair-up ideas, try a new look, buy some Christmas gifts, enjoy a glass of bubbly with a friend. £10 per ticket, redeemable on the night.

Browns, 3 Red Lion Sq, Stamford Tel: 0844 999 3365

Perfect Eyebrows, Permanently

Our eyebrows frame our eyes and emphasise our facial expressions. Loss of eyebrow hair is very common and can happen for a number of reasons. Therefore sparse BEFORE hair is often concealed using brow pencils and eye makeup, but the result is very temporary with an unnatural appearance.

Permanent make-up, AFTER micro-pigmentation and cosmetic tattooing, is a high quality treatment performed to create and enhance eyebrows shaped to your requirements and to conceal conditions such as alopecia with natural perfection and subtlety.

Hypoallergenic pigments are selected to match and enhance your skin and hair tones to provide a natural shape and colour to your eyebrow; and then implanted into the skin. Treatments can then be repeated annually to maintain natural shape and colour to the eyebrows. The result is a very natural eyebrow that will not smudge or rub off during your everyday activities.

For the alopecia sufferer and those with sparse eyebrow hair this treatment does away with time consuming application of cosmetic make-up and can be life enhancing as holidays, sport, swimming and the gym are no longer a constraint!

Carolyn Claypole has been a micropigmentation practitioner for over 8 years, offering treatments for the alopecia sufferer recreating eyebrows and also qualified in treatment to recreate the areola of the nipple following breast reconstruction.

• For more information visit: www. carolynclaypole.com or call 01780 766991 for a free consultation, Toe-Tally Clinic, 10 High Street, St. Martin’s, Stamford, PE9 2LF

STAMFORD LIVING NOVEMBER 2012

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Brand New.....

Sue and The Hairhouse are delighted to welcome Marisa and Becca, formerly from Marisa’s in Scotgate.

Marisa

Becca

36 years at “Marisa’s” in Scotgate. I like to treat every client as an individual and look forward to welcoming clients new and old.

I have been hairdressing over 4 years and am a great all round stylist with lots of new ideas.

.....We’ll make you feel brand new at Our team of exceptional stylists will help to make you look and feel your absolute best.

Roger

Danielle

Nikki

Leanne

Tracey

Salon owner with a wealth of experience.

I have over 7 years experience and I love cutting, colouring, and working with wedding and party hair.

I’ve been with the salon for over 10 years and love all aspects of hairdressing, including hair extension work, wedding hair, colouring and have also had my work featured in magazines and shows.

I’ve been with the salon for nearly 12 years.

I am highly sought after, with exceptional colouring and cutting techniques. My work has been used in many magazine fashion features and shows.

I have 30 years experience in all aspects of hair styling, including work for local magazines. I enjoy keeping up with all the latest trends and fashions – I am sure I can create a new look for you.

Still ahead of his game in creativity and enthusiasm.

The Hairhouse, 7 St Paul’s Street, Stamford, Tel: 01780 762687 Open Monday to Saturday plus late evenings

Stockists of 23

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• Bespoke Upholstery • Fabric • Linens • Curtains & Blinds • Paint • Wallpaper Using traditional hand finishing techniques to produce beautifully restored items of furniture and home decoration

The Black Bull, Stamford Walk Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 2JE T: 01780 754 605 E: enquiries@hworksdesign.co.uk W: www.hworksdesign.co.uk

Stamford’s only stockist of Little Greene Paints & Wallpapers 24

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Guaranteed Personal Service from a Local Family Business

FREE FITTING Windows, Doors, Patio Doors, French Doors, Conservatories, Car Ports, All Weather Canopies, Patio Awnings, Fascia & Guttering, Roller Garage Doors, Roller Shutters, Sliding Grilles, Security Bars, Steel Shutters, Shop Fronts, Domestic and Commercial Systems, Mesh Grilles, Venetian Blinds, Vertical Blinds, Roller Blinds

FREE ENERGY UPGRADE

NEW SHOWROOM 67 South Street, Stanground, Peterborough Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm

Telephone 01733 342888 www.manorwindows.net

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Des ign Int e r ior s

Achieve the

Bathroom you desire DESIGN & BUILD

For a professional and organised approach to bathroom design, Hunters Interiors, based in Uffington, offer the whole package. Starting with measuring up your existing or new bathroom area, they can help you decide what pieces you need, then produce scale drawings of your bathroom in a layout that will work.

Following that, they provide a tailored selection of sanitary ware, showers and other items to choose from, aiming where possible to source products from Stamford Bathrooms and other local suppliers; then they provide an estimate.

Hunters will design a scheme that includes tiles, lighting, window treatments, even towels and mats. They use their own local tradesmen with whom they have built up good relationships and they liaise with them on and off site. They respond promptly to enquiries and will create a design and plan to suit your home and budget.

If you like to gather ideas and inspiration from showroom displays, Jacksons has numerous well-designed schemes set-up in the showroom. Their massive range of bathroom suites includes Ideal Standard, Kohla, Heritage, Sanitan, Utopia and Venetian. You can buy individual items for collection or delivery but they also offer a free measure and design service, and can supply and fit your complete bathroom including tiling and lights.

You may have browsed the inspiring NGI Design showroom on St Martin’s but did you know that they also create stylish and distinctive bathrooms? Using some of the finest

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Let your imagination go wild! Create a perfect place of relaxation or a functional room with flair. Charlotte Newby searches out the local experts who will help you achieve the bathroom you desire

suppliers from around the world: Victoria & Albert, Laufen, Kaldewei, Dornbracht, Hidrobox to name but a few, NGI will help you to realise the bathroom of your dreams. From initiation to completion, the design and installation team will take over the full management of your project, promising attention to detail and unrivalled quality of finish.

Stamford Bathrooms on St Peter’s Street is well worth a visit too. The range on display is surprisingly wide: everything from bathroom suites (Ideal Standard, Shires, Vitra, Roca and more) to showers (Aqualisa, Mira, Ideal Standard) and enclosures, taps to towel rails, fitted units to tiles. Their very personal service includes design and measuring, plus a full installation service including electrics, tiling and plumbing. Owner Gordon Knox has been in the business for more than four decades, so you know you’ll be getting advice from a seasoned expert.

For inspiration, go and take a look in the rather glamorous and sparkly Porcelanosa showroom in Peterborough. The floor tiling will make you want to tile your house throughout, and in terms of contemporary bathroom layouts and fittings you are really overwhelmed with choice.

They offer a free measuring and CAD design service and sell everything for bathrooms and shower rooms to include tiles, shower fittings, taps, shower trays and enclosures, baths, basins, loos, cabinets, furniture and accessories.

They don’t offer an installation service, but do have a list of recommended tilers and fitters.

Head over to Kettering, to The Bathroom Store where they have 40 displays of contemporary and classic bathroom suites, shower enclosures, steam cabins, wet rooms, whirlpools and bathroom furniture. The store supplies these plus tiles, lighting, under floor heating, bathroom TVs, cabinets and mirrors.

Their brands include Villeroy & Boch, Jacuzzi, Vitra, Novellini amongst many others. You can take advantage of their in-store planning and design service and they will jointly manage your overall project with their reputable bathroom installers who will undertake all works including building works if required, plus plastering, tiling and electrics.

For a bespoke, luxurious, hand built bathroom, whether you are planning a traditional design to fit your period home, or a contemporary room incorporating the latest technology, VelaCici, based in Harlaxton near Grantham, can turn your dreams into reality.

From design to manufacture in their own

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factory, through to completion of the project, VelaCici work with you to create a bathroom space that is unique to your home. To see the quality and diversity of their work, visit their showroom.

If you have a fitter lined up, are buying individual items or are DIY-ing, then you can buy everything you need from Bathroom Collections, an online shop based in Bourne.

They offer a massive selection of well-known brands for your bathroom at very competitive prices (and they price match) – everything from bathroom suites to vanity units, under floor heating to towel rails, shower trays to wastes and fixings. And they promise to offer a reliable courier delivery service. This is a good place to shop if you consider yourself a judicious shopper.

TILES WITH STYLE

Rutland Tile and Stone Ltd has a new showroom in Oakham supplying a comprehensive range of tiles for walls and floors: ceramic, porcelain, glass, mosaic, travertine, limestone, marble and slate. It’s a perfect place to see and feel the tiles for yourself. Brands on display include Porcelanosa, Classical Flagstones, Enki Glass Splashbacks, H&R Johnson, Laura Ashley, and hand painted tiles by Decorum. There are styles and prices to suit all tastes and they offer a professional fitting service.

LIGHTEN UP CJ Carpets and Lighting on Scotgate is run by husband and wife team Simon and Cathy Cahill. Simon has 12 years experience in the trade and is always on hand to give sound advice. The upstairs lighting showroom has a superb range of contemporary and traditional bathroom lights and LED-lit mirrors on display by well-known brands such as BC Designs, Dar and Franklite. Simon can recommend a trusted electrician if required.

BATH & BODY

Bring warmth to your bathroom with plush towels from Chez Soi in duck egg blue, soft cream and bright white. They also stock a colourful range of towels and bathrobes by Cath Kidston for adults and children.

Treat yourself to a selection of luxurious bath products from Sinclairs: bath foam, candles and body cream by di Palomo, soaps, scrubs and lotions by Crabtree & Evelyn, perfume, shower and body cream by Lalique, and products from Bath House in rather exotic sounding flavours such as ‘Spanish fig and nutmeg’ and ‘Indian ginger and orchid’.

WE LOVE

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MOST GLAMOROUS WETROOM Luxurious walk-in shower room with bronze pilasters, designed and made by VelaCici

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CLASSIC & CALM Charming bespoke panelled bathroom with English Limestone and fitted with chrome taps and accessories, by VelaCici.

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MOST PLEASING TAP Understated and easy on the eye, Arola tap by Ramon Soler, through The Bathroom Store, Kettering.

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DIRECTORY Bathroom Collections, 0845 463 0218, www.bathroomcollections.com Chez Soi, 26-27 High Street, Stamford PE9 2AY, 01780 482845, www.chezsoionline.co.uk CJ Carpets & Lighting, 53 Scotgate, Stamford PE9 2YQ, 01780 754825 Hunters Interiors, The Dairy, Copthill Farm, Deeping Road, Uffington, Stamford PE9 4TD, 01780 757946 www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk Jacksons, 48 Scotgate, Stamford PE9 2FX, 01780 764782, www.jacksonbc.co.uk/branches/Stamford NGI Design 4, 5 & 6 High Street, St Martins, Stamford PE9 2LF, 01780 766 899, www.ngidesign.co.uk Porcelanosa, Dukesmead, Werrington, Peterborough PE4 6ZL, 08444 818957, www.porcelanosa.com Rutland Tiles and Stone Ltd, 23 Midland Court, Station Approach, Oakham, Rutland LE15 9RA, 01572 724533, www.rutlandtileandstone.com Sinclairs, 11-12 St Mary’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DE, 01780 765421, www.sinclairsonline.co.uk Stamford Bathrooms, 31 St Peter’s Street, Stamford PE9 2PF, 01780 489289, www.stamfordbathroomsltd.co.uk The Bathroom Store Kettering, Unit 7, Vista Park, Telford Way Industrial Estate, Kettering, Northants NN16 8AS, 01536 485085, www.thebathroomstorekettering.co.uk VelaCici, Harlaxton Business Park, Main Road, Harlaxton, Grantham, Lincs NG32 1HQ, 01476 579950, www.velacici.com

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COOLEST FOR COLOUR Freestanding bathroom accessories in rainbow colours, by Bathroom Origins, available through The Bathroom Store, Kettering.

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ILBAGNO..ONE CONTEMPORARY SMOOTH A sleek, uncluttered scheme ‘IlbagnoAlessi One’ by Laufen. Products available through NGI Design.

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BUS INES S AWAR DS

Enter the Local Living Magazines Business Awards 2013 Many articles have been written during our working lifetime extolling the beauties of Stamford and Rutland. However, over that period there have been major changes in the area and it has become clear that there is much more to the district’s fine buildings, warm stone frontages and quaint alleyways than is apparent to the casual visitor A thriving local economy

Categories

Amongst the 2,500 registered businesses in the area there is an enormous diversity of size, type and activity level. From major international players employing hundreds of staff in the engineering, science, retail and manufacturing sectors to local sole traders who, during the last several difficult years, have used their initiative to go out on their own and put their knowledge and skills to work for themselves and their families. Think of any job you need doing in the home or at work and there will be a local technician who can solve your problem.

Most of these people will never make a million or become a household name but each one has shown a degree of enterprise that is to be admired.

Add to that the region’s wide range of businesses in the service and business operations sectors and it can be seen that the area has an enormous amount to celebrate.

The area boasts an employment rate of 75.2% almost 5% above the UK’s average which provides over 28,000 residents with jobs, helping maintain the economy of the area.

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: • 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

New awards To help the community celebrate the region’s businesses and their achievements Local Living Magazines has joined with local events company, Essence Event Solutions Ltd, to launch The Local Living Business Awards 2013. These awards will be open to all local firms no matter what size or sector in which they operate.

The Judging Panel The judging panel will be chaired by Miranda Rock, House Director of Burghley House which had over 100,000 paying visitors to the house and gardens last year and close to another 400,000 over the course of the year to special events inside the park.

She will be joined on the panel by Denise Thompson, HR Director, Cummins Generator Technology Ltd; Damien Goldsack, Local CEO, NatWest Bank; Nicholas Rudd-Jones, Director, Local Living Magazines; Steve Envis, Chairman, Rutland Federation of Small Businesses and Ian Leech, Vice Chairman, BGL Group.

To find out more about the panel please see the Judges’ biographies on the web site www.localliving-business-awards.co.uk/judges

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

The Customer Focus Award is the only award where nominations will come from your clients and customers. To ensure your company gets the recognition for this hugely important business area there will be nomination forms available in the January 2013 Stamford and Rutland Living magazines (available from the 28th December 2012), on the Awards web site and email forms can be requested by emailing nicky@essenceevents.co.uk. Let your customers know you need their support by asking them to nominate you!

Gala Dinner Awards Ceremony The awards will be presented at a Gala Dinner held at Barnsdale Lodge Hotel on Wednesday 20th March 2013.

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THE CAPABILITY YOU’D EXPECT AT AN INTEREST RATE YOU WOULDN’T

Discovery 4 at Representative 6.9% APR

On the Road Price (incl. Metallic Paint) £38825

Over 120 global awards including five consecutive WhatCar? Best 4x4 titles attest to the Discovery 4’s supreme capability.

Improvements for 2012 models include a new 8-speed automatic transmission featuring Drive Select and PaddleShift. Now available with Freedom Finance at Representative 6.9% APR.Call us today to book a test drive.

Customer Deposit

Marshall Land Rover Peterborough 7 Mallory Road, Boongate, Peterborough PE1 5AU Telephone: 0844 334 9068 www.peterboroughlandrover.co.uk Retailers also located at Bedford, Cambridge, Lincoln and Melton Mowbray

£9597

36 Monthly payments

£499

GMFV (Optional Final Payment) (Includes £295 fee)

£15961

Amount of Credit

£29228

Total Amount Payable by Customer

£43522

Duration of Contract

37 months

Rate of interest (Fixed)

6.50%

Representative 6.9% APR

Representative 6.9% APR Land Rover Freedom is available on new Discovery models, registered between 1st July and 30th September 2012. Promotions are not available for used cars. Finance subject to status. Guarantees may be required. Land Rover Finance, PO BOX 4465, Slough, Berkshire, SL1 0RW. With Land Rover Freedom you have the option to return the vehicle and not pay the final payment, subject to the vehicle not having exceeded an agreed annual mileage (a charge of 12p per mile for exceeding 10,000 miles per annum in this example) and being in good condition.

OFFICIAL FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES FOR THE 2012 DISCOVERY 4 RANGE IN MPG (L/100KM): URBAN 28.8 (9.8) – 29.1 (9.7) EXTRA URBAN 34.9 (8.1) – 36.2 (7.8) COMBINED 32.1 (8.8) – 33.2 (8.5) CO2 EMISSIONS: 230 – 224 G/KM. 30

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MOT OR ING

Buying ‘older’ cars The recession and the continuing challenging economic climate is making drivers significantly rethink their motoring priorities. Ashley Martin reports

M

electric) likely to be ore used cars buyers Used car market facts chosen by 2% of motorists are turning to older • 6.7 million used cars were sold last year, up from 6.6m in 2010 and 6.3m in 2009 (down from 3% last year), cars - notably aged six to • The value of the used car market was a record £35.7 billion in 2011, compared to which perhaps suggests eight years and cars aged £35bn in 2010, and £6.7bn higher than the £29bn value of the new car market uncertainty over the longmore than nine years also • Sales of cars aged under two years fell by 9.5% to 642,000 units term cost viability of such continue to rise - as sales • Sales of cars aged three to five years fell by 6.2% to 1.73 million units models. of cars aged five years • Sales of cars aged six to eight years rose by 7.4% to 1.79 million Interestingly, there and under slip against a • Sales of cars aged over nine years rose by 7.5% to 2.53 million continues to be a potential background of high fuel • The average used car value in 2011 was £5,336, compared to £5,332 in 2010 mismatch between diesel prices, falling family income, • The average age of a car on UK roads in 2011 was 7.44 years, up from 7.25 years car supplies and demand employment uncertainty and in 2010 and 6.69 years in 2004. however - 51% of new a struggling economy.

Source: BCA car sales in the first eight Additionally, the dynamics months of 2012 are diesel of the used car market and significantly more in the company car in the report? For the first time on record, the are heavily influenced by the size and shape sector - while just 30% of potential used car ‘influence of family and friends’ (24%) is the of the new car market. Since the onset of the buyers say they will choose diesel next time. most important factor when motorists choose recession, a staggering 1,517,135 fewer new cars Looking ahead, the influential report a used car, overtaking ‘personal experience’ were sold in 2008-2011 compared with 2007 suggests that continuing economic pressures (21%) which has declined sharply in importance and that has impacted on the availability of and the double-dip recession are going to in recent years - down from 40% plus in preused cars. significantly change the type of vehicle recession years. ‘Independent internet sites’ Simultaneously, the value of ‘younger’ used motorists want to buy, but 50% will purchase are now rated third most important (16%), cars coming on to the market is rising due to their vehicle of choice from a franchise dealer. having moved up from fifth place last year. the age profile shortage. As a result, some Consumers are increasingly looking to buy Given the economic conditions, price remains consumers are opting to buy older cars. cars with better fuel consumption (27%) and the most critical factor for used car buyers, with The annual ‘Used Car Market Report’ lower road tax (20%). Additionally, a smaller 41% saying that would be their first priority, up published by vehicle auction giant BCA, which car (14%) is much more likely to be purchased by one point from last year. Low mileage is now has a centre in Peterborough, and written than a bigger car (2%) in the current economic the second most important factor for used car

by Professor Peter Cooke, of Buckingham climate. buyers at 31%, up three points and overtaking University Centre for Automotive Management, The economic downturn has also had a make/model which slipped five points to 30%. paints a picture of a used car industry evolving marked impact on the pattern of UK car When choosing a dealer to buy from, getting to deal with the changing economic landscape.

Tony Gannon, BCA’s communications director, a good deal (33%) and the ‘right car at the right ownership. While single car households have remained steady at 72%, multiple car families price’ (29%) are the most important factors, said: “With an ageing park of vehicles and are diminishing. Three car and more households says the report. Used car buyers also value limited supplies of younger cars available, both have fallen to 5% compared to 8% last year the opportunity to ‘trade-in’ and prefer to do dealers and motorists will have to get used to a and overall multiple car households are down business with a ‘local dealer’ (both at 19%). marketplace where the typical used car is both by two points, year-on-year at 27%. In 2008, Petrol remains the dominant fuel type, while older and higher mileage than has been the 31% of households had two or more cars. support for alternative fuels has fallen back, norm in previous years.” with hybrids and other alternatives (including So what are the emerging trends highlighted STAMFORD LIVING november 2012

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L OCA L NE W S

UPDATES See The Northern Lights Witness the extraordinary phenomena of the ‘Northern Lights’ this year…

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis to give them their proper name, are best seen between the Autumn and Spring equinoxes under a cloudless sky and during the dark Artic Winter nights when the comparatively weak light emitted by the Aurora is more easily seen.

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Oundle Travel is offering a 3 night break for the 2012-2013 season to Tromsø including return scheduled flights from Heathrow and transfers, breakfast and afternoon tea from £895.00 pp.

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• Tel: 01832 273600 www.oundletravel.co.uk

Jules by the Riverside Situated right next to the very beautiful Thierry Daugeron restaurant, this delightful little emporium has a great feel about it and a warming wood burner. It’s the sort of place you’d like to dwell awhile.

Julie the owner has relocated after 12 years in Loughborough where she built up a strong reputation for an exclusive array of jewellery and gifts. Through carefully handpicking pieces from leading designers within the industry she has created a collection that offers the most in terms of quality, affordability and most importantly style.

• Jules, The Bridge House, Wharf Rd, PE9 2DU Tel: 07967 785273 STOP PRESS: Thierry Daugeron at Riverside Café Opening Hours.

Mon-Sat 10-5, Sun 10-4, light lunches 11.30-2.30 every day

Tip Top Tip Top has just opened in Silver Lane, at the top of the steps leading up from the Beans Courtyard. It is a cornucopia of jewellery, candles, giftware and beauty products, with greetings cards and a wrapping service.

“It’s all in the family,” as Jon Duncan, the owner, told SL. “My Mum set up a Tip Top shop in Kingsbridge, South Devon, and it has been

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a great success. We wanted to replicate that here in Stamford, and it is an opportunity for my daughter Kim to run a business for the first time.” Kim studied make-up at Peterborough College and brings a strong design and fashion sense to the business.

• Tip Top, 4 Silver Lane, Stamford, PE9 2BT Tel: 01780 238002 www.tiptopstamford.co.uk

Fordham Kitchens refurbishes its showroom Mark Fordham is passionate about everything to do with kitchens. His knowledge is second to none and he will mastermind your project personally from first concept through design to installation and completion.

Mark has recently completely re-furbished his showroom with an emphasis on the Crown Imperial brand. “I find this range original and good value,” Mark told SL, “with curved shapes for end cupboards, a wide range of painted finishes and a good look overall.”

There are eight new displays altogether, with the main window display a glorious plum and oyster colour. Take a look, you will be inspired.

• The Show Room, New Road, Ryhall, PE9 4HL Tel: 01780 482892 www.fordhamkitchensltd.co.uk

Identity Stamford David Rudd-Jones discovers Stamford’s newest fashion store The brand new place to go in Stamford is a fashion shop called Identity. Newly opened by young entrepreneur Aidan, it is a brilliantly upto-date clothes shop for teenagers and young adults. Having worked in the fashion business before, he wanted to start up his own shop, which he has done expertly.

With brands such as Fred Perry, Toms, Vans and Franklin and Marshall, along with lots of other great smaller brands, you can find something in here to please anyone. It is the shop that the young people of Stamford have needed for a long time and fills the gap perfectly.

I would really recommend popping in to have a look and am almost certain that you will see something you want. I myself have already been drawn in by lots of the clothes there and have been pleased with what I have bought and the excellent service that is given. In my opinion one of the best shops in Stamford for young people.

• 40 St Paul’s St, Stamford Tel: 01780 752549 www.identitystamford.co.uk

STAMFORD LIVING NOVEMBER 2012

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18/10/12 14:20:19

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17/10/12 17:03:47 09/10/2012 13:29

STA MFOR D PE OPLE

Luke Morrison

Victoria Bullimore meets a courageous young man for whom ‘the glass is always half full’

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first met Luke Morrison at the car wash on Casterton Road. It was a hot day, and he was relaxing on the white plastic chair wearing nothing but a pair of shorts, sunglasses and ear-phones. A young, good-looking lad in his prime, he emanated pride in his peak condition, so much so that when I noticed that his left leg was missing from the knee down, it did nothing to change the picture of him. If anything it was enhanced, because I assumed straightaway that he was a soldier, one of the heroes we all read about. His body language shrugged a ‘so what’ attitude. I was intrigued and slightly in awe. So in the sure knowledge that he had dealt with scarier people than me I got talking to him. He was friendly, constantly smiling and agreed happily to an interview. A few weeks later, when he was back in Stamford on leave, he told me his story.

Luke always wanted to join the army, but he had his sights set on the Parachute Regiment.

He went on to New College from Casterton Community College and Malcolm Sargent Primary School, and began his initial training aged nineteen. Everyone knows the Paras are an elite, crack regiment, but when Luke told me that he was one of only four successful recruits out of an initial seventy, it puts it in perspective.

He was sent to Afghanistan in October 2010, after months of training that included six weeks in Kenya. I ask him about this training and how he was treated, and he replies with a cheeky smile and some colourful English to put me in the picture, and when I ask him to tell me how he lost his leg he talks about it in a relaxed and easy way, as if it happened to someone else.

It was February 2011. As a machine gunner Luke and another soldier were providing cover for mine sweeping engineers in a lane that was “safe but not secure”. Luke was kneeling when the undetected IED beneath him exploded.

He was thrown high enough in the air that he remembers seeing over the roof of the building next to him. When he landed he heard the shouts of his comrades who were calling out to him and for the medics. As he lay there, Luke tells me “I was checking myself over.”

“Did you feel anything?” I ask, trying and failing to imagine anyone having the presence of mind to search himself for injury in that situation.

“No, I couldn’t feel a thing at first.”

“Did you know how badly injured your legs were?”

“O, yeah. I could see my foot had been blown off.”

I feel winded just listening. As a mother of sons the scene I’m visualising is unbearable. “Do you have nightmares?”

He laughs. “No, I sleep like a baby.”

I ask him if his mental strength is a result of all the training, and he agrees in part that this has helped him to deal with the trauma, but he

also believes that how you recover comes down to what kind of person you are and the type of injury you’ve suffered. His smile fades for a moment when he tells me of the friends he’s seen coping with facial disfigurement and brain injury. He sees himself as lucky. “I can carry on doing all the things I did before,” he says, “this is a scratch wound”.

“A what?”

“That’s what we call it, if you lose a leg. It could be worse.”

It would be easy to dismiss this as bravado, but bravado is only skin deep. What Luke, and all the others like him, has is real courage. He feels he has no choice but to accept it.

“You’ve just got to embrace it,” he says, “it’s happened, there’s nothing you can do about it.

You’ve just got to crack on.”

Luke will be leaving the army next May. Despite his amazing recovery he is unable to continue on active service so now he’s working towards becoming a personal trainer based in Stamford, using his military fitness training as a model.

If he can’t inspire and motivate you to crack on, no-one will.

QUICKFIRE Do you like Marmite? No! I absolutely hate it!

What’s your favourite tipple? Vodka and Red Bull.

What was the last film you saw? 21 Jump Street.

Where were you born? Peterborough Hospital.

Tea or Coffee? Coffee. Definitely.

Bath or shower? Both.

Favourite track of the moment? Swedish House Mafia, “Don’t You Worry Child”.

Who would you most like to meet (dead or alive)? Elvis Presley. He was legend.

Do you support a football team? No. I support my leg, because my leg supports me.

• Ben McBean, Former Royal Marine and double amputee, is giving a talk on his experiences in Afghanistan at the Stamford School Hall on Friday 9 Nov at 7pm, with proceeds going to Rotary Charities including Help for Heroes. Tickets £10 from the Stamford Arts Centre Box Office.

• Remembrance Sunday this year is on Sunday November 11th STAMFORD Living november 2012

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STA M FOR D PE OPLE

Three leaders

of Stamford’s performing arts scene, in conversation Richard Barry listens as Nan Ingrams, Caroline Stephenson and Liz Underhill, discuss some key issues affecting their arts Who’s who?

Nan Ingrams (NI) is Leader of the Stamford Chamber Orchestra.

Caroline Stephenson (CS) is a Stamford Shakespeare Company Director. She directed Twelfth Night this year.

Liz Underhill (LU) is Music Director of Woven Chords, Stamford’s World Music Community Choir.

Issues The conversation lasted an hour. It covered eight issues that affect the orchestral, choir and theatre worlds in Stamford. These issues were: Dumbing down or sharpening up? Funding; Recruiting talent; Bringing on younger people; The Gareth Malone effect; Impact of the web and social media; Programming; Optimistic or pessimistic?

This article reproduces three of these issues.

The full conversation can be read on www.bestlocalliving.co.uk

THE GARETH MALONE EFFECT Is it true that Gareth Malone is having a big positive influence on the choral scene nationally? Is this ‘celeb influence’ noticeable in Stamford? Are their other celeb influences in other performing arts?

LU. Well, I did wonder, this is slightly my question! Choirs have experienced this tremendous upsurge just because of the television coverage of Gareth Malone which has been brilliant. I don’t think it will die down again either, because I think there are people out there wanting to sing but not knowing quite how to go about it. What about the other performing arts? I’m just wondering about

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Nigel Kennedy who -- some time ago, I’m probably talking about 20 years ago -- was a great role model for youngsters because he looked different, he looked like them rather than looking like a suit. I remember when my daughter was at Youth Orchestra stage, James Galway inspired thousands of flute players, they were just everywhere…

NI. Yes, it could be the ‘in’ instrument, or could be the ‘in’ voice, the ‘in’ thing to do.

LU. … So I just wondered if, I don’t know, whether David Tennant when he did Hamlet on the television, did it suddenly bring lots of people to…

CS. No, I don’t think so. I think you will always have children who will want to be the next David Tennant -- or whatever -- and they will go to the Youth Drama Groups, either ours or the other groups in Stamford. But I haven’t seen any change.

LU. No, but does it help to bring Shakespeare more in to a trendy focus?

CS. I don’t think so, no.

LU. But, I think Nigel Kennedy did do a lot for encouraging young people.

NI. He did…There’s Nicola Benedette out there now and other Young Musicians of the Year.

Unfortunately the Young Musician of the Year isn’t televised as much now, it’s marginalised.

RB. Why is that?

NI. I don’t know, is it on BBC4 now rather than BBC2.

CS. I think because they have so many channels they can have this specific sort of music / art / drama channel.

NI. So, when it was on BBC1 / BBC2 people used to see it televised live in the evenings. Now you have to hunt that down a lot more. So, probably you would have to be already interested in

classical music to find it because it is not on those main channels. But, there will still be younger artists out there that it will inspire.

LU. Yes, the rising stars CS. I think a similar question would be: when Henry IV and the whole history series was televised recently did it make people come to Tolethorpe this summer when we were doing Henry IV? I don’t think so. I don’t know. There is no way you can prove it either way. But the numbers didn’t suddenly go up after the broadcast.

LU. You have a hardcore of regulars.

CS. We really do and I don’t think television or Facebook or Twitter or any of these social medias has had any impact.

IMPACT OF THE WEB AND SOCIAL MEDIA Thank you Caroline. That brings us neatly to the question: what impact is the web -- in particular social media such as Twitter and Facebook -having on your performing art and its business?

CS. I think the web is different from social media actually. Our website and our ability now to book on line has been enthusiastically taken up. But Twitter and Facebook…..well, they are for a generation, I hate to say, that’s not ours!

And therefore, our average audience is unlikely to use them. Maybe another 20 years time we will have to look at it but...

NI. The younger players in our orchestra join the Stamford Chamber Orchestra Facebook…

CS. You have one..?

NI. We have one!

LU. Oh OK, impressive!

NI. For our younger players and our professional conductor -- they’re on it and that’s fine. But as a professional teacher I don’t join

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L to R: Caroline Stephenson, Nan Ingrams, Liz Underhill

the Facebook thing, so I don’t know whether it is just a player’s one. Whether the audiences join I don’t know but I doubt it; our audiences don’t consist of that age – at least not yet.

CS. I think we are the wrong generation to answer that question really.

LU. I suppose the website is different isn’t it, it’s a wonderful way of advertising what you do and people can trawl and find you CS. I booked The Globe, I booked Stratford, I’ll book Tolethorpe. We use it now don’t we?

All. Yes NI. We should advertise each other, why not?

We tried subscription concerts with a reduced fee, or ticket price if you like, if do the whole season. Some people took it up but not in their masses CS. We have a discount for seeing all three plays. Uptake is reasonable but who knows. I think, as you say, we have such a core interest LU. Yes, and we do too, which is the people connected with the choir. Most have a partner for a start and a lot of them have friends, cousins, aunts, uncles, whatever, who all come to our concerts and the rest are just people who find out about the performances in the brochure.

“I’m based at The Arts Centre so I know more about The Arts Centre scene than any other and I think it is just going from strength to strength really. It’s a very buzzy place.”

Liz Underhill OPTIMISTIC OR PESSIMISTIC? Finally, are you optimistic or pessimistic about the future of the performing arts in Stamford?

LU. Well, I’m very optimistic. I’m based at The Arts Centre so I know more about The Arts Centre scene than any other and I think it is just going from strength to strength really. It’s a very buzzy place. Yes, I think it’s just getting better and better all the time. Just look at the brochure.

NI. Yes, it’s crammed with things. They’ve got classical music, folk music, comedy, the cinema,

they’ve got all sorts LU. Yes, every nook and cranny is being used now. It’s a gem.

NI. I think I’m optimistic so long as everyone keeps on working at it. It won’t happen by itself.

RB. But will there be that drive and energy in the future, when you’ve gone – at least metaphorically -- to the grave?

NI. Yes, because we are getting younger players into the orchestra, we are getting younger people on to the committee.

CS. Well, I think you [RB] asked Jean Harley, didn’t you, to come today as our founding director but she retired in her 80s. She put her whole life in to the Stamford Shakespeare company. She was very very good at bringing on new people -- hence why I’m here, that was totally because of Jean. I hope that as I go through life with the company I will encourage people to come through in the same way. I think it’s difficult in your late 20s, early 30s when bringing up a family to give the time required. My family are now growing up so I have got the time. I’m optimistic that this will be passed on, that we will be aware, will encourage people, and will make sure that they get the opportunities they need in the company.

STAMFORD Living NOVEMBER 2012

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18/10/12 14:24:33

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17/10/12 17:04:50

ACT IVIT IE S

Peterborough to Lille on Eurostar

Photos: Fiona Cumberpatch

Lille, the capital of northern France, is just over an hour away from St Pancras International station. It makes a great destination for a weekend break, says Fiona Cumberpatch

“W

hy Lille?” asked a friend when I said that I was heading for the city for a weekend in the Spring. It’s true that it was once known only as a rather grimy industrial centre, but over the last 20 years the place has been transformed with a generous injection of government cash. Now, it’s all about bustling, cobbled streets, large cosmopolitan markets, antique shops, an excellent museum of art and, of course, some amazing food. But perhaps the biggest draw for me was that it is just a short train hop from St Pancras International, and no more expensive than going to York or Scotland for a break.

Stepping off the train at King’s Cross, into the newly revamped station (which looks very sleek), my travelling companion and I were in St Pancras International in a matter of minutes.

We checked in around half an hour before our departure and were soon heading to France. It just seemed so simple and stress-free.

We’d hardly had time to sit down and draw breath, than we were in Lille. We stayed in the 65 room Hotel Breughel, a five minute walk from the station, in a central location. It was a charming two star hotel, furnished simply but tastefully, with pretty antiques and old oil floral oil paintings. Our room was small, but very clean and perfect for a two night stay.

We were keen to explore, and, as it was a Saturday afternoon, the town was buzzing.

We were five minutes from the main streets, lined with shops such as Zara, Pinkie, Galeries

Lafayette, a large French department store, and many others. The streets are wide and elegant, and you can see the Flemish influence in the architecture, not surprising as Lille lies on the border of the Flemish part of Belgium.

There are a number of large squares, lined with cafés and bars. We headed for Vieux Lille, the old town, where there is a maze of streets, housing numerous designer boutiques and interiors shops. Here, you’ll also find the magnificent looking Theatre de l’Opera and the old exchange building or Bourse, now home to a browsable second hand book market.

Explore the town We went everywhere on foot, and enjoyed finding the landmarks, stopping occasionally to sip a cidre doux or a coffee at one of the many cafés. On Sunday, we headed to the vast Wazemmes market, a multi cultural mix of foods, flowers, clothes, bags and hardware, with a bit of a fleamarket thrown in. So many sights and smells, here, with stalls loaded with rosy radishes and fresh strawberries, chickens roasting on a spit, pastries, bread, herbs and spices. We enjoyed sorting through the junk stalls, emerging with a few treasures to take home. Time for some culture, and I was keen to visit the Palais de Beaux Arts, which is home to a collection of Dutch Old Masters paintings, as well as some Impressionists’ work, including Seurat and Vuillard. There is also a stunning collection of porcelain, and, in the basement, an

incredible series of scale models of the fortified cities of Belgium and France dating to the 18th century. We rounded off the day with coffee and cakes in the charming Le Café-Livres in the old town, where a loved up couple were reading poetry to each other in one corner, and a group of students were having an earnest debate in another. The friendly French owner was keen to get an English opinion on her chocolate brownies (they were really good!)

Monday was a very quiet day in town (warning: many of the smaller, quirkier shops are closed), so we browsed the department stores, and then had a great value lunch in a tiny French restaurant. Just ten euros bought us a set menu of three delicious courses, including chicken in a delicate sauce with sautéed potatoes, and home made crème brulee.

We headed for our return train, bags bursting with French goodies to eat and drink, safe in the knowledge that we’d back on home turf in just a few hours.

Travel information Eurostar www.eurostar.com Fares from £59£99 return, depending on when you travel Hotel Breughel, 5, parvis St-Maurice, 59000, Lille www.hotelbreughel-lille.com Le Café-Livres, 35 rue des bouchers, 5900, Lille Le Pain Quotidien (excellent bakery and breakfast spot), 35 Place Rihour, 59800, Lille STAMFORD LIVING NOVEMBER 2012

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HOM E INT E R IOR S

A Homemade Home

Create a fresh, budget-friendly interior with upcycled and repurposed items, as seen in this family house in Northamptonshire Words: Fiona Cumberpatch Photos: Lesley Anne Churchill

V

INTAGE style shows no sign of falling out of favour and it’s no wonder: inexpensive and accessible to all, it’s the perfect way to recycle and personalise even the most bland of interiors. This 1960s chalet-style house was unloved, with some ugly 1970s features and outdated colours when the owners moved in 15 years ago. But a passion for collecting and repainting has worked a radical change on the interior.

Old suitcases and leather trunks make great storage solutions and are a clever way to hide ga mes consoles and DVDs.

Create small ‘still life’ arrangements to avoid piles of random clutter.

These little la mps were car boot sale finds for just a few pounds.

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Scour charity shops, auctions and antiques fairs for colourful trimmings, lace and cottons to create your own soft furnishings. If you can’t sew, consider enrolling on a beginners’ course, or try a social stitching group to share ideas with like-minded folk. Stuy Porter’s Antiques Centre in Stamford hosts classes.

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18/10/12 14:26:29

Build your own unique tea set by collecting pretty cups and saucers whenever you see them. Mix vintage and new for an eclectic look. All you need to go with it is a home made cake and a pot of tea…

Instead of a coffee table, a sturdy old tin trunk does the job just as well. This one has been repainted and waxed.

Where to find vintage

Foxtail Lilly, 41 South Rd, Oundle. Tel: 01832 274593 www.foxtail-lilly.co.uk Owner Tracey Mathieson always stocks hand picked country style furniture and accessories, but on September 8th, she is having a Vintage Day, with stalls from different dealers. Open 11am-3pm, tea and home made cake available.

St Martins Antiques Centre, 23a High St, St Martin’s, Stamford PE9 2LF Worth browsing on a regular basis for furniture, pictures and curios.

Fabric remnants can be tracked down inexpensively in charity shops and at the area’s many antiques fairs (try Lincoln Antiques and Home Show for a vast selection). Making a an envelope backed cushion is simple to do - even if you can only tackle the easiest sewing projects.

Don’t be afraid to mix patterns, just stick to the same colour tones.

Stuy Porter Antiques, Broad St, Stamford www.vintagecountryliving.com Online shop for Gorgeous Authentic Vintage, 20th Century Art & Textiles, Decorative antiques and Homewares. Based in Stamford.

Antiques and Home Show at Lincolnshire Show Ground, Lincoln on December 3rd-5th. 2000 stalls. www.asfairs.com

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18/10/12 14:27:02

WRITER ’ S SPOT

City girl or country girl?

Antonia Scott reflects on the transition from country girl to city girl and then back again

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PICTURE BY ROWAN CLIFFORD

I

was brought up a country girl, idyllic childhood in a village where our family was known and stayed put for many years, going on bike rides, then pony rides accompanied only by my sisters – how times have changed. I was driven to school by my parents, no buses or train fares to worry about. There were shared school runs and after school clubs and life was easy and innocent.

Then I spread my wings, firstly to university, and then abroad, and then the heady lights of London called. I loved it, loved the noise, the people, the difference, the strangeness, the “no set rules” individuality of everyone. It felt unknown and at times unsafe, yet I knew my limits and at first never really ventured out of the supposed comfort of Zone 1, but I was officially a city girl. I got a parking permit and learnt to master Marble Arch in third gear. I could speed walk the length of the King’s Road in my lunch break. I was anonymous and it was refreshing.

Then I met a guy, a Scottish guy who loved rugby and I happened to be working in Twickenham with a lot of English rugby guys.

We were the cliché, we got engaged, I showed him the countryside where I grew up with my ponies and dogs, cats, guinea pigs, rabbits and goldfish and he accepted it was a huge part of what made me, me. So we got married in the church, next to my parents’ house, where my big sister seven years previously had also got married. Half the guests were English, half Scottish and my Welsh father! Everyone loved rugby. It was beyond perfect.

18 months later we can call ourselves parents and my baby is a Londoner, born in Chelsea no less. I return to the rugby world for a bit, with another bump! Then we talk and talk about what to do. I don’t want another London baby, we are bursting out of our little flat and I want to smell the grass after it’s rained and get a dog and never have to take the tube again. I want to not feel vulnerable or live up stairs. I want my own front door and not have to park my car 3 streets away. I don’t want my neighbours to say “It’s nice to put a face to a scream” when they meet my baby boy for the first time and he’s 7 months old.

I want to go home. I want to nest. I want to be near my parents and school friends and have big, open spaces. I don’t want my son’s first words to be “car” and “taxi”. So I win!

One month later, I have a Peterborough baby. The midwife knows my father, so does the nurse and the breastfeeding counsellor and the nice man who takes my blood pressure and signs my second precious bundle out of the maternity ward and into our new (estate!) car. I see my new home, my old home, as somewhere I can feel safe. I have come home. My surname might have changed, but people recognise my face and stop and talk. They seem genuinely

“I want to smell the grass after it’s rained and get a dog and never have to take the tube again” interested. My family tree’s branches spread back and reach so many more people than I realised. Everyone knows everyone.

My husband is still a city boy and dips his toe into the big, bad smog of London for his pollution fix, and I’m happy that he’s happy and he’s happy that I’m very happy. And we muddle along for another year. And then I have another Peterborough baby and it’s the same midwife and she recognises me which makes me cry.

And I love being a suburban girl.

Two sleepless, busy, noisy years go by. My Scottish husband gets some wellies and they finally get some mud on them. We get a dog and we walk and walk and walk and our London friends visit and talk about “outside space” and “roof terraces”. I take a train and visit my little

sister who has just had a London baby and I see myself in her stage of life. Her excitement as she starts on the journey we made a few years previously. And there’s a flicker of the city girl back. I marvel that I can see so many people in such a short space of time. And I laugh with my London friends and wear heels and totter and take a cab because nobody drives! And they say they miss me, that I look well, that country air suits me.

So I return to my home and get a job, a proper job like I used to have when I was a city girl, but now I’m a country girl, dressing like a city girl and really rather loving it.

I want some kittens, one for each of my babies, but I haven’t won that battle yet.

Small steps for the city husband.

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ESSENTIAL

WEDDINGS at Burghley House THE REGION’S FINEST DESIGNER WEDDING SHOW

November 4th

10am - 4.30pm

Professional Catwalk Show featuring Bridal, Mother of the Bride, Groom, Pageboy, Bridesmaids and Wedding Guest.

Main catwalk show will run at 10.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm & 3.30pm Preview & Designer interviews running in-between the main catwalk shows – come and meet the UK’s top designers SAMANTHA DICKINSON – Vintage Jewellery Designer KATE HALFPENNY, BOND STREET, LONDON – Famous for Vintage & Classical bridal designs SASSI HOLFORD – British bridal designer TERRY FOX – Couture bridal designer MARTIN CHARLES COUTURE – fabulous regional designer based in Oundle.

RACHEL SIMPSON – one of the UK’s top shoe designers AOIFE HANNAN – celebrated Irish milliner

SHOW VIDEO ON WWW.ESSENTIALMEDIAEVENTS.CO.UK TO SEE HOW STUNNING THIS WEDDING EVENT TRULY IS.

To purchase tickets (£5 per ticket, 4 for 3 if booked in advance, or £6 on the day) please book online with www.burghley.co.uk or www.essentialmediaevents.co.uk or by telephoning 01780 765320

In Association with

Please note that the 4 for 3 ticket price offer is not available through the Burghley website.

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Photography: Ellie Dean www.rutlandphotographer.co.uk

Stunning goody bags for the 1st 500 registered brides Glass of bubbly & canapés at catwalk show 95 exquisite hand picked exhibitors Classical firework display to close show

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UPDATES Nature Matters in Stamford Stamford Arts Centre 15th-17th November

Paul Norton

Nick Rickett

Norton Rickett Estate Agents Nicholas Rudd-Jones met with a new upper end estate agent that brings a freshness and realism to the market A new independent estate agent, Norton Rickett, has opened in the region, experts in the sale of Town, Country and Equestrian Property.

The two founding Directors of the business are Paul Norton and Nick Rickett. They were previously at Carter Jones in Peterborough and between them have over 35 years’ experience in the local market. They took the decision to set up on their own when for strategic reasons Carter Jonas decided to concentrate their residential business into Cambridge and Northampton. They are joined by Louise Fox as a negotiator.

I visited them in their light and airy new offices at Grange Farm, just south of Wittering, and found a team that was very approachable, forward-looking, realistic and knowledgeable about the market.

They will be selling Town, Country and Equestrian properties of architectural merit which offer ‘lifestyle’ possibilities for the purchaser. Their geographic reach is from Wisbech in the east to Sleaford in the north, the Rutland borders in the west and the A14 to the south. They already have an impressive list of properties on their books, which can be viewed on their website.

“Our goal,” Paul told me, “is to achieve the best for our clients. Being independent makes us more fleet of foot and allows us to tailor our marketing to each and every property that we have on our books; presenting a property in the best possible way, but also being realistic about what is achievable. Our knowledge of the market and our continuing links with the Carter Jonas Mayfair office mean that we can bring properties to the attention of the largest possible number of qualified buyers.”

• Norton Rickett Ltd, Wittering Grange Cottage, Leicester Road, Wansford, PE8 6NR T: 01780 782999 www.nortonrickett.co.uk

Divorce or Separation – Is Capital Gains Tax Due?

On marriage breakdown dividing up your finances and property can be very complicated and seem overwhelming, particularly when you may be feeling sad, angry and anxious about the future, but it’s important not to put off organising your financial affairs. Garry Wiles of Stephenson Smart & Co offers the following tax advice.

Sometimes after you separate, divorce or dissolve a civil partnership there will be a need to transfer assets between partners as part of any settlement arrangements. It is possible that these asset transfers can give rise to a capital gains tax liability, therefore advice should be taken prior to any transfers of assets being made.

The amount of capital gains tax falling due, if any, will depend on a number of factors, including when in the proceedings the asset transfer takes place and the type and value of the assets concerned. By keeping an accurate record of when you purchase assets, their original cost and any subsequent enhancement costs you will be able to accurately calculate any capital gain arising and capital gains tax liability falling due.

• For further advice on tax and divorce, contact Stephenson Smart & Co on 01733 343275 or visit www.stephensonsmart.com

The fourth annual symposium convened by New Networks for Nature will be coming to Stamford this month. After their first visit to the Arts Centre for last year’s gathering, the participants liked Stamford so much they have chosen to come back.

This is a real bonus for the town: an array of distinguished scientists, poets, naturalists, artists, birders, musicians and writers will meet together here for entertaining and thoughtprovoking sessions spread over three days.

Book your place to join these creators, thinkers and activists whose work is inspired by wildlife and landscape.

Highlights include an interview with the celebrated author of Akenfield Ronald Blythe, presentations by artist Bruce Pearson, poet Ruth Padel, and writers Jim Perrin and Conor Jameson.

There will also be an ‘Any Questions’ style session on the politics of nature conservation, chaired by the Independent’s environment editor Mike McCarthy, with panellists Mark Avery, Simon Barnes, Peter Marren, Peter Melchett and Dame Fiona Reynolds.

• Check out: www.newnetworksfornature.org.uk

Winter Wonderland

At the East of England Showground Peterborough Christmas comes early to the area on 17th and 18th November, when the Winter Wonderland is presented at the East of England Showground Peterborough.

The festive event will be held in the heated halls of the Peterborough Arena and will feature everything from a traditional fun fair through to an ice rink, as well as choirs, a brass band and a wide selection of festive food and gifts on sale.

The star attraction will of course be Father Christmas himself, who will be in attendance on both days, complete with real live reindeer.

There really will be so much to see and to start your Christmas plans in real festive style.

• Admission on the day is £8.00 adults, and £5.00 children (5 -16) under 5s are Free. Discounted tickets can be obtained in advance from SEE Tickets on 0844 995 9674 at £6.00 adults and £3.00 children… car parking is FREE STAMFORD LIVING NOVEMBER 2012

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FASHION

The new Jack Wolfskin range at Rutland Outdoor Not heard of Jack Wolfskin? Well here’s the low down on one of the biggest brands in the Outdoor market, which was founded in 1981 Mens – Gecko Fleece Pullover “basalt” £39.99 and Lakota Vest “shadow black” £84.99

Womens – Kodiak Jacket “lamb” £74.99 and Activate Pants “black” £69.99 Mens – Lakota Vest “shadow black” £84.99 and Activate Pants “granite” £69.99

J

ack Wolfskin develops products for people who love being outdoors, who have fun getting exercise and discovering new things, who appreciate the countryside and treat it with respect. The products are characterised by a high degree of functionality, user-orientation and innovation. The German brand has successfully launched a wide range of marketleading materials and new products, and holds multiple patents for clothing, backpack and tent technologies.

Womens - 5th Avenue Coat “coffee brown” £189.99

Womens – Chogori XT Down Jacket “aubergine” £134.99 Mens – Chogori XT Down Jacket “olive brown” £134.99

Jack Wolfskin is stocked by Rutland Outdoor based on the North Shore of Rutland Water.

Richard Johnson, the category Manager there, comments: “Here at Rutland Outdoor, we are all really impressed and excited by the new Autumn Winter clothing range, which spans from tee shirts and base layers to fleeces and jackets in various guises, covering both technical and casual everyday wear. We are sure that you will feel the same!” www.rutlandoutdoor.com Whitwhell Leisure Park, Bullbrigg Lane, Whitwell, LE15 8BL Tel: 01780 460 705 Mon - Fri: 09.00 -17.30; Sat/Sun: 09.00 - 18.30 Womens – White Rock Jacket “Baltic blue” £214.99 and Activate Pants “black” £69.99 Mens – Soft Cell XT Jacket 3-in-1 “black” £209.99 and Activate Pants “black” £69.99

Womens – 5th Avenue Coat “coffee brown” £189.99 and Activate Pants “black” £69.99 Mens – Lakota Parka Jacket “granite” £199.99 and Activate Pants “black” £69.99

Photography: Elli Dean www.rutlandphotographer.co.uk

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bringing kitchens to life...

Bespoke Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms

Est

1981 - 31 Years

!

Festive Lunches

£25 for 2 courses or £30 for 3 courses Available from 1st December.

New Year’s Eve 1920’s style party £99 per person for 4 course dinner and dancing.

FITTED KITCHENS FROM £6,000 RANGEMASTER DESIGN CENTRE WITH OVER 20 RANGE COOKERS ON SHOW

Showroom with 32 of the latest room settings The Maltings, Barnack Road, Stamford, PE9 2NA

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

www.qksstamford.co.uk

The William Cecil at Stamford Tel: 01780 750070 www.thewilliamcecil.co.uk

NEW AUTUMN/WINTER RANGE IN STORE NOW!

OPEN 9AM - 5:30PM

At Whitwell, Rutland Water Whitwell Leisure Park, Bull Brigg Lane, Whitwell, Nr. Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8BL

01780 460 705

WWW.RUTLANDOUTDOOR.COM facebook.com/rutlandoutdoor @rutland_outdoor

HATS - JACKETS - BASELAYERS - TROUSERS - FOOTWEAR - GLOVES - BAGS - TENTS - ACCESSORIES 47

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For over 30 years Hambleton Hall has been one of the region’s favourite Michelin starred fine dining destinations.

Christmas Parties at Hambleton Hall Hambleton Hall has a wonderful Private Dining Room – ‘The Study’ available for parties of 6 – 16 guests

Canapés 3 Course Dinner followed

by Coffee & homemade Chocolates £50.00 per person No charge for room hire.

Special Bedroom Rate £230.00 Based on 2 people sharing one of our standard double bedrooms, includes full Hambleton breakfast & vat.

Menu Salad of Crab, flavoured with mango & lime leaf *** Free Range Turkey cooked in a salt crust pastry with traditional accompaniments *** Chocolate Truffle flavoured with olive oil, baked banana, pistachio sorbet & salted caramel *** Coffee & homemade Chocolates

To take advantage of this special room rate, a minimum booking of 3 bedrooms per party is required

All menus are subject to a discretionary service charge of 12.5% Excluding Christmas & New Year.

For more details about our Special Breaks and Events please visit our website www.hambletonhall.com

hambleton, oakham, Rutland, le15 8th t: 01572 756991 e: hotel@hambletonhall.com W: www.hambletonhall.com

Festive Lunch

Available from 1st - 23rd December Enjoy the relaxed elegance of Stapleford Park while you celebrate the Christmas season with friends and family.

Indulge in a Festive lunch from £25.00 per person for three courses. Our selection of dishes include roast parsnip and nutmeg soup, roast Norfolk turkey with traditional accompaniments and Christmas pudding served with brandy anglaise.

With delicious food and fine wines to look forward to, everyone can soak up the festive joy at Stapleford Park.

For further information or to make a reservation, please contact Reservations on 01572 787019 or email reservations@stapleford.co.uk

A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Stapleford Park, Stapleford, nr. Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire LE14 2EF

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UPDATES

Golden Pheasant, Etton Nicholas Rudd-Jones and Helen Walton met with the new owner of this delightful country pub and tried out the food

The Golden Pheasant, just past Helpston, is a beautiful Grade II listed Georgian house converted into a pub in the 60s. The new owners, George and Ann Marie Sakkalli, have brought some new twists to the pub but have retained all that has always been good about it – the relaxed ambience, the local drinkers, local beers (Hopshackle, from Market Deeping), the 7-day a week lunch and dinner opening hours.

We arrived on a sunny autumn lunchtime, and the gorgeous local stone was bathed in sunlight. Outside there is a marquee for larger parties and a huge play area for kids. You feel you are in the middle of the country although it is only a few miles north of Peterborough.

Before the meal proper we tested out their ‘small plates’, which are a recent innovation – really designed for that hunger occasion somewhere between two packets of crisps and a sit down meal that hits us all from time to time. We chose a mix of sliced scotch eggs, hummus with pitta bread and sticky chicken wings. Almost a meal in itself, so we didn’t quite finish it.

For starters we then tried sautéed mushrooms in a creamy stilton sauce and home made chicken liver paté with tomato chutney – both distinctive and enjoyable.

Anne Marie describes their aim as to cook “comfort-style dishes really well, home-made and using local ingredients and seasonal dishes wherever possible.” And the mains certainly reflect this. Helen enjoyed a Thai Green Chicken Curry, whilst I wolfed down the perfect fish & chips with mushy peas. The specials are typically more adventurous, for example ‘local pheasant poached and roasted with shallots and a parsnip cone’.

The Children’s menu is very sensible; straightforward fayre, all home

The Cosy Club celebrates its first Birthday The Cosy Club is a year old this month. SL spoke to Steve Mantle, the Deputy Manager, who has been there since the start. “We are delighted with the first year of business,” he told us, “and we now have a really established team that consistently delivers. The building and décor have proved very popular and suitable for so many different occasions – mums with buggies in the morning, office lunches, friends for afternoon tea or a great night out.

Cocktails have always been a strength of the Club and with the festive season approaching they have re-introduced Fred Collins Fizz, English Bride and Winter Elixir to add to the buzz. And ‘The Mess’ upstairs has proved very popular for private parties. We wish them all the best for the future.

• The Cosy Club Stamford, The Old Delivery Office, Horseshoe Lane Stamford PE9 2RB Tel: 01780 767710

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cooked, great value at £3.95; and what a nice touch, a glass of milk included on the drinks, and re-fillable fruit squash.

There is also a lighter Lunch and Early Dining Menu, which includes dishes such as a Ploughman’s Lunch, Omelettes and Ciabattas.

We met with the Head Chef after the meal, the energetic and very committed Sabrina Rayment-Catanese. Of Italian ancestry and trained in Peterborough, she told us: “I love playing with textures and flavours; I could spend all day in the kitchen dreaming up new recipes.”

All in all, this is a place that delivers what people want – always open for meals, many different and flexible menu offerings, good value (a meal for two would typically be around £40 including drinks) and a good understanding of what kids want.

• 1 Main Road Etton, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE6 7DA 01733 252387 www.thegoldenpheasant.net

Don’t Chalk in class please Claudia Bayley describes her experience on a furniture paint workshop Last week, I had the extreme pleasure of joining the first Annie Sloan Chalk Paint workshop at Chalk and what a delight it was! I’m more convinced than ever that it’s a wonderful product and if you haven’t tried it yet, you might want to give it a whirl. Emma and Jane were lucky enough to meet Annie Sloan recently, who was only too happy to pass on her wealth of wisdom and it was clear that they are both extremely passionate about her products.

Jane was our teacher for the day and her love and knowledge of the paints shone through. Her Art degree is certainly being utilised to its full potential! We had a busy three hours during which we learnt all the basic paint techniques for ‘reloving’ old, tired furniture with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint.

‘Hands-on’ practice on sample boards, has given me the confidence to apply the techniques to any project. We tried out Abusson Blue with Dark Wax to get an aged patina, crackling techniques and two colour distressing with Cream & Paris Grey.

I was amazed to learn that Annie Sloan Chalk Paint can be used on almost any surface without the need for priming or preparation. The paint has an almost limitless range of possibilities!

• Workshops are suitable for beginners and those with a bit more experience. The cost is £65 per person for a 3 hour workshop and includes all materials and refreshments. A 10% discount on all Annie Sloan products given on the day! To book call Chalk on 01780 752414

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• Open 365 days a year, serving delicious food lunchtimes and evenings with a good range of real ales and fine wines • CAMRA gold award 2010 and Cask Marque recognition • Marquee available for any celebration from weddings, birthdays, christenings to corporate events.

Beautiful Freehouse Georgian bar and restaurant located in the picturesque village of Etton.

Live Music!

Every Saturday night during Nov from 8.30pm Visit our website for other music events & evenings

The Golden Pheasant 1 Main Road, Etton, Peterborough, PE6 7DA Tel: 01733 252387 Email: info@thegoldenpheasant.net www.thegoldenpheasant.net

FirEworks spEctacular

Sat 3rd November

Watch Guy Fawkes go up in smoke on our huge bonfire, followed by a stunning firework display. Live bands will add to the fun!

Christmas 2012

Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday throughout December our Marquee Christmas menu allows friends, colleagues and family to book a table in our marquee, enjoy the Christmas fare and bop to live entertainment and DJ Party. If you prefer to dine in the restaurant or are a smaller group, our Christmas restaurant menu is available lunchtimes and evenings during December.

Open as usual for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day lunch and Boxing Day.

New Year’s Eve

See 2013 in with style and a knees-up.

We have a delicious carved buffet to get the party going through the night.

Hurry to book your marquee places!

We are also open New Year’s day.

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Christmas Parties

Christmas Festivities at The Crown Hotel, Stamford

• • • • •

Christmas Party Lunch from £16.50 to £20.95 per person Christmas Party Dinner from £19.95 to £24.50 per person Christmas Day, Champagne on arrival and four course lunch at £75.00 per person Boxing Day, Festive à la carte New Year’s Eve, Champagne on arrival and four course dinner and dance £69.50 per person • New Year’s Day – Back to normal! à la carte menu and home comforts

Christmas party rates are dependant on the day of the week.

To make a booking call 01780 763136 and ask for Sally.

All Saints’ Place, Stamford, PE9 2AG t. 01780 763136 sally@thecrownhotelstamford.co.uk www.thecrownhotelstamford.co.uk

Christmas Festivities at The Exeter Arms, Easton-on-the-Hill • • • • •

Christmas Party Lunch from £16.95 to £21.00 per person Christmas Party Dinner at £25.00 per person Christmas Day, Champagne on arrival and four course lunch at £75.00 per person Boxing Day, Festive à la carte, home comforts and pizza menu New Year’s Eve, Champagne on arrival and three course dinner and house party £35.00 per person • New Year’s Day – Back to normal! à la carte menu, home comforts and pizza menu Christmas party rates are dependant on the day of the week.

To make a booking call 01780 756321 and ask for Anna or Linda.

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

Christmas Festivities at The White Hart, Ufford • • • • •

Christmas Party Lunch at £22.00 per person Christmas Party Dinner at £25.00 per person Christmas Day, Champagne on arrival and four course lunch at £75.00 per person Boxing Day, Festive à la carte and home comforts New Year’s Eve, Champagne on arrival and three course dinner and house party £35.00 per person • New Year’s Day – Back to normal! à la carte menu and home comforts To make a booking call 01780 740250 and ask for Matthew.

Main Street, Ufford, Stamford, PE9 3BH t. 01780 740250 info@whitehartufford.co.uk www.whitehartufford.co.uk

Let us make your Christmas one to remember this year. Book early to avoid disappointment!

For all enquiries please contact the relevant establishment, details of which are above.

All Saints’ Hotels Ltd. All Saints’ Place, Stamford, PE9 2AG t. 01780 763136

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FOOD & DR INK

Give a Gift of Cooking Why not give an experience rather than a ‘thing’ as a gift this Christmas?

Sarah Lyon looks at cookery class gift vouchers

Gift tag a retreat day: Like with food we need to nourish our body with some rest and relaxation.

Bridge 67 Cookery School – Retreat to the countryside for a day and enjoy the rural surroundings of school and farm running alongside each other. The school started in 2006 with Jill Vickers teaching from her farmhouse kitchen, and has expanded this year with a move into a brand new purpose built specially designed teaching kitchen. Jill’s husband John loves to take cookery students for a tour around the farm encouraging all to buy British, local and seasonal produce. With an option to purchase home produced lamb and beef.

Vouchers are £130 each, cover all courses and valid for 12 months.

Binleys Bridge Farm, Smeeton Westerby, Leics, LE8 0QD, Tel: 0116 2796155, www. bridge76cookeryschool.co.uk Gift tag a new skill or a whole new career for someone you love: Like food, life-changing decisions have to be properly digested and thought through.

Trial a course at School of Artisan Food – Get back in touch with real handmade food from practical classes (one day or weekend) to professional training sessions and advanced Diploma qualification. Full Diploma students are taught practical application with 30% of the course concentrating on the business side whilst also exploring aspects of food anthropology (overview and insight into food and culture).

Vouchers are valid for one year from date of purchase and can be redeemed against any short course or specific event or courses.

The Welbeck Estate, Nottingham, www. schoolofatrisanfood.com, Tel: 01909 532171

Gift tag a new skill and a desire for home cooking: George Bernard Shaw famously wrote, “There is no love sincerer than the love of food.”

The Cambridge Cookery School – Food for Life course for teens and young adults (university students) creates a solid foundation in a full range of cookery skills essential for future health and happiness. Students learn how to cook simple, cheap but delicious food; how food affects wellbeing, fitness and brain power; how to shop smart and budget for a week’s food; how to be eco-friendly and an ethical cook.

Gift vouchers for this and other courses (for children and adults too) are very popular and can be purchased for use against an individual course or a series of courses.

Contact Tine Roche, Unit 9D The Imre Building, Homerton Business Centre, Purbeck Road, Cambs, Tel: 07531 521633, www. cambridgecookeryschool.com Gift tag a present that will be the gift that just keeps on giving! : Food for thought with Virtuous Bread; a catalyst for social change.

Virtuous Bread – Based in London (Leicester and Norfolk with Rosie Clark) Jane Mason’s Bread Home Bakers course or Bread Angels course teaches how to set up and run your own home baking business where the course is held over three days or sometimes at a weekend.

A range of breads is made with the emphasis on good local ingredients. Jane offers bespoke

bread events for groups and half day and one day courses i.e. her Sourdough Bread course (£125.00 per person). The perfect gift for people who don’t need anything or who would prefer an experience to a thing!

Half day bread baking course £60.00; check website for similar courses or book out an entire class of six people for a party or get together, group thank you gift or any other event.

Contact Jane Mason (London) www. virtuousbread.com, Tel: 07711 267278 or Rosie at rosie@virtuousbread.com (Leicester).

Gift tag inspiration and confidence in the kitchen: Recipe for success: Take a bunch of people, a bounty of seasonal fresh ingredients peppered with fun and enriched with the skills of a flamboyant chef.

Stamford Cookery School – French born owner and chef Thierry, along with an exciting line up of guest chefs, offer day courses for folk of all ages who want to learn to cook, improve cookery skills or purely to reconnect with home cooking for the family.

Vouchers are available for a large variety of classes; day, half day and evening courses.

Alternatively you can book hen parties, birthday, team building and Christmas parties.

Brownlow Street, Stamford – Tel: 07773 800804, www.stamfordcookeryschool.co.uk

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The

BomBay Cottage Exclusive Indian Restaurant Special Party menu (available for individuals and groups) Choose the different dishes you like from our menu or we can tailor make a menu to your individual requirements (example below)

PaPadam & Pickles

Festive Lunches £20 for 2 courses or £25 for 3 courses.

Available from 1st December.

starters mixed Kebabs - Chicken Tikka,Tawa Prawns, Sheek Kebab, Lamb Chops. selection of mains 4 Different main Dishes (medium, mild, hot): Chicken Tikka musalla, Chicken Tikka Jhalfry, achar Goshi-Ka-Salon, Prawn Dupiaze. selection of sides 3 Different Side Dishes: Bombay Potatoes, Spinach Bhajee, mushroom Bhajee.

Selection of Nan Breads - Plain, Peshwari, Keema, Garlic Rice - Pillau & Plain Rice £14.00 Per Person or without starter £10.95 Per Person or 20% off your food bill (minimum sPend £30) offer available from 1st Nov to 31st Dec - must state Party menu when booking table

Take away available - 10% discount on take-away orders.

Free delivery up to 5 miles

SuNDay SPECIaL BuFFET LuNCh 53 Scotgate, Stamford, PE9 2yG - Tel: 01780 480138/482551 order online: www.thebombaycottage.com

The Bull & Swan at Burghley Tel: 01780 766412 www.thebullandswan.co.uk

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EATING OUT

RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS The Bombay Cottage

Sally Stillingfleet went with her family to try out the Sunday Night Specials Having eaten at the Bombay Cottage many times and always enjoyed it very much, I have concluded we have never been very daring with our choices; always playing safe with my favourite Chicken Dansak and the obligatory Lamb Madras for Nick. A meal with friends on a Sunday night (a night off from cooking a roast!) proved to be an eye opener to the delights of the Specials!

Our regular curry friends, Emma, Richard and Phoebe agreed to join us.

Of course an Indian meal is not complete without popadoms and pickles always fresh and with a full pickle tray!

We chose three starters to share, vegetable Samosa £3.10, BombayChat-Pati £4.50 and the Chicken Achari £3.95. Everything was fresh and perfectly cooked, no grey peas in the samosa here! We particularly liked the thick sauce of the Chat-Pati, described as a roadside favourite of Bombay; it’s a meal in itself, thick tasty sauce and good for vegetarians too.

Phoebe and Hannah had to have Chicken Korma, both agreed it’s the best in the area, large chunks of chicken and a nice thick sauce.

Ellie opted for Chicken Biryani and all girls agreed they might try that next time, as it was so good. Emma and I tried on recommendation from Habib (the owner) Tandoori Duck Shugondi,

duck not being an obvious Indian choice but we both agreed it was delicious, the sauce again zesty and came with a duck carved out of a tomato.

Richard had the Zaflongi Murag - a hot and spicy chicken dish, served on a bed of spinach. He made it very clear he was not going to share it (just like in Gavin and Stacey!) Nick opted for the Sylhety Chicken, which he allowed us to try! This was one of our favourite dishes, very fresh and full of lime flavour. We had Sag Bhajee sides and of course Peshwari Nan bread.

Although full we still had time to sample the Orange and Lemon Delights, citrusy sorbets within carved-out fruits and a cute ceramic honey pot filled with honeyed nutty ice cream. Habib and his team are always helpful and happy to recommend trying different dishes. Main courses range from £6 - £11.90. We are always going to return here and be more adventurous from now on, any excuse to skip the roast dinners!

• 52 Scotgate, Stamford, PE9 2YQ Tel: 01780 480138 www.thebombaycottage.com

Candlesticks Restaurant Nick Ellis and his girlfriend Laura returned to an old favourite that is one of Stamford’s best kept secrets Now in its 38th year of business, this relaxed and welcoming restaurant shows us why it is still going strong.

A few years back now when I first met my girlfriend Laura, she recommended one of our first meals out would be at a restaurant I hadn’t heard of, Candlesticks which is on Church Lane behind the George. Since that first meal we have been regulars, and each time we visit it is more enjoyable than the last.

It’s not just the warm welcome you receive from Nelio Pinto and his staff when you arrive that makes it special, but also the unique setting, the great food and the incredible wine list that are all elements which create a great night out.

The Pinto family is originally from Madeira, (Portugal), and they stay true to their roots with the food they serve. For our starters we sampled fresh Portuguese sardines, cooked very simply in olive oil, and a Portuguese speciality of baked eggs, potato, and cheese sauce. After the starters had settled, Nelio recommended to us a fantastic bottle of ouro velho (another Portuguese speciality), an incredible red, with a taste of spice and vanilla, maintaining a balanced flavour with good complexity. As we were having seafood and steak for our mains, this was a brilliant choice.

Our mains arrived in good time, and with fresh vegetables served to us at our table. My choice was something I wouldn’t normally go for, Crepes de fruit de Mer thermidore, pancakes filled with a preparation of mixed fish, seafood, onions & peppers and served with a mustard, brandy, cheese and cream sauce. They were fantastic and went perfectly with our wine choice. Laura went for a simpler choice – Steak café de Paris, prime steak cooked in a sauce of tomato, onion, garlic, anchovy essence, wine and brandy. The steak was cooked perfectly and melted in the mouth, and the sauce was a perfect accompaniment, not too over powering, but with enough flavour to lift the steak.

After a requested, much needed, rest we headed to dessert. Being very full I opted for something light, so chose Meringue with fresh strawberries, whilst Laura decided upon home made Crème Caramel. Both desserts were the perfect finish to a perfect meal; we had our coffee, said our goodbyes and headed home, very content and very well fed.

Candlesticks is one of those restaurants you never leave hungry or disappointed, and at £21.90 for a 3 course meal, including coffee, you really can’t go wrong.

• Candlesticks Hotel and Restaurant, 1 Church Lane, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 2JU Tel: 01780 764033 www.candlestickshotel.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING NOVEMBER 2012

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27 High St, Swayfield Nr Grantham, NG33 4LL T. 01476 550 415

THE ROYAL OAK AT SWAYFIELD. A WARM WELCOME AWAITS.

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estled beautiful The Rock Grillin is the a fun, TRY OUR NEW of Swayfield, healthy,village interactive ‘ROCK GRILL’ the Royal Oak is the dining experience that quintessential English inn with gives you complete beamed log burner fire, real control ceilings, on how your ales, fine wines & fresh bean coffee. meal is cooked.

Presented thenew table We welcometoour chef, David Graveling who has a on volcanic rockssourced, freshly cooked food and has passion for locally heated to 440°c, yourworked in the region for the last 10 meal maintains all its years, more recently at the Jackson natural juices, nutrientsStops, Stretton and The Orangery at & flavours, whilst you Burghley House. Cook your steak to perfection at your table! cook it to perfection. l

WE PRIDE OURSELVES ON OUR SERIOUSLY GOOD FOOD

Lunch & dinnerOF menus A MINIMUM 3 REAL ALES, ALL KEPT AT THE HIGHEST STAND OF EXCELLENCE available, including our bar CEILINGS, LOG FIRE, GAMES ROOM & SKY TV snackBEAMED and Rock Grill menu l

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5 LUXURY EN-SUITE ROOMS

WWW.ROYALOAKSSWAYFIELD.CO.UK

Tel: 01476 550 415

www.royaloakswayfield.co.uk

Having a Christmas Party?

Bookings now being taken for the festive period

Festive Dinner Menu – 2 Courses £16 Bookings only. Please pre order one week before function date Starters £5.95

Soup of the Day, Warm Bread Duo of Melon, Mulled Wine Caramel, Tangerine Sorbet Chicken and Duck Liver Pate, Red Onion Marmalade, Granary Toast Smoked Haddock, Pea and Spinach Risotto, Parmesan Shavings Leek, Gorgonzola and Sun-blush Tomato Tartlet, Watercress and Glazed Walnut Salad

Main Courses £11.95

Roast local Turkey, Apricot and Rosemary Seasoning, Grasmere Chipolata, Pan Gravy, Cranberry Sauce Grasmere Belly of Pork, twice roasted, Apple, Red Onion and Sage Compote, Cider Jus Fillet of Grey Mullet on a bed of Tiger Prawns and Potato Gnocchi, Red Pepper Coulis Pan-Fried Duck Breast, Bubble and Squeak Mash, Blackberry Reduction Slow Roast Brisket of Beef, Horseradish Mash, Duo of Stilton Sauce and Pan Gravy Tart-Tatin of Red Onion, Butternut Squash and Goats Cheese, Tomato Relish

Desserts £5.95

Traditional Matured Christmas Pudding, Cognac and Vanilla Sauce, Rum Buttered Fruits Traditional Crème Brulee, Cranberry Shortbread Chocolate Trio – Brownie, Baileys Profiterole and White Chocolate Icecream Winter Spiced, Chilled Poached Pear, Mulled Wine Sorbet, Fruit Coulis Cheese Board, Celery and Grapes, Biscuits, Home-made Gamekeepers Chutney

Book before the 1st December & get 10% Off Festive Menu Festive menu starts from

November 28th – December 30th (not available on Xmas Day or Boxing Day)

Boxing Day Menu 5 courses - £39 (Bookings now being taken)

27 High Street, Swayfield, Nr Grantham, NG33 4LL (25 minutes north of Stamford)

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EATING OUT

DELICIOUSLY DIFFERENT The 8848 Nepalese Restaurant Nepalese Cuisine comes to Stamford and Nicholas Rudd-Jones was amongst the first to take a peek Let’s start by taking you out of your misery and explaining why the name 8848? Well, it’s the height of Everest in metres. So now that’s done we can concentrate on what this exciting new restaurant has to offer.

The 8848 has recently opened on the north side of Broad Street, in a beautifully restored building which combines elements of modernity and tradition most successfully. It is part of a small family chain of Nepalese restaurants in the UK that have established themselves as amongst the best of their kind, and voted best Nepalese Restaurant of the Year for the last four years. The Nepalese Ambassador to the UK no less came to the opening night. There is a Head chef designing the overall menu who is expert at what he does and very creative, which is reflected in a menu which has many, many distinctive points vs. ‘your average Indian’.

Nepalese food is influenced both by Indian and Chinese cuisine, which makes it a culinary melting pot of the Indian sub-continent. Eating here is truly a taste experience.

We started with Chilli Chicken, Tandoori Lamb Chops and Momos. Momos are a lamb dumpling

with piquant tomato chutney and very much a Nepalese speciality. My companion declared these to be the ‘best she had ever had’ (and as she could also speak a bit of Nepalese, I couldn’t doubt her expertise in this matter).

For the mains we focused on the Nepalese dishes – Hariyali Lamb, Lamb Bhutuwa and Chicken Lasun Khursani, tender pieces of chicken cooked with fresh green chillies, garlic and spring onion. Accompanied with pilau rice and tarka daal (lentils cooked with mild spices, very much another Nepalese speciality),we had a feast full of flavour and varied interest. Oh, and I forgot to mention – this course came with a delicious Keema Nan bread flavoured with spicy mince meat – an absolute winner.

Being full, we were planing to pass on dessert, but Krish Bhetuwal, the restaurant manager, insisted we try a small cup of rice pudding each, infused with cardamom, and boy we were glad we did. Very indulgent and at the same time palate refreshing.

The evening was great value and the service was excellent – but above all the dishes were original, full of flavour and interesting, so it is somewhere you must try out.

• The 8848, 11 Broad St, Stamford, PE9 1PG Tel: 01780 767600 www.the8848.co.uk

The Royal Oak Country Inn Harjit Gammon discovers a great dining pub in Swayfield

Guinea Fowl Supreme

Homemade Cheesecake

I’d never thought about going to Swayfield, like so many other villages in our lovely district, until a friend moved there, and although she has since temporarily gone off to distant shores I found myself invited there on a crisp and sunny autumn Friday for lunch at The Royal Oak. So far so good. The drive via Castle Bytham and Holywell augured well too, just the right length, about 20 minutes, to create a sense of expectation and to cast aside thoughts of work and home. I don’t know about you but I’ve always preferred eating out at lunch; it somehow, especially when combined with a break from the usual routine and familiar places, has the power to induce a deep sense of well being akin to a short break away from home.

Entering the pub, which sits centre of the village and the community (the new landlord Simon Lewis and his wife took the unusual and great step of actually asking the neighbours what they’d like from their local, hence the freshly baked bread for sale on the bar counter, the good selection of beers & ales and decent wine (Simon was formerly sommelier at Mosimmans in London, though don’t let that put you off, he is very personable and not at all snooty and the wines are affordable). To this mix they have added a tried and tested chef David Graveling, whom some of you will know was formerly at the Jackson Stops in Stretton and The Orangery at Burghley House.

On to the food. Our lunch was excellent. In the interests of research we were compelled to have three courses! Including wild mushroom risotto (which they happily prepared as a starter portion, though usually just a main) served with a parmesan crisp and rocket and homemade ham hock terrine. This was followed with a guinea fowl supreme from the specials board and a smoked haddock, spinach & cheddar fishcake topped with a luscious poached egg from the five well priced main courses at £9.95 from the lunch menu. If you are not really greedy a 2 course lunch is a very reasonable £13.50.

However opting for a third course we also sampled a homemade crème brulee with homemade shortbread biscuits and a fabulous homemade cheesecake with passion fruit coulis – both delicious.

And as if that were not enough, there is a good selection of lunch bar snacks if you want something simpler and more traditional. Overall, good food at moderate prices in a friendly log burner warmed village inn.

• The Royal Oak Country Inn, 27 High St, Swayfield NG33 4LL Tel: 01476 550 415 www.royaloakswayfield.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING NOVEMBER 2012

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FOOD & DR INK

SEAN’S KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL Autumn comforts

Sean Hope shows you how to create the culinary equivalent of ‘getting under a warm, fluffy duvet’

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he dish I’m sharing with you this issue is one of the most comforting I’ve come across. The flavours and textures are so soft and warming – perfect for the transition from autumn to winter. Biting into this haddock Scotch egg is the food equivalent of getting under a warm, fluffy duvet, and the smokey taste of the fish is perfectly complemented by the malted parsnip milk. The combination brings to mind hot mugs of Horlicks drunk in front of roaring fires while rain lashes against the window. But rather than Horlicks, the ideal drink to serve with this is a glass of real ale. In fact, we’ll be serving this dish as one of five courses at our Real Ale Dinner at the Olive Branch on Wednesday November 21. Tony Davis from Oakham’s Grainstore Brewery will be joining us to select interesting beers to complement the menu.

For all you preserving fans, I’ve also included the recipe for our Pub Piccalilli, which goes brilliantly with the haddock Scotch egg, offering a nice tangy flavour.

Smoked haddock Scotch egg Serves 4 • 4 quail eggs – boiled for two minutes and 20 seconds, then chillled and peeled • 2 tbsp seasoned flour • Egg wash • 4 tbsp breadcrumbs Smoked haddock mix • 40g unsalted butter • 1 tbsp plain flour • 200ml milk • 1 smoked haddock fillet, pin boned and skinned • 1 sprig thyme • 1 bay leaf • 1 clove garlic, crushed • 1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley • 3 tbsp mashed potato 1. Poach the fish in the milk, with the bay leaf, thyme and crushed garlic.

2. Remove the cooked fish, place on a tray and allow to cool.

3. Strain off the poaching liquid and retain.

4. For the sauce, melt the butter in a saucepan, then add the flour to make a roux.

5. Gradually add the poaching milk to the roux to make the sauce.

6. Cook the sauce out for 10 minutes.

7. Remove from the heat and mix in the parsley and three tablespoons of mashed potato.

8. Flake the smoked haddock into the mixture and season to taste.

9. Allow the mixture to set in fridge for 10 minutes before using.

To build the smoked haddock Scotch eggs 1 . On a piece of cling film, place a teaspoon of the haddock mix and spread thinly.

2. Place the soft-boiled quail egg on top of the mix, then add another teaspoon on the top of the egg and spread evenly.

3. Wrap in the cling film and set in the fridge for five minutes.

4. Remove the wrapped egg from the cling film, roll in lightly seasoned flour, then in the egg wash, then roll in the breadcrumbs until evenly coated.

5. To cook the egg, pre-heat the oil in your fryer to 180C and deep fry for one minute until golden brown.

6. Serve with a little cup of malted parsnip milk (see below).

Recipe Pub Piccalilli – Makes 2 jars • 150g cauliflower florets • 100g chopped white onion • Half cucumber, seeded and diced • 1 courgette, diced • 1 red pepper, peeled and diced • 280ml white wine vinegar • 140ml malt vinegar • 2 tsp English mustard powder • 2 tsp turmeric • 125g caster sugar • 2 tsp cornflower, diluted Mix all vegetables together and sprinkle with table salt. Leave for two hours before washing off in cold water and draining. Mix together in a large saucepan the vinegars, mustard, sugar, turmeric and cornflower. Bring to the boil until it thickens. Add the prepared vegetables to the sauce and cook out for five minutes. Remove from the heat and allow to cool slightly before placing into sterilised jam jars and sealing. Store in the fridge, use as required.

Malted parsnip milk Serves 4 • 1 large parsnip, washed and trimmed • Sprig thyme • Knob of butter • Honey • Sherry vinegar • 1tsp Horlicks 1. Lay the parsnip on a sheet of foil with the thyme and knob of butter. Drizzle in honey and splash with sherry vinegar. Wrap in the foil.

2. Bake in a pre-heated oven at 190C for 30 minutes (until soft) 3. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly 4. Chop the parsnip, place into a blender with 200ml of hot milk and one teaspoon of malt powder (Horlicks) and blend until light and smooth. Then serve.

JOIN GREAT FOOD CLUB The Olive Branch and Red Lion are part of Great Food Club – a network of the best local restaurants offering special deals to membership card holders.

Stamford Living readers can join Great Food Club FREE at: www.greatfoodclub.co.uk

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FOOD & DR INK Honeycomb Pavé

Hambleton Hall Nicholas Rudd-Jones was invited to Hambleton Hall to try out the new autumn menu

The unique Hambleton experience At Hambleton Hall you can be just about sure that the service and ambience will take your breath away. And the night we went was no exception. From the start we felt like welcomed guests in a family home, and the service is always highly attentive but never obsequious.

Everything is done for a purpose - making sure you are delighted by your experience.

The pre-dinner drink, the exquisite canapés (beetroot meringue, tomato bubble slow cooked salmon with vanilla), the cosy sofa in the drawing room, the unobtrusive murmur of other diners’ conversation, everyone intent on enjoying their evening.

But what about the new menu?

The new autumn dinner menu is priced at £65 per head for three courses and has a choice of five dishes per course, which change on a regular basis. There is also a six-course Tasting Menu available at £72; and at lunch the ever popular Lunch for Less at £24 for two courses.

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I asked Aaron Patterson, Head Chef and Co-owner, what he was aiming to achieve with the new menu. “Well, I am always looking to move forward and to make sure that the menu stays fresh. This time around I have changed two-thirds of the menu; I started with a blank piece of paper, and it has meant many long hours of work and lots of sleepless nights.” He went on: “The main shift in emphasis is the desire to home in on a main ingredient, to strip things back and make them simpler, to make things a bit cleaner on the plate, to focus on what’s important. He concluded: “We are never content with the standard of cooking that we have achieved to date, we always want to achieve more.”

And how did we find it?

We began with an appetiser of A little taste of Terrine of Beetroot with a Horseradish Cream, Horseradish Sorbet & Crushed Pistachio. It was very pleasing to the eye, using three different types of beetroot from the garden, and the

sorbet was exquisite.

Our starters were both delicious. My companion chose a ‘Lasagne of Chanterelle Mushrooms’, served with Pak Choi, Bacon Lardons and a Grappa Flavoured Sauce; whilst I couldn’t resist the riddle of a ‘Riceless Risotto of Squid with Chorizo’ - the ‘riceless’ part was in fact squid finely cut into small pieces to resemble risotto.

For mains we couldn’t help but try each other’s they were so interesting and involving.

A ‘Simply Roast Grouse’ - served with a little Boudin of Confit Leg Meat, Cabbage with Bacon Lardons, a Blackberry & Pernod Purée, Baby Onions, with a Creme de Mure Sauce. And the second dish, Variations of Lamb - Roasted Loin of Lamb, a Crispy Confit Belly, Breaded Sweetbreads, Braised Shoulder topped with a Herb Crust & Confit Tongue. The food is simply artwork on a plate; bursting with visual, aromatic and flavour sensations.

For puddings we went indulgent, with the familiar Hambleton favourite of Passion Fruit

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Soufflé (it never ceases to be delicious) and the Pavé of White & Dark Chocolate.

The sommelier proposed to us a glass of wine to match each dish, and this further added to the memorability of the experience.

The ‘after show’ continued with coffee back in the drawing room in front of the fire, with home-made confections: Plum Jellies, Lemon Operas and Chocolate & Salted Caramel Hazelnut Truffles. Bliss. It lifts the spirits and heart to find such painstaking care and attention to detail with the product, ambience and service.

Dinner for two including wine will cost around £160. Go as frequently as your budget will allow, but certainly insist upon it for any special occasion - maybe even invent a few special occasions - because it is special in every way.

Assiette of Roast Vegetables

Roast Grouse

Tronçon of Turbot

Lemon Meringue Pie

Fillet of Hambleton Beef

Cornish Crab

Roast Partridge

• Hambleton Hall Michelin star Oakham Rd, Hambleton Peninsula, LE15 8TH Tel: 01572 756991 www.hambletonhall.com STAMFORD LIVING NOVEMBER 2012

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PE R SPE CT IVE S

The story of Bull-running in Stamford

David Allen delves into a very significant part of Stamford’s history The Stamford coat of arms gives a clue to a very popular sport that was practised, enjoyed and fought for in Stamford for over 500 years.

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he sport was bull-running, which took place on November 13th each year and was accompanied by public proclamations, feasting, singing of the bullrunners’ song and chasing a bull through the town.

Unlike Pamplona, the famous bull-running town in Spain, only one bull was involved rather than a herd of bulls being released. Also it was not a sport just for young men but men and women from Stamford and nearby villages from all ages and classes took part enthusiastically.

Indeed later on, when authorities in London tried to ban the sport, the citizenry demonstrated and protested for several years

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to keep the sport alive. The enthusiasm for the sport is well captured in this speech delivered on a bull running day.

“Potentates and Powers, at length the happy Day is once more return’d, the Day of Joy and Gladness, the Day of Mirth and Pastime. On this day there is no King in Stamford; we are every one of us High and Mighty Lords of the united Parishes in a General Bull-running.”

The sport’s origins The clue in the Stamford coat of arms is the right hand half made up of a chequered azure and gold pattern. These are the arms of the De Warenne family, descendants of the Norman knights, one of whom lived in the Stamford castle in the 13th Century. It is said that in 1209 Earl de Warrene, standing at one of the windows of his castle, saw two bulls in the meadow fighting for one cow.

The butchers, noticing the battle, came with their dogs to separate them, only for the bulls to run enraged through the town, where they tossed men, women and children. On hearing of the uproar, Earl de Warrene immediately got on his horse and rode into Stamford to join the multitude. He was so pleased with the sport

that he gave the meadow to the butchers on the condition that they find a ‘mad bull’ to be run through the town on the 13th November, for ever.

Whilst the details of this origin of the sport may be just folklore, bull-running was practised in Stamford from mediaeval times until 1840 and this is well documented both in Stamford’s own archives and many learned treatise’ about the social development of sports and pastimes in England.

In 1646, for instance, the puritan Richard Butcher lamented that he had seen both elderly men and women following the bulling business, as he called it. The town’s magistrates were, in fact, well-known patrons of the sport.

One mayor, Robert Ridlington, was praised by the local populace for leaving in 1756 half a crown each year to each of the five parishes in Stamford to pay for the ‘stopping’ of the town’s streets and gates on 13 November. The Church, too, seems also to have sanctioned this custom; an entry in the Saint George’s Church record books, for example, shows the provision of ten shillings to the churchwardens to be spent at the annual bull-running in 1737.

Francis Peck, in his eighteenth century

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pamphlet on the history of the bull-running, commented on the manner by which it was passed down from generation to generation, “The Steeples are filled with Children, who are sent to observe the Proceedings of their Seniors, in this manner they are initiated and train’d up to be compleat Masters themselves in time.”

What was the point?

The chief aim of the bull-running was to ‘bridge the bull’, meaning to toss the animal from Stamford’s bridge into the River Welland. He would then swim to the nearby meadow where he would be pursued again for a short while before eventually being slaughtered at the end of the day. A reference compiled by Toulmin Smith, dating from 1389 from Stamford’s Guild of St. Martin, states “on the feast of St. Martin this gild, by custom beyond reach of memory, has a bull; which is hunted by dogs, and then sold; whereupon the bretheren and sisteren sit down to feast” One female was so influential in the history of the practice that she was revered by Stamfordians as “Empress of the Bullards”; Mrs Anne Blades, better known to the local populace as ‘Nan Roberts’, was instrumental in defeating the attempt to quash the sport in November 1789, openly defying the orders of the civic authorities against running a bull through the town. Her local celebrity was such that she earned an obituary in the anti-bullrunning Stamford Mercury. Mrs Blades was to be seen every 13 November dressed all in blue, carrying a blue stick as clearly shown in this Oil painting that hangs in the Council Room in the Town Hall.

The Bull-running scrapbook In the Stamford archives is a scrapbook with many contemporary documents showing both the support for and opposition to the practice.

The scrapbook has over 100 contemporary documents of which four are worth elaborating here. It was compiled in the 19th century by Mr Joseph Phillips, a well known Stamford Businessman.

First a music sheet with the tune and words of the Bull Song. This was sung by the sport’s supporters, known as “Bullards” at feasts leading up to the day and also on the day. The first two verses are shown below.

The second document is a pamphlet from the Stamford by-election of 1809 where one candidate standing for office, J Jephson Oddy promised the electors he would protect their favourite sport if they voted for him.

Opposition and decline But the sport was also opposed. The third document is another handbill, the twitter of the time, speaking out strongly against the “cruel” practice and pleading for the bulls to be left in peace. A local magistrate, Richard Newcomb who was also the owner of the Mercury, was strongly against the sport and once lamented that he was the only member of the magistracy who did not support it.

The RSPCA spent many of its early years campaigning against Stamford’s bull-running as its records show, finally succeeding in having the sport declared illegal by the Court of the Queens’s Bench in 1838.

One factor for Stamford itself was that the increasing costs of policing the sport, now that it was outlawed, were causing much opposition from the town’s ratepayers. The fourth document from the scrapbook is a pledge against bull-running signed by more than 600 citizens showing the names of all the signatories.

Finally a second contemporary oil painting from the Town Hall shows the bull having being arrested and returned to town by a troop of Dragoons and members of the Metropolitan Police. These were sent by the Home Secretary from London in 1839 to quell the sport finally.

The last known year of an attempted bull-run was 1840.

Restoration of Historic Bull Running Scrapbook The Stamford Decorative and Fine Arts Society, STADFAS, has for many years provided volunteers to the Town for the conservation of its many archives

and treasures. In 2011 it was decided that the scrapbook leaves were badly in need of restoration, though most of the original documents were sound.

STADFAS then decided to sponsor the professional restoration of the Scrapbook and they were successful in obtaining a matching grant from their national body NADFAS; an organisation providing thousands of volunteer hours across the country to preserve many aspects of Britain’s cultural heritage.

The scrapbook has been restored by Louise Drover, an experienced book and paper conservator based in Northampton. She is also involved in restoration work at Strawberry Hill, Chatsworth and Blenheim The 100+ original documents had to be carefully released from their attachment to the fragile leaves of the book and in some cases washed to reduce their acidity. Then they were restored where necessary and had Japanese paper hinges added.

The new leaves are an acid-free cotton based paper similar in tone and weight to the original.

The original case had been used with the spine and covers consolidated and the new leaves bound in. The documents will be tipped into their original page positions and hinged so that both sides can be seen by researchers.

The restored document will be on display in the Town Hall and a reception will be held on November 13th to launch the scrapbook and to remind Stamford citizens of the origins and history of its unique sport of bull-running.

An audio visual presentation on bull-running has been created by STADFAS and will be shown both at the reception and when the scrapbook goes on public exhibition. It will also be available to local organisations wishing to learn more about this most historic and typical Stamford social custom that was practised and enjoyed here from around 1280 to 1840.

The restored Scrapbook can now also be made available for use by scholars for study and research.

Come all you bonny boys, Who love to bait the bonny bull, Who take delight in noise, And you shall have your belly full, On Stamford’s Town Bull running day, We’ll show you such right gallant play, You never saw the like you’ll say, As you have seen at Stamford.

Earl Warren was the man, That first began this gallant sport; In the Castle he did stand, And saw the bonny bulls that fought; The butchers with their bull-dogs came, These sturdy stubborn bulls to tame, But more with madness did inflame, Enrag’d they ran through Stamford.

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COUNT RY FILE

Rectory Farm, Great Easton “We take great pride in our ability to balance the pressures of modern farming and the need to conserve and enhance the environment.” Jean Orpin and Sue Lee were made very welcome at the farm with this powerful ethos The Farm Great Easton is just in Leicestershire but borders on both Rutland and Northants.

Rectory Farm, with its farmhouse next to the church, has been in the family since 1936 when Tom Johnson took on the tenancy from the Church Commissioners. At that time it was a mixed farm of 183 acres with animals and arable crops: a big farm then but not viable today. The acreage increased as Tom took over more land and the farm became more specialised with beef, sheep and cereals. Philip Johnson took over the tenancy, now 973 acres, in 1985. He no longer keeps cattle but still has a flock of sheep although the majority of the land is arable.

As a keen conservationist, Philip has always encouraged wildlife and birds on his land.

The farm became part of the Natural England Stewardship Scheme in 2002; a scheme which encourages farmers and landowners to conserve the landscape and look after wildlife.

Part of the scheme encourages farmers to help people enjoy the countryside by allowing them to walk through their fields. The Johnsons have created permissive paths, which are well used by walkers. They have planted over a mile of hedgerows and left wide headlands round fields for wildlife. Organised walks enable visitors to learn more about the farm and countryside.

This careful management has resulted in a dramatic increase in the number of birds in the last few years and many bird watching groups visit. A local group has erected a number of bird boxes to encourage birds to nest. The farm is

64

a member of RSPB Farmer Alliance and they conduct bird counts every four years. At the last count in 2008, 47 species were seen several of them uncommon these days.

The farm has achieved many awards for its management and conservation including the RSPB Nature of Farming Award. They were finalists in the Farmers’ Weekly Countryside Farmer of the Year in 2011 and this attracted the attention of the BBC. You may remember seeing Fay and Abigail, Philip Johnson’s daughters, on Countryfile with Matt Baker last March.

Wild Bird Feeds As well as a wide experience of farming as they grew up, Fay and Abigail both have qualifications ideally suited to running a business and as adults wanted to remain part of the family farm. The creation of their wild

bird feed business on the farm was a natural development from the conservation and environmental interests of the family. As some wild bird numbers have drastically declined, attracting and feeding birds in gardens is more and more important.

The feeds they sell include a wide variety of seeds and also peanuts, suet and dried mealworms. As much as possible (wheat, millet & oil seed rape) comes directly from Rectory Farm and the rest of it is bought in from the nearest location possible. Some ingredients like peanuts and niger seed have, of course, to be imported.

The feeds are supplied in attractive bags weighing 2kg to 20kg. Five different mixes of seeds suitable for different birds and conditions are sold, all mixed and bagged on the farm.

Bags of individual feeds are also available and so are a selection of feeders and bird tables.

Everything can be ordered online (www. eyebrookwildbirdfeeds.co.uk ) or by phone (01536 770771) and a delivery service is offered; however, the sisters have a pricing policy that clearly encourages customers to visit the shop on the farm. This is open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sunday mornings although a telephone call in advance will usually mean that collections can be made at other times. As well as getting advice on suitable feeds and feeders etc, customers who collect are encouraged to take advantage of the locality by walking on the permissive paths around the farm to see birds, flowers, hares and wonderful views of Eyebrook Reservoir.

STAMFORD Living november 2012

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HOME & GAR DE N

Sustainable Heating Solutions

As you fuel bill starts to soar with the onset of winter, what better time to look at more sustainable heating solutions. Charlotte Newby explores

Start by asking yourself these questions: • How much did the fuel bill cost last winter?

• How much will the rising cost of oil affect your fuel bills in the future?

• What sort of impact is your current heating system having on the environment - or in other words - would you like to reduce your carbon footprint?

On a tip-off I travelled over to Boston to explore some sustainable heating options, and headed to the Sack Store, which sells outdoor wood burning furnaces and the biggest range of wood burning stoves in England. The showroom building itself is a 19th century warehouse used in the past - as the name might suggest - to store sacks. Once derelict, it is now a fascinating labyrinth of light-filled spaces packed with not only wood burners, but also over a million tiles, contemporary and traditional wooden furniture, lights and lamps, interesting ceramics and kitchenware, pictures, Farrow and Ball paint and a great deal more. I could have spent all day exploring, but as I’d gone to investigate woodburners and furnaces, I tried to keep focussed.

Indoor wood burners Former Quantity Surveyor, Chris Isaac, restored the dilapidated warehouse and opened the

Sack Store some twenty years ago. Chris is quite obviously passionate about wood burners.

He was keen to explain how a modern fuelefficient wood burning stove works by giving me a demonstration on his favourite – one of his many Clearview models. The Sack Store is Clearview’s largest stockist and there’s a model to suit any home, whether modern or traditional.

Clearview wood burners are designed and manufactured in Shropshire. They’re double-glazed, made from heavy steel sections and they’re double welded for longevity and strength. These features mean that the stove has a more complete combustion rate than many alternatives. I was impressed by this stove’s credentials, but was truly amazed by how clean its window was, in spite of being in use most of the time. I’m a hands-on wood stove user myself, and the window of ours has been black since the start.

These Clearview stoves live up to their name! ‘It’s all about the air wash’ said Chris, ‘a curtain of air that comes through an air inlet and goes across the glass that pushes the smoke away and as a result keeps the glass cleaner’. Impressive.

Chris believes that having one of these stoves decreases your stress levels because watching the flames – winter sunshine - is so meditative. And I’m inclined to agree!

While managing a wood burning stove is more labour intensive than switching on the central heating, many of the wood burners can take logs that will burn for fifteen to twenty hours. What’s more, in the larger stoves, you can push the burning logs to one side and put your casserole in there!

Outdoor furnaces Many people are now turning to outdoor wood burning furnaces to heat their buildings. These work particularly well in large, older buildings where insulation is insufficient and the space is otherwise very expensive to heat. And they are increasingly being used for farm buildings, houses, outdoor pools, greenhouses and rural schools.

The brilliant thing about using them in schools is that it not only keeps the heating bills right down, it also provides the opportunity to educate children to re-learn the lost culture of using wood as a sustainable heating solution.

Outdoor furnaces operate on a very simple principle. Burning wood inside the furnace heats water that is pumped into the building.

This can be connected to the boiler system, hot water heater or heat exchanger to provide steady, comfortable and efficient heating. They can be run all-year round and need feeding less frequently than an indoor wood burner.

Larger ones can be filled just once or twice a week and they can use wood in any form. Chris says that by using outdoor furnaces to heat his substantial building, he has saved £25-£30k a year in fuel bills.

Furnaces supplied by the Sack Store are manufactured by an American company called Heatmor. The company prides itself in building the longest lasting, most durable, stainless steel outdoor furnace in the industry. The furnaces range in capacity, size and even colour to suit all applications. While burning wood is hardly a new concept, it is gaining popularity in areas with plentiful wood supplies, particularly with the rising cost of fossil fuels. Wood as a source of energy is cost effective and has a low impact on the environment.

If you are thinking about buying a wood burner, it’s certainly worth a visit to the Sack Store. It’s a straightforward 50-minute drive from Stamford (on a working day) and there is a lot to see while you are there. It has an awardwinning café set in unique surroundings serving delicious homemade food too.

• Redstone Industrial Estate, Redstone Road, Boston PE21 8EA. Tel: 01205 310101 www.sackstore.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING november 2012 67

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L OCA L WALK

THE HIGH POINTS AROUND ASHLEY Ashley is a delightful start point for this walk that takes you to the region’s high point of 137 metres near the 6-way signpost

WALK DATA: 6 miles 2.5 hours Explorer 223 &224 or Landranger 141 Ashley Hilly, with ploughed fields making going slowerat some times of year Mainly gates Yes 6 miles W of Corby

Distance Typical time OS map Start & finish Terrain

Stiles Dog friendly How to get there Refreshments • The George, Ashley is the quintessential British pub with good local food and beer. Tel: 01858 565289 www.thegeorgeashley.co.uk • Fox Inn, Wilbarston. Tel: 01536 771270 www.thefoxwilbarston.com • The White Horse, Stoke Albany Tel: 01858 535268 www.thewhite-horse.net A delightful pub where you can enjoy a pub meal or choose from the accomplished a la carte menu.

The George

The 6-way post

POINTS OF INTEREST All three villages that you pass through - Ashley, Wilbarston and Stoke Albany - have some delightful architecture in them. The local stone is a most attractive yellowy colour. There is an Ashley village website that has a map and a description of the most interesting houses in the village: www.ashleyvillage.co.uk

1

Ashley

DIRECTIONS

1

8 2 7

3

6 ways post

Park outside The George Inn in Ashley. Opposite the front of the pub, heading south, is a small road that you should take. After a couple of hundred yards you take the bridleway sign to the right and pass along a track, going through a gate where there are two houses to your right.

Walk up the hill and at the far side of the field you will see two footpath signs.

Ignore the stile and footpath sign ahead and instead head left through a gate marked with a bridleway sign. The path goes downhill diagonally across a hill (you may need to take the right field edge), to cross a brook and reach the start of Brig Lane.

Follow this track, initially uphill, which eventually becomes tarmacced, to the outskirts of Wibarston. Turn right (west) when you meet the road, towards Stoke Albany. The next turn on the right you will see the church and old village hall. Ignore this and continue on the road, taking a twist to the right.

At this point a footpath takes off to the left, crosses a field and follows the right hand side of a field boundary. You will pass a golf club house 50 yards to your left, crossing a little footbridge and then the road to the club, heading alongside a field.

On reaching a field boundary, strike out across a massive field straight past an old shed with a tree to its left. The path continues straight ahead to the far end of the field.

There is a tiny gap at the right hand of the copse with its own natural arch. Head up diagonally to the corner of the next field and follow a track up alongside a field. On reaching the fence the path goes straight across the field until it reaches the 6-way post.

You will now helpfully be pointed on the bridleway back to Ashley.

Stick to the left edge of the field, with great views down to Ashley, until you are opposite a gate on the other side of the field, at which point you cross the field directly aiming towards Ashley.

Go through this gate, and you will soon be back in the village.

Walk along the village street past the church and shortly afterwards the pub.

2

6

Wilbarston

5 4

Stoke Albany Brampton Ash

3 4

5 6 7

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D IA RY DAT E S

What’s On Amander Meade selects some of the best entertainment across the region this month

Thursday 1 November, 2pm CHILDREN’S SHOW: Pinocchio Join Pinocchio on his journey from naughty puppet to ‘real boy’. Full of fascinating characters, infectious songs, great costumes and an ingenious set plus the opportunity for children to take part and the whole audience to sing the chorus songs. A classic tale and a special treat for the young and young at heart.

• Stamford Arts Theatre Tickets £8 (£28 family of four) Tel: 01780 763203 www.stamfordartscentre.co.uk Saturday 3 November PARTY NIGHT: ‘It’s a Disco Night’ A disco sing-along featuring a seven piece live band with 70s icon Tony Blackburn providing the links between songs as a virtual DJ. The show features Brit award winning Paul Marazzi who had a string of hits with boy band A1 with audience participation and fancy dress encouraged. High energy atmosphere ensures a stunning and memorable night out for all ages.

• Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre Wednesday 7 to Saturday 10 November, 7.30pm (Saturday matinee 2.30pm) MUSICAL COMEDY: Dick Turpin – The Road to York The College Players present a lively production telling the story of when notorious highwayman Dick Turpin raided a ball held by Sir Hubert

Burley at Burley House. The tale is of a scoundrel in a tri cornered hat who captured the hearts and imaginations of ladies and adventurers everywhere.

• Stamford Arts Centre Tickets £9 Tel: 01780 763203 or www.stamfordartscentre.com Thursday 8 to Saturday 10 November EVENT: Operetta Double Bill In ‘Cavalleria Rusticana’ by Mascagni, a prosperous Sicilian village carpenter returns home for Easter to find that his wife has returned to her former lover. A story of betrayal, jealousy and lost love, resulting in tragic revenge, Mascagni’s score overflows with melodies, including the well-known Easter Hymn. By complete contrast, in Gianni Schicchi, a comedy by Puccini, a family mourns the death of a departed wealthy uncle. Eagerly awaiting their inheritance they discover that they have been left out of his will. Puccini sets this lively comedy to a fast-paced score and both operas are performed fully costumed, in English with a live orchestra.

• Corn Exchange Theatre Tickets £13 with accompanied children under 16 years free of charge.

Saturday 10 November, 7.30pm MUSIC: The Dream of Gerontius Peterborough Choral Society with Peterborough Cathedral Choir, PCMA Festival

Chorus and the Aurelian Symphony Orchestra will perform Edward Elgar’s setting of Cardinal Newman’s poem to music. Ralph Allwood MBE, will conduct the combined voices accompanied by the Aurelian Symphony Orchestra, in what promises to be a very special performance of a stupendous work in the superlative setting of Peterborough Cathedral. A highly unusual opportunity to hear this work.

• Peterborough Cathedral Tickets are £19, £15 & £12 (Half price for under 18s) from www.pcmusicassociation. org or from Stamford Arts Centre Tel: 01780 763203www.stamfordartscentre.com) and in person from Peterborough Visitor Information Centre.

Saturday 11 November, 7.30pm CONCERT: Joe Brown and his Band Premier rock ‘n’ roll legend Joe Brown goes from strength to strength as his contemporary achievements continue to gather momentum.

His ‘Very Best Of’ album achieved a Gold Record for a massive 120,000 sales and was on the UK charts for eight weeks. Packed with timeless classics, rockabilly, gospel, country, folk, and rock ‘n’ roll, all interwoven with Joe’s effervescent delivery and humorous reminiscences this sensational show is a musical journey not to be missed.

• Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre Tickets £23.50 Tel: 01780 766455

STAMFORD LIVING november 2012

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D IA RY DAT E S

Looking forward to….. Festive Delights across the region. Some seasonal dates for your diary in the run up to Christmas including local pantomimes, concerts, exhibitions and family shows.

Saturday 8 December, 7.30pm EVENT: Music at St Martin’s present Magnificat A programme of choral music for Christmas performed by the Stamford Singers in conjunction with the choir of Emmanuel College Cambridge, conducted by Richard Latham. The programme will include Faure Requiem and Vivaldi’s Gloria.

• St Martin’s Church, Stamford. Tickets £10/£8, £3 for students and children free from Stamford Arts Centre Tel: 01780 763203 or on the door.

Sunday 9 December, 10am to 4pm EVENT: Stamford Christmas Festival Back by popular demand and now in its fourth year, the festival will have a 1950s theme creating an exciting party atmosphere. Held in the streets central to the town there will be over two hundred traders and exhibitors plus entertainment, choirs, bands, a fun fair, Santa’s Grotto and much more.

• For more information on how to become involved as a trader or volunteer visit www. visitstamford.com/xmas Monday 10 December to Thursday 3 January 2013 EVENT: Winter Exhibition Lincolnshire Artist’s Society was founded in

1906 and has been exhibiting in the county ever since. This exhibition features the work of over 140 members working in a range of media and a wide variety of styles. Most work is for sale and you will find something to suit most tastes and budgets.

• Stamford Gallery, Stamford Arts Centre.

Admission is free.

Saturday 16 to Wednesday 26 December PANTOMIME: Dick Whittington This fascinating enchanting tale of a young man who travels from Peterborough (Oh yes he does!) to the City of London to find his fortune is a classic pantomime favourite and promises to be a fantastic family show. Starring ‘East Enders’ favourite Ricky Groves as Idle Jack, and singing heart-throb Andy Scott-Lee as Dick Whittington plus a welcome return from Zach Vanderfelt as Sarah the Cook.

• The Cresset Theatre, Peterborough Ticket prices vary with great deals on early and group booking, Tel: 01733 265705 Saturday 22 December, 2pm CHILDREN’S SHOW: Rapunzel Theatre of Widdershins has taken this traditional tale right back to its roots, teased out the tangles and styled it into a beautifully coiffured hairpiece. This enchanting show promises plenty of body, volume and loads of

highlights. Make an appointment to see the show today Stamford Theatre • Tickets £7.50 (£26 family of four) Tel: 01780 763203 www.stamfordartscentre. co.uk Thursday 27 to Monday 31 December, 7pm with matinee performances available PANTOMIME: Puss in Boots Stamford Pantomime Players provide a wonderland of festive cheer complete with all the larger than life characters, magic, slapstick, laughter, songs and dance.

• Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre Tickets £7/£9 Tel: 01780 766455 Wednesday 9 January to Sunday 13 January 2013 – 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 and 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

STAMFORD LIVING november 2012

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SUBSCRIBE TO Stamford Living IDEAL CHRISTMAS GIFT For £20 you can subscribe to Stamford Living for 12 issues.

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

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PE R SPE CT IVE S

ASK

LEO

Is it feasible that the canopies on top of the Bottle Lodges were ‘recycled’ from Wothorpe Towers? This was A.T’s winning question for ‘10 years of Ask Leo’ in the June edition.

Stone features were often re-used and it has long been thought that the cupolas were taken from Wothorpe House as the place fell into ruin. Wothorpe House was built by Thomas Cecil in the early 17th century probably as a lodge and used later used as a dower house for widows of the family. William Legge, a Stamford architect, made drawings of the house at Wothorpe before it was partially demolished at the end of the 18th century. He designed the Bottle Lodges in 1799 as an impressive entrance to Burghley House and undoubtedly copied the cupolas (and those at Burghley itself) as a feature. Leo believes that the original cupolas were not removed until 1862 and C.H has also suggested that the originals were made of lead rather than stone.

I have a map (only a corner is shown in the picture) which was drawn in 1985.

It is hand coloured and lists shops and inns. Does any reader know who Grey was and why the map was produced? A.T. TG Grey drew maps of Louth, Boston and Winslow in 1983. There is also a map of the Fenland churches, which hangs in the church of St Mary and St Nicholas in Spalding and a map in Saffron Walden museum. Like the Stamford map they show banks, shops and pubs; some no longer there. Does anyone know of any other maps

by Grey, where he was based or any more about him?

Madrid Corner EM wrote to tell us about another nickname for an area of the town, “Much of the town before the war was slums with some shocking ones in Water Street, Bath Row, Gas Street and Belton Street. On the corner of Recreation Road and East Street there were hovels. When they were cleared in the 1930s most of the rubble was left on the site. As we were seeing pictures of bombing in Spain it became known as ‘Madrid Corner”.

Does anyone else remember this or any other nicknames?

The Coronation Thanks to JMS who lived at the Bottle Lodges and sent us her memories of the Queen’s Coronation. “My Sister and I were very fortunate to have been brought up on the Burghley Estate living in the Bottle Lodges. Our Grandad, Edgar Cunnington, was a manager on the estate. I do remember him being asked to plant an oak tree with the Marquess of Exeter.

An Acorn from the Estate was started in 1952 and then planted in the park in 1953. It was a very special occasion. The Coronation Oak is still there and I visit it often. It is a lovely reminder of my Grandad and the Coronation.

I attended St George’s School in Wharf Road and we all received a Coronation mug, which I still have. My grandparents, Dad, my sister and I all went to the Assembly Rooms to watch the ceremony on a small black and white television.

I kept thinking how did all those people get into a tiny box?”

Book Token: to JMS for her memories of the Coronation

For next time: Stamford People past and present - Colin Dexter Colin Dexter was born in Stamford in 1930. He attended Stamford School and then after National Service read Classics at Christ’s College Cambridge. His first teaching position was at Wyggeston School Leicester, followed by Loughborough Grammar School and then he was appointed Senior Classics master at Corby Grammar School in 1959. He was forced to resign from teaching due to the onset of deafness. He took a post at Oxford University which he held until 1988. He also took part in a programme about cryptic crosswords at the BBC. He started writing about Inspector Morse in 1975 and when the television series began in 1987, the programmes were immediately successful.

Does anyone have any pre-1960 or even earlier photographs or maps of Stamford millstream; in particular the area where the Tinwell Weir is now sited, which was the original point where the Millstream was fed by the River Welland?

Please send answers to questions or any interesting memories about Stamford to askleo@btinternet.com or Leo Specialist Tours, address below.

Leo Specialist Tours

STAMFORD LIVING NOVEMBER 2012

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STA M FOR D PE OPLE

Victor Couzens: Self Made Man

The story of Vic Couzens, says Harjit Gammon, could very easily have been a hard luck story, but is in fact, a hard work story

B

orn to an unwed mother of 16, Victor grew up during his early life in Pickworth surrounded by men. His mother had six brothers. Home was his grandfather’s farm.

Here he absorbed the lifelong lesson that women were to be looked after, following his uncles’ example of unstinting protectiveness of their sister when she found herself with child.

As her only child he took it upon himself from a very young age as his own duty to look after her.

Years later it is no surprise to learn therefore that the thing Vic is most proud of is providing for his family; wife Yvonne and children Tracey and Steven, and importantly his mother, Mary.

He recounts, “We weren’t well off and money was tight”. As a 12 year old boy he had three jobs; a job delivering newspapers at 6am every morning before school and then delivering parcels for local dress shop Pauleys and Nelsons the butcher after school. By this time he and his mother (who worked on the land at Burghley) had moved into Stamford into a little workman’s cottage near St Martin’s. Not academic, at school he excelled in carpentry, winning first prize in class competitions. A love of small animals on his grandfather’s farm, for which he built hutches as a boy was eventually to lead to a definitive work path for the young Victor.

A young man with aspiration and a ‘can do’ attitude, he set out to achieve his ambition to be better off. And I think you’d agree he succeeded.

Today he is all but retired from his building firm and property acquisition drive (he is a significant landlord in Stamford and the region), and beginning to finally settle to enjoying the fruits of his labour. Though, true to form he remains extremely active and involved in many community projects. He is a sponsor of St Gilbert’s School Scootathon, helped Casterton Community College get their Business Trust up and running and is most proudly a governor of New College Stamford, where his work entails attracting businesses to take up apprenticeships at the college; a cause very dear to his heart.

Indeed throughout his business years he had an on-going apprenticeship scheme with seven apprentices every year, as a means of giving others an opportunity such as the one he felt very lucky to have enjoyed himself.

After a lengthy and comprehensive apprenticeship with Clark & Belton in St Paul’s Street (during which time he also worked as a taxi driver in the evenings to make ends meet), from the age of 15 when he left school (St Martin’s) until he was 21, he set out in his own right. “I never wanted to work for anyone else,” he recalls, though his own firm was

eventually to provide employment for around 40 people. He also built the first of many homes for himself at this time, having married his wife Yvonne when he was 20. “I wanted to own my own house so I built one, on Sussex Road” he tells me. “The person who bought it from us still lives there,” he adds. A second self-build home followed in Conduit Road, with its own indoor swimming pool culminating in 1980 with the purchase of a derelict barn, which he painstakingly reconfigured and reconstructed, and which remains his home to this day.

However, following a chance conversation with an Italian acquaintance, Victor recently embarked on probably the most emotional venture of his life-seeking out his long lost father. His father, whose identity he had

discovered 17 years ago, had left Stamford when Victor was just a baby of 6 months. Armed only with the knowledge that his father had been an Italian POW and a vague notion of his hometown Vic successfully tracked him down.

However in deference to the feelings of his now deceased mother and his father’s possible family in Italy, he delayed making contact. After his mother’s death however, he eventually established contact only to learn, rather sadly, that his father had too passed away only 6 months earlier. But to his joy Vic has discovered that he has two half brothers and a half sister with whom he is now happily united.

A happy reward for a man who has worked hard, taken responsibility and served others.

STAMFORD Living NOVEMBER 2012

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the areas leading letting & management specialist

but don’t just take our word for it......

I would like to thank you and all the staff for the way they have managed the property for me over the past 5 plus years, nothing has ever been too much trouble and everything has been handled in a very professional way.

Mr P R Stamford

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Wing 525 pcm

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Thank you for the ongoing excellent care and support provided by Watson Mitchell Mr G & Mrs S W Stamford

contact us today.....

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g n i m o c e b rd? o l d n a l l a Mitchel

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Stamford 01780 765 100 www.wmlet.com 17/10/12 17:10:28