Stamford Living October 2011

HELPING YOU TO GET THE MOST OUT OF LIVING LOCALLY

STAMFORD LIVING FOOD/FASHION/HEALTH & BEAUTY/HOME & GARDEN/LIFESTYLE

AUTUMN PLEASURES Long walks, pumpkin soups PROPERTY High End trends

£1.50 OCTOBER 2011

@LocalLivingUK

WWW.BESTLOCALLIVING.CO.UK

Attic fashion team

Support our Independents!

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Exeter Gardens, Stamford

£398,000

Situated in one of the town’s premier residential areas, set well back from the road and backing onto playing fields. Superbly maintained versatile family sized accommodation with the benefit 4/5 Bedrooms. Living Room, spacious Kitchen/ Breakfast Room, refitted Bathroom plus ensuite Bathroom. Fabulous sunny and private rear gardens. Parking for several cars.

£379,950

A delightful 3 Bedroom, 3 reception room cottage built from local stone beneath a thatched roof. Packed with original features the property sits in a lovely cottage garden with an additional large outbuilding and sits adjacent to the banks of the river. Accommodation briefly comprises: Kitchen, Dining Room, Lounge, Study, 3 Bedrooms, Bathroom and Ensuite Shower.

Badinton Lane, Bainton

Detached stone built property situated in this sought-after village location and comprising Living room, Dining Room, Study and superbly fitted Kitchen/Breakfast Room with Utility Room off. Master Bedroom having a Dressing Room and En-suite. Three further Bedrooms and Family Bathroom. Fabulous ‘Den’ with a Shower Room and countryside views. Rear Garden and Double Garage.

Riverside, Deeping Gate

£1,400 pcm

Carlby Road, Greatford

£1,100 pcm

Former school and Grade II listed building comprising large Sitting Room with 19ft vaulted ceiling overlooked by a Mezzanine Study/ Third Bedroom as well as a large Drawing Room. The fully refitted Kitchen completes the Ground Floor. Two good sized Bedrooms and Two Bathrooms. Outside is a Guest Wing with Sitting/Bedroom and En-suite. Low maintenance Gardens.

2/3 St Johns Street Stamford PE9 2DA

Sales: 01780 750000 Lettings: 01780 750001 2

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

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STAMFORD LIVING

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e’ve given the magazine a bit of a facelift this month.

It’s that time of year really, new uniforms for the kids and a new suit of clothes for the magazine. No doubt some things will take time to ‘wear in’. We have also got several new articles and as always feedback would be appreciated.

We are now running a regular writer’s spot, so if you have something to say, can say it well and have a burning desire to be published, then email us your material for consideration.

About 700 words.

We are also bringing the pages more to life with better, bigger photography.

And if you want to keep up to date with what’s happening on a daily basis then follow us on Twitter at @ LocalLivingUK. That way you’ll get to hear about things first, and hopefully it will bring a smile to your face from time to time as we observe the ins and outs of Stamford life.

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 Warner’s of Bourne

Subscribe to Stamford Living

UPFRONT, SHOPPING 5 Editor’s selection: what caught the eye this month?

7 Upfront: Marie Curie Design Day, One Hell of a Challenge, Healthy Hearing Open Day,

Burghley Concert, Marcia May Footwear 8 Upfront: more than travel, Browns Hairdressing, The Beauty Manor, Physiotherapy at

Equilibrium 16 Shopping: Queensgate Competition, Solar Meridian, Stuy Porter Antiques 52 Round-up: Wine-tasting at The Orangery; An Evening with Bunny Guinness; Dream

Lodges at Tallington; Sly Fashion celebrates its 10th anniversary

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY 12 Fashion: Big Love 15 Health & Beauty: Make-up Masterclass HOME, GARDEN & MOTORING 36 Property: High End Property 41 Living the good life: Hester Cresswell,

specialist furniture painter 42 Motoring: Smaller engines, more power 47 Design Interiors: Spotlight on Mark Elliot FOOD & DRINK 55 Au Autumn Harvest 57 Eating Out: William Cecil; Opus Dai 59 Food news: The Cosy Club; The Lord Nelson; King’s

Head at Apethorpe; Scene Tapas Bar 63 Olive Branch recipe: Pumpkins ACTIVITIES, LEARNING & BUSINESS 24 Local Business: Stapleton & Son people news;

BigPinkHeart; Bluebird Care 27 The Outdoors: Autumn’s Simple Pleasures 29 Great Days Out: Durham 32 Arts Scene: Rutland Road Show; new Music

Academy; Pattern & Structure Art

Exhibition; Young Arts Day; Stuy Porter Antiques;

Beginners Photography Tutorials 35 Local Business: Oundle Travel winter sunshine;

Watson Mitchell; The Children’s Garden 38 History: The Battle of Losecoat Field 44 Local walk: Exton & Fort Henry 51 Meeting People 64 What’s On PERSPECTIVES 18 All about Stamford: Exploring the Stars;

Carrie’s Column 48 Writer’s spot: “Trample of approval” by Janie Edkins 22 Countryfile: Pumpkins 59 Ask Leo: Q & A on local history 70 Stamford people: John Fountain

Front cover image: The Stamford Attic team. Back Row (L to R): Lynne, Mel, Kathryn. Front row (L to R): Vanessa, Debbie, Marion.

Photo by Elli Dean Mob: 07932 055548 http://rutlandphotographer.co.uk/ Attic Fashion Show: Tickets on sale now Attic’s Fashion show is being held at The William Cecil Hotel on Thursday 6th October 6.30-10pm.

Tickets are on sale for £20 now at Attic in St Mary’s St, and include a welcome drink, a two course meal and a glass of wine.

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

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

STAMFORD Living OCTOBER 2011

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Au t N Coum e ll n / w EC W tio int n Er

www.barnack.co.uk

&

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0178105 7401

Visit Our shOp in barnack for an extensive range of clothes & wellies Barnack, Stamford. PE9 3DY

tel: 01780 740115

2 miles from Burghley House

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Editor’s selection A page of things and people that caught our eye this month

Collyweston Community Shop Just won big award - The Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) Local Food Heroes category, beating 90 other entrants. So much hard work, so well deserved.

A shirt from Paul Richman

You’re either going to love or hate this one – but every time I go past and see it in the window it makes me smile!! There are lots and lots of others if our tastes differ! Paul Richman, 1 Castle St, Stamford

Tootsies

Lisa is already expanding the Fit Feet Fish Spa in St Mary’s St (01780 480313) to include everything for feet – socks, tights, nail bar, reflexology – hence the name change to Tootsies

Hambleton Bakery Marmalade

When you absolutely, positively need a jam that’s as good as your Mum makes… it ain’t cheap (£3.60), but it is truly great. Other fruit jams too. 1 Ironmonger St.

Stamford Independent Travel

Celebrating two successful years of trading!! What a fun, knowledgeable team.

St Paul’s St (01780 763030)

STAMFORD Living OCTOber 2011

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1/3 Seite 70 mm x 297 mm

Motif 01 1/3 page advertisement 70 mm x 297 mm format

Let us take the hassle out of buying your new kitchen.

We offer a free design and quotation service, have expert installers, together with all the choices of appliances, sinks and accessories you could ever need, and at fantastic prices… so why not call in and see the specialists?

Full range of worktops and appliances

Super new displays just installed

Lakes lifetime guarantee

FORDHAM KITCHENS LTD 14 St. Mary’s St. Stamford, PE9 2DF - 01780 755996 www.youandbeyond.co.uk

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

01780 482892

WWW.THOMASSABO.COM

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

Is this the most valuable hearing aid in the world?

T Á

Im weißen Feld der Anzeige können Sie Ihre Händleradresse ergänzen.

You can enter your dealer address in the white box in the advertisement.

his may be the most expensive mumble? Life was so much easier. hearing aid in the world, but is To re-learn how to hear again it the most valuable? ... takes time. But with the right help, If you can’t hear it doesn’t matter guidance and hearing aids the at all whether your hearing aid is process is easy and will improve gold, silver or plastic. What does your quality of life tremendously. matter is that you can hear well What price for good hearing? with it.

Well maybe not the £25,000 for It’s not until it’s gone that the device opposite, but for as little you realise ... as a few hundred pounds you can If you find you can’t hear as start enjoying better hearing again... clearly as before, or you can’t hear in not too much to pay for such an noise as well as you should then you improvement in your quality of life. could be suffering from some Call Caroline or Joan Now on hearing loss. It’s only when you start to lose your hearing that you 01780 759133 for an immediate appointment: realise how valuable it is.

Widex Inteo ‘m’ series hearing aid & remote control - gold and diamond set, valued at £25,000

Remember when you enjoyed Healthy Hearing Ltd, sitting at your dinner table with all No.1 The Old Police House, your family... laughing and listening Cliff Road, STAMFORD to their news? Remember when the music on television wasn’t so annoying? When people didn’t

Healthy Hearing

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LOCAL NEWS

Upfront What’s new this month

Marie Curie Interior Design Day Tue 11th October hosted by The William Cecil Hotel

In support of Marie Curie Cancer Care come for a light lunch, a fantastic talk by Christine Boswell, interior designer for the hotel and guest speaker Jon Culverhouse, archivist for Burghley House, the inspiration behind the design. Guests will be invited to tour the hotel and grounds.

• Contact Stuart Wyle directly on 01476 576000 or email stuart.wyle@mariecurie.org.uk for tickets (£35 for one £60 for two), and further details.

Burghley Concert Fri Nov 25, Burghley House

On Friday 25 November the Great Hall at Burghley House will resound with the singing of the senior girls and lay clerks of Peterborough Cathedral Choir. Under the direction of Andrew Reid, the Cathedral’s Director of Music, the Choir will perform music which they recently performed on tour in the Loire Valley region, to standing ovations in the Cathedrals of Orleans, Blois, and, during their return journey through France, Amiens.

As well as singing in some of the most magnificent cathedrals in France, the girls opened the prestigious Great Organ Festival in the Cathédrale Saint Etienne in Peterborough’s twin town of Bourges. Although France once had a choral tradition similar to that in the UK, around 400 choir schools were lost in the French Revolution, and a professional standard of choral music is now only heard in the Cathédrale Notre Dame in Paris.

A llimited numbers of tickets at £20 (to include wine and canapés) are available from Jane Franks Tel: 01780 740004. The programme will feature choral works from the Middle Ages to the present day, including a number of well known pieces, Gregorian chant associated with some of the venues in which the Choir sang, a short twenty-first century work by Estonian minimalist composer Arvo Part written for Durham University Chamber Choir, and several pieces by French composers.

• This event is kindly sponsored by Duncan & Toplis, Hindmarch & Co, King West, Roythornes Solicitors. www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk

Marcia May footwear

This pic shows of course the Marcia May footwear team. Our sincere apologies for giving it the wrong caption in last month’s issue.

Back row (L-R) Fiona Swancott, Kersty Frost. Sitting (L-R) Samantha Drewery, Robyn Sinker, Rachel Williams. Not in picture: Sarah Pearce.

One Hell of a Challenge!

Four colleagues from Igloo Books in Sywell, Northamptonshire are undertaking a huge challenge next year - 7 Marathons in 7 Days in 7 Countries! The four workmates will run full marathons in 6 different European countries in 6 days, before finishing the mammoth week by completing the London Marathon. They aim to raise over £100k for the Northamptonshire branch of the Prince’s Trust. Earlier this year, they completed the Paris Marathon as the first step in a year-long training programme. On an unusually hot day in the French capital, John Styring (3hours 32min), Mark Burge (3.28), Dean Cornish (5.09) and Jonny Illingworth (4.15) all made it successfully around the course and enjoyed a celebratory smile in the shade of the Arc de Triomphe . The next challenge in training for the event is to run 2 marathons in 2 days. The team will run the Frankfurt Marathon on the 30th October, and the Dublin marathon the following day. Dean Cornish said: “Running the Paris marathon was extremely hard work! The thought of having to finish the Frankfurt marathon and rush to the airport only to run another one the next day fills me with dread!”

As well as requesting sponsorship money through friends, colleagues and relatives, the crew from Igloo Books will be also arranging various fundraising events, including a Charity Ball, details of which can be found at www. igloo-books.com/pages/7in7-charity-ball

Open the door to a world of sound!

If you’re over 60 years old there’s a 25% chance you have a hearing loss; if you’re over 75 years there’s a 44% chance. Amazingly only a quarter of people with a hearing loss have ever done anything about it.

Visit Healthy Hearing at their Open Day on Friday 14th October and take advantage of a free hearing assessment and demonstration of the new ‘Audeo SMART’ from Swiss hearing aid designers Phonak. The ‘Audeo SMART’ uses the latest in wireless technology and intelligent computing to allow people to enjoy life to the full with the hearing they have.

• Simply call 01780 759133 to book an appointment or call in on the day at Healthy Hearing Ltd, No 1 the Old Police House, Cliff Road, Stamford, PE9 1AB. Alternatively a free home visit can be arranged at a convenient time to suit you.

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LOCAL NEWS

Upfront more than travel

Kuoni has recently appointed more than travel as its partner in the region, a real coup for this local luxury independent travel specialist “I’ve always admired Kuoni,” says Helen Dooley, Partner in more than travel. “They are a real safe pair of hands for long haul travel. I can always be sure their prices will be competitive thanks to their global buying power, but more importantly I can always be sure my clients will be staying in the best rooms and given the red carpet treatment!”

“I just get that feeling from Kuoni that unusual itineraries and requests are relished by the product teams. We can go way above and beyond the brochure to create the unusual!

Being a part of the Kuoni team also gives me access to a huge amount of travel experience and a great depth of knowledge,” says Helen.

“We are very well travelled ourselves, but there will always be somewhere we don’t know.

With the back-up of the Kuoni team we can almost always find someone that’s been to a destination, that’s seen all the hotels, that knows the best place for sundowners!”

All this makes Kuoni a perfect partner for more than travel, who created their business out of a desire to provide exceptional service and exceptional products. There’s no such thing as off the shelf or “from the brochure” at more than travel!

“We feel very honoured to be offered this great opportunity to represent Kuoni in the Stamford, Peterborough, Rutland and Norfolk area (the next closest Kuoni stores are Milton Keynes and Cambridge). It’s a fantastic accolade for a new business such as ours,” says Richard Dooley, co-partner. “We knew from the moment we started talking that we had a lot in common and that our ethoses were compatible.”

More than travel has delightful offices just down the road from M&S, and will continue to offer a range of travel brands and tailor-made options in addition to Kuoni. Pop in and start dreaming of adventure!

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

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Browns Hairdressing and Beauty Manor

Sally Brown’s vision to run a successful salon group has certainly come to fruition since she opened her first salon in Olney in 1980. Still expanding, Browns have recently opened their sixth salon in Stamford.

Focused on fantastic customer service, they invest in their staff through constant education and a keen eye on retailing, telesales and management.

Browns Hairdressing on the ground floor is managed by Sam Lee and has a bright energetic, feel about it and an experienced team. Nicholas Rudd-Jones had his hair cut here and commented: “Sam cut my hair and I was mightily impressed. Lots of positive feedback, and I especially enjoyed the head massage whilst my hair was being washed. I will definitely be returning.”

Kara Potter runs The Beauty Manor which is situated above Browns and is part of the same business. It’s the second branch of The Beauty Manor, which is well established in Market Harborough, and Kara has nine year’s experience, using Guinot, Decleor, MD Formulations and HD brows.

MD Formulations will be available in Stamford exclusively at The Beauty Manor from November, the products and treatments are renowned for their advanced formulations which deliver gentle yet highly effective results.

Browns and the Beauty Manor are open from 9 am until 6 pm on a Monday and Saturday, and from Tuesday through to Friday from 9 am until 9 pm, so you can fit appointments around the most hectic schedule.

• 3 Red Lion Square, Stamford, PE9 2AJ Tel: 0844 999 3365 http://www.browns-hair.co.uk/ http://www.thebeautymanor.co.uk/

Physiotherapy and Sports Massage now available at Equilibrium

Equilibrium is now additionally able to offer Physiotherapy and Sports Massage with the appointment of Richard Worrall. Richard has a Master of Science Degree in Physiotherapy.

He has a wide range of skills in treating a variety of musculoskeletal conditions in patients of all ages and from all levels of activity. Not only is he an enthusiastic sportsman, having played at a high level of rugby union and cricket, but he’s also gained experience whilst working with a number of different athletes.

“Our aim is to use a professional, high quality and personal approach, tailoring treatment to suit the individual needs of each of our clients, whether this be through Physiotherapy or Sports Massage,” says Richard. Samantha, Equilibrium’s owner, added: “In order to achieve this and having listened to our clients’ requests we have decided to offer late night clinics on a Monday, Wednesday and Friday when appointments with Richard are available until 9pm. In addition to this, the Equilibrium team of therapists will also be offering treatments until 9pm on Wednesdays as well as their very busy Thursday nights with immediate effect.

• For further information or to book a Free of Charge consultation call 01780 757579. http:// www.equilibriumstamford.co.uk/

STAMFORD LIVING October 2011

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ts en ! m d nt de oi ee pp n A not

TOOTSIES

OF STAMFORD We have a new look and name to the Fit Feet Fish Spa.

We now offer the following Fit Feet Fish Spa Express Beauty Bar Reflexology (Tue & Sun only) Foot care Range

50% OFF

ALL SERVICES www.browns-hair.co.uk

Now also stocking tights & socks Did you know we do?

• Kids Parties – Tiny to Teenage Toes • Pamper Nights or Days • Sunday Brunch Beauty Bar

Treatments start from just £5 Tel: 01780 480313 - Email: fitfeetfishspa@gmail.com or tootsiesofstamford@hotmail.com

41 St Mary’s Street, Stamford. PE9 2DS (above Marcia May Shoes) Winter opening times: Mon-Sat: 10am-5pm Sundays: Pamper brunch or group bookings only

20% OFF

ALL SERVICES

Decleor, Guinot & Md Formulations Face & Body Jessica Manicure & Pedicure, HD Brows Loyalty Card Available

www.thebeautymanor.co.uk

Browns Hairdressing Group, 3 Red Lion Square, Stamford 0844 999 3365

Offers End 30.11.11 Terms & Conditions Apply

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Advertisement Feature

Your Dream Lodge can come true tomorrow

Want to get away from it all but can’t face a long trek every Friday evening? Want to be ‘at home’ in a tranquil setting where you can also enjoy a dizzying array of water sports and outdoor sports just when you feel like it? Then a Lodge or Leisure Home at Tallington Lakes could be just the thing for you.

Tallington Lakes Tallington Lakes, only a stone’s throw way, has everything that you would want for the perfect getaway. Homes looking over lakes, swans swimming past your window, a tranquil 200+ acre park to explore.

But on those days when you’re feeling active or have friends to stay who can’t sit still, then there is a huge swimming pool to enjoy, fishing, windsurfing, sailing, water boarding, waterskiing, dry ski, a climbing wall, cycling, the list goes on.

And then add to that the sports equipment, shops and a restaurant.

Tallington Lakes has all the facilities that you would expect on a luxury holiday, all on your doorstep. Visit www.thedreamlodgegroup.co.uk to find out more.

The Dream Lodge Group The Dream Lodge Group is a very well established and respected national business that has recently gone into partnership with Tallington Lakes to offer Lodges and Leisure Homes on the park.

The Dream Lodge Group makes the business of owning a Lodge very straightforward; helping you sell a home if necessary through their ‘Moving made easy’ scheme, assisting

with financial packages and perhaps most reassuringly of all guaranteeing you an 8% return on your property if you decide to let it (plus amazingly you get to live in it for eight weeks a year as well).

The Lodges You know how you sometimes look at your own home and think ‘I wish the space was better planned, I wish the fittings were more contemporary, wouldn’t it be nice to have a huge picture window from the living area onto a decking?’ Well, a Dream Lodge brings all of those dreams true, it has all of them.

You will be simply amazed by the space, the intelligence of the design, the quality of the fittings – it’s ready to move into tomorrow and it has the ‘WOW’ factor that will so impress family and friends.

Prices start at £140,000, and the Lodges typically have 2-3 bedrooms. Every Lodge has a glorious view over the lake, a sizeable decking area and parking right outside. Each is individual in terms of layout, finishes and aspect. All come with furniture and fittings, manufactured in the UK. A great place to get away at the weekend without the hassle of a long trip, a great place to

spend your holidays, a great place to entertain family and friends, a great place to enjoy the better things in life.

The Leisure Homes Leisure Homes, slightly smaller in size, represent a great value for money way of enjoying Tallington Lakes, with prices starting at £48,000.

Once again, you will be amazed when you take a look inside by the modern feel, quality of fittings and efficient use of space. ‘Light, spacious and contemporary’ is the immediate feel that they give. For an outlay you can afford you can enjoy a completely new lifestyle.

• For more information of the Lodges and Leisure Homes at Tallington Lakes call Jayne Knights on 01778 348566 or 07557 366698 or visit www.thedreamlodgegroup.co.uk

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PV Solar

Commercial and domestic glazing, soffit and facia specialists.

Specialists

01780 765151 www.tgukwindows.com

Doors • Windows Soffits & Facias • Conservatories

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Call now for your FREE survey

Showroom located ay 62-63 Scotgate, Stamford PE9 2YB

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T: 01780 755444 Showroom: 62-63 Scotgate, Stamford PE9 2YB www.sunroofenergy.co.uk

sunroofenergy@live.co.uk 11

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FASHION

BIG LOVE Sally Stillingfleet has been gathering new Autumn fashions designed with figure solutions at the forefront

J

ulia Weaver inspired this story with her enthusiasm and determination to bring a new range of clothing designed for the curvier lady to 9A St George’s Square. As we all know the high street has been slow to catch onto this burgeoning trend and demand for larger waistlines has increased over the last few years! A size 14 is Britain’s average size and women feel there is nothing for them when it comes to fashion and great style. Julia has introduced One O One to complement her existing ranges and was “thrilled” when she found it in Paris. Customers previously commented they would love to buy her clothes but felt they were too big for them. Now this range caters up to a generous size 20 and Bronwen my model looks fantastic in the range designed to layer, mix and match. The pieces are made from fantastic quality fabrics and are very “dramatic!” Julia explained. Cavells also go up to an 18 in some styles and agree that curves should be celebrated. They stock Marc Cain, D’Exterior, Crea, Damsell in a Dress and Oui Moments. Jaeger has always catered sensitively for ladies’ figures and has reliable pieces which flatter and skim. Janet, especially takes great pride in advising her clients and the whole Jaeger team offer excellent customer service and outfitting. White Stuff’s Stamford shop routinely caters up to a size 20 in most of their styles, their winter knits are particularly strong this year. Shoes and boots are all from Marcia May, who go up to a size 42 in fashion forward styles, which look great. Gabor in particular create their boots with fuller calves in mind.

Cavells Marc Cain grey animal print dress £279 Marc Cain camel coat £465 Mascaro shoes £189 Mulberry handbag £795 and rabbit fur scarf £299

Jaeger Plum drop waisted dress with two pockets £180 Silk scarf £99 Gabor flat brown buckled boots £170 from Marcia May

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9A St George’s Square One O One black dress / pinafore with knitted detail £157 Cobalt blue long sleeved T shirt £36 Gabor high heeled boots from Marcia May £169.99

9A St George’s Square One O One long cotton shirt £115 Stretchy plain black pants £40 Leather belt £85 from Jaeger, flat Gabor suede pumps with jewel detail £89.99

9A St George’s Square One O One black and white stretch tunic with sheer sleeves £84 Black pants £40, Gabor pumps from Marcia May £89.99

Many thanks to the Crème team for doing the hair and make-up and to my model Bronwen Tel. 01572 723823 Photography by Elli Dean www.ellideanphotography.co.uk White Stuff Brooklyn knit grey skirt £49.95 Sedgwick cardigan £65

CONTACTS

9a St. George’s Square, Stamford.

Tel: 01780 757660 Cavells – 16 Mill Street, Oakham.

Tel: 01572 770372 Jaeger – St Mary’s Street, Stamford.

Tel: 01780 753611 Marcia May Shoes – 41 St. Mary’s St, Stamford. Tel: 01780 766608 White Stuff – 5 High Street, Stamford.

Tel: 01780 752057 Sly – 4 St. Mary’s Passage, Stamford.

Tel: 01780 482870 As well as stocking fantastic and affordable shoes, bags and accessories Belinda is keen to extend Sly 2’s 14 plus sizes. Pre-owned clothes are welcome, as they always sell fast!

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Individual clothes at

a unique local shopping experience At Attic you’ll find a treasure trove of gorgeous and original clothes, shoes and accessories, all lovingly and personally sourced.

Our aim is to help you to put together a truly original look at a budget that suits, mixing quirky designer wear with essential everyday items.

Almost Famous Red Knitted Dress £125

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

NEW NEW NEW NEW NEW NEW NEW NEW Treatments for pigmentation, acne & ageing now available…

• Chemical Peeling • IPL Photo Rejuvenation

33 St Mary’s Street, Stamford. PE9 2DS. T: 01780 766667 www.atticfashion.co.uk

Introductory offers available for October Please call for details - 01780 763768 www.renaissancebeauty.co.uk

October Offers 20% off all Cowshed 10% off Ren Facials Mama Mio Shrink to fit Cellulite Cream BAZAR

BEST OF THE

BEST

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

The Original and Best home for HD Brows in Stamford Serving over 600 people for perfect brows

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

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

Acqua di Parma • Carthusia • Cowshed • Neom • Burt’s Bee’s • Dr Hauschka • Ren • Mama Mio • Creed • Miller Harris • E Coudray • T – le Clerc • Inika • This Works

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Health and Beauty

Make-up Master Class Genevieve Potter learns some new tricks for creating flawless make-up, from leading make-up artist Liza Smith

Is it ok to emphasise both my eyes and lips?

The 1940s inspired trend for red lips and black, flicked eyeliner can be a gorgeous look, but it tends to work because it looks quite “clean”, whereas the combination of ‘smoky’ eyes and bright lips might look good in a magazine spread but in real life is not flattering. However, if your eye size and shape suits the ‘smoky’ look it is fine to wear a lip gloss or lipstick, but keep it very light and close to your natural lip colour.

L

iza Smith has been a professional makeup artist for over a decade with a wealth of experience including magazine shoots and catwalk shows (Liza’s credits include a stint at this year’s London Fashion Week for GHD and the Amanda Wakeley catwalk show at Royal Ascot).

However Liza is probably best known for making brides look their most beautiful and she relishes what she describes as the ‘honour’ of making every bride look her most radiant. Liza comments:“On the wedding day itself I try and help everyone relax and I’ll also work with the official photographer to see how the make-up is looking through the camera lens. The moment when a bride is ready and waiting in her dress is so special and I love having played a part in it.”

“A good make-up artist will work with your features to create a look that’s natural but polished. Some of my clients love the way Kate Middleton did her wedding make-up, but dark eyeliner is not a look for everyone. I also advise brides not to use too much fake tan, light body make-up usually looks much better in photos.”

Here Liza gives us some of her top tips for creating perfectly natural make-up How do I achieve the perfect ‘smoky’ eye?

My advice is to build up colour and coverage very gradually using the right brushes, which are essential. A cotton bud can also be used effectively to reduce the intensity of the colour.

For a dramatic look curl your natural lashes and apply fake eyelashes – but once they are on always add a tiny bit of mascara, concentrating on your natural lashes.

Eyes should always be “framed” with wellgroomed brows and I’d recommend HD (high definition) brows – one trend which is definitely worth following.

My eye shadow always creases, what can I do to stop it?

This can be a problem for mature skins in particular. When buying an eye shadow look for a silicone based formula (Chanel does a great one called Illusion D’Ombre which is luminous and long-wearing). A good primer will also help prevent this happening.

My foundation seems to look patchy in colour and a bit “caked” – what can I do to look more flawless?

If foundation looks “dirty” or patchy it’s generally due to the skin underneath. To achieve a flawless finish, skin needs to be properly primed; cleansed, toned and well moisturised. Regular facials and microdermabrasion can make a dramatic difference to the texture of the skin too.

Liza Smith http://www.professionalmakeup-artist.com/ Mob: 07788 421401

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BUSINESS NEWS

LOCAL BUSINESS WIN YOUR DREAM CHRISTMAS WITH QUEENSGATE – WORTH HUNDREDS OF POUNDS With Christmas just around the corner, it is time to start feeling festive and start the seasonal shop as Queensgate has once again got Christmas all wrapped up.

F

rom Monday 28 November through to 23 December, shoppers will be able to shop until 9pm weekdays and enjoy free parking after 5.30pm, to find that perfect present or party outfit. Plus, to kick-start the seasonal spirit, the centre will be revealing its brand new Christmas decorations at the annual Christmas lights switch-on event on 3 November, followed by a bumper programme of funfilled festive activity in the run up to the big day.

Solar Meridian – SuperEfficient Hybrid Solar Pv Systems

Electricity prices are rising and climate change is a growing problem so there has never been a better time to invest in solar electricity.

Solar electricity is generated by solar panels fitted to your roof; these panels convert light to electricity. The electricity generated then passes through an inverter that changes it to the normal 240v AC used in your home; everything you generate is recorded by a special meter that you read every quarter and get paid for all you generate.

Solar PV panels convert light into electricity, an average panel converts about 13% of the light into electrical power but Solar Meridian fit super-efficient hybrid panels that convert over 20% of the light into electrical energy. This extra efficiency makes a huge difference to the energy produced over 25 years.

Solar Meridian panels also out-perform other types in low light levels and also when the sun is at its hottest. And they use software to maximise the overall efficiency of the system, especially the inverters and cables where there can be considerable energy loss.

How does solar power make you money?

1. Solar panels generate electricity from sunlight. The electricity generated is recorded by a special meter fitted in your property.

You get paid for all the electricity you produce even if you use it.

2. You can use the electricity as it is generated in daylight hours. Whatever you use means you are not paying for it on your normal electricity bill. Your electricity bill could be halved!

3. You also get paid an export tariff.

It is easy to have a PV system fitted with Solar Meridian. They will go through the entire process with you from enquiry, design to completion. They design and install systems for all types of buildings; domestic, commercial, and farm buildings.

Solar Meridian PV installation teams are made up of highly qualified and experienced electricians. The company is a member of the REAL assurance scheme and MCS accredited and abide by their fair trade policies for renewable energy companies.

• If you are interested in a super efficient solar PV system please contact Solar Meridian for a free no obligation survey and quote on 01476 569669 or email contact@solarmeridian. com website; www.solarmeridian.com

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A truly incredible prize to be won Better still, in keeping with the season of goodwill, Queensgate is offering the chance for one lucky reader to win their very own dream Christmas.

For a fantastically foodie Christmas, the jam-packed prize includes everything you could need for the festive feast from Waitrose. From a tasty turkey to all the trimmings, crackers to champagne, mince pies to marzipan, Waitrose’s wonderful selection of gourmet goodies will bring that little bit of luxury to your table this year.

To ensure your decor dazzles, John Lewis has provided a Christmas tree and a selection of decorations, including beautiful baubles, luminous lights and stylish stockings. Plus, to add that all-important traditional touch, the prize includes a beautiful wreath from popular florist, Fleur.

Plus, for the ultimate self-indulgence, LUSH has added to the wish-list with its ‘Northern Lights’ gift set of gorgeous goodies, guaranteed to make sure you sparkle all season long. While for a treat for the feet, the winner will receive a £50 voucher from Schuh to spend on new shoes to get in the seasonal swing.

But that’s still not quite a Christmas wrap! The jam-packed prize package also includes a selection of Christmas cards and wrapping paper from Paperchase.

Making for the festive finale, the winner will receive a Queensgate gift card worth £100 to spend in more than 90 shops throughout the shopping centre including John Lewis, M&S, Waitrose, Pandora, Republic and more.

So, if you would like Santa to come early this year and have a chance to win this fantastic prize, simply answer the following question – you’d be crackers not to!

On what date will Queensgate be holding its popular Christmas switch-on event this year? a) 2 November b) 3 November c) 7 November Entry by email only via Stamford Living’s website at http://www. bestlocalliving.co.uk/ out of a hat. Closing date for entries is Friday October 28th, 2011. The winner will be the first correct entry picked out of a hat.

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PERSPECTIVES

ALL ABOUT STAMFORD Exploring the stars

Heesom’s Top Ten

Richard Barry salutes two pioneers

What do Edwin Hubble and Liz Heesom have in common? Both made amazing discoveries about the stars. Hubble measured the rate at which galaxies of stars are receding, permitting the first accurate estimate of the age of the known Universe. Heesom discovered that Stamford has more “two starred” listed buildings than any other town in England. Liz – doyenne of St Mary’s Place – made this remarkable discovery while researching material for a recent planning appeal.

Number of Density

Grade II* (Grade II* per Town listed buildings Population thousand) Stamford, Lincs Saffron Walden, Essex King’s Lynn, Norfolk Winchester, Hants Tewkesbury, Gloucs Cirencester, Gloucs Chichester, W.Sussex Totnes, Devon Ludlow, Salop Faversham, Kent

90 56 45 44 36 28 26 25 23 17

20,000 15,000 40,000 40,000 10,000 19,000 24,000 23,000 10,000 18,000

4.5 3.7 1.1 1.1 3.6 1.5 1.1 1.1 2.3 0.9

Among English towns Stamford not only has the highest number of Grade II* buildings by a large margin, it also has the highest density when expressed relative to population. Some cities (Oxford, for example) do have more Grade II* buildings than Stamford but – after correcting for their much greater population -- Stamford’s density still remains the highest in the nation.

means that nationally only about one building in a thousand is Grade II*.

Stamford has 8,000 buildings, so visitors might expect to see about eight extra-special buildings in town. Instead they have their socks knocked off by ninety of them! No wonder everyone agrees that Stamford is the finest stone town in England.

How listing works Listings come in three flavours, officially defined as follows: Grade I buildings are of exceptional interest Grade II* buildings are particularly important buildings of more than special interest.

Grade II buildings are of special interest, warranting every effort to preserve them.

About 2% of the nation’s buildings are listed – a total of 374,000. Of these, 92% are Grade II, 5.5% are Grade II* and 2.5% are Grade I. This

Prestige versus Hassle Owning a listed building imposes a responsibility of care, which is likely to involve extra hassle -- costing money and restricting one’s freedom to make changes. So when you discover that the house you’re hoping to buy is a listed building, does that increase or decrease your enthusiasm for the purchase? Of 147 estate agents surveyed by English Heritage in 1999, 83% felt that listing increases the value of a residence (although it tends to decrease the value of a commercial building). Evidently, prestige trumps hassle.

Carrie’s Column Carrie Lloyd is a television advertising producer working in London but living in Stamford, with a penchant for seeking out the tales and titbits of the local Stamford life

Not All is Lost A little girl of 4 years old was distraught when her Hello Kitty ring flew off in the River Welland whilst feeding the ducks. An elderly couple came over to try and cheer her and her mother up, which did the trick at the thought of the ducks using it as wedding ring. But what really worked was when the couple came back 10 minutes later with a fishing net they had just purchased at Harrison and Dunn. The ring is now back safely with the little girl. Stories like these make me believe that there still is a friendly community in Stamford.

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Quote of the Month “If you think you’re too small to make a difference, you’ve never spent the night with a mosquito.” - African saying

Tip

of the Month Since the delightful opening of the William Cecil - I’ve discovered three things. You can take your dog into the bar area. The best room to stay in is either room 20 (AKA Voewood) with a porcelain standing bath tub, or room 4 (AKA Ninth Earl) with a four poster bed. Thirdly, by the time this prints, I will have booked a golf buggy ride (for residents only) to take my girlfriends to Burghley Horse Trials. Make sure you book early next year and at your destination, take a nice sip of Veuve in their Indian style tent.

Don’t mind if I do.

Ponderments

Is it me, or is the high street turning into a mini shopping centre? For as much as we love the access to some of our favourite clothing stores within such proximity, let’s not get like all the rest.

I’ve decided to make a concerted effort to drink at our independent locals, Beans or Blacks for coffee, Fine Foods for their custom made birthday cake, Arch Label Agency that still make it possible for me to own Choos in the recession, Harrison and Dunn for everything I could possibly need in my kitchen, Rapport, You and Chez Soi for those homeware gifts and indulgent treats. It’s the independents that make me proud of Stamford shopping. There is nowhere like Stamford boutique shopping, so let’s keep it going. Is Stamford becoming something it shouldn’t be?

• If you have anything you would like Carrie to talk about, or anything you wish to raise awareness of in the Stamford areas, please tweet her on @carriegracey or contact her by email on future.perfect@btinternet. com

STAMFORD Living OCTOber 2011

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T

Clothing, Shoes & Accessories

p

LOL A CRUZ

care,

bobi RINASCIMENTO M A D E I N I T A LY

QUEENE & COUNTRY

ILEX

ANE

ONAL

PE9 2LB

VANILLA MOON

JUST BALLERINAS

Telephone: 01780 754413 2-4 The George Hotel Mews Stamford, PE9 2LB

Opening Hours Opening Hours

Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm

5pm Sundays & Bank Holidays 11am Sundays & Bank Holidays 11am- 4pm - 4pm

ours Shopping by Appointment After Hours Shopping by Appointment

Brands include: Barbour, Schõffel, Holland Cooper, Aigle, Dubarry, Levi’s RM Williams, Superdry, Rampant Sporting, Icebreaker plus many more...

South St

•

Oakham • LE15 6BG • Tel: 01572 772477

SHOP ONLINE AT www.cavellscountry.co.uk

Be Inspired!

Be Inspired!

On Saturday 8th October we are holding a stock clearance sale to make space for exciting new collections.

Come and browse for amazing bargains!!

Visit us Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, 8 St Mary’s Hill Stamford Lincs PE9 2DP Tel: 01780 767878

Visit us www.siriusjewellery.co.uk Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, 8 St Mary’s Hill Stamford Lincs PE9 2DP Tel: 01780 767878 www.siriusjewellery.co.uk

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PERSPECTIVES

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STAMFORD LIVING October 2011

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A NENE HARVEST Britain’s last traditional eel trapper lives and works on the River Nene. Dave Phillips ventures into Fen country to meet him…

Photos: Dave Phillips

T

here’s barely a ripple to disturb the surface as the battered boat makes its way along the Old River Nene. Peter Carter is on his way to work, doing the same job that his ancestors have done for over 500 years. But today it’s a job that’s in danger of disappearing, for Peter is Britain’s last traditional eel trapper. “We’ve traced the family tree back to 1475 and we’ve all lived off the Fens,” says Peter, 46, who, like all those previous generations, has lived in and worked in the endlessly flat landscape east of Peterborough.

There used to be scores of eel catchers, trapping the mysterious, serpent-like migratory fish – many of which were sent to the capital to feed Londoners’ voracious appetite for jellied eels. But in recent decades eel stocks declined and eel catching was no longer so lucrative.

Gradually the old eel catchers faded away and weren’t replaced by a new generation.

Except for Peter, that is.

The stretch of the Nene where Peter plies his trade bears little relation to the wide reaches that flow through Peterborough, for this is the old course of the river, abandoned more than two centuries ago when the main river was diverted down a straight new channel to hasten floodwater down to the sea. Today, the Old Nene is a quiet backwater, but it is the perfect environment for scavenging eels, which thrive in the sluggish, stagnant waters, where they seek out their food – dead fish and animals – by smell. Peter baits his home-made wicker traps with road kill – dead animals he picks up from the side of the road. The traps are left overnight in the river until Peter returns the next day.

Traditional skills Just like his ancestors, Peter uses punts and boats to bait and check his traps. But he does so in a very different landscape. The Fens were impenetrable watery wilderness until the 17th Century when Dutch experts were called in to begin the long process of draining them.

It was a tough life for the Fen men of old – malaria was rampant in the steaming swamps – but at least there was food a-plenty. Millions of ducks and wild geese were there for the taking, while the waterways teemed with fish – especially eels. “Eels were the currency of the Fens in those days,” says Peter. “Villages would pay their taxes in eels. The stone that was used to build Ely Cathedral was bought with eels.

There was water everywhere and every drop had eels in it.”

Those rivers and drains were the highways of the day in the Fens, where proper roads didn’t exist until the drainage efforts were stepped up in the 19th Century

by Victorians, who used powerful drainage pumps to turn the damp meadows into arable land. Wheat and barley grew where generations of Fen people had earned a living from catching fish and fowl.

As the water dwindled, so did the eels – and the eel catchers. Most of the wildfowlers and fishermen turned to agriculture for employment instead, although the Carter family pressed on, keeping the old traditions alive.

“My grandfather was one of 21 children.

They all had to do their bit to put food on the table and eels were free and nutritious.

Grandad was a successful eel fisherman and he did it all his life – and he passed his secrets down to me.”

As a young boy, Peter hated school. “I was dyslexic, hated lessons and was always skiving off to escape into the Fens and be with granddad, catching eels. When I left school it seemed natural to be an eel fisherman and I’ve done it ever since.”

A changing world But although he appears to have a very traditional lifestyle, Peter’s life has changed a great deal. When he started his career as professional fisherman 30 years ago, eel stocks were plentiful. But they have plummeted by 80 per cent since the 1980s. Peter believes this is due to the modernisation of the drainage sluices across the Fens, with leaky old wooden lock gates replaced by efficient steel ones.

Peter explains: “Eels are migratory. They are born thousands of miles away in an area of the Atlantic Ocean known as the Sargasso Sea and the baby eels, known as elvers, are carried to Europe on the Gulf Stream. They then enter the river estuaries and swim upstream. There used to be lots of gaps in the old wooden gates for the elvers to squeeze through, but very few can get through now. When I began eel fishing, I could catch 200 in a night, easy. These days it’s a very good night if I get 40 or 50.”

The decline was enough to see off the few remaining eel fishermen – apart from

Peter, that is. Like the countless generations of Carters before him, he trusted to luck in times of change and carried on regardless, looking for new waters in which to place his traditional traps.

TV stardom Ironically, it was the modern age of technology that came to his rescue – namely the electronic media and its thirst for good stories. Five years ago he agreed to give a demonstration on eel catching at an exhibition at the Wetland Centre at nearby Welney. It was attended by HM the Queen, as well as the television cameras, and after that his phone hardly stopped ringing.

Since then, he has appeared on Countryfile, Time Team, Escape to the Country, Flog It! and even the One Show, where he turned up at BBC Television centre in London with a bucketful of eels and a repertoire of anecdotes.

The small shop and workshop in which he sells eels and makes traditional willow traps, nets, baskets and other traditional country goods attracts visitors from all over the world. He’s also in demand to give talks to schools, colleges and WI groups, as well as country shows. His life has changed in many ways, but he loves every moment. “I love meeting people and talking to them,” says Peter. “It also helps me keep eel trapping alive. People wouldn’t know about this traditional way of life otherwise.”

The future that looks brighter than it did a decade ago. The Environment Agency is now installing ingenious “eel ladders” at lock gates across the Fens to allow the migrating fish to clamber through the locks, so stocks should improve in the coming years.

Peter is determined to continue with his traditional lifestyle. “I haven’t got a son to continue the family tradition, but my 13-year-old daughter, Rhianna, loves coming out with me in the boat,” he says.

“Her ambition is to be a zoologist and if she decides to do that I’ll support her all the way, but if she eventually wants to be an eel catcher I’ll be just as proud of her. As for me, I’ll never retire – why should I? I don’t see this as a job, I love every moment of it.”

Peter Carter’s shop and workshop is at 8-9 Church Terrace, Outwell, near Wisbech PE14 8RQ. Tel: 01945 772157. Besides selling eels and traps, Peter also weaves baskets from willow that he grows himself – anything from a picnic hamper to a willow coffin. “I’m open every day apart from Thursday from about 10am to 5pm… but phone first to make sure I’m not out in the Fens,” says Peter.

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countryfile

HALLOWEEN PUMPKINS

More pumpkins than anywhere else in Europe are grown on 500 acres just east of Spalding. Sue Lee and Jean Orpin have been finding out about the October demand for pumpkins Why Halloween?

The word for a pumpkin derives from a Greek word for a large melon and they appear in ancient stories. The first account of someone being turned into a pumpkin is in a political satire written by Seneca in the 1st century. This may be the origin of the pumpkin coach in the 17th century story which we are familiar with as ‘Cinderella’. Seneca’s story was set in October but a more likely link between pumpkins and Halloween comes with the enormous Irish emigration to America following the potato famine in the mid-19th century.

In Ireland, lights made from beets, turnips and swedes were placed in windows on All Hallow’s Eve (Halloween) representing the souls of loved ones. These lights were also strongly associated with an Irish myth about Stingy Jack. This Jack cheated the Devil into agreeing not to accept his soul so when he died he was not welcome in Heaven or Hell and was set to wander the night with a burning coal. He put the coal in a hollow turnip and has wandered the world as the ghostly Jack O’ Lantern ever since. When the Irish settled in America they soon found that the pumpkin was a much better container for Jack’s coal.

Spalding’s Pumpkin Patch David Bowman Pumpkins Ltd began more by accident than anything else. The farm was growing marrows and other vegetables for pickles when it was decided to try a few pumpkins. The moist, silty soil of the area proved

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ideal so gradually all their land has been turned over to growing pumpkins for Halloween. They not only provide pretty much all the supermarket trade in this country but sell across Europe including France, Spain and Ireland.

Most of the pumpkins are sown directly with seed although a few acres of seedlings go in too. Planting takes place in May when the soil has warmed sufficiently. The aim is for each plant to produce one large pumpkin – if it produces two then they will be small. The company continues to experiment with different varieties but at the moment the main variety is Harvest Moon which produces a good sized, distinctly orange pumpkin in 3 to 4 months.

The major requirement for the Halloween market is that the pumpkins are clean and this is done mechanically. Pests are not much of a problem because the skins are tough –

Spalding Pumpkin Parade October 7th David Bowman Pumpkins Ltd has been instrumental in fostering this event now in its 11th year. They give pumpkins to local schools and the carved lanterns are carried in a pumpkin parade led by the Pumpkin Coach. It is a family event that caters for all ages with live music, children’s fancy dress, a fun fair and market stalls. The finale is the parade and a firework display.

according to Mr Bowman, “No self-respecting pest would try to get into a pumpkin”.

Up to a hundred people are employed in cleaning, collecting and boxing. The crop is gathered in September then stored for distribution in October. The pumpkins must be kept warm and David Bowman’s purpose-built storage and packing area has recently had to be extended – not surprising as they process over 2 million pumpkins. There is not much sleep to be had by Mr Bowman and his wife at this time of year.

Waste Not, Want Not? It saddens Mr Bowman that most of what he grows will go to waste so this year when you make your pumpkin lantern, don’t waste what you remove. Pumpkins seeds are full of goodness and the flesh makes a soup very suitable for Bonfire Night.

Pumpkin Seeds Remove seeds, wash and dry.

Warm a little butter or olive oil & coat seeds.

Heat for 2mins at a time in microwave, until light gold.

Sprinkle with salt or other seasonings.

Pumpkin Soup Roughly chop pumpkin flesh Just cover with chicken or vegetable stock Simmer gently 15-20mins until tender Liquidise & add seasonings e.g. salt, pepper, paprika, ginger, chilli or nutmeg Add cream and reheat or add cream to serve (See Sean Hope’s version on Page 63)

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Christmas Parties

Christmas Festivities at The Crown Hotel, Stamford

• • • • •

Christmas Party Lunch from £16.50 to £19.95 per person Christmas Party Dinner from £19.95 to £29.50 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! Sunday Lunch and à la carte menu Christmas party rates are dependant on the day of the week.

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

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

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

Christmas Party Lunch at £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 £29.95 per person • New Year’s Day – Back to normal! Sunday Lunch and à la carte menu To make a booking call 01780 756321 and ask for Anna or Simon.

21 Stamford Road, Easton on the Hill, PE9 3NS t. 01780 756321 reservations@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 £69.95 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 £29.95 per person • New Year’s Day – Back to normal! Sunday Lunch and à la carte menu To make a booking call 01780 740250 and ask for Germaine or 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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BUSINESS NEWS

LOCAL BUSINESS Finding the right kind of at-home care for your loved ones just got easier

Nick Fluck

Stapleton & Son celebrates two landmark achievements

Stapleton & Son Partner Nick Fluck has been a Member of the Council of the Law Society (the National Governing Body for the Solicitors’ profession) since 2005. He was elected as Deputy Vice President of the Law Society on 14th July this year. He will progress to be Vice President in 2012 and will become President of the Law Society in 2013. During this period Nick will continue to be a Partner at Stapletons.

This is a tremendous honour not only for Nick personally and Stapletons, but also for the towns of Stamford and Boston (Nick’s home) and the surrounding area. For his year in office Nick will be the leader and spokesman for the Legal Profession in England and Wales and will represent the interests of England and Wales’ qualified Solicitors throughout the world.

This year also sees James Buxton celebrating 30 years as a Solicitor at the firm.

He joined the Practice in May 1981 and became a Partner in 1983 and Senior Partner in 1987.

During this period he has been involved in many different aspects of the Law and has enjoyed his position as Solicitor and Clerk to the Governors of Stamford Endowed Schools which has combined his interests in law and education (he is also a qualified teacher).

James has absolutely no intention of retiring and intends to continue to be active in the Practice for many years to come!

• Stapleton & Son, 1 Broad Street, Stamford, PE9 1PD, Tel: 01780 751226 http://www. stapletons.com/

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Local couple Tim Carey and Leisa MacKenzie, have opened a branch of Bluebird Care, the UK’s leading provider of at-home care, in the heart of Stamford.

“We’ve both experienced the trauma of trying to find the right level of care for relatives,” says, company director, Tim Carey, 40. “Two years ago, I broke my neck in an accident, I was lucky - thanks to dedicated staff at Addenbrooke’s Hospital – I’ve made a full recovery. But for many weeks afterwards I needed a lot of help at home, and we struggled to find the right kind of care, at the right level, anywhere.”

It was that experience that led the couple to open BlueBird Care. Their office is based in St Mary’s Hill, and will provide at-home care for residents in Stamford, Oakham, Uppingham, Peterborough and surrounding villages.

“The dedicated service we provide helps families when they need it the most,” says Tim. “We will be able to provide professional health and nursing care for their loved ones in the comfort of their own home.”

He and his partner, Leisa have been joined by experienced care manager, Rebecca Bland. With more than 13 years working in the health and social care sector, Rebecca specialises in providing care for terminally ill patients, and those with dementia.

Rebecca said: “My experience means I understand totally not just what the patient needs, but how the family want them to be cared for.

Bluebird Care offers a range of care packages for customers. It differs from other athome care providers by offering packages which start from 15 minute home visits - up to comprehensive live in care.

Each care package is bespoke to the individual customer. To ensure the highest quality service, a care supervisor visits every customer to understand the level of care needed, and wanted. Care at home doesn’t just mean helping people to get up or go to bed but can also include shopping, companion services and day trips to help maintain and independent enriched life.

Bluebird Care is always looking for dedicated carers to join its growing team.

• To find out more about the service, or if you are looking for a rewarding career, then contact Rebecca on 01780 480881 or email LeisaMacKenzie@bluebirdcare.co.uk

Big Pink Heart The Rutland based community organisation BigPinkHeart is seeking to help mend and build back up the social positive behaviour some people believe we are losing in our society.

By carrying out workshops in the local community, prisons, events in schools and pre-schools as well as launching the first inter-generational book club, You, Me … We, BigPinkHeart is helpfully reminding people of the meaning of that little word that we seem to be forgetting. Respect.

Within their Respect Theatre Workshops, people have time to reflect on their own behaviour towards themselves and then towards each other. Our thoughts direct our actions and those taking part in any of BigPinkHeart’s activities will have time to think about how those actions affect others and hence the impact they have on our communities.

The workshops and events have proved to be successful, with people giving more consideration to their thoughts before acting on them. People who don’t often get a chance to be heard, finally find a way to express themselves in a respectful manner and they are listened to.

12th October sees BigPinkHeart’s National Day of Respect campaign.

• To find out more and to support BigPinkHeart you can visit their website and register at http://www.bigpinkheart.co.uk/hello.asp

STAMFORD Living OCTOber 2011

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at

• Has recently qualified for the rigorously externally assessed Conveyancing Quality Scheme run by the Law Society.

• Along with our outstanding personal support for all our clients at reasonable prices, this Quality Mark confirms we offer an excellent residential conveyancing service.

• In addition we have vast experience, proven ability and extensive local knowledge and contacts in all Commercial and Landlord and Tenant matters.

Don’t forget the wide range of other legal services we offer which include: WILLS & ProbAte • eLDerLy CLIent CAre & ServICeS MAtrIMonIAL & FAMILy LAW • eDuCAtIon & CHArItIeS LAW AgrICuLturAL • eMPLoyMent & generAL buSIneSS ADvICe. With the advantage of our Connect 2 Law Membership, we provide for our clients a complete range of legal services.

1 Broad Street, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 1PD Tel: 01780 751226 Fax: 01780 766407 Email: enquiries@stapletons.com www.stapletons.com

Care Visits at Home Good Old Fashioned Service

A comprehensive care at home service

Call our professional team on 01780 480881 Our staff

Contact us

Our staff are caring, trained to give medication and police checked.

Call our professional team on 01780 480881 or visit us online at www.bluebirdcare.com or call in for a chat. 2 St Mary’s Hill, Stamford. PE9 2DR

Alternative

What we offer

Bluebird Care offers a realistic cost effective alternative to residential care. With familiar friends, relatives and possessions around, Bluebird Care ‘just happens’.

We offer everything from personal care to shopping, cleaning or social visits. In fact everything you need to stay in the comfort of your own home.

Full range available at www.cavells.co.uk and in store Cavells • 16 Mill Street • Oakham • Rutland • LE15 6EA

Come and see why children thrive at The Children’s Garden! · Montessori Pre-school Room: specialist equipment & trained staff to encourage learning & self-development · Forest school techniques to foster an interest in nature & the environment · Baking, languages, drama, tennis, gardening and much more · Daisy Room: light & bright room; children developing through structured play & new experiences · Baby Room: safe and cosy haven for the youngest children to explore and play · Secure all-weather garden; regular trips out · Family ethos; providing childcare since 1998 · Recent OFSTED report – Good in all areas

www.bluebirdcare.co.uk

For more information or to arrange a visit please contact the Manager, Christine Abbott, on 01780 752094 or visit us at 1 Silver Lane (opposite Beans Coffee Shop) 25

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Private Psychological Therapy Service

Johan Truter

Chartered Clinical Psychologist

Men and depression Is it a weakness?

Read more - www.pychologistuk.co.uk For further information please contact

01780 758556

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

Pregnant? Need to talk?

alternatives

‘a safe place to talk’

• Free pregnancy testing • Free unbiased advice for unplanned pregnancy

• Free post-abortion counselling • Free leaflets on sexual health, contraception

STAMFORD PREGNANCY ADVICE CENTRE Partners Welcome

Telephone: 01780 765853 or 07913 052159 Email: alternativesstamford@btconnect.com Address: Stamford Hospital site, Ryhall Road, Stamford, PE9 1YA

Let’s unite to fight breast cancer.

At Curves, keeping women healthy is our business. Breast cancer is a risk to all women, but taking precautionary steps is fast and easy, just like our workout. Lower your risk by maintaining a healthy weight through our strength-training and cardio circuit that takes just 30 minutes. Think Pink this October for women’s health!

Join for FREE with any donation.*

The power to amaze yourself.™

curves.co.uk 01780 766978 20 Stamford Walk Stamford PE9 2JE

Proud to support

*Between 1 October and 16 October, Curves is waiving the service fee when you make a donation to a breast cancer organisation. Offer based on a first visit enrolment, 4 mo. d.d. programme. New members only. Valid at participating locations. Not valid with any other offer. Registered charity in England and Wales 1017658. © 2011 Curves International, Inc.

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Activities

Autumn – Simple Pleasures The first frosts have arrived, the swallows and martins have left. The golden leaves are dropping to the ground and the days are getting shorter. Charlotte Newby explores the magic of Autumn and goes in search of simple seasonal pleasures Take a stroll One of the simplest ways to appreciate the season is to take a walk amongst the autumn leaves. Head out to the beech woods at Barnsdale on the northern shore of Rutland Water where the woodland tracks make for an easy stroll whatever the weather. The low southerly sunlight crosses the water and streams in through the branches. It’s a sheltered walk, and if you set out early or during weekdays, you’ll have the place virtually to yourself. Park in Barnsdale or Whitwell car park (£2 a day).

Plant a fruit tree It’s a good time to plant a tree while the soil is still warm and before the ground gets waterlogged or freezes. If you plant now, you will give your trees and shrubs the longest possible time to get established and they may even fruit by next summer. Head to one of our local nurseries for your trees.

Rasells in Little Bytham offers good advice in a well-established nursery with an extensive collection of nursery grown fruit trees.

Carve up a pumpkin This is the vegetable of the season and Lincolnshire is home to one of the biggest producers of pumpkins in the country While creating an attractive – or preferably unattractive – lantern to keep the bad spirits away, hold on to the pumpkin flesh to make a seasonal pumpkin soup. (See Sean Hope’s version on Page 63). Get local pumpkins from Grange Farm Shop in Newstead and The Garden Farm Shop at Stamford Garden Centre.

If you’re a big fan of pumpkins, why not go along to the Spalding Pumpkin festival on Friday 7th October (street markets and entertainment, a pumpkin-lit parade and lots more).

Gathering nuts If you like the idea of collecting free food for dinner while out on a walk, look out for chestnut trees. This is the time of year - and it’s certainly been windy enough to collect the fallen nuts.

Chestnuts, unlike other nuts and seeds, are relatively low in calories; contain less fat but

are rich in minerals, vitamins and health giving phyto-nutrients.

Remove them from their spiky shells, then slit the outer husk. Boil in water for 15-20 minutes or roast them on a tray for 30 minutes at 200 degrees C. The shells fall off the yellowywhite nut easily and they can be eaten as they are, used in recipes or frozen for later.

A warm place to go When you’re in town and the wind is swirling round your ankles, why not take shelter in the George Hotel. Slip your shoes off next to the open fire in the lounge and enjoy a civilised cup of tea. Or nip in to the York Bar; a cosy bolt-hole for a casual lunch with a pint of Adnams Ale. While you tuck into your Open Ham and Cheese Toastie Sandwich with mustard, Oakham Ale and Worcester Sauce, you can watch the passers by wrestle with their out-turned umbrellas on St Martin’s!

Contacts Fruit Trees Stamford Garden Centre, Road End Farm, Great Casterton, PE9 4BB www.stamfordgardencentre.co.uk Rasells Little Bytham, Station Road, Little Bytham, NG33 4QY Tel: 01780 410345 Pumpkins Grange Farm Shop, Newstead, Stamford PE9 4FA Tel: 07711 205507 The Garden Farm Shop, Stamford Garden Centre, Road End Farm, Great Casterton PE9 4BB, www.stamfordgardencentre.co.uk Pumpkin parade: www.pumpkinparade.co.uk The George Hotel, 71 St Martin’s, Stamford PE9 2LB, Tel: 01780 750750, www.georgehotelofstamford.com

Nut Roast

Chestnuts work well in a nut roast, and this Cranks recipe is a delicious, simple dish to serve to anyone who needs convincing that meat-free food can be interesting and substantial: •

• • • • • •

225g nuts (chestnuts, peanuts, cashews, walnuts) 100g wholemeal breadcrumbs 1 medium onion, chopped 300ml vegetable stock 10ml yeast extract Mixed herbs, salt & pepper Marmite

First, grind up the nuts and make the breadcrumbs in the liquidiser. Then fry the onions in some oil until they’re soft, and combine them with all the remaining ingredients.

Put the mixture in a greased loaf tin and bake at 180 degrees C for 30 minutes.

Serve hot with onion gravy, vegetables and potatoes.

In the unlikely event that there’s any left over, sandwich it between two slices of bread with some chutney and cucumber.

STAMFORD Living OCTOber 2011

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A cheese board, for the cheese bored.

At Dobbies Farm Foodhall we sample hundreds of locally produced and internationally sourced artisan cheeses every year to bring you, what we believe, is one of the most exciting selections available. So next time you’re planning a lunch or a dinner party, you can serve cheeses worthy of a toast.

Cheese Counter | Butcher | Quality Fresh Foods | Bakery | Delicatessen | Wines & Ales Dobbies Garden World | Phorpres Way | Cygnet Park | Hampton | Peterborough PE7 8NY | Tel: 01733 898 640

Shop online at www.dobbies.com 28

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GREAT DAYS OUT

TOWER AND GLORY Alysia Anderson explores Durham’s castle and cathedral on a weekend break

I

recently revisited my old university, Durham.

This historic city lies on the train line from Peterborough so I hopped aboard one Saturday morning and was in my alma mater before lunch. The view from the station had lost none of its charm: cathedral towers soaring high above the River Wear. The cathedral was begun in 1093 to house the shrine of St Cuthbert, whose remains were brought to Durham a century earlier when the monks fled Lindisfarne. A stone’s throw away, William the Conqueror built Durham Castle which became the bishop’s palace. Today the castle and cathedral are jointly designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

From the station it’s a steep descent on foot down to what Bill Bryson described as ‘a perfect little city’. The castle and cathedral occupy a peninsula within a loop of the River Wear, whose wooded banks drop vertiginously to a beautiful riverside walk. Ancient bridges lead to the city centre where bookshops, cafés and retro boutiques jostle with curry houses and bakeries selling stotties, the traditional round Geordie loaves. Just off the triangular marketplace is the Victorian market hall, its stalls selling everything from meat to antiques.

I followed cobbled Saddler Street past fine Georgian houses up to the cathedral and castle.

In 1836 the Bishops of Durham ceded their powers to the Crown and transferred the castle to the newly founded university.

Students still live there today and in the holidays their rooms make basic but popular tourist accommodation. Sadly there was none available on my visit but I found an excellent apartment next-door to my old French lecture halls. With its flat screen TV and Jacuzzi bath it was certainly a cut above my student digs.

The only way to see inside the castle is on a guided tour, taking in such sights as the medieval kitchens which, remarkably, are still in use. From here, it’s a minute’s stroll across Palace Green to the cathedral. For centuries pilgrims came to worship at this grand example of Norman architecture. Today its immense nave, lined with vast patterned pillars, still inspires awe. Legs permitting, you can climb the 325 steps of the tower for sweeping views across the county, even to the Angel of the North.

After a reviving cuppa in the Undercroft Café, I strolled down pretty South Bailey to Prebends Bridge, where a plaque quotes Sir Walter Scott: ‘Grey towers of Durham, Yet well I love thy mixed and massive piles, Half church of God, half castle ‘gainst the Scot, And long to roam these venerable aisles With records stored of deeds long since forgot.’

DURHAM’S TOP FIVE • Durham Cathedral Marvel at the majestic nave, the first in England to use pointed arches, and visit the tomb of the Venerable Bede, England’s earliest historian.

• Durham Castle Climb the hanging staircase and admire the Norman chapel’s medieval treasures.

• River Wear Sightsee from a cruise or rowing boat or walk along the riverside, passing university boathouses and the Museum of Archaeology in an old mill.

• Oriental Museum Highlights include the Egyptian and Chinese collections.

• Crook Hall This medieval house is a real find, with its walled gardens and maze.

Eating and drinking Durham offers everything from pub grub to Spanish, Italian, Thai and Indian. For fine fare try Oldfields on Claypath, Gourmet Spot on The Avenue or Bistro 21 on the edge of town. Enjoy a river-view lunch at the Cellar Door on Saddler Street or brunch at Leonard’s Coffee House in Fowler’s Yard, a knot of warehouses now home to artist studios.

Where to stay The Victorian Townhouse, 2 Victoria Terrace DH1 4RW Tel: 0191 370 9963; http://www.durhambedandbreakfast.com Stylish, cathedral-view b&b. Doubles from £80.

Oasis and Moonlight Apartments, St Andrew’s Court DH1 3AH Tel: 0191 378 7651; http://www.durhamoasis.co.uk Self-catering luxury from around £50 per person.

Events Amid all the academia and ancient history it’s easy to forget Durham’s coalmining past. The Miners’ Gala is held each July, following the Durham Regatta in June.

August brings the Streets of Summer music festival while in November the Lumière art event lights up Durham’s skyline. For details of events, accommodation and more, visit http://www.thisisdurham.com STAMFORD Living OCTOber 2011

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weddings

ESSENTIAL

at Burghley

The stunning and exquisite Regional Wedding Show returns to Burghley House

Sunday 6th November 2011 - 10am - 4.30pm Tickets: £5 in advance or £6 on the day Group booking - 4 tickets for the price of 3 (In advance only)

online at: www. essentialmediaevents.co.uk

Box Office:

01780 765320 • • • •

Complimentary glass of bubbly & canapés Beautiful goodie bag for registered brides Fabulous fireworks to close show Stunning designer catwalk

alk' w t a c K U a erford ner Kate Sh er seen on

'Nev

ritish desig B y b g in w Welton o ie h s n l n a A n r o e s h r p e a p r * Stunning brity photog le e c m o fr n o * Presentati Please enclose a cheque for £5 per ticket, or group booking £15 (includes p&p) made payable to Local Living Ltd Name: ................................................................................................................................................................................................. ..............

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

Post Code: ........................................

For further show information call

01780 766543 email: sonja@essentialweddingsshow.co.uk

Amount of tickets: ...........

Send to Rachel Beecroft, Willoughby House, 2 Broad Street, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1PB - rachel@locallivingdesign.co.uk

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

22/9/11 12:18:48

ShowN: SupeRbLizzTm iN mapLe

tm z z i l eRb p U s Oes h w s e n h t R R U O t nO a e l b a ail nOw av

NORTH SHOES FITTING SPECIALISTS SINCE 1876

available at: North Shoes, 2 Red Lion Square, Stamford.

Tel: 01780 755400 www.northshoes.co.uk 31

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Activities

Rutland Road Show Thursday 3 November, The Club House at Rutland Sailing Club, 10.30am-3pm

A rare opportunity for visitors to obtain valuations of antiques, family treasurers and collectables from valuation experts at a picturesque venue on the South Shore of Rutland Water.

This event is being hosted by Rutland Sailability in association with Tennants Auctioneers the Rutland Road Show. There is no charge for entry, but for valuations of up to two items there will be a fee of £5.00, and for three or more items the fee will be £10.00.

All proceeds will be going to Rutland Sailability, the local Charity which provides sailing opportunities for people with disabilities.

• Rutland Sailability at Rutland Sailing Club, Gibbet Lane, Edith Weston, Oakham, Rutland LE15 8HJ. www.rutland-sailability.org

Young Arts Day

Stuy Porter Antiques

Five minutes with Stuy Porter, of Stuy Porter Antiques, who has just opened a shop in West Street, Helpston Tell us about your background I trained as an electrician, and I have a well established lighting design business which has taken me all over the world, but I’ve been interested in antiques since I was 12.

In my school holidays, I’d go to Wilfred’s auction house in Wellingborough to watch and learn. This was in the 1970s, when the only antiques programme on TV was Going for a Song. When I was 16, I spotted some interesting Japanese scrolls and asked my Dad to lend me £250 to buy them. He did and I resold them at Sothebys for £20,000.

Antiques have been my hobby ever since.

Why did you choose Helpston?

I have a unit at St Martin’s Antiques Centre in Stamford, but every time I drove past this shop, I thought that it would be ideal. I’m so glad: the people in Helpston have been amazingly welcoming.

Do you have any employees?

My step-daughter Sophie Norris is running the shop. She has a real interest in

antiques – this is her apprenticeship.

Describe the stock We specialise in Georgian furniture, but we have small pieces of costume jewellery, pictures (I also have a framing service) and china: there’s something for everyone, and prices start at £5.

What other services do you offer?

We have a free valuation surgery every Wednesday. We held the first one recently, and had a great response. You can bring along antiques, not necessarily to sell, just to find out a bit more. We also buy gold and silver.

• Stuy Porter Antiques. 1c West St, Helpston, PE6 7DU. Tel: 01778 348865/07917 458569 or email stuy. antiques@gmail.com. The shop is open seven days a week.

New Music Academy to open in Stamford The Wildcats Academy of Music will be opening in Stamford this month, with classes ranging from Music Performance Skills to Music Technology.

Wildcats Academy provides both classroom based learning and private tuition to students of all ages and abilities in a wide range of musical subjects.

Working in partnership with New College Stamford, the Academy will provide training to NQF Level 2 and 3 students, towards examinations with both Trinity RockSchool and the London College of Music. Students of all ages are encouraged to join Academy classes, which will be held at New College Stamford and the Stamford Arts Centre from mid-October.

The Academy teachers are professional

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practitioners with many years of performance experience under their belts. From Musical Directors to Composers and Instrumentalists, their staff provide students with all the skills they will need to become spectacular young musicians. Students can choose from a range of different classes and workshops including Performance Skills, Popular Music Theory, Music Technology, Live & Recorded Audio and Instrumental lessons. All students from the Academy will have the chance to perform as part of an annual showcase, alongside many other performance opportunities throughout the year.

• For more information, please visit www. wildcatsacademy.org.uk or call 07900 694156.

Stamford Arts Centre, Fri Oct 28 A Young Arts Day has been organised on behalf of Stamford Decorative and Fine Arts Society.

It will be an ‘African Art Day’. The cost will be £2.00 per child.

The youngsters will have the opportunity to make their own African Mask, Sculpture, Prints, Paintings or Ashanti Jewellery. All they need will be provided and they can take their finished work home.

Pattern & Structure

Stamford Arts Centre, October 27 – Nov 13 This exhibition features the work of Josette Carroll and Rosemary Tolkien.

Rosemary is an artist specialising in contemporary paintings of the Built Environment and for this exhibition she has created some special new works that feature architectural details of several Stamford buildings.

Josette, who won the Art for Rutland 2010 prize, will be exhibiting a selection of her unique sculptures and artworks created from recycled artwork.

Beginners One-to-One Photography Tutorials • One-to-One tutorials with a professional photographer.

• Learn to take professional quality photographs.

• Use of professional photographic equipment.

• Choice of subjects: landscape, still life, portraits (bring someone you would like to photograph) or architecture.

• Learn basics of Photoshop and save photographs digitally on CD or memory stick • Fee: £40 for 1 hour 15 Minutes; minimum time, minimum investment and maximum results!

• For more information and to book your time Phone: Nisha Keshav on 07879 462026 www.nishakeshav.wordpress.com/

STAMFORD LIVING October 2011

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We have now opened our latest Antique Centre at 1c West Street, Helpston, PE6 7DU Valuation Days held every Wednesday Antiques Bought and Sold • Free Valuations Restoration Work Undertaken Gold & Silver Bought – Best Prices Given Please call to speak to one of our experts

07901 513404 01778 348865

or email stuy.antiques@gmail.com

Valuations Given • SL October ADS.indd 33

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Can’t sell? - you could gain from the flourishing rental market.

Call us on 01780 765100 “Landlords gain as a shortage of rental property and continuing high demand boosts landlords’ rental returns” Miles Shipside – Director Rightmove T pcm LE 50 9 £1

T pcm LE 50 8 £1

m

T c LE50p £8

m

T c LE20p £6

www.wmlet.com

Your residential letting and management specialist

Stamford 01780 765 100

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BUSINESS NEWS

LOCAL BUSINESS Winter Sunshine

With winter on its way, if you haven’t managed to take a summer holiday this year why not escape to warmer climes with Oundle Travel.

“During the winter months, you need to travel at least four hours by air to guarantee your sunshine,” says Paula Cockcroft, Director of Oundle Travel. The Canary Islands are the warmest, closest destination and offer an affordable winter break.

The Canaries do have a ‘mass market’ image, however the handful of properties used by Oundle Travel are carefully selected and have been personally visited by both Paula and her experienced staff. All holidays include meet and greet in resort and private car transfers directly to your hotel.

Here are just a couple of Oundle Travel’s recommended accommodations for Winter Sun 2011: Lanzarote - The Princess Yaiza - Families – 4* Deluxe Situated in the quieter resort of Playa Blanca, The Princess Yaiza has a superb beachfront location and offers something for everyone.

Dining at the Yaiza is flexible and of the highest standard with a choice of three restaurants and 2 poolside bars with charmingly different atmospheres. There is a huge soft playroom area and a full entertainment programme catering from 3 -16 years.

Rooms are spacious & furnished to a high standard & there are 2 large swimming pools.

Particularly good for families are the new Royal Kiko Suites which will accommodate up to 3 children and 2 adults, all are equipped with a play station and DVD and include other little extras such as two hours free babysitting.

Prices from £1066.00 per Adult – Based on a February Half Term Departure.

Gran Canaria – La Hacienda – Quiet & Rural Hotel in Arucas – 3* Suited to a more independent traveller, this charming rural base is only 15 minutes drive from the beach and local villages and is ideal for leisurely walks and good for mountain biking too. Visit the top of Mount Aracas for stunning views, on a clear day you can see Mount Teide in Tenerife. La Hacienada has a lovely restaurant for breakfast, light lunch and dinner; there is a small heated freshwater pool and a small gym.

Prices from £762.00 per adult – Based on a March 2012 Departure • Oundle Travel Tel: 01832 273600 http:// www.oundletravel.co.uk/

Young people in Stamford & Oakham give up on home ownership

Home ownership is no longer seen as life’s Holy Grail and rental growth is helping young people in Stamford and Oakham to chase job opportunities, according to local lettings agent Watson Mitchell.

A study has found that people no longer put owning a home above all other priorities and renting is becoming the norm, with two thirds of people aged between 20 and 45 believing they’ll never own their own home.

Difficult lending criteria and the sheer size of deposits is frightening off first-time buyers, with just five per cent making sacrifices to save for a deposit. Most say they have no spare cash, no interest in saving for a deposit, or their efforts to save are unsuccessful.

But managing director of Watson Mitchell, Richard Watson, said the trend was also due to the quality of accommodation being so much better than it was a generation ago.

“We’re seeing an attitudinal shift towards home ownership. Renting is on the rise and the range and quality of housing on offer is making renting a viable option for people from all walks of life.”

“You don’t rent because you can’t afford your own home. You do it because it’s the smart thing to do in your circumstances. People are choosing to rent so they can be flexible for work and put money towards other priorities.”

• For more information visit http://www.wmlet.com/ or call 01234 840555.

Day Nursery builds on its Montessori roots The long-established Montessori Day Nursery in the centre of Stamford, The Children’s Garden, is evolving its pre-school education.

In addition to the unique approach which the Montessori Method brings to pre-school learning, the staff at The Children’s Garden are adding in language learning, baking and elements of Forest School education.

Nursery Manager, Christine Abbott, explains: “Our Montessori classroom is filled with specialist materials which allow the children to learn through whatever particular interest they have at the time. The Montessori Method provides an excellent foundation for primary school with particular emphasis on reading, writing and arithmetic. However, in addition to Montessori, the staff focus the language learning on a particular country, especially if we have a child from overseas. This is a fun way for the children to learn the basics.

“The staff have all been on Forest School Training this year and are using this to increase the focus on nature and the environment, especially when the children go on nature walks – this really fires their imaginations.”

“For a more homely emphasis,” says Christine, “the children are also trying their hands at baking with our wonderful cooks. This gives the children a real sense of how food is made, while also being great fun.”

• To arrange a visit to The Children’s Garden Day Nursery & Montessori Pre-school, call Christine on 01780 752094 STAMFORD Living OCTOber 2011

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PROPERTY

HIGH END PROPERTY:

IN SEARCH OF THE PERFECT HOUSE A picture perfect classic Georgian house has long been high on the shopping list of top end buyers in the property market, searching for the perfect house; the one; the dream. Harjit Gammon talks to local Stamford agents to discover the current high end property hot picks and presents a selection of the cream of the crop currently or recently on the market for your appraisal

S

tamford is a natural head starter in the search, given its stunning period properties, as recently reported in the Evening Standard, but also because of the wealth of excellent local schools, such as the Stamford Endowed Schools, Oakham, Oundle and Uppingham, says Yvonne Szymborska of agents King West.

The market for these properties is buoyant, Yvonne relates. Buyers are drawn to the area not only by the outstanding schooling available here, but also by a nesting urge prompting a coming home to roost, as well as, more prosaically, the necessities of moving with a job. Defining the top end as properties in the £1-5 million range, James Eastaway, managing partner at Fine & Country and Edward Brassey, director at King West both concur that the first and most enduring request is for Georgian properties with high ceilings, spacious rooms, and presence. Stuart Paton of Chesterton Humberts adds to this heady wish list rectories, and goes on to explain that, “the most desirable properties are still Georgian houses that are not oversized, have a good balance of accommodation; three good reception rooms, good kitchen or potential, good balance of

36

bedrooms to bathrooms, and are in a good location.”

With the occupants of these highly desirable properties generally being long stayers, moving only for genuine reasons (relocation, up or downsizing, death or divorce), the number of these properties available at any one time tends to be limited, resulting in them being snapped up. Though in the present market, an important caveat to saleability, says Paton, is those properties which are “sensibly priced”.

Falling in love with a house is still undeniably a potent sale clincher, but of late, according to Annabel Morbey of Smiths Gore other more rational criteria, such as the quality of the fittings and setting of the house on the land, particularly in the countryside, have begun to play a part. The net result has been a little slowing in the pace of sales. It is not uncommon now for prospective purchasers to return several times to view and to negotiate hard for fixtures and fittings, the experts reveal. Recently some buyers not only agreed the inclusion of a tractor and mowers in their purchase but rather enterprisingly lessons in cutting the hedges!

Heavenly Rectory: The Old Rectory, Beckingham, Lincolnshire.

Chesterton Humberts

Knock out Kitchen: Ancaster House, Empingham (sold).

King West

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North Luffenham Hall, King West

North Luffenham Hall, King West

Stunning classic beauties: Glebe House Easton-on-the-Hill, King West

Outstanding views: Manor Cottage, Collyweston. Fine & Country.

DIRECTORY

Belmesthorpe Grange, Smiths Gore

Chesterton Humberts 5 Ironmonger Street Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1PL Tel: 01780 758090 www.chestertonhumberts.com Fine & Country 2 St. Mary’s Street Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 2DE Tel: 01780 750 200 www.fineandcountry.com King West 13 St. Mary’s Street Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 2DE Tel: 01780 484 520 www.kingwest.co.uk Smiths Gore 9 High Street St. Martin’s Stamford Lincolnshire PE9 2LF Tel: 01780 484696 www.smithsgore.co.uk

STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2011

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PERSPECTIVES

THE BATTLE OF

LOSECOAT FIELD Al Tutt finds out what is known about the little-known nearby battle of Losecoat Field which took place in 1470 just north of Stamford

V

isitors to Stamford with an eye on history ask about Stamford Bridge, no doubt hoping the town bridge crossing the Welland was the scene of the notable battle of 1066; only to be disabused by its having occurred many miles north in the Ridings of Yorkshire.

However, four hundred and four years later a key battle of the War of the Roses did take place barely five miles north of Stamford on a site straddling the Great North Road, now the A1.

One historian writing in the Rutland Magazine c1903 pronounced it an ‘Unnoticed Battle’, a fair assessment given that it is rarely mentioned and even less chronicled.

That battle, which confusingly has been given various names, occurred on either the 12th or 13th of March 1470 between the Yorkists in the person of King Edward IV, crowned as recently as 1461, and his army; and the Lancastrians led by Robert Welles, 8th Baron Willoughby de Eresby of Grimsthorpe Castle. The Lancastrians being almost certainly stout progeny of Lincolnshire virtually to a man. The event has been called, variously, the Battle of Losecoat (or Loosecoat) Field, the Battle of Empingham and even the evocative Bloody Oaks – the latter being the current name of nearby woods and a service station, complete with OK Diner, on the northbound A1 road. Some commentators put the total of combatants involved in the engagement at 30,000 troops - hardly a piffling amount.

So what happened? A little background is needed. Edward IV had regained his pomp and power after the ignominious flight of the royalists at the battle of Edgecote Moor in 1469.

Richard Neville, the Earl of Warwick, so-called Kingmaker, who wished to place George, Duke

38

of Clarence (his son-in-law) on the throne had become marginalised in power terms, outside the orbit of regal influence. Warwick fell in with the disgruntled Welles, subtly planning a coup d’état to remove Edward IV from the throne.

Welles gathered forces in his power base, the county of Lincolnshire; the unrest prompting the king to do likewise in the south.

To cut to the chase, the rebel, nominally Lancastrian, forces had mustered and reached the area on March 12 1470, positioned on a low ridge just north of Tickencote Warren Farm.

Edward’s host - comprising relatively well armed and better trained foot soldiers and cavalry had tramped up the Great North Road from the southern counties and, latterly, Stamford.

In a masterstroke of psychological warfare, Edward had Welles’ imprisoned father (and Thomas Dymock) executed, beheaded, in full view of his son and his rebellion force.

A barrage of cannon fire from the Yorkists, no doubt well fed and watered by the good people of Stamford, followed by a stalwart advance from Edward’s confident, reasonably well equipped troopers swiftly reduced the rebels to the miserable motley crew they were.

Welles’ lines broke without engagement and the cowardly force fled the field, scattering to all points north, east and west. It is said, in the havoc and panic, many hastily flung away their weapons and discarded their livery, which betrayed their allegiance to treacherous Warwick and Clarence, hence the epithet Loosecoat applied to the affray.

And what of the main protagonists? Welles met the same fate as his father, captured and executed one week later along with his captain of foot, Richard Warren. Warwick and Clarence

fled to France. Within the space of a year Edward had both lost and regained the throne of England.

A modern Ordnance Survey map sites the battle north of Bloody Oaks Woods, itself used to name the battle, in a field on the corner of the lane to Pickworth. But, John Speed’s 1610 map of Rutland names, reasonably accurately, many of the copses thereabouts.

Newell Wood, Turnpole Wood, Woodhead (and castle – what was its role in the conflict?), Frith Wood, East Wood and Empingham Wood all closely correspond to present day topography – but there is no Bloody Oaks, only one Boyal Wood (referred to as Royal Wood by one commentator).

To complete the obfuscation, the battle has one further name, Horn Field; Horn being over to the west, toward Exton. It is surprising, to say the least, that in the fields and pastures of the area no sign, no detritus, of this odd but important battle of the Roses has been unearthed, despite the building of the A1 and its later widening. Perhaps there was little interest in the archaeology, although there is anecdotal evidence of the finding of an ‘enormous groat’ of ‘king somebody.’

The chronicler, Richard Butcher, writing in 1646, avers that in gratitude for loyalty, Edward allowed Stamford, as a token of special favour, to bear the royal arms on a surcoat.

“The Coat of arms depicted on our shield Was honourably won at Losecoat Field…

And next to honour Stamford for such aid, His own paternall armies to it convey’d, Joyn’d with Earl Warren’s shield of high renown, Who was formerly owner of this towne.”

STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2011

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23/9/11 10:14:45

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www.qksstamford.co.uk 40

• SL October ADS.indd 40

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A L I S O N H U T C H IN S O N

LIVING THE GOOD LIFE

Local Interior and Garden Designer Alison Hutchinson meets Hester Cresswell, a specialist furniture painter

Hester Cresswell I

have known Hester for a few years and over that time her work has changed in line with fashion and interior styling.

She has a great eye for the sort of piece of furniture which will look good painted, and manages to pick up some amazing items which can transform a home. Some years ago she began teaching this to others too. Then in 2010 she built ‘The Studio’ at her home in Haconby near Bourne and this now houses both her painted pieces of furniture and accessories as well as lovely vintage finds, upholstered pieces and lamps.

“When my father retired he worked at Richardson’s the auctioneers and was always picking up a bargain and transforming it into something beautiful. I learnt a lot from him and for many years we had an antique stall together. I had never thought it would turn into a business but I decided to change career and the business was born,” Hester explained.

Hester worked as a medical secretary at the doctors’ surgery in Bourne and some 14 or so years ago gave it all up to follow her dream of working with paint and colour. She still uses some of the drag effects she used to use on walls but much of the dragging and washes which were so popular then are now unpopular as interior effects. When she first started painting furniture the ‘New England look’ was very popular with dark green, blue and terracotta being used most often. Then for a long time pure creams dominated our interiors.

Now we see a lot of grey and blue coming to the fore with Swedish tones dominating our interiors.

“I love what I do and love the freedom of working from home,” Hester explained. Being able to work and yet walk the dog and enjoy the local countryside is something I never take for granted,” she says. Hunting for the next piece of furniture to paint is an endless task. “I’ll often be up and out of the house by 6am and a buying trip to the Newark Antiques Fair. It might be driving rain on the A1 but I still anticipate the bargain I’ll find and think it’s a real thrill,” Hester laughs.

“I have made so many friends through my courses and love being able to share my passion for colour and fabrics,” Hester says.

Alongside her regular courses which teach the techniques for distressing and painting furniture and interior accessories in Gustavian

8

NENE VALLEY LIVING July 2008

41 GOOD LIFE.indd 1

and French antique finishes, Hester now runs a follow on course for people who have attended one of her courses and are moving onto larger projects. “People bring a piece of furniture which they have sourced, maybe a chest of drawers or a table and we work on this together.

They then take home a finished piece”, Hester explains.

• To book on one of Hester’s courses ring her on: 017778 570952 or www.hestercresswell.co.uk.

Hester has a special Christmas opening on Thursday 17th November 6.00pm to 9.00pm, Friday 18th November 10.00am to 4.00pm and Saturday 19th November, 10.00am to 4.00pm.

Chapel Garden House, Chapel Street, Haconby, Bourne, Lincs, PE10 0UL STAMFORD Living OCTOber 2011

41

23/9/11 10:16:34

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• SL October ADS.indd 42

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MOTORING

Less engine, more power, lower emissions Ashley Martin discovers that it really is possible nowadays to get the best of all worlds performance-wise

L

ogic dictates that the bigger the car engine the more power is produced and so on-road performance is greater.

However, motor manufacturers are turning logic on its head and downsizing engines while giving drivers the power and performance traditionally associated with larger engines and also, in some cases, harnessing Formula One technology.

Driving the transformation are tough new European Union (EU) carbon dioxide (CO2) vehicle emission standards. Manufacturers have been set individual CO2 targets by the EU. Those that fail to meet the targets by 2015 will face fines potentially running into millions of Euros linked to the number of new cars they sell.

Meanwhile, with household and business budgets under the cosh those in the market for new cars will save cash as a result of the smaller engine trend.

Smaller engines mean lower emissions, which means savings on all motoring taxes - including Vehicle Excise Duty and company car tax which are directly linked to CO2 emissions - and a product of reduced emissions is improved MPG, which means savings at the pumps.

Volvo announced at last month’s (September) Frankfurt International Motor Show that it was developing a new engine range consisting solely of four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines.

The manufacturer confidently said that the move would allow it ‘to be on a par or even beat’ competitors in crucial areas such as driving dynamics and fuel efficiency.

Promising fuel economy improvements of up to 35% and enhanced performance, Peter Mertens, senior vice president research and development at Volvo, said: “It is time to stop counting cylinders. Focusing on four-cylinder engines is the perfect way to quickly reduce CO2 emissions and fuel consumption without compromising customer expectations on driving pleasure and performance.

“We’re aiming to develop four-cylinder engines with higher performance than today’s six-cylinder units, along with lower fuel consumption than the current generation of

four-cylinder engines.”

Next year Ford will introduce a three-cylinder 1.0 litre petrol engine in its best-selling Focus that promises to deliver the performance of a 1.6 litre engine with CO2 emissions below 120 g/km. The engine - part of Ford’s lowemission, fuel-sipping EcoBoost range - with power outputs of 100PS and 120PS will also appear in the C-Max in 2012 followed by the B-Max. Ford’s downsized engines feature turbocharging, direct injection and other technologies and replace larger engines with no loss of performance and with lower fuel consumption.

Graham Hoare, executive director, powertrain, Ford of Europe, said: “By offering the Focus with a small-displacement petrol engine Ford is making a major statement on how serious we are about engine downsizing. To produce a 1.0 litre EcoBoost petrol engine with such

impressive performance and fuel economy is a clear example of our commitment to be classleading in fuel economy.”

Renault already ranks among Europe’s top three car manufacturers for the lowest CO2 emissions, and its sights are now set on moving to the number one position as engineers work on a new generation of petrol and diesel engines.

The French marque says its Energy engine range, which utilises technology first used in Formula One cars, is a case study in how innovation can work not only for performance, but also for low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions and reduced running costs.

Revealed at Frankfurt were the Energy TCe 1.2 litre 115 bhp petrol engine and the Energy dCi 110 bhp, an extensively enhanced version of the current 1.5 dCi diesel unit.

The 1.2 unit, which will be followed by a threecylinder 900cc 90 bhp engine, will initially feature in Renault’s Megane and Scenic models next year. It will replace the existing 1.6 16v 110 bhp powerplant and promises a 30% emissions reductions, a 25% MPG improvement as well as 5 bhp more power despite its 25% smaller cubic capacity.

Meanwhile, the reworked dCi 110 bhp engine will also debut in the Megane and Scenic next year and promises emissions below 100 g/km.

It is a sister power plant to the 115 g/km 1.6 litre dCi 130 bhp 64.2 mpg unit launched earlier this year in the Scenic, which is the most powerful engine of its size on sale today and replaced a 1.9 dCi 130 bhp unit.

Despite the race to bring electric, hybrid and ultimately hydrogen cars to market, pundits still expect 90% of new cars to be powered by the internal combustion engine by 2020. The big difference is that power plants will be smaller, cleaner and more fuel efficient than today.

STAMFORD LIVING October 2011

43 MOTORING.indd 1

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ACTIVITIES

EXTON AND FORT HENRY Exton has a rich history, some attractive countryside around it and an excellent pub to enjoy

Distance: Typical time: Height gain: OS map: Start & finish From Stamford

10 kms (6.25 miles) 2 1/2 - 3 hours None Explorer 234 The Green, Exton 11 kms (6.9 miles): A606 west to Empingham, then North West on Exton Road

WALK DIRECTIONS:

1

Park at The Green. Head out on the NW side, past lovely thatched cottages; after about a 100 metres turn left, then shortly after that right, passing Exton Estate Farm on your left; on crossing a cattle grid bear right and follow a metalled track for about a kilometre.

Take a left at this point (another path continues straight ahead); follow this new track round a field, down a small dip; shortly after you have regained the height there is a farm track to the right, which runs dead straight due east, with old ironstone workings to your right; follow this track for 2kms.

Shortly after entering a wood, descend some wooden steps to your right, leading down to North Brook (a tributary of the Gwash).

After a few minutes the splendid Fort Henry will come into view; continue to head south, past another smaller lake, following the line of North Brook; about 1km after the second lake, the path crosses the brook and leads up to the road, past a trout hatchery on your left.

At the road, turn right and follow the road for about 1/2 km; then take a path leading off to the right, which takes you down to a tributary of North Brook; follow this stream west for about 1 1/2 kms.

Just after a stile you have a choice of path; the path to the right involves less road, passing by the school; turn right on regaining the road, then next left back to The Green.

2 3

4

The Church (south of The Green, along a small road) The present building dates from the 13th and 14th centuries. Much restoration was carried out in the Victorian era in 1850 following the spire being struck by lightning, destroying much of the roof.

The church is famous for its monuments.

Pevsner declared: “There are no churches in Rutland and few in England in which English sculpture from the 16th to the 18th centuries can be studied so profitably and enjoyed so much as at Exton.”

Refreshments Fox and Hounds The Green, Tel: 01572 812403 Continues to get good review for its Italian/ English mix. A recent blogger, Lisa Batty commented: “Good quality and locally-sourced ingredients are turned into superb dishes

by Valter, an extremely accomplished chef, making the Fox & Hounds one of Rutland’s best eateries.” • See the full review at: www.allthethrees.co.uk/index.php/2011/09/ the-fox-hounds-exton/

Fort Henry This unusual building (“a pleasurehouse of the most refined and elegant late eighteenth-century Gothick” as one earlier visitor described it) was built in the 1780s as a boathouse and picnic place. It was designed by William Legg of Stamford, masonry was executed

by George Beaver, plasterwork by John Tillson and decoration by Joseph Everard. The craftsmen were also from Stamford. The building was painstakingly restored in 1981.

Fort Henry

3 OSPREY WOOD WESTLAND WOOD

FORT HENRY HOUSE

2

TUNNELEY WOOD

FORT HENRY LAKE

HORN

5

POINTS OF INTEREST Exton Exton – meaning ‘ox farm’ is mentioned in 1185 as Exton Park - ‘a wooded farm, enclosed for hunting deer’. It was Rutland’s largest park, at one time covering 1,500 acres and with a herd of 500 deer.

Exton Hall was re-built in the nineteenth century and there are many fine estate houses from this era in the village.

44

1

EXTON

5

4 CUCKOO FARM

STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2011

44 WALK.indd 1

23/9/11 10:55:45

He never could assemble a flat pack.

Don’t worry Darling.

St. Martins Antiques have some wonderful furniture.

Now with more than sixty exhibitors, the centre has a variety of antiques unmatched in the surrounding area. Items range from £5 to £5,000 and regular turnover of stock frequently brings customers back for more.

Proprietor Peter Light and his experienced team are always on hand, happy to proffer advice or buy your fine quality antiques.

An email search enquiry facility is also available.To find out more check out our web site: www.st-martins-antiques.co.uk, email peter@st-martins-antiques.co.uk or call him on (01780) 481158.

23a High Street, St. Martins, Stamford,

Lincolnshire, PE9 2LF.

The Fox and Hounds, Exton Autumn Special Offer

Tue-Fri Lunchtimes during Oct & Nov A choice from one of our popular deli-board sharing platters, plus dessert each. Only £10 pp

Christmas Party Menu

Tue-Sat Lunch & Evenings until Fri 23 Dec. Menu From £13.95. Booking essential.

New Years Eve

Back by popular demand, our exclusive ‘dress up, dine & dance’. Fabulous exclusive house party atmosphere, with wonderful food, live entertainment & treats. £65 pp

The Fox and Hounds, 19 The Green Exton, Rutland, LE15 8AP

01572 812403

www.foxandhoundsrutland.co.uk

info@foxandhoundsrutland.co.uk

Creative, practical solutions to suit individual homes and gardens.

All aspects of interior and garden design including planting schemes, courtyards and garden lighting, soft furnishings, curtain design & make-up and re-upholstery.

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12 Willoughby Road, Morcott, Rutland, LE15 9DY Tel: 01572 747318 Mobile: 07973843020 alison@alisonhutchinsondesign.co.uk www.alisonhutchinsondesign.co.uk

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• SL October ADS.indd 45

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• SL October ADS.indd 46

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SHOPPING

SPOTLIGHT ON MARK ELLIOT FURNITURE Mark Elliot Furniture, based in the heart of Stamford, offers a huge array of handcrafted furniture to suit any taste or space. It’s well worth a visit The Stamford store • Two large floors of display space, a huge range of room settings • All the furniture built by craftsmen in the UK • Everything can be tailored to your exact size and fabric requirements • Delivery is free

Time for bed

feel Light and modern

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Phoography by Elli Dean www.ellideanphotography.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2011

47 MARK ELLIOT.indd 1

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23/9/11 10:58:58

WRITER’S SPOT

Trample of approval Janey Edkins, a recent arrival in Ketton from South Africa, has just written her first novel, ‘Walking on Marshmallows’, which she is hoping to get published. Here she writes about falling in love with her new adopted country

W

hat’s not to love about a pile of horse apples** ethereally steaming outside your window? On reflection, what’s also not to love about local and somewhat dapper publican of Ketton’s infamous Railway Inn, Clifford Daly (cufflinks twinkling in the mid-morning sun) rigorously scraping up said effluent with a shovel the size of a tipper truck.

Obviously he has his reasons – either he’s an avid rose cultivator, is afflicted with OCD, or simply doesn’t savour the idea of the tyres of his gleaming armada of vehicles becoming entrapped for infinity with the indelible gunk.

But I digress here and think I need to elucidate (hurriedly!) before all you locals think I am totally and utterly bonkers!

I, or rather I should say my family, has recently returned from living in South Africa, and by a pure twist of fate had the providence of finding ourselves living in the delectably beautiful and timeless village of Ketton.

Not that I’m obsessed with horse deposits as such, but reverting back -- as much as we wanted to leave Africa, Africa doesn’t appear fit to leave us.

In spite of said poop-scooping vigilant keeping an occasional beady eye on this narrow stretch of road, every time a consignment of horses clomp regally past, they seem to have this inexorable urge to push! Hence, after being squelched to unrecognisable proportions by the gentle ebb and flow of local traffic this Himalayan dollop has ended up miraculously in the shape of the map of Africa — even cheekily leaving a few splatters to the east, demarcating Mauritius, the Seychelles and Madagascar!

Pure fantasy of course, but, putting all that aside this horse palaver does make me grin rather stupidly, primarily because no-one seems to mind. In fact, if anything it seems to be worn like some sort of badge of honour!

And who could blame them? What a privilege to live in a place steeped with so much history, such character, and oozing such charm.

Without mincing my words — I’m bowled over by it all.

Arriving here about six months ago, bizarrely on the hottest recorded day of the year, (which just goes to show how the elements chose to be very kind and break us in gradually) we made our way up from Heathrow, to be greeted by our friends (also émigrés from Africa and now living in Stamford) who had very kindly collected the keys for our new home.

Suitcases dumped and exhaustion forgotten I simply couldn’t wait to explore my new environs. Armed with my daughter’s camera, I made the rounds snapping up — much to the bemusement of a few locals — every

48

conceivable edifice and landmark in sight.

Who could resist those chocolate box stone cottages boasting such lively hanging baskets? Who could resist herbaceous borders brimming with hollyhocks stretching way past the eves, the crunch of gravel at every turn, a bijou of a post office so reminiscent of yester-year? And of course the horse dung. Who could forget that — the absolute and raison d’etre of country existence? …needless to say I couldn’t defy the urge to take a quick snap of that too — just for posterity, you understand.

And actually, as I now stare broodingly out of my extremely tiny, deepledged vista, soaking up the magnificent sandstone church spire and its demarcating sentinel of crooked tomb stones, it’s still there, the objet de ma fixation, a little worse for wear, (since we had a couple of weddings and a funeral here this weekend) but still fighting fit and readable (if you happen to be a cartographer!) and I can’t help wondering how my life has changed. Having swapped humidity for inclement, huge and sprawling for tiny and cramped, rainbow-nation-chaos for finite structure and order, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I will never knock Africa; it swept me along with all its debris of idealism for many years and I had a wonderful existence. But you know that old adage “England, my England”— a bit mushy and sentimental, but it practically sums it up for me — Ketton and surrounds are quintessentially one of the most beautiful spots in England!

Tallyho and all that…oh look…

Plip-plop…plipperty plop… …is that a spot of rain?

My word, finally we might get a chance to wash away the mush, and breathe in some…fresh…air.

Hang on.

Is — is that…?

Did I speak too soon? Mingled with the plipperty-plop is that a clippertyclop?

Yes, yes ‘fraid it is. And here they come skirting round the corner, those tawny and oh such majestic beasts, tail twitching and swishing…ready to offload a fresh steamy emerald-hued deposit right where the other one is practically…well almost, but no-t quite indiscernible. ** Grassy waste matter expelled from rear end of equestrian mammal.

• If you would like to submit a piece of writing for consideration, then email about 700 words to nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk

STAMFORD Living OCTOber 2011

48 I LOVE STAMFORD.indd 1

23/9/11 10:17:21

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• SL October ADS.indd 49

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Listed Buildings: Renovation, extension and development of further details www.wytheholland.co.uk listed properties.

Listed Buildings: Renovation, extension and development of

01780-758808

listed properties.

Commercial: Factories Factories, Offices Offices, Restaurants Restaurants, Showrooms Showrooms.

Commercial: Factories Factories, Offices Offices, Restaurants Restaurants, Showrooms Showrooms.

Commercial: Factories Factories, Offices Restaurants Restaurants, Showrooms Showrooms. email Offices, johnt@wytheholland.co.uk Lane,Tinwell, Stamford. email johnt@wytheholland.co.uk Messenger Centre, Crown Lane,Tinwell, Stamford. email johnt@wytheholland.co.uk further detailsfurther www.wytheholland.co.uk details www.wytheholland.co.uk , Crown Lane,Tinwell, Stamford.

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further details www.wytheholland.co.uk

Stunning print of classic Rutland landscape

£40 The Living Magazines have just published a limited edition of 10 A3 High quality prints of this beautiful Rutland landscape, signed and numbered by the photographer, David Corfield.

David Corfield is a Rutland-based editorial and advertising photographer, author of the ‘Roads With A View’ series published by the RAC and editor of Performance French Cars magazine.

Price including P&P is just £40.

Buy online at

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ACTIVITIES

MEETING PEOPLE IN STAMFORD There are times in life when meeting new people happens naturally and effortlessly. If you’re at college, if the bulk of your friends are single, or if you’re working with lots of colleagues in a sociable place, it’s an inevitable part of your day as the mingling ensures a constant flow of new faces. But if you are new to an area, or find yourself single after years of being part of a couple, it can be a daunting prospect to find the time, inclination and confidence to meet new people. Charlotte Newby takes a closer look and cultural network is www.stamford.co.uk. The Community section Dating Agencies in particular provides an insight into local life and lists many clubs, You only have to type ‘dating agencies’ into Google and find that you are organisations, societies, interest groups and events. faced with literally millions of options. We have not been through them all, Also visit www.bestlocalliving.co.uk and click on the Local but here a a few relevant places that might get you started.

Clubs and Societies section for a ful list of activities and Oakham-based RSVP claims to be ‘the number one Eight groups from ranging from apiary to zumba!

Lincolnshire dating agency and singles events Tips For Meeting Some of the more multi-interest Stamford service for discerning single people’. Offering New People clubs and societies that attract a wide range a very personal service, they specialise 1. Show up. Go to the party. of people in all age groups include: in one-to-one dates and singles events; Stop at someone’s desk. Make the effort.

The Stamford Rotarians, where you anything from energetic multi-activity 2. Go there often. The more you are seen in a place can help to improve the quality of life days to summer barbeques and balls. and become a part of it, the more likely you are in your own community and raise Membership starts at £425.00. to befriend others there too. funds for others. The club is non Though local, RSVP also has 3. Join a group. You’ll have to talk to someone! political, not religious and open to all members in many other regions of 4. Start a group. Gather people around you that are interested in cultures, races and creeds. Therefore the country. the same thing: a marathon training group, it attracts a cross-section of local As an alternative, Urban Social cheese and wine, books, a language, children. business and professional people is a national dating and personals At least you’ll have something in common. and the activities are diverse. The website which also has a strong 5. Try online dating. You will see you are not alone out there. clubs hold open events where you presence in this area. It’s an online 6. Go to a local coffee bar. Particularly when they’re not can find out more and see which local members club for single people who busy, it’s a great place to meet local individuals group suits you. want to meet new people in their own with the same habits as you.

The Stamford and District Kiwanis time as and when they want. Joining 7. Take dance lessons. Because you will get paired up is a charitable organisation of business is free, you build your own online profile with lots of different people. people and professionals who raise money and contact with others is made by email.

8. Take an evening course or workshop. Learn for deserving local causes. They organise The company also specialises in singles a new skill, meet people with the large scale social events such as the Stamford events, dating events and activity weekends. same interest.

Festival Parade of Floats and the Bonfire and If the standard online dating experience is Firework Bonanza in November. The group meets not your scene and you’re happy to trust a close twice a month. friend to help in matchmaking, then www.mysinglefriend.

The Stamford Civic Society has more than 200 members, com is a good place to start. The brainchild of TV’s Sarah Beeny, offering a further opportunity to get involved in the life of the town. The mysinglefriend encourages a close friend to write your profile (therefore main objective of the society is to defend Stamford’s heritage and help to reducing the painful cringe factor of describing yourself to potential preserve and improve the town. companions) and seek out suitable dates for you. You can search the site first for possible matches, then join if you like what you see. It costs around £22 per month (£66 for six CONTACTS months). It’s a website that seems to succeed in RSVP: FREEPHONE 0800 542 7262, reducing the stigma attached to dating agencies. www.rsvp-uk.com Getting Involved locally If the dating scene is not for you and you would prefer to get involved in the area as a way of meeting new people, Stamford has a well known, rich cultural and social fabric of its own.

A worthwhile place to start finding out more about Stamford’s social

Urban Social: http://www.urbansocial. com/ Mysinglefriend: http://www. mysinglefriend.com/ Stamford Rotarians: St Martins: http://www.www.rotary-ribi. org/clubs/homepage.asp?ClubID=1857; Burghley: http://www.rotary-ribi.org/ clubs/homepage.asp?ClubID=1639 Stamford and District Kiwanis: email: secretary@stamfordkiwanis.org.uk The Stamford Civic Society: http:// www.www.stamfordcivicsociety.org.uk/

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BUSINESS NEWS

ROUND-UP Wine tasting at The Orangery

A

bsolute Taste, who took over the catering at The Orangery at Burghley House earlier this year, are hosting an autumn season of wine tasting and gourmet food Thursday 13th October Classic and unexpected wines from Spain Spanish Inspired food and wines Dinner – 7pm-10pm Reception with an aperitif & 3 canapés 3 course dinner with digestif and coffee.

Wines introduced by Sam of Bibendum prior to each course Thursday 27th October Hidden Gems from around the world – a section of rare and unusual wines from the far corners of the globe Tutored tasting 6.00pm – 8.00pm Reception with an aperitif whilst guests assemble Guests then all sit on tables with empty wine glasses Cheese and charcuterie platters on the tables Amy will introduce and expand on the wines – 4 red and 4 whites Thursday 10th November Italian Inspired food and wine to match Dinner – 7pm-10pm Reception with an aperitif and 3 canapés.

3 course dinner with digestif and coffee.

Wines introduced by Amy prior to each course Thursday 24th November A trip through the Americas – stunning

examples of stunning wines from South America Tutored tasting 6.00pm – 8.00pm Reception with an aperitif whilst guests assemble Guests then all sit on tables with empty wine glasses Cheese and charcuterie platters to the tables Sam will introduce and expand on the wines – 4 reds and 4 whites Tutored tasting @ £30.00 per person (£27.50 for groups of 4 or more) Dinners @ £42.50 per person (£40.00 for groups of 4 or more) Capacity is 60 persons for each event To reserve a space contact The Orangery Restaurant at Burghley House Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 3JY Tel : 01780 761989 Amy Hope-Thompson – London Trade Sales Amy has worked for Bibendum for four years.

Prior to this she worked in the Fine Wine team dealing with private clients. She has also completed the WSET Intermediate and Advanced, and is soon to start the Diploma.

Sam Olive – East Midlands Trade Sales Sam spent a year in New Zealand out in the vineyards propagating and grafting root stock for a large successful vine nursery in Marlborough following three years at Majestic Fine Wines. After this she spent three years at Avery Wine Merchants in Bristol selling fine wine and investment wines. Now at Bibendum, also studying for the Diploma.

Sly Fashion

Sly Fashion is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. Belinda Sly continues to innovate with new brands and concepts whilst always providing outstanding customer service. She told SL: “We are strong on shoes again – there are lots and lots of beautiful shoes with a wonderful twist now in store, all very reasonably priced.” And Sly 2, the dress agency goes from strength to strength.

• Sly Fashion - 4 St. Mary’s Passage, Stamford. Tel: 01780 482870

Your Dream Lodge can come true tomorrow

An Evening with…

Bunny Guinness “Transform your Garden” Thursday 13th October 2011 7.30 pm The Haycock Hotel, Wansford Bunny Guinness, our acclaimed local landscape designer and architect, is well known as a regular panellist on the long running BBC Radio 4 programme, Gardener’s Question Time. She also writes books and a weekly column in the Sunday Telegraph. She presented The Great Garden Challenge on Channel 4 in 2005 and has exhibited regularly at the Chelsea Flower Show, where she has won six gold medals and a silver gilt to date.

Hosted by Wansford and District Horticultural & Craft Society To reserve tickets, please email fisher.gill@ yahoo.com, telephone the ticket hotline on 01780 781200 or in person at InStep Foot Clinic at 10 High Street, St Martin’s, Stamford.

Ticket Price includes one glass of wine on arrival. In advance: Members £5.00, Non Members £7.00 On the door: All tickets £8.50

Want to get away from it all but can’t face a long trek every Friday evening? Want to be ‘at home’ in a tranquil setting where you can also enjoy a dizzying array of water sports and outdoor sports just when you feel like it? Then a Lodge or Leisure Home at Tallington Lakes could be just the thing for you. See Nene Valley magazine online at http://www.bestlocalliving.co.uk/ You will be simply amazed by the space, the intelligence of the design, the quality of the fitting of a Lodge – it’s ready to move into tomorrow and it has the ‘wow’ factor that will so impress family and friends.

• For more information of the Lodges and Leisure Homes at Tallington Lakes call Jayne Knights on 01778 348566 or 07557 366698 or visit http://www.thedreamlodgegroup. co.uk/

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Loving and Living Fashion with

4 St Mary’s Passage, Stamford.

T. 01780 482870 E. slyfashion@hotmail.co.uk

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

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

Window Repair

Before

After

Before

After

Exterior joinery repair

01572 720524 or 07841 527855 tradrest@hotmail.co.uk

www.traditional-restoration.co.uk

Green Man

Antiques & Restoration Ltd

Period antiques that complement 21st Century technology & style, Specialising in 17th – 20th Century mahogany, walnut & oak furniture Georgian and collectable silver. Free estimates given.

Friendly helpful advice. Restorations and repairs

74 West Street, Oundle, Peterborough, PE8 4EJ (opposite Oundle Clock Shop) - Tel: 01832 270970 Open: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday 10am – 4pm (Or by appointment)

1 hour parking outside and easy access for loading/offloading

The Oundle Clock Shop specialises in local clocks and we offer advice on full restorations and repairs.

Tel: 01832 272099

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Clear Ridge Veterinary Surgery Your local Professional L aw n T r e aT m e n T S e r v i c e

• Comprehensive Diagnostic and Surgical Facilities (Doppler Ultrasound, Operating Microscope, ECG etc)

• weed and moss control • scarification • hollowtine aeration • fertilisation

• Caring & Dedicated Health Care for Your Companion Animal

Spring, Summer, autumn & winter treatments for your lawn at a price that doesn’t cost the earth.

Robert Pontefract B.V.M.S., M.R.C.V.S., Certificate in Veterinary Ophthalmology

• 24 Hour Emergency Service • Free Parking

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

43 Empingham Road, Stamford

01780 764333

KEN RAWSON

GARDEN DESIGNS NO PROBLEM Many designs begin with a problem to solve. Many start with lots! Be it patios, privacy, overgrown shrubs or lack of colour,

It can be solved Ring 01780 481624 to see how www.kenrawsongardendesigns.co.uk Easton-on-the-Hill, Stamford. Established 1986

HUNTERS INTERIORS We have the expertise, advice and flair to bring out the best in your home Visit our showroom five days a week:

A16 Uffington, Stamford PE9 4TD or telephone: 01780 757 946 www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk 54

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FOOD & DRINK

An Autumn Harvest This is the season for sharing home grown garden harvest and windfall fruits. The perfect opportunity to make jellies, preserves, chutneys and hedgerow cordials for the winter store cupboard. Sarah Lyon Make it yourself….

Stamford Living reader, professional photographer and wild jelly maker Vanessa Glynn was inspired to both photograph and make homemade jelly from her glut of wild plums and crab apples collected from her kitchen garden in Helpston. “I was feeling guilty that I wasn’t putting all this fruit to good use especially after being inspired by and reading a wonderful book call ‘Food for Free’ by Richard Mabey,” says Vanessa. “The recipe that I have followed is from my mother’s 1960 edition of Marguerite Patten’s “Cookery in Colour”. It is a fantastic book with simple recipes and it is one that I go back to time and time again.”

For the Crab Apple jelly…

• Pick the crab apples when they are good and ripe and before they fall.

• Wash the fruit and cut the stalk end off – There is no need to peel or core the fruit – then put the fruit in a large heavy saucepan/jam pan.

• For every pound of fruit add one pint of water and simmer the fruit until it turns into pulp.

• Put the pulp through a thick muslin bag/jelly bag – you can leave the bag to drain overnight into a bowl • Measure out the juice that you are then left with in the bowl.

Sarah • For every pint of juice add 1lb of sugar and stir gently together – don’t stir too much Lyon organises or your jelly will become cloudy. a Slow Food Rutland and • Boil the mixture rapidly until set – this takes roughly 20 minutes but you do Lincolnshire annual have to test it.

Mushroom Foray • To test put a saucer in the fridge and when you think the mixture is setting Last year our annual mushroom foray was held put a drop of the jelly mixture on the saucer and return to the fridge. Wait in and around the ancient Burghley woodlands a few minutes and when you get the saucer out see if the mixture moves of Wakerley Woods. We found a host of mushrooms around on the plate – if it doesn’t then you are done! of both the edible and inedible varieties under the • Transfer the mixture to jam jars that have been sterilised – and make guidance of expert mycologist Paul Nicol. Paul lives and sure that you have a jam funnel – they are worth every penny! works in Cumbria and makes this annual pilgrimage each year. This sleuthing for mushrooms is central to the outing but having found and foraged a plethora of lovely windfall crab apples I busily collected and brought them back to turn into a beautiful rose coloured apple jelly.

• Mushroom Foray, Sunday October 2nd, contact Sarah Lyon at sarah. food@googlemail.com

The School of Artisan Food Welbeck – Nottinghamshire – Tel 01909 532171 –www.schoolof artisanfood.org – Autumn Preserves – October 22 A day learning how to preserve autumn’s harvest as you discover the science and the magical transforming abilities of salt, sugar, vinegar and alcohol using seasonal ingredients. A deliciously simple transformation of fruits into preserves.

Kitting up with the Jam Jar Shop “I was looking around for a cotton straining bag when making my crab apple jelly last year,” says Sarah Lyon. “I decided to order on line from the Jam Jar Shop, http://www.jamjarshop. com/ (based in Oakham) and my order arrived next day.” Alternatively you can order on line and do the collecting. Check out their website for all jam making equipment and much more.

Funnels too!

• Tel: 01572 720720, 25 Pillings Road, Oakham LE15 6QF

Jam and Bread; A Marriage made in the Kitchen not in Heaven Since becoming a committed bread-head I have used and encouraged others to use Marriage’s flours. The reason I like Marriage’s flour is simple; it’s because of its guaranteed quality. It is milled with great integrity, has a wholesome creamy colour to indicate the lack of bleaching agents and is carefully graded to maintain a high protein content. My passion is to teach people how to make bread, in such a way as to ensure success in their own home. Bread making with Linda Hewett at Stamford Cookery School, Wed Oct 12 & Now 2 (6-9pm), Contact 01780 752172 to book a place.

Marriage’s Flour; source from Silver Lane Foods, Stamford.

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Don't m

iss

COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL & GOLF CLUB

A52

Grantham

Bourne Spalding Toft

A15

Oakham A606

Stamford

A17 A16

A15

A1

b o n f i r our e S p e c ta n i g h t cular on Sat 5t hN Food, b ovember on fabulou fire and s firewo rks

Christmas brochure NOw available

A16

Market Deeping

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Eating Out

The William Cecil Restaurant Alysia Anderson went to eat at Stamford’s newest eating establishment

S

ummer saw the opening of the William Cecil Hotel, formerly the Lady Anne. The transformation of this rather fusty hotel into stylish accommodation with bar, restaurant and function rooms has been a welcome one, providing an alternative to The George. The hotel’s target market is the same: businessmen, brides, lunching ladies, tourists and townsfolk looking for decent fare in elegant surroundings.

I visited midweek with a group of girlfriends and again on a Saturday evening with hubby, so had ample opportunity to sample the menu. We perused it over a drink in the courtyard, where rattan chairs and tables create a relaxing spot for al fresco dining on sunny days. Inside are a conservatory, a comfy bar with leather sofas and a pair of rather grand dining rooms. Pale green booth-style benches have been inserted among the dark wooden tables and chairs to lighten the rather austere feel, an effect aided by the youthful staff.

The menu is daunting at first glance, offering everything from starters, salads, sandwiches and seafood to ‘nibbles’, vegetarian options and a grill section of carnivorous choices. The hotel is sister to the Bull and Swan and features some of the same dishes, such as the Burghley venison Scotch egg, part of a ‘sharing slate’ where elements can be mixed and matched.

My group of ladies opted for light mains such

as fresh grilled sardines and chicken Caesar salad. On the whole these received a thumbsup, while I enjoyed my goat’s cheese ravioli, a parcel of tangy curd bathed in a sweet garlic broth. We shared some puds, which was just as well since they were huge. The chocolate brownie crème brulée (not quite a success) was the size of a side plate, while the dessert of summer berries was a generous trio.

On my marital visit, we explored the menu in more masculine fashion with a ‘nibble’ of delicious deep-fried oysters, starters of beef carpaccio and pork terrine and a meaty main course apiece. My lamb three ways: cutlet, chop and chump, was juicily herby while my husband pronounced his ribeye tender if a little lacking in flavour. All the grill dishes come on a slate with coleslaw, salad and a choice of potatoes, which didn’t deter us from ordering extra vegetables

at £3.50 a dish. With the main courses around £20 each, our bill came to £50 a head, including a bottle from the short but decent wine list.

However, on my girls’ night out I spent half that, and there are complimentary touches that sweeten the deal: fresh bread with herb-infused olive oil at the start and a glass of elderflower vodka to finish. Our waitress informed us that one of the hotel directors has a farm in Godminster producing flavoured vodkas, with horseradish and cucumber among the other varieties available at the bar. When we collected our car the following day, we bumped into friends who’d just enjoyed Sunday lunch there, so the restaurant is clearly a welcome addition to the Stamford scene.

• The William Cecil, High Street St Martin’s, Stamford Tel: 01780 750070 www.thewilliamcecil.co.uk

Dai or night dining

Bridget Steele came up from Peterborough to try out Opus Dai, a very contemporary venue Opus Dai Champagne Bar opened in Broad Street, Stamford, in April this year. With chic black and white décor it has a sophisticated, minimalist feel that I’m sure is popular with their evening visitors, who can enjoy music from the bar’s resident DJ from Tuesday to Saturday evenings.

But the Bar has a daytime life, too. It serves food from 12 -7pm (children are welcome). I visited one Friday lunchtime with a friend. We sat in the pretty outdoor area where many people were making the most of the autumn sunshine. The menu is comprehensive, and well priced, with

appetising options such as pitta bread stuffed with a potato and chick pea curry, served with salad and yogurt, to paninis, or a ‘Dirty Fry Up’ – that’s a full English.

I chose a Spicy King Prawn Salad, consisting of marinated king prawns in ginger, garlic and spring onions with a zesty chilli dressing. The prawns were plentiful, and the dressing had a nice kick. Debbie had the King Prawn Noodles: these were stir fried with vegetables, bamboo shoots, and hot chilli, with spring onions, lime juice, soy sauce and prawn crackers. The generous portion was sizzling, straight from the wok.

Each main course was under £8, so good value, too.

After my light main course, I went for the most indulgent dessert on the menu: a delicious sticky toffee pudding. Debbie’s Eton Mess, with strawberries, crisp meringue, whipped cream and a light strawberry mousse, was equally good.

Booking is not necessary and service is quick and friendly. Opus Dai is an ideal place for meeting friends for lunch, afternoon tea, or in the evening for a different vibe.

• Opus Dai, Broad Street, Stamford.

Tel: 01780 481880 www.opusdai.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING October 2011

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THE

CASUAL DINING and DRINKING OPENING SOON The Old Delivery Office Horseshoe Lane Stamford

stamford@cosyclub.co.uk www.cosyclub.co.uk

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Eating Out

Cosy Club opening soon in Stamford Nicholas Rudd-Jones visits the Old Post Office and discovers a big package due to be opened on Nov 2

I

recently met with the ebullient Alex Reilley, whose business card describes him as ‘Head Honcho’ of Loungers/ Cosy Club to see how they were getting on with the redevelopment of Stamford’s old sorting office. He and his team have already developed several successful Cosy Clubs in the south west, notably Cirencester and Bath, where they have become very popular.

Jake I was absolutely amazed Bishop, by what I saw. Unless Operations Director for you were a ‘postie’, Loungers, said: “Stamford is a you are most unlikely beautiful town steeped in history to have seen inside - we believe our playful and eccentric this building; its Cosy Club will thrive here. We are looking main feature is an to bring a strong team together and offer absolutely massive excellent long-term career opportunities. We room with a hugely enjoy what we do and we want our staff to slice of cake, a business impressive roof feel the same - our pre-opening and ‘on lunch or a dinner for two. lantern, like an the job’ training - which includes expert Menu options range from old railway station. guidance from one of Europe’s top traditional rib-eye steak This will be the main baristas - is fun as well as highly with peppercorn sauce to area of the restaurant, informative.” confit of duck with garlic mash comfortably holding 250 or sweet potato, butternut squash guests split between dining and spinach curry. The menu also offers and drinking areas. On the floor a wide variety of tapas and gourmet burgers. above there is another large room with great For younger guests, the children’s menu views of the town for private functions/parties presents classics including sausage and root etc. that could accommodate 40-60 people. mash, battered cod and chips, and a red lentil The renovation is designed to keep as many and potato bake. All of this is served in a cosy, features of the 30s building as possible, which relaxed, and informal atmosphere. See their includes a huge sliding internal ‘goods’ door, website at http://cosyclub.co.uk for the menu. parquet flooring, metal grilles on the windows, When describing what to expect from the cast-iron radiators and one or two signs from Cosy Club, Alex Reilley told me: “Think gents post office days including a huge ‘Smoking club meets village hall, meets cricket pavilion Prohibited’ sign. and you’re half-way there. The Cosy Clubs are The Cosy Club caters for all ages and tastes playful, eccentric and unashamedly celebrate throughout the day. The flexibility of its all-day all-things Blighty.” food and drink menu means that it fits almost My sense is that this place will be a great any mood or occasion, be it a coffee and a

Cosy Club, Bath success; a very characterful location, a simple flexible menu and based on a proven model.

• The Cosy Club will be open 9am-11pm each day, 12.30 on Fridays and Saturdays. Opens Wed Nov 2nd

Cosy Club, Bath PS they are also looking for passionate and friendly local people to join its team.

Enquire via their website

Kings Head, Apethorpe, reopens

Lord Nelson in Oakham

It’s an idyllic country pub which many people have missed during its brief period of closure, but now the King’s Head Apethorpe is open for business again, managed by new leaseholders Simon Forbes and Charlotte Bussey. The young couple will be offering traditional English home cooked food and all day Sunday lunches, and recreating the friendly, relaxed atmosphere for which the establishment was known previously. “Simon has lived in the village for six years and it was the first pub he worked at,” explains Charlotte. “He always said that he’d like to run it, and now we have the chance. It’s very exciting.”

• For opening hours, events and up to date information, visit www.kingsheadapethorpe.co.uk or call 01780 470627

Mick Thurlby has recently bought the site of the former Nick’s Restaurant in the Marketplace in Oakham and is renovating it with a view to re-opening in time for Christmas, restoring its previous name of ‘The Lord Nelson’. The whole space will be converted into drinking/eating areas, not unlike the Tobie Norris in Stamford, so there will no longer be accommodation there.

Should provide a bright new venue for the town.

Scene Tapas Bar The Mai Thai Bistro in Cheyne Lane, which had only recently opened, has been replaced by The Scene Tapas Bar (under the same ownership). Any reviews/feedback would be appreciated, the couple of times I have been past, there has been quite a crowd.

Garden House Hotel: correction Our apologies for getting the incorrect number in last month’s review. It should be 01780 763359 STAMFORD LIVING October 2011

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L’Oliveto Uno

ntic Italian & Authe iterranean Cuisine d e M

L’Oliveto Due

Let the memory begin

14 Church Street Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6AA Tel: 01572 759656

Relive your holiday and enjoy the warm welcoming atmosphere of our child friendly family restaurants by visiting our centrally located Oakham restaurant or our beautiful restaurant in the idyllic setting overlooking Rutland Water.

Our Executive Chef Aldo Longhi has cooked for some of Italy’s most well known celebrities and politicians and he looks forward to welcoming you to the ambience and glorious tastes of Italy!

Fisher Lodge Normanton Road, South Shore Rutland Water, Rutland, LE15 8HD - Tel: 01780 721599

We look forward to seeing you.

Christmas menu available Nov 1st

Open: 10am – 11pm 7 days a week for Coffee, Lunch & Dinner

Both restaurants available for Weddings, Christenings and Parties Please call for reservations and further details.

Open 7am – 11pm 7 days a week for Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea & Dinner

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T he W illiam C eC il

at Stamford

• Come and sample our tasty new Game Menu • Try out our hi-tech conference facilities in beautiful Darcy & Bennet • Come and host a Christmas party in the magnificent Burghley Room • Or host a spectacular wedding in the marquee

The William Cecil St Martins, Stamford. PE9 2LJ E: enquiries@thewilliamcecil.co.uk

01780 750070

www.thewilliamcecil.co.uk

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

Christmas & Winter Parties 2011 Hambleton Hall provides a perfect setting for Christmas & Winter Parties for 6 - 60 guests, November to December

Canapés, 3 Course Dinner Coffee & homemade Chocolates

£37.50 per person No charge for private room hire.

At the end of the evening why not stay the night.

Our bedrooms are from £245.00 per night, based on 2 people sharing one of our standard bedrooms, this includes full Hambleton breakfast & vat.

Menu Tian of Smoked Salmon & Caviar *** Free Range Turkey cooked in salt crust pastry with traditional accompaniments *** Prune & Armagnac Soufflé *** Coffee & homemade Chocolates All menus are subject to a discretionary service charge of 12.5% Excluding the Christmas, New Year period.

Subject to availability.

For larger parties, hotel accommodation may be required.

Aaron Patterson, head chef, specialises in top seasonal local ingredients to create modern British cuisine, with an award winning wine list full of delicious bottles.

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

hambleton, oakham, Rutland, le15 8th tel: 01572 756991 FaX: 01572 724721 email: hotel@hambletonhall.com Web: www.hambletonhall.com

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SEAN’S KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL

A game of squash With nights drawing in and a nip in the air, it’s time to plump for pumpkin. By Sean Hope, head chef at the Olive Branch, Clipsham

SEAN’S QUICKFIRE RE CIPE

Spi ced pu m pk in so u p

1kg diced pumpkin flesh 1 onion – peeled and cho pped 2 cloves garlic – peeled and chopped 1/2 teaspo on fresh red chilli – finel y chopped 1/2 teaspo on ground cumin/ground coriander and turmeric – singed in a hot frying pan 1 teaspoon honey 1/2 glass dry white wine 1 litre vegetable/chicken stock

P

umpkin is one of the stars of autumn. Big, round, bold and colourful in looks and flavour, their colour echoes that of the leaves on the trees. And when you’ve eaten their sweet, tender flesh, you can carve their shells into Halloween lanterns. Perfect!

British pumpkin season starts at the beginning of October and lasts right up until the end of the year, and it’s worth remembering that smaller pumpkins tend to have more flavour, while monster ones can sometimes be a little watery and tasteless.

Butternut squash has a similar flavour to pumpkin and these two vegetables can often be used interchangeably. Butternut squash tends to be a little sweeter and has a smoother texture, but both work well with salty and sour ingredients.

A good way to think about squashes is to imagine them forming a tasty bassline over which pungent herbs and spices can create exciting treble notes, combining to make sweet music!

1. In a large saucepan add a drizzle of rapeseed oil and roast off the pumpkin, onion and garlic until gol den brown.

2. Add the honey and coo k for a further 2 minutes 3. Deglaze with the win e and completely reduce by boi ling rapidly 4. Add the chilli and spi ces and cook for a further 2 mins 5. Add the stock, then bri ng to the boil 6. Simmer for 20 mins, then remove from the heat 7. Blend until smooth wit h a stick blender 8. Ladle into large soup bowls and serve with fresh choppe d coriander, some beetroot crisps and crusty warm bread

Sean’s kitchen essentials This month it’s the Bamix stick blender, which is perfect for making purées, coulis and for whipping. This make is the best on the market in my opinion and doesn’t come cheap at around £100. Mine is almost 20 years old and is still going strong, so that’s why professional chefs love this gadget.

Versatile and durable.

Here are some flavour combinations to try with pumpkin and butternut squash at home. As usual, have fun with them, experiment and make up your own dishes.

With almonds With bacon With chilli With mushroom With garlic With lime With lemon

8

With nutmeg With saffron With pork With rosemary With sage With shellfish

NENE VALLEY LIVING July 2008

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Sean’s seasonal must-buys for October What Sean will be cooking with at the Olive Branch, Clipsham Meat – partridge and mallard Fish – lemon sole and red mullet Veg – parsnips and salsify Fruit – blackberries and quince STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2011

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DIARY DATES

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

Thursday 13 October EVENT: The Hidden Mysteries and Secrets of Stamford Town Hall Find out when and why the Town Hall was built, the history of the three Stamford Town Maces and discover the bull running in Stamford. A fascinating talk from Stamford Town Council’s Mace Bearer, Ian Hall.

Ancaster Studio, Stamford High School Tickets £5 from Helen Gibbons Tel: 01780 480267

Saturday 8 October, 8pm COMEDY: Russell Kane – The Manscaping Tour Join Fosters Comedy Award Winner Russell Kane, as he mercilessly explores the ridiculous state of masculinity in the modern world.

South Holland Centre, Spalding Tickets £17.50 Tel: 01775 764777 http://www.southhollandcentre.co.uk/

Saturday 8 to Sunday 16 October - Burghley Flower Festival EVENT: Autumn at Burghley The State Rooms are transformed with beautiful floral displays created by local flower societies, who took their ideas from the painted ceilings, art or original purpose of the room.

Admission to the Flower Festival is free with regular admission price.

Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 October EVENT: Craft Fair Burghley Park will host over 150 Craftsmen and Demonstrators, such as Artists, Designers, Jewellery Makers, Wood Turners, Glass Blowers, Basket Makers as well as children’s entertainment, string puppet shows and various Make and Take Areas. The Fine Food Hall has extensively grown over the last few years and is now recognised as a major feature to the shows and includes a large number of specialist food stands and food accessories.

Admission to the Fair is £6/£5/£2

Sunday 9 October, from 9am EVENT: The World Conker Championships The aim of the Championships is not only to crown the Champion of the World but also to raise money for charities for the blind and visually impaired which last year included the RNIB, Guide Dogs for the Blind, Vista and Rutland Sailability – over £21,000 in total.

To enter or for more information, http://www. worldconkerchampionships.com/ New Lodge Fields, near Oundle Admission £4/£2, Family Ticket £10 with parking free.

Wednesday 26 to Saturday 29 October, 7.30pm OPERA: The Merry Widow

Peterborough Opera perform Lehar’s much loved opera starring local soprano and popular music tutor Caroline Trutz in the lead role. Caroline studied singing in Paris and London and teaches at Nottingham University as well as local schools and choral societies.

Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre Tickets £12/£11 Tel: 01780 766455 http:// www.stamford-corn-exchange.co.uk/

Friday 28 October, from 10am EVENT: STADFAS Young Arts Day In the morning 6-9 year olds can make their own African mask and Ashanti jewellery and in the afternoon, 10-14 year olds can learn to make African sculptures, prints and paintings.

The Art Room, Stamford Arts Centre £2 per child, booking Tel: 01780 763203 http://www.stamfordartscentre.co.uk/

Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 October Pumpkin Trail Taking place in the Garden of Surprises - go in search of hidden pumpkins.

The trail is free with regular admission price.

Burghley House, Stamford For more information on the Burghley events programme http://www.burghleyhouse.co.uk./

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STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2011

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FAMILY SHOWS AND WORKSHOPS FOR THE OCTOBER BREAK...

Saturday 8 October, 2pm The Snow Dragon On New Year’s Eve, Billy’s parents tell him about the legendary Snow Dragon who will bring him goodies during the night, but when Billy bumps into some wolves in the woods, New Year’s Day seems a long way away. Find out how Billy escapes and whether the Snow Dragon will bring him a present.

Story-telling, comedy and songs. Suitable for ages 3 plus.

Stamford Arts Centre. Tickets £6.50/family ticket £24 Tel: 01780 763203 http://www.stamfordartscentre.co.uk/

Sunday 23 to Friday 28 October Wildcats Theatre School Holiday Workshops Lots going on this October beginning with a trip to the world famous Pineapple Dance Studios, followed by daily themed workshops throughout the week. All programmes are suitable for children aged 5-16 with or without experience.

For prices and booking information Tel: 07725 915333 http://www.wildcatstheatreschool.co.uk/

Monday 24 October, 2pm The Selfish Giant Springs Dance Company present a captivating and inventive new show based on the much loved tale by Oscar Wilde. Audiences aged 5 to 105 will love this magical, big hearted production. Take part in the pre-show workshops with Springs Dance Company from 10am for ages 8 to 10 and 11.15am for ages 5 to 7.

Stamford Arts Centre Tickets: £7/£6.50 Tel: 01780 763203 http://www.stamfordartscentre.co.uk/

Tuesday 25, Wednesday 26 and Thursday 27 October (times vary) Creative Workshops Join in a variety of workshops from Romany Art, Spooky Cookery, Skulls and Skeletons Craft, Drama and Storytelling plus a guided tour. All workshops suitable for children aged between 7 and 12 years.

John Clare Cottage, Helpston Tickets £4 per child per session, booking and further information Tel: 01733 253330 or http://www.clarecottage.org/

Wednesday 26 October, 2pm Bollo’s Birthday Surprise A Starbright Entertainment Production It’s Bollo the bear’s birthday but it seems everyone has forgotten! Will Phil and Aimi manage to keep his surprise party a secret as preparations cause chaos and lots of mess? Catchy songs, simple sign language and plenty of laughs. Suitable for all, the show features ultra violet puppetry.

Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre Tickets £6/£5 Tel: 01780 766455 http://www.stamford-corn-exchange.co.uk/

Thursday 27 October, 1.30pm and 4.30pm Wizard of Oz The classic story follows the adventures of Dorothy, a young girl who is transported over the rainbow where she encounters the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion. Their adventures finally lead them to the Emerald City, where mayhem and mischief await them. Suitable for children of all ages and their families.

South Holland Centre, Spalding Tickets £8.50/£10 Tel: 01775 764777 http://www.southhollandcentre.co.uk/

Saturday 29 October, 2pm The Snow Dog When a young girl’s favourite toy comes to life they discover a wild world where dangers wait for human and animal alike. For this young girl, the gift of a toy dog from her grandfather starts a journey that will eventually help her answer the biggest question - why has he gone away?

Giant puppets and contemporary dance with original music and songs. Suitable for ages 6 plus.

Stamford Theatre Tickets £7/family ticket £25 (4) Tel: 01780 763203 http://www.stamfordartscentre.co.uk/

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23/9/11 10:28:44

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PERSPECTIVES

ASK LEO

Ryhall Station

More Railway Stories

This account is from J.L a reader in Swindon.

“The feature on the Stamford-Essendine railway was of particular interest. My late Grandfather, George Lister, was signalman at Stamford East until his death in 1950. My late Grandmother, Lucy, continued to live at the East Station House until her death in the early 1970s. I well remember the “Coffee Pot” and many of the railway staff including Jack Day, Ron Wade, Percy Holwell and Horace Lilley. I well remember from childhood visits, the daily

delivery of brick samples from Williamson Cliff which were dispatched from Stamford East to destinations throughout the country and visits to the siding serving Blackstone for the movement of finished units from its works on Ryhall Road.”

Ryhall and Belmesthorpe station Thank you very much M.F for the picture of this Station. We haven’t had any further information about the Station House at Essendine, built in 1912 and A.M would really like to know more about it.

The Coffee Pot D.W used the train to go to the technical school in Grantham and also remembers the train being called the ‘Coffee Pot’. Mr Day, the driver lived in the row of cottages next to the station.

Mr Kite Kettle was the fireman. (He had served in the 1st Lincolnshire Regiment and passed away recently)

... and a question about the Oakham train Does anyone know the origins of the name “Dozzy” that was given by my wife and fellow schoolgirls in the 1960s, to the train that used to run between Oakham and Stamford mornings and evenings? I believe it was drawn by a steam locomotive, probably an LNER tank engine. A.R

Lansbury Hall Cummins Social Club in Blackfriars Street has an interesting history. The Primitive Methodist Chapel occupied this site in the 19th century. It was built entirely of corrugated iron and had a steeple.

Subsequently the building was extended and became a roller skating rink. Skating became less popular and by 1916 the building was a cinema, “The Picture Palace”.

It was also used for variety shows. In the1920s a fire destroyed the building and the Labour Party acquired the site and with a number of volunteers made it their headquarters and function room. It was opened by George Lansbury who was leader of the party and named Lansbury Hall in his honour. The Labour Party bought Number 3 St Mary’s Place in the 1940s and moved there in the 1950s using the ground floor as their headquarters. Lansbury Hall became a discount store then Newage Social Club. (Thank you MW for this information.)

An infamous resident

More about the Sailing Club

Phil Snowden was a member of the Stamford Boating Club when it first opened in Water St in about 1958 and sent this picture saying,”I won the Nichols (Mayor) canoe cup with my friend Pete Nichols Canoe cup 1958 and P Snowden with West in 1958. There tankard and cup were not many canoes at the time and it was a little unfair as half the entrants were FOR THE NEXT ASK LEO PAGE in rowing boats. The race was from the • What is the origin of the American swimming pool bridge to the Boat Club Presidential seal on the building opposite halfway between the Town Bridge and the Old Barn Restaurant. L.Y. Albert Bridge.” The prize was a cup and • Please send your memories of Lansbury a tankard.

Hall to share with other readers.

John Haigh (1909 - hanged 1949) was the Acid Bath Murderer who killed at least six people and dissolved their bodies in acid (he thought if there were no bodies there could be no charge). He was born in Stamford but moved to Yorkshire shortly afterwards. (from F.R.)

Book Token - to MW for all the information about Lansbury Hall STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2011

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23/9/11 10:38:49

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STAMFORD PEOPLE

JOHN FOUNTAIN STAMFORD ARTISTS GALLERY Harjit Gammon braves a torrential downpour to meet the rather aptly named John Fountain, owner of Stamford Artists Gallery (together with his wife Carole), artist and long time Stamford resident

S

tamford Artists Gallery, Fountain’s ‘garret’, is tucked away down Maiden Lane with just a small window, and rather inconspicuous door letting out onto the street. Peering in through this tiny sash window, one will usually spy John sitting at a small desk in a corner, reading.

As I entered, dripping from the torrential outburst, I was struck by a heady scent. The gallery was infused with the fragrance of roses, from his garden. On the gallery table was a basket of pullet eggs, from his ten chickens.

Things were looking promising, it was worth getting drenched.

John ushered me in with charming old world politeness, relieving me of my rain-sodden umbrella and coat, and offers of tea. We chatted amidst the works of the local artists for whom the gallery is named.

John apologetically hoped I wouldn’t be disappointed, “I’m not a very interesting person,” he offered. Born in Boston, the son of a Boston River pilot, he was fostered between the ages of 6 and 10 years, when his mother joined the ATS. During this time he enjoyed a very rural upbringing in the evocatively named Old Leake. After the war he moved back to live with his mother in Yorkshire.

In 1949 Fountain entered Bradford Art College, which for those of you with an interest in, or artistic bent will know was also the alma mater of David Hockney. “He arrived in the last term I was there. I didn’t know him. (He)

70

Always wore a white smock, hiding behind a huge imperial drawing board. He was quite a character even then.” Fountain still draws and paints, specialising principally in portraits, some of which are available for sale in the gallery alongside the works of the local artists whose work comprises the bulk of the gallery’s material.

The list of artists is a veritable who’s who of the local art fraternity; including the likes of Peter Barker, Martin Brough, Jean de Gale - “a very fine artist”, Leigh Parry, a retired doctor, Joanna Crawford, Gladys Teesdale, Chris Adams, Anthony Lay, Alan Oliver, James Wright, Sam Burden, Michael Roffe, Sue van Silver and Graham Wright amongst others.

Meanwhile alongside the picture sales, John

“I have a sympathetic eye for artist’s work. It’s almost an instinctive understanding of what’s needed with a frame”

is “still working hard as a picture framer, my main occupation”. Besides a lot of framing work for discerning local artists, “people come from miles away - which is very pleasing - St Neots, Corby, Oundle, Kettering, Peterborough.

I’m passionate about it and love doing it”. This work also extends to restoring pictures. “It’s wonderful to be able to help someone with a problem that they might have with a painting or watercolour. It’s wonderful to be able to give it a new lease of life. And I love restoring old paintings too.” He tells me of the immense satisfaction of working on an oil painting found in a cellar, splashed with lime wash, which he cleaned, retouched and repaired two holes in recently. His enthusiasm and passion are visibly evident. “It was fantastic I was able to do that, very satisfying. White spirit, acetone - any of the oil painting mediums wouldn’t touch it”.

Then there was the case of a pre-Raphaelite Old Master. The stretcher of the Rossetti in question had split and the painting needed to be fitted back into its frame. “I have a sympathetic eye for artist’s work. It’s almost an instinctive understanding of what’s needed with a frame”.

Not a stranger to hard work, he left the army in 1955 (after 3 enjoyable but uneventful years in Germany, where he painted a mural on the dining hall in Berlin and gave lessons in drawing at the education centre), and got a job as a bus driver in Leicester for about four years, ”very boring”. This was followed by the opening of a café/snack bar. His subsequent marriage to Carole signalled the purchase of a restaurant, which he and Carole ran for 15 years, serving fish & chips and “ordinary dishes”. “By the time we left we were serving around 40 lunches a day, with a choice of 4 dishes, open 12-2, 5-11, six nights a week. We were very young and fit and we wanted to make a success of things. So we worked very hard. But eventually we got fed up with it and bought this place, 31 years ago.”

The house was originally bought with the intention of running it as a guest house, and the gallery was the children’s playroom. They set about renovating and getting things ship shape, and started having children (3), so soon there were not enough bedrooms for a guest house!

It was then that the idea of running a gallery was conceived. The gallery opened in 1980, with Fountain working as a milkman for the first five years to support them. Carole ran the gallery in the mornings with John taking over at midday.

“We worked commendably hard, but are taking it a little easier now that we are closed Sundays and Mondays”. Much deserved it is too, for this couple, who also perform a duty promoting their beloved Stamford to the many tourists who visit the gallery and love to chat and marvel at how lovely the town is.

STAMFORD LIVING October 2011

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