Derbyshire Guardian Issue 29

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45p Where Sold

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INSIDE

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Sir Joseph Paxton

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The Silk Mill

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Formula E Sports

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Golf Holidays

RIVERLIGHTS INVESTMENT TO HELP DERBY REDISCOVER RIVER I

nvestment in Derby’s Riverlights complex could help Derby to rediscover its river. That is the hope of Marketing Derby managing director John Forkin after the Moorfield Group has bought Riverlights out of administration in a deal worth £16.5 million.

“Derby, like so many industrial cities, turned its back on the river and has been slow to turn around to face it again,” he said. “This investment is just part of that and people are starting to understand that the river is a massive asset for the city and we should be moving towards it, not away from it.”

News of the Riverlights sale

swiftly followed that of the Heritage Lottery Fund support for Derby Museums’ Derby Silk Mill – Museum of Making project, also a key river front location.

“Looking back three or four years, a lot of the buildings along the river were empty, so bit-by-bit it’s all been reclaimed,” Mr Forkin added. “If you look now along the River Derwent, you’ve got the Silk Mill, Cathedral Green, a hotel and apartment complex under construction, the Magistrates Court and Council House have been renewed and now you’ve got an investor into Riverlights itself. Derby is here because of the river. The Romans built the original encampments because

of the crossing of the Derwent and the industrial museum is here because of the river.”

Riverlights opened in 2010 and has two city centre hotels, the Holiday Inn and Hampton by Hilton, together with the Genting Casino and the Derby Bus Station, but it never realised the vision of revitalising the waterfront before the recession took hold.

Derby Riverlights Developments Ltd went into receivership and the property has been for sale through property firm Colliers International. Built for around £100 million, the complex was initially offered for £23 million.

>> Continues on page 3

2 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

MULTI-MILLION POUND MAKEOVER FOR SILK MILL MUSEUM Derby’s historic Silk Mill Museum is set for a multimillion pound makeover after the Heritage Lottery Fund have awarded development funding of £817,300 to help Derby Museums progress their plans to apply for the full grant of £9.38m at a later date. The earmarked funding means the project meets HLF criteria for funding and the project has potential to deliver high-quality benefits and value for Lottery money. The application was in competition with other supportable projects, so this is an endorsement of outline proposals. The project now has up to two years to submit fully developed proposals to secure a firm award.

Derby Museums’ Derby Silk Mill – Museum of Making project will sustainably redevelop the Derby Silk Mill, the site of the world’s first factory and part of the UNESCO Derwent Valley Mills

World Heritage Site, to create an inspirational new museum uniquely made in collaboration with people of Derby. The new museum will open in 2020 and will be ‘Inspired by the Makers of the past, made by the makers of today and empowering the makers of the future.

The full project costs are predicted to be £16.4m, £4m of which has been committed by Derby City Council.

“This is great news,” said Ranjit Banwait, Leader of Derby City Council. “We have a commitment to safeguard the future of the Silk Mill. The plans are also part of our 15 year vision for Derby and the ambitions of the project also fit perfectly with the cultural vision of the city, helping Derby become a more vibrant place by using its valuable and unique heritage to do so. It will inspire many people,

“We have a commitment to safeguard the future of the Silk Mill. The plans are also part of our 15 year vision for Derby“

The annual Maker Faire builds on the site’s heritage.

The Silk Mill is part of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site.

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particularly young people who will be encouraged to create ambitions of their own.”

Peter Smith, Chair of Derby Museums Trust added “I am delighted that Derby Museums has been successful in our bid, it demonstrates the confidence that HLF have in the Trust. The new Museum of Making will be a place to celebrate the essence of our city and will deliver significant social and economic impacts for Derby.”

The project once complete will reveal the whole building for the first time, re-introducing manufacturing to the site of the world’s first factory by involving people in the making and creating of the new museum . The new Museum will celebrate Derby’s heritage as a city of makers through its internationally, regionally and locally significant collections and provide public access to all of these collections. It will provide opportunities for local people to gain new skills and experiences and will aim to raise aspirations of future generations of innovators and makers.

Derby Silk Mill is built on the foundations of the first factory in the world. The new Museum of Making will bring to light Derby Museums’ significant collections of Making and Social History, the story of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site and the continuing influence of Derby today.

The former industrial museum was taken over

by Derby Museums Trust in 2012 following its mothballing in 2011. Since then Derby Museums has re-opened the building four days a week following a capital refurbishment of the ground floor supported by Derby City Council capital funding and strategic funding from Arts Council England.

This innovative refurbishment programme, entitled Re:Make the Museum, engaged local communities and partners in co-designing and co-making all of the aspects needed for the prototype museum of

making, through volunteer programmes using onsite workshops and industry-standard equipment and techniques. Over 200 regular volunteers have contributed more than 8000 hours to Re:Make and the co-production approaches that Derby Museums has developed led to the organisation’s recent award of Major Partner Museum Status by Arts Council England, specifying a sector-leadership role for the organisation on a national stage.

Through the Re:Make programme and partnership work, Derby Museums has defined ‘Derby Making’ as the ‘material culture and ideas resulting from the knowledge, skills, experience and activities of the people of Derby and its environs’. A clear narrative runs through 300 years of the city’s history. The original factory was commissioned by the Lombe brothers in about 1719, after conducting industrial espionage in Italy, and completed by local engineer George Sorocold in 1721-22. The Mill was designed to make silk thread using the new idea of the factory system and utilised a large, powerful waterwheel to drive all of the machinery, which was worked by an organised force of employees. The Mill was an immediate ‘wonder’ and marvelled at throughout the 18th century by many commentators, including Daniel Defoe and Benjamin Franklin.

The manufacturing features of the mill provided a prototype for Richard Arkwright’s cotton mill at Cromford and thus for all subsequent iterations of the factory system worldwide. The original mill buildings were damaged, repaired and altered over time. They show 300 years of industrial enterprise in the Derwent Valley, acknowledged in its status as a World Heritage Site.

Rolls-Royce, whose largest site is in Derby, has committed one of its iconic Trent aircraft engines to the new museum, giving the project a significant boost.

This addition to the city’s collection represents Derby’s 21st century story of making and innovation.

The Derby Silk Mill Museum.

“Great news” says Cllr Ranjit Banwait.

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Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 3

CHELSEA – CHATSWORTH STEALS THE SHOW

Artist Paul Cummins.

The Laurent-Perrier Chatsworth garden.

W

hat a debut! Not only did the LaurentPerrier Chatsworth garden win a gold medal in the large show garden category at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, the following day the garden was also named as Best in Show.

Viewed from all sides, the Chatsworth show garden created a beautiful representation of a small, less trodden, part of the 105 acre garden at Chatsworth.

With designer Dan Pearson’s passion for naturalism and the wilder side of gardening, the exhibit was inspired by Chatsworth’s ornamental trout stream and Sir Joseph Paxton’s 19th century rockery.

Planting reflected the lightness, freshness and delicacy of the Laurent-Perrier’s 200-year-old familyowned champagne house. To create the garden, ten truck loads of large rocks were transported from Chatsworth to the show site at Chelsea.

That Pearson took inspiration from Sir Joseph Paxton’s legacy at Chatsworth is most fitting as this year marks the 150th anniversary of Paxton’s death, (see page ??) a wonderful tribute to Chatsworth’s celebrated head gardener.

This was designer Dan’s first appearance at Chelsea for eleven years. “It’s been good to be away and get some thinking time, to come back and do something with some new energy,” he said. “We feel like we’ve created something beautiful here. It’s been the most amazing team exercise doing this and without everybody who’s been on that team we

would not have been able to pull it off.

“It is really important that this garden has a life after the show so all the plants are going back to rejuvenate the trout stream which was the inspiration for the garden in the first place.”

"We are delighted that the Laurent-Perrier Chatsworth garden has been awarded Best in Show,” remarked the Duke of Devonshire afterwards.

"Working closely with the team at Chatsworth, Laurent-Perrier and (garden builder) Crocus, Dan Pearson has created an inspiring space at Chelsea that truly captures the spirit of the historic Chatsworth Garden. Many of the plantings will return to the trout stream, so we are thrilled that the legacy of the Laurent-Perrier Chatsworth garden at Chelsea will live on for visitors to enjoy for many years to come.”

The standard of the large show gardens was extremely high with 7 of the 15 awarded gold medals, so this was an outstanding performance by Dan and the Chatsworth team, but it was not the only talking point from Derbyshire at the show.

Paul Cummins, the Derbyshire artist who created the 'Blood

RIVERLIGHTS INVESTMENT TO HELP DERBY REDISCOVER RIVER

DRIVING LICENCE COUNTERPART TO BE SCRAPPED

Drivers will no longer need to keep

Swept Lands and Seas of Red’ commemorative installation of ceramic poppies at the Tower of London last year, unveiled a dramatic new tulipinspired sculpture which took centre stage in the Great Pavilion. He had been inspired by his research into Tulipmania, a movement in 17th century history which saw the much-loved tulip become an obsession in the Netherlands with single bulbs changing hands for the price of a house. The 8m high sculpture, called Candy, is covered with 2,300 hand-painted ceramic tulips.

Paul Cummins ‘Candy’ sculpture.

hold of the paper counterpart.

Motorists will no longer require the paper counterpart of the modern driving licence after 8th June. Only the photo-card licence will be required in law and the counterpart can be destroyed.

Penalty points and endorsements, currently displayed on the counterpart, will be held on the DVLA’s driver record and can be checked on-line, by phone or by post. Their free View Driving Licence service allows drivers to see all the details held about themselves by the DVLA, including vehicle ownership.

The current two-part licence was introduced in 1998 with a photo on the card part and penalty points and endorsements shown on the paper counterpart. Drivers needing to change information held by the DVLA , such as name or address, will now be issued with a photo-card only.

The old-style paper driving licence, issued before the two-part licence was introduced, will still be valid. Drivers having this type of licence must not destroy them.

This move comes just months after the DVLA scrapped the vehicle licence disc displayed in car windscreens, part of an on-going process to make things less complicated for motorists.

GREAT WEATHER FOR DUCKS

>> Continues from front page “Riverlights hasn’t achieved what people thought it might do and it really needs some serious attention given to it.

We feel Moorfields are the group to do that,” said Mr Forkin.

Assets such as Riverlights are fundamental in ensuring that we are able to provide the very best experiences to visitors and its enhancement really could help Derby rediscover the river.

“One of the things a group like that need, when making these investments, is convincing about the case for Derby because they are putting money into Riverlights in order to make further investment to develop it, to fill out those retail units that are empty, to open up the city to the riverside and achieve some of that original vision.”

Moorfields will be actively seeking to fill the four or five empty units with high profile leisure and retail operators and provide an attractive waterfront destination.

Similar developments have proved extremely successful in other major cities and Mr Forkin hopes that Derby will benefit from an increase in visitors. “The river is absolutely fantastic, but it’s not been a very attractive part of the city. Assets such as Riverlights are fundamental in ensuring that we are able to provide the very best experiences to visitors and its enhancement really could help Derby rediscover the river.”

The British spring weather is well known its occasional showers. Overnight rainfall, in May, left some large puddles and, while we may reach for a brolly before leaving home, the ducks in Derby were making the most of it.

Derbyshire Guardian’s eagle-eyed photographer spotted a pair of mallards enjoying the weather, swimming around in Derby’s Tennant Street just behind the QUAD building.

4 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

THOUSANDS OF MOTORISTS HANDED FINES Thousands of motorists have fallen foul of Derby City Council’s crackdown on them using a bus stop as a dropping-off point outside Derby’s railway station.

Others have incurred penalties for driving in bus lanes. The cost to Derby’s motorists could be in excess of £350,000.

A CCTV camera, mounted on the corner of Railway Terrace and Midland Road, has been in operation to monitor the railway station bus stop since 15th December last year. Now 7185 fixed penalty fines have been issued in the period up to the end of April. This is a massive rise on the figure of 666 penalties issued in the period July-to-November when patrols were carried out by traffic wardens, on foot, and CCTV camera cars.

The £70 fixed penalty for straying into the railway station bus stop is reduced to £35 if paid within 21 days. The penalty for using a bus lane is £60 reduced to £30 by similarly prompt payment.

The bus lanes incurring penalties are the Nottingham Road approach to the Pentagon roundabout, Friar Gate and Siddals Road. Some 3,766 penalty notices have been issued for these infringements with the Nottingham Road bus lane accounting for two thirds of these.

Many of these penalties will be for drivers moving into the bus lane early, crossing the solid white line from the back of the queue.

The council are keen to promote the use of public transport as a means of reducing pollution, but the bus companies complained that they were being held up by inconsiderate motorists. CCTV monitoring of these bus lanes began on 21st January.

Fines for the railway station bus stop are being issued to anyone moving into the bus stop area.

Some drivers have realised their error and quickly moved on, but have still been penalised.

Motorist Clive Lound successfully appealed against his fine for stopping briefly in the bus stop on 22nd December. Realising his mistake, he found an alternative place to drop his passenger, but still received a £70 penalty notice.

He appealed to the Traffic Penalty Tribunal who overturned the decision. The council have since improved signage in the area which, at the time, was criticised by the tribunal as ‘not adequate to warn drivers of the restrictions’.

Conservative leader, Councillor Philip Hickson, has argued that the penalties are purely a fund raising exercise as there are no public safety issues at these locations. “Arrangements for

picking-up and dropping-off at the station are highly unsatisfactory and motorists are being fined unfairly,” he said.

Not so, responded Councillor Asaf Afzal, cabinet member for transport, who pointed out that the council have spent money to raise the kerbs at the bus stop to help the elderly and disabled use the buses safely. Cars parked in the bus stop would prevent buses accessing the stop correctly and drivers letting people off the bus in the road could be a serious safety issue.

It is understood that over twenty buses per hour use this stop at peak times and the stop is in use around the clock. No other city bus stops are being monitored.

Motorists dropping-off, or pickingup, at the station are encouraged to use short stay and free dropoff zones as indicated by local signage.

Motorists now appear to be taking notice of the revised signage as the rate of penalties issued has halved between January and April. Fines for misuse of bus lanes are also decreasing. “CCTV cameras are the only effective way in which we can challenge the behaviour of some drivers,” said Councillor Afzal.

The camera that is generating the bus stop penalties.

A motorist leaves the far end of the railway station bus stop.

Signage has recently been improved.

Nottingham Road bus lane has caught out a lot of drivers.

The Stars of ITV’s Emmerdale Come to Derbyshire for Charity Cricket Match

A

Sign indicating where drivers can safely stop.

Another bus arrives at the bus stop.

host of stars from ITV’s drama Emmerdale, are heading over the border to Derbyshire on 21st June to help Cromford Meadows Cricket Club celebrate its 150th anniversary with a match that will pit celebrities against Club players to raise money for charity.

Familiar faces from the popular soap will include Chris Chittell (Eric Pollard), Matthew Wolfenden (David Metcalfe), Chris Bisson (Jai Sharma) and Natalie Anderson (Alicia Gallagher), who will all take part in a charity game raising money for blood cancer charity Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research (LLR).

Alex Bunting, Chairman of Cromford Meadows Cricket Club said: “This is a landmark in the Club’s history, and what better way to celebrate than a charity cricket match against some of the best known soap stars on our television today.

“There is also the opportunity for people to enjoy a VIP tea with the stars, it will be a day

to remember for everyone, but most importantly is will help to raise much need funds for the blood cancer charity Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research.

Emma Jones, Regional Fundraising Manager of LLR for the Midlands, said: ‘We are delighted to be supported by Cromford Meadows Cricket Club and the stars of Emmerdale for this charity match. I’d like to say a huge thank you to them all for their wonderful support and wish them the best of luck for the day.

“People don’t realise blood cancers are the third biggest cancer killer and anyone can get blood cancer at any age. Money raised from the cricket match will help us in our mission to beat blood cancer, improve the lives of all those affected, and stop people from dying.”

The day’s event not only includes ITV stars trying to score runs on the anniversary of Cromford Meadows Cricket Club, but it is also the perfect location to soak up cricketing and industrial history. Within sight of Richard

Arkwright’s original cotton mill, acclaimed as the birthplace of the industrial revolution, The Meadows is also where world renowned cricketer W.G. Grace lost a game to a woman in a bet at the turn of the century.

There will also be live music during the event from the excellent vocalist Beth McCarthy (finalist on BBC’s ’The Voice’). In addition an auction will be held of two cricket prints donated by ex-Derbyshire Legend Ole Mortensen, one signed Ole and Michael Holding, the other by Sir Donald Bradman.

It will be an enjoyable day for the whole family, with Kwik Cricket in the morning, from 9.30 to 11.30, a barbecue, bar, ice cream and a bouncy castle.

The celebrity charity match will take place on the rural idyll of Cromford Meadows, where entry is free, and the game will begin at 12.00 with a tea interval from 14.00 to 15.00. There is also the chance to have VIP tea with the stars of Emmerdale, with hospitality available at £20 per person or £150 for a table of eight.

For hospitality and to book your place to have a VIP cricket tea with the guests from Emmerdale please phone Martyn Buswell on 07989 561071 or email cromfordmeadowscc@gmail. com For historical details or interviews please contact Chris Thompson - email on chris@caview.plus. com For any other details please contact - Alex Bunting, Chairman, CMCC, alex.bunting@iholland. co.uk M: 07845300622

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 5

6 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

SIR JOSEPH PAXTON – A REMARKABLE MAN

Chatsworth House.

Sir Joseph Paxton and his iconic Crystal Palace.

The early nineteenth century was a time of great technological invention and creativity and some of our greatest innovators belong to this period – Isambard Kingdom Brunel and George Stephenson to name just a couple.

150 years ago, on the 8th June 1865, another remarkable man, Sir Joseph Paxton, passed away at his home in Sydenham, South London. Whilst not a local man, Sir Joseph lived and worked in Derbyshire for many years and had a profound influence on the county and, indeed, Victorian society as a whole.

Joseph Paxton was born in Milton Bryan, Bedfordshire, on 3rd August 1803, the seventh son of a yeoman farmer. He was badly treated at home and ran away to work as a garden boy at Woburn, where he became an expert botanist, before taking a position at the Horticultural Society’s garden at Chiswick, loaned from the Duke of Devonshire at the neighbouring Chiswick House.

William George Spencer Cavendish, 6th Duke of Devonshire, quickly recognised young Paxton’s talents and in 1826 Joseph Paxton was appointed head gardener at Chatsworth. Here he met Sarah Bown, the housekeeper’s neice and they married in 1827.

Paxton redesigned the gardens around the new north wing of the house and created an arboretum and a pinetum for a collection of conifers. In doing this he developed a skill for moving mature trees the largest of which weighed 8 tons and was moved from Kedleston Road in Derby. His rockery comprises pillars of rocks, each weighing several tons, one pillar named after the Duke of Wellington with a small waterfall flowing into a pond, The Strid, so called after a stretch of water at the Devonshire’s Bolton Abbey estate.

His friendship with the Duke grew and in 1832 Paxton was appointed manager to the Duke’s estates.

Paxton’s botanical interests led him to develope the use of glasshouses for the cultivation of plants.

In 1837 he was sent a cutting of a Guyanan water lily by the Botanical Gardens at Kew. Whilst at Kew the lily had grown, but had not flowered, so Paxton designed a heated pool for the lily with spectacular results. Within months the lily leaves were nearly twelve feet across and the lily had flowered.

It was, however, too large for a conventional greenhouse and so he was to design a lily house and Chatsworth’s Great Conservatory, The Stove, based on the natural engineering design of the lily’s

leaves. The leaves featured radial ribs connected by flexible cross ribs and the rigidity of the structure was tested by floating his daughter, Annie, on one of the leaves. The conservatory was designed with a cheap and light wooden frame and a ridge and furrow roof to let in more light. With a special rafter, designed to act as an internal and external guttering, and hollow pillars doubling as drain pipes the conservatory was modular and the design could easily be adapted for a variety of different shapes and sizes. The conservatory proved expensive to heat and was eventually demolished in 1920.

Between 1838 and 1840 Paxton was responsible for planning the new village of Edensor. The original village was close to Chatsworth House, on the banks of the River Derwent, but the Duke had the village relocated, still within the park, but out of view from the house. One resident refused to move and that house still remains.

In anticipation of a visit to Chatsworth by Tsar Nicholas I of Russia, in 1844, Paxton built the Emperor Fountain which, at full power reaches 280 feet, more than one and a half times the height of Nelson’s Column. To do this 100,000 tons of earth were moved to create the Emperor Lake, on the moor above Chatsworth, to feed the fountain. Sadly the Tsar never made the visit and, as the sluice gate controlling the flow to the fountain is no longer in good order, the fountain is now only used at full power on rare occasions.

Paxton is also responsible for giving the world, what is now, the most commercial variety of a once rare and exotic fruit, the banana, the original plant of which still thrives in the Chatsworth greenhouse today. The Derbyshire Guardian will explore the story behind this in more detail in the next issue.

Elsewhere in Derbyshire Paxton modified the

Paxton’s last resting place at Edensor.

Faded inscription on Paxton’s tomb.

The magnificent Emperor Fountain.

gardens opposite the Crescent in Buxton and created the Serpentine Walk. He also became a director of several railway companies, including the Midland Railway. It was through his railway investments, and taking commissions for other design work, that allowed his to amass his own personal fortune.

With his passion for all things botanical, Paxton became the editor of the Horticultural Register. His own Magazine of Botany was published in 16 annual volumes until 1849 and, among other publications, he founded the Gardener’s Chronicle and the Daily News, appointing Charles Dickens as editor.

It was in 1851, however, that Paxton was to achieve national recognition. Some 245 designs had been received, and rejected, for a hall to house the ‘Great Exhibition of the Works of All Nations’. Based on a scaled up version of his Chatsworth lily house, Paxton submitted his design of the Crystal Palace in London’s Hyde Park in just nine days. Despite public scepticism the building and exhibition were a great success. The Crystal Palace was built, to his modular design, in six months at a cost of £79,800 and comprised of 330 iron columns and 293,665 panes of glass. The structure was 1,848 feet long, 456 feet wide with a height of 135 feet. For this Joseph Paxton received a knighthood from Queen Victoria.

Following the Great Exhibition, the Crystal Palace was relocated at Sydenham, South London, where it remained until destroyed by a fire in 1936.

Paxton continued as head gardener at Chatsworth until the death of his employer, and great friend the Duke, in 1858. He still worked on other projects, designing public parks in Liverpool, Glasgow, Halifax and Scarborough and the gardens of Tatton Park in Cheshire. In 1845 he laid out the country’s

first municipal burial ground in Coventry. Paxton also designed Mentmore Towers, in Buckinghamshire, for Baron Mayer de Rothschild and Château de Ferrières near Paris.

As if all this was not enough, in 1854 Paxton became the Liberal Memder of Parliament for Coventry until his death on 8th June 1865.

Sir Joseph Paxton was buried in the churchyard at Edensor. His wife Sarah remained at their home, on the Chatsworth estate, until her death in 1871.

Sarah’s role in Paxton’s success should not be underestimated. She was extremely capable in the management of her husband’s affairs, leaving him free to concentrate on developing his ideas.

From humble beginnings Sir Joseph Paxton became one of the great names of the Victorian period. It is the skill and enthusiasm in a diverse range of disciplines marks him out as extraordinary, for everything he did bore the hallmark of quality and his attention to detail was exquisite. Paxton was a quite remarkable man and we are fortunate to have much of his surviving legacy here on our doorstep.

Paxton designed the model village of Edensor.

The Strid, part of Paxton’s garden at Chatsworth.

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 7

8 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

HISTORIC MILL SET FOR LUXURY APARTMENTS Work has begun to turn an historic Derbyshire mill into luxury apartments. Victoria Mill, in Town End Road, Draycott, was once the largest lace mill in Europe, but lace production ceased in 1970 and the building has not been used commercially for over twenty years.

Nottingham developer ALB Investments bought the Grade II listed Victorian property last year, in a £7million deal, and now plan to convert it to include 73 one and two-bedroom apartments.

The building has four sections and Roseberry Homes purchased the mill in 2003 with permission to convert the building into apartments. The London developer had only completed one section before going bankrupt, leaving the remainder of the mill building derelict. The mill subsequently fell into disrepair and became a target for vandalism.

The mill began life in 1888 with designer Ernest Hooley taking inspiration from the Bible. The mill is said to have the same proportions as Noah’s Ark. Construction was delayed by a large fire and Victoria Mill was finally completed in 1907. The fourstorey mill became one of the most important lace manufacturing factories in the world.

ALB managing director Arran Bailey recognised the importance of the structure and what it means to the local community. “It’s the sheer size of the building,” he said. It is architecturally very significant to the area and there is a great satisfaction in restoring such a large building which was in such a state of disrepair.”

Mr Bailey says restoring this type of building is never easy. “Bringing a Grade 2 listed building up

Loxley Park is a senior living community in Sheffield, part of Signature Senior Lifestyle Ltd that makes its residents the number one priority by helping them lead enriched, independent lives.

Loxley Park is a stone’s throw away from the picturesque Peak District whilst also being in the vicinity of Sheffield city centre, so residents have the best of both worlds. They revel in the serene surroundings of the community complex, knowing that the hustle and bustle of the cosmopolitan city centre, and chocolate box setting of the Peak District is on their doorstep.

There are two options to choose from, depending on the level of care the prospective resident requires. Firstly, Independent Living means that residents lead their lives autonomously, yet have support should they need it, at their fingertips.

Residents can cook and clean themselves and all maintenance and utility bills are taken care of.

Peak Building Services

“It’s the sheer size of the building, It is architecturally very significant to the area and there is a great satisfaction in restoring such a large building which was in such a state of disrepair.” to building regs is always a challenge. This was in a state of very bad repair.

“We are looking to complete it in February 2016,” he added, “creating good quality, high spec, one and two bedroom apartments. The majority will be to let.”

If cooking is not your forte, you can dine in the fully licensed restaurant that serves homecooked and mouth-watering meals throughout the day. With Assisted Living, all cleaning and house-keeping is taken care of and residents can also tuck into three delicious meals a day as part of this package. Both Independent Living and Assisted Living options are suitable for individuals or couples – all that matters is that the resident is happy and comfortable in their new home and surroundings.

Loxley Park’s picture perfect postcard setting is a huge draw for residents. You can enjoy views overlooking a private lake and take a leisurely stroll in the gorgeously tranquil gardens (if you can tear yourself away from the comfort and beauty of your own private apartment).

Peak Building Services (Belper) Ltd is an established local company operating in Heanor and the surrounding area. We recently purchased what was the old Co-op Depot on the corner of Wilmot Street and Stainsby Avenue in Heanor to set up our offices, joinery shop and storage facility. As part of our growth plans we have expanded the company and currently employ 15 people.

Having completed many successful projects, we can say that we have the experience and the expertise needed to realise the construction or renovation project that you have in mind. All our staff have spent many years in the building industry and most have been to college and are fully qualified having served an apprenticeship.

The skills we offer are groundworks, bricklaying, roofing, joinery, kitchen fitting, bathroom fitting, plumbing and electrical services.

We are a general building contractor, working closely with our customers to ensure their preferences are taken into account. We work to customer instructions, or plans but our staff would be also pleased to advise on alternative solutions that may be less costly and take less time to complete without compromising quality.

We're proud to say that we've maintained a strong belief in good workmanship and a job well done, whatever the size of the undertaking. Our whole team are aware of the responsibility they have for quality of work, safety and respect for the

Some new residents may sometimes have difficulty acclimatising, which is why Loxley Park go the extra mile to make them feel at home. There is a diverse range of activities suitable for all levels of mobility, that residents can get involved in. Residents who like to keep active can pop out for an assisted shopping trip to the local supermarket, or indulge in Sequence Dancing. For those who prefer more relaxing activities, you can enjoy a morning session of Tai Chi or enjoy arts and crafts or a performance from a local musician or band. They even provide a couple of trips a week out in to the Peak District in the community’s own mini bus.

Privacy, dignity and independence is respected, and inclusivity, incomparable customer care and promoting independence is at the crux of what Loxley Park stand for. The home is fully accessible for those with physical disabilities and the staff provide skilled domiciliary and early stages dementia, palliative, respite, convalescent and day care.

“I am passionate about making sure relatives and prospect residents make a fully informed decision about making the correct choice for their needs.“ Loxley Park has 75 apartments, which are light, airy and expansive and residents can choose a studio, one bedroom or two bedroom apartment.

The apartments are fully equipped and residents can enjoy the safety of a 24 hour on-site emergency call system.

New residents receive an efficient and responsive service and will be in safe and caring hands, as the Loxley Park team have helped numerous families to relocate themselves or loved ones. The team have significant experience in elderly care and are committed to providing exceptional service with

environment and our philosophy is “no job is too big, or to small.”

We are members of the Federation of Master Builders and are Trustmark Approved.

We're very much aware that we're building our customers' future, therefore we work closely with a local architect and have our own technical department to prepare plans ready for submission to local planning. We can also liaise with the building department to ensure all plans comply with building regulations.

Operating from Heanor we also work the surrounding region in areas such as: Chesterfield, Bakewell, Belper, Derby, Mansfield, Nottingham, Matlock, Ilkeston, Eastwood, Ashbourne, Alfreton, Ripley, Wirksworth, Uttoxeter and all surrounding areas.

All estimates and advice is free of charge and all work guaranteed.

For more information check out our website http://www.peakbuildingservices.co.uk/

a smile whilst exceeding residents’ expectations every day, every time.

Alison Elliott Client Liaison Manager said: “I am passionate about making sure relatives and prospect residents make a fully informed decision about making the correct choice for their needs.

This Person Centred Approach is the ethos of Loxley Park and Signature Senior Lifestyle, as we understand everyone is unique. We make time for residents and really listen to them because they deserve no less.”

Life at Loxley Park is a home away from home that will guarantee your peace of mind and wellbeing of your loved one. Loxley Park are holding an Open Day on 19th June from 2pm until 5pm. Call 0114 2055314 for a friendly chat or go to www.signaturecare-homes.co.uk/communities/loxley-park for more information.

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 9

10 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

The PK House Showroom opened its doors to the public in December 2014 with its fantastic showcase of kitchens We are now proud to be celebrating the addition of an extensive range of luxury quality bathrooms alongside a superb selection of tiles and accessories.

We have over 16 individual bathrooms on display plus some fully plumbed in and working.

At PK House we have something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a cutting edge bathroom or would like something a little more traditional We pride ourselves on offering a personal service to each of our customers, so they have peace of mind that they’re getting the best from their home.

Whether it’s a Kitchen or Bathroom or home improvement we offer quality products, expert design advice and first-rate professional installation, all at affordable prices. We professionally project manage each project from start to finish, from conception to completion, listening to you and keeping you informed every step of the way. Our customers are highly important to us.

We work mainly from recommendation and have built up an excellent reputation throughout the Chesterfield and surrounding area through our unrivalled customer service and attention to detail.

You won‘t be disappointed, we guarantee it!!

Making upgrades to your home not only makes it a more enjoyable place to live, but it also builds equity.

At PK House we specialise in designing custom spaces tailored to meet the needs of you and your family. Utilising quality materials, we can create a living space suited to your unique style and tastes, enhancing the value and beauty of your home We have fully trained in house designers that will

visit you and assess the space you have, we will plan out your room on our virtual software so you can get a feel of exactly what it’s going to look like plus help you get the most out of the space that you have. Whether you come to us with lots of ideas, or no ideas, we will ensure that you get the best from your project It’s all under one roof. PK House provides a seamless full installation service covering all aspects of fitting from structural, joinery, electrical, plastering, tiling and decorating needs - we can do it all. Sit back and relax whilst we take care of everything involved to create your vision we will discuss with you the best time to start the work, to ensure minimal disruption to you and your family.

We are confident in our pricing policy and offer complete peace of mind by providing the highest quality products and service at the lowest possible prices.

Just call in and see the stunning kitchen displays and bathroom displays at our Chesterfield showroom and have a chat

with a member of the team, or give us a call or drop us an email. The showroom is open Monday Saturday 0900 – 1700, with a late night opening on Wednesdays till 8pm Visit PK House today for a no obligation quote, we look forward to seeing you there!!

£5.7M INVESTMENT IN COUNTY’S ROADS More than 150 miles of the county’s roads are to be improved by Derbyshire County Council at a cost of £5.7m.

The roads, which are across the county, are to be surface dressed. Surface dressing extends the life of roads by ten years. The work will be carried out over the next few months.

Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Infrastructure, Councillor Dean Collins, said: “We’ve had to cut the amount of money we spend on road maintenance because of the reduction in the amount of money we’re getting from the Government.

“So to pay for this work we’re using our savings, sometimes known as reserves.

“This work will help to extend the life of a significant number of our roads. We recognise there are many more miles of roads that could really do with the same work but we just don’t have the money for anymore this year.”

Surface dressing is where liquid bitumen is sprayed on the road followed by stone chippings. A roller is then used to make the chippings stick to the bitumen. The road is then swept and road markings painted back on. Before the work is carried out any potholes are fixed.

The work can’t take place when it is raining or if it is too hot. As vehicles need moving off the road local residents and businesses are kept informed when work is planned. Motorists are advised to drive at 10mph just after the work is carried out so that loose stones are not flicked up.

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 11

FORMULA E – DRIVING THE FUTURE

East Midlands price increases driven by stock shortages General Election uncertainty see new instructions fall

The electric engine and drive train.

The Spark-Renault SRT-01E Formula e race car.

F

ormula e represents a vision for the future of the motor industry over the coming decades, serving as a framework for R&D around the electric vehicle, accelerating general interest in electric cars and promoting sustainability.

Operating as an 'open championship' in its second year, the series aims to give car manufacturers and constructors the opportunity to showcase their electrical energy innovations in a racing environment, designing cars to the technical specifications set out by the FIA. The Championship has three core values of Energy, Environment and Entertainment and is a fusion of engineering, technology, sport, science, design, music and entertainment - all combining to drive the change towards an electric future. "We expect this Championship to become the framework for research and development around the electric

Formula e’s headquarters at Donington Park. car, a key element for the future of our cities," said the man behind the series, Spanish businessman Alejandro Agag.

Motor racing has always driven forward developments for the car in general. The first disc brakes were introduced by Jaguar at Le Mans in the 1950s, Renault pioneered the turbo-charger in the seventies and deformable structures have become common place throughout the sport and in modern road car design. More recently sportscar racing has been looking towards making both petrol and diesel power more efficient and developing hybrid technologies using energy recovery systems. For the second season Formula e teams will be able to develop their own power-train, and it is hoped that competition will drive the concept forward.

The world’s first all-electric series has established its base at Donington in state-of-the-art headquarters built last year, including workshop facilities to house the ten teams and over 150 staff, engineers and team personnel, in a 3-year deal. All testing takes

place at Donington, although the races are in major cities around the world, underlining the series’ green credentials.

For the inaugural season, all the teams have used the Spark-Renault SRT-01E, the first car to be homologated by the FIA. Using the very latest technology, the zero emission SRT-01E has stretched the boundaries of what has been achievable in electric motorsport, whilst ensuring a balance between cost-effectiveness and sustainability, in addition to coping with the demands of racing entirely on street circuits. The cars have been built by French company Spark Racing Technology together with a consortium of some of the leading companies in motorsport. Italian constructor Dallara, who boast more than 40 years' motorsport experience, created the monocoque chassis, aerodynamically designed to aid overtaking. Made from carbon fibre and aluminium, the chassis is both super lightweight and incredibly strong and fully complies with the 2014 FIA crash tests - the same used to regulate Formula One. Providing the electric powertrain and electronics is McLaren Electronics Systems, the world leader in high-performance technology for motorsport.

Meanwhile, Williams Advanced Engineering, part of the Williams group, have supplied the batteries. For the races the cars will be restricted to power saving mode (150kw /202.5bhp) but can be temporarily increased to maximum power (180kw /243bhp) for five seconds by using the Boost Button. This allows the cars to achieve a top speed of around 140mph.

A paddle shift sequential gearbox, supplied by Hewland, with fixed ratios will help reduce costs further. Teams are not allowed to modify, or develop, their car’s aerodynamics so that all advancements will be concentrated on the power source.

Overseeing all the systems integration is the Championship's Technical Partner, Renault, a leader of electric vehicles and an expert in motorsport thanks to its Renault Sport Technologies and Renault Sport F1 programmes. Specially designed 18" treaded tyres, supplied by Michelin, are capable of providing optimum performance in both wet and dry conditions.

One of the most unique aspects of the FIA Formula e Championship is its commitment and promotion of sustainability. In addition to creating an exciting and competitive racing series, Formula E has two main objectives. The first is to become a framework for research and development around the electric vehicle. Battery life and efficiency of electric engines are two fields in which many global corporations are investing vast resources. Technological breakthroughs in these fields will take the electric car to a different level and Formula e hopes to become the testing ground for those advances.

The second is to make people believe in electric cars. One of the biggest issues electric vehicles face is image. Many people think they won't work for them, or will be too slow, but the organisers want to show what electric cars can really do, through motorsport, and to help shape perceptions of what is exciting.

Of course, Formula E is operated as a low carbon championship ensuring it reduces its CO2 emissions wherever possible, as well as encouraging its partners to do the same...not to mention all the fans who watch the races!

House prices were driven up again in April as the data showed the third consecutive monthly decline in supply with new instructions falling at their fastest rate since May 2009, according to the latest RICS UK Residential Market Survey.

While 11% more surveyors in the East Midlands saw prices rise in April, the highest reading since last summer, new instructions slipped to a net balance of -6% - the thirteenth drop in the last fourteen months in the region.

Moreover, the flow on second hand stock onto the market dropped in most parts of the country.

Alongside this, for the first time since August 2014, respondents’ reported an increase in prices in every area of the UK; the reason for this being the shift in tone in the London market where 28% more respondents saw prices in the capital rise (compared with 6% more surveyors in March who saw house prices fall).

Near term member expectations for prices and sales continue to point to relatively modest gains, but 56% of members in the East Midlands expect prices to rise over the course of the next twelve months. Meanwhile, in the lettings sector, there is no slowing in the growth of tenant demand, which is helping to underpin higher expectations for rents.

Although anecdotal evidence suggests that these trends may have in part been a result of uncertainty ahead of the election, they are also reflective of deeper underlying problems.

The downward trend in owner-occupation rates across the country is a visible sign that affordability constraints bite ever deeper, as does the squeeze on household budgets from higher rents.

Commenting on the picture in the East Midlands Chris Charlton FRICS, Savills in Nottingham said: “Surprisingly buoyant market given ‘election fever’. There have been a great number of new listings up to £1.5 million across our region. Concerns will inevitably grow post-election outlook over the next few weeks so we will continue to hold our breath.”

Simon Rubinsohn, RICS Chief Economist, said: “It is conceivable that the decisive outcome to the election could encourage a pick-up in instructions to agents and ease some of the recent upward pressure on house prices but it is doubtful that this will be substantive enough to provide anything more than temporary relief. Alongside an increased flow of second hand stock, it is absolutely critical that new government focuses on measures to boost the flow of new build.’’

Jeremy Blackburn, Head of Policy, said: “The affordability and availability of homes in the UK is now a national emergency and addressing this crisis must be the priority for the new government. The last time we were building 300,000 homes was in 1963 under Harold Macmillan’s Conservative government, which utilized both public and private building.

RICS calls for a coherent and coordinated house building strategy, across all tenures.

This should include measures that will kick-start a supply-side revolution, such as mapping brownfield, addressing planning restrictions and creating a housing observatory to assess the underlying economic and social drivers of housing and provide the impetus for solutions.

Introducing demand-side measures, such as extending ‘Right to Buy’, will not see the Conservatives deliver on their promise of 1m homes by 2020.”

12 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

Budget-loving residents in the Midlands are saving up to £400 each month by simply keeping an eye on their spending Once a stigma for being poor, being ‘on a budget’ is now saving residents in the Midlands up to £400 each month as it becomes an everyday method of money-saving.

A study by TopCashback.co.uk, released today, reveals 60 per cent of residents are now on a weekly or monthly budget with more than half (57 per cent) doing so to prevent overspending rather than to save. A further 26 per cent say they budget to feel in control of their outgoings, compared to the 10 per cent who are tightening their belts in a bid to reach a savings goal.

Budgeting tools More than a quarter (26 per cent) of residents in the Midlands say they use a budgeting tool with 46 per cent keeping a record of their incomings and outgoings on a monthly basis, whilst 20 per cent say they’re able to budget by simply checking their bank balance.

Residents who keep a record of their spending or use a budgeting app say they save between £50 and £100 each month, whilst those who keep a separate bank account for their ‘everyday spending’ save an average of £300 to £400 each month.

Budget-busting 40 per cent of residents in the Midlands do not budget, with around a third (31 per cent) overspending into an overdraft, using a credit card or taking out a loan each month. A quarter admit to overspending by £50 to £100.

For the 18 per cent who do not or only sometimes

Derbyshire Tennis Centre

stick to their budget, common ‘budget-busters’ include grocery shopping, eating out, socialising with friends and buying clothes.

Other key findings reveal: • 72 per cent of residents say budgeting is ‘easy’, whilst the other 28 per cent find it ‘challenging’ • Women overspend on eating out and buying clothes, whereas men blow their budget on socialising with friends • 70 per cent of residents would happily tell their friends, family and colleagues they’re tightening their belt in a bid to manage their money Natasha Rachel Smith, Consumer Affairs Editor for TopCashback (www.topcashback.co.uk), says: “Being on a budget was once seen as something that would hold consumers back from doing what they wanted and enjoying themselves. However, our research shows that Brits have become savvy to the idea of setting aside money each month to increase their spending power for the long term. 58 per cent of residents in the Midlands now assign budgets for different categories, which simply sets sensible guidelines to prevent overspending and landing in the red.

“When setting budgets, we would encourage consumers to look for ways to reduce their spending in each category – whether it’s using voucher codes or earning cashback. Signing up to TopCashback for instance can save shoppers around £356 a year.”

The key statistics for the East and West Midlands are displayed in the infographics below:

The Derbyshire Tennis Centre is the go-to place for tennis enthusiasts of all levels. Based on Vincent Street in Normanton, Derby, the centre is gearing up for summer as it hits one of its busiest periods of the year.

Offering a diverse range of both indoor and outdoor courts, The Derbyshire Tennis Centre makes playing in all seasons a dream.

Rob Hawkins said: “We’re busy all year round, but with Wimbledon around the corner, more courts are booked out as young and old alike channel their inner Andy Murray. Unlike Wimbledon, the weather doesn’t affect play, as we have a range of excellent indoor courts so you can practise your back-hand.”

The outdoor courts offer floodlights, so you can play into dark evenings if you can’t tear yourself away from all the tennis fun you’ll be having. It doesn’t matter if you’re a complete novice. You’ll be in the safe hands of a licensed/registered Coach who will get to know your style and work with you to improve your game. These comprehensive coaching lessons are available for all ages, so it is never too late to brush up on a hobby or to buy a pocket-friendly membership for a loved one. There is a vast coaching programme for children all year round; starting from age 4 years, they can enjoy tennis in a flexible and affordable way.

To find out more about the Derbyshire Tennis Centre, please call 01332 273770 now or email derbytennis@hotmail.co.uk. For more information, check out the website www.derbyshiretenniscentre.co.uk.

UNIVERSITY TAKES OVER EMPTY OFFICE BLOCK

The University of Derby has signed a lease to use one of Derby’s most striking office complexes, One Friar Gate Square. It is difficult to miss the distinctive copper-clad building when leaving the city on the west side, but two years after completion, the site still remained empty.

Developer Lowbridge built the 32,000 sq ft block with the aid of support from Derby City Council’s Regeneration Fund and it had been hoped that around 700 jobs could be created. However, with plenty of other vacant office space around the city, there was little commercial interest in the development.

The University of Derby expressed an interest in taking over the whole building and Turley, the agent acting for the developer, applied to Derby City Council to change the of use of the building to that of an academic facility. It then became a race for the council to approve the change leaving the University enough

time to prepare the site for the forthcoming academic year.

Now the University are to move their Department of Law and Criminology, remained the Derby School of Law, into the complex.

“This strategic move will enable us to embed ourselves even more firmly in the city and the University quarter,” said Hari Punchihewa, Deputy Chief Executive and Finance Director at the University of Derby. “This lease is not only fantastic news for our students, staff and academics but also for the city.”

The University are to lease the whole of the six-storey site and the facility will help to maintain its status as a leading centre of expertise in the field of law and criminality. The site will be adapted to include well equipped teaching rooms and lecture theatres, an open-plan specialist law library together with Magistrates and Family court rooms.

This year marks the 20th anniversary since the first cohort of law students graduated from

the University of Derby. Malcolm Todd, Dean of College of Law, Humanities and Social Sciences, commented “This investment will enable us to develop Derby Law School even further and ensure that our students get the best learning facilities.

“Derby Law School has developed enormously in the past few years.

Having invested £1.5 million in our law offer, we now house some of the country’s most advanced facilities, including crime labs, interviewing suites and a crime house.

“We are ambitious about Derby Law School and we hope this lease will enable us to continue to develop our law offering. This exciting lease will ensure that the University continues to provide first class education in the heart of the city.”

The University will now be working towards having the new facility ready for use when the new academic year begins in September.

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 13

Author Q&A: Bob Hartman Bob Hartman is one of the UK’s favourite storytellers and author of the best-selling Storyteller series, as well as various highly acclaimed books for children and adults alike. He is an important voice in the religious education of young children and his book, The Lion Storyteller Bible, has been used in schools as a key learning resource. The Derbyshire Guardian caught up with Bob after he attended The Christian Storytelling Event, Cliff College Festival.

DG: How did you find the Cliff College Festival?

BH: I had a wonderful time, it is very family friendly.

The setting is stunning and there was a terrific response to the stories I told.

DG: Religion is obviously a key theme in your work.

How has your faith or religious beliefs shaped your work?

BH: My faith has everything to do with my work. Most of my books are retellings of Bible stories, written in a way that children of today can understand and enjoy and appreciate.

DG: What is your latest book about?

BH: It is a retelling of the parables of Jesus. They were an integral part of his teaching, so I thought it would be helpful to retell them for a new generation.

DG: You’re obviously a very visual story teller; how has this come to be?

BH: I was a minister in a church before I became a full-time storyteller, so, much of what I have learned about telling stories comes, first of all, from my preaching. The stories are amazing and deserve to be retold with all the passion and creativity that we can muster.

DG: Would you write in any other genre?

BH: I would. I have written collections of folk tales, and original stories, and have just finished a novel for children that is very much just for fun.

DG: Which authors do you admire?

BH: C.S. Lewis, David Almond and Madeleine

D'Engle are just a few to name.

DG: What inspires you to write?

BH: Mostly the desire to pass God's story on to the next generation. And also because I love doing it!

DG: What would you recommend to new authors starting out?

BH: Read and read and read. Expose yourself to the work of people who know what they are doing. And then just keep writing. Write regularly, not only when you are inspired. Show your work to people whose opinion you respect. And don't give up. It's easy to be put off by rejection, but I know very few writers whose work was accepted right away.

2015 sees the release of a number of books from Bob, including Telling the Gospel: 70 Stories about Jesus to read out loud and Telling the Bible: 100 stories to read out loud for adults and The Lion Storyteller Book of Parables and Bible Baddies for children.

To find out more about Bob and his books, check out http://www.lionhudson.com/author_display. asp?SF1=sort_name&ST1=HARTMANBOB

14 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

Whats On www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk

Honley Agricultural Show – Saturday 13h June 2015 The annual agricultural delight that is Honley Show is fast approaching with the next show taking place on Saturday June 13th. In addition to the well represented animal and countryside and crafts categories there is a whole bundle of additional entertainment to delight and enthral.

New for 2015 in the Main Ring Inch Perfect Trials – Motorcycle Display Team skilled riders, spectacular stunts, crowd participation – a guaranteed thrill in the main ring at 10.30 and 2.30.

Other main ring attractions include a birds of prey display, the Tractor Parade and a welcome return of the Beagles and Hounds Other attractions As well as the traditional brass bands, donkey rides and Punch and Judy there’s the ever popular agility displays from Springers Dog Club which in celebration of its 20th anniversary will be providing special goody bags and treats for your dogs.

Plus a whole raft of activities to keep the kids

occupied, when they’re not busy animal gazing, from climbing walls, bungee trampolines and quadbikes for the energetic to the more relaxing roundabouts and face painting The Animals and Handicrafts The focal point of the show is, as ever, the thousands of exhibits across classes including horses, cattle, goats, sheep, pigs, dogs, rabbits, poultry, mice, cavies, eggs and handicrafts plus hundreds of trade and craft stalls.

Ticket prices Adult £9, Child £4. Before the dayAdult £7, Child £3 – available in local shops in Honley & Holmfirth – full list on website Email : info@honleyshow.co.uk Tel 01484661072, Honley Showground Farnley Tyas, Huddersfield, HD4 6UW www.honleyshow.co.uk https://www.facebook.com/honleyshow Twitter: @ honleyshow Information re Honley Show Honley Show is one of the most prestigious, well attended and well respected rural shows in the county. Traditional but always surprising there’s something new every year to help make it a great day out for kids and adults alike.

Honley Show is now in its 93rd year. The Show's Farnley Tyas showground remains one of the region's best venues to showcase a stunning range of activities, agricultural events, stands and displays.

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 15

The Lost City Ever wanted to be a real life Indiana Jones? Here's your chance!

The Lost City is a fun, interactive adventure for everyone and challenges you to 'putt' your skills to the test in our Inca-themed rainforest.

Challenge your team to play amid a thunder and lightning storm on our "carpeted" greens, avoid the crush of our venomous 23 foot animatronic snake, risk the jaws of our snap happy alligator, and witness talking idols and rumbling walls. Both courses have been designed to be wheelchair user

friendly so all adventurers can play! Plus, if you can keep a steady nerve to the end and satisfy our Sacred Skull or Temple God - much Inca Gold will come your way......

Perfect for budding explorers and adventurers of all ages, The Lost City is situated in the Cornerhouse and houses two separate 18 hole indoor adventure golf courses.

It’s the ideal location for nights out with friends, family time, date nights, birthday parties, corporate events and team building!

After you’ve completed your rainforest experience, enjoy a drink in our tiki bar overlooking the courses or party in our VIP area.

Whatever your age, The Lost City really does have something for everyone!

For more information and all the latest news and offers visit www.lostcityadventuregolf.com, like www.facebook.com/lostcitynotts or follow @lostcitynotts on Twitter.

BILLY PEARCE

NOT TO BE MISSED! British comedy award winner Billy Pearce is back as part of his latest National tour in a night of adult comedy. Come and have a LAFF! GUARANTEED!

Saturday 30 May Box Office 01246 345 222 chesterfieldtheatres.co.uk

16 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

THE HIGHWAYMAN BEEFEATER REOPENS ITS DOORS WITH A BRAND NEW LOOK Derbyshire restaurant welcomes guests with a designer interior and mouthwatering menu Steak lovers of Derbyshire can rejoice now The Highwayman Beefeater has reopened its doors, following some exciting changes.

The restaurant has undergone a total makeover with a fresh look inside and out creating a light, welcoming environment. With booth seating for large groups, a comfortable bar area and a modern design, the restaurant is the ultimate in comfort and style.

The updated menu is packed full of favourites for the whole family, including succulent steaks, a mouth-watering burger range and fresh salads. You will also find plenty of classics including BeerBattered Cod & Chips, Smothered Chicken and the Beefeater Mixed Grill, each prepared with care and presented with flare. And if these weren't enough, Beefeater is now offering unlimited skinny or triple cooked chips with selected main meals.

Despite the restaurant's new image, familiar friendly staff members remain ready to

welcome everyone through the doors, ensuring that guest’s every need is met.

Wendy Knott, General Manager of The Highwayman Beefeater said: "All these great changes make Beefeater even more inviting and we’re proud to reopen our doors. We have spent a lot of time working on the presentation of the new look to give our guests the wow factor. We are confident our guests will enjoy the changes as much as we do and friends and families can make the most of their time here. It’s still their Beefeater – but with a modern twist."

Beefeater is all about affordable quality and has great value always-on offers, catering for all manner of tastes. Steak and chips start from just £9.99, Daytime Menu dishes start from £4.99 Monday – Saturday before 6:30pm and with kid's eating free every Saturday between 12-5pm, a visit to Beefeater won't break the bank either.

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 17

18 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

Pete’s Online Patisserie

Restaurant Review

A bakery and online patisserie is launching a home delivery service as it looks to getting its luxury, desserts on tables across the country. Pete’s Online Patisserie based in Barnsley is targeting the homemarket by now expanding its offerings to individuals who appreciate delicious desserts using only the finest ingredients.

Having launched a mere few weeks ago, Pete’s Online Patisserie is already dealing with a packed order book. Steve Holmes said: “The proof is in the pudding and our Michelin trained pastry chefs work with only the best ingredients. Whether you’re a restaurant owner or cake lover, we produce home-made desserts for the discerning diner. Our personal service ensures our customers are happy every time.”

Top quality ingredients are responsibly sourced from leading suppliers which include fresh velvety cream, luxurious butter and decadent dark chocolate. Food made with precision and attention to detail makes the diverse dessert range mouth-wateringly good.

From the show-stopping Four Layer Chocolate Fudge Cake to the moreish After Eight Mint

Zizzi’s Restaurant Derby

Cheesecake, there are plenty of delectable offerings from Pete’s Online Patisserie. If you’re spoilt for choice, why not go for the bestselling Gooey Caramel Cake? You’ll be in heaven as your teeth sink into the moist and very, very sticky toffee cake with lashings of perfectly whipped caramel butter-cream.

Perhaps you have a wedding, birthday, or special event to celebrate. Imagine the brownie points you’d get if you had a scrumptious Strawberry and Champagne Cheesecake delivered for your beloved. And with free standard delivery, your gorgeous dessert is a phone-call away. All you need to do is order, put your feet up and wait as the cake makes its way to your home.

From tarts and cheesecakes to magnificent gateaux, Pete’s Online Patisserie will ensure you have them on speed-dial after trying their delicious wares.

To get restaurant quality desserts hand-made by Michelin trained chefs delivered to your door, hop onto the website www.petespatisserieonline.co.uk or call 07930 443453 now.

See Advert on Page 7

Old Hall Hotel Italian food is one of the most popular cuisines in the world, frequently appearing on Top Ten Cuisine Lists over the years. It also happens to be one of my favourite types of food, which is why I couldn’t wait to check out Zizzi on Friargate, Derby.

We had a booking for Saturday lunch-time and were promptly shown to our table with a nice window view.

The Italian inspired artwork of swirly black against cream is a pleasure to behold and the scattered cushions on the wooden pews were a nice touch.

We kicked off with Bruschetta (confit baby plum tomatoes on garlic brushed ciabatta) and Calamari (crispy squid rings with a garlic and basil aioli dip). Both were perfectly nice, although the bread to tomato ratio for the Bruschetta was a little onesided (still, too much tomato never killed anyone, right?).

I had the Spaghetti Pomodoro (pasta with buffalo mozzarella, baby plum tomatoes and basil) whilst my partner had the Rustica Piccante (pepperoni, spicy Nduja sausage, salami, roquito chillies, mushrooms, mozzarella, rocket and mascarpone on a crispy base).

Again, the pasta dish was average, nothing standout about it. It could have been a dish I had made at home (and I’m no exceptional chef).

My partner’s pizza again was nice, although the chef had seemed to be a little heavyhanded with the roquito chillies. This chilli paste was spread liberally on the pizza base and additional teaspoonsized mini mounds on the pizza too. The taste was a little overpowering and I couldn’t help but think that the pizza would have tasted better with just a few daubs of this paste.

A Derbyshire hotel is launching a brand new kitchen, new restaurant and new menu next week. The Old Hall Hotel in Hope near Castleton, nestled in the Peak District has undergone a stunning makeover following a fire that ravaged the hotel last month.

The historic building dates back to 1508 and like a phoenix rising from the ashes, The Old Hall Hotel is now back fighting fit and better than ever.

In the new restaurant, all food is home-cooked and sourced from nearby producers, ensuring local businesses are supported. From light luncheons to hearty suppers, there is something for everyone at The Old Hall Hotel.

The creative team have worked tirelessly on the new

For dessert I had the Chocolate Melt (hot, gooey chocolate pudding served with crema gelato) whilst my partner had the Chocolate, Praline and Sea Salt Torte (served with honey, sea salt and mascarpone gelato and a caramel-hazelnut snap).

This is where Zizzi redeemed itself. Both desserts were lush.

My self-saucing pudding was moist and decadent without being cloying, whilst the torte was the standout dish of the whole menu. The sweet honey and sea salt pairing was inspired and coupled with the delectably short, crisp pastry base and velvety smooth torte, makes this one of the best desserts I have ever tasted.

Overall, the meal was average.

The two standout features were the excellent customer service (they run a tight ship over there) and that scrummy, yummy dessert. Would I dine here again? Maybe. But I would definitely go back for a slice of that heavenly torte.

Diners will vote with their feet and whilst its heart might be in the right place, Zizzi has a while to go before winning any foodie awards. It may not be the best Italian I’ve ever eaten at, but this is a restaurant to keep an eye on in future as it has great potential.

Star Rating 1-10 (1: “I’d rather eat my own shoe, I hated it that much” – 10: “I’d pillage for a meal here”.)

Food: 6.

Value for money: 8 Ambience: 9 Rate or Slate? Rate (just about) Address: Zizzi Restaurant, 1617 Friar Gate, Derby DE1 1BX Tel: 01332 208297 Website: www.zizzi.co.uk/ venue/index/derby

menu that also features traditional classics such as Theakston’s Old Peculiar steak and ale pie. New additions include pan-fried trout with wilted spinach and creamy potato, and slow confit pork belly with glazed baby vegetables.

You wouldn’t be the first who didn’t want to leave this quaint, country pub with a big heart, and diners have the option of an overnight stay in one of the 5 rooms that includes fabulous four poster suites.

When you walk into The Old Hall Hotel, it is like seeing family where a warm welcome is guaranteed.

Call 01433 620 160 now to make a booking and indulge in the new menu that will put a spring in your step and a big grin on your face.

MARKHAM ARMS

CHESTERFIELD

THE RECENTLY REFURBISHED MARKHAM ARMS HAS LOTS TO OFFER YOU AND YOUR FAMILY: Free Function room hire Weekly entertainment children’s play area bingo Darts, Dominos, Pool & Crib teams

Come along to our 1st birthday party saturday 23rd may 4pm till late. We look forward to seeing you there!

For More information please call: 01246 622132

by Ria Amber Tesia - Food Correspondent

Markham Arms, Dorset Drive, Brimington, Derbyshire S431DN

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 19

20 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

Kasabian and Calvin Harris to headline V Festival 2015 in Stafford Kasabian and Calvin Harris will headline the 20th V Festival near Stafford on August 22 and 23 The Leicester indie rockers will be making their second headline appearance at the event held simultaneously at Weston Park, Staffordshire and Hylands Park in Chelmsford, Essex.

The band played a storming headlining set at last year’s Glastonbury Festival.

V Festival veteran and Scottish DJ Harris headlines the festival for the first time having made five past appearances.

Harris will perform at the Weston Park site on Saturday August 22, while Kasabian close the festival on Sunday, August 23.

Other acts performing across the weekend include Grammy and Brit award winning artist Sam Smith, Welsh chart toppers Stereophonics, The Script, Ellie Goulding, Olly Murs, Paloma Faith and Tom Jones.

Tickets are on sale at 9am on Friday March 6 from www.vfestival.com.

Early bird ticket sales open for Virgin Media customers on Wednesday March 4 at 10am.

PIKEHALL HARNESS RACES Sunday 14th June |First Race 2pm Under BHRC Rules

Pikehall is in the Derbyshire Peak District on the A5012 between the A6 at Cromford and the A515 Ashbourne Buxton Road. Meeting well signposted.

• Licensed bar • Refreshments • Bookmakers • Childrens Attractions Entrance £10 per person (children under 14 free) Free Car Parking Tel/Fax: 01335 390412 E: info@pikehallharnessracing.co.uk W: www.pikehallharnessracing.co.uk

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 21

22 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

Weddings www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk

JEWELLERY AUCTIONS AT FELLOWS ANTIQUE & MODERN JEWELLERY: 18TH JUNE AT 11AM No matter what your style, finding that perfect piece of jewellery isn’t hard at Fellows Auctioneers.

Hosting auctions ranging from fortnightly jewellery sales to the glittering monthly Antique & Modern Jewellery auctions, Fellows cater for a wide range of styles and budgets.

As wedding season approaches, look no further than Fellows for beautiful antique, vintage and modern jewels which are perfect for the big day.

Fellows auctions are a fantastic first port of call and a great way to find high quality and one-off pieces which cannot be found on the high street – whether you’re looking for a subtle diamond stone piece or a dazzling designer showstopper.

The Fellows Antique and Modern Jewellery sales are held monthly and show off the most alluring jewels, with many lots featuring designer and period pieces. The next auction taking place on the 16th July is perfect to find something that is bound to set apart your wedding day ensemble.

For the vintage bride, plenty of trinkets can be found at Fellows’ Vintage Jewellery & Accessories sale.

This sale takes place 8 times a year and is packed with designer pieces ranging from under £100.

If watches are more your thing, “The Watch Sale” held monthly pulls together the very best in vintage and modern wristwatches and pocket watches, regularly featuring Breitling, Cartier and Rolex timepieces.

Based at the heart of the Jewellery Quarter, the Fellows team of jewellery specialists are on hand to give you free and impartial advice. With many of Fellows’ diamonds accompanied by independent grading reports and fully qualified gemmologists on hand to answer all of your questions the experience is made a little less daunting. Whether you are a new bidder, or a Fellows regular, we are sure that you will be able to find a piece to update your jewellery box!

To participate in the Antique & Modern Jewellery auction at Fellows on the 18th June, visit www. fellows.co.uk to view upcoming auctions and catalogues, or call the Jewellery department on 0121 212 6303.

The Manners Arms, nestled in the picturesque village of Knipton, just a stone’s throw from the Belvoir Estate, is proud to announce the launch of the new Manners Arms Steak & Grill, with the aim of being the premier grill room in the Vale of Belvoir.

The new lava rock grill combined with our signature basting ensures a grilled taste like no other. Our butchers deliver only the finest quality British locally sourced beef. Our chefs are working with the butchers to ensure the maturation of all beef which is hung for up to seven days, before being aged for varying periods of up to thirty-five days.

Our locally sourced steaks are complimented with a choice of à la carte or pasta dishes all served in the sumptuous bar or country restaurant. This can all be washed down with a selection from our extensive wine list or bar featuring real ales, craft beer and selection of whiskeys sourced from around the world where knowledgeable staff can help you choose the perfect drink to compliment your dining experience.

The Manners Arms Steak & Grill Launches on 2nd July 2015. Call 01476 879222 or visit mannersarms. com/eat to make a booking.

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 23

24 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

Our Top OurRestaurant Top Restaurant & & Cafe Reviews Cafe reviews by tripadvisor

When it comes to a wide range of interesting places to eat out, then Derby has quite a lot to boast about these days.

In fact according to the TasteDerby website, the city is constantly scaling new heights for offering outstanding food & drink hospitality.

This is evidenced by the city’s annual Food And Drink Awards Ceremony where last year saw over 1,400 nominations which were then narrowed down to just 21 finalists across nine categories.

The prestigious event recognises Derby’s finest restaurants, pubs, bars and cafes, in categories including Best Newcomer, Best Out of Town, and the coveted Restaurant of the Year.

At the most recent event, Marketing Derby’s John Forkin praised the vibrance of the restaurant sector in the region.

He said: "The food and drink sector in Derby goes from strength to strength, reflected in the fact that, of the 21 finalists, excluding the Best Customer Service Award, only three were trading when we launched the Derby Food and Drink Awards five years ago."

In short Derby and the surrounding area offers a diverse array of restaurants to suit every possible taste and budget and the range of different establishments and types of cuisine is increasing all the time.

There is everything from fine-dining establishments, traditional pub menus, established restaurant chains and many individual establishments where the focus is on the quality of the food served and the experience of their guests.

Whether it is traditional fish and chips, British, American, Continental, Indian, Chinese, Italian or more then Derby has it all.

There is also a range of venues from traditional country pubs, traditional tea rooms, high-end establishments, trendy city bars and small familyrun businesses, to name but a few.

There has never been a better time to enjoy Derby’s diverse restaurant culture and it looks like things are going to only get better as news spreads that this is a great area for eating out.

The Pudding Pantry

One large scone, homemade jam and clotted cream

Mini scones, jam and cream, four petit four

Mini scones, jam and cream, four petit four and four sandwiches

as above but with a glass of chilled bubbly Prosecco

An East Midlands bakery is whetting appetites in Nottingham and beyond through a selection of scrumptious afternoon tea offerings. The Pudding Pantry located on Trinity Square in the heart of Nottingham specialises in home baked cakes, puddings, loose leaf teas and stunning artisan coffee alongside a tempting savoury breakfast and lunch menu.

The Pudding Pantry sets itself apart from the competition by offering delicious afternoon tea that doesn’t cost the earth. With prices starting from just £3.95, there is something for everyone, from the frugal foodie to the stressed out student. There are four main afternoon teas showcased at The Pudding Pantry. The Cream Tea is the perfect pickme-up as you munch on a large fluffy scone, old English homemade jam and velvety clotted cream.

With the Sweet Tea option, you have the enviable experience of sinking your teeth into a selection of pretty petit fours (which are far from petit)! The Classic Tea option will guarantee full tummies and smiles all round as you and your party (or just you if you’re not in the mood for sharing) tuck into mini scones, jam and cream, four petits fours and four filling sandwiches. The High Tea is served with

a glass of chilled Prosecco, perfect for sipping leisurely as you people-watch from the beautiful floor-to-ceiling windows inside the expansive space of The Pudding Pantry. All the afternoon teas are served with a selection of loose leaf teas too.

The Pudding Pantry would hate to disappoint and 24 hours’ notice for an afternoon tea booking is therefore essential. The only dilemma you’ll face (apart from the painstaking decision of which afternoon tea you’ll choose) is what goes first on the scone; jam or cream?

The Pudding Pantry is passionate about serving good food that is mouth-watering and moreish at all times of the day. From a breakfast of homemade beans on sourdough toast, to a pancake stack brunch, with light bites and luncheons available throughout the day, The Pudding Pantry is the ideal meet-up place or hangout space for you to just be and take a breather.

As if you needed another reason, The Pudding Pantry is celebrating summer by offering patrons a 10% discount Monday to Friday when The Derbyshire Guardian is quoted. What are you waiting for?

Call 0115 950 4660 now to make a booking and get down to The Pudding Pantry for an indulgent treat that will have you begging for more.

“Fantastic”

“Afternoon tea!!!”

Reviewed 22 May 2015

“Great Coffee”

Reviewed 29 April 2015

“Lovely independent cafe”

Reviewed 15 May 2015

10% OFF MONDAY - FRIDAY | JUST QUOTE ‘DG29’

Please book 24 hours in advance on 0115 950 4660 or info@thepuddingpantry.co.uk expires December 2015, Terms and Conditions apply please see website

“Tasty cake, great new menu” Reviewed 6 May 2015

Reviewed 10 May 2015

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 25

Healthy Living www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk

CoLaz Advanced Beauty Specialists

A salon and beauty specialist has launched in the Midlands to serve the Derby community with its innovative treatments and revolutionary therapies.

CoLaz Advanced Beauty Specialists opened its doors on Peartree Road, Normanton earlier this month to offer a host of treatments from laser hair removal to relaxing massages and inch loss programs.

With a diverse range of services all available under one roof, CoLaz is your one-stop shop

to beautifying and relaxation therapies. Four treatment rooms designed by a specialist Londonbased interior designer ensure you are in a stylishly luxurious environment. The water feature and state of the art sound system augments the beautiful décor and it’s easy to melt away as you enjoy the invigorating effects of an aromatherapy massage.

With pocket-friendly prices to boot, £35 is a small price to pay for a de-stressing Swedish massage that will recharge your batteries as you feel ready to take on the world again. If holidays are on your mind, check out CoLaz’s hair removal treatments. Bid adieu to waxing and have a bon voyage on your holiday by checking out their laser treatments, which start from just £15 and include a free consultation and patch

Your Independent Cambridge Consultant

Mandy Smith

Multi Award Winning Consultant Contact me for more information M: 079606 45505 E: mandysmith.cwp@gmail.com F: Cambridge Weight Plan Mandy Smith W: cambridgeweightplan.co.uk/MandySmith One to One Appointments Derby City Centre Location

test.

Advanced electrolysis procedures and chemical peels mean blemishes and scarred skin can be permanently removed to boost confidence.

Manroop Ahitan is not just a pretty face – she is also co-founder of the CoLaz operation. Having founded CoLaz over 10 years ago with her husband Surinder Ahitan, Derby is the dynamic couple’s sixth franchise opening in the UK. Empire building is hard work and Manroop puts this down to having a dedicated, trustworthy team that go the extra mile.

Manroop said: “The Derby beauty clinic has four members of staff with a view to expansion over the coming weeks. It is headed up by Kam, whom I have known for a number of years and who also has extensive experience in the beauty sector. I only have the

crème de la crème of expertise as I believe CoLaz customers deserve only the best.”

The beauty clinic is open 7 days a week from 10am – 8pm on weekdays and 10am – 6pm at the weekends. These longer opening

times reflect the considerate and thoughtful nature of CoLaz, who really make time for your needs.

With a range of discounts on beauty packages including a free 10 minute session on the critically acclaimed Power Plate, now is

the time to give your body the TLC it deserves. What are you waiting for? For more information call CoLaz now on 01332 340619 to speak with a friendly member of staff.

26 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

RNIB launches Online Today to get people with sensory loss online Local volunteers will help deliver training to nearly 9,000 people with sight or hearing loss in the East Midlands A new project will provide everyday digital skills to nearly 9,000 people with sight or hearing loss or both in the East Midlands.

The scheme will help people who have sensory loss overcome the barriers they often face when it comes to getting online and benefiting from technology.

The UK-wide Online Today project, which is funded by a £5.8million Big Lottery Fund grant, will be delivered by leading sight loss charity RNIB (Royal National Institute of Blind People) with the support of 37 delivery partners including Action for Blind People, Action on Hearing Loss,

Guide Dogs and Sense.

Internet use in the UK has significantly increased over recent years with 76% of adults accessing the internet every day in 2014, compared to just 38% in 2006. Millions of us rely on the internet for everyday tasks such as shopping, banking and staying in touch with friends and family.

However, getting online and using technology can present many challenges for someone who is blind, partially sighted or has hearing loss.

Through a series of workshops, surgeries, one-to-one sessions and even home visits, Online

Today will deliver training and advice on how to browse the internet and use smartphones, tablets and computers. Up to 100 volunteers in the East Midlands will help deliver the training.

One of Britain’s most successful Paralympians Kelly Gallagher, who has been partially sighted since birth, is supporting the Online Today project. She said: “I can't imagine how different my life would be if it wasn't for technology and the internet. I haven’t any fears when it comes to racing down a ski slope, but without a smartphone I'd struggle to get on the right bus or train on my own or stay in touch with friends and family whilst I'm travelling.

“Nobody should miss out on all the great benefits that being online can offer just because they have a disability and that's why I'm supporting Online Today and encouraging people with sensory loss to find out how it can help them get online in no time.”

Neil Heslop, Managing Director of RNIB Solutions, said: “Technology has changed the

way we live our lives, from how we communicate and socialise to the way we look for jobs and pay our bills. For people who have hearing or sight loss, being able to get online can make a huge difference to being able to live independently but it can be quite daunting if you don’t know where to start.

“Online Today will deliver the skills, training and confidence that will make a huge difference to so many people’s lives and will make sure they’re not being excluded from today’s digital world.”

There are a number of Online Today events currently being planned in the East Midlands to deliver digital skills training to people with sensory loss.

Online Today is open to anyone who has sight or hearing loss.

Anyone who would like to find out more about how Online Today may be able to help them, or a friend or relative, or would like to find out about volunteering, can call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or email onlinetoday@rnib.org.uk

Café Review Derby Museum Cafe

A good coffee is always guaranteed to hit the right buttons, which is why I found myself taken with the Derby Museum Café on The Strand in the first ten seconds of entering the room. Located in the heart of the city, this particular café has oodles of charm and boasts a decent selection of coffee, tea, cake and biscuits.

Set on the ground floor past reception, you’d be mistaken in thinking you’re entering an exhibition area as your eyes settle on various glass cabinets showcasing historical ceramic artefacts.

Yet you are quickly reminded that coffee is the big draw, because the first thing that hits you when you enter the white space reminiscent of a light and airy loft is the wonderful aroma of coffee.

It’s an expansive space yet it feels cosy, and the surrounding ornaments on display make for a unique and innovative setting. With tables dotted throughout, tourists, coffee lovers and shoppers can make this the perfect pit-stop for much deserved time out. With jams, pickles and drizzling oils for sale near the front, this pantryesque ambience makes the experience of being in this café all the more quaint.

I had a generously sized medium Flat White that came with a lovely gold-covered chocolate coin. The Flat White is a full-bodied coffee, which has earthy undertones and a slightly caramelised after-taste, which is moreish and mouth-watering in equal measure.

Derby Museum Café only serve home-made cake and biscuits, and I was lucky to eat a wodge of their Lemon Drizzle Cake which was moist and dense without being cloying. The lemon flavour was sweet and fragrant,

accentuated by beautifully subtle citrus essence in the icing and punctuated throughout the golden sponge. It was heaven on a plate and one that I cannot wait to eat again.

The baristas are the friendliest I have ever encountered in my life. Run by the dynamic team of Jackie Keeling and Sally Jane Thompson who are hostesses extraordinaire, they ensure quick, efficient service with a million dollar smile to boot. They will proffer suggestions and recommend cake and nibbles that they think you may like. Rest assured this is not a hard sell – these guys really care that you enjoy your beverage and cake.

And when you do eventually leave, it’s like bidding goodbye to family, as they endear themselves with their genuine affection guaranteeing your return within the week.

I’ve been to hundreds of cafés around the country – and the Derby Museum Café is a one of the best coffee houses in the UK. It should be a national treasure. (I feel like starting a petition, seriously.)

Star Rating 1-10 (1: “I hate it, I’d rather eat my own shoe” to 10: “I’d pillage for a meal here”.)

Coffee: 10 Value for money: 9 Ambience: 10 Rate or Slate? Rate Address: The Strand, Derby DE1 1BS. Tel: 01332 641901

by Ria Amber Tesia - Food Correspondent

Education

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 27

Webs Training

www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk

Learning while earning could boost East Midlands productivity

The CBI* predicts that by 2022 50% of jobs will require skills like foundation degrees, professional diplomas or higher, yet has found that many workers find it hard to progress from entry level positions.

It’s prompted a call for greater access to higher “education routes that allow people to earn and learn” at the same time, in order to support career progression and boost UK business productivity.

In the East Midlands, more than one in seven people have 2 A Levels or the equivalent, but no degree. ** Dr Philip Hallam, CEO of RDI - the UK’s leading provider of UK university qualifications by distance learning – believes that one of the best ways East Midlands businesses can help, is to encourage workers to explore online higher education opportunities.

He said: “Businesses want the best for their employees but it can be daunting, particularly for SMEs, to be set a challenge of improving access to education and skills training.

“Some companies may be able to offer bespoke programmes but for many, this isn’t realistic.

Helping staff to find out more about online learning options - from HNDs and Advanced Diplomas to UK university degrees and MBAs – is.”

Studying for higher education qualifications online can help individuals upskill without having to step off the career ladder, and immediately implement those skills in a practical workplace environment – benefiting both employee and employer.

As part of ‘Learning at Work Week’, RDI is encouraging East Midlands businesses to take up the ‘three fact challenge’ and promote three facts about online learning to workers interested in gaining additional qualifications.

1) Online distance learners are eligible for student finance from the Student Loans Company.

Affordability is an important benefit, as studying online for an HE qualification with a distance learning provider is a lot less expensive than traditional faceto-face courses. But what many don’t know is that as well as courses being less expensive, distance learners can also be entitled to student loans (subject to all the usual eligibility criteria.)

2) Work experience often counts towards course eligibility. To enrol on any online higher education course there will be eligibility requirements and assessment. But in many instances, workplace experience – particularly for business qualifications – is taken into account. This often means people are more eligible than they may at first think.

3) Studying online for a higher education qualification is a flexible way to balance study, work and home life. Online learning courses enable individual to study in a way which suits their life and at their own pace. With course materials often available in multidevice formats – students can even learn on their lunch hour or during their daily commute to work.

Dr Philip Hallam, said: “Around 90% of RDI students work while studying and over half of them tell us that their primary motivation is career progression – for many it is the best route to study for the skills they need to advance without having to take a career break. By finding out more about online learning and helping employees access information, businesses can really make a big difference in their own future.”

University of Derby student shortlisted for prestigious annual Design Award University of Derby student, Cheyanne Black, has been shortlisted by Penguin Random House UK for its prestigious annual Design Award. The 2015 Penguin Random House Design Award, which comprises the Adult Fiction Cover Award, Adult Non Fiction Cover Award and the Children’s Cover Award, received more than 1,200 entries from aspiring designers across the UK. Cheyanne, 35, who originally hails from Granville, Ohio, is one of just 10 students from across the UK including Cardiff, London, Blackpool and internationally the USA who made the Children’s Cover Award shortlist. Her place on the shortlist puts her in the running to win a £1,000 cash prize and a design placement with the UK’s biggest book publisher.

Cheyanne took on the challenge of designing Nina Bawden’s Carrie’s War and will be judged by illustrator Cathy Cassidy; writer and illustrator Ed Vere and Penguin Random House UK’s Managing Director for Children’s Francesca Dow and Art Director Anna Billson.

Now in its ninth year, the Design Award offers students on an Art or Design course at HND or degree level exposure to and guidance from some of the publishing industry’s leading lights with the challenge to design a cover for a selected adult fiction, adult non-fiction or children’s book.

Penguin Random House Art Directors give shortlisted entrants feedback and further art direction on their cover submissions and invite them to resubmit their work by May 13th, taking all the comments on board, before the final round of judging.

Cheyanne said, of her nomination “I entered the competition, as it is very important to me as a graphic designer and personally as an avid book reader. I’m proud to have the opportunity to be shortlisted on an award so honourable and worldrenowned. Being shortlisted by Penguin is a sign of quality and creativity from a company that has an outstanding reputation in both these aspects and is therefore very affirming and assuring to me as a soon-to-be graduate. It is my hope that such a commendation will help me in attaining my first industry position after graduation.”

Anna Billson, Art Director, Penguin Random House UK Children’s, leads a team of over 40 designers which includes some previous finalists for the Design Award. She says “What I look for as a judge in this Award is much the same as what I look for whilst working with my team of talented designers every day. It is about having a great eye for design and using it effectively to connect readers with the stories and experiences that are waiting for them beyond the cover. Every year I am always excited when I see that genuine talent shine through.”

Tom Weldon, CEO, Penguin Random House UK, says “Penguin Random House has created thousands of iconic book covers and we pride ourselves in being a home for the best creative talent in our industry. Through the Penguin Random House Design Award we are able to engage with a new generation of designers who, we hope, will join us in inspiring and entertaining readers everywhere, both now and in the future.”

Webs furniture training Webs Training Limited has been one of the regions leading training providers delivering quality furniture manufacturing training for nearly 50 years. As a quality provider of apprenticeship and work based training, we work with local, regional and national employers to secure apprenticeship opportunities for young people aged 16-23. As employees, apprentices earn a wage from day one and work along-side experienced staff to gain job specific skills.

With our new purpose built, state of the art workshops and classrooms and dedicated staff, we aim to support our learners to fulfil their full potential.

All apprentices are funded by the Skills Funding Agency (SFA) and there is no charge to the apprentice for the course.

For employers with up to 1000 employees, and looking to recruit a 16-23 year old, you may qualify for a Government grant of £1500* (*conditions apply).

For young people aged 16-18 who are not quite ready to go into an apprenticeship, we offer the Ambitions Study Programme which will help to prepare young people for the world of work.

The programme will provide learners with an opportunity to develop work related skills in the furniture industry, whilst working towards nationally recognised qualifications. The course runs over 3 days a week for 30 weeks and is supported by the Education Funding Agency (EFA)

WEBS Training Ltd The Poplars Wollaton Rd Beeston Nottingham. NG9 2PD Email: info@webstraining.com Telephone: 0115 9677771 Fax: 0115 9677772

Simon Martin Apprentice Cabinet Maker.

Teenager Simon Martin is following in a family tradition as he gets to grips with his NVQ Level 2 course in cabinet making.

Simon’s dad is a fully qualified cabinet maker and the 18-year-old apprentice wants to learn the skills and techniques necessary to become just as good.

Father and son both work for Edsons in Nottingham, a family-owned business specialising in bespoke joinery that has been trading continuously since 1885.

According to the company website “All Edsons staff are time-served craftsmen with many years experience of producing high quality joinery and cabinetwork.”

Simon, from Kimberley, Nottinghamshire, said the high standards was something he was told he needed to produce from day one.

He said: “There is absolutely no getting away with producing sub-standard work here at all because it simply won’t be tolerated.

“Even the slightest thing wrong and the work comes back to you with an explanation as to why it was not suitable and what needs to be done to put it right.”

Simon started working for Edsons in July last year as an apprentice cabinet maker and has been working on his NVQ at Web’s Training since September, where he spends every Monday learning new skills or polishing up existing ones.

He always knew he wanted to work with his hands and was making items out of wood for his family and friends since he was a boy.

Simon added: “We have a workshop in our garage and I would spend as much time there as I could.

“I have always been practical and I would make things such as cat boxes and dog houses just for the pure enjoyment I would get from it.”

Now he gets paid for what he enjoys doing and loves the fact that there is such a huge emphasis on getting things as perfect as they can be.

He said: “The furniture we produce here is really high quality and it is great to be involved in making items which look so great.

“I get a great deal of pleasure in getting things precisely right and if I get to be as good as my dad one day then I will be very happy indeed.”

At Webs Training Simon gets on well with the fellow apprentices and staff and his first project is to make a box to hold watches. This project will test the apprentices’ skills in design and their ability to turn the designs into a finished product which meets the required specifications and standards.

Simon said the training he received at Webs was “good and varied” and said the instructors were always willing to help.

When he is not working he enjoys cycling and takes part in events where participants have to cover 100 miles in just one day.

28 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

Kombat Kinetics

www.kombatkinetics.com For more information call: 07970 684550 or visit us at: Black Belt Leadership Academy 14 - 16 Werburgh St, Derby, DE22 3QG (Opposite Becket Primary School)

26 YEARS EXPERIENCE

An award-winning martial arts instructor in Derby is urging people to learn martial arts which will keep them safe, fit and also provide hours of enjoyment too.

Mohammed Afzal, known as Master Afzal in the martial arts industry, is the 12 times British Champion who runs Derby’s premier martial arts academy on Werburgh Street. He was named Top Instructor by the Martial Arts Illustrated magazine in 2014 and has practised karate, W.A.K.O kickboxing, judo and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. He certainly knows how to keep safe and fit, which is why he is best placed to offer advice and tips on martial arts and safekeeping.

Afzal said: “Mixed Martial Arts Fitness is the fastest growing sport in the world. It is also now being used by boxing gyms, fitness centres and Olympic

athletes to maximise their full potential. If you’re thinking of getting fit over the summer, now is the perfect time to join. We know that you’ll have so much fun, you’ll keep at it and go the distance!”

Afzal took up martial arts in 1988, starting with karate and moving onto kick boxing. Seeking a further challenge, he soon mastered tae kwondo before going on to win at several English, British and European championships.

He has spent most of the last 26 years teaching the discipline he loves. He founded martial arts schools in Yorkshire and the Midlands before deciding to open a full-time academy in his beloved home-city of Derby.

Kombat Kinetics offers classes throughout the week for all ages, providing fitness programmes and a character development programme for young children, which sets out to teach them respect, discipline, life skills and give them confidence.

There is something at Kombat Kinetics for all the family, so what are you waiting for?

For more information on how Kombat Kinetics can help you kickstart your fitness and safety regime, call 07970 684550 now or check out www.kombatkinetics.com

The Little Dragons Programme for 4-7 year olds The Little Dragons Programme is a detailed curriculum that focuses on improving pre-school age childrens basic motor and listening skills.

These skills will help them enter society with a more confident & enthusiastic outlook.

They will become better students at school, better listeners at home and more ambitious towards the future.

We believe the time between the ages 4-7 are the most important years of a childs development.

Our programme will enhance positive development in a fun & motivating way.

• FREE Orientation • FREE 1st Lesson • FREE Uniform • FREE Little Dragons Colouring

“We spark the light in you, that you, in your own way can illuminate”

S.Anselm’s College is now accepting registrations for September 2015

For: • An extensive curriculum taught in small classes.

• Accessible minibus travel in all directions.

• Outstanding sport, drama, art and music facilities.

• A creative and spacious environment where children are allowed to develop at their own pace.

• A wide-ranging breadth of extracurricular opportunities including the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme.

• A highly competitive fee structure.

• The only independent GCSE education in the local area.

... and for your child’s chance to have a life-changing education in the heart of the Peak District call S.Anselm’s on 01629 812734 to register your interest or come to see what we can offer your child’s future.

S. Anselm’s, Stanedge Road, Bakewell, DE45 1DP

01629 812734 headmaster@anselms.co.uk

www.sanselms.co.uk

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 29

to become ‘thriving hub Alice Cook Designs Derby of visual art’ during 2015 final degree shows

Creative final-year students at the University of Derby will be showcasing their predictions for future trends in art, design, music, textiles and photography in the 2015 final degree shows starting next week.

A fashion forward children’s wear designer is expanding her offerings to fun accessories and toys to cater for growing demand of her striking creations.

Alice Cook is the fabulous and eponymous founder of Alice Cook Designs in Derby who specialises in gorgeous unisex clothing for newborns up to the age of 10 years. Her diverse range includes cotton-ball soft children’s nightwear, dashing dungarees and snugly body-warmers. One of her bestsellers is the superhero cape that features an exquisite appliqué, perfect for the little superman or superwoman in your life.

Cook said: “The response to my product range has been phenomenal. Orders for teepees which are perfect for the warm summer months are flying out of the door. They’re great with co-ordinated floor cushions, especially for a birthday or slumber party.”

Producing beautifully hand-stitched clothing is

second nature for Cook, who has a degree in Fashion Studies. She enjoys channelling her fashionista flair to create stunning designs that cannot be found on the high street.

Are you looking for a present with a difference? Or do you have a really specific gift in mind? Cook can work her magic and will try her best to accommodate your requests. Ensure your child stands out from the crowd and support a local business in the process by checking out Alice Cook Designs at w w w . alicecookdesigns. co.uk.

The Big Show is a series of live events and exhibitions across Derby which offers visitors an opportunity to experience the best of emerging contemporary art and design practice from the University’s College of Arts and College of Engineering and Technology students.

Their work explores the issues and subjects of today’s world and also looks ahead, predicting and setting the trends for tomorrow.

The Big Show runs from May 15 to June 13 and kick-starts with The Big Show Music Showcase at Derby Theatre next Friday (15).

The live concert, which starts at 7.30pm, features a diverse mix of rock, pop and acoustic music from students on the University’s Popular Music and Music Technology courses.

An eclecti display of work from final-year art, design, creative therapy and engineering students will be showcased at The Big Show Public Exhibition from Saturday, May 30 to Saturday, June 13.

The exhibition will be spread across Britannia Mill and Markeaton Street sites and is free to view. No booking is required for this event.

Film students will also be playing a part in the final year shows with a special film premiere at Quad on Monday, June 1.

The event, called Indie Exposure, showcases the best work from graduating Film Production students and will premiere a series of short films. The 50-minute screening will be followed by a student talk and Q&A session.

The final part of the Big Show is the University’s high-profile Fashion Show, taking place at Derby Theatre on Wednesday June 3.

This production, which will see both a matinee and evening performance, presents the innovative collections of final-year, award-winning students.

The collections are worn by professional models and the show features an exciting light show and loud vibrant music.

Among the student collections this year will be Nicole Wells, winner of the prestigious St Andrews Young Designer Awards 2015.

Professor Huw Davies, Dean of the College of Arts, said: “The College of Arts has had a fantastic year so far with Guardian League table results that have seen us in the top 10 UK rankings in fashion and textiles and art and design.

“Our final year show is a fantastic celebration of our students’ achievements, where our Markeaton Street and Britannia Mill sites become a thriving hub of visual art, design, textiles and photography.

“Visitors to the show will see professional and inspirational creative work that demonstrates the depth and innovation of our students and showcasing our UK leading courses and facilities.”

For further information about The Big Show, and to book tickets for the music, fashion and film events, visit: http://www.derby.ac.uk/big-show/ To find out more about studying at the University of Derby’s College of Arts and College of Engineering and Technology, visit: www.derby.ac.uk/arts/ and www.derby.ac.uk/engineering-technology

30 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

Address: Ellen House, Heath Road Holmewood, Chesterfield Derbyshire, S42 5RB Telephone: 01246 599 999

ENABLE IS A HOUSING PROVIDER WITH A DIFFERENCE, EMPOWERING PEOPLE WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES TO LIVE AN ENJOYABLE AND INDEPENDENT LIFE. It was founded in 1990 from a need to champion equality and support those who needed help the most. Enable is now part of the emh Group which offers affordable homes and related care and support services to communities across the East Midlands. After serving the needs of hundreds of residents over the past 25 years, Enable is the powerhouse provider giving vulnerable people a voice and a safe, comfortable home where they can live in relaxing, tranquil surroundings.

People in need of support and often marginalised in society are the happy residents at Enable’s homes.

They come from different walks of life and enjoy the sense of community living at various complexes which includes daily activities and communal gatherings.

Enable’s laser beam focus is on prioritising people’s wellbeing and happiness. It does this by providing excellent housing and support services for those with a learning difficulty, a disability, mental ill health, or for other vulnerable groups such as older people, victims of domestic violence, homeless people and teenage parents whose housing options

are limited and who have nowhere else to go.

Lana Hoolahan-Slater, Communications Co-ordinator said: “Our dedicated team focuses on putting people first. We offer excellent supported living arrangements at different levels. Everyone is treated as an individual here and Enable recognise that the level of support varies from person to person. Some people receive help for just a few hours a week, whilst others have 24hour support. We work around the individual because they deserve only the best.”

Enable has care homes and supported living arrangements across the Midlands with a new batch of beautiful homes recently added in Grassmoor, Chesterfield. With new residents and new properties to cater for, the Enable team is also expanding.

Home Support Workers and Activities Organisers are just a few vacancies to mention. If you want to make a difference and have a rewarding career, or want more information about Enable’s housing options, call 01246 599 999 now or hop onto the website www. enable-group.org.uk.

“OUR DEDICATED TEAM FOCUSES ON PUTTING PEOPLE FIRST. WE OFFER EXCELLENT SUPPORTED LIVING ARRANGEMENTS AT DIFFERENT LEVELS.“

Contact us...

E: info@enable-care.org.uk W: www.enable-care.org.uk

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 31

32 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

Business www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk

East Midlands Leadership Expert Shares Insight to Success New Book Helps Business Leaders Maximise Performance Through Positive Insight An East Midlands leadership and training specialist is looking forward to the publication of his first book on June 10th.

Tony Brooks, owner of the Leadership Training Workshop, which works with companies across the East Midlands, has drawn upon his years of experience in business, leadership and research to write a book entitled ‘PI Leadership – The 7 Positive Insight Steps to Peak Performance Leadership’. The book focusses on bringing positive insights, thinking and strategies to enable leaders to achieve their greatest potential.

The book will be launched at a free event at The Nottinghamshire Golf Club, Stragglethorpe, on

Monday 10th June at 9.30 a.m. At the event, business leaders will be able to gain powerful insights into the 7 steps and how they can be applied in business to maximise performance and increase profits.

PI (Positive Insight) Leadership is not just rooted in theory, but is a practical framework that is having a positive impact on businesses in the East Midlands.

Tony has worked with East Midlands companies such as Thorn Baker Recruitment, Rodgers Leask, Datcom and Response Network.

Commenting on its work with Tony and PI Leadership, John Robinson, Managing Director of Thorn Baker Recruitment said: “Working with Tony has supported us in achieving a place in the Sunday Times ‘Top 100 Companies To Work For’ listing.

For us this is absolutely priceless and is having a positive impact on our business.”

Tony Brooks has previously spent over 20 years

working in business, experiencing the highs, lows and challenges that are common to most leaders.

It is through this experience that Tony developed an interest in the mind and how a leader’s view of themselves and their environment is the most important influence on leadership success. This book is the result of Tony’s personal experience as a business leader, building his own business, achieving a Masters in Psychology and working as a leadership specialist with 100s of business leaders over the past 8 years.

Tony comments: “Like many people I was uncertain about exactly where my career was going in my earlier years, but I knew that I wanted to be successful, happy and fulfilled. While I was working at my last company I became interested in the critical impact of one’s own psychology on leadership performance and so completed a degree in psychology before setting up my own company

in 2007.”

In his book Tony sets out practical, manageable steps to develop leadership style, personal fulfilment, the culture of a company and the results achieved. Tony has named his approach Positive Insight (PI) and his book details the 7 Positive Insight Steps to Peak Performance Leadership.

Tony adds: “PI stands for Positive Insight. PI relates to adopting a positive viewpoint for how you see yourself, others and the situations you find yourself in. Learning to develop your PI Leadership, will motivate, engage and empower you, the business leader, and those around you which will help to bring success and improved results in all areas of leadership and hence your business.”

PI Leadership will be available to buy from Amazon from June 10th. Details of the launch event are available via The Leadership Training Workshop – www.tltworkshop.com

Is your broadband too slow?

Is your broadband unreliable?

Integritas Financial Planners based in Swadlincote is owned and led by Mark Johnson a Chartered Financial Planner.

“Pension Freedom” This month looks at

Mark

Flexi-Access Drawdown (FAD)

Your business could get up to £3,000 towards high-speed broadband, so you can store files in the cloud, transfer large large files quickly and enjoy a better service every day.

• e-volve YOUR INTERNET! • e-volve, the No 1 Voucher Supplier in Derby To find out more and apply call 0808 168 9699 or visit e-volvesolutions.net

FAD is a new form of Income Drawdown available alongside the existing capped drawdown or short term annuity plans. It has replaced capped and flexible drawdown options and has been available to new clients since 6th April 2015; it also replaces previous flexible drawdown plans.

• All new drawdown plans taken out since 6th April 2015 are classed as FAD. • There are no limits on the level of income that can be withdrawn.

• There are no minimum secure income requirements.

• Plan holder can take 25% tax free cash from their designated drawdown fund, subject to available Lifetime Allowance, as previously.

• Whilst only tax free cash is taken, Annual Allowance will remain at £40,000.

• Balance of the pension fund can remain invested.

• Access to income can be through a lump sum and/or flexible income and would be subject to the marginal rate of income tax.

• Once any taxable income is taken, a £10,000 money purchase annual allowance (MPAA) will apply.

• All pre April 2015 flexible drawdown arrangements automatically become FAD The option of annuity purchase still remains and should be considered before accessing a pension fund through FAD. For more information you can contact Integritas at enquiries@integritasfp.co.uk or on 01283 777014

Integritas Financial Planners Ltd is an appointed representative of Financial Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 33

Workplace pensions and auto-enrolment

Automatic Enrolment is ‘one of the biggest reforms to UK pensions in decades’ according to the National Association of Pension Funds. No employer – however small – can afford to ignore these changes.

The first phase of reforms got underway in October 2012, and employers will be coming into the scheme over the following six years.

For the first time, employers will be obliged to pay into pensions unless employees opt out. There will be extra administration, involving satisfying the Pensions Regulator. The process of introducing automatic enrolment into an organisation is not something that can be left to the last minute.

Almost all employers are affected.

The change also affects all ‘workers’ between ages 16 and 75 who work, or usually work, in the UK. ‘Workers’ includes employees and others who are contracted to work for you, except as part of their own business.

Every employer has a ‘staging date’ between 1 October 2012 and 1 February 2018. The ‘staging date’ is determined by the size of the PAYE scheme

at 1 April 2012, the PAYE reference number or, for businesses started since 1 April 2012, when they first paid PAYE income.

The Pensions Regulator recommends that employers start planning for automatic enrolment 12 to 18 months before their staging date.

Complying with auto-enrolment obligations is a complex process, and it’s important that businesses develop an action plan. There are many decisions to be made and potential pitfalls at every stage. There is then the ongoing process of ensuring that the business complies with the legislation.

The Pensions Regulator has produced detailed guidance, but many companies value the expertise of an adviser who can look at their particular circumstances and recommend solutions.

To receive a complimentary guide covering Wealth Management, Retirement planning or Inheritance Tax planning, contact Matthew Colton, Financial Adviser on 0114 3980413 or email Matthew.colton@sjpp.co.uk

The Tax Benefits Of Thinking Inside ‘The Box’ – The Patent Box.

by Pete Miller of The Miller Partnership Is your company making trading profits through exploiting patents?

If it is, have you considered the amount of tax relief you could be saving with the Patent Box? Introduced on April 1 2013 to encourage UK innovation and entrepreneurship, the Patent Box is a relief which will, in due course, allow companies who own patents to cut their overall Corporation Tax rate substantially.

It is being phased in over five years from April 1 2013, with relief standing at 60% of the maximum in FY 2013, at 70% in FY 2014 and reaching 100 % in FY 2017.

So, if you or your client is a trading company with profits from exploiting patents after March 31 2013, you might want to consider what Patent Box relief could do for you.

First, you’ll need to ask the following questions:

We’ve also been working with our clients to ensure that they will continue to qualify for relief through the Patent Box should their business be affected by group reorganisations, sales or mergers, for example.

Patent Box is particularly generous in that even if you don’t yet hold a patent, you could benefit by applying for one now. The notional relief available starts to accumulate from the time the patent is applied for and can be claimed once the patent is granted.

And applying for a patent might not be as expensive as you might think.

To find out more, please contact The Miller Partnership by phone or email right away for a free consultation. If you’re eligible for the Patent Box we’ll do the necessary tax computations.

But remember, this relief is only available from the time you apply for the patent, so don’t delay.

• Does the company own patents which it exploits as part of its trade?

Fabulous Funding Firsty I would like to say “Happy Birthday”(for yesterday) to my colleague, webmaster (and cousin) Dennis at DBN web design.

Secondly I am going to congratulate him on another excellent coding execution, of a Wild Ideas website design.

The latest collaboration website project to go live must be the most dramatic transformation we have done so far.

This client already had a website, but ( I hope she won’t mind me being brutally honest), it was quite terrible.

Proper DIY, totally unprofessional, and the images were completely random – they made no sense whatsoever to the business the site was trying to promote. . . . . . . a tender and bid writing service, specialising in helping you with researching and advising you on grant opportunities, so you can grow and develop your business organisation.

The thing is, by contacting DBN web design she was already acknowledging that her site was ready for a much needed re-design.

Dennis chatted to her about content, interactivity and budgets, and then gave her a price for the work and put her in touch with me, so I could have the usual design briefing conversation.

Tina is a lovely lady, very helpful and cooperative, and although the design of the site was poor, the written content was accurate and comprehensive . . . . . . . . . as you would expect from a writer.

Tina explained, that the old website had been very kindly created by a photographer friend who had used a few of his own “photographic art creations” to break up the pages.

She already had a logo, that was a bit flat looking, and so I suggested a bit of a face lift to give it more of a 3D look for the website, . . . . . . and also choose a new font for the corporate branding, that would be used on all the text for the site.

As the only logo file she had was a pixel jpg version, then I also re-drew it as a vector (line) file that would allow greater flexibility over all media formats and sizes.

• Or does the company exploit someone else’s patent under an exclusive licence?

• Does the company have intellectual property that could be patented so that patent box relief can be claimed?

We chatted easily, and established a feel for what kind of look Tina was hoping to achieve so I was able to set to work on the design idea.

If the answer to any of these questions is ‘yes’, the Patent Box may well be available to you.

Tina also emailed a re-draft of the text she wanted for the new site, and I did a bit of picture research, taking advantage of a well-timed offer at my preferred image library.

In recent months I’ve received many inquiries from companies and/or their accountants in sectors as diverse as home interiors and civil engineering – and most stand to benefit substantially from this welcome tax relief.

pete.miller@themillerpartnership.com

Now once I get inspired with a design, I can often create the whole thing in one or two longish

sessions, over a couple of days . . . . . . however, there were mysterious forces at work, because Tina contacted me to say she had accidentally “found” the new website design and was quite pleased* with it !! ?

Well this was news to me, as at this point I was still working on the logo re-vamp and the font selection.

It finally transpired, that after a random “tweet” where Tina mentioned she needed a new website, a budding designer had used her existing content and created a mock-up design with a wordpress template. . . . . . and it was accessible live on the internet – (under a bizarre temporary web address) but how on earth Tina managed to accidentally locate it is still a mystery.

So, to compromise, I retained the basis of this “approved”* mock -up site . . . . . . but also used my own Wild Ideas original new elements and the chosen specific targeted “writing” images, to create the initial website design.

I submitted jpg proofs to await feedback from my colleague at DBN and the client, Tina.

Finally, incorporating Tina’s text amendments, together with DBN’s suggestions to assist and enhance the coding, I produced finished jpg proofs of each page for final client approval.

And thus the new website design was born. . . . . . . created as a detailed photoshop document, containing all the live text, images and elements for DBN to reference and extract to use in the coded information.

With Wild Ideas creating the home, about and services page, I then leave DBN to do the contact and blog pages in the same format and style.

DBN also adapt the format and create the various responsive layouts, enabling it to view well on all devices, and correctly on all the popular browsers.

After one final approval on the coded interpretation of my design, it is then left for Tina to give the last OK before Dennis launches the site for all the world to see.

So now Wild Ideas and DBN have helped Tina, her website is doing a much improved job at promoting her business service of . . . . helping you and your organisation win more funding.

If you are interested, in sourcing funding opportunities to help your business grow then take a look at http://www.fundlinks.org.uk/ Thanks for reading x

34 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

Reactive HR or Proactive HR?

benefits of a proactive HR approach.

Proactive HR management requires planning and forethought to reduce risk and encourage sustainability and growth.

Having a clearly defined, positive HR culture can

by Sarah Daniels, significantly increase employee engagement Managing Director, HR Response Ltd and motivation, whilst substantially reducing absence and staff turnover.

A positive HR HR issues occur within businesses that require culture promotes good communication, a people a quick reactive response. These could be; focussed management strategy that links to the discipline and grievance, absence issues, and poor overall business plan, and provides the vehicle for performance. implementing efficiencies that drive high performing Reactive HR certainly has its place in providing teams. a positive solution. Staff see things being taken A company that embraces a proactive HR approach seriously straight away and issues being addressed, will have policies and procedures in place that therefore limiting further unrest. address all areas of HR as well as how to deal with By implementing a reactive HR culture you are crisis situations. They will have spent time educating constantly reacting to events and dealing with their managers and staff about their HR culture. them as they occur rather than planning for them Being proactive with HR allows you time (and before they happen. This type of ‘fire-fighting’ is money) you would have spent ‘fire-fighting’ to make an aspect of all HR Management but one that is improvements to your HR strategy. Anything that prominent in some companies more than others. makes your business stand out from the crowd has Unfortunately, if it is the only strategy for HR it can to be good for attracting new staff and retaining the be an uphill struggle to keep on top of every day HR ones you have.

Management.

If you want to know more about delivering a We will always need occasional ‘reactive HR’ proactive HR strategy, please contact us; management, but this should be secondary to the www.hrresponse.co.uk

Pendersons are industry leaders for training, assessment and consultancy. With over 25 years experience in providing specialist and dedicated services to our customers within the rail industry, we are proud to announce that we have introduced several new apprenticeships.

requirements of the Intermediate Apprenticeship in Team Leading. It can also be used on a standalone basis.

Customer Service ~ designed for learners who deal with customers on a daily basis as part of their job role and wish to improve their At Pendersons we strongly believe in “going knowledge and skills. the extra mile” for all of our clientele through consultation to identify your training and Business Administration ~ aimed at learners development requirements. We also believe the working within a business and administration role proven way to get the skills, knowledge and who wish to improve their knowledge and skills in employees you want is through a Pendersons a variety of work environments and sectors. apprenticeship programme. Our apprenticeships are flexible and relevant to your business and the All apprenticeships delivered by Pendersons are most effective way to up-skill your workforce. We fully funded subject to eligibility. We are expert at now offer Apprenticeships in the following: helping you to find the best candidates for your apprenticeship vacancies. Not only do we deliver Warehousing and Distribution ~ covers the real results, we deliver the results your business movement and storage of goods, and is an is looking for by helping you recruit and train the essential part of logistics operations. workforce of tomorrow.

Team Leading ~ an accredited qualification Contact us today to discover how we can aimed at learners working within a team leading transform your workforce. Call 01538 756596 or role. It forms the knowledge and competency email sales@pendersons.com

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 35

Why Google Loves Fresh Content Marketing students help brand Regular, varied and engaging SEO articles are the key to earning Derbyshire businesses the love of readers and Google rankings alike – and you don’t need to be a marketing supremo to know how to increase traffic.

Keep Writing!

Keeping content regular and varied is absolutely essential if you’re seeking to captivate regulars and induct new searchers to your website. Put the time in and people will follow.

Thinking Headlines The headline is the first part of your article that readers will see; tailor it to be as captivating and as ‘new’ as possible.

Researching certain key phrases and keywords unique to your article to use in your headline will also help improve the likelihood that Google highlights your website at the very top of its listings. This process is known as Search Engine Optimisation (or SEO) – and it’s an extremely important factor in getting seen online.

SEO is a practice whereby an article is more likely to be listed at the top of search engine indexing for certain keywords and phrases. Many businesses rely upon SEO specialists to research trends and analyse ways in which their online content can be edited.

If you are keen to make money from writing online long-term, seeking advice on optimisation for your articles is a shrewd investment.

Be Yourself!

The final tip is the most crucial – write for you. Write as if you are keen to persuade someone to your point of view, don’t just present the cold, hard facts.

Conclusion As Google’s method for ranking results changes on occasion and there is no general consensus on achieving guaranteed success in blogging, making a splash in online content can be tricky. Follow these simple steps to create interesting, captivating content that will generate readers keen to see more from you.

Marketing students at the University of Derby recently presented brand recommendations to two Derbyshire-based organisations (May 6).

Six postgraduates studying the MSc in Marketing Management were tasked with delivering new ideas to mental health charity, Derwent Rural Counselling Services (DRCS) and stately home, Haddon Hall.

Following guided tours and visits from the companies, the students were briefed about the two businesses and set objectives they would like to meet.

They combined their knowledge learned on a branding module with extensive research to provide ideas to DRCS and Haddon Hall on how to strengthen their brands and positions in the marketplace.

Marketing students Elena Papamethodiou, Kristina Saputkaite and Naomi Wesson delivered their brand audits to Mark Penman (Operations Manager) and John Saynor (Chair of the Board of Trustees) from DRCS, while Lord and Lady Edward Manners of Haddon Hall, listened to presentations from students, Amani Kwayu and Aisah Muflih.

After presenting to Haddon Hall, Indonesian-

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born Aisah Muflih, said: “It’s been interesting to research the attitudes and expectations to why Britons visit stately homes as we don’t have them in Indonesia.

“Taking part in a real-life scenario allowed us to receive feedback on our recommendations and to see how beneficial the ideas were to the business.

The project has taught me how to develop ideas across a number of topics, including brand equity, communication and digital.”

Hildegard Wiesehofer-Climpson, lecturer in Marketing and Operations at the University, said: “This project has given the students professional brand experience in a working environment, from the initial research to idea generation and then presenting to company clients. The skills they have learned will be invaluable in their future roles.”

Lady Edward Manners added: “It’s fantastic for us to have the opportunity to listen to these ideas and to work with the students. It’s a real learning experience for both parties.”

For more information about the MSc Marketing Management course at the University of Derby, please visit: www.derby.ac.uk/courses/ postgraduate/marketing-management-msc/

36 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

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38 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

The Painting Parlour, a new “Paint A Pot” studio in Little Eaton, Derbyshire is feeling all patriotic after the birth of Princess Charlotte. So much so, that the owner Jo Monahan pledged to give away free baby print plates to all babies named Charlotte in the Derby area throughout the month of May. When the requests for appointments started pouring in, Jo thought maybe she had been a bit hasty. But true to her word the following Monday, Jo opened the doors of The Painting Parlour and welcomed all the gorgeous babies in.

Jo said: “We had such a lovely day, it was like an exclusive baby Charlotte Club.” The babies, mums and grandmas appeared to enjoy the whole bonding experience too. The mums were so impressed with the lovely setting and choice of brightly coloured and tastefully decorated baby print plates, that all of them had extras done while they were there.

The Painting Parlour not only specialises in baby

foot and hand prints onto China, but it also boasts a wonderful studio catering for children's “Paint A Pot” parties and regular ladies’ painting evenings too.

Check out The Painting Parlour at www.facebook. com/thepaintingparlour or call Jo now to book an appointment on 07817613486.

Please call for a free quotation today

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Services • Tarmac and Block Paving • Car Parks & Forecourts • Driveways • Playgrounds • Access Roads • Slabbing •Fencing • Fully Insured to drop kerbs • Free Estimate and Advice • Concreting • Groundworks • Landscaping • Derbyshire Trusted Trader • Paths Our hours of business are 8:00 - 4:30 Monday to Friday

Email: info@joebrowncontractors.co.uk | Telephone: 01773 834455

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 39

ChipsAway Scratches and scuffs won’t dent your pockets

The UK’s leading on the spot car body repair specialist Call Eimis Tuzikas

07904 276851

Paintwork Scratches, Bumper Scuffs, Alloy Wheel Damage, Minor Dents Covers DE24 areas + DE21 7 + DE73 5/6 + DE72 2/3

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Holbrook Garden Maintenance Landscape & Gardening Services • Tree work undertaken • Mowing • Fencing • Paving • Treework • Hedges Cut / Reduced • Registered Waste Carrier • Fully Insured

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40 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 41

Pets Corner www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk

Did you know that approximately 13 million (46%) of UK households have pets?

We’re a nation of animal-lovers, if this statistic is anything to go by, which is why there are numerous animal charity appeals all year round.

The PDSA, Moorcroft and Bluecross are just a few charities to mention, where injured and homeless pets are taken in and shown some much deserved TLC as they await a new home. In fact

the world’s oldest animal charity is reportedly the RSPCA, which was founded in 1809 in Liverpool.

Are you looking for a pet, or want to support an animal charity?

Does the welfare of cats, dogs, horses and other animals keep you up at night? You can support animal charities in various ways. If you’re hands-on, then many centres recruit interns or

volunteers, where duties include feeding the animals and cleaning out kennels.

Stringent budgets mean that often volunteers are the lifeblood of many charitable institutions.

Volunteering can be a beneficial two-way street, where the charity benefits from your work, but you also gain specialist skills and useful work experience.

If you’d like to make monetary donations, always look out for a registered charity number. Why not give your chosen charity a call? See how you can help change the course of life for the animals and happy donating!

Bransby Horses Rescue and Welfare A horse rescue charity in the Midlands is raising awareness and funds to help horses, ponies and donkeys who are facing cruelty, brutality and neglectful situations. The Bransby Horses Rescue and Welfare charity has over 500 equines and operates across two sites at Lincolnshire and Herefordshire.

Rescued equines in the charity’s care are given expert medical treatment and tended to in warm, comfortable and secure surroundings. The safekeeping of the animals is key at Bransby, who go the extra mile to provide care that the animals so desperately need and deserve.

There are a whole host of situations which see animals trot through the doors at Bransby Horses. Equines are often left abandoned in a field, or consistently poorly fed resulting in severe malnourishment of the body. You may not think it, but the weather also plays a part in the number of animals neglected. The chilly winter months can see animals left out and abandoned in icy conditions which leads to illnesses including

equine influenza. The trouble with these ailments is that most of them can be highly contagious, adding an extra strain on resources and the Bransby Horses Team.

The charity has been undertaking its rewarding and altruistic work for the past 46 years. Its objective is to prevent cruelty to equines, protect them from unnecessary suffering and promote knowledge of their care and treatment among the public.

Bransby Horses is a charity completely funded by the generosity of public donations. This is why fundraising is the lifeblood that helps animals get the much needed care and support they deserve.

There are many ways in which you can help.

If you love equines and want to make a difference, donate at www.justgiving.com/ bransbyhorsesICUnit to help build a specialist intensive care unit for sick animals. You could also fundraise by hosting your own special event, or even consider being a “Friend For Life Fosterer” under the charity’s innovative re-homing scheme.

To find out more about Bransby Horses and the wonderful work they do, please call 01427 788 464 now.

Telephone: 01509 263 357 Opening Times: Closed Mondays, Tue-Sun 14:00-17:00 Address: 13 Albert Place, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE11 2DN

42 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

4 Paws Dog Training

A Dog Training Service specialising in obedience training and socialisation is ensuring dogs in the Midlands are on their best behaviour. 4 Paws Dog Training & Behavioural Services, based in Sutton in Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, is a friendly dog training service that treats your dog with the respect it deserves, whilst focusing on building obedience and promoting an enjoyably enhanced lifestyle.

4 Paws Dog Training & Behavioural Services provide obedience training for both adult dogs and puppies.

From six week Group Obedience Classes, to One-To-One Training, there is something available at every level to suit the needs of you and your dog.

You may wish to instil good manners into your puppy from day one, or your re-homed dog may suffer from anti-social problems- Whether you have an unruly pet, or you feel that your dog could benefit from being better socialised, there isn’t an issue that 4 Paws Dog Training & Behavioural Services cannot offer assistance with.

Training is delivered by Andrew Weaver, an expert with over 30 years’ experience in obedience training, canine health and behavioural psychology. His ethically sound training methods ensure the best possible outcomes, so that the bond between dog and owner remains nourished throughout training.

Call 07803831227 now for more information, a friendly chat about your needs and how 4 Paws Dog Training & Behavioural Services can help you and your dog.

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 43

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Motoring www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk

This Months Car Reviews

by Syd Taylor

Fiat 500X

Legendary motor manufacturer Fiat continues to go from strength to strength - not merely tailoring its vehicles according to prevailing trends but pushing ever forward in the vanguard of promise.

And if you are in any doubt that todays Fiat is a trailblazing enterprise, consider the virtues of the new 500X Italian Crossover as eye catching a chassis as ever sashayed down the catwalk of cardom.

Here is poise, here is balance, here is style guaranteed to turn the head of the most jaded.

A motoring mood in todays ever changing world can be epitomised in the phrase 'best of everything'. 'One car, two souls' with the combination of city look and off-road look, say Fiat These days buyers want a vehicle that does everything and does everything well - and the new 500X is sensible but so stylish.

The all-new Mazda2 has been named Car of the Year in the annual Car Dealer Power Awards. The leading motor trade title’s annual awards are decided by votes from UK car dealers, who choose the best manufacturers, models and suppliers they deal with.

The all-new Mazda2 combines Mazda’s unique SKYACTIV technology with its striking KODO: Soul of Motion design philosophy, to bring new levels of technical sophistication, active safety and driving pleasure to the supermini sector.

With a choice of 11 petrol and four diesel variants, the 15-strong all-new Mazda2 line-up stands out thanks to its signature wing front grille, predatory headlamp styling and muscular cab-rearward styling.

With a longer wheelbase and smaller overhangs to maximise interior space, the all-new Mazda2’s

It's sufficiently swanky for that 'pick-me-up' feeling but totally dependable when it comes to providing the necessaries.

It's a car that offers a welcoming embrace to every type of driver from the sporty to the economy conscious.

This well-styled compact crossover is an extension of the 500 family that is very practical with a roomy and well judged interior, assembled from

superior ergonomics and premium interior finishes raise the bar in quality and design in the supermini segment.

Enhanced for a supermini’s dimensions, the allnew Mazda2 features a wealth of class-beating and confidence-inspiring qualities.

The striking KODO styling conveys Mazda’s characteristic vitality and agility. With lines and shapes expressing strength and pent-up energy waiting to be released, the all-new Mazda2 is clearly no ordinary supermini.

It features the signature wing Mazda front grille and glinting predator-like headlamps of other KODObased Mazdas together with the solid stance, muscular character lines and cab-rearwards profile.

A longer wheelbase with smaller overhangs opens up more space for occupants and powertrains while also enhancing stability and passive safety This is also the first Mazda with a four-lamp LED design to go with the dynamic round signature of the low-slung headlamps, which nicely complement the U-shaped signature of the horizontal combination tail lights.

Inside the repositioned A-pillars and exterior mirrors provide a better forward field of view and wider viewing angle and it is more spacious with added front shoulder room and a wider centre console along with more rear knee clearance and legroom.

Among the most remarkable features of the all-new Mazda2’s cabin is the extraordinary level of cutting-edge technology – particularly for a car in this class – and the unprecedentedly user-friendly layout that makes these systems so safe and easy to use.

high quality materials. There's generous space for occupants plus a surprisingly big boot and you get the usual permutation of 'seats up or down' to increase carrying capacity - but the ease with which you can change configurations is impressive.

Engine choice includes a 138bhp 1.4 turbo petrol and a 109bhp 1.6 petrol. Later on there will be a 168bhp 1.4 turbo and a 184bhp 2.4 litre petrol with nine speed auto transmission and four-wheel-drive. There's also a 118bhp 1.6 diesel with frontwheel-drive and a138bhp 2.0 diesel with four-wheel-drive and a 9 speed automatic transmission.

Prices range from £14,595 to £25,845.

All variants tested at launch were good to drive, offering lively performance when 'sport' on the 'mood selector' was selected.

Each gave a solid and settled feel on a mix of road types with

handling that is responsive for the type of vehicle. The overall appeal will surely have competitors like the Renault Captur, the Vauxhall Mokka and the Ford Eco Sport quite worried.

Any preconceived idea that the 4wd variant was just a 'soft roader' were soon dispelled on a fairly challenging section of the short off-road course. The

The all-new Mazda2 is built around the driver with ergonomic controls and displays. It is also easier to find the ideal driving position with improved pedal layout, adjustable steering wheel and seats.

Available from SE-L 90ps grade, a 7-inch touchscreen combines with a rotary Multimedia Commander to create an enhanced humanmachine interface (HMI) offering extremely safe, intuitive interactivity and infotainment control.

DAB radio features for the first time in the Mazda2 and, in SE-L Nav and Sport Nav grades, a new navigation system offers greater accuracy, improved search features and three years of free map updates.

The new range features: • Five level grade structure -SE, SE-L, SE-L Nav, Sport and Sport Nav- combining generous standard equipment with premium quality and craftsmanship • Cutting-edge technology including 7-inch colour

'electronic rollover mitigation' did its job remarkably well - driving home the message that onroad or off-road, the 500X is not compromised.

In short, the 500X does indeed cross over to the sunny side of motoring. Even on a brief test it convinced me with its assured promise of Fiat felicity.

touch-screen*, MZD Connect* smartphone connectivity and Active Driving Display** - the first head-up display in the B-segment • Optimised range of Euro 6-compliant SKYACTIV powertrains -1.5-litre, 75, 90 and 115ps petrol and 1.5-litre, 105ps diesel engines • Comprehensive safety package as standard, including Hill Hold Assist, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, Dynamic Stability Control and Traction Control System.

Car Dealer Magazine Editor, Colin Channon said: “With lots of standard kit, a spacious interior and impressive performance levels, plus sharp looks inside and out, it’s a wise supermini buy that’s been very well received by dealers and their customers.

By quite a clear margin, this year’s Car Dealer Power Car of the Year is the Mazda2.” * Available as standard from all-new Mazda2 90ps SE-L models ** Available as part of the optional safety pack

Cars don’t come any brighter than all-new Mazda2, with its advanced connectivity* keeping you in touch while you’re on the move. At the same time, the generous levels of standard specification and agile driving dynamics are enough to make every journey shine.

To book your test driveº call 01623 622522.

GK Group Mansfield

Sherwood Oaks, Southwell Road West, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire NG18 4GF

01623 622522 www.gkgroup-mazda.co.uk

MORE TORQUE, MORE ACTION

ALL-NEW MAZDA CX-3 MAKES A STATEMENT

More exhilaration delivered by the exceptional driving dynamics. More style with distinctive, rugged looks and an imposing stance. More advanced thanks to the latest SKYACTIV Technology, connectivity and infotainment services.

Want to see more? Experience all-new Mazda CX-3 for yourself by contacting GK Group Mazda today.

GK Group Mansfield

Sherwood Oaks, Southwell Road West, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire NG18 4GF

01623 622522 www.gkgroup-mazda.co.uk

# CX3

The mpg figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results obtained through laboratory testing. These are provided for comparability purposes only and may not reflect your actual driving results. Models shown: all-new Mazda CX-3 105ps AWD Sport Nav Diesel, from £23,395 OTR, all-new Mazda CX-3 120ps 2WD Sport Nav, from £20,495 OTR. Models shown feature optional Metallic paint: Soul Red Metallic (£660) and Ceramic Metallic (£540).

TEST DRIVE ALL-NEW MAZDA2 NOW The mpg figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results obtained through laboratory testing. These are provided for comparability purposes only and may not reflect your actual driving results. Model shown: all-new Mazda2 115ps Sport Nav, OTR from £15,995. OTR price includes VAT, number plates, delivery, 12 months’ road fund licence, first registration fee, 3 year or 60,000 mile warranty and 3 years’ European Roadside Assistance. *The advanced connectivity and entertainment system MZD -Connect is not available on 75ps SE and 75ps SE-L models. °Test drives subject to applicant status and availability. Details correct at time of print.

The official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the all-new Mazda2 range: Urban 43.5 (6.5) - 74.3 (3.8). Extra Urban 68.9 (4.1) - 88.3 (3.2). Combined 56.5 (5.0) - 83.1 (3.4). CO2 emissions (g/km) 117 - 89.

BRIGHT YOUNG THING

The official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the all-new Mazda CX-3 range: Urban 34.9 (8.1) - 64.2 (4.4).

Extra Urban 51.4 (5.5) - 74.3 (3.8). Combined 44.1 (6.4) - 70.6 (4.0). CO2 emissions (g/km) 150 – 105.

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 47

48 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

Citroen C4 Grand Picasso a long trip. Hand in hand with this quality goes safety: five star.

You're protected by all the usual airbags plus a magic function that calls you to heel by tugging on your seatbelt should you drift over a white line.

Improvements are many but Citroens canny designers have had the good sense not to throw out 'Le baby avec le bath water'.

Every change is for the better with nothing lost but much gained.

There's more rear headroom and there's elbow room aplenty for the maracas shakin' minors 'But most charabancs are disastrously dull to drive' I hear you say.

Not a bit of it. The 2.0 litre 148bhp diesel is just the job. You easily get 50 mpg if you drive it like it should be driven and if you really

With a futuristic look, the Citroen Grand Picasso MPV is one of the most highly rated classic designs in its field. It combines a modernistic concept with a dash of class and an invigorating dose of taste.

In associating the design with the twentieth century maestro of the brush, Citroen have done much more than pickaback on a painters fame. Rather they

have canvassed the market and produced a masterpiece which if it was not a practical automobile - would surely grace a sculpture salon in the Louvre.

Having won the hearts and minds of many, in its latest incarnation, the Grand Picasso that starts at £19,460 and rises to £28,055 for the top of the range Blue HDi 150 Auto Exclusive+ (Tested here) reaches out, making itself accessible to the new upand-coming market of family orientated orienteers of the great high road.

It's a seven seat MPV that in five seat configuration has a huge boot, with everything folded flat has as much space as a van - and

when the ingeniously designed rear two seats pop up, has all the attributes of a perfect family MPV. There's a 'Star Trek' touch screen that replaces knobbly knobs and levers to control most functions all set in an attractive dashboard beneath a huge windscreen.

Visibility is panoramic. You enjoy the motoring equivalent of the observation car on the Canadian Pacific Railroad: it's 'Big Sky' country in this Citroen.

'How comfy is it?' You ask. Well - I'm pleased to say it's very comfortable. A supple ride, supportive seats, good quality materials and lots of luxury touches all combine to make it a most pleasant environment for

The new MG6 the true tradition of the marque.

This is a car that 'goes where you point it', running rings around stodgy amorphous rivals and putting an ability into the hands of the driver to let him or her touch a seam of pleasure. An electronic differential (E-Diff) works in conjunction with the sophisticated stability control system to give an 'involved' feel and, of course, increase safety. In one of these dare I say it - some fun is put back into driving.

The revised MG6 says a good deal for the deep foundations on which it is built. It is testimony to the integrity of the new operation that the marque has survived with its reputation so high.

The MG marque has been an institution since the 1920s when it lit a spark of enthusiasm that has never gone out. That the name, bolstered by a sporting reputation, has survived in the turbulent cauldron of an everchanging motor industry is testament to its resilient heritage.

It clearly regards its provenance as something much more than a few stories in the annals of motoring, for MG is still primarily about enjoying driving and enjoying cars.

Always punching above its weight, the brand values that have defined it endure to this day as the ghosts from its rich history can be seen in the new models - and in none more so than the

new MG6 - a car good enough to revive memories of how MG used to do things in its earlier days.

Now thoroughly improved with revised exterior styling, an upgraded interior and even better motive power, the new MG6 looks and feels like a different car that has been honed to a level whereby one could justifiably claim that it is in a class above.

With change and upgrades comes, of course, increased cost - but MG have somehow successfully held back the tide and actually reduced prices, while at the same time giving you more MG for your money. Prices start at just £13,995 and rise to only £17,995 so it's not surprising that MG is the fastest growing car

brand in Britain.

The new look is striking - and distinctive daytime LED running lights make the car stand out.

Inside the tremendously spacious cabin there are improved levels of comfort, convenience and quality.

It's hugely practical, well crafted and neatly laid out.

Vigorous development by engineers at MG's Birmingham operation on MG's own 1.9 150PS diesel engine, has reduced CO2 levels to 119g/km and improved fuel consumption to 61.4mpg.

Quite simply it's a lovely engine mated to a delightful six speed gearbox.

Smooth and punchy it's perfectly suited to the cars dynamic capability that is in keeping with

must know what its top speed is it's probably 125mph if you pedal hard.

Tidy handling means that it copes with bends and undulations with the deftness of the tip of one of Pablo's fabled brushes leaving an indelible mark on the consciousness: that 'je ne sais quoi' feeling of pure felicity.

Kids will clamour to be driven in it and swanky Parisienne Grande Dames will go weak at the knees at its sophistication.

With one of these as your family car you signify to the

world that you are a far-reaching, enterprising and out-going team of tenacious go-getters. The family of the future in other words.

Is the Grand Picasso a mere style excercise? Not a bit! This is the MPV that excercises style - pushing taste and practicality to unprecedented limits.

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 49

Skoda Fabia Estate SE L 1.2 TSI 110PS available for this estate but if you want one that gives you sufficient zest and liveliness to match the cars excellent dynamics, the petrol 1.2 TSI 110PS mated to the delightful six speed manual gearbox (The auto. DSG is available should you wish) is probably the best choice.

It's a lovely smooth and willing engine with muscular

The new, third generation, Skoda Fabia Estate is without doubt, already acknowledged as at the top of the small estate car class.

It's a democratically minded motor offering special access to a motoring experience of all-round versatility coupled with economy.

As a 'sixties' super spy might say - 'It's truly a fab car baby!' A tickety boo turnstile to premier league motoring - but at a price that brings a smile to the face.

In other words, at ÂŁ16,035 this 'top-of-the-range' SE L version is yours for less than the customary 'bung' and will keep on scoring with the family.

It proves that Skoda can produce a small estate which has brio and zest - call it what you will - yet at the same time meet stringent, self-imposed standards of detail design, build quality and structural integrity of granite - and offer real value and practicality too.

It certainly does all those things and more, striking a chord to be entertaining and unselfconsciously contemporary: the Fabia estate is most

characteristics that belie the small capacity. It's nippy enough to make you a happy driver as you whizz along B roads or motorways enjoying the essential tautness, agility, precise steering and secure roadholding - and not forgetting the good ride quality Near 125mph is surely more than enough for most choosers of this type of car and despite the

lively performance you get a 'real world' near 50 mpg overall. I've no doubt that Skodas very honest claim of 58.9mpg overall could be achieved with gentle driving.

There can be no doubt that the new Fabia Estate is a powerful and attractive player which will have rival manufacturers scratching their heads.

handling, relaxing long distance express.

'Is it safe?'

I should say so.

You get enough airbags to refloat the Titanic.

'Is there anything you don't like?' You ask. Well... yes there jolly well is. It is cursed with one of those infuriating

electric parking brakes.

A weeks use drove home to me the good sense of this sort of car. Eminently practical, oozing the versatility of a pentathlete and without the hurrahs and hullabaloos of seekers of sensation, motoring along was sensation enough. I found myself actually unwinding while unspooling the miles ahead. It was like a constantly unrolling carpet of exceedingly good quality. Mr. Kipling might decree that this VW is the motoring equivalent of having ones cake and eating it.

I envied those who would spend hours behind the wheel, for if there is a sweet spot to perpetual motion VW have found it.

impressive.

The interior has been updated to improve the feeling of style and quality and the general sensible design and control ergonomics make it easy to drive. You get 530 litres of luggage space with the rear seats in use and a whopping 1395 litres with the seats folded.

It's a comfortable and surprisingly spacious place to be with plenty of room for four people. (Five at a bit of a squash). The SE L specification is generous and includes cruise control, speed limiter, rear parking sensors and climate control.

There are several engine options

VW Passat Estate 2.0 TDi 150 SE Business 5Dr It's not often that one hears about 'double whammy wonders'. Today, as we reel from one disasterprone economy to another, the head is in such a spin, as spin doctors try to deliver a prescription for the pain and angst of twenty first century motoring.

So my relief was profound when I came across a car that is much more than the sum total of its parts - the ÂŁ26,665 VW Passat Business Estate: a Passat in its eighth incarnation.

It's a business class conveyance designed to serve multifunctional needs with the poise and precision of a deft maitre d'. Class oozes from the brilliantly integrated marriage of form and function that is so characteristic of this most enviable of manufacturers.

VW is indeed the architect of desirable delight when it comes to motoring. Everything fits, feels, opens and shuts as it should and the ingenious combination

of practical load carrying capacity of 650 litres (1780 with the seats down) with high levels of passenger comfort and refinement makes for a relaxed confidence of approach. This is much more than a simple estate car, appealing as it does, both to practical necessities and family pleasing prerogatives.

It looks as sharp as a smart business suit yet knocks spots off stuffy rivals with its classless sense of empowerment.

Eschewing cheap gimmicks and modish flashiness of style this VW, nonetheless, is demanding of respect: its lines are elegant yet without any touch of vulgar ostentation.

'But what's it like inside and what's it like to drive?' I hear you ask.

Well I'm pleased to report that inside the high perceived quality is backed by real top quality.

There's slightly more room than in the previous version and as

you settle on the comfy seats you notice that this 'Business' specified model is packed with convenience features. There's a big central touch screen for music, camera, action and a host of other things - and at the poke of a digit you can electronically select a driving mode from normal, mean spiritedly economical, to sporty - when every thing sharpens up a little bit. (But don't expect it to be like full afterburner on your Typhoon).

The lovely six speed gearbox is well suited to whichever mode thanks to the wide torque spread of the 148bhp 2.0 diesel that will smoothly fly you to 135/140mph, exhales cleanly at 109 g/km of CO2 and, we're told, returns 68.9mpg. (But you will get near 60mpg if you tootle - which you won't want to do - and the tank range is easily over 600 miles). So - it's a smooth, quiet, comfortable-riding, excellent

50 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

MG3 Style

Like the ever revivifying phoenix flame, the MG brand not only refuses to die but burnishes the motoring world with its peerless incandescence.

How many of todays sporty hatchbacks can boast a sporting pedigree? The answer is 'not many at all'.

A grand and exciting example of a golden exception to the rule is the MG3, in the hotly contested arena of hatchback hegemony.

Designed, engineered and assembled in the UK, but with all the nasty noxiousness of turning steel into car parts carried out by SAIC in China at low cost, so that England can still remain green and pleasant, it's no wonder that they are sold at a bargain price.

Older folk will need no reminder what MG stands for and younger drivers, when pressed, will recall that MG is a marque with sporting connections.

So it was that I pulled on my stringback driving gloves and stepped out expectantly with a gleaming, top-of-the-range, MG3 Style waiting for me to put to the test. 'What value at just under ÂŁ10,000. Breathtakingly so in this market sector' I thought. Cruise control, air conditioning, power windows, a good sound system, five doors and lots of space and 16" alloys to set off the quality appearance - and when I say quality I mean it, for it is very well made.

It's a neat, attractively designed five door hatchback with that little something that makes it rather special to behold. But, perhaps, it's just me because that MG badge has a lot to do with it - the venerable octagon, thankfully now redolent with oriental promise.

The question remains is whether it is competitive on the road. After all, lots of rivals do lots of things

is quietly in evidence too. This is an engine with a proper camchain so there will be no nasty surprises with a cheapo rubber band cambelt snapping.

Of course, no one can use public roads as a test track, but the chassis dynamics are so good that it could easily handle more power. I dreamed of bolting on a turbo and pouring nitro glycerine into the tank.

Thankfully there is no law yet against having fun and for those who remain young at heart the MG3 represents unstuffy, uninhibited fun. In keeping with the modern penchant for self-tailored customisation it has so many variations

in graphics available that it is a veritable candybox selection of motoring art. You can even be emblazoned with RAF roundels so that the ack ack batteries won't shoot you down.

The aim, I'm sure, is to banish grey conformity and turn the tedium of driving into an expansive indulgence of individualistic assertion.

I love the driving position, the rewarding drive and the sense of performance that - while wanting more power - is dynamic enough for most needs.

Everyone I met was eager to experience it and once they had, they emerged with sparkling eyes. After all, life is for living isn't it? And an MG is for driving. Roll all that into one and you have a splendid confection for most

near 60mpg in the real world.

It's clean breathing too - emitting just108 gm/km of co2.

Few cars will deliver you and your payload with such dash and panache. It's a sublime motorway cruiser in sixth gear and when twisty roads beckon it comes alive as you enjoy the slick gearbox and fine handling. You're treated to a confidence-inspiring combination of grunt and deportment. Smooth and responsive as a sinuous dancer with enough straight-line

momentum to startle an astronaut.

There is no doubt that given the carrying capacity it truly represents twenty first century space travel. This is not any old estate. This one belongs to the Baron and Baroness of Bravado who - in the politest way - sweep past 'the petit traffickers who curtsey to them and do them reverence'. (As that well-known car pundit William Shakespeare

tastes - combining as it does, retro chic with sustainability and a blend of pedigree, performance and practicality.

To motorists who respond to a touch of the unique, it has to be MG - the sporting marque pitched at the sensible end of the market.

You could do worse, but at the money you'd struggle to do better.

I raise my octagon-shaped whisky glass to an optimistic future for MG. (Health and safety note.

Charging ones glass must only be done once the car is tucked away for the night) With the new MG3 there is no limit to the units of fun you can enjoy.

The proof (70%) is self evident.

My advice to those in the market for a little hatchback is that MG just has to stand for 'must get'.

very well indeed and any car with an MG badge has to do all those things just that little bit better. It was evident from the start that this is a perky little car with delightful manners. The 106 PS 1.5 litre petrol engine propels it to 108mph. and a genuine overall 46 mpg is easily achieved in real world driving. It's not the zippiest of engines and in the finest MG tradition you can enjoy it best if you use the slick five speed gearbox to the full.

Interestingly, quality engineering

Mazda 6 2.2 150PS Sport Nav Tourer There's an old adage which tells us that 'If it aint broke, don't fix it'. In my view this applies most particularly to the estate car (or 'tourer'). A sensible concept if ever there was one.

Many novelty-seeking nomads, having had their heads turned by such exotic novelties as crossover carriages, are now realising the error of their ways. To put it simply, if practical motoring is your aim, an estate car will take you far along the road to perfection.

One of the latest which portrays

serious potential towards being one of the best Mazdas is the new Sport Nav Tourer: a lively, well equipped estate with sat nav, air con, cruise control, power seats...the list goes on.

Rivalling Ford, Audi, VW, Skoda and others, it's a functional family/business tourer designed to sweep away the blues. This Mazda is the magic broomstick with magic right down to its rubber souls - it's that nice to drive.

With such a good blend of practicality and performance it

manages to be at the top level of this hotly contested market niche - delivering a decisive argument on price, specification and stylishness. It's as elegant as a dapper dandy with the cut and thrust of a rampaging highwayman. The motto is not so much 'stand and deliver' as 'deliver outstanding'.

Nestling beneath the sleek bonnet of this eminently seductively styled machine is a 150PS 2.2 diesel of peerless 130mph punch and Judy-pleasing economy of

wrote).

For readers untutored in The Classics, that is to say that driving such a car puts much of the competition in the shade.

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 51

Hyundai i20 1.2 SE 84PS For those wanting a quality supermini at a competitive price, with a touch of the individualistic about its styling plus engineering as dependable as it is versatile, the new i20 is a candidate for top billing.

Rivalling Fiesta, Corsa, Polo and Fabia, it brings to the table a package that ticks all the boxes, with a spicy piquancy that's a product of the high class Hyundai menu. This is quality fare, fairly presented and nicely turned out.

An irresistible platter in other words. You can pay more for a supermini but you won't get much more than you get here. It would be wrong to describe it as an inspirational 'drivers car' for the keen enthusiast - but for ninety nine percent of users who just want comfort, reliability and an easy and relaxing car to drive the i20 is top drawer.

At only £12,725 the SE spec. with the 83bhp 1.2 petrol engine is one of the best small cars - with lots of pluses. As everyone is beginning to learn, cars don't come much

more reliable than Hyundais.

While the i20 was never designed for 'thrill-a-minute' motoring, I was excited to discover just how good this little car is, combining as it does, five doors, an accommodating interior with room for four adults in comfort, a decent sized boot, comfy seats, cruise control, air conditioning and a host of other worthwhile features to aid convenience and safety.

This is a well integrated model that can do so many things so well. As a handy family workhorse it brooks no nay sayers - but open its lively potential and it will gallop off down the home straight. In short it's a safe bet - an important consideration today.

With a top speed of around 105mph, a combined fuel consumption of over 55mpg (which REALLY is quite easily achievable) and emissions of just 119gm/km it's up there with the best.

It's a taut little performer on all kinds of roads - with a zesty

perkiness to the reassuringly predictable road manners. Ride quality is excellent and the cabin is well insulated from the bumps and shocks resulting from decaying road surfaces. In fact - driven gently - it's one of the quietest cars in its class. The sort of car that, one might say, puts the 'super' in supermini to give us an appealing 'go-anywhere' car representing a passport to freedom and very quickly establishing itself as a drivers friend.

Here is the perfect servant or companion that will help you to negotiate todays stressfull world in a stress-free manner.

The many jolly user-friendly little touches that Hyundai have incorporated into this car have a built-in endearment factor.

Not only that, for peace of mind there's that doubly enticing five year, unlimited mileage, warranty - which means that ownership is underpinned by cast iron dependability.

Carsure Of Rotherham Here at CarSure of Rotherham our aim is to make sure that buying your next used car is as simple and as smooth as possible. We appreciate that buying the right car is an important decision and WE CAN HELP!

finance package for your car.

Part Exchange your Old Car - Carsure Of Rotherham also offer a Part Exchange service, allowing customers to cover part of the cost of their new car by trading in their old one.

What we offer at CarSure of Rotherham

Directions, opening hours and telephone numbers are available on our Contact Us page.

• • • • • • • • • • •

Indoor showroom Quality used cars at affordable prices Excellent customer service Cost effective finance packages A friendly, knowledgeable no-pressure sales team Viewings by appointment to give you our full attention Good honest advice Makes and models from top manufacturers Generous part exchange allowances Value for money Car Locator service

Carsure of Rotherham is a highly respected used car dealer in the local area. We are extremely proud of our good reputation for giving value for money and excellent customer service. It is always a pleasure to deal with past customers and of course we welcome the opportunity to meet new customers. We have a wide range of quality used cars to suit all of your needs and our personal service means that you can trust us to provide you with the right car.

Finance your Used Car - Carsure Of Rotherham can offer a wide range of financial packages tailored to suit your personal requirements. You can be assured of gaining the most cost effective

At Carsure Of Rotherham, we pride ourselves on giving you the best advice possible with a friendly service when buying one of our quality used cars. Our reputation speaks for itself with a large proportion of our used car sales being to repeat customers. We offer a wide range of quality used cars at affordable prices. Our existing customers appreciate the way we do business, and we know you will too.

Carsure Of Rotherham We are a second hand car dealer based in Rotherham, South Yorkshire with over 35 years experience in the motor trade.

We offer quality used cars, and the after sales service to match. With a wide range of stock, we're sure we can find something suitable for you to drive away with a smile on your face!

We are licensed credit brokers and can arrange finance on all of our vehicles, subject to status.

Our fantastic, innovative PAY AS YOU DRIVE finance deals could be just the ticket if you have bad credit but still want the keys to a new motor!

Here at CarSure of Rotherham our aim is to make sure that buying your next used car is as simple and as smooth as possible.

What we offer at CarSure of Rotherham: > Indoor showroom > Quality used cars at affordable prices > Excellent customer service > Cost effective finance packages > A friendly, knowledgeable no-pressure sales team > Viewings by appointment to give you our full attention > Good honest advice > Makes and models from top manufacturers > Generous part exchange allowances > Value for money

Contact us on: T: 07801 695045 W: www.carsure-rotherham.co.uk Carsure Of Rotherham, Unit 1 and 2, Block B, Aven Enterprise Park, Maltby, Rotherham, South Yorkshire, S66 7QR

52 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

Suzuki Celerio conditioning, electric windows, a DAB radio, Bluetooth connectivity and attractive alloy wheels to help with kerb appeal. Interior fixtures and fittings are of good quality and everything is well assembled and appears to be durable.

Well-travelled roads transform themselves with the Celerio's alchemical touch. It is a distillation of fine engineering, appealing style, zippy potential and pocketpleasing parsimoniousness. The 68bhp 1.0 litre 3 cylinder engine packs enough poke to let you breeze along in merry fashion.

The only thing you won't need to keep a close eye on is the location of petrol stations for tne

Stick with a Celerio and your neighbours will be green with envy - for Suzuki have brought back fun to the urban commuter grind with a zesty little city car that sparkles with good ideas and represents a refreshing way to get from A to B and back again.

With increasing urbanisation, the city car concept is here to stay. From Tokyo to Telford, to Southampton to Sapporo it's the way of the world - and will be for a long time to come, no doubt.

And when it comes to nimble city street charmers, no manufacturer does it better than Suzuki. The Celerio is everything you could want in a commuter carriage and more. It ticks so many boxes that you really need a container vessel to carry them all.

So - on an overcast Sunday morning in late Spring my little blue test car shone in the hotel car park like an endless summer: the Celerio just radiates celerity.

You feel the urge to get out, get in the car and get going.

Leaping onto the seats is an easy matter whether you're an eager young beaver being run to school or a crotchety old clerk with stiffening limbs. Those in the know, know for sure that there is no refinement like plenty of space - and with the Celerio, Suzuki

one thing the Celerio lacks is a thirst. Potter around the parish like the Parson and I'll wager you could see between 75mpg and 80mpg. It's a city swinger, in other words, with an eye on the balance sheet - and while I found it to be an exquisite city car, in the interests of a thorough appraisal I took to the open road.

My experience showed what an excellent tourer it also proves to be - offering a relaxing fussfree drive with never anything to worry about except the ubiquitous roadworks. Happy to hold a good rate of knots with its unburstable engine kept on the boil using the excellent five speed gearbox, (An

'Auto Gear Shift' will be available soon) you enjoy secure handling and a good ride.

As the miles unfolded I failed to detect any stiffening of limbs - so comfortable was it. I commented on this to my passenger only to discover that she had fallen asleep - the sweet snooze of a Suzuki passenger. So rewarding was the driving that I could scarcely believe my eyes when our destination was reached.

'So soon' I thought to myself.

'So Suzuki!' And that puts it in a nutshell. Here you have an aspirational peoples car offering premier potential and sovereign serendipity.

effortlessly at low revs in sixth gear making motorway miles fly by.

Wind noise is almost imperceptible and road noise is muted too.

'I bet such a large car is a handful on twisty, badly surfaced minor roads' I hear you say. Not a bit of it. Its nimbleness belies the size and in addition to handling responsively, it rides well too.

Impressive without being showy,

canny without being a smarty pants, it's a sensible punt for both fleet and private buyers in uncertain times.

reward the commuter with lots of it.

The beauty, to my mind, is the accommodating headroom and excellent all-round visibility that are a consequence of a design brief that sees customers sitting up high. That's not to say that behind the wheel you won't feel dwarfed by The Shard but you'll certainly feel high and mighty compared to those in less elevated vehicles. It's a five door, of course, and you can even sit three adults in the back if needs be. All this has not been at the expense of luggage space though, because the boot is biggest in class.

Where the Celerio really scores is in what's included for such a small outlay. At just ÂŁ7,999 for the SZ3 it's outstanding value. There's air

Ford Mondeo Titanium Estate 2.0 Duratorq 6 speed Whisper it - nay! Shout it from the rooftops. The estate car is making a grand comeback. For too long now its unassailable virtues have been overshadowed by the spurious novelty of 'crossover' cars and such-like gimmicks. With an estate you know what you're going to get from the get go - and when the manufacturer is Ford, confidence is assured.

Here is a dependable vehicle as versatile as a chirpy chameleon busying itself to bless you with poise, pace and utter pulchritude.

Within those subtly styled contours an amazing amount of practical space has been contoured to climactic perfection.

'Swing a cat Sir?' You could swing a thousand pussycats within this car by mile long tails and still have room for a flask of coffee.

It's a long car and so there's lots of legroom for rear passengers.

Take out the passengers, fold the seatbacks flat and you have a cargo carrying facility to tempt the Eddie Stobart team.

If, like me, you've often fancied yourself as an estate owner - why wait? Gumboots are cheap, but this car is a sheer marvel at the price of ÂŁ24,745. You'll be ready to form an alliance with it right away and won't have to entertain any niggling compromises.

Its manifesto is plain: pure

practicality allied to economy and unsurpassed comfort for a vehicle in its class.

At the wheel you enjoy an excellent driving position, real comfort on the sports seat and almost perfect ergonomics. You'd be hard-pressed to improve on an interior like this - constructed, as it is, from high grade materials.

I felt so relaxed and comfortable that I would have welcomed a Continental cruise of a 1000 miles - and even as I settled for a quick spin up the motorway to the highlands of Huddersfield I felt no compunction in declaring to my passenger that this Ford would even bring a smile to the face of

a Yorkshire poet caught in a 'force eight' high on a Pennine ridge.

Heathcliff would have considered this car a 'belter' - just perfect for his wandering ways. Yes, I admit the Mondeo Estate brings out the gypsy in my soul.

It's a road-rider for the twenty first century with an excellent 150PS 2.0 litre diesel engine that's one of the best in the class. It will take you to 130mph if you're silly enough, yet will return a claimed 62.8mpg overall and hardly pollutes the world with it's healthy 119 CO2 g/km exhaust. Its real strength is its ability to lope along

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 53

Holidays www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk

Why Fly? For free Wi-Fi! Free Wi-Fi tops list for most desired hotel amenity

Wi-Fi is the most popular hotel amenity in the world, a global report conducted by Hotels.com today reveals. With almost a third (30%) of global travellers (both business and leisure) choosing free Wi-Fi as their top facility, it seems gone are the days of mini-bars and an on-site spa. The UK results showed over a quarter (28%) of Brits prefer free WiFi, ahead of a free breakfast (16%).

The global survey of almost 5,000* respondents found that complimentary breakfast has been knocked off last year’s top spot to second place with 21% of the global vote, but it is the top nontech must-have amenity, with over a quarter (27%) of global travellers wishing it was included when booking a hotel stay. Only a miniscule 3% of global respondents said they would go without free breakfast in order to pay less for their hotel stay, whilst 15% of penny pinching Brits would prefer to cut it out in order to make a saving.

Free parking remained in third place for another year with one in ten (10%) choosing this facility, beating

swimming pool facilities (8%), on-site restaurants and room service offerings, achieving only 3% and 2% respectively.

Surprisingly, mini-bars are the hotel feature voted most disappointing with nearly a quarter (24%) believing this is the top amenity that isn’t worth the hype. This is followed by a turndown service, receiving 13% of the global vote.

Brits still seem hooked on that traditional English breakfast, with meats such as bacon and sausages coming in at a high 46% when looking at food offerings, while only 20% chose the healthier option of fresh fruit.

Carolina Annand of the Hotels.com brand said “It is interesting to see how important technology is to hotel guests these days, and with society relying on email, messenger tools and websites to stay connected when abroad , it looks as if more traditional amenities such as the mini bar and room service are falling out of favour with guests.”

Top ten most popular global hotel amenities:

Top ten most popular UK hotel amenities:

Amenity

Percentage

1

Free Wi-Fi

30%

2

Breakfast

3

Amenity

Percentage

1

Free Wi-Fi

28%

21%

2

Breakfast

16%

Free Parking

10%

3

Free Parking

15%

4

Swimming Pool

8%

4

In room tea/coffee maker

13%

5

Luxury Mattress

7%

5

Swimming Pool

9%

6

In room tea/coffee maker

5%

6

On site restaurant

5%

7

On site restaurant

3%

7

High end linens

3%

7=

High end linens

3%

7=

Hair dryer

3%

7=

Hair dryer

3%

7=

Luxury Mattress

3%

10

Room Service

2%

10

Child care options

1%

Springs Holiday Estates

Springs Holiday Estates is the UK’s leading holiday destination in Sutton-on-Sea. With a choice of four very different but equally stunning caravan parks to visit, holiday-makers are spoilt for choice. If you like exquisite fauna, then Sutton Springs Holiday Park is highly recommended, where colourful blooms light up the garden and your vacation. If idyllic beaches are more your thing, then choose Anderby Springs

Holiday Park which has an estate within a stone’s throw of miles of soft golden sand. For fishing enthusiasts there is Lakeside Springs Holiday Park which houses an impressive seven acre fishing lake, whilst Trusthorpe Springs Holiday Park set in the beautiful grounds of Trusthorpe Hall, accommodates an outdoor heated swimming pool for your delectation.

Spacious and beautifully furnished caravans are available for sale and to let, whilst a seven day Reception ensures holiday-makers receive the best customer service at all times. Each rental caravan is fully equipped with TV, microwave and kitchen utensils. If you really want a break from the kitchen, you can dine at either The Creek Tavern or Cartwheel Club serving delicious breakfasts and succulent Sunday carveries.

Stop dreaming of that summer holiday and get it booked by calling Springs Holiday Estates now on 01507 441 333.

Villa Mimosa 3 Bedroom Villa With Private Pool And Views Over e Mountains & Akamas Coast.

Mimosa is a great value 3 bedroom villa in a fantastic location with breathtaking views. e house is in an elevated position on the winding road from Polis to the mountain village of Lysos and close to the villages of Steni and Peristerona. e views over the Evruoto Dam are outstanding and in the other direction there are views over the olive and citrus groves to the Akamas coastline and the Blue Lagoon. e house is in the mountain village of Peristerona, which is famous for maintaining the beauty and traditions of Cyprus.e soft, undulating hills are covered in vines, olive trees, wild owers and herbs. We highly recommended taking the old road from Peristerona to Lysos village and then down to Pelathousa and on to Polis -the drive is absolutely beautiful.

• Sleeps: 6 • Bedrooms: 3 • Bathroom: 2 • Property type: house • Minimum Stay: 7 nights For more information contact owner, Carrie King on (UK)+44 02032868330 or visit us on www.cyprusescapes.villas

www.springsholidayestates.co.uk Email: suuonsprings@btconnect.com

We have 4 beauuful caravan holiday parks which offer a wide variety of aaraccons; set on the east coast of Lincolnshire just a short distance away from the rolling Lincolnshire Wolds: Suuon Springs – with its quarter mile of beach frontage along the promenade.

Trusthorpe Springs – with a heated swimming pool the Park is set around the grounds of Trusthorpe Hall. Tourers are welcome and leeng vans are available.

Lakeside Springs – with its well stocked fishing lake. Tourers and tents are welcome and leeng vans are available.

Anderby Springs – is a quite “get-away from it all” locaaon that’s just a short stroll from the beach.

Three of our Parks have licensed Clubhouses which provide Th entertainment and a great atmosphere to relax with friends; new and old.

We offer an extended season in some of our Parks and sell superb quality new and part new holiday homes sited on a vacant pitch of your choice Main Office, Suuon Springs, Suuon Rd, Mablethorpe, Lincs, LN12 2PZ Tel: 01507 441333

54 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

Golf Holidays www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk

La Grange, Lolivarie near Siorac is the perfect golfing getaway in the Dordogne.

The charming, renovated barn is set on private grounds with the Golf de Lolivarie course a stone’s throw away.

A vacation is perhaps the only time to get some much deserved R&R and there is no better way to let off steam than to tee off and enjoy the spectacular views and lush greenery of the course.

Keen golfers need only walk a few yards from the

Barn to access the superb 18 hole golf course that boasts clear, short-cut fairways, water and trees. The Golf de Lolivarie course is set in stunning parkland and is one the most picturesque golf courses in the region. Non-golfing spectators meanwhile can stay on the property and watch from the Barn overlooking Hole 7.

For intrepid golfers who want to incorporate some travel into their day, a 9 hole golf course lies one kilometre away. Short and narrow, it is packed with interesting features guaranteed to challenge the most seasoned of golfers.

Why wait? Get booked onto your golfing holiday with a difference.

Check out www.barn-dordogne.com for more information about La Grange Lolivarie 24170, or call Barry now on 0791 959 3902.

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 55

The Pau Golf Club

The beautiful and heritage rich Pau Golf Club is the oldest club in continental Europe.

Established in 1856, the Pau Golf Club is home to an outstanding golf course popular with golfers all year round.

The 18 hole course lies in a lush tree-lined, expansive parkland making it the perfect place to tee off. The delicately undulating terrain is ideal for a gentle game of golf, making walking across the golf course fun and enjoyable in equal measure.

Historically, the land was mud-free even in the slushy winter months, meaning optimum conditions arose for the birth of the ideal golf course. A number of world renowned architects have added to the unique design, making it all the more special, including architect Willie Dunn of Scotland.

The Pau Golf Club has excellent facilities including a Clubhouse and Pro Shop. If you wanted to give your opponents time to catch their breath, you can

all congregate at The Bar and Restaurant, which serves delicious, home-cooked food from a diverse menu.

The Pau Golf Club takes golfing very seriously and likes to see golfers grow and hone their skills.

Their Golf School is run by certified state instructors Philippe Heugas and Dominique Loustalet who train nearly 100 young golfers each week. Under the expert eyes of Heugas and Loustalet, some of the young golfers have gone on to become champions, including Stephanie Arricau who was Pro 10th European player in 2003. This wonderful achievement is what makes the Pau Golf Club a proud institution where golfers young and old return time and time again.

This is a course like no other, which golfers enjoy playing, making it perfect for novices and expert golfers alike. Be prepared for a treasured, rare and privileged game at the Pau Golf Club because you deserve only the best.

56 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

Lundin Golf Course.

Lundin Golf Course

St. Andrews Golf Course

Lundin Links is in close proximity to the famous St Andrews and is well known throughout the golfing world as a course of outstanding quality. Founded nearly 150 years ago on a Tom Morris course, this exceptional golf course is all the more special, having been extensively redesigned by five times Open Champion James Braid. A golfing mind certainly who knows how to deliver on the green, and the undulating, feature-packed 18 hole course ensures a challenging and fun game is on the cards.

There is something for everyone, from seasoned golfers to novices. Burns and bunkers ensure a stimulating, challenging game for golfers of all levels, whilst fine links fairways and excellent greens ensure its year-round popularity. Its regular selection as a final qualifying golf course for the Open Championship has cemented its reputation of being a world-class golf course and the perfect place to tee off.

The heritage rich St. Andrews Links is over 600 years’ old and now sees over 230,000 rounds played over seven public courses. St Andrews is world renowned, as hundreds of golfers flock there every year for golfing glitz and to play the best game of golf of their life. Follow in the footsteps of legends and tee off on the Old Course as you take in the iconic Swilcan Bridge and Hell Bunker. For a contemporary twist, check out the Castle Course which is the newest addition to St. Andrew’s Links where you can enjoy spectacular views from the rugged cliff-top.

St Andrews Links also boasts a golf academy, three gorgeous club-houses dishing up delicious food and the oldest golf shop in the world. St. Andrews Links takes care of its courses ensuring they’re always in impeccable condition using only sustainable methods. They also encourage young golfers by providing free golf through SALIGA, which is a Junior Golf programme.

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 57

House in Julienne The property is located in the lovely village of Julienne, with the towns of Jarnac and Cognac in close proximity. The view overlooking the local vineyards and down the valley towards the Charent is delightful and picturesque.

The house is well equipped, the perfect home from home and the ideal location to relax and enjoy the local amenities. Wonderfully cosmopolitan, the area is lively and dynamic with everything from jazz and food festivals to keep you entertained. If you like the outdoors, then indulge in kayaking, horse riding, trips to the Cognac distilleries, cycle trails and myriad excellent restaurants in the area.

Limestone Cottage The house is a striking, traditional four square limestone cottage with an added expansive conservatory. The house has been renovated to preserve many of its original features. Most of the rooms boast wooden beams and limestone walls.

The property is wonderfully secluded and safe, being surrounded by limestone walls and hedges.

The back gates lead onto a shared drive with the neighbours who are very friendly. The house’s positioning means sunshine all day long with seating areas on both sides so that you can catch some rays.

The pool is a firm favourite with residents, who have

Country House This delightful country property is furnished to provide all home comforts in a beautiful setting surrounded by vineyards and mature woodland.

Boasting five bedrooms and accommodating 11 people the house is within walking distance of the beautiful Charente River.

The stunning property certainly has a wow factor.

It is built on two levels with an upper floor which consists of a large living area with open fire and doors opening onto a poolside terrace, perfect for

The house is approximately four minutes away from the beautiful 74 par Golf de Cognac course meaning you can tee off to blow off some steam if you wish.

With easy access from the airports of Bordeax, La Rochelle and Limoges, reaching your next holiday destination couldn’t be easier.

The house benefits from being situated in the stunning Charente, which is considered to be the second sunniest region in France (reflected of course by the prolific production of Cognac and local wines). From Julienne there is easy access to historic towns like Angouleme, Cognac. Many of the towns have ancient abbeys, which make for a lovely stroll after dinner, or maybe you can catch a burnished sunset over the beautiful architecture.

a comfortable seating area for adults and a shallow beach spot where children can paddle. The pool alarm ensures the safety of younger residents and peace of mind.

The village is in a beautifully tranquil setting at the end of a lane surrounded by vineyards and sunflower fields. The whole area is dedicated to Cognac and wine-making and residents can sip on delicious local drinks called Pineau. The village itself is a five minute drive from Jarnac where all the local amenities are situated. The house is approximately four minutes away from Golf de Cognac and half an hour from the major course at Angouleme which is a 72 par. With Wi-Fi available, you will be connected at all times and be able to snap gorgeous photos for social media to be the envy of your friends. taking a leisurely dip in the afternoon.

The garden can be accessed through patio doors and consists of lush greenery, fruit trees and shaded areas to cool off in the summer sun. The lower garden is terraced and goes downhill; to one side there is a bird-watching hut. This area of the garden is fenced off but there is a key available should you wish to access the area and it is recommended that children be supervised due to the steep terrace.

The property is secure with mature hedges and is accessed by a drive with security gates. The property is exquisitely exclusive, very private and peaceful – the ideal getaway for some uninterrupted R&R as you recharge your batteries.

58 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

Russell Grants Monthly Horoscopes June 2015

ARIES March 21st - April 20th Travel plans will be cancelled in early June, thanks to a stressful Full Moon. This change of plans is actually a blessing in disguise, only it won’t feel like one if you have to pay a stiff cancellation penalty. Breathe deep and know the Universe has bigger and better plans for you. A surprising email or phone call will prompt you to do some research. You may not have any interest in this subject at first, but will develop a real passion for it as your knowledge and know how grows. It will be much easier to make plans and negotiate deals at midmonth. Postpone any heavy decisions until June is halfway through. The New Moon on the 16th prompts you to take a trip for pleasure. If you’re not in love, you will find it on your travels. Good luck arrives through your social network near the end of the month giving you more time to spend at home with friends and family.

TAURUS April 21st - May 21st The early days of June bring an end to a source of unearned income. You won’t be able to rely on an insurance payment, grant, or scholarship any longer. Fortunately, family is poised to close the gap. Pooling your resources will help you overcome this temporary shortfall. The New Moon on the 16th is ideal for landing a good job. Seek opportunities related to teaching, writing, or travel. A relative will tip you off to a great position before it is officially advertised. Have your CV ready for submission. If you’re looking for a place to live, search neighbourhoods that are off the beaten path. You’ll find a great home that’s actually quite close to your job. The surroundings will be unconventional, but who cares? The price will be great, giving you more money to decorate. If there’s anything you enjoy, it’s transforming a drab environment into a beautiful showplace.

GEMINI May 22nd - June 21st The Full Moon on the 2nd marks the final phase of an intimate relationship. It’s important to gain a greater measure of independence this month. You’ll garner all sorts of favourable publicity during the first half of June. This is a great time to show off your expertise while updating your skill set. Taking a class will prove enjoyable. It will be much easier to get the information you need from a big bureaucracy on the 11th. Be sure to initiate a creative project at mid-month; this endeavour will bring both fame and acclaim. The New Moon on the 16th is perfect for updating your look. Change your hair or add some up to the minute outfits to your wardrobe. A friend will ask you to accompany them on their holiday towards the end of June. Be sure to accept this generous offer. You’ll spend a little more money than usual, but you’re overdue for a splurge.

CANCER June 22nd - July 23rd The Full Moon on the 2nd reveals a health problem. You might have to consult more than one medical professional to get the proper diagnosis. Be patient. Ask friends for doctor recommendations. Someone who has suffered a similar complaint may have a good suggestion. It may be necessary to cancel some holiday plans in the first half of June, due to unforeseen circumstances. Don’t despair. You’ll be able to reschedule a much nicer trip later in the season. The New Moon on the 16th prompts you to take up a spiritual practice. This ritual will give you an extra measure of peace and contentment. It will also remind you to spend more time on the activities that make life meaningful. An exciting moneymaking opportunity will arrive towards the end of the month. There will be more money for luxuries as June turns into July. Go ahead and splurge on some beautiful artwork and furnishings for your home.

LEO July 24th - August 23rd The Full Moon on the 2nd forces you to put your foot down with demanding people. You’ve been devoting all of your attention to other people’s needs and it has been exhausting. Take this opportunity to go on holiday or buy yourself some luxuries. If this causes an argument, so be it. You’re not the type who can withstand long periods of deprivation. The first half of June is ideal for getting cosmetic treatments of every description. Change your hairstyle, update your wardrobe, get a cosmetic procedure, or do all three. You’ll be very pleased with the results. Working as part of a team will yield terrific ideas at mid-month. The New Moon on the 16th is ideal for networking. Be sure to attend a business conference or party, as you’ll make some influential contacts. A surprising opportunity to teach, write, or travel for money will fall into your lap by the end of June.

VIRGO August 24th - September 23rd The Full Moon on the 2nd makes family life stressful. Your relatives aren’t happy with certain choices you’ve made and will be vocal in their disapproval. Fortunately, your personal appeal will be very strong at this time, allowing you to win support from other circles. It may be necessary to revise travel plans on or around the 11th. Be as flexible as possible and prepare to pay a penalty fee for a cancellation. You’ll realise a career ambition at mid-month, causing everyone to envy and admire you. The New Moon on the 16th is perfect for changing your look. Your updated image will open new doors for you, both personally and professionally.

An unexpected work assignment proves both lucrative and enjoyable. This is your big chance to show off your creative side. This marks a wonderful new phase of your career, which will involve rubbing elbows with prominent business executives.

LIBRA September 24th - October 23rd The Full Moon on the 2nd piles more work on your plate. It will be difficult to accomplish everything on your ‘to do’ list, but try anyway. An authority figure won’t be very sympathetic about your plight. Don’t let their insensitive attitude spoil the day. Family proves wonderfully understanding and will do their best to make life easier in early June. If a relative offers to babysit or run errands, be sure to accept. Positive feedback about an academic or writing project is music to your ears in mid-June. Go out and celebrate with friends.

The New Moon on the 16th prompts you to venture into unfamiliar territory. This is a great time to study a language or take up a musical instrument. A platonic relationship could turn into a passionate romance during the closing days of June. You’ll be amazed at how physically compatible you and this friend are.

SCORPIO October 24th - November 22nd The Full Moon on the 2nd brings an end to a source of income. This situation is incredibly unfair, but you won’t be able to reverse it. The best thing you can do is look for a new job. Opportunities related to art, fashion, cosmetics and entertainment are strongly featured. No matter what sort of work you are seeking, it is important to dress professionally on job interviews. If you are offered a position with a low salary in midJune, negotiate for more annual leave. The New Moon on the 16th allows you to pay off a long standing debt. Once you are free of this burden, you can spend more time on creative pursuits. Fashion design, painting and jewellery making are activities that will offer you lots of emotional fulfilment. Your work will attract the attention of a respected artist or critic at the end of June. Be sure to display the fruits of your labour at every opportunity.

SAGITTARIUS November 23rd - December 21st The Full Moon on the 2nd finds you facing off with a pushy partner. You simply must stand your ground regarding a personal boundary. You’re very generous by nature, but you can’t continue giving everything away at the expense of your own health. Fortunately, a compassionate mediator will come forward to negotiate a more balanced arrangement. Look for good deals on holiday packages on the 8th, when you’ll be able to reserve a nice hotel room for a terrific price. It will be necessary to make some adjustments to your household in mid-June, when family obligations wreak havoc with your sleeping schedule. The New Moon on the 16th is perfect for signing a contract or embarking on a serious romance. Your expert knowledge gives you a greater measure of freedom towards the end of June. Be willing to demand a schedule that works for you, even if it means your colleagues will get second choice.

CAPRICORN December 22nd - January 20th The Full Moon on the 2nd brings an embarrassing secret to light. Go ahead and admit a mistake to your colleagues. They’ll respect your honesty. People will seek your professional advice during the first half of June, which is gratifying. If you aren’t running a consultancy business, you probably should. The New Moon on the 16th attracts an intellectually stimulating job. Although the pay won’t be terribly impressive, you will enjoy developing and discussing ideas with students. This is also a good way to establish your reputation in the academic community. Don’t be surprised when your boss unexpectedly offers you ticket to an exclusive event on the 21st. You’ll have a wonderful time rubbing elbows with community leaders. Be sure to wear something special to this glittering occasion. If you’re not in a relationship, you will meet someone special here. Keep your ears open for someone with a sexy accent.

AQUARIUS January 21st - February 19th The Full Moon on the 2nd forces you to stop what you’re doing and come to a friend’s rescue. If their troublesome behaviour has become a trend, you need to re-examine this relationship. You’ll be brimming with energy throughout the first half of June. Take this opportunity to get more exercise. Being cooped up in an office building all day will really put a downer on you. Outdoor activities like hiking, biking, walking and running are all great possibilities. The New Moon on the 16th is suffused with romance. If you’re single, you will meet someone special at a cultural or educational gathering. Are you in a relationship? Your amour will get a big award or prize and you’ll indirectly benefit from their good fortune. You’ll have the power to make a cherished dream come true on the 21st. Don’t turn down a well intentioned and generous offer of help. This is the Universe’s way of nudging you towards victory.

PISCES February 20th - March 20th The Full Moon on the 2nd prompts you to question certain career choices. You’re tired of having no time for a personal life. Fortunately, a rewarding job that allows you to work from home is on the horizon. Be ready to accept such a position on or around the 6th. It will be easy to resolve domestic problems in mid-June, when roommates and relatives have a better sense of their schedules. The 14th is perfect for launching a DIY household repair job. If you’re worried about money, the New Moon on the 16th will bring extra funds.

Your artistic talent will generate lots more income during the second half of June. Put this money towards improving your existing home or putting a deposit on a place. It’s so important for you to have a haven from the professional world. Take this opportunity to create an abode that allows you to rest, relax and rejuvenate.

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 59

Sport

www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk

Derby’s velodrome will hold its first major cycling event.

Joanna Rowsell trying out the new track.

OLYMPIC HOPEFULS HEAD FOR ARENA

Olympic gold medallist Joanna Rowsell.

The elite of British track cyclists are heading for the velodrome in the new Derby Arena as the first step towards the Rio Olympics.

The Arena is to host the opening round of the 2015-16 Revolution Series, the UK's leading track cycling competition, between 14–16 August and will be the first major cycling event to be hosted at the Arena. It will be an important opportunity for the Team GB riders to gain UCI qualification points ahead of the next Olympics in Rio 2016. Riders need to get 90 UCI track ranking points by September to qualify to race in the World Cup series this winter, through which they can obtain Olympic qualification points, British Cycling’s endurance

Head Coach Heiko Salzwedel confirmed the importance of the Derby event saying “We’ll be using Derby as an important opportunity to score qualification points ahead of the UCI deadline so we are pleased to be able to do this in the UK.” The racing will feature the UKs leading male and female cycling stars and will take place across four sessions. Schedule and race highlights will include the following: Session 1: Friday 14 August, 19:00-22:00 – Team Pursuit, Keirin Session 2: Saturday 15 August, 13:00-16:00 – Omnium (Men and Women) Session 3: Saturday 15 August, 19:00-22:00 – Omnium, Individual Pursuit, Revolution Longest Lap Session 4: Sunday 16 August, 12:00-16:30 – Omnium, Sprint Finals, Madison “I’m extremely pleased Derby’s new world class venue will host the premier round of the 201516 Revolution Series, bringing competitive elite track cycling to the Midlands for the very first time,” said Derby City Council, leader Councillor Ranjit Banwait.

“Spectators at the UK’s first Olympic Legacy project will be able to see Britain’s leading cyclists battle it out as they try

and secure points in the first step to qualifying on the road to Rio. It is great news that the Arena is already starting to attract high profile events, such as this to Derby.”

Tickets for this event have already gone on sale and are available from as little as £10.

The Revolution Series aims to provide a competitive environment for Britain’s most talented track cyclists, and to provide fans with thrilling, worldclass cycling entertainment. Sir Chris Hoy, Sir Bradley Wiggins, Mark Cavendish MBE, Victoria Pendleton CBE, Laura Trott OBE and Marianne Vos are some of the world famous names to have ridden at the Revolution Series in the past.

Joanna Rowsell, 2012 gold medal winner in the women’s team pursuit, is just one of the stars likely to be heading to the event.

She recently visited the Arena to conduct a master class at an open day, and was impressed with what she saw. “It looks fantastic,” she said. “It’s nice to see a venue like this being built, not for a Commonwealth Games or Olympic Games, like London or Glasgow, but as a venue to be used by the public and the community. It looks like one of the best we’ve got in the country.”

60 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

FORMULA E: PIQUET TAKES A NARROW eLEAD Nelson Piquet Jr has taken a narrow lead in the inaugural FIA Formula e championship as the season heads into the closing stages.

With just three races remaining of the FIA’s all-electric series, which is based at Donington Park, the Brazilian is now 2 points clear of Sebastian Buemi.

In 1980 Nelson Piquet (senior) took his first Formula 1 victory at the California street circuit of Long Beach. 35 years later, Nelson Jr, took his first Formula e win on the same classic circuit.

As he crossed the line, Piquet Jr was heard to say, over the radio to his team: “It was my father’s first one, now it’s my first one, and we’re going to have several others.”

The Long Beach ePrix, Round 6 in early April, saw Piquet Jr (China Racing) make an incredible start to lead from the second row of the grid. The short run from the line leads to a chicane and, with pole sitter Daniel Abt (Audi Sport Abt) appearing to have an eye on fellow front row man Nicolas Prost (e.dams-Renault), Piquet Jr did not need to be asked twice when Abt left a small gap.

Piquet’s lead never looked threatened, despite a safety car period when he made a clean break at the restart. Jean –Eric Vergne (Andretti Autosport) emerged in second place after the pit stops, ahead of Abt, and Lucas di Grassi (Audi Sport Abt) who

was handed third place when Abt received a penalty for exceeding permitted power usage.

Piquet backed off on the final lap and the margin of 1.7 seconds over Vergne rather flattered the runner-up.

The series then moved to Europe and a short version of the classic Monaco Street circuit. There was carnage on the opening lap with several drivers out, but pole man Sebastian Buemi (e.damsRenault) was clear and became the first pole sitter to go on and take a Formula e victory. He was also the first driver to take two wins in the season. Di Grassi retained his championship lead with second place, while Piquet Jr’s third place brought him ever closer.

Round 8 was laid out on the disused Tempelhof airfield in Berlin. While di Grassi opened up a huge lead, around a second per lap in the early stages, there was plenty of close racing and overtaking behind, helped by the circuit being wider than many of the tight street circuits.

Di Grassi thought he had extended his championship lead when he took the chequered flag for the second time this season, but post-race scrutineering showed his front wing had been modified,

Sebastian Buemi heads for victory on the streets of Monaco. against the rules of Formula e. The Abt team said it was a result of repairs to damage and no advantage had been gained, but the stewards disagreed and disqualified di Grassi.

Jerome D’Ambrosio (Dragon Racing), therefore, became the seventh winner in eight races, ahead of Buemi and his Dragon team mate Loic Duval. Piquet eeked out an extra lap before the pit stops which gave him more power left for the closing laps. He

used this to great effect to work up to an eventual fourth, enough to give him a slender lead, 103 points to Buemi’s 101. Di Grassi is now third on 93 points.

The series now heads to Moscow (6th June) before the London finale, two races in Battersea Park on 27th and 28th June.

Visit fiaformulae.com for more information and to purchase tickets with prices starting from £22.40.

Nelson Piquet won in Long Beach and now leads the series.

Long Beach podium: Jean-Eric Vergne (second), Nelson Piquet Jr (first) and Lucas di Grassi (third).

Jerome D’Ambrosio was delighted with his first podium that became a win.

Jean-Eric Vergne was one of several casualties in Monaco.

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 61

CLEMENT FAVOURITE FOR RAMS JOB

P

aul Clement has been widely tipped to replace Steve McClaren as the Rams head coach, although chief executive Sam Rush would not be drawn on possible names.

Clement was immediately installed as the bookies hot favourite, as word came out that McClaren was to meet with the club’s management. They shortened the price to 1-20 following McClaren’s dismissal, but Derby refused to be rushed into a decision. Rush insisted that

the timing is right as they wanted to fully consider McClaren’s position before letting him go and, likewise, there is time to make a careful, considered, judgement on his replacement before the business of the new season gets fully underway.

43-year old Clement has been assistant to Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid for the past two years but, with the Italian losing his job, the way is clear for Clement to step out of the shadows. He is known to be ambitious and would relish the opportunity to make his mark in England.

Rush insisted that the timing is right as they wanted to fully consider McClaren’s position before letting him go The son of former QPR defender Dave Clement and brother of exChelsea and West Brom defender Neil, Paul Clement made the decision to concentrate on coaching early in his career. He first joined Chelsea as academy coach in 1996 before working with Fulham’s academy and the Republic of Ireland U21 squad.

Clement returned to Chelsea in 2007 working with the first team under Guus Hiddink in 2009 and later Ancelotti. After a brief spell at Blackburn Rovers he again teamed up with Ancelotti at Paris St-German and then Real Madrid.

In 2013-14 Real won the Spanish Cup and European Cup for the tenth time in their history, but this season were knocked out of the Champions League at the semi-final stage by Juventus and finished as runners-up to

Barcelona in La Liga.

Clement, who was linked with the QPR manager's job when Harry Redknapp left in February, is a tracksuit trainer who would fit well with the set-up at Derby, but he is very highly respected and will also be a target for other clubs, both at home and across Europe.

The appeal at Derby is a strong foundation and a real desire to succeed without currently being in the Premiership. Joining a top flight club could put Clement instantly into the spotlight, with all the pressure to succeed that entails, so that may be in Derby’s favour.

Paul Clement is not the only name being linked to the position at Pride Park, though. Sean Dyche is committed to trying for an immediate return to the top flight with Burnley. He secured

promotion for Burnley in only his first full season in charge and, despite them only being there for one year, Dyche won plenty of admirers for his side’s performances against the top teams.

Mark Warburton impressed in taking Brentford to the Championship play-off semifinals. He already knew he would be looking for another job for next season after differences of opinion with Brentford owner Matthew Benham, but there will be other clubs keen to secure his

Grassroots sports facilities in the East Midlands to get over £1.37 million of funding • 14 projects in the East Midlands to receive Sport England facility funding • 149 sports facilities across England get Lottery funding go ahead • News comes as major funding milestone reached and projects celebrated 14 sports projects in the East Midlands will receive a share of over £1.37 million of National Lottery funding to help improve facilities and playing fields in the region, it has been announced.

The funding will help those schemes to either breathe new life into tired facilities, make them more efficient and sustainable, or improve existing and unused sites so that they offer better sporting experiences for people.

The projects in the East Midlands include: • Improving drainage at Belper Amateurs Cricket Club, where the volunteer groundsmen have been fighting a losing battle against the weather.

The club has been awarded £43,000.

• Creating new changing facilities at Chapel Fields in Hykeham so local people can use the pitches comfortably all year round. North Hykeham Town Council will receive £75,000.

• Upgrading the dilapidated changing rooms, meeting rooms and sports hall at Sudbrooke Drive Community Centre. City of Lincoln Council

has been awarded £500,000.

A complete list of the funded projects is available here: https://sportengland.sharefile.com/ds68ba6f27b3a4876b The announcement comes as Sport England revealed that it has reached a major funding milestone – having invested £5 billion in grassroots sport in the last 20 years.

Since 1994, the year Tom Daley was born, Wet Wet Wet topped the charts with Love Is All Around and the Channel Tunnel opened, Sport England has made tens of thousands of investments – totalling £5 billion.

Sport England’s Property Director, Charles Johnston, said: “£5 billion is a huge sum of money, but it’s the projects and people that that money supports which are really important. We’re delighted to have invested so much into community sport, and see on a daily basis the impact that it makes for local people.

“The latest round of facility funding continues to make a noticeable difference to community sports clubs across the country. By giving people top-class, sustainable facilities in which to play sport, and by improving and protecting our playing surfaces, we’re ensuring that more people can pay sport, more often.”

149 projects across England have been awarded new funding today, totalling £16.5 million of National Lottery money. This will be help to create new changing rooms, pavilions and artificial grass pitches as well as protecting and improving grass pitches to make people's sporting experiences better.

services, too.

Also linked with the Rams job is Burton Albion’s Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, outgoing Watford manager Slavisa Jankovic and even Nigel Clough, sacked by Sheffield United after failing to gain promotion through the League One play-offs.

In the meantime, Derby’s quest to strengthen the squad continues with Darren Bent likely to be the first to sign a permanent deal.

The 31 year old striker scored 12 goals in 17 appearances whilst on loan from Aston Villa. He is out of contract at Villa this summer and enjoyed his time with the Rams.

Derby are also keen to pursue Tom Ince, 11 goals in 18 games during his loan spell. Hull manager Steve Bruce insists Ince still has a role at Hull, now relegated from the Premiership, but the Rams may be prepared to pay what could be a hefty fee for his services.

62 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 29

DONINGTON HISTORIC FESTIVAL The Donington Historic Festival has firmly established itself as the one of the highlights of the historic motor racing calendar with every grid of the three day event at, or near, capacity.

Each race, from historic Grand Prix through sports cars to touring cars, was packed with iconic machinery, a mouth-watering delight for motor racing fans who could get up-close and personal with the cars in the paddock.

These cars may be old and extremely valuable, but their owners were here to race them. Leo Voyazides and Simon Hadfield are regular winners of historic races at Donington, and looked set for victory in the 1000km World Sports Cars event that ran into Saturday evening. Hadfield’s middle stint had given their 1967 Lola T70 a handy lead over the Chris Ward/Paul Gibson T70 replica, but as the light faded in the poor weather conditions, Gibson closed in on Voyazides to take the lead. The Greek gentleman driver was not giving up without a fight and sideby side down the Craners Curves, with just five minutes remaining, the pair touched. The Voyazides T70 hit the tyre wall hard losing a wheel and much of its bodywork.

Ward and Gibson took the win with Voyazides and Hadfield given second place, on countback, as the race was stopped just shy of its two and a half hour schedule. The following morning Voyazides and Hadfield had more familiar smiles after taking victory in the GT & Sports Car Cup, for pre-66 machinery, in their AC Cobra Daytona Coupe. At the end of 90 minutes, their advantage was1 minute 19 seconds over the AC Cobra of Grahame and Ollie Bryant, who just held off the Lister Jaguar of Tony Wood and Will Nuthall.

Chris Ward was back out for the Woodcote Trophy (pre-56 sports cars) claiming fastest lap in his Cooper Jaguar T33 before overheating ended

his race early. Victory went to Fred Wakeman and Patrick Blakeney-Edwards in their T38.

Peter Horsman (Lotus 18) took advantage when Jon Fairley’s Brabham BT11 ran wide in the first of two Pre-66 Grand Prix events. Fairley recovered to take second, some 10 seconds adrift at the flag, but went one better the following day. He was 5 seconds clear of Will Nuthall’s Cooper T53, but Horsman only managed two laps before his gearbox failed. Darwin Smith completed a double in the Historic Formula 2 races in his March 722, 3.8 seconds clear of James Hansen’s Chevron B42 in race one and almost 8 seconds ahead of the March 79B of Andrew Smith in the second race.

There was plenty of touring car action across the weekend, covering the history of the British Touring Car Championship. 2013 BTCC Champion Andrew Jordan, and dad Mike, won the pre-1960 Touring Car Greats race, in their lovely little 1958 Austin A40, having taken a class win in the previous day’s in the History of the BTCC race. This race, covering the period 1958-1966, was won by the 1965 Ford Mustang of Mike Whitaker and Eugene O’Brien.

The U2TC (under 2 litres) event went to Andrew and Max Banks, in their 1965 Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint, ahead of the BMW 1800 of Richard Shaw and ex-F1 ace Jackie Oliver. The Historic Touring Car Challenge, for pre-86 cars, went to the 1972 Capri of Steve Dance. The meeting also played host to the opening rounds of the HSCC Super Touring Trophy for cars up to 2000. Super touring was a golden age for the BTCC, with up to eight manufacturers entering factory-run cars and drawing huge crowds.

Double champion John Cleland has bought his 1997 Vauxhall Vectra for the series, but a puncture led to a disappointing retirement. His 90s rival Patrick Watts soon pulled clear of the pack, in the first race, to bring his Peugeot 406 home ahead of Stewart Whyte’s Honda Accord, before Whyte reversed the result in race two.

Lunchtime demonstrations are a big feature of the Historic Festival and this was an opportunity for circuit owner Kevin Wheatcroft to stretch the legs of his beautiful recreation of the 1930s Mercedes 125 grand prix car, one of the legendary silver arrows witnessed by his father Tom at the prewar Donington Grands Prix. Also on track was the Toleman-Hart which was Ayrton Senna’s regular test car in 1984 and raced by him at Detroit.

Super Touring podium: Neil Smith (third), Patrick Watts (first) and Stewart Whyte (second).

Fred Wakeman and Patrick Blakeney-Edwards won the Woodcote Trophy.

Patrick Watts took the opening Super Touring race in his Peugeot 406.

Stephen Rettenmaier guides his Maserati 300S through the

Leo Voyazides and Simon Hadfield after their sports car victory.

chicane as Tarek Mahmoud locks up his Austin Healey.

Darwin Smith took an Historic F2 double in his March 722.

Mike Whitaker at the wheel of his Ford Mustang.

Historic F2 winner Darwin Smith.

Issue 29 | Derbyshire Guardian 63

McCLAREN: GOING? NOT GOING... GONE! Following months of speculation about his future, Derby County head coach Steve McClaren has finally been sacked, three weeks after a disappointing end to the Rams Championship campaign.

With just two wins in the final 13 games, Derby eventually slipped out of the play-off places with a dismal display on the final day, losing 3-0 at home to Reading.

Many fans felt the team became unsettled by constant speculation linking McClaren to the manager’s position at Newcastle United, believed to be a ‘dream job’ in McClaren’s eyes. When pressed on the question of his future McClaren would only comment that he had a contract with Derby, rather than deny he would be heading north in the summer. This was taken, by many, as a sign of McClaren’s intention to leave.

There was surprise, therefore, just days later when he reaffirmed his commitment to Derby but, following a meeting in New York with the club’s owners, chief executive Sam Rush and new owner Mel Morris summoned McClaren to a meeting to discuss his future.

A statement from the club read: “Derby County have terminated the contract of head coach Steve McClaren with immediate effect.

The decision follows a thorough review of the 2014-15 season by the club’s Board of Directors.

“The Board believes that the appointment of a new head coach is required to continue the club’s on-field progress and the search is now under way to appoint a successor.

“The Board remains firmly committed and driven to achieving

promotion to the Premier League.

The club would also like to take this opportunity to wish Steve McClaren well for the future and thank him for his work throughout his tenure, which included a playoff final appearance in 2014.”

would be what future offers may tempt McClaren, and how long would he remain loyal to Derby County.

“I’m very disappointed with the decision, especially as I have on three occasions reiterated my commitment to Derby County Football Club,” said McClaren in a statement, following his departure.

“The club means a huge amount to me and I was not looking to leave. While we were all unhappy with the way the season ended, I still believe real progress was being made. After taking over a side that was in 14th place at the end of September 2013, we had a fantastic run through to the playoff final last year.”

“While we were all unhappy with the way the season ended, I still believe real progress was being made.”

Top of the table in February, Derby suffered a series of injury woes which left them short an effective strike force, together with the loss of key players John Eustace and Jake Buxton that exposed defensive frailties. McClaren shuffled the order at the back, but this appeared a desperate measure and had little effect as the team’s confidence fell.

In the run-in to the season’s end, Derby’s only wins came against sides that would be relegated, Blackpool and Wigan. The season ended with a miserable home defeat to Reading that finally dropped the Rams out of the play-off positions.

Days later McClaren did reaffirm his commitment to Derby, it is thought after an approach

by Newcastle, but with their premiership future still unsecure McClaren rejected the offer. One of the factors that must have been considered, by the Rams owners,

McClaren added: “Despite the bitter blow of losing in the manner we did at Wembley, the side bounced back and we enjoyed an excellent run until the last two months of the season when we were hit by injuries to key players.

“That was the major reason we were not able to maintain our promotion push. I do not believe or accept that rumours linking me to the Newcastle United job were a factor in the team’s performances this year, as had been alleged.

“Attendances were up to the highest average for a season since the team was in the Premier League and the largest in the Championship during the past season. I wanted to remain with the club and was confident in leading the side to a successful season next year.

“However, I have to accept the club’s owner, Mel Morris, wants to take a new direction.”

Steve McClaren.

2014-15 A SEASON OF UNFULFILLED PROMISE >> Continues from back page

Huddersfield (4-4) and Millwall (33) required the Rams to dig deep and fight back.

There is undoubted ambition to drive the club forward. With Mel Morris at the helm there will be a determination to push towards the Premiership By now automatic promotion was all but out of reach, and he came off the bench and immediately fired the Rams ahead at Wigan with his 20th goal of the season as Derby won 2-0.

Derby returned to free-scoring ways with eleven goals in three games, but only the 4-0 win over doomed Blackpool was convincing and draws with

So, they were still in the top six come the final day, but Appiah’s goal after two minutes put Reading ahead and Derby seemed to lose heart, slipping to a deeply disappointing 0-3 home defeat and eighth place in the final table.

It is hard, now, to look back and think what might have been.

Certainly, in February no-one

would have predicted such a collapse even though the occasional poor performance suggested that Derby would still have some way to go to avoid a repeat of the swift return they experienced on the last visit to the top tier.

There is undoubted ambition to drive the club forward. With Mel Morris at the helm there will be a determination to push towards the Premiership sooner, rather than later, and Steve McLaren has certainly left the club in a better position than he found it.

The Rams faithful deserve to see top flight football, so here we go again. There will be a new man in charge and, again, we will approach the season full of optimism. Let’s hope we finally get some fulfilment.

Leading goal scorer Chris Martin.

McCLAREN: GOING? NOT GOING... GONE!

Sport

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>> See full story on Page 63

2014-15 A SEASON OF UNFULFILLED PROMISE T welve months ago Rams fans were full of optimism for the season ahead. Steve McClaren’s arrival at Derby, in October 2013, breathed new life through the club. Derby languished 14th in the Championship table following a 1-0 defeat at Nottingham’s City Ground at the end of September, and the board decided that was enough for Nigel Clough.

Steve McClaren, previously assistant to Jim Smith, sat in the stand to watch the next home game, against Ipswich, before taking charge the following day and cannot like what he saw in the opening 45 minutes. With Derby trailing 1-4, McClaren went to the dressing room at half-time and a rejuvenated Rams team fought back to force a draw. The team went from strength-tostrength and, with a 5-0 thrashing of rivals Nottingham Forest along the way, reached the Wembley play-off only to be disappointed by a late QPR winner.

On occasions, in 2014-15, Derby produced some sparkling performances when they could have taken apart any side in the Championship, but there was often a schizophrenic streak and the level of performance could turn at the drop of a hat.

After the gut-wrenching defeat to QPR in the previous season’s

play-off final, the Rams were the bookies pre-season favourites, but it was fierce rivals Nottingham Forest who made the early running.

An opening day home win against Rotherham was no more than Derby fans expected, although it took a late goal from Jeff Hendrick to take the win. Just one point from visits to Sheffield Wednesday and Charlton was hardly an inspiring start, so it was a relief when the Rams turned it on against the newly relegated Fulham with Chris Martin opening his league account with two in a 5-1 drubbing.

Ryan Shotton’s late equaliser against leaders Forest was the catalyst for strong run in September, four wins from six, although they had to come from two down to draw at home to Cardiff. Loanee Jordan Ibe came off the bench to pull one back before Jamie Ward levelled six minutes from time. The month ended with the Rams in fourth place after Will Hughes and Martin scored late to beat the season’s surprise team Bournemouth.

Another Martin late winner at Blackpool extended Derby’s unbeaten run to ten league games, including five clean sheets, and took the Rams to the top of the table for the first time for three years, but the fans

Will Hughes was voted Player of the Year.

Derby produced some sparkling performances when they could have taken apart any side in the Championship, but there was often a schizophrenic streak left Pride Park disappointed the following Saturday as Wigan overturned the form book to inflict the Rams first home defeat since March. Again, Fulham felt Derby’s wrath, this time in the 4th round of the League Cup. Fulham went 2-0 up just before the interval but Martin’s equaliser, on the stroke of half-time lit a spark.

Russell levelled after the break and Dawkins (two) and Hendrick made it five against Fulham for

the second time in two months.

Another defeat, at Brentford, was followed by three wins, including 5-0 at home to Wolves, but just as Derby returned to the head of the table, their form dipped and they slipped to a poor defeat at Leeds. Still league leaders, Derby swept Brighton aside with three goals in a stunning opening 20 minutes before disappointing again, away to promotion rivals Middlesbrough.

The League Cup run came to an end with a spirited performance against the might of Chelsea, Jake Buxton’s dismissal ending any hope of fighting back after Craig Bryson reduced the deficit to 1-2. Chelsea went on to win 3-1.

A sublime Boxing Day 4-0 win at Birmingham showed what Derby could do and the year ended with a 2-0 revenge win against Leeds, but by now Bournemouth were

three points clear.

A poor second half, at home to Nottingham Forest blighted an otherwise good start to the new year. When Will Hughes came off just after the break, Derby seemed to lose direction in midfield and Forest took advantage with Derby-born Ben Osborn striking the winner two minutes into stoppage time.

The side was bolstered, in January, by loan signings Raul Albentosa, Stephen Warnock, Darren Bent and Tom Ince. Ince marked his debut with two goals in the 4-1 defeat of Bolton and extended that to five in four games in a 3-3 draw at Rotherham.

Bent was also regularly finding the net, just as well as leading scorer Chris Martin picked up a hamstring injury in the draw at Bournemouth that would put him out for several weeks.

Home wins against Sheffield

Wednesday and Charlton took Derby back to the top, but by now the speculation over McClaren’s future was a hot topic among the fans and, many suspect, the players too. The leaders travelled to Fulham, full of expectation after earlier results, but there was a complete reversal of form and the Rams offered little resistance, going down 2-0.

Further injuries, to Bent and Russell, left Derby short of firepower. There were just three points from the next six games as Derby slipped to fifth, the 1-1 draw at Norwich being the highlight with young Jamie Hanson’s goal, direct from a corner earning the point. It seemed the Rams had lost shape and errors at the back became common place, so disappointing for a team that kept eleven clean sheets before the turn of the year.

The excitement surrounding the

return of George Thorne was short-lived. He had damaged his cruciate knee ligament in a preseason friendly, the day after signing on a permanent move from West Brom and he spent most of the season on the sideline.

His return in the spring lasted just three games before he tore a thigh muscle in the draw against Watford. John Eustace’s absence was another huge blow. So often the rock in Derby’s midfield, he underwent knee surgery after helping the Rams to three points at Ipswich in January and missed the rest of the season, while Jake Buxton also missed the run-in after surgery on his back.

Chris Martin’s long awaited return, in April, fuelled optimism that a play-off place should be a formality.

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