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One of Bombardier’s Class 378 Electrostar units.
INSIDE
ANOTHER MAJOR LONDON ORDER FOR BOMBARDIER
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Derby Ramathon
r a i n - m a k e r Bombardier have been awarded a contract worth £260 million to supply at least 45 new trains, to Transport for London’s Overground network, from their works in Litchurch Lane in Derby. The order will increase the number of Bombardier Class 378 Electrostar sets working across the capital to 112.
The award of the order is provisional, and is expected to be confirmed after the normal 10day standstill period. Bombardier’s Electrostar units were first ordered for London Overground in 2007, supplied as three-car sets. Each set was later extended to four cars and, to cope with increased passenger demand, an additional order was placed in 2013. This order was to modify all 57 sets to five cars and
is nearing completion. The 45 new trains will operate on the Liverpool Street to Enfield Town, Cheshunt (via Seven Sisters) and Chingford routes, which became part of the Overground network on 31 May. They will be also be used between Romford and Upminster and on the Gospel Oak to Barking line when electrification of that route is completed in 2017. The contract includes maintenance
and also contains options for more trains beyond the initial 45. “This brand new fleet of trains will enable London Overground to carry a growing number of passengers more reliably and speedily than ever,” said Mayor of London, Boris Johnson. “The award of this contract is good news, not just for London Overground customers, but for UK plc as well. By investing in new trains, here in the Capital,
TfL is helping to support jobs and skills in Derby and right across the country.” It is expected that this contract will support hundreds of jobs in Derby, including more than 20 apprenticeships, as Bombardier trains the next generation of rail engineers.
>> Continues on page 2
2 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 30
COUNCIL PLAN INVESTMENT TO SECURE DERBY MARKETS The futures of Derby’s indoor markets have been guaranteed after the city council revealed plans for a multi-million pound investment. The futures of the Market Hall and the Eagle Market have both been in the balance as councillors debated how to make them financially viable. Both markets have suffered from large numbers of empty stalls and, at one point, it was suggested that they could be merged into one location. The council now believe that they need to take action as, by taking no action at all, both markets would most likely continue to decline. The Market Hall currently has around one third of its stalls empty, while in the Eagle Market that figure is closer to half. The city council plans suggest how investment should stimulate growth in each market and the news has been welcomed by traders’ association leaders. This follows a report by consultants Colliers International. Councillor Martin Rawson, cabinet member with responsibility for Derby’s markets, was positive about the findings of the report. “It offers lots of options for the markets in Derby to really thrive and contribute towards the vibrant city centre we are trying to achieve,” he said. “It offers a way for substantial multi-million pound investment in the markets and, in the case of Market Hall, a way to safeguard Derby’s heritage for many years to come.” The council’s plans for a Market Hall makeover include a dedicated space for food and drink with outlets operating into the evening, together with a restaurant in the balcony area. There would be a new, more attractive, layout for the main market stall area with underfloor heating. The whole project, for the Market Hall, is expected to cost the region of £8 million, for which the council will seek help from the Heritage Lottery Fund. The Cathedral Quarter Business Improvement District Management Group has offered to fund the first stage application to the Heritage Lottery Fund. Securing the necessary funding will not happen soon, so the council are drawing up plans for intermediate repairs to stalls and the market’s roof, which could cost the authority around £3 million.
Councillor Rawson acknowledges that the council has failed to give adequate assistance to Derby’s markets in the past and agrees that action is urgently required.“The report recognises the fact that we need to do something and we are very much committed to markets’ future now.” It is hoped that much of the £3 million required to reinvigorate the Eagle Market will come from the private sector, with the neighbouring Intu shopping centre working more closely with the market, or even a private operator taking ownership of the market. The modernised market could include a children’s soft play area and a space for live entertainment and music. Mr Rawson also accepted that there are considerable delays when prospective traders want to acquire one of the vacant stalls. “We need to turn stalls around more quickly when there’s an interest in taking one on. We also need to be proactive in getting someone, who have may never thought of being a market trader, to think about it for the first time.” Councillor Rawson added “The traders have been fully involved with drafting the report and there’s, almost unanimously, been a welcome for the report from the market traders.” Linda Aston, chair of Market Hall Traders Association and member of Cathedral Quarter BID Management Group, and Kay Woodhouse, chair of Eagle Market Traders Association and member of St Peters Quarter BID Management Group, have released a joint statement. “We are delighted that the proposals on the table recognise the value of retaining both the Market Hall in Derby’s Cathedral Quarter and the Eagle Market in St Peters Quarter. The Cathedral Quarter BID has offered to fund the first stage application to the Heritage Lottery Fund to support the work necessary to restore and revitalise this iconic building,” they said. “St Peters Quarter BID is keen to work alongside Derby City Council and Intu Derby shopping centre to support the way forward for this popular destination in the heart of the city centre.”
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Inside Derby’s Market Hall.
ANOTHER MAJOR LONDON ORDER FOR BOMBARDIER >> Continues from front page Mike Brown, managing director of London Rail, added: “These 45 new trains will significantly improve the comfort, reliability and overall quality of train services for our customers. Some of the trains we have inherited along the West Anglia route are over 30 years old and have not been in use for some time. We’re now working hard to overhaul
these trains to make them more reliable until the new trains come into service from 2018. “Ordering new trains for the Gospel Oak to Barking line and West Anglia route together, as well as including a provision to order more trains should passenger demand warrant additional capacity, ensures that we get best value for money for
our customers.” The new rolling stock is expected to be similar to the original fleet, with walk-through interiors, air-conditioning and improved accessibility. Bombardier also says a £20 million investment in its Derby factory is the biggest since the site was opened in 1876. The test shed investment is being made as part of the £1 billion Crossrail contract at Litchurch Lane. Up to 340 people are to be recruited to build the Crossrail trains. The first of these 600-plus carriages is now under construction and should be entering service during 2018.
Issue 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 3
HEANOR FIRM RECOGNISED FOR WORK WITH APPRENTICES
nominated by Nicola Clarke, of Learning Unlimited, the Chesterfield t r a i n i n g p r o v i d e r working with C u l l u m ’s apprentices. “A p p r e n t i c e s are embedded into the ethos of Cullum who have annually recruited young people onto Apprentices Philip Attewell, Meagan Randle, Joe Cox and structured programmes,” Nicola Stapleton with Cullum’s HR Manager Chrissie said Nicola. Symons and Production Manager Niell Abernethy. “Quality is at the forefront, he government are giving much and with this in mind Cullum has developed strong encouragement to employers to make links with local schools.” apprenticeship places available to “Absolutely delighted,” said Bill Rigg, Cullum’s school leavers looking for an alternative managing director. “There are a lot of people who to university. put a lot of spare time and effort into forming those Heanor engineers Cullum Detuners have embraced links with schools and colleges, often voluntarily and this opportunity to develop tomorrow’s engineers outside of work hours, and this is due recognition of with their ‘Grow Our Own’ scheme and this has what they have put into that.” been recognised, in the face of stiff competition, with Cullum’s “Grow Our Own” scheme has developed Chesterfield College’s award for ‘Employer of the close relationships with local schools and to engage Year’. with students who may wish to explore the Cullum Cullum received their award at a ceremony at Apprenticeship as a route to career progression. The Chesterfield College in June after they were company’s apprentices and senior engineers work
T
“Quality is at the forefront, and with this in mind Cullum has developed strong links with local schools.”
closely with local schools on specific projects and students are offered the chance to gain experience in the work environment together with talks and tours of the Heanor facility. Cullum’s award success, with their scheme, is a mark of the value the company puts on apprenticeships, as Chesterfield College deals with around 2,000 other companies. “We actively involve ourselves with local schools to drive those relationships with the key people there,” said Mr Rigg. “It’s all about having that view of growth for the future and positively setting your stall out around that to make that happen.”
NEW PLANS APPROVED FOR ILKESTON STATION
Trees and shrubs cleared from the car park area.
Ilkeston’s much-delayed railway station should, finally, be opened in August 2016. That is the hope after revised plans for the £9 million station have been approved. The station was originally scheduled for completion in October 2014 but THE Environment Agency identified the area proposed for the station car park as at risk of flooding. Derbyshire County Council was forced to look at ways to reduce other associated costs to keep the station project on-budget. Revised planning applications, submitted to Erewash and Broxtowe Borough Councils, have been passed and include shorter station platforms, a smaller car park (now for around 90 cars) with a single entrance and exit, cycle parking and drop off and pick up points closer to the station platforms. Chris Corbett, leader of Erewash Borough Council is delighted at the prospect of construction work finally getting underway. “Its jolly good news,” he said. “There were concerns about things like the taxi rank. We needed a taxi rank on the Erewash side so Erewash taxi drivers could pick people up from the station. Previously I believe there was only a taxi rank on the Broxtowe side, good for Nottinghamshire, but not good for Erewash. So those things needed sorting out.” Clearance work, on the site, began in March watched by Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin. The site of the old station, used in recent years as a scrap yard, has been cleared together with work to cut back trees and shrubs. The site had also been identified as home to a colony of great-crested newts, protected by law, and they, too, have delayed work from getting underway. Natural England have been inspecting the site since
The scrap yard area cleared on the Ilkeston side.
last summer to remove the newts to a new location, as the law requires that no newts be seen for a period of five continuous days before the site can be declared newt-free. This did not happen before the winter frosts came, driving the newts into hibernation. The site has been passed as newt-free during the spring, but the revised plans include a different area of land. The authority is currently waiting for a judgement from Natural England as to whether-or-not they can
proceed without further inspections. It is hoped that construction work will begin in September. The completed station would provide a rail link between Ilkeston and Nottingham, to the southeast, and with Alfreton and Chesterfield to the north. Ilkeston has been without a station since 1967 and is currently the largest town in the country not served by a railway station.
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Almost 600 people every week put at risk of losing their home in the East Midlands New Shelter analysis reveals the region’s ‘home threat hotspots’ Alarming new figures from housing charity Shelter have revealed almost 600 people in the East Midlands were put at risk of losing their home every week in the last year. In an analysis of statistics from the Ministry of Justice, the charity identified how many people are at risk of eviction and repossession as well as the ‘home threat hotspots’ across the East Midlands where people are most likely to face the risk of losing their home. Nottingham topped the list in the East Midlands, with as many as 1 in every 70 homes under threat of eviction or repossession, followed by Leicester (1 in 75), Lincoln (1 in 101) and Corby (1 in 102). And these shocking figures are borne out by the sheer number of people visiting the Shelter website looking for advice on repossession and eviction, with 360,000 unique visits in the last year alone. Case study: Bill Murdoch, 52, lost his job as a bus driver after suddenly losing the sight in one eye last year. Things started spiralling downwards when he missed two payments on a loan secured against his home, and he contacted Shelter for help. “I’d always done my job with a smile on my face but once I lost my sight, it was over. The bills started to mount up and, even though we’d had been making the payments without fail for years, the loan company told us they were going to take away our home. “Coming on top of losing my sight and my job, stressed doesn’t begin to describe how I felt when our home was under threat. I have never been more terrified than I was on the day the court order came. The only thing that gave me hope was when I contacted Shelter who helped us through the court process. If it wasn’t for that, we’d have lost everything.” Nadeem Khan, helpline adviser for Shelter, said: “We’re hearing from thousands of people who have suffered in silence while they struggle to keep up with their rent or mortgage, and come to us in desperation when the court papers finally land on their doormat. “It’s natural to feel helpless in the face of mounting bills, but getting expert advice as soon as you start having trouble with housing payments can really help you see the light at the end of the tunnel, and keep the threat of losing your home at bay.” Alison Mohammed, Shelter’s director of services, said: “These staggering figures show just how many people are fighting to keep their families in their homes, after dealing with the double blow of welfare cuts and a drastic shortage of affordable housing. “We’re doing everything we can to give advice and support to anyone who faces losing the roof over their heads, but the government must also play its part by putting a stop to further cuts to the safety net which helps ordinary families stay in their homes.” Shelter helps 4 million people a year fight bad housing and homelessness through its online, helpline and face to face services. For free, expert advice from Shelter visit shelter.org.uk/ advice or call the helpline on 0808 800 4444
4 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 30
Issue 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 5
Absent-minded people in the east Midlands reveal what they are most likely to forget Remembering important dates and events is proving a problem for many people in the east Midlands according to research by car insurance specialist Admiral MultiCar. One in seven (14%) of those surveyed in the region said they have got into trouble for forgetting something important, while nearly one in three (31%) said they find it stressful remembering dates and events. Passwords are what the people of the east Midlands are most likely to forget, half of them said they have forgotten these. This is followed by where they have
left their keys on 46% and a relative’s birthday on 37%. More than a third (36%) of respondents in the east Midlands said they have forgotten where they parked their car, while nearly one in ten (9%) has forgotten Valentine’s Day and the same number has forgotten their wedding anniversary. Thankfully only 1% said they’ve forgotten their child’s birthday. The top ten important things people in the east Midlands said they have forgotten are:
1
Your Password
50%
2
Where you have left your keys
46%
3
A relative’s birthday
37%
4
An appointment
37%
5
To turn off an appliance
37%
6
Your pin number
37%
7
Where you parked your car
36%
8
A friend’s birthday
34%
9
To pay a bill
33%
10
Directions to a place you have visited before
24%
Admiral MultiCar spokesperson, Justin Beddows said, “As a nation, working hours are getting longer and social lives are getting busier. “So it’s perhaps not surprising that many people are starting to forget passwords, deadlines and pin numbers. “It’s important not to beat yourself over the head if
you forget something minor, and you can always learn from your experience. “If you are organised in your life, you are less likely to forget important dates and events. “Phone reminders, calendars, diaries or even sticky notes – as long as you don’t forget the important things it doesn’t matter how you go about doing it.”
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Residents in the Midlands splash out £520 on beefy barbecues throughout the summer A study by TopCashback.co.uk, released today, reveals barbecues are burning a hole in resident’s pockets. Between hosting and attending barbecues during the summer months, residents in the Midlands will spend an average of £520 on everything from burger buns to corn on the cob. On average, the majority of residents in the Midlands will host four barbecues throughout the summer, spending £100 on each. They will also attend four, spending £30 on food, drink and gifts to take with them each time. A surprising 19 per cent of residents will spend up to £300 on hosting a barbecue for their friends and family. 45 per cent of residents in the Midlands also plan on ‘doing up’ their garden for the season, with around a third (31 per cent) spending around £300 on the revamp. 36 per cent of residents in the Midlands say summer is the most expensive season as they plan on splashing their cash on holidays, festivals, sporting events, amusement parks and a new summer wardrobe to make the most of the sun Other summer financial woes key findings: •
41 per cent of residents worry about not having enough money to cover their summer
•
spending 22 per cent of residents cut back on their spending during winter and autumn so they can enjoy the summer more
Natasha Rachel Smith, Consumer Affairs Editor for TopCashback (www.topcashback.co.uk), says: “Summer can easily be an expensive season as we do more activities outside to make the most of the inviting weather, which can drive up costs with barbecues, picnics, days out and visits to amusement parks. Planning ahead can insure the cost of summer’s months of fun go by like a breeze. I stock my freezer with foods I like on the barbecue before the season starts and prices are hiked up; I also plan my days out and make the most of discount vouchers and Tesco Clubcard tokens. Natasha continues: “Residents in the Midlands looking for a cheaper summer this year can make the most of cashback deals on days out with Red Letter Days and Groupon. There’s also a range of summer deals via the TopCashback Snap & Save feature, offering shoppers money-off their groceries in store.” The key statistics for the East and West Midlands are displayed in the infographics below:
6 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 30
DERBY RAMATHON
TOM SURPRISED BY RAMATHON VICTORY
V
ictor Tom Doe said he was surprised to win the 2015 Derby Ramathon in June. This was his first race after finishing 73rd in the recent London Marathon, but the 33 year old was maintaining this year’s unbeaten run in other events. “I’ve not done much since the London Marathon, so I didn’t think I’d win,” he commented, after coming home over two minutes ahead of his nearest rival, Andy Harding. Tom, who runs for Lincoln Wellington AC, works as physiotherapist for the Ramathon’s chief sponsors, Central Health, in Spondon. In 2015 he has already won the Coventry half marathon and the Lincoln 10K. “I was feeling good,” he added, “and, although I did get a little behind, I was able to catch up and win. That was fantastic.” Tom was in the leading group as the field left Pride Park and headed out of Derby along London Road, through Alvaston, towards Shardlow. Also in the leading group was unaffiliated runner Andy Harding and Stuart Spencer of Notts AC. The new course for 2015 was generally flat, with many runners looking to set personal best times. From Shardlow the course turned left towards Ambaston before heading back to Pride Park through the grounds of Elvaston Castle.
Tom, having his first run in the Ramathon, crossed the line in 1 hour 10 minutes and 25 seconds. Andy Harding completed the course in 1.12.41 with third placed Stuart Spencer coming home in 1.13.57. Local runners helped to fill out the top ten positions. Sam Pearch of Shelton Striders was sixth overall, in a time of 1.16.10 with Ashbourne RC’s Christopher Patterson seventh (1.16.24) ahead of the second Shelton Strider James Walker (1.16.52). Alan Kay (Long Eaton RC) was just outside the top ten finishing twelfth in a time of 1.17.42. Hannah Oldroyd (Uknetrunners. co.uk), who took second place in last year’s Ramathon, returned to take the ladies honour’s in a superb time of 1:22:03, knocking over five minutes off last year’s time. The Yorkshire runner said “It’s a great feeling to win, and the weather was ideal for running.” Following Hannah home was Heanor Running Club’s Debra
Mason (1.23.03) and Gemma Bridge of Oxford City AC in a time of 1.25.02. The fourth lady to finish was Rachel McGuinness of Derwent Runners who completed the course in 1.26.06. The men’s affiliated club title was retained by Shelton Striders. The quartet, made up of Sam Pearch (1.16.10), James Walker (1.16.52), Robert Donald (1.21.42) and Martin Kerr (1.21.49), finishing in a time of 5.16.33. Heanor RC retained the women’s affiliated club title, with the trio of Debra Mason (1.23.03), Jill Burke (1.33.06) and Laura Robinson (1.36.36) recording a time of 4.32.45. Behind the elite runners were the rest of the field of 3,615 runners, all enjoying the relatively calm conditions, with many raising thousands of pounds for various charities. The official charity, Macmillan Cancer Support, had a great representation with 204 runners crossing the finishing line.
“It’s a great feeling to win, and the weather was ideal for running.”
Issue 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 7
CAN YOU SEE YOURSELF? Congratulations to all Ramathon runners! Can you spot yourself in the crowd? #FindYourFace and let us know!
8 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 30
THE BANANA – A FRUIT WITH ROOTS IN DERBYSHIRE
The greenhouse at Chatsworth where the original banana plant still lives.
W
hether at the fruit market, the supermarket or the grocers shop, there are certain fruits that we consider to be exotic, and there are those that we probably take for granted, apples, oranges and … bananas. Bananas are now considered a staple and imported in huge numbers, but they have a unique appearance and were once considered to be extremely exotic. Indeed, bananas were still quite rare in Britain at the beginning of the twentieth century. Despite this there is a very strong local connection to the banana you buy in the shops, a variety with origins right here in Derbyshire.
The commercial variety of banana sold today is the Dwarf Cavendish, a direct descendant from a plant cultivated in the Chatsworth greenhouse 180 years ago by Sir Joseph Paxton, head gardener to the 6th Duke of Devonshire. In the previous issue of Derbyshire Guardian we looked at the career of this extraordinary man who, from humble beginnings, became one of the country’s most eminent botanists as well as designer of the Crystal Palace for the Great Exhibition of 1851. The banana began life around 10,000 years ago in south-east Asia and is sometimes refered to as the Chinese banana. ’Banan’
is the Arabic word for ‘finger’ and the earliest record of a banana in Britain is of one in a herbalist’s shop in London in 1633. Legend has it that Paxton was fascinated by a banana plant design on Chinese wallpaper in a bedroom at Chatsworth, and he was keen to obtain a specimen. A number of plants were shipped from Mauritius to England in 1829 and one of the survivors was given to Paxton, in 1834, by the Chaplain of Alton Towers, then the seat of the Earl of Shrewsbury. Paxton named his plant Musa Cavendishii after his employer, and great friend, William Cavendish, 6th Duke of Devonshire.
The original Musa Cavendishii still thrives in the Chatsworth greenhouse. Under Paxton’s care the plant flourished, prompting the Duke to write to the chaplain: “I am delighted to have an opportunity of seeing that most beautiful and curious fruit. It is the admiration of everybody.” In 1836 one of Paxton’s bananas was exhibited at the Horticultural Society Show, causing quite a stir, and taking the Knighton Silver Medal. Some years later John Williams, a missionary, took a consignment of Cavendish banana plants to Samoa. Although only one plant survived the journey, it thrived and became the source of banana plants throughout the South Sea islands, while another Musa Cavendishii was introduced to the Canary Islands in 1855. Bananas were still a rare and exotic fruit in Britain until 1888 when Thomas Fyffe began importing Cavendish bananas from the Canaries. The production of Cavendish bananas remains an important part of the Canaries’ economy, although they no longer have a trade agreement with the UK. It was 1903 before the Dwarf Cavendish was mass produced and the dominant variety, until the 1950s, was the Gros Michel (Big Mike) banana. As bananas are propagated by vegetative, rather than sexual, reproduction
Chatsworth, home of the commercial banana.
the plant clones are genetically identical and cannot evolve disease resistance. The Panama disease of the 1950s, for which there is no effective treatment, had a devastating effect on the Gros Michel variety. This variety is not extinct, but no longer viable on a commercial basis. The Dwarf Cavendish became a natural successor for commercial plantations because of the high quality of the fruit produced. When the Cavendish variety was transplanted, as a replacement for the Gros Michel, the plants remained healthy and productive, so it is thought the Cavendish has reistance to the Panama virus. However,recent evidence has shown that the Cavendish may now be vulnerable to the black sigatoka fungus, first observed in Fiji in the 1960s. It is not thought here is a suitable replacement for the Cavendish, should disease make it unviable, but scientists are now looking into creating a disease resistant hybrid banana for the mass-market. The banana bunches are harvested at around five to six months, before the fruit begins to ripen. The task of cutting the fruit is extremely delicate work as care is required to prevent damage to
the fruit and the bunches can be quite heavy, up to 50kg. Each plantation has its own packing plant where the freshly cut bunches are usually prepared for shipping on the same day. A typical plantation can cut and process 15 – 20 tonnes in a day and around 1,500 tonnes per year. The fruit is, of course, eaten raw but may also be used in baking and fruit salads and is also used to flavour other foods. Picking the green bananas halts the ripening process and it requires exposure to ethylene gas for the banana to restart the process. The fruit is sold with the skin partially green and, as ripening continues, starches turn to sugar making the fruit sweeter. If the banana is allowed to over-ripen, brown/ black ‘sugar spots’ develop on the skin and the flesh turns mushy. Today the original Cavendish banana plant still thrives in the greenhouse at Chatsworth. It is well worth a look if you are visiting the gardens, just one legacy of Sir Joseph Paxton, who died 150 years ago, a great character who had a profound influence on Victorian society, the effects of which are still with us today.
A commercial banana plantation.
Sir Joseph Paxton, who successfully propagated the banana.
Dwarf Cavendish, the world’s most popular dessert banana.
Issue 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 9
Tom Brown’s Childrenswear Tom Browns Childrenswear sells designer clothes for kids from newborn to 16 years and is based at Saddler Gate, Derby. There are classic polos by Ralph Lauren in a nautical red, navy and white colour with a splash of green which are perfect for summer days smart of casual. The Hugo Boss sporting wear
features fresh colours of lime, turquoise, orange and white, coordinating swim shorts, caps and flip flops which are ideal for beach wear. For girls there is an ice cream palette of colours from Billie Blush featuring pretty shorts and t-shirts teamed with practical summer coats for those rainy days.
This season’s footwear sees flip flops from Hugo Boss and Ugg and there are also sandals and deck shoes by Timberland. In addition there are hi tops and casual pumps by Ralph Lauren. All the above are available from Tom Browns.
NURSES HOME DISAPPEARING FROM CITY SKYLINE Wilderslowe Tower, one of the tallest buildings in Derby is disappearing from the city skyline, part of the demolition process to clear much of the site of the former Derby Royal Infirmary. The tower, built in the 1960s to accommodate nurses working at the hospital, was a striking feature of the landscape, particularly along Osmaston Road near the top of Bradshaw Way but, abandoned and derelict, has become something of an eyesore in recent years. It was not possible to demolish the tower with explosives because of the proximity of the nearby listed Wilderslowe House. Explosives would also have caused extensive disruption to the surrounding road network and parts of the Intu shopping centre which would have had to be cleared. Instead the work is being carried out by a large crane which is chipping away slowly at the structure, taking weeks, rather than minutes to complete the task. Derby Hospitals received a £3.7 million loan from the Department of Health to fund the site clearance project which began late last year. The London Road Community Hospital, which now occupies six wards on the former DRI site, will not be affected by the demolition work. It is expected that houses will be built on the space vacated by the demolition of the former nurses’ home.
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Women in the Midlands risk losing hundreds of pounds as more than half are uncertain if the contents of their handbags are insured Despite more than half (53 per cent) of women claiming their ‘everyday handbag’ is worth less than £50[1], women in the Midlands are now stashing thousands of pounds in their handbags with gadgets, accessories and expensive makeup, all to keep up with modern and hectic lifestyles. However, a study by TopCashback.co.uk, released today, reveals that nearly all women (93 per cent) do not have insurance for their handbag and there’s also a lack of awareness as to whether the items they carry with in them are insured or not. With the most common items including a purse (92 per cent), a smartphone (78 per cent), sunglasses (42 per cent) and a make-up bag (37 per cent), costs can quickly add up. More than half (55 per cent) of women in the Midlands are unsure if the items they carry in their handbag are covered in their home contents insurance policy, whilst 20 per cent are unsure if the valuables are protected by their handbag insurance. The research goes on to reveal that the majority of women do not have individual insurance for their valuables. Just 40 per cent have their smartphones insured whilst a mere 21 per cent have cover for their tablets. eReaders are amongst the most least likely items to be insured with just 16 per cent of women having a policy for them. Other key findings reveal: • 47 per cent of women in the Midlands who do have a home contents insurance policy are unsure if it includes ‘out of house’ cover, to protect the contents of their handbags • Around half (48 per cent) of women are also unsure if any items are excluded from their contents insurance
• More than a third (36 per cent) of women own a designer handbag, yet only two per cent have specific designer handbag insurance Natasha Rachel Smith, Consumer Affairs Editor for TopCashback (www.topcashback.co.uk), says: “We live in a day where women are constantly on the go, carrying their work and life with them in their handbag. Because of this, we’re now lugging around thousands of pounds, on top of the cost of a handbag, in the form of gadgets, home and car keys, accessories and expensive make-up. Our research serves a warning that women are unsure about whether these items are insured and risk an expensive repay-out should their handbag be lost or stolen. Natasha continues: “It’s important for anyone who doesn’t travel lightly to check which items are covered in their home contents insurance policy and whether the cover allows for possessions to be taken out of the house. Take ten minutes to put together a list of the valuables your handbag contains, plus also consider the jewellery you wear, and cross-reference it with existing contents and individual insurance policies to make sure everything is covered up to its worth. For those without insurance, contrary to popular believe, policies don’t have to be expensive; for many people it will cost less than one hundred pounds each year and some even make a profit when buying cover online by earning a cashback amount that’s more than the policy’s annual premium. Consumers can currently take out individual gadget and contents insurance policies using TopCashback and earn up to £68.25 cashback.” The key statistics for the East and West Midlands are displayed in the infographics below:
DERBY’S ECONOMY FASTEST GROWING IN UK 10 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 30
D
erby’s outstanding performance in engineering and advanced manufacture has placed it at the head of a leading survey of the nation’s economic growth. East Derbyshire and South & West Derbyshire were placed second and third in the survey showing that the growth in the local economy outstripped that of the other 135 cities, towns and other regions included in the survey. The survey, by chartered accountants UHY Hacker Young, shows Derby and its neighbouring economies to have grown at a rate of 23% in Gross Value Added (GVA) over a five year period from 2009 to 2013, at a time when the UK economy was struggling to deal with the effects of the recession. The Midlands, generally, did well in the survey with Stoke-on Trent (21%) and Walsall (20%) rounding out the top five while Wolverhampton and Worcestershire also made the top ten. GVA is a measure of an area’s contribution to the UK economy based on the value of the goods and services it produces per head of working population. At 23%, the local economies’ performance is more than twice the national average of 9%. The survey highlights the resurgence of engineering and advanced manufacturing output as helping to drive the region’s economy. In Derby Rolls-Royce maintained a steady performance as the recession hit the aircraft industry, but recently announced a record order to supply Trent 900 engines to the Emirates airline. Toyota are building new versions of their Avensis and Auris models whilst Bombardier, having lost the Thameslink order, recovered to win the Crossrail contract securing jobs at their Litchurch Lane plant. Both Derby and the neighbouring areas have many smaller companies which feed into the supply chains of these big companies, and others throughout the country, contributing to Derbyshire’s success. "It's been a difficult decade for some parts of the
Midlands, but these figures show that the region's advanced manufacturing base is once again a huge growth driver,” said Malcolm Winston, partner at UHY Hacker Young's Birmingham office. "Demand for advanced products manufactured in the Midlands has ensured that the region's economy has bounced back strongly from the recession." He added, "One of the benefits of a strong manufacturing base is that the employment created cascades down the supply chain too - a huge number of businesses in the Midlands have businesses like Rolls-Royce, Toyota and Jaguar Land Rover as major customers. The need for skilled workers has driven investment in education and skills and created a real advanced manufacturing cluster, which makes the area even more attractive to businesses.” East Derbyshire and South & West Derbyshire have adapted well to changes following the decline, and subsequent loss, of their traditional coal mining economies. Engineering manufacture has accounted for much of their recent growth and encompasses both traditional and hi-tech industries. Heanor Gate, in East Derbyshire, is typical of the diversity. Space-age carbon fibre production for the motorsport industry began with the Advanced Composites Group, which became part Cytec in 2012. With highly trained project engineers, technicians and chemists, the Heanor site provides design, process development, formulation, and testing and evaluation services, still leaders in their field. Just down the road, Cullum Detuners are a more traditional fabrication engineering company, but very much at the forefront of the acoustic engineering market in both aircraft testing and power generation, on and off-shore. Environmental noise control continues to be a major issue and during the period of the recession Cullum have increased turnover and staffing levels. “We set out to grow because of the pressures of the
"Demand for advanced products manufactured in the Midlands has ensured that the region's economy has bounced back strongly from the recession."
Cytec’s hi-tech manufacturing facility in Heanor.
Bill Rigg, MD of environmental noise specialists Cullum Detuners.
Issue 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 11
From speed to selfies: drivers behaving badly in the East Midlands • One in ten new drivers break the speed limits within a day of passing their test* • A tenth of new drivers display bad motorway driving behaviours within a week of passing their test** • Over a third of drivers brake badly and career around corners New research by The Co-operative Insurance has shown that much of what is taught to pass the driving test is forgotten by over a fifth of drivers*** in the East Midlands within a week of them tearing up their ‘L’ plates*. Speed, braking and motorway driving continue to be the main themes of bad driving, however social media is now playing a role in bad driving behaviours. The research, by the UK’s first mainstream telematics insurer has revealed modern distractions are now entering into driver behaviours. Nationally, the research highlights, over 1 in 50**** drivers have updated social media feeds, taken selfies or recorded videos whilst driving. And the 25-34 age group are the most socially active in their vehicles, with almost 1 in 10 admitting to updating their statuses and over 1 in 20 taking selfies. Despite over half (51%) of drivers in the East Midlands classing their driving as at least ‘very good’, over a quarter (27%) of drivers display bad speeding behaviours within a week of passing their test, with 15 per cent breaking speed limits within 24 hours of becoming a legal driver. Of the drivers who speed, two fifths (42%) admit to regularly breaking the limit by 5 per cent, over a third (35%) regularly break the speed limit by 10% and nearly a quarter (24%) of drivers regularly exceed the speed limit by 20 per cent. Nationally, the 17-24 age group are the most likely to display bad speeding behaviours, with four fifths (81%) admitting to doing so. Drivers aged over 55 are
One of Cullum’s huge acoustic enclosures in production. recession that we were seeing all around us. Cullum have really grown as an organisation, we took on the challenge of the recession and hit it head-on,” Cullum’s managing director Bill Rigg explained. “Cullum put in place a five-year plan for growth, a lot of work on identifying how the business could improve, setting out our stall in investment in resource such that we could grow year on year though the next five years.” Part of the solution was to expand the customer base and explore new markets, but Cullum have also faced the constant problem experienced throughout industry, finding a balance of youth and experience
as that comes with an ageing workforce. “Like many other companies in engineering, we have a fair number of people who will be retiring within the next 10 or 15 years,” said Mr Rigg. “We have youngsters coming in from schools, colleges and university. In growing the business we need to have the right resource, with the right skill set to meet those growth needs. So we set about engaging with local schools and colleges, expanding the profile of our apprenticeships and we have continued that over many years. That’s not easy against a backdrop of less people being interested in engineering, technology and science.”
the safest when it comes to speed, with over a third (37%) saying they never display these behaviours. Men (74%) are marginally more likely to speed than women (72%). Despite this, the research reveals that over two thirds of drivers in the East Midlands (68%) believe that their driving has improved since they passed their test, with two thirds (68%) of drivers thinking that passengers who drive with them regularly would agree. However, when it comes to motorway driving, over two thirds (71%) of drivers admit to regularly driving badly. In addition to speeding, where 36% of drivers admit to driving 5mph over the speed limit, 34% 10mph over the speed limit and 19% 20mph or more over the speed limit drivers admit to regularly undertaking (12%), middle lane hogging (4%) and ignoring temporary speed limits(5.8%). Braking and cornering isn’t much better with over a third of drivers (35%) admitting to inappropriate behaviours, with over a tenth of drivers admitting to regularly braking late (12%). The research also shows that over a quarter (27%) of drivers in the East Midlands believe they wouldn’t be able to pass their driving test if they took it today. The main reason for this is because they have adopted bad driving habits (30%). Steve Kerrigan, Head of Telematics at The Cooperative Insurance said: “When you pass your driving test, you naturally begin to develop your own driving style which in many cases is different to the style you drove to pass your test. “However, drivers have a choice between driving courteously and safely, or making choices which could have a negative, even devastating, impact on other road users and pedestrians. Taking selfies and updating a social media status is simply not acceptable, or legal. “There is an understanding from drivers themselves that they generally have adopted bad driving behaviours. However, rather than simply acknowledge it they need to take action to drive safely for the benefit of other road users and the public. Telematics policies like The Co-operative’s Young Driver scheme are designed to help new drivers improve their style by providing feedback, for example when they are braking too hard or taking corners too fast. ”
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FERRERO BID FOR THORNTON’S CHOCOLATES Derbyshire luxury chocolatier Thornton’s is on the verge of being sold to Italian confectioner Ferrero International. The deal, which must still be approved by Thornton’s shareholders and competition regulators, is said to be in the region of £112 million. It will mark the loss of one of Britain’s last remaining home-grown chocolate brands to an overseas buyer. Cadbury and Green & Black’s were sold to the US confectionary business Kraft Foods Inc – now renamed Mondelez – in 2009 while Rowntree, the company which developed the Kit Kat and Aero, was sold to Nestlé in 1988. Still highly regarded locally, Thornton’s chocolate has lost some of its prestige nationally as European brands such as Lindt, which contains more cocoa, have gained ever larger shares of the market. Thornton’s has struggled to adapt to changing tastes as they shift towards darker chocolate and less sugary flavours. Successive bosses have found it hard to make its Derbyshire factory economically viable. A series of attempts to revive Thornton’s business has included opening its own stores and trying to expand into products such as ice cream and increasing sales through supermarkets. Ferrero International, whose lines include Nutella and Tic Tacs together with the foil-wrapped
Ferrero Rocher chocolates, said it was buying Thornton’s to expand its business in the UK. Ferrero has operated here for 60 years, but does not currently manufacture in the UK. Bosses have pledged to keep the Thorntons brand and its factory in Alfreton, where it employs around1,500 of its 3,500 staff. However, the future of Thorntons’ 242 stores in Britain and Ireland and its head office, which is also in Alfreton, are to be reviewed. As news of the offer was revealed, shares in Thorntons soared by nearly 43% to 145p, their highest level in over a year. The company’s board said it was giving the offer from Ferrero its “unanimous recommendation”. Thornton’s directors, including chairman Paul Wilkinson, and the departing chief executive, Jonathan Hart, have already sold shares to Ferrero, bringing Ferrero’s current investment to 29.9% of the company. Wilkinson will receive £2.2m for his stake in the company while Hart and his family are in line for about £380,000. He will also be paid his £350,000 salary for the next year after standing down. The board’s recommendation comes after yet another tough year for Thornton’s, which was forced to issue a profits warning
in December after orders from supermarkets were much lower than anticipated. Founded by Joseph Thornton in Sheffield, and using the slogan “chocolate heaven since 1911”, the company floated on the stock market in 1987 at a time when it enjoyed widespread popularity. Giovanni Ferrero, chief executive
of the family-owned Italian business, which launched from a pastry stall in the 1940s, said he had long admired Thornton’s and the customer loyalty it attracted. “This transaction brings together two highly complementary businesses, but more importantly unites two companies that share the same passion for growing
brands and a proud heritage, drive and culture built upon their family foundations.” The deal will enable Ferrero to step ahead of its Swiss rival Lindt to become the UK’s fourthlargest chocolate brand behind Mondelez, Mars and Nestlé. Ferrero currently has a 4% share of UK chocolate market, the same
Originally established over four decades ago, East End Foods plc has grown into one of the UK’s leading spice, lentil and rice specialists. The success of the company is due to the philosophy adopted by its founders, the Wouhra brothers, who only source the best raw materials, and maintain total control of the production process from start to finish. Seeing the growing demand and lack of availability of ethnic food products, the Wouhra brothers took action. Trilok, Tony Deep, Jas, David and Don Wouhra opened a small unit in Wolverhampton stocking raw ingredients and groceries. Having the shop and also delivering door to door, demand increased which enabled the business to grow and they branched into wholesaling, purchasing two units in Wolverhampton. Due to the success of the business East End moved to Birmingham in the 1970s. Setting up in Highgate supplying independent retailers, family owned stores and the growing number of Indian restaurants.
as Lindt, but this will rise to nearly 7% if the deal is completed Ferrero added: “We delivered our best ever results in the UK in 2014, giving us confidence that now is the right time to broaden our roots in this important market.”
Today East End Foods has grown to become the largest importer of ethnic foods in the UK. Carrying with it the reputation of being a trusted supplier of the highest quality of product. The product range includes spices, rice, lentils, pulses, pickles, accompaniments and authentic sauces. East End Foods pride themselves on their UK processing using state-of the-art machinery to clean and grind spices and they have blending facilities in-house to ensure the finest quality. Their lentils are polished and recleaned using the latest technology. They have installed their own rice mill to process Basmati rice which is milled to perfection. We also have a stone ground wheat flour mill for our popular Premium Gold Chappati Flour.
Issue 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 13
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MORE MEN ASKED TO The New & COMPLETE EDUCATION SURVEY Used Boat Derbyshire County Council wants to thank the hundreds of people who have already filled in a survey on what makes children ready for school – but now would like more men to complete it. Parents, grandparents, other family members, teachers, health workers – anyone with an interest in giving Derbyshire children a flying start to their school career – is asked to give the county council their views. The results of the survey will mean the council can help parents and childcare professionals make more young children ready for school. The survey is needed because school readiness can mean different things to different people. This can be difficult for the county council as it plans and develops support and services for children, families
The Earl of Doncaster Hotel The Earl of Doncaster Hotel is a stunning four star hotel based in South Yorkshire. It has welcomed thousands of visitors into its magnificent building since 1938 and is known fondly as ‘The Earl’ by loyal residents returning year after year. The Art Deco hotel boasts 73 beautiful bedrooms and a gorgeous Ballroom nestled on the first floor of the hotel. Its own in-built stage area, sprung dance floor and private bar means it is perfect for special events, festive functions and exclusive gatherings. Two further luxury reception suites accommodate intimate gatherings of 10 to a larger crowd of 200. The Earl has been hosting wedding receptions for over 50 years and more recently civil weddings since 1995. Couples can be allocated a dedicated Wedding Planner whose number one priority
Company
and the childcare professionals who work with them. Councillor Caitlin Bisknell, Deputy Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “We’re delighted with the response so far and we welcome everyone’s opinion but we don’t have as many responses from men as from women. We’re asking all men to give us their thoughts on what children need to know and what skills they need to have mastered before they start school. We also want more women to take part. “A clear definition of what being ready for school means will help all parents and professionals work towards common goals for children when they begin school.” People are asked to fill in the short survey by July The New & Used Boat Company are experts in 24. Visit: www.derbyshire.gov.uk/readyforschool canal boat hire located at Willington, Derbyshire. Specialising in day and weekend boat hire, The New and Used Boat Company is your one-stop shop for all your boating needs. is making sure your special day runs smoothly. Established in 2000, The New & Used Boat Company The Earl’s versatility means it caters for funerals, serves holiday-makers and boating enthusiasts conferences and corporate team-building events seeking affordable day and weekend excursions with a twist. As a newbie boater, you could be with a variety of layouts to suit all business needs. The Earl’s boutique restaurant offers a diverse range dipping your toe into the water to see what your first of delicious dishes to satisfy the most discerning of boating holiday would be like. Or you may well be diners. You can take Afternoon Tea and indulge a seasoned weekend boating hobbyist who likes to in light-as-air scones and velvety clotted cream, hire boats short-term. Whatever your style or reason, or tuck into a traditional Sunday Lunch where The New & Used Boat Company has something for succulent roasts and a carvery (to make Henry VIII everyone to suit all tastes and budgets. Hiring a boat can be ultimately exciting and perhaps envious) will be served for your delectation. The striking Art Deco hotel is the perfect venue and slightly daunting; do not fear because the beauty destination of choice for leisurely breaks, celebratory of boat hire is that no previous boating experience events and business meetings. Its unique character is necessary. The team will put you at ease with and quaint charm has led it to obtain an enviable a friendly hand-over process that will explain Certificate of Excellence from Trip Advisor, after everything you need to know about your wonderful garnering hundreds of consistently great reviews trip ahead. You can book online or pop into the Mercia Marina office to choose your boat. The handfrom happy travellers world-wide. A stay at The Earl will guarantee you leaving with over process including tuition is quick and simple a smile on your face and spring in your step. Don’t just take our word for it. Find out for yourself about the joys of The Earl of Doncaster and call now on 01302 361371 or go to website www.theearl.co.uk.
and you can be leaving with your dreamboat within 30 minutes from setting foot into the office. Hiring a boat for a lazy weekend of fishing, or daytrip to celebrate a special birthday couldn’t be easier. Rent charming narrowboats Tilly or Milly from the magnificent Mercia Marina base, for an unforgettable excursion. Both striking boats are furnished to a high standard and boast semi-traditional sterns with flush water toilets and hot and cold water sinks. They are fully equipped with everything you need for an enjoyable day out. Recharge your inner batteries, lounge on the snuggly soft deck seating and stock up your fridge with your favourite wine. You can breakfast on croissants at the picnic table as you cruise the beautiful sun-lit waterways of the Trent and Mersey Canal, whilst taking in the picturesque views of quaint villages passing by. If you fancy dining out, there are plenty of eateries on the canal stretch, where you can also stop off for a leisurely luncheon or delicious dinner. To hire a boat for a tranquil, relaxing day or weekend break, call The New & Used Boat Company now on 01283 707357 or go to website www. newandusedboat.co.uk.
Day boat hire launched at Mercia Marina
THE EARL OF DONCASTER
The Earl of Doncaster Hotel Accommodation * Weddings * Events * Dining * Conferences The Earl is one of Doncaster’s most exciting and unique venues located near the city centre. The Hotel has recently been refurbished back to its original art deco splendour, is easily accessible, and has free onsite parking Tel: 01302 361371
Web: www.theearl.co.uk
The Earl of Doncaster Hotel, Bennethorpe, Doncaster, DN2 6AD /theearlofdoncaster
/earlofdoncaster
/theearlofdoncaster
/theearl
Budding narrow boaters can now test the water at Mercia Marina with the launch of a self-drive dayhire boat service. The New & Used Boat Co., which has operated at the South Derbyshire marina since it opened in 2008, has made two boats – Milly and Tilly – available for day hire, weekends or short breaks. The company has equipped the boats with everything from comfortable deck seating and flushing toilets to fridge and cooking facilities, and one of the boats even has a shower. Although Mercia Marina has operated a captained trip boat service for a number of years as well as holiday boat hire via other businesses operating on the 74-acre marina – this is the first time members of the public have been able to take a boat out for a day trip. Tony Preston, sales and marketing manager at Mercia Marina, said: “We’re delighted that the New & Used Boat Company has been able to launch this service. It’s yet another fantastic way of encouraging more people to visit the marina and to enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of one of the most picturesque stretches of Britain’s canals. “With the growing popularity of our luxury holiday
lodges and the recent launch of The Boardwalk shopping and leisure development, the day-hire boat service is yet another positive move towards putting Mercia Marina firmly on the tourist map.” Staff at The New & Used Boat Co. will give tuition to anyone who has never sailed a narrow boat before, as well as providing waterproofs, life jackets and umbrellas. People who want to treat their family or friends to a day-trip on board Milly or Tilly can either pack their own food and drink or arrange to stop off at one of the many attractive eating pubs along the local stretch of the Trent and Mersey Canal. Milly can accommodate up to eight people for day trips between 10am and 4pm, at a daily cost of £149 during the week and £190 at weekends. Tilly is ideal for weekends or breaks, with sleeping accommodation for two people, at a cost of £149 per day during the week or £295 for the whole weekend. To hire a boat or for further information contact The New & Used Boat Co. on 01283 707357 or visit the sales office at the marina, in Findern Lane, near Willington.
Issue 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 15
Hire one of our traditional narrowboats - Milly or Tilly - and enjoy the tranquillity and sights of one of the UK’s loveliest stretches of waterway, lined with great eating pubs, picturesque villages and historical attractions.
We’ve thought of everything so you don’t have to. The boats are beautifully equipped with everything fromcomfortable deck seating to fridge and cooking facilities,and the weekend boat even has a shower.
Plus we provide essential waterproofs, life jackets and umbrellas - just in case. And if you’ve never sailed a narrowboat before, we’ll tell you everything you need to know. In fact, all you need to bring is food, drink and the holiday spirit!
BOAT FEATURES Semi traditional stern with seating Large front well deck with comfortable seating Fridge, Flush water toilets, Sink with hot & cold water Cooking facilities, Shower (weekend boat only)
TILLY
MILLY
30ft boat, ideal for day trips from 10am-4pm, for up to six people.
35ft boat, ideal for weekends and short breaks, sleeps two.
£149* – weekday (per day) £190* – weekend (per day) £250* – 2 Consecutive (weekdays) £295* – 2 Consecutive Days (incl Sat or Sun) £895* – Full week (7 days)
HIRE BOTH BOATS TOGETHER FOR UP TO 12 PEOPLE £250* – weekday (per day) £330* – weekend (per day)
01283 707 357 | www.newandusedboat.co.uk
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Issue 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 17
Whats On www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk
FLOWER POWER AT OSMASTON PARK
Sunday 19 July 11am - 4pm
Sunday 19 July 11am-4pm Osmaston Park is set in a stunning, privately owned 3000 acre park situated on the edge of the picturesque village of Osmaston in the Peak District. In this inspired setting, returning for a sixth year, will be Flower Power Fairs. At Osmaston Park Summer Plant Fair you’ll discover some of the North’s most passionate and knowledgeable nurseries and growers all keen to show you their range of rare and unusual plants and shrubs. This is all brought to you courtesy of Judy Popley of Flower Power Fairs on Sunday 19 July between 11am – 4pm. There’ll never be an opportunity like this to meet nurseries and growers all gathered together in one plant and shrub paradise. So whether you’re a serious gardener or starting from scratch there’ll be something there for everyone. You’ll even be able to get some handy tips on how to improve your
OSMASTON PARK SUMMER PLANT FAIR
soil, what to prune and when, how to divide your herbaceous borders, how to attract wildlife into your garden and even discover plants you can’t kill. Those of you looking for some green-fingered inspiration or a touch of garden wizardry will be able to choose from a range of ornamental shrubs, herbaceous perennials, lilies and chillies, alpines, hostas and herbs. Admission is £3.00 and includes the park, the grounds and the plant fair. Refreshments will be available all day and this year we introduce a new culinary business for our customers. Some of the proceeds of the Fair will be going towards the Peak District Mountain Rescue organization whose main aims are to save life and alleviate distress, primarily in Upland and Mountain areas and to co-ordinate all rescue incidents. To find Osmaston Park use the Sat Nav post code DE6 1LW and follow signs for Flower Power Fairs.
Flower Power Fairs is a Cheshire-based event company organising and staging specialist plant fairs at unusual and historic locations throughout the North of England. The Fairs bring together a unique selection of some of the best independent growers from six different Northern Counties including Shropshire, Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, Cheshire, Derbyshire, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, Lancashire and North Wales. To discover other Flower Power Fairs taking place in your area, visit our website at www.flowerpowerfairs.co.uk or contact Judy Popley on 07730 859441.
Summer colour, summer choices, summer treats! Huge selection of plants from hand picked growers and nurseries. Hundreds of quality plants, alpines, succulents, shrubs, trees and more.
ADMISSION £3.00**
Refreshments
Free Parking
** Proportion of proceeds to Peak District Mountain Rescue Organisation. Reg. Charity No 506681
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Issue 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 19
The Netherlands National Circus The Netherlands National Circus has rocked into Derby to provide show-stopping entertainment for the masses from 9th to 14th June 2015. Located at the Bass Recreation Ground, the international troupe is comprised of global superstars that will have you on the edge of your seat with breathtaking acrobatics and feats of wonder.
Hosted by Yasmine Smart from the famous Billy Smart clan, this very special showcase has been created to thrill audiences of all ages. The circus show includes captivating acts by illusionist ensemble The Jidinis and The Australian Flying Aces, an energetic trapeze act that performs in the air amidst gasps of wonder. Watch in amazement as Daragh the contortionist ties himself up in knots and be blown away by The Ethio Brothers’ awe-inspiring show of extreme strength and balance to make even the most hardened of yogis gaze in wonder. Also included in the imaginatively creative line-up is Alina, the stunning cube aerialist who will have your eyes spinning as she swirls her way around the Big Top stadium and into your heart. There is something for the little ones too, with ribtickling comedy sketches by Jonny Bogino and The Rampin Clowns, and Alex the Fireman with pyrotechnic problems to guarantee an entertaining time for all. For more information on The Netherlands National Circus and to find out more about their upcoming shows, go to website www.netherlandscircus. com. An unforgettable afternoon packed with tremendous tricks, marvellous magic and bucket loads of fabulous fun awaits.
Plant sale and show
Sunday, June 14, from 10am to 4pm at the Agricultural Business Centre, Agricultural Way, Bakewell, Derbyshire DE45 1AH
PIKEHALL HARNESS RACING Since the first meeting in 1998, Pikehall harness racing has gone from strength to strength, been featured on radio and television and is now one of the major Peak District attractions. The meetings attract an average of 1000 very enthusiastic spectators many of whom travel long distances. For the uninitiated, the horses, up to 10 in a race, race round a half mile track reaching speeds of 30mph. and unlike ordinary horse racing the horses pass close by the spectators and can be clearly seen all the way round the track. The top horses and drivers travel to Pikehall from all over the Country, so you can be sure of seeing the best. At Pikehall, you can also be assured of a
professional commentary from Darren Owen, one of the Countries leading race callers, who is regularly heard on all the TV racing channels and at all the major race courses. There are up to 12 Bookmakers, so everyone can have a flutter and cheer their horse home. So why not make a date in you diary for Sunday the 19th of July 2015 first race at 2pm and come along to see what has been described as ‘one of the most exiting spectator sports there is. Pikehall is situated 9 miles from Bakewell,12 miles from Buxton, 11 miles from Ashbourne and 10 miles from Matlock. Visit www.pikehallharnessracing.co.uk
Specialist nurseries offering thousands of unusual plants Hundreds of specimen plants on show grown by experts Discounted gardening and plant books for sale Refreshments For further information contact the Alpine Garden Society, Avon Bank, Pershore, Worcestershire WR10 3JP, phone 01386 554790 or visit our website
www.alpinegardensociety.net
Adults £10 Children (Under 16’s) FREE Over £3000 Gundog Prizes
THE GUNDOG & GAME FAIR 11th and 12th July 2015, Court Farm, Betley, Cheshire, CW3 9BH
High Gun £100 Each Day All Dogs Welcome.
• Two Main Arenas Running All Day
• Food and Drink
• Andy Cullen MBE and Laochin
• Terrier and Lurcher Show (Sunday Only)
Gundogs
• Flat line Lurcher and Terrier Racing
• Chris Green (The Countryman)
• Ferret Show and Racing
• Falconry Demonstrations
• Licensed Bar
• Protection Dog Demonstrations
• Craft and Antique Marquee
• Flyball
• Kids Zone• Air Rifles
• Clay Pigeon Shooting
• Stick Making
• Archery
• Cheshire 4x4 Club
• Gundog Scurries
• Gundog Dummy Throwing Competition
• .22 Rifle Range
• Fly Casting
• Meet the Breeds Marquee
• Fun Gundog Events
• Great Stalls and Stands
• Chainsaw Carving
www.thegundogandgamefair.com
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Issue 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 21
Discover hidden treasure for Dickinson’s Real Deal Show in Belper
Belper folk are rummaging through their attics, garages and old storage cupboards seeking hidden treasure to show at Dickinson’s Real Deal. The popular television series will be filming in Belper on Saturday 1st August 2015 at the Belper Leisure Centre on John O’ Gaunts Way, Belper. Getting the right deal is key and you will have the fun chance to meet David Dickinson and his team of fabulous dealers. Why let your antiques gather dust when you can choose the sweeter alternative of cool hard cash in the palm of your hand? It’s all a betting
game as you can take the money from the dealer on the spot, or if you’re secretly confident, take a gamble at auction. The choice is entirely yours and it is scenarios where people take a punt, that makes addictive viewing. The show is watched by over a million people and is currently in its twelfth series. Its enduring charm is seeing David Dickinson and the dealers travel the length and breadth of the country looking for more bobby dazzlers brought in by members of the public. David said: “It’s great to bring the show to Belper! I’m very much looking forward to visiting Derbyshire, an area of the country I love bringing the show to. I remember visiting the area last year; the items brought in were fantastic – great quality, with fabulous history and stories attached.”
There is a special sort of thrill at being at the Dealers’ Table. Past participants have walked away with £2,000 cash and you too could be quids in as you contemplate trading that dusty old pendant that has seen better days. As usual, David will be doing his rounds, keeping his keen eye on the deals and giving out advice on whether to snatch the cash out of the dealers’ hands, or play the long game and go for the hard gamble. Of course the final decision lies with our contributors and it’s up to them to decide what is the real deal. Members of the public are encouraged to bring along their antiques or collectables. They will be met by a team of independent valuers, who will be offering free advice on all items. Admission is free, you don’t need to book a ticket or register and doors
“It’s great to bring the show to Belper! I’m very much looking forward to visiting Derbyshire, an area of the country I love bringing the show to.“ will be open between 9am and 5pm. It is guaranteed to be a fun day out for the family, so what are you waiting for? Get down to Belper Leisure Centre on John O’ Gaunts Way, Belper for what could ultimately be, the real deal of your life.
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New Investment Tees Off Corporate Offering The Lost City Adventure Golf, one of Nottingham’s top leisure attractions, has invested £150,000 in a brand new bar and corporate events area as it looks to position itself as an alternative option for team building activities and corporate events. As well as refurbishing the main bar with an elaborate tiki theme, a dedicated event space and private bar has been added doubling the size of the area available for parties and events to 1,700 sq ft and increasing capacity of the venue as a whole 354. Lane Scott, Owner of The Lost City, said that the extension and refurbishment was a natural next step in the growth of the venue: “The redevelopment of the bar area represents a key milestone for us. It’s something we’ve been planning for a while and to say we’re delighted with the results is an understatement. “The facilities we now have enable us to offer an extended range of teambuilding and events packages so we can begin to seriously position ourselves as a credible option in the corporate events market. It is our ambition to become the ‘goto’ place in the local area for group activities that are a little bit different to the norm.” The new layout allows for much greater flexibility and means events can be tailored to meet individual needs, whether that be configuring the space in a particular way, using the plasma screens or offering
specific drinks from behind the bar. 2/… Event packages start from £11 per person and bespoke options can be created to meet the needs of events of any size or style. These include exclusive use of the 18-hole courses, tailored drinks packages, use of conference hosting facilities and a range of light refreshments. The bar redevelopment comes on the back of significant investment in new animatronics at the end of 2014 and demonstrates an ongoing confidence in Nottingham’s entertainment and leisure scene. £10,000 was spent on a life size alligator and 23ft snake took up residence just before Christmas and have been bringing the courses to life for intrepid adventurers ever since. Lane added, “This most recent investment is just the latest in a long line of plans to grow The Lost City into one of the top leisure attractions in Nottingham. We want to show that The Lost City is ready and able to deliver whatever the event may be, from a funfilled children’s party to a high energy teambuilding challenge.” The Lost City adventure golf is located in the Cornerhouse basement and is the first indoor course of its kind in the East Midlands. Open from 10.30a.m. to 11.00p.m on weekdays and 10.00am to 11.00pm on weekends it has become a hugely popular destination for all ages.
For more information and to stay up to date with the latest news and offers visit www.lostcityadventuregolf.com, like www.facebook.com/ lostcitynotts or follow @lostcitynotts on Twitter.
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Shugborough Estate gets ready for Great British Food Festival!
Preparations are well under way for the Great British Food Festival taking place at the stunning working estate at Shugbrorough nr Stafford over the 11th & 12th July. Lots of food producers and street food vendors will be busy pickling, preserving, baking and packing, jams, cakes, cheese, pates and lots of other tasty treats! Along with wonderful food and drink producers there will be fantastic free chef demos, foodie talks, man vs food competitions, kids entertainment and live music throughout the day. The Chef Demo stage hosts a headline name for each day, Luis Troyano (Great British Bake Off 2014) demoing on the Saturday and Luke Owen (MasterChef 2014) taking the lead on Sunday, They will each take centre stage at 12noon and 3pm on their respective days. Alongside the celeb chefs, some of the best regional talent will be showcasing their skills; so from baking tips to fine dining knowhow the demo theatre is the place to be for any budding chef. On top of cooking up treats on the demo stage, Luis & Luke will be helping to judge the popular Great British Cake Off, where amateur bakers compete head to head in two baking categories (see www.greatbritishfoodfestival.com for details and to enter), and best of all the public get to try every entry!
A popular addition to the programme of events has been the in-house Forager, Adele Nozedar, who leads small groups around the estate searching for wild foods. The walks take place daily and can be booked in advance or on the day. You can also see Adele in action on the artisan stage, cooking up some fabulous and unusual treats from the wild products she has foraged throughout the day. A real eye opener! There is entertainment for all the family throughout the weekend, including kid’s cookery lessons, FREE circus skills, FREE craft workshop, storytime and children’s rides. Live music from some great local bands can be heard throughout so you can do some shopping, grab some food and then have a well earned relax with a drink (or two)! Bring a blanket and sit out for the day enjoying great food and drink, live music and beautiful surroundings. The perfect recipe for a fun, foodie day out for the whole family. July 11th & 12th 2015, 10.00am-5pm Shugborough Estate, Stafford, ST17 0XB h t t p : / / w w w. g r e a t b r i t i s h f o o d f e s t i v a l . c o m / shugborough.asp info@greatbritishfoodfestival. com
PIKEHALL HARNESS RACES Sunday 19th July |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
Bakewell Show
Exciting changes are taking place at Bakewell Show - this year on August 5th and 6th with a dedicated equestrian day on August 4th - as organisers work hard to keep it fresh and relevant in its 185th year. A new website has been launched to make it quicker and easier for people to enter different classes, buy tickets and find out about attractions. It can be found at www.bakewellshow.org And the Wye Valley showground has been revamped to make it easier for visitors to get around. Following the merger of Members and Patrons of the show last year, entertainment facilities have been switched to the other side of the centre ring where the new marquee will serve not only traditional hot meals and afternoon teas, but also lighter bites for those not wanting full catering. The freed-up space will make room for more trade stands, food courts and seating for the general public. The public grandstand will stay in its original place. The village green will be bigger and for the first time the show will have its own Farmers' Market selling a selection of artisan bread, eggs, fruit, vegetables etc from local producers who currently trade at the
Farmers' Markets held regularly in the town. The Centre Ring attraction is the exciting Knights of the Damned team this year celebrating its 10th anniversary. With spectacular displays of bravery as well as jousting, the display has proved a great success at past shows. And it's something of a homecoming for the man behind the Knights, Justin Pearson, who used to take part in the Mounted Games at Bakewell Show. Of course there are also the regular attractions – including champion animals, mammoth vegetables, vintage vehicles, specialist food and the ever popular beach experience. We have a pair of tickets to give away – all you have to do to stand a chance of winning is to tell us the name of the Centre Ring attraction, and send the answer together with your name and address to sales@derbyshireguardian.co.uk Pre-show tickets are £15.50 for adults and £13.50 for seniors with one the gate prices £16.50 for adults and £14.50 for seniors. Children under 16 are admitted free when accompanied by an adults. There is a nominal charge for visitors to the equestrian day on August 4th.
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WHAT IS SOUL SURVIVOR?
If you’ve not come across us at Soul Survivor before, we’re passionate about putting on events for young people that are all about exploring the Christian faith. Each summer we run a number of five-day camping events around the UK aimed at secondary school age and our event in Stafford is held at the County Showground. The focus of our five days will be the main meetings where thousands join together twice a day. We’ll also have a load of seminars on a range of helpful topics as well as cafes, sports, films, a resource area and some fun pop-up events including a UV paint party, silent disco and a foam fun-day! To find out more and to book on visit www. soulsurvivor.com.
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A REVOLUTION IS COMING Three unveils new TV campaign starring purple puppet The latest campaign from Three will launch on Friday 5th June, introducing a new loveable character, called Jackson, to TV screens for the very first time. The new ad, which is set to East 17’s nineties hit, ‘It’s Alright’, stars Jackson, a purple puppet created by the world famous Jim Henson’s Creature Shop, renowned for inventing The Muppets. Dejected, beaten down and damp, Jackson cuts a sorry figure in the big dark city as the story unfolds. But as he reaches his lowest ebb, Jackson remembers an old family mantra, and is suddenly transformed. Galvanised into action, he then spreads the song’s reassuring message to characters in all sorts of sticky situations. Just like Jackson, Three is leading a movement for positive change The network is rallying the British public to take a stand and unite against network gripes – from high roaming costs to charging a premium for 4G. When stuff sucks, Three is pledging to #makeitright. Dave Dyson, CEO at Three, commented: “We want to entertain people with this advert, but also want to introduce a more serious message with the #MakeItRight campaign. Jackson might be a loveable puppet – but he was once downtrodden and treated unfairly – just like many mobile customers. At Three our
purpose is to change that. We’re taking a stand to #MakeItRight by not charging our customers to use their phones abroad in even more destinations, for example”. The advert follows Jackson’s emotion-filled journey as he transforms from downtrodden puppet to that of revolutionary leader, raising his triumphant fist as a symbol to show anything is possible. Jason Weber, Creative Supervisor of Jim Henson’s Creature Shop said: “Three came to us with a fun idea to create a puppet character that can express the way we all feel when things don’t go our way and then the exact opposite – the sheer exhilaration of believing anything is possible. Puppets are at their best when they emote familiar feelings or ideas that anyone can relate to and Jackson is definitely someone we can all connect with.” The 90 second ad campaign launches on Friday 5th June during Big Brother on Channel 5, with further scheduling throughout the weekend, including spots during 8 Out Of Ten Cats, Alan Carr Chatty Man and Emmerdale. Last year Three’s 2014 viral advert #SingItKitty became a global hit, with more than 6 million hits on YouTube. The advert featured Starship’s power anthem, ‘We Built This City’, and turned a shared
moment between a young girl and her adorably cute pet kitten into an epic journey that saw the duo belt out a powerful rendition of the song, whilst tearing up the cul-desac on a pink tricycle. When stuff sucks, #MakeItRight It sucks having no signal and not being able to make a call or roam the internet when you’re out and about. Three has been rated the most reliable network in the UK by YouGov for calls, texts and data and is continuing to improve its network in 2015. Having to pay huge roaming fees to share photos of your hot dog legs on holiday sucks. On Three you can use your phone abroad at no extra cost to call and text back home and use your data in even more destinations, including the USA, Australia, France, Italy and now Spain. Paying extra for 4G sucks. Three believes you should get fast Internet without having to pay extra. That’s why 4G comes as standard on all of Three’s plans. Being charged to make 0800 calls sucks, they are calls you have to make, not calls you want to make. That’s why Three was the first network to make all 0800 calls free on its new 24 month contract plans.
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A Festival of Fireworks!
The Festival of Fireworks was inaugurated in 1999 at Shugborough Hall – featuring five British companies who were given the opportunity to demonstrate their work alongside each other. The event, the first of its kind in the UK, proved to be a success, with each participant making a great effort to show off their pyrotechnic design skills. Sixteen years on, the Festival of Fireworks is now well-established as one of the premier events in the annual fireworks calendar, attracting thousands of spectators to its new home in the elegant grounds of Catton Hall in South Derbyshire. In recent years, the Festival has acquired something of an international flavour – with firework display teams from europe and the far-east making an appearance. The 2015 event will feature HC
Pyrotechnics from Belgium, award-winning Sirotechnics from Birmingham, Woking-based Dragon Fireworks and festival organisers Jubilee Fireworks, whose outstanding displays are seen at many major UK venues, including Alton Towers. The Festival of Fireworks offers the opportunity to experience for yourself spectacular and stunning examples of the art of pyrotechnics from some of the world’s best display companies. Ideal for a family outing, why not bring a picnic and enjoy this breathtaking show? The date for 2015 is Saturday September 5th and its worth reserving tickets well in advance. ‘Early Bird’ discounted ticket prices apply before the end of June. More more information, please call 01384 402266 or visit www.jubileefireworks.com
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Kids Corner www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk
New Sheffield fitness sessions for city mums A new fitness and nutrition brand, aimed at promoting wellbeing in new and soon-to-be mums, has launched in Sheffield. MummyFIT aims to help mums in the city achieve their health and nutrition goals, as well as providing a place they can bring their babies and socialise together. And now the brand has partnered up with Sheffield Hospitals Charity to support Jessops Hospital, where more than 7,000 babies are born each year. Managing director of MummyFIT, Jenny Whiteley, aged 38, of Ecclesall, said: “For every mum and baby that attends a MummyFIT class in the city, we will give a donation to the hospital charity, meaning the fitter and healthier you get, the more money we donate. “I’ve lived in Sheffield for the past three years and gave birth to my second son at Jessops. The staff there do a fabulous job but, like most of our hospitals, funding is always tight so it will be very rewarding to be contributing towards such a great cause.” Health and Fitness coach Jenny, who used to work for B Braun Medical Ltd, is the brains behind MummyFIT and set up the business soon after the birth of her second son Charlie, now 14 months, following more than a decade on the corporate
ladder. Jenny, who is also mum to Lucas, five, told The Star: “Being pregnant and looking after a new born are both very tiring on your body and emotions and I know firsthand that doing something for yourself is often relegated very far down your list of things to do. “When I was pregnant, I found so many benefits to exercising and eating the right food. It’s also a great way of bonding with other mums, at a time when you need support and to feel good about yourself. I felt really passionately about creating a likeminded exercise network to offer support when its needed most.” Jenny launched classes all over the region earlier this month, at Prime Mover venues, in the city centre, at Meadowhall, and at Born2Move in Bakewell. She said: “Exercising during your pregnancy has proven to help control your weight, help with posture, increase strength, improve your mindset and you will get back to your ideal weight quicker following the birth of your baby. “Being a mum is amazing but it isn’t without its challenges - and that’s why we are here!” A timetable of MummyFIT classes is available at www.mummyfituk.co.uk
Cheeky? Cute? Chic? Your little one probably ticks all these boxes… But where does messy fit in? Elen Studio Photography provides unique and fun photographic experiences for you and your baby. One of our most popular themes is the ‘cake smash’, where your baby gets to explore and investigate the messy delights of a gooey cake whilst we capture the moment in a series of professional photographs. The benefits of messy play for babies are well known and range from improving hand eye co-ordination to the development of fine motor skills. Giving your child the opportunity to stimulate their senses and experience a variety of textures can aid their general development as well as provide a great subject for photography.
We focus on providing a photoshoot that’s relaxing and enjoyable, allowing plenty of time so that everything is led by you and baby. Children simply love being able to satisfy their sense of curiosity and fun in these sessions, and mums enjoy seeing their little ones getting messy without the stress of cleaning the house afterwards! Cake smash photography is a great way of capturing and celebrating your baby’s first birthday. It’s a time when their personality is developing quickly, and before you know it they’re crawling and moving on to the next stage of their development.
BRIAN THOMAS
KIDS FOOTBALL HEADBOARDS
DERBY COUNTY FOOTBALL CLUB
Our headboards are available in a large selection of colours including multi-colour designs and come with your choice of football club badge or personalised badge. All our headboards are made to order in our own workshops and are manufactured from quality materials all sourced within the UK.
Headboards sizes are 2’6” or 3’0” wide x 20” high. We can produce any colour combination of your choice.
Tel: 01243 378930 www.kidsfootballheadboards.com E-mail: b.thomas124@btinternet.com
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East Midlands Photographer Warns Parents to Keep Babies Safe We’ve all seen photographs of beautiful newborn babies in baskets or nestling in the palm of a doting dads hand, but an East Midlands photographer is warning parents to be careful when booking these sessions and has issued some safety tips. Kay Oliver owner of Kay Oliver Photography based in Sawley warns that whilst new born photography is becoming more popular not all photographers have the necessary training to ensure that the shoots are safe. Following reports that two babies were injured after falling during sessions with a high street photographer Kay, who has been in business for 19 years wants to make more parents aware of the risks of not researching their newborn photographer. Parents wanting artistic images of their newborns are on the increase and a search of the internet will find a number of adorable images and even some eye-opening you-tube videos of people attempting to create their own shots at home. Kay who is fully trained in newborn photography has photographed 1000’s of families and has been photographing babies for 14 years says: “With newborn photography becoming more and more popular it is scary how many general photographers have started photographing newborns without any training and without knowing about the safety aspect of this style of photography. There has also been a rise in parents copying the new-born photography they see on photos without knowing how they are done.” “There are lots of gorgeous poses that babies can be put into but not all babies are comfortable in every pose so for this reason a photographer should not guarantee any poses before the session. Your baby should guide the session and the let the photographer know what is comfortable for them.”
With this in mind Kay has outlined some of the key tips for parents taking their babies to shoots: • • • • • •
Never leave your baby unattended during a session Always stay next to your baby when props are in use Make sure the photographer never uses glass props Ensure all props are checked for sharp edges and sturdiness before use Never force a baby into any pose always use gentle movements to position them comfortably Make sure the photographer never stands on anything over the baby
Kay advises that if in doubt, a good way to find out if your photographer is practicing safe conduct is to go onto the Baby and Newborn Photography Association (BANPAS) website where parents can search for fully insured photographers in their area. Helen McGlynn, Co-owner of BANPAS said “"As an association, BANPAS are very concerned that amateur or hobbyist photographers may try to recreate some of the complex poses which require expertise in both photography and editing. Newborn photography requires patience and skill - our clients are delicate new-born babies. We are keen on raising awareness amongst parents on how to choose a safe photographer, as shown in the beautiful work produced by Kay" To find an approved photographer visit www.banpas. co.uk To find out more about Kay Oliver Photography visit www.kayoliverphotography.co.uk call 07989 322308 or email info@kayoliverphotography.co.uk
The most wonderful moment in your lives. Your world is set to change forever. You want to preserve every detail - right from the second those tiny little fingers and toes begin to wiggle at you! You need Kay Oliver Photography. Kay, herself a mother of two young boys, is an awardwinning photographer who knows just how important it is to expertly capture those first moments in the world and preserve them for always. With over 14 years of experience in photographing newborns and children she has the skill, training, experience, the vision and the all-important caring and sympathetic touch needed to turn memories into art.
A Kay Oliver Photography experience is a memorable one too! From Newborn Art photography through to ‘Trash The Cake’ sessions for 1st and 2nd birthday babies, Kay’s sessions are a seamless mix of fun and professionalism. Special packages for maternity and baby photos are also available. Kay is often booked well in advance – so give her a call now to discuss your needs and wishes. No matter when your baby is due, Kay is flexible enough to work to your due date and can even squeeze in a late booking if your baby has already arrived. Kay Oliver Photography Capturing Memories to Treasure Always
Tel: 07989 322308 Website: www.kayoliverphotography.co.uk
Catherine Dickens Smallprint Jewellery Catherine Dickens has been delighting people with personalised hand-crafted fine silver jewellery for more than three years. The unique jewellery items allow a precious moment in time to be captured in 99 per cent pure silver. A child’s tiny fingerprint, hand or foot print can be captured and used to make a wide range of jewellery items including pendants, charms, cufflinks, keyrings, bracelets and more. Catherine runs the Derbyshire franchise Smallprint - the original silver keepsake company - which has been delighting customers all over the world since 2004. She loves giving people the opportunity to own highly personalised gifts which celebrate a loved one - whether a child, young adult or significant other - in such a unique manner. The high quality silver keepsakes can last a lifetime and Catherine makes it really easy for people to get their items made. She often visits special events throughout Derbyshire
and will be at the Ashover Show on August 12 where she can take prints and answer any questions people may have. Catherine also attends many baby shows and baby markets throughout the region as it is very popular for people to have personalised jewellery made to celebrate a new arrival into the family. Catherine said: “I am happy to bring all my samples and print-taking kit along to your toddler group and take prints for you and your friends at your local toddler group. “I can also visit clients at their homes and a lot of people like to organise a get together of friends so they can find out more about the jewellery and have prints taken at home. “There are also great savings to be made for the hostess of these events and they prove exceptionally popular.” Catherine is happy to answer any questions you may have and you can contact her via her Smallprint webpage where all her contact details are listed.
Simply visit www.smallprint.com/ catherinedickens for more information.
Capture your child’s fingerprint, hand & footprints, drawings or writing in fine silver • Pendants • Charms • Cufflinks • Keyrings
www.smallprint.com to book to have prints taken please contact Catherine: m: 07708 150290 e: catherine.dickens@smallp.co.uk Smallprint Silver Fingerprint Jewellery Derbyshire
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Healthy Living www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk
HOOKED ON FITNESS Hooked on Fitness is a new health and wellbeing facility opening in Darley Dale this month. Owners Jo and Becky have a wealth of experience in their respective fields. Jo qualified as a physiotherapist from Sheffield Hallam University in 2007 and has since specialised solely on musculoskeletal rehabilitation with particular emphasis on neck, back and shoulder conditions. Becky qualified as a personal trainer in 2007 and subsequently gained her degree in sports exercise and coaching. Becky has continued to develop her expertise to offer a wide variety of classes and exercise methods and is also qualified to take G.P. referrals for clients under a doctor’s care for exercise. The idea of working together first came when Jo started seeing Becky as a client. “I was fed up with joining gyms and not getting results. I would do the same things each visit, get bored and leave feeling that I’d not achieved
anything. Working with Becky changed all that. She works me harder then I would myself but makes it fun, so I now love exercising! It seemed obvious to me that there must be more people like me out there, and that if we joined forces we could help more people get fitter, get rid of their pain and achieve their goals, whether that’s dropping a dress size or getting back to doing the things they love.” “My situation before meeting Jo was awful. I’d hurt my back at work and literally couldn’t move! I’d tried other physios and been given exercises which just didn’t work. Jo got to work straightaway. She’s very hands-on, pinpoints the problem and helped me understand what’s wrong. She also gave me a thorough plan on how to move forward, which was reassuring. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed every minute of my treatments. I’m now at a point where I can enjoy the things I
love again. I’m back riding my horse, and even trying Pilates on horseback!” Nikki. “Before working with Becky I’d got in to a rut of feeling bad about myself but not doing anything about it. I hated going shopping or nights out. I was worried that I wouldn’t have the motivation to exercise so often but I have really enjoyed our sessions, even at 6.30 in the morning! It seems easy… you don’t realise how hard you’re working when you’re laughing your head off, and it’s much better than a gym class as it’s tailored to suit me. I lost a stone in the first month which did wonders for my confidence and recently I also confidently completed a spring triathlon!” Claire. On Saturday 13th June we’ll be opening our doors for the first time. Come and see us for a fun filled day. Bring the kids, try a taster session, have a chat to Jo and Becky and have the chance to win one of Hooked on Fitness’s fabulous packages! We look forward to seeing you there!
The Homestead Retreat
The Homestead Retreat is Derby’s new luxury day spa and urban beauty sanctuary with a difference. Housed in a stunning Grade I listed Georgian building on exclusive grounds, it is the perfect place to unwind. Its ideal setting on the outskirts of Derby city centre means it is easy to access, whilst spagoers can revel in tranquil surroundings as they enjoy lush scenery. There are a variety of spa packages to suit every taste. Facial treatments include the Meso-Lift Facial which lifts, tones and tightens the skin for that fresh and vibrant look. The Thalgo Eye Expert meanwhile, is an ultra-relaxing treatment that includes an intense cleanse and gentle massage of the eye area. You can chill out in the hot-tub or sip coffee in the oak panelled dining room in the afternoon. Whatever season you take your spa-break, rest assured you will enjoy the beautiful décor and first class hospitality at all times. This family-run business has four dedicated treatment rooms, Medi-Spa and offers various luxury
and traditional spa and beauty treatments. From Swedish massages to manicures and pedicures, there is something for everyone to indulge in. Loyal customers continue to vote with their feet and happy, satisfied spa-goers have helped cement the stellar reputation of The Homestead Retreat. It boasts an impressive five star rating from every single customer review on Trip Advisor and Facebook. Visitors new and old alike are treated like VIPs and receive exemplary customer service, ensuring return visits are packed with fun and enjoyable moments. For groups of 12 or more, you can have your day package on an exclusive basis where we close the gates to the public. The Homestead Retreat is the place to be for a well deserved break, much needed TLC or celebratory gift for that special someone in your life. If you want to recharge your batteries, earn some brownie points of a partner, or just take time out to unwind, call The Homestead Retreat now on 01332 673 807 or go to website www. thehomesteadretreat.co.uk.
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Derby Girls Can
Restaurant Review
The campaign that got the nation talking in January is back Billboards feature new ‘girls that can’ taking part in summer sports Rachel from Derby appears on posters to celebrate and inspire women across the country to get active Following a phenomenal response to the launch of the This Girl Can campaign, another burst of the ground-breaking advertising went live on 15th June, including posters with Rachel Murray from Mickleover in Derby declaring she ‘Tried hitting the gym. Preferred hitting ball’. Rachel is one of the new ‘girls that can’ appearing on billboards around the country to celebrate and inspire women everywhere. The posters feature women of all shapes, sizes and sporting abilities, who proudly jiggle and sweat as they enjoy a new range of summer activities, including ravercise and rounders. Rachel, 24, is a keen volleyball player. She said: “I work full time as a Cardiac Physiologist and I’m currently doing a part time masters in Cardiac Science, so life is pretty full on and I don’t have
much spare time. But I will always make time for volleyball. It doesn’t even really feel like exercise, it is pure fun. That’s the advice I’d give to people who want to start playing a sport but are worried about the time commitment – find something you enjoy doing, that’s the best way to truly make exercise a part of your life.” Alongside the new campaign billboards, Sport England has unveiled a host of new ways for women to join in and celebrate how they get active, and inspire other girls like them to do the same. Driven by popular demand from women themselves, Sport England has partnered with Marks and Spencer to sell a limited edition This Girl Can t-shirt. The t-shirts, which are available in sizes 8 – 24, can be purchased from selected Marks and
Wonky Table
Spencer stores, including those in Staffordshire, Birmingham and Nottingham. Priced at £12.50, £1 from every
t-shirt sold will be used by Sport England to fund projects to help women get more active. Since the campaign launched, the appetite among women to join in, share and celebrate their real experiences of being active has been huge, and with almost 350,000 social media interactions, the campaign is directly engaging with thousands of women and girls across the country. The social media community has now grown to 330,000, and every day demand for more opportunities to get involved increases. In response, Sport England has launched a This Girl Can mobile web app, which will help women to create and share their own personalised version of the advert via http://app.thisgirlcan.co.uk/ Women can upload their own This Girl Can style picture – whether that’s them finishing their first 5K run or returning to rounders – choose a campaign mantra such as “Hot and Not Bothered” and add the This Girl Can logo Anyone who uses the app may even end up featuring in the campaign, as from the end of June the best pictures will feature on digital sites in shopping centres around the country The response has already been really positive, with more than 2,000 pictures uploaded since the app went live on 5 June. Jennie Price, Sport England Chief Executive, said: “We are extremely excited to be back for summer with new activities and our new ‘girls that can’, including Rachel. When we developed This Girl Can, we focussed on the fear of judgement and this has resonated with women across the world. I have been overwhelmed by how many women have wanted to be part of the campaign, to share it, celebrate it, and own it for themselves.” To find out more, visit thisgirlcan. co.uk, join the conversation by following @ThisGirlCan and using the hashtag #ThisGirlCan.
I’ve been flirting with the idea of “going veggie” for a while, so imagine my surprise when I heard about the Wonky Table’s Vegetarian Night. What better way to see if I can embrace vegetarianism than a little taster? And so I found myself making a booking and strolling through Derby city centre one fine Wednesday evening to the Wonky Table restaurant nestled in the midst of Sadler Gate. It’s a cosy space and the first thing that hits you is the warmth of a heartfelt welcome. Me and my dining partner were shown to our seat and promptly handed the five course set menu and drinks menu. The drinks list is comprehensive and with a diverse range of cocktails, there is something to suit every palate. It was an interesting food menu and I was excited to sample vegetarian culinary delights to tickle my otherwise carnivorous taste-buds. I don’t know why I was surprised, but the restaurant was seated to full capacity. I always considered vegetarianism the reserve of tree-hugging trippy hippy types – boy was I wrong. Back in the day circa 1980 (I hail from a family of vegetarians), eating out meant an extremely limited menu consisting of chips (and soggy salad at a push). This is definitely not the case today. Being vegetarian is obviously en vogue. Vegetables have become sexy with spiralisers courtesy of Hemsley and Hemsley and the slew of glowing celebrities from the healthy eating brigade. Now, people are getting creative in the kitchen and experimenting with vegetables and food in ways never seen before. This innovative sampling is exactly what was on offer at the Wonky Table. We kicked off with the Chilled Pea Velouté that was velvety smooth and the ribbons of mint were a nice refreshing touch. I then chose the Best of British Garden Salad, which consisted of buttery Jersey Royals, chunky broad beans, asparagus, pea shoots, radishes and Salsa Verdi. The wild garlic brought the dish together (I’m a huge fan of garlic, vampires would hate me, seriously) and this was my favourite dish of the menu. I could chow on vat-fuls of this dish, it really was that delicious. My dining partner was very happy with his Mirin-marinated Vegetable Sushi, with wasabi, herbs and soy dressing. He’s a big fan of sushi and said he didn’t really miss the fish, due to
it being perfectly seasoned and “tasty as hell”. The Gin and Tonic Slushie was a great little palate cleanser just before my main arrived. I had Jamaican Rundown Vegetables in a coconut and chilli sauce with a fried dumpling atop the tropical goodness. The delicately unctuous sauce was creamy, and the highlight was the fried, light-as-air dumpling, which I polished off faster than you can say “you greedy thing!” My dining partner stuck with the oriental theme and tucked into his Wild Mushroom and Rice Noodle Thai Broth. The earthiness of the meaty mushrooms gave the dish added depth whilst the broth was lip-smackingly good. I finished with Caramelised Peaches, Hickory Smoked Orange, Candied Hazelnuts and Swedish Glace. The pairing of burnished fleshy peaches with smoked orange was inspired and heaven on a plate, whilst my dining partner’s Vanilla Poached Pear, Elderflower Sorbet and Salted Almond and Apricot Crumb was inventive and moreish. To round off, the food was beautiful and tasty – and I am exceedingly happy that I live in the vicinity of the Wonky Table. I’d happily forgo my carnivorous intentions if I could eat at the Wonky Vegetarian every night. This inspired dining evening takes place on the first Wednesday of every month. Why not do yourself a favour and check it out? 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: 10 Value for money: 10 Ambience: 10 Rate or Slate? Rate. A five course tasting menu costs £22.95 per person, with cocktails starting from £5.95. Address: 32-33 Sadler Gate, Derby DE1 3NR. Tel: 01332 295000 Website: www.wonkytable. co.uk
by Ria Amber Tesia - Food Correspondent
34 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 30
Come visit us at The Homestead Retreat As soon as you set your eyes on this stunning Grade 1 Listed Georgian Building you will see Quality, Excellence and Class. Straight away you will share our vision that with its imposing faรงade and original features set in secluded grounds all on the edge of the City of Derby it is the perfect retreat to house our own Day Spa. An urban retreat to unwind in the Hot Tub, take coffee in the Oak Panelled Dining Room or simply drift away whilst having one of our extensive range of Luxury Spa Treatments by Thalgo. A vision built around a passion for service in the solitude of this magnificent home steeped in history. A vision built around satisfying the need to take a break from your busy lifestyle but without the need to travel too far from home.
Standard Opening Hours: 09:30 - 19:00 For further information or to book, contact us on 01332 673807 or visit us at www.thehomesteadretreat.co.uk
Issue 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 35
Weddings www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk
• •
Ensure it fits within your wedding budget View the venue to make sure it will fit the capacity of your guest list • Sign a contract once you’re happy with the terms and conditions being offered • Don’t hand over a deposit unless you’re 100% sure of your wedding date and the details of your day and finally • Be sure that you are both happy and comfortable with your chosen wedding venue choice The same website also revealed that when it comes to UK weddings, we are a nation of traditionalists with 78 per cent of brides surveyed saying they would follow the “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue” tradition for their big day. The UK's wedding industry is worth more than £10 billion a year which makes it an expensive and often stressful occasion for which to plan. It should go without saying that planning is key… from sorting out everything from the engagement announcement to the big day and the honeymoon could take many months or planning…or even more. One of the most important considerations is the location that the wedding itself and a lot of thought and planning must go into getting the right venue. According to the weddings website Hitched W.I.F.E. here are some top tips for choosing the perfect wedding venue:
Wedding Fair 12th July 2015
It is thought that wearing something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue will bring good luck to the bearer and can include anything and everything from jewellery to headwear, an old wedding dress, a blue garter and more! The 2014 Wedding Report from confetti.co.uk showed that the top three venues were churches, hotels and castles followed by registry office weddings and then weddings abroad.
From 11am - 3pm
The average age for a groom is 30 with the bride 28 and, on average, UK couples will have spent 2.5 years living together before tying the knot.
Get Inspiration
The most popular wedding tradition is cutting the cake and the most popular honeymoon destinations are Mexico, Mauritius and the Maldives.
Meet Suppliers • Special Offers Come and see Woodborough Hall! 1 Bank Hill, Woodborough Hall, Nottingham, NG14 6EF | Enquiries@woodboroughhall.co.uk
Education 36 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 30
www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk
University receives £437,000 boost to help Derby’s residents get moving
The University of Derby has been awarded £437,376 from Sport England to help fund a new project aimed at encouraging inactive people to take part in sport. The project, named ‘Derby a City on the move’, will examine the positive impact of sport on individual health and wellbeing. It is one of only two universities to receive National Lottery funding from Sport England in the second round announcements for their UK-wide ‘Get Healthy, Get Active’ programme. The University will be leading on the Sport England award as part of a partnership developed by Derby City Council and including the University, Sporting Futures, and Derby County Community Trust, Derby College and Derby City Council – Livewell, who will work together to deliver the goals of this ambitious project. Research shows around 15 million people in England have a long-term health condition. Partaking in sport at least once a week could reduce a person’s chance of developing coronary heart disease, diabetes, stroke, cancer and dementia. ‘Derby a City on the move’ will target 5,500 inactive people with one or more non-communicable disease (NCD) risk factors such as high blood pressure and obesity over three years. Individual changes in behaviour will be monitored over a period of twelve months to see how sport can improve a person’s health and general wellbeing. A series of ‘Get on the move’ interventions will be offered as part of the project. These interventions will target a range of ages, genders and health intolerances for instance impaired glucose
tolerance to measure the role of sport in changing health inequalities within the city. Sport England’s ‘Get Healthy, Get Active’ programme aims to encourage more inactive people to take part in sport at least once a week. Over 10,000 people have engaged with the scheme already. Professor Nick Draper, Head of the Department for Life Sciences at the University of Derby, said: “We have developed an excellent partnership with Derby City Council over the past two years. Together with the other partners we have been developing a physical activity strategy for the city and this project forms a cornerstone of the delivery of the strategy. “The University will deliver the necessary research to measure the project’s impact and create a new brand of physical activity specialist. We are grateful to Sport England for their substantial contribution and promotion of physical activity through projects such as ours and others which are vital to helping the nation get moving. “Their grant will enable us to look more closely at the potential of the methods being trialled through the research.” Mike Diaper, Director of Community Sport at Sport England, added: “Physical activity plays a powerful role in improving people’s health. The ‘Derby a City on the Move’ project will highlight this by placing the emphasis on prevention of serious health problems.” For more information about the sport offer at the University of Derby, please visit: www.derby.ac.uk/ campus/sport.
Open Door Adult Learning Centre The Open Door Adult Learning Centre is a leading learning services provider based in Sheffield. It offers affordable learning options in a diverse range of courses to suit every taste and budget. From ‘Mental Health Awareness’ to ‘Making it in Fashion’, there is something for everyone at the Open Door Adult Learning Centre. Achieving charitable status after its recognition of
diligent work in the community, one of the Open Door Adult Learning Centre’s key aims is inclusivity. It aims to aid community regeneration by providing training courses to all, irrespective of age, race, disability, ethnicity or gender. The ethos of making learning accessible for the local community is quite literal, as frequent buses stop within yards of the centre.
For more information please call 0114 264 8101 now, or go to website www.opendoor-learn.com to see how the Open Door Learning Centre can help you on your learning journey.
OPEN DOOR ADULT LEARNING CENTRE
Come and learn something new with the Open Door Adult Learning Centre » With a warm & friendly atmosphere to learn new skills » Great advice and support, from everyone » Local learning at a time to suit all » Visit our website at www.opendoor-learn. com or email info@opendoor-learn.com IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS, OR IMPROVE YOUR JOB PROSPECTS CONTACT THE ADULT LEARNING CENTRE ON 0114 2648101
Webs Training Are you are interested in finding a position as an apprentice where you can get paid as you learn new skills? Webs Training is one of the country’s leading organisations when it comes to furniture manufacturing apprenticeship training. Apprentices are trained by fully qualified instructors with relevant industry experience and who are passionate about bringing out the very best in young people.
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
LeaderflushShapland Laidlaw, the UK’s leading performance timber doorset manufacturer, is one of the companies which has partnered with Webs Training and it is looking to take on new apprentices. There are vacancies for a number of production apprentices to start training from 1st September 2015 at the company’s Mansfield and Langley Mill sites with programs available in wood machining, engineering and administration. Two open days are being held on the 16th July and 6th August from 10am until 2pm at the Langley Mill manufacturing site. This is an ideal opportunity for anyone considering an apprenticeship and their families to come along and learn more about the business, the apprentice programme being offered and to see if the opportunity is right for you. There are many benefits to becoming an apprentice, not least of all the fact that you can earn a wage while you learn your trade. Learning is done through hands-on experience and on-the-job training by friendly, qualified and knowledgeable instructors who know exactly what it is like to train as an apprentice.
Apprentices can also gain these benefits: - Earn money, get qualified, gain experience - Receive relevant training in a chosen trade and improve career prospects - Gain nationally recognised qualifications - Learn job specific skills - Receive support during training - An excellent alternative to University
Opportunities. With a Level 2 apprenticeship, you can start working towards the Advanced Level 3 in Supervision. Now that you have gained valuable experience in a manufacturing environment, you may want to develop your skills to the next level and start to think about becoming a team leader or even a supervisor. This qualification will help you to develop and nurture the skills you already have and enable you to pass on your experience to others. If you can get to one of the open days then all of your questions can be answered then or if you cannot make it and you want to learn more about the apprenticeship opportunities available then you can: Contact Lorraine or Andrea on 0115 9677771 or write to her at WEBS Training Ltd, The Poplars, Wollaton Road, Beeston, NG9 2PD Submit an enquiry via the website at www. webstraining.com - Email LeaderflushShapland Laidlaw apprentice@leaderflushshapland.co.uk
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Issue 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 37
Nationwide search is on for the UK’s best young adventurers
A national search for the UK’s most adventurous youngsters has been launched by the University of Derby. The best rock climbers, sailors, cyclists, runners, cavers, kayakers, bikers and skateboarders are being sought for the UK’s Young Adventurers Awards 2015. Nominations are now open for the awards, which aim to recognise youngsters who excel at adventure sports and push boundaries to reach their potential. This year there are four categories for the competition; Junior Adventurer of the Year (aged 7-11), Adventurer of the Year (aged 12-17), Team of
the Year and Derbyshire Adventurer of the Year. Each entry will be assessed by a panel of judges, with the winners being announced at a special awards ceremony held at the University’s Oaklands Manor Outdoor Leadership Centre, in the Peak District, on Saturday, October 10. Professor Nick Draper, Head of the Department of Life Sciences at the University of Derby, has been involved in organising the event. He said: “Until we started our Young Adventurers Award in 2013, there appeared to be no regional or national scheme running in the UK that focused on young people and their achievements in the
Home School Tutoring Home School Tutoring (National Forest/ Derbyshire) is part of the national network of Home School Tutoring. We specialise in tutoring children and adults at home, whether they be home educated, in school, at University or working. Each area has a range of skilled tutors (usually teachers) with a current CRB. In our area we also specialise in the tutoring of English and maths learning difficulties, going as far as the tutoring of dyslexia (literacy problems) and dyscalculia (maths problems) which lie at the extreme of the learning difficulty spectrum, affecting up to 10% of the population and particularly, with dyscalculia, being poorly understood. A child may have general learning difficulties in some or all subjects, which we would traditionally call ‘slow’ and can be usually tackled with extra tuition to bolster mainstream learning. Dyslexia and dyscalculia differ from this in that the child is often very good in other areas; they could be very poor at English but brilliant at
maths or vice versa. They could be talented in art, history or the sciences but show poor skills in English or maths often coupled with frustration at their lack of progress. Both conditions require expert diagnosis, the earlier the better (from age seven) and expert assistance. Schools will often be reluctant to pay for an analysis due to the expense (over £500) and the subsequent cost of specialist teaching. We can offer advice and informal diagnosis in both dyslexia and dyscalculia as well as skilled individual tuition at home to bring children (and adults) up to speed, with impressive results. We are always keen to register new tutors to join us to increase our range of provision in all subjects. Please contact; Sue Evans 01283 480565/07875275411: email: hstnf2010@talktalk. Or visit our website; homeschooltutoring.co.uk
adventure sports. “We have been proud to be associated with the awards, which moved in 2014 to become a National Award scheme. “At a time when Britain has been referred to as the lazy nation of Europe, it is wonderful to see the quality of the nominees and award winners in each year. “Britain has some wonderful Young Adventurers, of whom we should be very proud, and the University of Derby along with the Sport, Outdoor and Exercise Team are delighted to be associated with this celebration of achievement.”
This year’s judging panel includes Dr Chris Bussell, Dean of the College of Life and Natural Sciences at the University, Adam Evans, an outdoor leadership and personal development coach, lecturer and guide, Mark Sears, Chief Wild Officer of The Wild Network and Co-Director of Derbyshire Sport, Hayley Lever. Shauna Coxsey, Head Coach for the RAF Climbing Team and winner of two World Cup Golds for Bouldering, is the guest speaker for the awards ceremony. The winners of the Junior Adventurer of the Year, Adventurer of the Year, and Derbyshire Adventurer of the Year awards, will each win a GoPro HERO. The winners of the Team of the Year category will receive one GoPro HERO for their group. Last year, Finnbarr Brooks scooped Derbyshire Adventurer of the Year. The 10-year-old, who attends Denstone College Preparatory School and Nursery at Smallwood Manor, is currently the British Champion in Speed Skating. In July, he will be in London to defend his title and will be competing in an international event in Zandvoorde, Belgium, in August. Finnbarr said: “I was proud to get the award but also very surprised as there were so many other amazing children nominated.” Finnbarr’s mum Charlotte added: “I nominated Finnbarr because of his tireless enthusiasm to train and improve on his performance. He always pushes himself that little bit further and never gives up. “I was delighted for him when he won the award, to have acknowledgement of his hard work and training is fantastic and he's only 10 years old.” To enter, all you have to do is tell us why you want to nominate your son, daughter, young relative, friend or classmate, student or club member, fellow team member or even yourself. Nominations for the UK Young Adventurers Awards 2015 close at 11.59pm on Friday, July 31, 2015. For more information about the UK Young Adventurer Awards 2015, and to submit a nomination, visit: www.derby.ac.uk/yaa2015
Business 38 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 30
www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk
Growth in business activity slows to weakest since March 2013
Key points:
Output and demand
• Output and new business expand at slowest rates since early 2013 • Employment growth slows, although is broadly in line with the UK average • Cost pressures re-emerge
The seasonally adjusted Lloyds Bank Yorkshire & Humber Business Activity Index posted 53.6 in May, down from 56.7 in April, thereby signalling a further easing in growth in the Yorkshire & Humber private sector. Moreover, the latest figure was the lowest since March 2013 and was weaker than the UK average for the second month running. The overall slowdown was reflective of an easing in both manufacturing and service sector output growth. The slowdown in Yorkshire & Humber was a reflection of an easing in new order growth. In fact, new business rose at the weakest rate in over two years, and slower than the UK average. Where new work intakes rose, panellists mentioned improved marketing strategies and new product launches.
Summary: Activity growth at private sector companies in the Yorkshire & Humber region slowed to the weakest in over two years in May. This was underpinned by a further easing in new order growth, which was the weakest since February 2013. Meanwhile, employment levels increased at the slowest rate this year so far, but nevertheless in line with the UK average. On the price front, both input and output prices increased, reversing the trends observed in April.
Employment and backlogs Private sector firms in the Yorkshire & Humber
region hired additional staff in May. Despite slowing to the weakest pace this year so far, the rate of expansion was in line with the average over the current 24-month period of growth. According to survey participants, staffing levels increased due to an expansion in business and prospects for future activity growth. Meanwhile, volumes of unfinished work were depleted for the first time this year. Firms linked the decline to weaker new order growth. Input and output prices Input prices increased for the first time in three months in May. Furthermore, the rate of inflation was the strongest since August 2014. Several panellists mentioned unfavourable exchange rates driving up raw material costs. Subsequently, prices charged by private sector firms in the Yorkshire & Humber region rose, as
companies passed on their higher cost burdens to their clients. Comment: Commenting on the Lloyds Bank Yorkshire & Humber PMI survey, Jon Pulford, area director for SME Banking in the East Midlands and South Yorkshire, Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “Private sector business activity growth across Yorkshire and Humber slowed to its weakest since March 2013 during May, while new order growth also eased to its slowest pace since February 2013. Both rates of growth were weaker than their respective UK averages. Subsequently, employment levels increased at their slowest pace so far this year. Meanwhile, amid reports of a strong US dollar driving up raw material costs, purchase prices increased at the fastest pace since August 2014, while output charges rose for the fourth time this year.”
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Integritas Financial Planners based in Swadlincote is owned and led by Mark Johnson a Chartered Financial Planner. “Pension Freedom” This month Mark looks at Uncrystallised Funds Pension Lump Sum (UFPLS) UFPLS is a new concept, available since 6th April 2015, with a lump sum drawn directly from
• 25% of the lump sum is tax-free whilst the remainder will be taxed at your rate of income tax. • It is possible to take a series of UFPLS payments each treated as a mix of 25% tax free and 75% taxable income. • Balance of the pension fund can remain invested. • No need to designate or crystallise any pension funds for income. • Once any taxable income is taken, a £10,000 money purchase annual allowance (MPAA) will apply. The option of annuity purchase still remains and should be considered before accessing a pension fund through UFPLS. 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 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 39
Smaller businesses in the Midlands not protecting against cybercrime 43% of small and micro businesses in the Midlands report having experienced cybercrime, new research from AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) reveals. However, the research also reveals that many of them are not taking enough precautions to protect themselves. Of the small and micro business owners (businesses with between 0 and 49 employees) who said their business had suffered cybercrime: • 26% had suffered computer virus infection. • 20% had been victims of phishing – where sensitive information such as passwords are stolen by someone pretending to be from the bank for example. • Card fraud was also common, with 15% saying they had been victims of it. • Despite the high number of businesses who have been victims of cybercrime, a significant number of the Midland’s small and micro businesses are still not doing what they need to do to protect their businesses. • 69% reported using firewall protection; meaning 31% do not • 68% reported using regular updates of anti-virus software, meaning that 32% are not guarding against computer viruses and malware. • Only 37% reported changing their business
passwords regularly, which is essential for keeping passwords secure. • Only 31% reported regularly installing security patches, which are needed to keep security software up to date for the latest threats. • 11% reported not using any methods at all to protect their business from cybercrime. Rik Ferguson, vice president of security research at security software company Trend Micro said: “This research shows that although many business owners are aware of cybersecurity risks and are taking action to guard against them, there are still some who need to do more to protect their businesses. There is good cybersecurity advice available for free online, but businesses should always consider finding a trusted specialist security partner, as different businesses will have different security needs depending on what they do, and security advice is not one size fits all.” Mark Farrar, AAT Chief Executive said: “Keeping online information secure is vital. A security breach could put you out of action and cost you money, which can be fatal for smaller businesses that have very little time and money to spare. Businesses should always protect every aspect of their online profile.”
Quarter of Midlands workers looking for new job New research reveals that more than a quarter (27%) of workers in the Midlands are actively looking for a new job, with 15% looking to change career entirely in the future. In light of this, employers should strongly consider what they can offer that will attract employees and make them want to stay, says recruitment specialist REED. The research, which marks the launch of the 2015 REED Regional Salary Guide for the Midlands found that the most important factors for career happiness are work/life balance (32%) and job satisfaction (24%), followed by salary at 22%. And, according to REED, employers must think about offering employment packages that take into account flexibility as well as salary, in order to appeal to changing lifestyles. The study also found that 16% of workers in the region have changed employer more than seven times over the course of their career. When asked why they swapped employer, Midlands workers reported better salary (45%), boredom with their current role (41%) and better prospects (30%) as the main motivators for this change.
Alison Tully, senior business manager for the Midlands at REED, said: “In a candidate-led market like this, employers need to think hard about how they attract and retain staff. What this research shows is that although salary is very important, now we’re out of the recession it’s no longer just about pay – employers need to consider many other factors, such as flexible working and how they can offer the greatest job satisfaction. Workers are feeling more confident about the economy, and as such are feeling that they can ask for, and expect employers to give, a more holistic employment package. “With 19% of workers in the region receiving no benefits in the last year, the fact that more than a quarter are actively looking to look for a new role over the next 12 months is hardly surprising. This indicates that employers need to start taking action now, and really considering the perception of their brand and company culture to potential employees.” The REED 2015 Salary and Market Insight report can be obtained www.reedglobal.com/salaryguide or by visiting www.reedglobal.com
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? • 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? If the answer to any of these questions is ‘yes’, the Patent Box may well be available to you. 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
40 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 30
Leadership What Money Cannot Buy A common misconception is that translators and interpreters are one and the same thing. It is the spoken versus the written word, and one requires more diligent attention to detail, grammar, accuracy and specific meaning than the other. But that’s not to say that one is an easier option than the other, they both require different skills and professional qualifications to be successful. The nature of interpretation is more immediate – acting as an interpreter requires instant understanding of the context and meaning of a speaker and relaying that information, often in a ‘live’ situation, to an audience. Interpreters will use their skills to listen and paraphrase what is being said, rather than give a literal translation. They’ll also use gestures and tone of voice to help add clarity to meaning. Translators have more time to complete their work, allowing time for further research if necessary,
considered understanding of what is being said, and attention to grammar and punctuation commensurate with providing a professional service. Translators are often required to be proofreaders too, adding a new dimension and added value to their service so that the work they produce is ready for publishing. Interpreters need good listening and note taking skills, and often find themselves working in more intensive environments. Both require a good mastery of the subject, not only the language itself but also the culture, tone, underlying meaning and intent of the words, extensive knowledge of the vocabulary, including industry specialisms and terms if operating in a specific technical or specialist field. There’s no doubt though, that whether you require a translator or an interpreter, you do need the services of a qualified professional. Knowing the difference will help when you approach a language services company to buy their services. Here at Sally Walker Language Services we have an international network of language specialists, so we are able to offer both translation and interpreting services to companies globally, across many different sectors. If you’d like to find out more, just call: Tel No: 0117 9734742
www.sallywalker.co.uk Email: translations@sallywalker.co.uk
Management and leadership are two key components to business and organisational success, however it is often the case that many people in these roles confuse or merge the different attributes of management and leadership.
Well, we can buy a person’s time, we can buy a person to be at a given place. We cannot buy a person’s enthusiasm, we cannot buy trust or loyalty; we have to earn these. This is leadership; if managers are also leaders, their employees:
British business may be sleepwalking into a leadership crisis if we fail to distinguish between management skills and the qualities of leadership.
You can be a manager, but you are not a leader until your position has been “ratified” by those who follow. There are four basic functions of leadership:
Management is the ability to achieve objectives with the resources available (human, material, financial and time). Management skills are essential for making decisions, organising and controlling activity. Leadership is influencing others to willingly follow. Leadership skills are essential for working with people to accomplish their goals and the goals of the organisation. Clearly both management and leadership are necessary for any organisation however leadership seems to be the differential that adds value and unleashes potential. Why?
• Feel less stress in the organisation • Are more receptive to new ideas, innovation and change • Feel their manager is interested in their growth and development • Perceive their manager is skillful • Have higher morale • Feel more empowered • Are more efficient and effective
1. Goal setting 2. Feedback 3. Problem solving 4. Recognition How you achieve these speaks volumes about your leadership style. What is important and vindication for a leader is not what happens when you’re there, it’s what happens when you’re not there. Further leadership articles follow.
Issue 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 41
R e l a t e Derby and Southern Derbyshire not only provides counselling services for children, young people, adults and families across Southern Derbyshire and East Staffordshire but via the Ting Training Service also provides a number of specialist services for business and organisations. Counselling: Looking to support staff members and reduce absenteeism? Relate provide a number of EAP counselling services to local and national organisations including Toyota, Staffordshire County Council and Derbyshire Fire and Rescue. Call Relate to discuss your requirements – tailor made packages just right for your business are available. Training: Relate offers a number of courses that enable you to get the very best out of your team. Popular courses include: Counselling Skills for Non Counsellors, Managing Emotional Clients, and First Impressions. Relate’s Ting Training Service also
invites guest trainers to deliver a range of innovative courses – do visit the website for up and coming courses (www.ting.org.uk) Coaching: Relate’s Coaching service is ideal for developing individuals within your work force. Coaching is a collaborative process that is focused on working towards solutions and goals in your personal or work life. Our Team of qualified coaches work with an individual, over a series of sessions, to facilitate improvements in work, life and relationships. Supervision: Relate provides 1:1 and small group supervision that supports individuals and teams. Workers in pastoral roles are finding that they are increasingly dealing with more complex cases. Relate Ting delivers professional supervision to workers from a range of sectors and organisations. Why not give Relate a call to discuss your requirements so that the right solutions can be identified for you and your business. Contact Natasha Littlechild on 01332 331259 / nlittlechild@ relatederby.org.uk. You can also visit our websites for further information: www.relatederby.org.uk / www.ting.org.uk
BELLA ITALIA ANNOUNCES BUSINESS PLAN TO CREATE 110 JOBS IN THE EAST MIDLANDS THIS YEAR Bella Italia, the UK’s favourite Italian restaurant, has today announced plans to create over 110 jobs in the East Midlands over the next year. This is thanks to an ambitious growth plan which will see 40 new sites opened, and 2,000 jobs created, nationwide by 2017. The jobs in the East Midlands are the result of planned openings in Mansfield, Burton and Loughborough. They cover front of house team members, chefs and management positions, at a variety of levels of responsibility, providing opportunities for people at all stages in their careers, with comprehensive training available to skill them up as required. Between now and 2017, an average of 1,000 roles will be created at locations across the country, an investment trend that Bella Italia expects to continue year on year for the foreseeable future. Furthermore, as Bella Italia prioritises candidates with the right personality and behaviour over experience, this means the roles are ideal for those in the East Midlands who are new to hospitality and looking to break into this exciting, dynamic
industry. With flexible working hours too, it’s also a great opportunity for mothers returning to work who need to fit a job around childcare, those with dependents, or those looking for a second job to provide additional income while fitting in around their existing employment. These positions are also sure to appeal to the rising number of 18-24 year olds struggling to find work. Catherine McGuckin, HR Director for Bella Italia, commented: “It’s incredibly exciting to announce the creation of so many new jobs in the East Midlands, which we know will provide real opportunities for those looking for flexible, motivating work, whatever their experience. We’re investing heavily in our employer brand, including the launch of a new recruitment website, and these roles are a reflection of that. This comes as part of our national investment programme, which will see our whole estate refurbished, alongside the 40 new openings, by 2017.” To apply for a job at Bella Italia, please visit: https:// www.bellaitaliacareers.com/
What’s the MS Word on Massage? Its always nice to be able to finally realise the design vision with the completion of a project and then to tell the story of that journey in my blog . . . . and today is one of those days when I have a story to tell. Miss S, is an existing client of mine whom I originally created a branding and logo set for her holistic therapy and Ayurvedic massage business, based in Nottingham.
BUT it is not designed or set up for the purpose of, or able to handle design for professional print projects .While some printers will sometimes accept a word document, to print from It would be with great trepidation that any professional designer worth their reputation would embark on creating a project this way.
I did find this online converter which (for a small fee) potentially allows conversion to rich text format (for editing with word?) from your print Now as a busy mum, with my own business ready PDF file – but having not used it, I can working from home with a lifestyle that fits flexibly neither comment or recommend. So having around my children, I may seen like an enviable decided that the item to be designed should be prospect . . . . but while the hours are of my own a marketing flyer with an offer and list of prices choosing, and the traveling is just upstairs to the for the most popular treatments the project bedroom/office I am in no means living a luxury commenced. lifestyle, far from it in fact. Miss S provided me with the images from her I work hard, and as a perfectionist I give a lot website, which, having taken my advice, she more on my design projects than my clients had purchased at higher resolution than required ever pay me for, and while business is OK, for for web use, in anticipation of any future print providing a bit of extra family spending money projects. She asked me to use the wording on . . . . I still have to judge wisely and assess with her website, as a basis to copywrite something care how I spend my money, which is the same poignant and succinct for her flyer. issue for many of my clients. Together with the design work I had previously Setting up a business from scratch, whilst done and a testimonial from one of her clients, I working full time and still paying all those bills, put together a design in accordance with my own is never an easy task, and Miss S philosophy blueprint for creating a fantastic marketing flyer is one I can relate to myself . . . the caution in you can download this 10 easy step PDF for free spending ‘no more money than necessary’ to on my website achieve a result. But it is important to spend wisely, and not cut corners if it means a lesser Miss S flyer was done to follow the look of her result, after all you get what you pay for. brand, to utilise her logo colours and replicate the style of her website. . . It is important to maintain I did eventually learn the business lesson of styling throughout your brand and across all “speculate to accumulate” which is exactly aspects of your marketing by consistently using what you are doing when you invest in a design the same colours, headlines and imagery, these project, for your website, business card, logo or elements will by continual association become marketing flyer. . . . elevating yourself away from recognised pointers to your business. the competition with a professional presence that will compete in the marketplace. The flyer incorporates a great promotional offer, Miss S and I spent some time discussing options for business card / price list / flyer for her business and the most cost effective way to get the best result. Part of our conversation was about the possibility of a design that she could edit herself in the future . . . . . . to save any further design fees on edits but this does pose the following considerations it would require her having a copy of the same Adobe Illustrator professional design software I use – which would be unlikely OR it would require me designing her price list / flyer using software that she had – in most cases presumably microsoft word would be the preferred product. Now as a professional graphic designer, with 25 years history behind me, even under the guidance of an employer (for 16 years) , I have never ever used microsoft word to create any piece of printed design so what does that tell you about microsoft word? Its great as an office tool for letters, graphs, projects, office presentations,
ongoing for a whole year to add longevity to her flyer the offer is restricted to the first 3 clients each calendar month, to encourage take up. Miss S massage therapy business is based around the ancient principles of Ayrveda, which originated in India over 4,000 years ago and incorporates the whole person: mind, body and spirit. This ancient holistic traditional system which uses the characteristics of nature to help maintain a person’s health. Using massage or touch therapy which unleashes a powerful and positive wave of emotion, making it an absolute requirement for good health. Great for relaxation, anxiety, stress as well as giving relief for muscle and joint ailments Miss S is open for business from salons in and around Nottingham.You can see the finished flyer front and back designs here, and here And find out more about ayurvedic massage on the website here thanks for reading x
42 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 30
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.
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Issue 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 43
Melinda Messenger hunts for Derby’s best landscaped garden
TV
presenter Melinda Messenger is fronting a campaign to find the best landscaping job in Derby. Local timber & builders merchants Travis Perkins are launching High 5, a campaign that celebrates the very best in professional landscaping in Britain. The best entry from Derby, as judged by a panel of experts, will be in with a chance of being awarded Best Landscape Job in Central England. The best of the best in Scotland, Wales, Northern, Central and Southern England will form the Travis Perkins High 5. Each winning a weekend away for two and a personal High 5 from Channel 5 Cowboy Builders presenter Melinda at a celebratory lunch at Kensington Roof Gardens in September 2015. Melinda Messenger explains: “Over the years, I’ve had brilliant experiences of tradesmen working with me. Yet there are so many cowboy tradesmen out there! I’m working with Travis Perkins on the High 5 project to find the people who are getting it right and show everyone just how valuable the landscape gardener is in making Britain a green and pleasant land. “A good landscape gardener can transform even the smallest space into something interesting. Someone who can utilise the space imaginatively and really listen to what their client needs, is what we’re looking for. “We’re looking for examples of great landscaping work. It could be the creation of an all-weather seating area, structure added to a bland landscape, a lawn that gives Wembley a run for its money or simply a driveway packed with personality using inventive paving.
“I’ll be looking for innovation, creativity and imagination from the entries - a space that I’d want to go into. In addition, there will have to be a mix of textures and materials that work well together, it should be a low maintenance garden, but done brilliantly.” Lucy Miller of Travis Perkins adds: “The trade has been badly hit by the recession, but there is an overwhelming sense of optimism right now and property owners are starting to invest in their homes once more. A good landscape gardener treats the garden like an outside room, putting together a comprehensive spec that uses high quality trade products to create an interesting space that meets the clients needs.” Nominations must come from the client by Monday 17 August 2015, but landscapers can encourage an entry by handing out a nomination card that can be collected from their local Travis Perkins branch on Sandown Road but entries can also be submitted online at www.travisperkins.co.uk/competitions. Lucy Miller of Travis Perkins adds: “From great gardens to amazing landscaped public spaces, Britain’s landscapers are at the top of their game. “We hear all about the amazing work they’re doing in our local branches every day, so we wanted to properly recognise the best landscaping in Britain. And what better way than to be nominated by the people you’ve done the work for? It’s the ultimate seal of approval on a job well done. “It’s all about giving the tradesman a ‘High 5’ for a job well done.”
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44 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 30
Pets Corner
Rattlesnake Canyon
www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk
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.
A pioneering pet store is the only specialist supplier of venomous snakes in Birmingham as well as other reptiles including exotic spiders. Rattlesnake Canyon has been serving the community since 2011 after Birmingham Council granted it approval to house DWA (Dangerous Wild Animals) on-site. It has been going strong ever since and is now able to sell DWA animals to licensed keepers. There is something for everyone at Rattlesnake Canyon on Kingstanding Road which will leave you spoilt for choice. Snakes, lizards, tarantulas, exotic mammals and tropical and coldwater fish are just a few potential pets for you to consider. If you’re a complete novice and don’t know your Corn Snake from your Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, then you will
receive expert advice in-store. After a friendly chat, the owners ascertain what your needs are and which pet will best suit your lifestyle. Don’t just take our word for it; Rattlesnake Canyon’s Facebook page has garnered nearly 1000 “likes” and helpful, supportive advice offered by the store is a common theme in the reviews. Owner Mike Conabeer said: “Rattlesnake Canyon has never been more popular and we are extremely proud of the store’s heritage. With over 20 years’ experience working with these fantastic animals, we are the go-to place in Birmingham and beyond for people seeking reptilian pets.” Rattlesnake Canyon is more than just an exotic pet-store. They specialise in the breeding of reptiles and invertebrates
and also stock aquatics and pet supplies, meaning all animals sold have guaranteed support. Rattlesnake Canyon recognises that buying a pet can be an exciting, sometimes daunting time. With this in mind, if you have a stocking query or want to source a specific pet, the store will trawl through their special little black book of contacts to source products and animals on demand and will always strive to fulfil customer requirements where possible. Do you know which pet you’re looking for? Or perhaps you want to gift a pet for someone? Call Rattlesnake Canyon now on 0121 382 7451 or hop onto their Facebook page for more information.
Rattlesnake Canyon 5 STAR RATED BY 99% OF CUSTOMERS
Sepcialist in Reptiles, Aquatics and Pet Supplies & Information. Breeders of Top Quality Reptiles. We are the only shop in Birmingham approved to sell DWA species and have various species on display. With out vast network of contacts we are able to source many products and animals on demand and will always strive to fulfil any customer requirments where possible.
T: 0121 382 7451
We offer a wide range of: • Snakes • Lizards • Tarantulas • Hamsters • Rabbits • Birds • Fish
W: www.rattlesnakecanyon.co.uk
574 Kingstanding Rd, Birmingham, West Midlands, B44 9SD
Issue 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 45
DOGS TRUST CALLS ON LOCAL COMMUNITIES TO CLEAN UP THEIR DOGS’ DOO
Dogs Trust and Keep Britain Tidy join forces for The Big Scoop 2015 campaign We are a nation of dog lovers, owning over eight million dogs in the UK. With eight million dogs comes a lot of dog waste, in fact the UK dog population produces over 1,000 tonnes of doggy doo a day, that’s the equivalent of 200 elephants, three airplanes or 100 double decker buses. Despite the majority of dog owners being responsible and picking up after their pooch, dog waste remains a prominent and unpleasant issue in the south West. To launch its third annual anti-fouling campaign, The Big Scoop 2015, Dogs Trust and Keep Britain Tidy are calling on councils, communities and local people to unite as ambassadors for the campaign, becoming ‘Scooper Heroes’ and spreading the message to ‘bag it and bin it’.
Dogs Trust is the UK’s largest dog welfare charity and has 22 Education and Community Officers around the UK, including one for the South West who visit schools to talk to pupils about being responsible dog owners. Scott Spencer, Dogs Trust Education and Community Officer for the Midlands said: “It’s the small minority of irresponsible dog owners who leave their dog’s mess on footpaths, in parks and green spaces. Many people may not realise that when it comes to disposing of dog waste any public bin will do! Dog owners simply need to pick up their dog waste in a poo bag and place it in any bin.” Scott is encouraging local pupils and communities to get behind The Big Scoop 2015 campaign and spread the message about responsible dog ownership: “A part of the The Big Scoop campaign we’re getting school pupils to take part in a poster competition. We are encouraging pupils to use their artistic skills to make a poster deterring dog owners from ignoring their dog’s waste and spreading the campaign’s key message. The winning poster will be shared online, and the chosen artist will be awarded with Dogs Trust goodies. All schools will also receive The Big Scoop leaflets, posters, capes, poo bags and rosettes to get young people behind the campaign.”
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.
46 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 30
A unique an
Loxley Park A wonderful alternative to care homes in Sheffield
Our Sheffield care community is nestled beautifully on the edge of the Peak District. Being only a short journey from Sheffield city centre, this makes Loxley Park the perfect location to offer the best of both
General Enquires
town and country life. Independent Living at Loxley - Lakeside Expect More... Living independently makes each day active and fun. Not only will the accommodation surprise you with homely, light airy and spacious one and two bedroom apartments many of which over look our private lake and beautiful gardens. But still
0114 299 3991
keeping your own front door! Maintenance and utility bills are taken care of and you’ll have the choice of dinning in our fully licensed restaurant with delicious home cooked food, ideal for individuals and couples. Assisted Living at Loxley - Riverside Exceptional Care and Support... At Loxley Park we have the most amazing care and support team,
For family members and staff
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you can be in our assisted living apartments, again with your own front door, family members and friends will have the peace of mind that you live in a safe and secure environment. Loxley Park offers a fantastic range of activities 7 days a week, including excursions out, Tai Chi, Sequence dancing, a hair salon to name but a few, all in a relaxing homely
Loxley Park, Loxl
Issue 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 47
nd inspiring group of senior living communities where care and lifestyle go hand in hand
community. We also offer respite breaks, postoperative convalescence or maybe you just need a holiday.
Accommodation & Facilities Although not a registered care home, Loxley Park is served by our
registered care home provider and has a wellbeing manager and 21 care staff, so you can expect exceptional levels of care when required. Our variety of studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments provide the ultimate in terms of luxury and choice. All apartments are fully equipped and provide access to the benefits of community life. Being person centred, our dining,
ley Road, Loxley, Sheffield, S6 4TF
domiciliary care and housekeeping services are purchased in packages and tailored to the individual wants and needs of each resident. All packages are flexible and adjustable at any time to cope with changes to individual circumstance. Signature at Loxley also features the following facilities, all included in your weekly fee:
- Energy and utilities bills - 24hr on-site emergency call system - Laundry and housekeeping* - Three-course lunch and dinner including a full English breakfast* - Concierge service - Rubbish collection - Exterior window cleaning
Email: enquiries.loxley@signaturesl.co.uk
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48 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 30 Editorial and Advertising 01530 813101
Motoring www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk
Issue 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 49
This Months Car Reviews by Syd Taylor
Ford Fiesta Red Edition 1.0-litre EcoBoost 5-Speed Manual
A
s usual, Ford are ahead of the curve. The latest psychological research proves for certain that of all the colours in the spectrum, red is the 'goahead' colour: the one to choose if you're a go-getting gourmet of the best things in life. Bulls may blink but bold people
keep their eyes wide open for the stimulating possibilities of retinal vibrations and the rewards reaped by those who go boldly forth. If it's a fiesta you're after and your name is not Ernest Hemingway, you can extract in safety, the thrills of the Pamplona Bull Run in a cute car that sashays through traffic like a wicked matador. I love this little car. The day it
arrived on test was indeed a 'red letter day' - and the amazing news for potential buyers is that you don't have to splash out a ton of the 'readies' in order to rein in one for yourself. This special edition costs £16,145. Everyone knows that the Fiesta brand is a monument to reliability as this smartly accoutred modern hatchback just keeps on giving
miles of pleasure. But Ford are clearly aware that the time is ripe to nudge aside austerity - and what better way to accomplish this than to make available a special edition Fiesta designed to put a twinkle in the eye and transform mundane motoring with a deft application of the red brush. It's a car to bring a flush of excitement even to the cheeks of Gainsborough's Blue Boy. Had Picasso the chance of driving one of these through Birmingham's Bull Ring one can speculate that art experts would be speaking in excited tones of Picasso's 'Red period'. Stern readers may 'tut tut' at such rhapsodising but those canny folk at Ford know better than anyone how much more fun the world is when bright hued tomorrows are sprinkled across the grey path of predictability. So it is with the Fiesta Red and never once behind the wheel did I feel anything but light-hearted and well prepared for the messy
pitfalls of life. It's an attractively designed small three-door hatchback that's well made, well specified, ergonomically excellent and is real fun to drive. Ford's 1.0 three cylinder 140PS EcoBoost engine is a cutting edge 'wonder' engine that will take you to 125mph(fast enough!) yet return 62.8mpg (so they claim). You probably won't get that (expect around 45/48 mpg) because you'll be delighting in the cars liveliness as you 'snickety snick' up and down the five gears and relish the
fabulous dynamics that in no way compromise the good ride quality. It's simply just a lot of fun on all fronts. As with all the best recipes it's the subtle blend of ingredients that win in the end. It might be pushing things to say that it blazes a trail - but certainly it has rivals trailing. If 'feel good' motoring is your meat, the Fiesta Red is the perfect treat. So blow the fife and bang the drum - Red Fiesta times have come. Grab one now before - like Scarlett O'Hara's dream - it's 'Gone With The Wind'.
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! 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 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 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. Directions, opening hours and telephone numbers are available on our Contact Us page. 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
50 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 30
Vauxhall Mokka 1.6CDTi (136ps) 5dr
The crossover concept is here for the long term, representing as it does, an adventurous amalgam of attractive motoring possibilities. Quite often - in the hands of other manufacturers - it's on the crossroads to nowhere. In short, one can make a compromise too many, resulting in a vehicle that Frankenstein might wax lyrical about. Vauxhall make no such mistake. They have dished out a deal that has customers
salivating, by cleverly adapting the SUV's appearance to todays style-conscious imperatives while underpinning an attractive car with hardware that does the business in the best possible way. Take it from me, the Mokka is top of the tree, dovetailing dynamism and performance with the versatility demanded by todays families. Inside the large and airy cabin there's room for five. Cabin
architecture is robust and yet there's a feeling of intimacy. There's plenty of storage space, seats are very comfy and the driver enjoys the benefits of good ergonomics. Immediately you're struck by the sense of secure solidity that top quality materials and first rate construction can give. It's no wonder that a lifetime warranty up to 100,000 miles is offered. With several engine options and
specification levels, there's a Mokka to suit most buyers. Not everyone needs 4WD so the chosen test car was a ÂŁ21,364 2WD version using the 1.6 diesel that drives through a six speed manual gearbox. It's an excellent combination: smooth, torquey, quick enough (near 120mph) and surprisingly economical. 65.7mpg is claimed overall but expect a realistic 55/57mpg. My time spent behind the wheel of Vauxhalls Mokka was indeed time well spent for it drove home to me all the virtues that well bred versatility can bring. Consider its virtues as it pushes ever forward in the vanguard of promise - a trailblazing enterprise striding down the catwalk of cardom: a lovely combination of superb practicality, excellent performance and predictable and yet rewardingly nuanced road manners. Balance, style and poise combine to capture the attention of the most jaded cynic as the Mokka sets a new mood in a world weary of sameness. Sensible, yes - but so stylish, offering swanky vitality, practicality and the dependability of great aunt Maud when it comes to providing the necessaries. Today everyone wants an automotive podule that does the lot and does it well and the Mokka is one of those crossovers
that offers a welcoming embrace to every type of driver from the sporty to the economy conscious. In today's chatter it's a car with attitude that mixes the urban cool of the SUV, the lively zest of the 'warm' hatchback and the sensible economies of the wooly pullover set. It seems to me that the Mokka is particularly attuned to the British way of thinking: vis a vis - modern motoring. That is why I have a soft spot for Vauxhall values. They do know what we want, don't they? A car that's no trouble to own yet takes a constantly eager
trouble to please. If it's a 'bells and whistles' glamour carriage you're after - don't bother, for here is a vehicle that conveys true delight for all the right reasons.
45/46 mpg in the real world) and a 'nasty noxiousness quotient' of just 139g/ km of CO2. Shockingly disgraceful only if you eat celery sticks and don't tread on the cracks in the pavement - but to you and me, that's a fragrant exhaust. The big news is that it's graced with the new nine speed automatic w o n d e r box. Never before has 4x4 motoring embraced the supple atmospheric flow of the magic carpet. To say it glides is an understatement, for its propulsive potential is never less than silken. And never before have I been treated to such a pleasing plenitude of ratios delivered on tap with the fussless perfection of a maestro's touch. On motorways, B roads and country tracks (It's not a serious 'off-roader' despite having 4WD competence for minor excursions off piste) the CR-V channels it's charismatic essence in plausibly good transportation - riding well and handling well. To reassure myself that my enthusiasm was justified I
reached for a second opinion inviting a passenger to share the CR-Vs impressive CV. Fresh from duty at a Crown Court hearing, the lady barrister who joined me proved, in her capacity as a one-person jury, that Honda indeed were guilty of marketing an indecently good car. Wittily my response suggested that an owner must be sentenced to many years excellent service. At no time did the jury suspend its verdict, for the case was clear from the
outset. Here was a utility package that Batman's famous belt would have wept for: on the EX there's even a Collision Mitigation Braking System with Pedestrian Detection. Wow! Kapow! Perfect for getting through the rush hour in Gotham City. Reluctant as I am to say 'Holy Honda' I was wholly convinced of the CR-Vs total integrity, representing a holistic conception inviting hubristic investigation to uncover its sheer excellence.
Honda CR-V 1.6 i-DTEC EX 9AT 4WD
Without doubt, the SUV concept provides as convincing an argument as ever Plato, Socrates and Aristotle came up with. There's no gainsaying the gains in motoring versatility that the SUV delivers on a platter. The latest and indubitably greatest 4x4 SUV CR-V knocks the opposition for six, representing as it does, the home-brewed recipe of master automobile chefs who know how to deliver satisfaction at a price that doesn't make you blink. For ÂŁ34.120 you get big improvements to engine and transmission, super safety with enough airbags to re-float
the Titanic and a space-age infotainment system that even lets you browse the internet. It's much quieter and it rides better too. This Swindon manufactured super SUV swings with a sizzling excitement not seen since the 'sixties'. My test car, in an elegant black redolent of dinner-jacketed success and charged with alloy wheels that shone like silverware, looked so inviting, so tactile, that it made me feel - as a connoisseur must - in a sculpture park. Impressed by its modernism, bowled over by its roominess and flexibility of seating/load carrying, I was certain that this Honda is the sort of car that one must
have. It is a truism to say that no other SUV in the market comes with a Honda badge and yet the great motoring public knows in its heart of hearts that when it comes to engineering certainties and customer confidence, Honda is second to none. They've been doing so well for so long that in an uncertain world you can be sure of one thing. Their cars are all stars. There's nothing about the CR-V I didn't relish - combining as it does, the frisson of perky performance up to 120/125mph from the smooth and willing 1.6, 160PS diesel with frugality of a claimed 55.3mpg (expect around
Issue 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 51
Skoda Octavia Scout Estate 2.0 TDI 150PS 4x4 Light enough to be nimble, solid enough to be reassuring, this is a versatile transportation package. On motorways, distant horizons beckon: on twisty roads you're firmly pegged to the ground. It is a sophisticated and refined 'real world' car with quality the equal of any Teutonic or Oriental rivals. Like all Octavias, the Scout is noticeably well equipped and well prepared for any task. A comprehensive standard specification includes everything from a sump guard to
If you've a mind to own one of the most versatile all-rounders in the motoring field, then make a pitch for the Skoda Octavia Scout Estate. It's a mighty and trustworthy performer that's as versatile as a May Day jig of merriment. It combines 4x4 sure-footedness with ample accommodation, attractive styling and enviable reliability. If you've only room for one car in the garage, you might consider this one to make you feel as proud as a fleet owner. As a weekend car too, it's well worth having on account of its determination to transform any journey into a pleasure tour. Now you don't need a kings ransom to own this most complete car. They've given us an improved and enhanced version of the
standard Octavia 4x4 estate for just ÂŁ25,315 - so 'be prepared' for a good report. In revising the suspension - which is an all important consideration for countryfolk wishing to venture off the beaten track - and raising the ride height too, Skoda have raised the bar. With the Octavia Scout Estate you're in good hands. Any Octavia is synonymous with good value motoring and this version builds on that reputation. There's all the confidence that comes from solid engineering ; giving a car that's suited to most requirements on and off road. You can go where other estates would either shake themselves to bits over rough terrain or get bogged down in a puddle. I must stress, of course, that this is a sophisticated
road car that will handle gentle off-roading at the horse trials or when you need to pop and see what your estate manager is up to in the woods. It's by no means a 'ruffty tufty' explorer for crossing mountains and deserts. Nevertheless, it's capable of taking you where you'll get mud on your green wellies and where you'll need your Barbour jacket. We're talking here of a 'proper' country car. You get the feeling that this Scout car is always on the lookout for driver and passengers comfort and convenience - a testament to the conceptual planning that has gone into it. Seats are so admirably comfortble and the driving position is 'spot on'.
GCSEs you can think of. A pleasant surprise is yours as soon as you are underway. The diesel engine is refined and has a good and accessible powerband so you know there's enough power to tackle any situation within reason. The 2.0 TDI PD turbodiesel with an output of 150PS, drives through a six speed manual transmission and four-wheel-drive Haldex clutch system - the best in the business. This transfers power between front and rear wheels as and when required. There's even a 'Hill Hold' control to stop you rolling backwards on a hill start if you're inept. One would think that such sophistication would mean heavy fuel consumption. I'm pleased to report that my test car retuned about 55 mpg - despite whizzing along at
times. 130mph is the claimed top speed. Giving a smooth and quiet ride, this is a car that is relaxing to drive over long distances - and if your journey has taken you into the wilds where boulevard cruisers baulk at the first hint of an unmetalled track, the Scout will get you through. It's truly an estate car that offers an honest pledge of pleasurable and practical motoring. Just like my friend Bob the handyman, it gets the job done in a manner that has you smiling because all the surprises it delivers are pleasant ones. I'm sure that you will find that its market rivals may seem to promise more, while actually delivering less. In other words it's a banker that won't break the bank. A Skoda serenade in traditional sonata form where the main theme is mainstream satisfaction.
same time that its low price must spread alarm among rivals. On our return journey, weighed down with truckles of cheese in the roomy boot - beneath the floor of which is a real spare wheel (Yes. That's right - a REAL one) we rolled along merrily, as happy
a company of Dacia desperados as you'd find anywhere. We all agreed that the Sandero is what it is, does what it does - and it's all done in a very fine way. In a confusing world of often contradictory narrative, you won't lose the plot with a Sandero.
protect when off-road, through comfort features galore like dual zone climate control and special Scout upholsterey (thankfully not in khaki), to stylish alloy wheels and solid looking side protection strips plus bigger bumpers for the rough and tumble that it's likely to encounter - not to mention ESP, ABS, DSR and all the other
Dacia Sandero Ambiance dCi 90 Just as the high summer season spreads its feel-good foliage around hill, meadow and parkland, so was I immersed in the sensation of feel good motoring behind the wheel of the Dacia Sandero. To extend the metaphor, here is high-season motoring sense for sensible owner drivers who are not swayed by the quick flushed promise of short-lived fashions. It's a car for those who want that little bit more in the way of styling, accommodation and reliability but who are not intimidated by the thought of paying just a little bit less for the privilege. In short, the
Sandero represents bargain good sense motoring for the discerning buyer. It has the dash and flair of supermini perkiness but with the added benefits of extra space and accommodation. If you want to see how far your money goes, the answer where the Sandero is concerned is 'very far indeed' - in all senses. I'd be tempted to say it's a tough little number except that the only true diminutive thing about it is the price, for here is a familysized car that comes with most motoring fixtures and fittings one normally needs at a price that has you itching to place your deposit
right away. Its contemporary styling embodies all those factors which are deemed essential for todays roads. Good all-round visibility goes hand-in-hand with safety considerations, road presence and the necessary attractiveness of couture needed for long-term attachment. On further acquaintance with this car I was quickly assured that everything was as it should be and that any words of praise were surely not wasted. I like a car with a roomy, airy feel to its interior and behind the wheel of the Sandero one indeed feels
well set up for welcoming lack of confinement. In order to put its capabilities to the test I took to the road with a full complement of passengers. Our destination? A cheese show in the country. One of the younger passengers instructed me to 'drive Caerphilly' - but I ignored him, the cheeky so-and-so! Five up, the Sandero made easy work of the journey - the steering light and positive, the little 90bhp 1.4 diesel willing and responsive beyond its small capacity and slightly more gruff if you must be pernickity - when compared to cars costing over twice the Sanderos ÂŁ8,595 price (Yes that's not a misprint!) and the five speed gearchange thoroughly acceptable - but not superslick. Suspension irons out non-conformities of the Queen's Highway and handling and roadholding are good too. Here's another amazing bit: Dacia claim a 'combined' 74.3mpg. I claim it probably does more to the gallon. Over 336 miles plus of mixed motoring and the fuel gauge dropped just two bars and I was not using eco mode all the time and neither does it have a silly 'stop start' system . That means it either has a fuel tank the size of Lake Windermere (which it doesn't) or it's running on air - which it probably is, because CO2 emissions are just 99g/ km. - and it goes like the wind too: up to near 110mph. This is a car that embodies quality at the
52 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 30
Land Rover Discovery Sport HSE (Manual) Highly regarded, with sterling qualities, the new Discovery Sport has already established itself as one of those rare mould-breaking motors that is right up to date as Land Rover just keep moving on with the times. It might surprise many to know that this Freelander replacement is essentially a family utility vehicle par excellence, attracting praise from some of the best car designers in the business who regard it as the enlightened epiphany of unpretentious achievement. It's easy to see what they mean, for this appealing looking sturdy
carriage radiates the charm that is the privilege of a perfectly conceived entity. Inside it has a premium look and feel and the top of the range, ÂŁ37,595 HSE has just about every bit of modern kit you might need. It looks the part, but doesn't just act the part - it is the part. A performer for all seasons, all reasons, all purposes - both practical and pleasurable or a combination of them all. I say 'performer' with confidence, for the 190PS 2.2 diesel (a new diesel is soon to be offered) with a slick six speed gearbox and permanent 4WD, links to
electrically operated terrain response control for traversing snow and ice, sand, ruts, hot coals and the Sargasso Sea - all at the push of a button. Excellent offroad ability can be taken as read. It's the ideal all-round package for those who prefer not to sacrifice sensation when going for sense. On-road, the powerful, if slightly gruff, diesel is torquey enough to tow up to 2500 KGS. It will reach near 120mph yet it is claimed to return 46.3 mpg in the combined cycle - realistically you might get 40mpg driven gently. Exhaust emissions are healthy enough at 162gm/km. Solid as it is, it's ready for anything and yet is able to zip along with zest. It's durable over distance and capable, if needed, of quite sporty nimbleness. On twisty roads you could be forgiven for thinking you're at the wheel of a prime sports saloon as it holds on to the turns, lets loose on the straight and stops as quickly as the end of the week. Up to six passengers (Two useful smaller seats can be pulled up from the boot floor), luggage and even a furry friend or two can be packed in and swept to any land
based destination you can think of. It's the sort of vehicle that makes you think you could deliver a load of coal to Newcastle from the leafy suburbs of Surrey and be back in time for tea in China. This car makes a most impressive tourer - and while the era of the
'Grand Tour' has sadly passed, the Discovery Sport delivers more than an inkling of such. In short, here is an all-purpose trailblazer for today, oozing venerable practicalities like nobodys business. Take a complement of passengers
as I did to a local polo match and you will engender respect and a measure of envy too. As one of my passengers - delightful Dorothea Wright - declared. 'In a Discovery Sport, you put Marco Polo to shame!' We acknowledged the clever pun with hearty laughter.
called a Bonneville?'. Just like BMW's Mini, it's evocative of the past in style, but in reality is a world away from the icon that it was. I'm pleased to report though, that it's still a bike to put you in an old black and white movie under a Sixties moon. However, that's not to detract in any way from this delightful and superbly engineered modern bike. In reality it fulfils a role at the opposite end of the spectrum from that of the old bike which was at the cutting edge of performance in its day.. Pilots of oriental rockets whose creed is horsepower above all else might feel misgivings and argue that an engine configuration dating from the Forties has no relevance now: but they're wrong. There is a school of thought - and not just among greybeards - that four cylinder engines should be under the bonnets of automobiles . It only takes a short ride on the Bonnie to convince all but the hardest cynic that there's real virtue in being able to flick through bends with barely a thought and with instant strong power when you open up, regardless of revs or gear. The sheer tractability makes it one of the most relaxing bikes to ride. At first I suspected that Triumph might have sold out to
might be boring. It's most certainly not. An element of excitement has been preserved and the fun that has been the Bonneville hallmark remains. It's no fireball, (even though I did show a clean pair of heels to the driver of a new RS Atomic Turbo at the lights) but what it loses out in blood chilling speed, it makes up for with brilliant handling and easy rideability. While there's none of the old 'rawness' which would be unpalatable for today's softies who don't like getting wet and who couldn't contemplate the horrors of the kickstart lever in case they bruise themselves, this is still a 'punchy' bike that pulls like a train. With oodles of torque and a beautifully smooth transmission, you can stooge along on a whiff of throttle and accelerate away smoothly in any of the five gears, which despite changing with the slickest action, are often redundant. This Triumphs mark is its sweet combination of engine, gears and transmission that gives rare characteristics to make for lovely relaxing motorcycling. Reading the technical specification of this period looking aircooled 865cc, 67bhp twin is interesting. Double overhead cams, fuel injection and gear driven balancer shafts ensure that not a single tingle reaches you and the whole experience is delightfully smooth. Flat out burnu p s a r e n o
soft motor is a natural cruiser that settles to a leisurely 75-80mph for as long as the fuel lasts, which is probably about 140/150 miles. The big limitation to high speeds (It will probably do 115 mph if you're so inclined) is the riding position - Oh! so comfy, but you do present the aerodynamics of a barn door. You can't help but be happy about the handling too: it's inspiring. Steering is precise and whatever the speed, there's a feeling of solid stability. Into bends and the Bonnie cranks over easily just as far as you want. In other words it does whatever you ask of it - no more, no less. A precise balance has been achieved between steering, weight and suspension characteristics so you won't experience wobbling or snaking over bad surfaces. Brakes are excellent too: powerful and with good feel. Now less of a handful than it used to be and replete in contemporary clothes, one of the beauties of the Bonneville is that every time you ride it your heart leaps, your pulse quickens and your head clears as you lock into one of motorcyclings romantic experiences. The fact that it is British is another intangible often lost on the modern generation. The sense of pride that wells up inside you when you're humming past hedgerows along twisty highways and byways gives a real boost to the joys of motorcycling in these turbulent times - when the Ministry of Nastiness dictates that soon vehicles will be satellite controlled and pedestrians will be shackled to limit the length of their stride. Nakedly nostalgic yet effortlessly contemporary, the Bonnie thuds deep into the emotional bullseye - and is reasonable value too at ÂŁ6,999.
Triumph Bonneville
As a young student in the Sixties, the only outlet for my raging hormones was either a fast twenty mile dash to spend an hour or so with a girl I knew or racing every Sunday afternoon to a cafe where like-minded Rockers drank frothy coffee and listened to Billy Fury and Elvis on the never silent juke box. Outside, the cobby silhouettes of British Iron filled the high street: Super Rockets, Dominators, Goldies, Velos and the occasional Constellation - they were all there - but one bike stood out from the rest. Renowned for its outright 'ballsy' performance, the Bonneville ruled the road. Sadly for me, as life moved on through its established stages and the weighty burden of career and conformity took over, I swapped my boots for brogues
and the Bonneville had to go as the delinquent in me died. But once a Bonneville enters you bloodstream there is no antibody that will remove it. Even now, for many an ageing rocker peering through rose-tinted and fly-spattered goggles, that big British twin distils the spirit of those heady days. Although the legend of the Bonnie isn't quite so fresh now, those too young to remember its heyday are amply provided with folklore about it. Maybe the time is ripe for the sort of bike on which you can relive those good old days while still coping with todays changed road conditions. Triumph have proved that it is - as the new Bonneville continues to be a best seller. Todays Bonnie is a very different bike from its ancestor which was born at a time when the complexity
of modern bikes was unthinkable. What was important then was simplicity, lightness and easy handling. It didn't matter that the factory machinery on which they were built worked to tolerances measured in yards and not microns - you'd be rebuilding the bike anyway after five thousand miles. After all - that's what spanners were for! Ye s t e r y e a r s objectives were well served by the pushrod parallel twin motor of the time. So, with double overhead cams, balancer shafts and electric starting, it begs the question 'should it still be
'responsible' society and that the Bonnie
longer what a Bonnie is about. The fairly
Issue 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 53
Golf Holidays www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk
The Blue Lagoon Villa is set on a tranquil hillside surrounded by beautiful Provençal gardens in an idyllic location. This is a charming five bedroom villa is located in a private domain and set back off a quiet back road leading up to the ancient village of Grimaud just four
minutes away. It has its own private swimming pool and jacuzzi and the town of St Tropez and its famous beaches are only 15 minutes away by car. Blue Lagoon villa is a child friendly environment making it ideal for families wanting to experience a home-from-home in the region. It sleeps ten in five bedrooms and also has five bathrooms with two separate toilets. The upper ground floor contains the drawing room, dining room, master bedroom with en-suite sitting room and bathroom, together with a terrace which extends along the length of the villa.
5 Bed Detached Rural Villa With Large Pool
The lower ground floor has a games room with pool table, bar area, and laundry area. It leads out into the garden and straight to the pool area where there can be found a large pool house with fully equipped kitchen, built-in BBQ, sun terrace and outside dining table. Seating areas can be found throughout the house grounds, also petanque and a large chess area can be found in the gardens. One review from a delighted holidaymaker on the Owners Direct website gave it a five star rating and described the villa as the most beautiful home they had ever stayed at in France. The review said: “The setting is breathtaking with beautiful landscaped gardens that offer you so many different settings to enjoy the outdoors. “The home is so beautifully decorated. The beautiful touches of the French quilts, and beautiful finishings are a testament to the owner who takes such care in finer details.” For further information, or to make a booking, send an email to janetsusanstrong@bluelagoon.info with your contact details and required dates.
Beautiful Villa With Private Pool Set In Mature Gardens Villa in Boulouris-sur-Mer, Nr. St Raphael, Cote D’Azur, France - Situated In The Tranquil Village 15 Minutes Walk From The Beach
Boulouris is a charming Provencal coastal village on the Cote d’Azur. The villa is at the end of a peaceful cul-de-sac, set in its own mature gardens with a large pool. The property comfortably sleeps 15 people within its six bedrooms and has 4 bathrooms and one separate loo. The reception areas are very spacious. The main reception room can be opened up onto the hall with folding french doors, and onto the front veranda with 2 further sets of French doors.
Villa in Espiche, Praia da Luz, Western Algarve, Portugal Totally Rural Location With Large Orchard Just 5 Minutes Drive From e Beach Large detached family villa in beautiful, peaceful location, fully modernised in 2012, offering every comfort for the discerning guest. Large 11m x 5m pool, beautiful gardens surrounded by g orchard. Highly equipped with luxury master suite with en suite jacuzzi bathroom and balcony. Fast unlimited wii, separate TV lounge with surround sound and UK and European TV channels. Fully equipped stylish new kitchen and utility room. High quality furnishings, bath including some ne antique items. 4 full bathrooms, all with bath and shower, large dining room with glass dome, Outdoor covered barbecue and dining area. • Sleeps: 10 • Bedrooms: 5 • Bathrooms: 4 • Internet • Swimming Pool • Parking • Barbecue For further information or to book please contact Hal on TEL: +351 924193698 Email: vsfenquiries@gmail.com or visit us on www.ownersdirect.com Property Code: 8158584
The veranda at the back of the property is especially large with two seating areas, which overlook the pool area and the back garden. The kitchen and dining areas are very well equipped for cooking and dining at home. But the area abounds with wonderful restaurants and if you wish to dine out, you will not be disappointed! The pool is large and the area surrounding it has been designed to accommodate sun-beds for everyone, whilst also allowing room for children to run and play. The gardens are lovely, delighting your every sense.
Sleeps 15 • 6 Bedrooms • 4 Bathrooms, 1 Separate Toilet • Swimming Pool • Barbecue • Internet • Dish Washer • Washing machines For further information or to book please call: +44 02088832076 or visit us on www.ownersdirect.co.uk property code: FR9002
54 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 30
Villa in Bahceli, Cyprus This charming villa is located in the Kyrenia region of Cyprus which is on the northern coast of the country and noted for its historic harbour and castle. It is just one minute’s walk from the sea front in Bahceli, near Esentepe, in a quiet, peaceful location with its own private pool. wi-fi and mountain and sea views. The villa sleeps six in three bedrooms with two bathrooms and has been recommended as being
Farmhouse in Doazon, Pau, Pyrenees Atlantiques, Aquitaine, France
ideal for families with young children, sightseeing, adventure seekers and those seeking a romantic getaway. For sports fans it is just a ten minute drive from the award winning 18 hole Korineum Golf and Country Club. For more information search the http://www. ownersdirect.co.uk/ website for property reference CY2288
Villa in Bahceli Nr. Esentepe, Kyrenia, Cyprus
The house is set in a small village (Doazon), right on the edge of a fantastic lake, where its possible to fish or just take a leisurely walk around. You truly understand the words 'relax and unwind' when you are sitting on the terrace looking out over the lake. Its a large house spread over 3 levels; there are 6 bedrooms easily accommodating 10 people as well as 4 bathrooms (2 being ensuites). The kitchen is well equipped with cooker, dish washer, fridges, freezer, coffee machine, microwave, toaster, kettle and many pots / pans. Outside there is a terrace, leading down to the pool area with a BBQ area off to the side; to be honest this area is where most people spend a majority of their time; its simply breath taking. The pool is 8m x 4m, ie plenty big enough to swim in. There are many lounges and tables located around the pool area. Try turning on the pool light whilst sitting on the terrace of an evening - wonderful!
Property type: Farmhouse • Sleeps: 10 • Bedrooms: 6 • Bathrooms/Toilets: 4 • Pool • Internet access • Golf • UK TV For further information or to book contact us on T: +44 7873472691 E: info@marwoodinvest.com.au www.ownersdirect.com: FR23665
Issue 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 55
Blue Lagoon Villa Lower Ground Floor
A charming five bedroom Villa surrounded by beautiful Provenรงal gardens with a private swimming pool and jacuzzi. The villa is in a private domain on a tranquil hillside with beautiful views, set back off a quiet back road leading up to the ancient village of Grimaud just 4 minutes away. The town of St Tropez and its famous beaches are only 15 minutes away by car. Blue Lagoon villa is a child friendly environment.
Games room [with pool table], bar area, small library and board games collection, 3 double bedrooms with en-suite shower/sink room, 1 twin bedded room with en-suite shower/sink and own private terrace area, laundry area [washer dryer] and toilet.This ground floor leads out into the garden and straight to the pool area.
Upper Ground Floor
Externally
Drawing room, dining room, master bedroom with en-suite sitting room and bathroom, all giving onto a terrace which extends the length of the villa. This floor also contains kitchen and guest toilet.
Pool, Jacuzzi and large pool house with fully equipped kitchen, built-in BBQ, sun terrace and outside dining table. Various seating areas throughout the house grounds, also a petanque and large chess area can be found in the gardens and a ping pong table. There are also large parking facilities for your vehicles
For further information please contact Janet by Email: janetsusanstrong@bluelagoon.info or visit our Website: www.bluelagoon.info
56 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 30
Russell Grants Monthly Horoscopes July 2015
ARIES March 21st - April 20th Fame, acclaim and rewards come your way in early July, thanks to a supportive Full Moon. If you’re looking for a job, you will land a fantastic position that calls on your ingenuity and creativity. Do you already have a job you enjoy? Then you’ll move up the ladder of success. Be sure to celebrate this special time with someone you love. A private little celebration is in order. Make reservations at your favourite restaurant and plan to see a show afterward. Striking a healthy balance between home and work will be challenging midmonth. Don’t neglect your relatives for the sake of your job. The New Moon on the 16th is perfect for family fun, like a reunion or group outing. A second Full Moon falls at the end of July, warning of burnout. Try not to spread yourself too thin. It might be a good idea to turn down a couple of invitations.
TAURUS April 21st - May 21st Early July is ideal for finding beautiful artwork and furniture for your home. Don’t be surprised when a generous relative gives you a gorgeous family heirloom. The Full Moon on the 2nd brings the successful conclusion of a legal matter. You can breathe a huge sigh of relief. Steer clear of an irritable colleague during the first half of the month. You will need this expert’s help sooner than you think. The New Moon on the 16th is perfect for taking a class. If you’re single, you will be sure to find love with one of your fellow students. A former lover will make their way back into your life in late July. Revisiting old times will be fun, but beware of renewing your commitment. A second Full Moon on the 31st forces you to cancel family plans for the sake of work. It really can’t be helped; your office will be terribly short staffed.
GEMINI May 22nd - June 21st The early days of July are ideal for settling debts and obligations. Use the energy of the Full Moon on the 2nd to pay bills, return equipment and keep your commitments. You’ll be very attractive to romance throughout the first half of the month. Use this period to seduce the object of your affection. Beware of spending beyond your means in mid-July, as unexpected expenses will put a crimp in your budget. The New Moon on the 16th is ideal for finding a better job, getting a raise, or finding another source of income. Neither a lender nor a borrower be during the second half of July. You wouldn’t want to spoil a perfectly good friendship over a petty matter like money. A second Full Moon falls on the 31st, forcing you to defend your beliefs to an insensitive neighbour or loved one. Don’t let this bully denigrate your ideas.
CANCER June 22nd - July 23rd Your creative talent will be emphasised in the early days of July. This is wonderful time to write, paint, dance and play music. The Full Moon on the 2nd marks an exciting turning point in a relationship. Your business partner could sign an important client, or your lover will get a great job. If you’re dating someone special, you might choose to move in with your amour. Be wary of subverting your needs for the sake of your partner. You need to assert your will, particularly at mid-month. The New Moon on the 16th is perfect for changing your look. Change the way you wear your hair, get a cosmetic procedure, or update your wardrobe. You’ll get positive feedback on an artistic endeavour during the second half of July. A second Full Moon on the 31st puts an additional strain on a troubled relationship. Think about parting ways from a sarcastic friend who is always putting you down.
LEO July 24th - August 23rd Your warmth, generosity and charm draw legions of admirers in the beginning of July. This is a great time to ask for favours, apply for loans, go on first dates and conduct job interviews. The Full Moon on the 2nd brings impressive results from a health program. You have a sexy glow that is impossible to resist. Beware of getting involved in secret deals at mid-month, or your professional relationships will suffer. The New Moon on the 16th is perfect for resting, relaxing and recharging your batteries. Sneak away to a private hideaway with the one you love. If you’re single, you will find romance on this journey. The second half of July gives you a double dose of charisma. It will be virtually impossible to resist your charms. A second Full Moon on the 31st prompts you to make a personal sacrifice for the one you love.
VIRGO August 24th - September 23rd Spending time on solitary pursuits will give July a wonderfully dreamy quality. Take this time to catch up on your reading, commune with nature and connect with your spiritual side. The Full Moon on the 2nd marks an exciting festive occasion. Be sure to wear something special to a party. If you’re in a relationship, your partner will be extra attentive. Are you single? You will meet someone special at this shindig. Meeting social obligations may be difficult at mid-month, because you’re so wrapped up in a romance. The New Moon on the 16th prompts you to go after a cherished dream. This is a great time to change direction if you are unhappy in your career. Even if you do love your job, you will benefit from having an engrossing hobby. A second Full Moon on the 31st brings a health problem to your attention. The sooner you get a check up, the faster you will find relief.
LIBRA September 24th - October 23rd Your social life sparkles throughout early July. You’ll have to field several invitations during this busy time. The Full Moon on the 2nd brings the satisfactory conclusion of a domestic matter. You might buy or sell a property, or add to your home’s value with some renovations. Your boss will be very impressed with your work throughout the first half of July, which is gratifying. It’s nice to know your efforts are being appreciated. If you’re out of work, the New Moon on the 16th is an ideal time to find a prestigious position. Be sure to ask a prominent friend to write you a reference. You’ll have more time for solitary pursuits during the second half of July. Take this opportunity to read, write and play music. Expressing your creative side will lift your spirits. A second Full Moon will rise on the 31st, putting strain on a romantic relationship.
SCORPIO October 24th - November 22nd You’ll be given a reward for a job well done in early July; get ready for your close up. The Full Moon on the 2nd marks the arrival of an important document. This arrangement will work heavily in your favour. A power struggle will erupt between you and an instructor on the 6th. Try not to make an enemy of this teacher, as you will need their support sooner than you think. Don’t let a defiant attitude hurt your chances with a potential employer in mid-July. The more cooperative you are, the easier it will be to land a plum position in your desired field. The New Moon on the 16th brings an exciting opportunity to travel, study, or write. It looks as if you will get paid to have fun, which is an even bigger bonus. A second Full Moon on the 31st will force you to scale back your office hours for the sake of family.
SAGITTARIUS November 23rd - December 21st A wonderful teaching or writing opportunity will fall in your lap at the beginning of July. It looks like you’ll be able to put a creative spin on this endeavour, which makes it even more enjoyable. You’ll get a handsome pay cheque on the 2nd, courtesy of the generous Full Moon. Put some of this windfall toward beautiful furnishings and artwork. If you’ve wanted to update the bathroom or kitchen, now is the time to do it. You’ll be bashful and shy at a social gathering on the 14th, perhaps because you are attracted to one of the guests. The New Moon on the 16th is perfect for expanding your lovemaking repertoire. Ask your partner for suggestions on improving your technique. A second Full Moon on the 31st brings startling news about a relative. You might have to postpone a holiday as a result. Try not to be disappointed. This cancellation will be a blessing in disguise.
CAPRICORN December 22nd - January 20th The early days of July promise to be a delight to the senses. If you have a romantic partner, spend as much time locked in each other’s arms as possible. Are you single? Your leadership skills will attract the attention of a talented artist. Together, you will make a very handsome couple. Beware of imposing your will on a business partner on the 6th, or your relationship won’t withstand the strain. It’s also important to be accommodating with your boss during the first half of July, as a staff shortage will make everyone irritable. The New Moon on the 16th is ideal for making up, getting engaged, or reciting vows. Your best friend or lover will help you realise a cherished dream on or around the 21st. This calls for a celebration. A second Full Moon falls on the 31st, warning against unnecessary expenditures. Be frugal as July turns to August.
AQUARIUS January 21st - February 19th Early July promises to be a very romantic time. If you’re in a relationship, think about taking a luxury holiday with your amour. Are you single? You could meet someone special at work. The Full Moon on the 2nd prompts you to rest, relax and reflect. There’s never been a better time to sneak off to a waterside resort. You’ll feel rebellious in mid-July, which will cause problems with a colleague who wants to do things by the book. Resist the urge to push their buttons. The New Moon on the 16th is ideal for embarking on a fitness routine. You might want to ask a friend to join you on workouts, just to stay accountable. A friend’s sarcasm is too much to bear on the 19th. You need to be honest about how these scathing comments affect you. A second Full Moon falls on the 31st, prompting you to make more demands of a romantic or business partner.
PISCES February 20th - March 20th The opening days of July are perfect for going on a shopping spree. You’re overdue for a splurge. The Full Moon on the 2nd marks a lovely celebration for friends. Be sure to arrive a little early to this event, as your assistance will be needed with the set up. Favourable publicity for a creative project arrives on or around the 8th. Get ready for your close up. The New Moon on the 16th brings exiting news about a birth, engagement, or love affair. An intellectually stimulating class will fill your time during the second half of July, but your boss may resent all the time you spend on this course. Try to strike a careful balance between your personal and professional lives. A second Full Moon on the 31st brings an embarrassing secret to light. If you exaggerated the extent of your experience at work, it’s time to come clean. Your colleagues will respect your honesty.
Issue 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 57
Sport
www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk
Relief to be on the podium.
Sennan Fileding shows his pace.
FRUSTRATED FIELDING TAKES MSA WIN but we’ve had a few technical issues and everyone’s been working hard to sort it out. The problem is changing gears. “Testing at Thruxton we had no problem at all and were quickest, but we came to Donington and straight away we had problems. When the problems come you don’t have full confidence in the car and it just brings you a step back. In qualifying the problem was worse, which is very frustrating. The MSA Formula guys are trying to sort out whether or not it’s a Gear selection problems have blighted small electrical problem.” the start to Sennan Fielding’s season. Sennan made a great start to run second at Donington After a frustrating start to his before the problem returned season, plagued by technical and he had to be content with problems, Sennan Fielding has third at the flag. “A good start,” finally taken his maiden win in said Sennan afterwards, “ then MSA Formula at Oulton Park. we had problems with the gear The young Chesterfield racer changes which is a real dilemma, was expected to be among the but we have the right people front runners in MSA Formula, around to get it sorted.” Sadly but gear selection problems the problems continued into the have proved difficult to overcome final race, forcing Sennan into despite the attentions of his team retirement. JHR Developments, also from Sennan has returned to his Chesterfield, and technicians local team for his MSA Formula from the series organisers. challenge having raced for “It’s been a challenging start to JHR in Ginetta Juniors in 2012, the season,” said Sennan when finishing second having taken the series visited Donington Park five wins. “We should have won in April. “We’ve had a very quick the championship. JHR have car and been quick in the tests always given me a great car
and whatever series they go into they’ve always got a car that’s capable of being up at the front.” Two years in Formula 4 followed and peaked when Sennan took all three wins in last year’s Silverstone meeting, so hopes were high for his MSA Formula campaign. This series has taken over from Formula Ford as the first recognised step on the ladder to Formula 1 but, sadly, is now the only step o the British domestic racing scene. Ironically the British Formula 3 championship, through which many F1 greats passed including Nigel Mansell, Ayrton Senna and current F1 stars Jensen Button and Daniel Ricciardo, has been shelved due to lack of support, while the European championship has seen record entry levels. Meanwhile Sennan made a great start, at Oulton Park, to lead from pole-sitter Daniel Baybutt. It was a fairly uneventful race, but that won’t worry Sennan who took a comfortable win over two seconds clear of Matheus Leist with Baybutt back in third. Sennan confirmed his pace in the final race when, having started back in tenth, he crossed the line third to complete his best weekend of the year so far and Sennan now moves up to sixth in the points table.
58 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 30
FORMULA E – ROUND 9 PIQUET MASTERS MOSCOW
Nelson Piquet Jr celebrates in Red Square.
N
elson Piquet Jr heads for the Formula e finale, two races in London, with a 17 point cushion after his second win of the season. The Brazilian will be full of confidence after a flawless drive to victory around Red Square. Piquet qualified his Team China Racing car just 0.020 seconds behind Andretti Autosport’s JeanEric Vergne but got a much better start to lead into the first turn. Not one to waste the opportunity, Piquet then set about building a commanding lead, some six seconds at two-thirds distance. He was able to ease off towards the flag, having less power in reserve than his pursuers, but remained a comfortable two seconds clear at the flag. “We got really prepared coming to Russia,” said Piquet afterwards. “We knew it would be an important race for us after, I would say, not a very strong performance in Berlin. I think everything was important, especially qualifying well was really important here. I think if I hadn’t qualified at the front
Buemi’s great drive yielded only 2 points for fastest lap.
it would have been close to impossible to win the race. I qualified very well, and had a great start. I think a bit of luck, good reaction, and set-up helps a little bit. We just did a great job, everything worked perfectly.” Consistency has been the key to Piquet’s championship challenge. He has finished in the top four in every race since failing to finish round two in Malaysia and now heads to London with 128 points. Lucas di Grassi (Audi Sport Abt) passed Vergne at the mid-race car swap but an overheating battery slowed his challenge as he closed on the leader. There is no love lost between the Brazilian rivals and second place in the race keeps di Grassi well in touch, in second, with 111 points. There are 50 points up for grabs in the two London races together with points for qualifying and race fastest laps. Third over the line in Moscow should have put Sebastian Buemi (e.dams Renault) just ten points adrift of Piquet, but a badly botched pit-stop ruined his day. Unable to pass di Grassi and Vergne, the Swiss driver had conserved energy well in the first stint and pitted a lap later than the rest, giving him more energy available with which to mount a late challenge in his second car. Unfortunately the e.dams team, believing the mandatory pit-stop was a minimum of 68 seconds, held both Buemi and team mate Nicolas Prost for ten seconds longer than the required 58 seconds. Buemi had not lost position, on his return, but had lost a lot of ground to the, now, third placed Vergne. Great drives brought Buemi (fastest lap) and Venturi’s Nick Heidfeld up to Vergne and they both squeezed past the F1 refugee on the final lap. Buemi’s delight at a podium finish turned to dismay, later, when 29 seconds were added to his race time, the equivalent to a drive through penalty, for his team
releasing him unsafely from his pit-stop into the path of Heidfeld. This put Buemi back to ninth place and now leaves him third in the championship (105 points) with Prost a remote fourth on 82. So the ten Formula e teams, all based at Donington Park, return to Britain for a double-header showdown in London’s Battersea Park, three drivers realistically in with a chance to take the inaugural Formula e title, and a slice of history. The Derbyshire Guardian will bring you a full report in the next issue.
Nelson Piquet Jr extended his title lead with victory in Moscow.
Second place keeps Lucas di Grassi in the title hunt.
Issue 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 59
RAMS STRENGTHEN SQUAD FOR PROMOTION PUSH ”DERBY HAVE PLANS TO BE SUCCESSFUL AND I WANT TO BE PART OF THAT. THE OPPORTUNITY TO PLAY FIRST-TEAM FOOTBALL AND DRIVE THE TEAM TO PROMOTION IS SOMETHING THAT I WANT TO DO.”
Scott Carson >> Continues from back page Weimann, capped 13 times by his country at full international level, arrives at Derby with over 100 top flight appearances to his name. He is capable of playing in a number of attacking positions and
further strengthens the options at Paul Clement’s disposal. Vienna born Weimann joined Aston Villa in 2006, from Austrian side Rapid Vienna, at the age of 15 after catching the eye of a number of clubs in the Premier League and further afield. He made his first team debut in 2010 and joined Watford, on loan, twice in 2011. Over the last three seasons Weimann has featured regularly for Villa where he made 129 appearances, his best goals tally coming in 2012/13 when he scored 13 times. “It’s an exciting time for Derby County,” said Weimann. ”Derby have plans to be successful and I want to be part of that. The opportunity to play firstteam football and drive the team to promotion is
something that I want to do.” Chris Baird insists everything about Derby County is ‘geared up for the Premier League’ after becoming the club’s fifth signing of the summer. The 33-yearold will bring experience to the defence and has signed a two-year deal, with the option of a further 12 months, after leaving West Bromwich Albion. Baird sees the Rams’ other four signings as ‘top quality’, saying “The players the club have been bringing in so far have been top quality and that can only stand us in good stead for the season ahead. The leagues (Barclays Premier League and Sky Bet Championship) are very different, but everything about this club is geared up to be playing in the Premier League. I have come here to help in any way that I can, I just want to play football. “There are sides in the Premier League that don’t get the crowds that Derby do so it will be nice to get them week in-week out and hopefully we will get our rewards come the end of the season.” Derby are also hopeful of bringing Tom Ince back to
the iPro, together with Jason Shackle. Ince scored 11 goals in 18 loan appearances for the Rams, last season, including 2 on his debut. It is likely that Derby will have to fork out a record fee, around £4.5 million, if they are to secure Ince’s services from Hull. Former Rams captain Shackle left for Burnley where he was ever-present in the promotion and Premiership campaigns. Burnley manager Sean Dyche has already rejected a bid for the defender, so it is likely to cost significantly more than the £1.1 million, paid by Burnley, if he is to return. Among the players not to be offered new contracts were John Eustace and Jamie Ward. 35-yearold Eustace joined Derby in the summer of 2013 following his release by Watford and went on to make 53 appearances in two seasons at the iPro Stadium. A knee injury limited him to 14 appearances last season, with his last outing coming in January. Northern Ireland international Ward scored 26 goals in 104 appearances for the Rams and is being linked with a move to Nottingham Forest.
TEAM WIGGINS CONFIRMED FOR THE REVOLUTION SERIES Sir Bradley Wiggins to feature at opening round in Derby in August
Team Wiggins will join the Revolution Elite Championship this season using the Series to fine tune their form ahead of the London World Track Championships and Rio Olympics. The team, founded by Sir Bradley Wiggins, has been designed to prepare Great Britain’s Team Pursuit riders for track cycling success at the Rio Olympics and the Revolution Series will form a key part of their race schedule ahead of Olympic year. The opening round at the new Derby Arena will be a crucial first test for the squad with an extended race programme featuring Team Pursuit, Individual Pursuit, Omnium and Madison. Sir Bradley Wiggins is confirmed to race the Team Pursuit and individual Pursuit with the rest of the Team Wiggins squad racing across all the elite events. Sir Bradley Wiggins said: “We’re excited to start the track season with Team Wiggins and begin the build up to the Olympics. I remember racing the very first Revolution in 2003 so I’m looking forward to getting back in front of the Revolution crowds and enjoying some good racing.” With the squad featuring multiple world and Olympic medallists, Team Wiggins will be a serious contender for the Revolution Elite Championship and will be able to draw from track talent including
Andy Tennant, Steven Burke, Owain Doull, Mark Christian, Jonathan Dibben, Chris Lawless and Sir Bradley Wiggins himself. Face Partnership CEO and Revolution Series promoter, James Pope said: “We’re looking forward to welcoming Team Wiggins to the Revolution Series this year. After a close contest last season between Champions, Maloja Pushbikers, and OricaGreenEDGE the addition of Team Wiggins is sure to take the racing up another level and their calibre of track riders will make them a serious contender to take the Championship title”. “It’s fantastic that Sir Bradley will race the opening round in Derby along with the rest of Team Wiggins. We’ll be announcing many more Olympic stars for this event over the coming weeks so it’s going to be a spectacular debut for Derby Arena.” Round 1 in Derby will take place between 14 and 16 August with four sessions of racing across the three days. It will be the first major event to be hosted in the newly developed multi-purpose arena and will be an important opportunity for Team GB riders to gain UCI qualification points ahead of Rio 2016. For more information and to purchase tickets go to www.cyclingrevolution.com. Hospitality tickets are also on sale for Derby and available to buy online here.
60 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 30
DONINGTON WORLD SUPERBIKES SYKES’ SUPER SIX
T
om Sykes took a superb double World Superbike victory at Donington Park, at the end of May, to take his unbeaten run here to a sensational six races. Kawasaki team mate, and championship leader, Jonathan Rea fought all the way to the line in the opener and Sykes’ victories also maintains a British domination of the 2015 season with all twelve race wins to British riders. Sykes had pole position but a great start, from row 2, carried local hero Leon Haslam into the lead on his Red Devils Aprilia though the Old Hairpin. Rea was also on the attack, snatching second from Sykes at the Foggy Esses before cutting inside Haslam, through Redgate for the second time, to lead. The leading positions remained static until Sykes passed Haslam on lap 6 and set about Rea. Just at the half-way point Sykes dived under the leader at the tight Melbourne Hairpin, forcing the Irishman to sit-up, and the fight was on. As they traded places, Sykes again cut inside as Rea left a small gap, through the lefthander at Goddards, and the pair touched as they attacked the straight. Sykes took a slight advantage, while Rea regained his composure, but the pair were soon together again as Rea set a
new race lap record of 1m 27.914. Only in the closing laps did Sykes establish a winning lead, crossing the line 3.7 seconds clear. Chaz Davies (Aruba.it Ducati) finally mastered his bogey track to take third, ahead of Haslam. His lights-to-flag victory in race 2 was more typical of Sykes’ recent domination of Donington. He was never threatened, although Leon Haslam made a second blistering start to follow the Yorkshireman through the opening stages. Smalley rider Haslam said fatigue denied him the chance to challenge for podium finishes at his home event but, with two fourth places, he retained second place in the WSBK standings. Haslam had been a doubt to compete after suffering a nasty crash while racing at Imola two weeks earlier and was only cleared to race after passing a fitness test on Thursday. “I'm fairly pleased with the results today considering my condition,” Haslam said. “Obviously I would have liked to have been on the podium for my fans, but I think that in the end two fourth places are the most we could have aimed for. I started well in both races and then I started feeling the fatigue.” “In spite of it all, even here we showed that we are in the game,” he added. Jonathan Rea recovered from a nasty moment to maintain his record of a top-two finish in every race this season. On the
All smiles on the podium: Jonathan Rea (second), Tom Sykes (first) and Chaz Davies (third). second lap Rea's bike lurched from underneath him through Coppice but, incredibly, he was able to control the Kawasaki. This dropped him down to seventh, but, such was the Kawasaki dominance, Rea was able to carve his way through the pack to take second ahead of Davies. Sykes’ six World Superbike race victories at Donington Park equals the record of the legendary Carl Fogarty for most wins at the circuit and he was also able to lower the lap record, in race 2, to 1m 27.748s.
“It's been the perfect weekend. We had to dig a bit deeper but overall I'm happy, we've turned a corner,” said a jubilant Sykes. “The difference between here and Imola is minimal, but Jonathan is strong at that circuit. I'm very happy, it has been a great weekend. “The Kawasaki Racing team has done a great job, 1-2 in wins and in qualifying, so it is fantastic. Speaking for myself, I'm really pleased we've finally turned that corner and now we can focus on the rest of the season.”
Derby’s Alex Lowes felt his Voltcom Crescent Suzuki squad made big improvements at his home round and he was satisfied with a pair of sixth place finishes. “I'm happy enough as the boys and the bike worked well and I did my best to be as competitive as possible,” said Lowes. “I was struggling with grip in both races and with confidence on corner entry which lost me some time, but the second race felt better than the first. “We've made some big steps forward, so now we've got
something to build on to keep improving further for the next race. I did all I could and the team did a fantastic job and, as ever, the support here was great.” Leon Haslam held on to second spot in the World Superbike riders' championship by one point from double race winner Sykes while Rea, 8 victories so far, extended his lead to 101 points with his pair of second places.
Photos by Paul Horton Motorsport Photography
Leon Haslam is still recovering Leon Haslam had to settle for a pair of fourth places.
Sykes celebrates his double victory.
Alex Lowes felt there was improvement.
from his Imola crash.
Issue 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 61
DONINGTON PARK HSCC
Classic F3 champion David Shaw at the wheel of his March.
CHAMPION SHAW OPENS 2015 ACCOUNT David Shaw, Derby’s Classic F3 champion opened his account for the season, in defence of his 2014 title, with a win at the recent Historic Sports Car Club meeting at Donington Park. David owns Nelson Piquet’s 1978 championship winning Ralt, but is currently campaigning a 1980 March 803B with local history. “Last year I had the privilege to race at Monaco and in qualifying I banged up the Ralt pretty badly,” he explained. “I managed to race but it needed a new tub. It’s still being rebuilt by G-Cat Racing, so I rented this car for a couple of drives and then managed to buy it. I finished the season and managed to win the championship last year. This March is ex-Mike White and Autowindscreens was a local sponsor as was Bob Gerard Honda, so this is a car with a local history.” Mike White had a number of podium finishes in the car in 1980 and one win, at Silverstone, ahead of future Grand Prix star Michele Alboreto and Eddie Jordan.
“I missed the first race of this season,” David added, “so I’m pleased to win the class and it was a good turn out today, we had about 15 Classic F3 cars which is pretty good.” David was 3 seconds ahead of his nearest class challenger, Maxim Bartell in his Chevron B34. The Classic F3 field was combined with the Derek Bell Trophy race and Richard Evans was untroubled to take overall victory in his Formula Atlantic March 79B. He was 12 seconds clear of a fierce scrap for second in which Ian Ashley (Lola T300) prevailed by 0.17 seconds from the Surtees of Greg Thornton. Further back, Ashbourne’s Mike Wrigley stormed through the field from last to finish seventh overall. Mike had qualified sixth in his Ralt RT1, only to leave the pit lane late after his fuel pump had been accidentally switched off. The HSCC’s annual visit to Donington is always hugely entertaining and their visit, at the end of May, was no exception with some close racing at the sharp end. The most dramatic finish of all came in the final race of the day, for Classic Racing Cars. Polesitter Andy Jarvis’s early braking in his Palliser WDB2, at the chicane, caught out the challenging Ian Jones who took to the grass in his Lotus 59. The Kiwi recovered in fifth place and set about chasing down the leaders. Jones called on all of his vast experience to pass Benn Simms, for second, and then Jarvis at Coppice Corner on the final lap. Jarvis squeezed back ahead into the final chicane, but ran wide on the exit and Jones pulled alongside, carrying more speed. It was a drag race to the line with Jones taking the win by just 0.002 seconds.
The white cars of Simon Hadfield (left) and Rob Wainwright head the Historic FF field.
David Shaw took his first Classic F3 win of the season.
Mike Wrigley scored another top ten finish, in his Elden Mk8, in the Historic Formula Ford event while son Matthew was close behind in the family’s Merlyn Mk 20A. Up front Swadlincote racer Rob Wainwright (Elden Mk8) was all over Simon Hadfield’s Lotus 51, but could not find a way past. It was only in the closing laps that Hadfield managed to create a small gap to cross the line 7 seconds clear. The meeting had kicked off with a close three-way tussle in the Historic Formula Ford 2000 race as the lead changed hands between champion Benn Simms, Andrew Park and Callum Grant. Park (Reynard SF81) was ahead when it counted, but only by 0.393 seconds from Grant (Delta T78). John Davison had a comfortable lead as his Lotus Elan pulled away from the Historic Road Sports field, only to suffer a differential failure on the penultimate lap, handing victory to Richard Plant’s Morgan Plus 8. Jim Dean (Lotus Europa) hounded Peter Shaw’s TVR Tuscan in 70s Road Sports and the pressure paid off and he squeezed past as blue smoke suggested the TVR may have an oil leak. Martin O’Connell took the Guards Trophy win by a full lap in his Chevron B8, but Tim Davies had to fight hard to win the Historic Touring Cars race. Lap after lap his Lotus Cortina crossed the line side-by-side with Warren Briggs’ Ford Mustang before pulling out a small lead towards the end. At the back TV Dragon Theo Paphitis was making his race debut in a Ford Anglia. A life-long fan of motor racing, he was supported by his friend, classic car expert
Quentin Wilson, as he gains experience for a TV racing project and afterwards declared “I survived!”
Rob Wainwright after his second place in Historic Formula Ford.
Classic Racing Cars podium: Benn Simms (third), Ian Jones (first) and Andy Jarvis (second).
62 Derbyshire Guardian | Issue 30
TEAM DERBY TAKE NATIONAL TITLE Team Derby emerged victorious, as champions, from the National Badminton League's finals day at the K2 Arena in Sussex. The inaugural season culminated in a winner-takesall knockout day between the four leading teams from the league stage of the competition. The University of Derby based team overcame local rivals Nottingham in the semi-final before taking a dramatic final win in another East Midlands derby against Loughborough. “I feel like I had a responsibility to the team. I am one of the older players and I knew that I had to play well here,” admitted jubilant captain Rajiv Ouseph, after he won, what proved to be, the crucial event in the final. “You need to get off to a good start in the NBL and it is crucial to be switched on in this format,” he added. “Derby has given us so much support and it would have been a waste if we hadn't made the final. To win the first NBL is a great honour as the team backers have put so much into the franchise.” Around 1,100 fans were packed the K2 auditorium, in front of Sky Sports cameras. The new rules have proved a revelation. A first-to-nine format, power plays, colourful presentations and, most importantly, exciting badminton have captured a new audience for the sport in the same way that Twenty20 has reinvigorated cricket. Team Derby had beaten University of Nottingham Sport in their semi-final, 3-2, while Loughborough Sport had outgunned Surrey Smashers, the pretournament favourites, 5-0.
Time out: Gail Emms (left) consults coach Donna Kellogg.
Teenagers Tiara Samuel and Lydia Powell in action.
Rajiv Ouseph scored a crucial victory. In the final Chris Coles and Andy Ellis raced through the opening men's doubles tie in double quick time beating Loughborough’s Peter Briggs & Greg Mairs 3-0 to hand Team Derby an early lead. Having picked up an injury,Derby head coach Donna Kellogg and women’s doubles partner Kate Robertshaw made way for the youthful Lydia Powell and Tiara Samuel, a great opportunity for the teenagers to get a flavour of the big occasion. However, this time Loughborough Sport captain Jenny Wallwork and Chloe Birch were in commanding form and ran out winners in straight games. The final looked like hinging on the men's singles event between Ouseph and Swedish star Henri Hurskainen, who had beaten the English number one when the two met in the league fixture earlier in the season. The Swede thought he had taken a 2-1 lead at 8-8 in the third game, but an Ouseph smash at the net was called good. It paved the way for a frenetic tiebreak that Ouseph took 5-4. England internationals Marcus Ellis and Lauren Smith combined brilliantly to record an emphatic, power-driven 3-0 mixed doubles win over Martin Campbell and Gail Emms. So the destination of the Championship would be decided by the final match of the season, the women's singles clash between the Bulgarian and
Rajiv Ouseph lifts the NBL trophy.
“The players' team spirit has been great and it's the players who have achieved this.”
Chris Coles celebrates an important point.
German No 1's Linda Zetchiri and Karin Schnaase. Schnaase, along with Ouseph had only returned to the UK on Saturday from the Indonesian Open after a month-long series of international tournaments. There was no sign of jet-lag as Schnaase racked up a succession of winners in her 3-0 triumph to seal the title for Team Derby. As Team Derby prepared to collect the trophy, Donna Kellogg took a deep breath, as she began to take in the magnitude of victory. “It has been an awesome day,” she said. “The players' team spirit has been great and it's the players who have achieved this.” The head coach then hailed the impact of Ouseph and Schnaase. “They could have folded under the fatigue and mental stress, but
Issue 30 | Derbyshire Guardian 63
DERBY GET THEIR MAN
PAUL CLEMENT CAN’T WAIT TO GET STARTED
A
s expected, Paul Clement has been appointed as head coach at Derby County, successor to Steve McClaren. Clement, 43, has signed a three-year contract at the iPro Stadium after leaving his role as assistant manager at Spanish giants Real Madrid to join the Rams. Derby have made the decision to maintain the structure implemented on the football side of the club since September 2013 by appointing Clement as their Head Coach. It was Clement’s excellent coaching credentials, honed over a long period working with some of Europe’s top sides that led to him becoming Derby’s preferred candidate to move the club forwards at a key time. He will take charge with immediate effect and was due to meet Derby’s squad for the first time when they reported back for pre-season training in June to begin their preparations for the 2015/16 season. The news of Clement’s appointment was first announced on Derby County’s website where President and Chief Executive Sam Rush commented: “Paul Clement is one of the most in-demand coaches in world football and I am delighted that he has agreed to join Derby County as our new Head Coach. He is hugely respected, has exceptional relationships throughout football and tremendous coaching experience at some of the very best clubs in Europe. “He is the perfect appointment at the next stage of Team Derby are the national champions. they didn't and they performed brilliantly,” she said. “I fed off the energy of the crowd and off the team to get through that,” said team captain Ouseph who became the first to lift the NBL trophy. “To win the title for Derby is important and the NBL shows what the city is all about.” Gail Emms came out of retirement to help her old doubles partner Donna Kellogg to set up the team in Derby. This is the realisation of a long-held dream for the former World, European and Olympic champion. “I did not expect this at all,” she said. “For me, I’ve been chomping to get this league going in my playing days and to be part of it, it’s just brilliant. And we’re champions as well! Oh, it’s lovely, and manager Donna Kellogg, she was my doubles partner. We’re just in a bit of disbelief at the moment. I’m just so pleased for her.”
Time out: Gail Emms (left) consults coach Donna Kellogg.
Ville Vuorinen – Badminton England
“For me, it is going to be the biggest challenge, no question about that”
Derby County’s development and we are looking forward to the coming season with a great deal of optimism.” “I’m incredibly excited to be joining Derby County as Head Coach and I am looking forward to meeting the players and getting started,” said Paul Clement on Derby’s website after the appointment. “This is a massive club with fantastic facilities and a superb fan base who deserve success. “Having spoken with Sam Rush and the owners I firmly believe we share the same desires and ambitions and that is to once again make Derby County a Premier League club.” Paul Clement, who has known Sam Rush for some time, has been assistant to Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid for the past two years but, with the Italian losing his job, the way was 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, and is looking forward to the task ahead. “For me, it is going to be the biggest challenge, no question about that,” said Clement when he met the press for the first time as Derby’s head coach. “I already get the sense of expectation and responsibility that comes with the job here. I am excited about that. I thought at some point I would like the opportunity to be a head coach and this is a fantastic opportunity.” Sam Rush knows that, even though this is Clement’s first time in charge, he is no stranger to the big occasion, and Clement has set his sights high. “I can’t wait to get started,” said Clement. “I want to get this team in to the Premier League and I want to do it as soon as possible.” Ambition is running through the Rams board, appetites wetted after two seasons of great promise, and the appointment of Derby businessman Mel Morris as chairman only underlines that burning desire. He is keen for Paul Clement to get the funding he needs to bring the right calibre of player to strengthen the playing squad for the new campaign. Several targets were linked with moves to Derby in the period leading up to Clement’s arrival and the new head coach has confirmed his interest in those players, some of who have already arrived (see separate story). Paul Clement’s first appointment to his backroom staff was fitness coach Karl Hababi who worked alongside Clement at Chelsea and Fulham. The positions of coaches Paul Simpson and Eric Steele have, at the time of writing, still to be decided.
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DERBY GET THEIR MAN PAUL CLEMENT CAN’T WAIT TO GET STARTED
>> See full story on Page 63
RAMS STRENGTHEN SQUAD FOR PROMOTION PUSH
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erby County have made a number of significant signings as the club gears-up for a serious push for promotion in the coming season. The appointment of Paul Clement has, once again, given club officials and fans the hope of great things to come, and the quality of the summer signings reflect this. After weeks of speculation Derby have signed Aston Villa’s out-of-contract striker Darren Bent on a two-year deal with an option for a third year. The permanent move follows his impressive loan spell, last season, when the 31 year old scored 12 goals in 13 starts. Bent says he enjoyed his loan spell with the Rams but his team mates played a big part in helping him reach such an impressive tally. “I always knew I was coming into a good side who played some good stuff. I’m delighted to have the chance to come back to play here permanently.” “Darren Bent is a proven goalscorer,” said head coach Paul Clement. “That was something he proved during his loan spell with the club last season. He is going to be key in our plans to move forward.” Bent’s loan came at a crucial time as leading scorer Chris Martin was sidelined with a hamstring injury. “I really enjoyed my spell on loan last season,”
Andreas Weimann signs, watched by Sam Rush.
Darren Bent.
Bent added. “Everyone at the club made me feel so welcome when I first arrived and that helped make the decision so easy for me.” Bent’s signature was swiftly followed by that of 26 year old Republic of Ireland defender Alex Pearce, from Reading, on a 3 year contract. Pearce has been with Reading since the age of 12. He made 194 appearances for the Royals, and captained the side that gained promotion to the Premiership in 2012. “I need a fresh challenge and this, with Derby, is exactly what I’m looking for,” Pearce told the Rams website. “The ambition of the club was a huge pull for me. There is a clear vision here at Derby to not
only get into the Premier League, but stay there and that is something that you want to be part of as a player.” Paul Clement was pleased with his acquisition. “Alex Pearce is an experienced central defender. He is strong, physical and an international footballer with a lot of good qualities.” Derby have also strengthened the goalkeeping options available with the signing of England international Scott Carson on a two-year contract, with the option of a further year. The 29-year-old, with four caps, joins in an undisclosed deal from Wigan Athletic. “Competition for places across the squad is
important and Scott’s arrival certainly brings that to the goalkeeping department,” said Clement. “We have two good goalkeepers already, in Lee Grant and Kelle Roos, and bringing Scott in will certainly raise the battle for the place between the posts.” Joining Darren Bent is former Aston Villa team-mate Andreas Weimann, who was out of favour at Villa Park. The 23-year-old Austrian international striker has joined the Rams on a four-year deal for an undisclosed fee, despite interest from a number of Premier League clubs.
>> Continues on page 59