Derby November 2018 by Alistair Plant

A shbourne’s COUNTRY

Late night shopping Event

Derby Edition - November 2018

A friend dropping in

Steve Orme interviews

Thimble Collecting Fashion Season of mists and mellow hues

Steve Orme interviews

Graham Gouldman

Walking with the Aristocracy

of Derbyshire

Bolsover Castle to Scarsdale Hall

Meynell Langley

A Weekend Visit to Bergen

The Lost Houses

Langley Hall

The

Majestic Oak at a Glance

Rachael’s Secret Tea Room

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Welcome to our November edi tion.

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Garry and th e team Our North Edition front cover this month is by Lor Bird and called ‘Inspired Reflections’ Exhibition statement: Inspired reflections is an exhibition that will bring together 3 established Derbyshire artists: Sara Brighty, John McDonald and Lor Bird in a collaboration that will explore each artist’s personal reflections of their lived experience and what inspires their art. This exhibition is intended to explore some of the hidden or intuitive aspects of an artists’ work and shine a light on what can inspire an artist to be creative. It will include work that has been specifically commissioned for this exhibition, including portraits of each artist. The exhibition launches on the 08 November at 7pm. The exhibition closes on 12 January 2019 with a life drawing session which is open to the public (drawing equipment not provided). Special thanks to Stephen Munn at Deda 8th November - 12th January 2019: Group Exhibition Inspired Reflections, De Da, Derby 23rd - 25th November Banks Mill open Studios

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A Weekend Visit to Bergen

With short breaks becoming popular, Brian Spencer takes a two-day trip to Bergen, Norway’s Hansiatic sea-port link with an early version of the E.U.

ateway to the Fjords of Norway’s west coast, Bergen is classed as not only a European City of Culture, but a World Heritage City and UNESCO City of Gastronomy, as well as serving the needs of North Sea oil and gas installations. Despite being a vibrantly busy city, both commercially as well as historically, Bergen oﬀers something for everyone, be it sight-seeing, cruising along the nearby fjords, or enjoying the readily accessible seven hills surrounding this fascinating city. An ‘on/oﬀ ’ bus service runs round the city, giving an ideal way to get to know the place before actually starting to explore the place in detail. 8 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

We began our visit by exploring the vibrant quays of a harbour that reaches right into the city centre. Being careful with our kroner because, let’s face it, Norway is expensive, but we found there are ways of keeping expenses in check, so we armed ourselves with Two-Day Bergen Cards that gave us free access or reduced prices to a wide range of places and activities. We bought these at Bergen Information Oﬃce down on the

old fish market. Nowadays fresh fish is no longer sold from outdoor stalls, but from a modern indoor affair where everything that swims or crawls beneath the waves is on offer. Another cost-saving deal, at least for the over sixties, gives much reduced prices on public transport as well as cable cars and some buses. Simply asking for an ‘honor rabatt’, makes fares quite cheap. No need for an expensive rail card or bus pass, simply saying the magic words has the desired effect; I was once politely told off for not asking for my reduced fare. Following the quayside leads into to the oldest part of Bergen. Known as the Bryggen, the gabled frontage of steeply gabled timber old warehouses

Bergen; the old town looking up to Mount Fløyen

Above: Ally ways to the old Hanseatic warehouses. Below: Ornate Bryggen doorway.

were once owned by merchant members of the German Hanseatic League. Wandering darkly into a warren of storage dens and box-like bedrooms, the place must have been hardly the pleasantest place to live and work, for the main trade was in dried cod. Still a popular ‘delicacy’ in some parts of Equatorial Africa, in days gone by dried fish was traded with Baltic countries in exchange for corn and timber. This organisation covered almost the whole of north-eastern Europe, extending even as far as East Anglia. A World Heritage Site, the very first buildings in Bergen were situated around the Bryggen, and soon became the most vibrant part of the city. Being mainly timber built the district was ravaged

by fire many times, especially in 1702 when the whole area was reduced to ashes. Rebuilt on the old foundations, the Bryggen is virtually unchanged despite the passing of centuries, but where dried cod was once stored this has now become a popular museum, shopping and restaurant district. A stroll through Bryggen’s dark and narrow alleyways with their overhanging galleries is to step back in time to a bygone era. Continuing along the old wharf, past the mooring of the sailing ship ‘Statsraad Lehmkuhl’ which has visited Britain more than once as part of the Tall Ships Race, you will soon reach the fortress and its sixteenth-century Rozenkrantz Tower that once guarded the entrance to Bergen’s

harbour. In 1665 during the Anglo-Dutch War, the Bergen Festning (Bergen Fortress), was inadvertently involved in a skirmish with ships of King Charles II. On 1st August 1665, the British fleet chased a Dutch convoy laden with gold and spices into Bergen Fjord. Thinking they were going to capture the Dutch fleet without any further problems, the English admiral was dismayed to find his fleet being fired at by the Norwegian fortress. Apparently King Frederick III of Denmark (Norway was then part of Denmark), had broken his treaty with Holland and given the English permission to attack the Dutch. Unfortunately his message never reached Bergen in time and so the Norwegians went to CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 9

the aid of their Dutch allies. It was only after an emergency conference was held between the English admiral and the fort’s commander that the only war between Britain and Norway came to an end. Rather than walk back round the old quayside, a small ferry plies its way to and fro from beneath the castle walls over to the southern quays. Old streets of colourful timber-clad houses lead to one of the finest aquariums in Europe. Every marine situation is there from the underwater harbour-side scene, to a penguin pool where you can watch the underwater sporting antics of these active birds through reinforced glass.

the city, in the case of Mt Ulriken, by a cable car, or Fløyen with its funicular railway almost from the quayside in the Bryggen. From its top station, there is almost an unlimited range of activities available, from strolling along the forest paths, to mountain biking, to canoeing, or for the ultra-brave, a zip wire park. For those wanting something less energetic there is a café overlooking the panoramic view of Bergen, its harbour and the outlying islands. Taking in the view on one of our trips to Norway, we realised that we were being chatted to by someone with

Training ship Statsraad Lehmkuhl

Composer Edvard Grieg’s home Troldhaugen stands on a southern headland away from the aquarium. Now a public museum to this great composer, concerts are held there and at Troldsalen in the city centre throughout the summer. The house is at Hop overlooking a beautiful forest glade, the perfect setting for his work. Grieg is probably the most well-known of a trio of composers who did much to put Bergen on the cultural map. Ole Bull and Harald Sæverud although not so well known internationally, became famous in their own way. Continuing round the aquarium headland, a side inlet with a series of sheltered anchorages is where the ferries to Denmark rest before returning south. Nearby is the quayside where Hurtigruten ferries turn every day before journeying back to Kirkenes on the Russian border in the far north. Carrying out a service which has run for well over a hundred years, the Hurtigruten (it means ‘fast route’), acts as a lifeline for the scores of places, large and small, that dot the frequently inaccessible length of Norway’s coast. We stayed at the Clarion Admiral Hotel on the southern side of the main harbour, directly opposite Bryggen and it couldn’t have been handier. Small local ferries plied from a stone’s throw from the hotel door. Had we the time we could have opted for one of the little boats making its way daily into the furthest reaches of the long, narrow, deep-watered arms of the sea. Each cuts its way into central Norway’s mountain fastness, from the Sognafjord in the north, to the Hardanger to the south; some of the ferry routes have road and rail links back to Bergen. Flåm at the end of its narrow fjord oﬀ the Sognafjord, is linked to the main Oslo/Bergen main line, by a side line that climbs steeply from the sea to join the main line at Myrdal. Here the contrast between mountain and coast couldn’t be more pronounced; sunshine and fruit trees line the valley bottom around Flåm, while up at Myrdal, winter lingers well into what passes for summertime elsewhere. Bergen being built around seven hills has unlimited resources for hiking and more leisured outdoor activities. Two are linked to

10 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

Bergen from Mount Fløyen

a marked Geordie accent. Homing in on who it was, I asked if he could be Jimmy Nail, the actor who appeared in Auf Wiedersehen Pet. ‘Could be’ was the answer – apparently he had just finished filming back home and was spending a few days in Bergen. He told us he liked the place, and like many Tynesiders, came over from time to time, but he found the beer not only rather expensive, but a bit weak compared with Newcastle Brown. Amazing who you bump into on a short trip to foreign parts.

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The Lost Houses

of Derbyshire by Maxwell Craven

Wash drawing of the Gatehouse range c. 1834. [Private collection]

Langley Hall Meynell Langley

The history of Langley, just north west of Derby on the road to Ashbourne, is complex to say the least. As a consequence, it is not without its fair share of lost houses, about one of which we have sufﬁcient information to be able to say something about it.

he manor of Langley originally consisted of a knight’s fee and, by 1108 had been granted by the Norman grandee Ralph FitzHubert to one Robert de Meynell, whose father was the Domesday tenant of FitzHubert in the NE of the county. Until the senior male line of the de Meynell’s failed in 1227, and the family’s extensive holdings were divided amongst the husbands of his four daughters, the family continued to hold it entire. At that date however, some family holdings survived the division of land, and a half knight’s fee at Langley was bestowed upon the next brother of the grandfather of the four heiresses, who was called William. Another half knight’s fee at Langley – half the original manor – was bestowed upon William’s brother-in-law, Nicholas son of Ralph of Langley, otherwise Nicholas FitzRalph.

The division was basically made using the line of the ancient Derby to Ashbourne road as a boundary. Nicholas FitzRalph had everything to the south, including Nether Burrows, Langley Common and Langley Green. He also founded the church of St. Michael on his half, for it does not appear in the Domesday Book and is mostly of that date and later. Hence his portion was distinguished by the name of Kirk Langley or Church Langley, the use of the Norse derived term ‘kirk’ suggesting a substantial Danish-speaking population in the area since the fall of eastern Mercia to the Vikings in 874. A new settlement grew up around this church. Meanwhile, William de Meynell retained everything to the north and east of the road, including the original village, which henceforth became

Heradlic glass said to have been recovered from the old hall. [Private collection] CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 21

The Lost Houses

of Derbyshire by Maxwell Craven Meynell Langley. It was situated just to the north and east of the present Langley Hall, and was investigated archaeologically in 1980. William de Meynell, seems to have adopted the place as his chief seat and built a house for his son mentions a ‘capital mansion’ there in a charter drawn up a few years later. Probably he founded a chapel to serve the village, too, and this appears to have become absorbed by the house, as happened at Markeaton Hall in the Medieval period. Once the village had become de-populated, it eventually became the hall’s domestic chapel. William Senior’s map, 1640, detail showing Langley Hall. [Trustees of the Chatsworth Settlement]

Further evidence for old Meynell Langley Hall dates from 1555 when it is recorded as

having a deer park. William Senior’s map of 1640, shows a house, more or less on a similar site to the present hall, orientated NE-SW and set around most of a large courtyard. Now, the chances are that it had once been twice that size by the early 14th century, for the Meynells had become very important figures, two of them (both called Sir Hugo) serving as stewards to the Ferrers Earls of Derby, all holding important administrative posts and two fighting doughtily in Edward III’s campaigns in France. They even briefly inherited a barony from the de la Wardes of Newhall. They were certainly of equivalent standing to the FitzHerberts of Norbury, a fragment of whose ancient house survives. We know

Elevation of the Gatehouse range as rebuilt. [Private collection]

Elevation of the SE range, drawn before 1757. [Private collection] 22 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

from research carried out in 2010 that originally Norbury Hall was set around two courtyards which was par for the course with important knightly families in our area then. Therefore, the inference must be that the hall at Meynell Langley was similarly laid out. Meanwhile, the FitzNicholas family at Kirk Langley were followed by the Twyfords, and the Twyfords by the Poles, and until the latter family inherited the place, no one amongst these families with their chief seats elsewhere, needed a house at Langley. The Poles however, did build a house, beside the church, the site of which is marked today by some uneven lumps in the field, called Pool Close, the mutated name deriving from that of the family.

William Meynell of Willington, and were clearly keen to see the family return to their ancestral acres, despite the passage of 272 years! It eventually came to Godfrey, son of Revd. Thomas Meynell, another of the brothers whom the Duke of Newcastle had made rector of Langley, but his heirs were once again all female and he re-divided the estate amongst their posterity, so that it all left the family yet again. Langley Hall eventually descended to a family from Derby called Peach, whilst three other parts came to the Wards of Little Chester, whose heiress married Dr. John Meynell, of a

branch of the family long settled at Derby. His son Godfrey, at the beginning of the nineteenth century, moved back to Meynell Langley but, having no hall on his portion he rebuilt the rectory his kinsman the Revd. Thomas had built in the 17th century as the present Meynell Langley Hall. A plan of the original hall at Meynell Langley was drawn in 1757 when the NE wing was partly demolished – essentially the chapel measuring 28 by 40 feet. Its oak panelling, with its lavish display of heraldry was, we are told saved. The remainder consisted of the great hall, by

We have seen that in 1227, the senior line of the de Meynells ended with heiresses, leaving a younger branch with a diminished holding – mainly half of Langley and other places. The same thing happened in 1397. Ralph de Meynell died in 1389 leaving four daughters, who all married. His mother, Joan, held the estate until her death in 1397, when she divided it up, mostly between the daughters’ husbands, but part was bequeathed to her brother-in-law Sir William Meynell, whose posterity moved to Willington and Yeaveley. Meynell Langley went to Reginald Dethick of Dethick, whose only daughter married Ralph Bassett of Blore, in Staﬀordshire. It remained with their family until 1602, and the Bassetts it was who must have reined in the size of the house. They also rebuilt the chapel in Henry VIII’s reign, the date being confirmed by a pair of Nuremberg jettons found beneath the floor when it was demolished in 1757. From the Bassetts (who had as well bought Kirk Langley from the last of the Poles in the 1590s, re-uniting the manorial estate) it all passed to Charles I’s most loyal supporter, William Cavendish, 1st Duke of Newcastle, who allowed various relations to live in the hall, and who commissioned the 1640 map. By this time the village had vanished entirely – probably through a combination of the catastrophic climate change event of the 1340s, the consequent Black Death and the creation of the park, though by the 1640s the park too was mainly divided up for agricultural purposes. In the end, the Duke was financially ruined by the Civil War, and was keen to sell. The buyer was Isaac Meynell, one of three brothers who made colossal fortunes in the City during and after the Civil War; all three were descendants of Sir

Meynell Langley Hall is a Regency country mansion house with extensive lawns surrounded by beautiful woodland and rural Derbyshire parkland, set on a rise in the land to the east of Kirk Langley, between Ashbourne and Derby. We are an independent wedding and reception venue. We don’t oﬀer packages! You simply hire the venue, and have the freedom to arrange your day as you choose.

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Meynell Langley Estates, Kirk Langley Village, Kirk Langley, Derbyshire DE6 4NT Tel: 01332 824815 meynell225@btinternet.com www.meynell-langley.co.uk Please note that Meynell Langley Hall is a private residence and visits are strictly by prior arrangement only. If you would like to visit please contact us by email to find out when our next viewing day will be.

CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 23

The Lost Houses

of Derbyshire by Maxwell Craven then divided up. The wing parallel to it, was substantial and late medieval, of brick with stone dressings, but the NE extremity was of timber framing, but by then stuccoed over. It sported a gigantic external chimney breast and included a first floor room called a solar, very similar to the surviving one at Norbury. These two parallel ranges were joined by a timber framed gatehouse range facing SW, but this appears to have been demolished along with the southernmost of the parallel ranges at some date between 1757 and about 1800 and replaced by a single storey replacement with Georgian windows and a classical arch giving access to the courtyard. Thus what was left for the Peach family to live

in was just the great hall range with its Norfolkstyle crow-stepped gable and the gatehouse range, forming an â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;-plan, with the hall farm to the NW, then as now. This was felt not to be at all satisfactory, so in 1834-1836, a new Langley Hall was built alongside and, once completed, the remainder of the old house was taken down. Fortunately, Godfrey Meynell, who had inherited much of the southern portion of Meynell Langley, to the SE, was a keen antiquary and an amateur architect to boot, so he undertook to make drawings and elevations of what then remained before it was all cleared away. If he had not done so, we would have precious little idea what this once magnificent

old house would have looked like. In all the Meynells managed to allow the breakup of their estates three times, two of those occasions aďŹ&#x20AC;ecting Langley, which is a unique record in itself. The fact that they managed to flourish over nearly three following centuries from the second division of their land, enabling them to buy it all back in 1669, is remarkable and quite rare in this country. That by judicious marriages they were enabled to re-inherit part of it back yet again in the 1780s is astounding. It certainly saved the connection, but unfortunately, failed to save the old Medieval Hall.

Elevation of the SW end gable, before 1834. [Private collection]

Plan of the hall as surviving to 1757. [M. Craven]

Norbury Hall from the SE, 30th May, 2015. [M. Craven] 24 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

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LOCAL BUSINESS

Holtams: Experience the difference!

ITH brand new kitchen and bedroom displays, the Holtams showroom, nestled in the idyllic village of Heage, offers everything from the ultimate contemporary, sleek and streamlined look to the traditional carpentry of a bespoke craftsman’s rustic masterpiece. Whether timeless traditional, contemporary or something in between, Holtams can craft a new bespoke kitchen or bedroom to suit every exacting taste and unique lifestyle. Holtams’ contemporary kitchens, for example, are the essence of minimalist style, offering clean lines, smooth surfaces and an overall sense of space and light. Whether high-gloss, solid timber or ultra-matt, the bespoke contemporary kitchens are designed to fit perfectly into a modern lifestyle. From the ultramodern to the chic and subtle, the one thing all of the contemporary kitchen collections have in common is their ability to maximise space and flow in a room.

28 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

Traditional kitchen designs have also remained consistently popular for good reason, and Holtams have on display a beautiful collection. Comforting and warm, nothing feels like home quite like a traditional kitchen. A framed timber kitchen is the epitome of traditional design and timeless sophistication, thanks to the wooden cabinetry available in either painted matt, or as exposed and treated timber. Bridging the gap between ultra-modern and traditional kitchens are the classicallystylish Shaker designs. Shaker kitchens use the best in modern manufacturing and cover a variety of materials and finishes – from gloss to woodgrain to painted, so there’s sure to be an option for every lifestyle and preferred look. Some of the kitchen and bedroom displays celebrate a harmonious fusion of tradition, classic and contemporary ideas, combining seamlessly the best attributes of each. Some models masquerade their modern technology behind traditional

hand-painted cabinetry. The expert blend of classic kitchen details, the modern twist of contemporary style and functionality and the pure aesthetics of traditional features can combine harmoniously to create a kitchen that is simply stunning. The Kitchen Stori collection, which is a prominent feature within the Holtams showroom, encapsulates the complete range of styles – modern, traditional, contemporary, classic and country. The airforce blue Jefferson model from Kitchen Stori, which sits proudly on display adds a touch of traditional luxury to the kitchen space. The design possibilities offered by the Jefferson solid ash door and the large number of accessories applicable to the range gives unlimited choice when it comes to creating a unique style. The stunning simplicity of the aubergine Aldana shaker style door from Kitchen Stori is accentuated by its narrow frame and internal and external curves, which provide a refined look and feel. This door is accompanied by

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Sliding doors have always been a host of contemporary accessories that practical…and Holtams make them expands design options and creates a sophisticated and stylish too - with a huge kitchen that meets all expectations. choice of panel options and the flexibility Offering a slight twist on the of a made-to-measure service. The benefits contemporary shaker, the Kensington of sliding door wardrobe systems from from Kitchen Stori features a sloped Volante are characterised by their spaceinternal profile on the door. Its innovative saving attributes, the ease of access they design combined with its PVC exterior afford and their sleek contemporary and woodgrain finish, allows a stunning styling, making them a highly practical kitchen to be created at a very affordable solution for the homes of today. price. Available in 27 paint colours, Holtams has attained the ranking of 5 the one displayed in the showroom Star MasterPartner® , which is the highest is a very impressive sage green. accolade given from NEFF, and is only For customers looking to make granted to showrooms of the highest quality, the ultimate contemporary style which are designed to inspire customers statement, the chic, true handleless and offer unrivalled choice and service. doors and drawer fronts of an Alchemy In basic terms, the level of expertise, kitchen certainly hit the mark. knowledge and customer With exceptionally service offered at the flawless finishes, a true handleless display creates “An extensive range Holtams showroom is second to none. The a high-end, stylish kitchen, of Neff appliances professionally-trained Neff which can be further experts are always on hand enhanced with underare also on display to offer advice, expertise cabinet dimmable lighting, from ovens to hobs, and in-depth knowledge. rose gold accessories, An extensive range finishes and touches and extractor hoods and of Neff appliances are a De Dietrich induction compact appliances.” also on display from hob. A range of state-ofovens to hobs, extractor the-art kitchen storage hoods and compact solutions and pull-outs appliances. There’s also a top of the make the kitchen space work especially range Neff Slide&Hide ® oven, as used hard. Unmistakeable as regards form on The Great British Bake Off, and the and function, the Le Mans intelligent revolutionary flex induction hob. corner unit solution offers efficiency The new kitchen must-have is a Quooker: and innovation with unprecedented the tap that immediately dispenses boiling levels of technical quality and motions water. Instant 100 degree boiling water is that are designed to captivate. available from a stand-alone tap as well as The bedroom collection from Kindred, from models that are ‘3-in-1’ (i.e. cold, hot Urbano and Colonial offers styles and boiling). These are supplied with a 3 that free the inner designer and offer litre tank and come in a variety of finishes endless possibilities. The modern look including polished chrome. It uniquely is inspired by European design and boils water in an air vacuum allowing contemporary metro cool, whilst the for huge saving in water and energy. distinctly-sophisticated, yet refined, A team of 4 professionally-trained traditional bedrooms combine functional and highly-experienced designers design with subtle neutral tones.

carefully create plans, which suit each customer’s individual style, taste and budget. Whether it’s an attractive kitchen at a budget price or an ultra-modern finish bedroom bursting with the latest technological advances, the designers have the perfect solution. The planning and design service is complimentary. A sensational offer is now available at Holtams, whereby any kitchen ordered and fitted by Christmas will have a Neff Slide&Hide ® oven available at just £99 against a normal retail value of £779 (terms and conditions apply). To see the newly-refurbished kitchen and bedroom showroom, please feel free to visit the showroom at Random Ridge, Pickard Lane, Heage, DE56 2BD. Alternatively, to speak to an expert for further details, call 01773 852683. For even further information or inspiration, visit www.holtams.co.uk. Opening hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm; Saturday 9am to 4pm; Closed on Sundays; Bank Holidays 10am to 4pm. CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 29

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Thimble Collecting by Maxwell Craven Pictured right is a nine carat gold example of a thimble by Henry Griffiths & Son with a Chester assay mark 1929.

himble is a word used for a small cap to protect the finger for use when sewing, and the name derives from Old English thyma and Old Norse thumall – the same root that gives up ‘thumb’ – and more specifically thymel a fingerstall. The root word really meant ‘swelling’ and words like tumour and thigh are also related. The great thing about collecting thimbles is that they are small and you thus need only a limited amount of space to house your collection, and even if you have quite a lot, you are still not going to have your house or flat totally dominated by them. In the main, too, they are generally highly aﬀordable – unless, that is, you decide to go in for either precious metal examples of antique or even ancient ones, for the use of thimbles goes back into antiquity. A bronze Roman example, a metal detectorist’s find,

was oﬀered for sale a few years ago for £25. Indeed, one of the most expensive thimbles ever sold was a silver gilt one bought by an American collector from a UK auction twenty years or so ago for £18,000. It had provenance, having said to have been given by Queen Elizabeth I to one of her court ladies. A very fine French ivory thimble (something that will soon be untradeable) decorated with scrimshaw ducks round the rim recently made £360. Another antique form is the Nuremberg thimble, like the same city’s famous jettons, were made, also in bronze, around 1530, right at the beginning of the modern thimble as we know it. A Nuremberg thimble sold recently for over £250, but more commonly for £30-50, like the one illustrated which has the added bonus of a maker’s mark on the rim – a flower. By the later 18th century our newly fledged

porcelain industry was producing thimbles notably Royal Worcester, occasionally with signed painted decoration. It was during the Victorian era that people thimble collecting became popular; practitioners are today called Digitabulists. Purely decorative thimbles, made for collectors or souvenir hunters come in many decorative styles including filigree work, scenes, plant and animal depictions, cherubs, borders, fleur-de-lys, sewingrelated themes and, like the antique examples quoted above, come in a variety of diﬀerent materials. My wife bought a cloissonné enamel one recently, probably Chinese and modelled as a Fo Dog or a tiger (it looks at first glance like an owl, but on closer inspection has fangs) for £1 and absolutely loves it. Working thimbles - these are the sparsely decorated thimbles that were made

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Kansas City souvenir of a long-forgotten conference: £110.

Pair of Edwardian silver thimbles in boxes of issue, £60 each.

Nuremberg thimble, also brass, £30.

specifically to be used. Although these might not be as fancy, they carry a lot of value of their own nowadays and are highly collectable. Commemoratives, souvenirs, advertising thimbles and many other varieties can be had for very little money. At fairs, for instance, some dealers have a box of them at a fixed standard price, and sorting through them can produce all sorts of attractive ones. Some modern ones can also be pricey. I recently spotted a silver one assayed in Chester

Carole’s Fo-Dog thimble, £1.

Aluminium Coca-Cola advertisement, 1950s.

Roman bronze thimble, £25. 32 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

in 1962, in its original presentation box, very desirable to the collector of more decorative types, but at £175 I thought it over-priced; £20-30 would have been our estimate at Bamfords. More aﬀordable were a pair of Edwardian silver thimbles in their original boxes priced more reasonably at £60 each. Both were decorated in good repoussé flower patterns and one had a decorative frieze, too. A box spotted recently at a local fair of silver thimbles was oﬀering each item at £10. A

A selection of thimbles on a dealer’s stall good rummage armed with a loop to check the hallmarks might lead to a few little treasures that might show a slight profit, although the unit price at auction for a single silver thimble would be about £1.50 to £2, but they are always sold in groups unless particularly special. Another stall I came across recently had a splendid selection: a 1970s NASA commemorative, and a pewter example boxed by the same supplier (£4), several porcelain

ones, including a single Royal Crown Derby example (£1.50). Regarding the latter, a full set of 15 RCD ones with box shouldn’t set you back more than £50 and the firm issued several sequences of them. Many of those I saw were boxed, and there were others in brass, plastic, bakelite (sought after, and often £5-8) and so on, and all very reasonably priced. I also spotted a good embossed 9 carat gold thimble by Henry Griﬃths & Son, on sale at £90, although at auction, £30-40 might be more like it.

Silver thimble with Chester Mark 1962, £175.

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A shbourne

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shbourne has a long history of enjoyable events. Many people have worked hard to organise these events over the years and last year saw the formation of the Festive Committee to ensure that everything ran smoothly. Representatives from various town organisations formed a new and equal partnership in planning and organising the events. Of course the major event that many of us look forward to with excitement is Ashbourne Late Night Shopping. The main event will take place on Friday 7th December and as well as shops and cafes staying open late there will be entertainment for all the family. The Town Council says, ‘The Community Group consisting of representatives from Ashbourne Arts, Ashbourne Churches Together, Ashbourne Town Council and Ashbourne Traders Group are building on the foundations from last year to ensure that the event is a success again this year. The group are meeting monthly at rotating venues bringing different skills and fresh ideas to the table. For the event to be successful there is a lot of behind the scenes work that the public tend not to see and these are the skills that Ashbourne Town Council can bring to the group such as: Applying for use of the Market Place. Obtaining temporary events notice to allow for the playing of amplified music, road closures, first aid, waste management, signage, liaison with Derbyshire County Emergency Planning Team – on planning an event, public liability insurance, risk assessments. Financial Contribution. The Town Council invites local charities to attend the event and have a stall to promote and raise funds for their charities, the Council also

submit a blanket application to Derbyshire Dales District Council for a Street Trading License to allow this to take place. As in previous years Ashbourne Arts will be hosting a lantern procession. “It was many years ago that Ashbourne Arts first introduced lantern making and the Lantern Procession to Ashbourne. Although the arts team’s primary focus is the summer festival we just love making lanterns and get such a thrill from seeing people of all ages taking part in the procession. With over 100 lanterns already in store and two free Saturday workshops, on 27th October and 1st December, this year’s procession on 7th December promises to be bigger and better than ever”. Of course festive activities are the heart of the Ashbourne community and Ashbourne is pleased to support the Lantern Procession on the Friday evening again this year and invite everyone to join us as we then gather in the Market Place. We seek that the people of Ashbourne have a great weekend. The Ashbourne Traders Group is encouraging all retailers to stay open for late night shopping to offer visitors maximum opportunity to visit their shops. The group said, ‘We are pleased to have gathered a group of traders passionate about working together and boosting our town’s opportunities to benefit us all. We now Visit Optimum and see the great variety of watches, jewellery and gifts we have to help with all your Christmas shopping, from Secret Santa presents to that extra special gift. We believe customer service is what really counts and love to help you find just what you’re looking for. We’re open 7 days a week, so come and explore! Optimum 18a Market Place, Ashbourne, DE6 1ES 01335 347554

40 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

have regular meetings that any trades person is welcome to join, the more the merrier! Please contact emmanuelle@sallymontague.co.uk or chloeoptimumgifts@gmail.com for more details. Many people over the years have put in a huge amount of hard work to help arrange these celebrations. This year it has yet again been a pleasure to work together with the Town Council, Churches, together with Ashbourne Arts and play an active part in helping to organise the activities over the festive season which we all love. Late Night Shopping is not just about retailers trying to make extra money, it is about us embracing the community spirit and giving the people of our town a night to enjoy everything we have to offer. We are hoping that, as much as possible, people will choose to buy their gifts from local independent businesses rather than the big superstores, as by doing this your money will go directly into the local economy. Ashbourne is a town full of outstanding independent shops offering a whole range of desirable items for the festive period. We look forward to welcoming you!’ We are also pleased to announce the return of Free Parking in Derbyshire Dales District Council car parks from 2:00 pm throughout December.

Henry’s, based in Brailsford, nr Ashbourne, specialises in manufacture and retail of top quality pine and reclaimed timber furniture. Henry’s, are able to manufacture furniture to a customer’s specific requirements, from bookcases to tables to complete hand made kitchens. Visit their new showroom at Bullocks Lane, Brailsford, Derbyshire DE6 3DA Tel: 01335 361132

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CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 41

A shbourne

Saracens Yard, Arts Crafts & Gifts Great choice of decorations now in. Pop in and see us to view our extensive selection. Specialising in beautiful arts, crafts and gifts by local artists, featuring hand-crafted unique jewellery and accessories. Why not join them on Friday 9th November for their preview night with mulled wine and mince pies â&#x20AC;&#x201C; open 11am until 8pm. In Saracens Yard, Brailsford on the main A52 Derby to Ashbourne.

Avanti Fine Jewellers of Ashbourne have an extensive range of jewellery and watches to suit all price ranges, pre-owned luxury watches, a full repair and restoration service on jewellery and watches, along with a bespoke jewellery design and manufacturing service.

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lery, Bea u ti ful gi fts, je w el me h andbag s et c., in ti for Chri stma s!

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A shbourne

Co-ordinating a sale and a purchase So, you have found your dream home as well as someone to buy the property you currently own. Sale and purchase prices have been agreed through the estate agents. What are the next steps? You will need to find a conveyancing solicitor to guide you through the process. Your solicitor will deal with all of the legal issues involved in both the sale of your current property and the purchase of your new house. Alongside this, they will also be able to help to coordinate the transactions in the rest of the chain. It is a well-known fact that moving to a new house can be a stressful experience, which is often because, as a seller, you are completely dependent on your buyer as they are on their buyer. Even though you may have a time-scale in mind for your move and may wish to complete the process as quickly as possible, it is crucial to remain as flexible as possible avoiding, for example, booking a holiday which might fall in the middle of your move. Make sure that your mortgage offer is in place in good time and any additional purchase funds are readily available. Obtain quotes for your removals

Paul Sabin

and for buildings insurance and make provisional bookings so that everything is lined up for when the rest of the chain is ready. Where deadlines cannot be helped, such as children moving schools, aim to start the whole house moving process well in advance. In such circumstances, you may well wish to consider renting for a short time so that you are then in a good position to buy when you find the right property. To summarise, the advice is to put everything in place for your move so far as possible, but not to commit to anything until contracts have been exchanged, when you will have a definite date for your move. Flint Bishopâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team of conveyancing experts at our Ashbourne office strive to achieve your time-scales and expectations, whilst answering any concerns that you may have and keeping you fully informed at every stage.

Katie Johnson

The GIN GAF offers a spectacular selection of unique bottled Gins from all over the world. 306, Church St, Ashbourne, Derby DE6 1AE Tel: 01335 418703 44 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

The team consists of Paul Sabin, Sue Cunningham-Sawyer, Katie Hargreaves and Kimberley Treece. Partner and Head of the Ashbourne Office, Paul, specialises in all areas of property law including commercial property, agricultural property and residential conveyancing matters. Sue is a Licensed Conveyancer and has significant experience in all aspects of residential conveyancing as well as being highly experienced in leasehold, freehold, unregistered, land and new build matters. Residential Conveyancer, Katie Hargreaves, makes the complicated process of buying or selling a property as simple as possible and ensures that her clients fully understand every step of the procedure. The team is supported by Legal Secretary, Kimberley Treece, who maintains the smooth running of the department. We pride ourselves on being a friendly and approachable team and we are always happy to help when the need arises. If you require property advice or help with any other legal matter that you may be faced with, please call us on 01335 342 208 or visit flintbishop.co.uk.

Sue Cunningham-Sawyer

Kimberly Treece

Did you ever want to own a pair of Jimmy Choo shoes or a Mulberry handbag but without paying the high street price, well now you can at the Second Chance dress agency Ashbourne, second hand but loved designer clothes shoes and accessories. But be warned, once they have gone they have gone! Stock changes daily. Second Hand Dress agency 19 Church Street, Ashbourne. Tel: 01335 343025

Trusted legal advice for you and your business With offices in Ashbourne and Derby, Flint Bishop is able to help you with a wide range of personal and business legal requirements including Conveyancing; Commercial & Agricultural Property; Wills, Probate, Inheritance Tax & Trusts; Family & Matrimonial; Construction

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For regular legal updates, follow us on social media or visit our website: CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 45

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The

Majestic Oak at a Glance

rees similar in appearance to the Oak ďŹ rst appear in the fossil records, the Cenozoic era; the age of mammals who ďŹ lled the gap left by the extinction of the dinosaurs.

Main picture: an oak apple and insert: an oak gall.

Man has used the oak for many and varied purposes. It has been used for building homes (the Tudors built oak framed houses and barns) and making barrels and casks. Its bark has been used for tanning leather. Oak galls were crushed and mixed with water and iron solution to produce an indelible ink to write on vellum. Being indelible it was much prized for writing legal documents; the Magna Carta and the American Declaration of Independence were signed with such ink. In 1651 an oak tree hid a young Prince Charles, the future King Charles II following the battle of Worcester and in turn gave its name to many pubs.

Purple Emperor

Female Oak Bush Cricket

Fungus on oak

48 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

The legendary Major Oak in Sherwood Forest is reputed to have been the haunt and hiding place of Robin and his Merry Men. The oak's acorns have been roasted and ground to make acorn coffee and its bark has been used to make a decoction for medicinal purposes. In the New Forest, commoners have the rights of Pannage, this means they are allowed to turn loose their pigs to gorge on the fallen acorns in the Autumn.

Bracket Fungus on oak

Countries have waged war on the strength of the oak; its timber being used to build Massive Warships like Henry VIII's Mary Rose. England prided herself in her Navy and oaks were specifically chosen from the forests to provide the correctly shaped timbers needed to produce these big warships. The River Hamble had the necessary shelter and resources to facilitate the building of these ships between the 14th and 19th Centuries. A naval dockyard was then established at Portsmouth where building then took place, repairs being carried out on the Hamble. At Bucklers Hard on the River Beaulieu in the New Forest you can see for yourself the 18th Century ship building village where the ships were constructed for Nelson's Fleet at Trafalgar. Having considered how we have made use of the oak for our own purposes, we should now focus our attention to what it gives back to the environment it lives in. Over 350 species of insect feed on the oak, and 30 lichens can be found on it. This makes it one of our most important trees. Little wasps lay their eggs on the developing buds and acorns causing a reaction from the tree. This is how oak apples and marble galls form. Inside these growths little wasp grubs munch merrily away safe from predators. One of our native butterflies , the Purple Hairstreak feeds on oak in its larval stage. If you want to see the adult insect though you will need a strong neck and a pair of binoculars. During July the adults fly around the tops of the trees, seldom venturing lower down. They feast on aphid dew secreted on the leaves by these sap suckers. They can occasionally be seen in the evenings coming down to flowers if there is not a lot of dew to be had. One of our biggest and most spectacular butterflies, the Purple Emperor feeds on Sallow, but having hatched tends to fly high up around the oak canopy looking for a mate and sparring with rivals. Fermyn Woods in Northamptonshire is a good place to see this magnificent insect. Another quite impressive insect to make use of the oak is the Oak Bush Cricket which roams around the tree looking for a tasty snack. Many moth larvae feed on oak providing food for the local bird population, as the tree gets older its broken branches provide nesting sites for all manner of birds. Woodpeckers and Nuthatches will hollow out rotten trunks and branches to provide a home for their chicks. Spiders and other insects live in the crevices and behind the peeling bark, in turn also providing a living larder for the birds to feed to their young. Even in death the tree provides for its surroundings, beetles lay their eggs in fissures in the bark and their grubs make short work of the dead wood, recycling it to provide nutrients for the next generation of trees. The Stag Beetle is the largest and most well known of these â&#x20AC;&#x153;recyclersâ&#x20AC;?. Fungi also help to break down the dying trees, returning nutrients to the soil. The majestic oak tree has not only hidden Royalty, vagabonds and thieves, it also hides its own secret little world that we may be privileged to see and experience if we only have a little time and patience.

CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 49

Gardening with Mark Smith

November 2018

The gardening article in Country Images will have a hint of Italian from now on, I’ve just accepted a position where I will be visiting Italy every month. So I will be bringing back a Horticultural flavour of Italy. For many years I have been buying plants from Italy and they have some amazing nurseries there so I will include those in future issues. It’s that time of year again… I have already recommended to people that if you have newly planted plants give a good thick layer of bark around the base of the plant, normally twice as thick as you would for weed control. This acts as a good insulator against very hard frosts that kill very young roots; the frost penetrates the bark but no further. If you have a greenhouse try to keep as many tender plants as possible in there and making sure the greenhouse is well insulated with bubble wrap. Make sure your terracotta pots are raised off the floor with pot feet or simply garden stones, this will make sure there is air flow under the base of the pot and help against it cracking in cold weather.

Clematis Wisley Cream

Allotment or Vegetable Patch:

In the Greenhouse:

General Garden Maintenance:

• If not done so already, wrap grease bands around the trunks of fruit trees to protect them from winter moths, I tend to leave grease or bands on all year round to stop any crawling pests. • Many varieties of apples and pears will still be cropping. • Now is the time to plant soft fruit including gooseberries, raspberries, strawberries, blackcurrants and blackberries. • Or you could take hardwood cuttings from your soft fruit instead of buying plants. • Spread a thick layer of homemade compost or farmyard manure to dig into your soil over winter. • Make notes about how well the grow-yourown did this year, this will help when planning vegetable and fruit crops for next year.

• Insulate the greenhouse with bubble polythene, the large bubble wrap is the best. • Replace any old glass or polycarbonate with new panels. • Bring peaches and nectarines in pots inside the greenhouse for winter protection. Dispose of any old leaves around the base of the pot and remove any leaves still left on the tree. • Dispose of any capillary matting if it has seen better days and buy fresh – old matting can harbour disease. • Check heaters are working efficiently and buy fuel. • Check garden centres or nurseries to see if they have any special deals on greenhouses or cold frames etc. Buy one now ready for early next year.

• Continue to spike lawns and brush sand and sulphate of iron into the holes to improve drainage, greens up and kills and prevents moss in lawns. Apply an autumn lawn food. • Remember to check bonfires carefully before lighting to make sure there are no sleeping hedgehogs underneath. • Wrap outside taps with insulation material to prevent them freezing. • Order bare roses, and prepare the soil well with homemade compost or composted manure before planting. • Collect and compost any fallen autumn leaves. • Take hard wood cuttings from cornus, ribes, salix and roses – please contact me for advice about certain plants and shrubs. • Now is the time to move shrubs, including conifers and evergreens, that have outgrown

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their position. Make sure your take as much root ball as possible and try to do this on a damp to wet day. A terrific trio to try in the garden this month are: Callicarpa bodinieri ‘Profusion’ (Beauty Berry) A pricey plant in garden centres but a great shrub to have in the garden with masses of violet small berries around about now followed by rich autumn leaf colours. Will get to a height of about 3 metres but is very useful as a container plant. It needs a well drained, slightly acid soil in sun or part shade.

Mahonia ‘Soft Caress’ : A brand new variety. It gives the same bright yellow flowers as a traditional mahonia but has beautiful, fine cut, soft leaves that are nonthorny. Great in a shady position and has very compact growth that is also ideal for a container. I believe this variety will become extremely popular.

pruning so very low maintenance. Still Looking great at the moment and worth a try: Abelia grandiflora ‘Kaleidoscope’ Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’

Coprosma ‘Evening Glow’ Coprosma ‘Fireburst’ I should also mention ornamental conifers and winter (bud burst) heathers, both of which are extremely hardy, have interesting shapes and give much needed colour throughout the winter and spring. Remember to listen out for me doing my next gardening feature on BBC Radio Derby with Mr Andy Twigge

Clematis ‘Wisley Cream’ (previous page) Evergreen clematis that starts to produce cream flowers now until February, will happily grow on a north facing wall and doesn’t require any

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52 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

If you need to get in touch about your gardening problems Email me at garden.guru@virginmedia.com

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Celebrity Interview Walk Diary Gallery Food & Drink

H Steve Orme interviews

Graham Gouldman

e’s the only constant member of 10cc, acclaimed as one of the most inventive and influential bands in the history of popular music. But Graham Gouldman isn’t just a singer and bass player: before he was 21 he’d written million sellers for the Yardbirds, the Hollies and Herman’s Hermits; he’s had success performing with other acts; and he’s a slick producer as well.

CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 57

his year Graham has done two tours with Ringo Starr’s band as well as taking 10cc around the country. Next year looks just as busy for the 72-year-old who will be performing in foreign climes including Russia and Japan. On their current tour 10cc will be playing an already sold-out gig at Buxton Opera House, a venue where they have performed several times before. Graham remembers the last time, a couple of years ago, very well. “Our PA broke down, so we did some numbers acoustically. It went down really well and it made for a special night. We did offer a refund on the tickets but hardly anyone took that up because they enjoyed the fact that we made the most of the situation and tried to give the audience what they wanted.”Twelve months ago Graham was back in Buxton, this time at the Pavilion Arts Centre. He performed his acoustic show Heart Full of Songs which he will be taking to Germany and Holland in 2019. “It’s an aside to 10cc really,” says Graham who comes across as intelligent, thoughtful and eventempered.“We play smaller audiences but it’s something I really enjoy because I get to do songs that I wouldn’t be doing in a 10cc show, songs I wrote in the ‘60s, songs I wrote with Andrew Gold, film music and solo stuff as well.”

Graham also wrote Bus Stop for the Hollies, No Milk Today for Herman’s Hermits and Pamela, Pamela for Wayne Fontana.

Graham teamed up with the late American singer Andrew Gold from 1984 to 1990. As the group Wax their song Bridge To Your Heart reached number 12 in the UK singles chart. For some people, though, Graham will always be known as a quarter of 10cc. He says the current band is “as near as you’re going to get to hearing the perfect 10cc”. Why? “You’ve got one original member who sang some of the songs, all the 10cc records were co-produced by me, and two of the members (guitarist Rick Fenn and drummer Paul Burgess) have been with the band from the very early days on record and on the road.” Graham Gouldman was born on 10 May 1946 near Salford in Lancashire. He began playing in bands when he was a teenager and one of them, the Mockingbirds, signed a recording contract. But the Columbia label rejected Graham’s first single, For Your Love – which became a major hit for the Yardbirds. Graham also wrote Bus Stop for the Hollies, No Milk Today for Herman’s Hermits and Pamela, Pamela for Wayne Fontana. In 1969 Graham and his friend, former Mindbender Eric Stewart, became financial partners in a recording venture, Strawberry Studios, at Stockport. Two other friends, Kevin Godley and Lol Creme, joined them as session musicians. Three years later pop mogul Jonathan King signed the quartet and gave them the name 10cc. Since then they’ve sold more than 30 million albums

58 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

worldwide. Three of their songs reached number one in the charts, I’m Not In Love, Dreadlock Holiday and Rubber Bullets. I’m Not In Love has been played more than five million times on American radio stations. No wonder Graham says that’s the one song the band can’t afford to leave out of their set wherever they perform. “It’s a special song, there’s no doubt about it. I’ve done different versions of it – I do it in the acoustic show so it’s a more stripped-down arrangement. The song has a certain something about it that’s almost mystical. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime song.” Did the band feel it was special when they were recording it? “Well, we knew it was good. The production was really very important. It matched the mood of the song, the melody and the words perfectly. So I always credit the production as much as the song.” Graham who was inducted into the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame in 2014 feels that the timeless quality of the songs has been the main reason why 10cc has lasted for more than 45 years. “It’s almost like there are three generations coming to see us: there’s the older generation and some of the 40-somethings are bringing their kids with them. That’s great to see. I think they want their kids to see musicians who can play well without the use of backing

tracks or auto-tuners or anything else like that.” Graham treats the music business seriously although he confesses that he’s not working but enjoying himself a lot of the time.

“Every day I say thank you to whatever made this happen. I can’t do anything else really – I’m not very good at anything else although I’m not a bad cook. I get to do what I want to do and live the life I want to live.

He tries to limit tour dates to no more than four in a row so that he doesn’t stretch his voice too much: “Within 10cc we’ve got two singers. I share the singing with someone else so there’s less of a strain.

“There are three things that I do in my work life: writing, recording and performing. Making music with other people is one of the great joys of life. I’ll continue to do that for as long as I can.”

“The other thing to be said is that we don’t lead a rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle. As soon as we get back to the hotel it’s straight to bed. There’s no carousing or anything like that. We’re all conscious of looking after ourselves. Like any job you’ve got to keep fit to do it. And being on the road in a band is exactly the same as that.

Fans of 10cc will be delighted to know that Graham has no intention of hanging up his guitar yet. “It’s one thing to have a gift but you need a certain amount of drive to realise your ambition. I want to continue to write and record good songs. I think it’s in me to keep striving to do good stuff.”

“Being on stage for a couple of hours is like all your workdays concentrated into those two hours. You come off stage and you might feel tired but you feel exhilarated at the same time and it’s a lovely feeling.

Anyone disappointed at not getting a ticket for the Buxton gig shouldn’t despair: 10cc have just announced a 2019 tour that includes the Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham on 2 March. But don’t hang about – there’s sure to be people clamouring for tickets to see a band who have achieved creative, commercial and critical success.

“If you look after yourself, being on the road doesn’t have to be as unhealthy as it sounds. But you have to discipline yourself and not have the full English breakfast every morning!”

Fans of 10cc will be delighted to know that Graham has no intention of hanging up his guitar yet.

Like many musicians and artists I’ve spoken to over the past few years, Graham feels fortunate to be doing a job he absolutely loves. CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 59

Walking with the Aristocracy

Bolsover Castle to Scarsdale Hall This, the latest of my walks between grand houses visits mansions that could not be more different; built several centuries apart, one from the Jacobean period and the other Georgian. They are only a little over two miles apart, but while one is well known, the other suffers greatly from not being on the ‘tourist trail’. The walk starts at Bolsover Castle, a Jacobean pleasure retreat for the Cavendish family. It is built on the site of a Norman Keep and sits above an escarpment overlooking miles of Derbyshire countryside. This fairy-tale mansion was designed for entertainment and pleasure; three times King Charles I and Queen Henrietta Maria were entertained here at great cost with revels and expensive dining. One of the visits cost Sir William Cavendish £15,000, an enormous sum for those days. By backing the wrong cause during the Civil War he had to flee to the Continent, where it is said, he was forced to subsidise the future and impecunious Charles II with the loan of a million pounds, which he never got back.

garden where couples could spoon, hidden away from prying eyes in cosy arbours. In the centre of the garden a fountain is surrounded by water-spouting gargoyles and little boys doing what little boys do naturally. The whole piece is topped by a lady who looks as though she is just stepping out of the bath.

of Wirksworth, stormed the place and seized the estate, only releasing it after £18,000 had been paid. The building that stands today is the shell of a sumptuous house built by the 4th Earl of Scarsdale, then in later times the estate was owned by the Arkwright family, bought by Richard Arkwright Jnr in 1824.

Sutton Scarsdale Hall is on the far side of the M1. A little over two miles away, the imposing shell of a Georgian mansion was built around 1724-29 on the site of a Saxon fortress. Its immensely columned exterior is in marked contrast to the sad exterior.

Arkwright interest in Sutton Scarsdale didn’t last a century and in 1919, the building was sold at auction to a group of Chesterfield businessmen. Their only interest was in asset-stripping, gutting the place of all the exquisite panelling and gilded plasterwork. The whole lot was sold to William Randolph Hearst, the American newspaper baron, for his Xanadu palace. If rumour is correct, then all this magnificence still lies in unopened boxes, mouldering in a San Francisco warehouse. Not long after the asset sale, the rest of the building set on fire – cause unknown -, leaving a roofless shell open to the elements. Currently English Heritage is embarking urgent repairs to stabilise what is left.

Owned throughout the Middle Ages by the Leke family who had been knighted by Henry VIII, the original house fell into disrepair following Leke’s support of the monarch in the Civil War. By that time the family had gone up in the world, first becoming Barons, then Earls. Leke hoped that by strengthening the house, it would withstand a siege, but Parliamentarian troops under the command of Sir John Gell

Useful Information A moderate 7mile (11km) walk with one up and down climb of 328 feet (100m, along side roads, field paths with stiles on boundaries (sections can be muddy in places). Recommended map: 1:25,000 scale Ordnance Survey Explorer: Chesterfield & Alfreton. Refreshments at the pub next to Bolsover Castle. Public transport: Stagecoach buses (Routes 82 & 83) run half hourly from Chesterfield‘s Stephenson Place (Stop K2), to Bolsover town centre. Car Parking: next to Bolsover Castle – free if visiting the castle.

The castle is in three parts, the Riding School to the left of the main entrance, it is used now by disabled riders and special events, but in its day it was where Sir William Cavendish demonstrated his equestrian skills. To the right of the Riding School is the roofless Long Gallery; this is where guests such as King Charles would stay. The final part of the castle, and its best preserved is what is called the Little Castle. Decorated with mildly erotic paintings, it overlooks a walled

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• The walk starts and finishes outside Bolsover Castle, so have sufficient time in hand for a visit either before or after the walk. • With your back to the castle, follow the road round to your right, then right again along Castle Lane. The road curves down and around the hillside. • When the road turns sharp left, back on itself, follow the footpath sign, going right along a tree-lined tarmac path. • At a four-way junction of paths, turn left and follow the path downhill past frontages of terraced houses. There is a good view of Bolsover Castle, above and to your right. • Go left on reaching Villas Road and follow it past houses on New Bolsover Estate, continuing left at the far corner. New Bolsover was built to house the miners of Bolsover Colliery. Unique in style and layout, the estate is built in the shape of a three-sided square with an access road in the middle. A narrow-gauge railway running round the outside of the estate carried waggons loaded with the miners’ free coal. The matching Co-op and pub buildings at the entrance to the estate are disused, but along with the rest of the houses, they are currently being restored. • At the top right hand corner of the estate, turn right on to Chapel Lane. Turn right where it joins Carr Vale Road. Follow this until it joins Water Lane. • Turn right and walk as far as Carr Flash, an attractive fish pond on restored land. • Cross the abandoned railway track (Stockley Trail), and join a footpath that crosses a footbridge over the River Doe Lea. • Using stiles and gates in their boundaries, cross three fields in order to reach the track leading to Lodge Farm. • Go left on to the farm track, alongside the M1motorway. • Turn right to cross the M1 and follow the road for about 250 yards until it turns sharp left. • Walk ahead at the bend, on to a footpath becoming a farm track leading to the outskirts of Sutton Scarsdale village. Access to the path is rather overgrown where it leaves the road, but the way beyond is clearer. If you are uncomfortable about this, then walk ahead along the road, following it until it reaches Sutton Scarsdale village. Turn right (left if coming from the field path), along the signposted lane leading to the hall. The sadly imposing ruins of Sutton Scarsdale Hall are all that is left following its asset-stripping in 1919 and a subsequent fire. Spend time exploring the outer walls of this English Heritage property

The Walk with Rambler

Bolsover Castle to Scarsdale Hall

before starting back towards Bolsover. • Go to your right away from the hall and make your way back to the track on the village outskirts. Turn right for a couple of hundred yards, then left, on to a path crossing two large fields. Where the path forks in the first field, take the right and go downhill towards the motorway. • Turn left beside the latter and walk up to a farm lane. • Turn right and go under the M1, then forwards past Burton Barn. • Roughly after 400 yards go to the left with the footpath and then bear right where it reaches an old railway line. Here the woodland has been designated as a nature reserve in memory of Peter Fidler, a little known explorer of the Canadian wilderness. Follow the abandoned line and walk through the reserve, past a pond, over a stream with a sewage works on your

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right. • Where the nature reserve path reaches Stockley Trail (which follows another old railway), turn left as far as a metal gate. • Go through the gate and immediately turn right to follow a narrow path through undergrowth. • Ignoring a gravel-surfaced path diverging left, continue forwards for another 80 yards to reach a rough path going left. Follow this and out on to the sports ground. • Beyond the sports field turn left on to Villas Road and follow it to the far corner of the New Bolsover estate. • Turn right along the outward path, and with a small field on your left, climb beside the terraced houses. • Continue upwards, bearing right and then left to reach Castle Lane leading back to the castle.

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Diary Of Events

diary@imagespublishing.co.uk Royal Centre Nottingham & Concert Hall 0115 989 5555 www.trch.co.uk OCTOBER 28 Caro Emerald 30 Vienna Tonkünstler Orchestra 30 to Nov 3 Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat NOVEMBER 1 Grayson Perry: Them & Us 2 Michael Bolton 3 The Magic Lantern Backstage Tour 4 Nottingham Harmonic Choir: War Requiem and Lark Ascending 7 An Evening with King Crimson 7-9 Opera North: Tosca 8-10 Opera North: The Merry Widow 10 Saxon 11 Sunday Morning Piano Series: Rachel Cheung 12 Rick Astley 13-17 Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake 14 Spoken Word and Talks - Levison Wood Journeys through the Badlands and Beyond 15 Jools Holland 16 Songs from the end of World War One 16 Sinfonia Viva 16 After Hours: Sinfonia Viva and Aoife Miskelly 17-18 Catrin Finch and Seckou Keita 18 Foyer Events - Losing Her Voice 18 Classical Music - Ex Cathedra 19 Bradley Wiggins: An Evening With 19 The Third Stage - Henri Herbert 20 Sing-a-Long-a-Grease 22 Fastlove 23 Live at Lunch: 55+ Song Writing23 BBC Symphony Orchestra 23 Joe Lycett 25 The King is Back 26-28 Murder For Two 26 Love Actually: Live in Concert 27 Live On Mars: A Tribute to David Bowie 28 Deacon Blue 29 Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain With Bells On 30 Sensational 60’s Experience Ross Noble El Hablador DECEMBER 2 Classical Music Nottingham Harmonic 3 Katie Melua Buxton Opera House & PavilionArts Centre. 01298 72190 www.buxtonoperahouse.org OCTOBER 22-27 The Case of the Frightened Lady by Edgar Wallace 28 Beethoven & Cherubini NOVEMBER 1-4 David Walliams - Awful Auntie 3 The Buxton Lions Firework Display and Hog Roast Buxton Cricket Ground 3-8 A Star Is Born 5 The Guardians 6 Speakers from the Edge Steve Peat - Bikes & Beers 62 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

7 Ralph McTell 9 War Above The Trenches 9 English Touring Opera -Radamisto 10-11 Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again! 10 English Touring Opera Triple Bill: Dido & Aeneas, Jonas, I Will Not Speak 11 Jazz - Tame Valley Stompers 11 Chapel-en-le-Frith Male Voice Choir A Century of Song With special guest Lesley Garrett 12 10cc 13 Ruby Wax, the Monk and the Neuroscientist - How To Be Human 14 Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust Mary Queen of Scots - From Buxton to Fotheringay 1584-7 14 Rich Hall’s Hoedown 15 Show of Hands . Joint Venture 16 Roy Orbison & The Traveling Wilburys Experience 17 Steve Steinman’s Meat Loaf Story 18 The Royal Ballet Encore, La Bayadère 18 Sweeney Entertainments. ABBA Forever 19 An Even Wilder Night Out with Chris Packham and Paul Goldstein 20 Roy Wood Rock & Roll Band at Christmas 21 Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain with Bells On 22 The Chicago Blues Brothers Motown Mission 23 Richard Van Emden 1918: The Final Year of the Great War 23 Peter Moore - Endeavour 23 CMP Live on Mars A Tribute to David Bowie 23 Alan Johnson - In My Life 24 Sarah Ward & Kate Griffin - Women getting away with murder 24 Adrian Tinniswood - Behind The Throne 24 Russian State Ballet and Opera House Giselle 24 Nick Hewer. My Alphabet: A Life from A to Z 25 The Simon and Garfunkel Story 25 Handel’s Messiah 26 The Sensational 60’s Experience DECEMBER 1-5 Juliet, Naked 1 The Brighouse & Rastrick Band 2 Hazel O’Connor & Breaking Glass Film, Q&A and Live Performance 6 The Houghton Weavers 7 Royal Northern College of Music Louis Perera & Fruzsina Szücs 8-13 Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald Derby Live. Box Office 01332 255800 www.derbylive.co.uk OCTOBER 29-Nov 3 Designasaur Workshops 31-Nov 3 Good Toes Naughty Toes NOVEMBER 1-3 Good Toes Naughty Toes 1-3 Designasaur Workshops 1-8 Derby Arena Tour - Here’s your chance to take a tour around Derby Arena 14-17 Far From The Madding Crowd Fourblokes Theatre Company are delighted

to be bringing yet another classic to Derby’s Guildhall 17-18 Derby 80s Retro Arcade Weekender Buy Tickets 18 Ventoux is the most fearsome mountain encountered on the Tour de France. 22-24 Pump Boys and Dinettes It’s the 1950s on Highway 57 in Grand Ole Opry country! 24 Jason Manford - He’s back! It’s been a busy few years for Jason since his last smash-hit stand up show but fans of his Absolute Radio show will know… 28 G4 Live 29-Dec 2 Cinderella The most famous pantomime of them all! In the classic ‘rags to riches’ story, Cinderella lives a life of poverty, bullied by her sisters. 30th to Feb 23 ‘The Sitcom Experience’ – Fawlty Towers Dinner Show Derby Theatre Box Office 01332 59 39 39 www.derbytheatre.co.uk OCTOBER 28 Ross Noble: El Hablador 28 The Missing Light NOVEMBER 1-3 The Snail and the Whale 2 Neil Oliver: The Story of the British Isles in 100 Places 2 A Super Happy Story (About Feeling Super Sad) An hilarious cabaret musical about depression, that explains, sings, and throws glitter about. How it’s OK not to be OK. 6-10 Guys and Dolls - Good Companions Stage Society 12-17 Rain Man 17 Declaration 23-24 Student Scratch Night 30 to Jan 5th Hansel and Gretel Nottingham Playhouse 0115 941 9419 www.nottinghamplayhouse.co.uk OCTOBER 28 to Nov 2 Family Fest 2018 Family Friendly: We bring in the light for a fun-filled week of family activities focused on festivals of light, fire and celebration! NOVEMBER 2-24 The Madness of George III - An Olivier award-winning cast, starring Mark Gatiss Adrian Scarborough and Debra Gillett Palace Theatre Mansfield www.mansfield.gov.uk/palacetheatre NOVEMBER 2 Whitney - Queen of the Night 3 The ELO Experience 6-10 Monty Python’s Spamalot the Musical 11 The Drifters 13 You Win Again. Music of the Bee Gees 18 Beauty and The Beast - Ballet 20-21 Legally Blond the Musical - New Youth Theatre DECEMBER 1-6 Snow White

A Woman of No Importance Niamh Mourton who is directing the next Marlowe Players’ production at Darley Abbey thinks she is getting a reputation for choosing plays with strong parts for women. In March 2016 she was at the helm of Sean O’Casey’s Juno and the Paycock, a tragicomedy set in 1922 during the Irish Civil War. Now she is directing Oscar Wilde’s A Woman of No Importance which satirises upper-class English society at the end of the 19th century.

Wilde explores the double standards that existed in the Victorian era when men were forgiven for their indiscretions whereas women were condemned for their moral failings. “Being Irish I love a bit of Oscar Wilde,” says Niamh who was raised just outside Dublin. She feels that the play’s theme of gender inequality resonates strongly today. “I think it’s really interesting when you see the strength of a lot of the female characters even though they’re living in a suppressed society. They have opinions even though they’re not really allowed to

have them.” A Woman of No Importance involves young gentleman Gerald Arbuthnot being offered the post of secretary to cynical, dissolute Lord Illingworth. Gerald’s mother refuses to allow Gerald to continue in his service, and Gerald has to choose between his wronged mother and a glittering career. There are also some good parts for men: “I think Lord Illingworth is one of the best male parts out there. He’s really complex. Some of the things Mr Kevil the politician says is so relevant to modern-day politics. And then you’ve got Sir John Pontefract who I think is absolutely hilarious,” says Niamh. She has chosen an experienced cast of 13 for the play. “They’re fantastic. They got into their characters probably more quickly than I’ve seen with any other cast I’ve worked with. “I just love the energy, enthusiasm and ideas that everyone’s coming with and I think that’s really helped. Nothing’s been laborious and we’re having a lot of fun doing it.” The Marlowe Players will present A Woman of No Importance at Darley Abbey Village Hall from Tuesday until Saturday, November 20 to 24. For tickets call 07961 607372 or go to marlowe-players.co.uk

“Far From the Madding Crowd”. Derby Guildhall Theatre 14 - 17 Nov Fourblokes Theatre Company are delighted to be bringing yet another classic to Derby’s Guildhall - Thomas Hardy’s “Far From the Madding Crowd”. Mark Healy’s brilliant stage adaption is both a colourful celebration of English rural life and a thrilling romance - delivering passion, melodrama, earthy humour and a gripping plot. It’s the story of Bathsheba Everdene who, after inheriting her uncle’s farm, finds herself a mistress in a man’s world. This production tells the story vividly using ensemble staging and live folk music.

Buxton Opera House announced as East Midlands Regional Winner for the Most Welcoming Theatre Award 2018. Over 56,000 votes were cast by members of the public to choose their Most Welcoming Theatre for 2018. Buxton Opera House previously held the title for 2015 and 2016 and is thrilled that the wonderful work of the staff and volunteers have been recognised once again for all their hard work. New Chair Professor Judy Simons was particularly proud of staff, saying “What a great tribute to our marvellous box office and front of house team! Special thanks must go as well to our wonderful volunteers who take such pride in welcoming visitors to this beautiful theatre.” Paul Kerryson, Chief Executive of Buxton Opera House also added “Buxton Opera House has always prided itself in providing the very best customer service experience, and this nomination is a tribute to our outstanding staff and volunteers who make every visit to our stunning Opera House a memorable occasion for our audiences and visiting artists. We also want to thank all our customers who took the time to vote for us and help make the theatre such a great venue”

Watch out! David Walliams’ Awful Auntie is coming to Buxton Opera House next month!

Citizens of Buxton are advised to watch out for a very large owl as well as the most awful Auntie in history. They will be up against a brave little girl and her friend in the world premiere production of David Walliams’ Awful Auntie at Buxton Opera House from 1 to 4 November. This funny and exciting new show is from Birmingham Stage Company, the award-winning producers who brought David Walliams’ Gangsta Granny to Buxton Opera House in 2016. David Walliams says: “The Birmingham Stage Company’s Gangsta Granny is truly brilliant, so I’m hugely excited that they’re now bringing Awful Auntie to the stage. It promises to be a thrilling show and a total hoot - Wagner the owl and I can’t wait to see it!

Be quick for this one! ALFIE BOE Royal Concert Hall Nottingham Wednesday 10 April 2019 7.30pm One of the world’s greatest classical singers Alfie Boe brings it back to the UK, announcing a 2019 tour in what is becoming another landmark year for the much loved tenor. Last month, Alfie revealed his return to the solo spotlight with the release of his vibrant and instantly classic album As Time Goes By. “I’m excited to get back on the road, especially with a new record that I’m so proud of. These songs are at their best when performed live!” says Alfie, he adds, “We’ll be enjoying some of great songs from my previous records, but I more than anything want to bring back to life an era when British audiences discovered a brand new kind of American music, full of energy, optimism and romance. I’d like to transport people to a time in their lives, a moment or even a style. I hope you all enjoy being transported there as much as I do!”. £35 - £65 plus £125 and £175 VIP packages available www.trch.co.uk 0115 989 5555 CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 63

Diary Of Events diary@imagespublishing.co.uk Birdwatching for Beginners walks at Carsington Water. Despite the heat there are still many birds, now with young, around the water and a good opportunity to let our experts point out the juveniles searching for food. The next Beginners walk, which is held on the first Sunday of EVERY month, is on Sunday November 4th Book by contacting Carsington or for more information, 01629 540696 or just drop in to reception. If you don’t want to miss the birds binoculars are essential!! “Happy Birding.” Heanor Floral Art Group . Monday November 19th demonstration by Gill Mills entitled ‘Sparkle’. Time : 7 o’clock . Venue Wilmot Street Welfare Centre .Wilmot Street Heanor . Visitors £5 everyone welcome . For further details contact 01332 -880179 . Little Chester Local History Group Thursday November 15th at 7.30pm in Chester Green Community Centre, Old Chester Road, Derby, Ann Featherstone will be ringmaster for the night in ,’Fools and Horses, The Victorian Circus’. Admission non-members £2. For further information Tel. 01332 559615. Allestree Flower Group Tuesday 20th November 2018 Flower Demonstration by National Demonstrator Diane Fair. Time: 6.30 pm for 7.30 pm Venue: Robert Ludlum Theatre, Duffield Road, Derby. Admission: £12.00 For further details telephone 01332 558540 Derby Chamber Music Society Friday 9th November at 7.30pm at the Multi-Faith Centre, University of Derby, Kedleston Road, Derby, DE22 1GB A concert by Alexandra Vaduva (piano) Scarlatti: Sonatas K380 in E and K9 in D minor Janáček: On an Overgrown Path - Book 1 Bartok: Suite Op.14 Enescu: Choral and Carillon nocturne from Suite Op.18 Beethoven: Sonata in C sharp minor, Op.27 No.2 “Moonlight” Tickets £15 and £14 (concessions) For further information ring 01332 830585 or visit www.derbychambermusic.or Derby A Cappella Rehearsals every Tuesday evening at Chester Green Community Centre, City Road, DE1 3SA . 7:30 until 10:00 p.m. and are now working on a selection of songs. If you would like us to sing at your function in 2019, or would like to come along and sing with us contact:- Gordon. 01332 518594 or gordonsavage@yahoo.co.uk www.derbyacappella.co.uk and the www.facebook.com/derbyacappella/ Darley Abbey Historical Group Friday 16 November Richard Stone – Medieval Luttrell Psalter. All meetings start at 7.30pm and are held in Darley Abbey Village Hall, Abbey Yard 64 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

off New Road, Darley Abbey, DE22 1DS There is a charge of £1 for members of the Historical Group and £3 for visitors. For further information contact Maria Gibson on 01332 552837 To find out more visit https://darleyabbeyhistoricalgroup.wordpress. com/ Spondon Historical Society ‘Spondon Historical Society will meet on November 12th in Spondon Village Hall, Sitwell Street Spondon DE21 7FG at 7.30pm. Stephen Flinders will give a talk entitled ‘ ‘Owd Ilson’. Everyone is welcome, come and find out what Ilkeston used to be like and how it has changed. Members £2.50, Visitors £4.00.’ Derby French Circle Venue: St Edmund’s Church Hall, Kings Croft, Allestree, Derby DE22 2FN. •2 November, The many administrative layersCommune; Department and Regions in France, yesterday and today. A talk by Paul Smith. •16 November. Social Evening. Jill Cartmeli presenting (in English) three regions of France with degustation. Talks, social and cultural events. Please come and join us for conversation and games in French. All levels of French spoken. Students £3 & Visitors £7 per meeting. Season Ticket £40. www.derbyfrenchcircle.org.uk Derbyshire Dales Woodcraft Club 3rd. Nov. 2018 - this is a hands-on meeting when members will be working on woodturning, woodcarving, pyrography, marquetry and scroll saw work. Additionally, members Tony Reindorp and Terry Cambridge will be conducting a marquetry workshop for anyone interested. Come along if you want to give it a go! First visit is FREE Music at Duffield Zelkova Quartet Friday 23 November 2018 at 7.30pm MAIN HALL, Ecclesbourne School, Duffield, Derbyshire, DE56 4GS PROGRAMME Haydn Quartet Op. 64 No. 2 in B minor Bartok Quartet No. 3 Beethoven Quartet Op. 59 No. 2 in E minor Winners of the 2017 St Martin’s Chamber Music Competition, the Manchester based Zelkova Quartet has established a reputation as one of the UK’s up-and coming string quartets, praised for performing ‘with a remarkable zeal and intensity’ (Edinburgh Fringe, Herald Scotland, 2015). The St Martin’s competition awards an outstanding young ensemble with performance opportunities in the prestigious London venue of St Martin-in-the-Fields and around the UK with voluntary music groups in partnership with Making Music. Ticket prices: Adult £15, Concession £14, Student £7

Derby & District National Trust Members’ Group. We are a friendly and vibrant group run by members, whose aim is to promote the National Trust and local properties. We

organise a variety of enjoyable social events throughout the year. Why not join us for one of our evening meetings: Tuesday 20th November “Pantomime” Helen Chambers visits us in full costume to tell us the history of the pantomime and its origins. Landau Forte College, Fox Street, Derby at 7.30pm. Contact the Membership Secretary on 01332 703512 or email derby.members@nationaltrust.org. uk Group Members £2.50 / visitors £5.00 Non members very welcome. Folk And Acoustic Music November 4 “War Horse” Songman Bob Fox In Concert. 4 - 6PM. Genesis Centre, Marquee Suite, King Street, Alfreton November 30th

A Evening with John Tams and Barry Coope. Chesterfield Library Theatre, New Beetwell Street, S40 1QN. Derbyshire’s most popular duo makes a welcome return to one of their favourite venues. Winners of the BBC Radio 2 Folk Award for “Best Duo”. Guaranteed a great night in their own unique style. Tickets £14.50, concessions £13.50, from Ticket Hotline 01773 853428 TV Singing Star Hits Broadway For Sight Support Derbyshire! A Derbyshire firefighter who shot to fame as a singer on prime time TV is performing at Broadway Church in Derby in aid of a local sight loss charity. Andy Quinn was revealed as the Unexpected Star on Michael McIntyre’s Big Show on BBC One with his performance of Bring Him Home from the musical Les Miserables. With over 25 years’ experience as a singer, he has gone from strength to strength, appearing in front of 20,000 people at the Darley Park Concert this summer. On Saturday 24th November, he will sing at Broadway Baptist Church in Derby to raise money for Sight Support Derbyshire, which helps blind and partially-sighted adults and children face the everyday challenges of living with sight loss. The evening starts at 7.30pm Tickets cost £8 and are available from Sight Support Derbyshire by calling 01332 292262 during office hours (9am to 5pm, Monday to Thursday). They are also available online at www.ticketsource.co.uk/ sightsupportderbyshire (booking fee applies). Tea, coffee and cake will be available.

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EUROPEAN COACHING BELGIUM BRUGES CHRISTMAS MARKET. . . . . . . . . . 02-05 Dec (BB) £326 HOLLAND TRAMS, BOASTS & BULBFIELDS . . . . . . . . 18-22 Apr (HB) £477

DAY EXCURSIONS EARLY BOOKINGS ADVISABLE

Admission included*

Adult / OAP / Child

SIMPLY CHRISTMAS THE CRAFTY CHRISTMAS SHOW*

SAT 03 NOV

CHESTER CHRISTMAS MARKET

SAT 17 NOV

£26 £22

HARROGATE KNITTING & STITCHING SHOW*

SAT 24 NOV

£33 / £33 / £28

HARROGATE TOWN ONLY

SAT 24 NOV

£22

HAREWOOD HOUSE AT CHRISTMAS*

SAT 01 DEC

£34

SKIPTON CHRISTMAS MARKET

SUN 09 DEC

£24

AIR HOLIDAYS JERSEY FROM EAST MIDLANDS . . . . . . . . . . VARIOUS DATES FROM £475

XMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON, SAT 17TH NOV, 4PM-8PM, WITH PEAK FM’S CRAIG BAILEY! FESTIVE MARKET, UNIQUE FESTIVE GIFTS! FREE LIVE ENTERTAINMENT, SAT & SUN FROM 10AM! VISIT SANTA IN HIS MAGICAL GROTTO! FREE PARKING AT THE VILLAGE Chatsworth Road, Rowsley DE4 2JE www.peakshoppingvillage.com Follow us:

GUERNSEY FROM EAST MIDLANDS . . . . . . . VARIOUS DATES FROM £469

THE 2019 BROCHURE WILL BE AVAILABLE IN NOVEMBER Telephone 01629 582826/584192 K.V & G.L SLACK LTD, THE TRAVEL CENTRE, UPPER LUMSDALE, MATLOCK, DE4 5LB

Website: www.slackscoaches.co.uk Email: enquiries@slackscoaches.co.uk

CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 65

Images Gallery Bluebird Fine art at Mercia Marina Willington are looking forward to having the fabulous Leigh Lambert in attendance at the gallery on 24th November for a book signing. Leigh was born and raised in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, where he resided for the first twenty years of his life. Leigh describes himself as mostly self-taught, having received no formal art qualifications or training. Lambert is an accomplished artist across a range of media, most commonly working in oils on board. His use of colour is minimal, optimistically applying splashes only to the figures that play amidst the otherwise monochromatic landscapes, capturing the joy and vitality of youth. Lambert relocated to Warwickshire with his family in 1996, where he focused on the development of his technique. It was on leaving Newcastle that he began to appreciate the nature of his upbringing; what he had once seen as a concrete jungle now seeming strangely beautiful. Taking inspiration from his childhood, Lambert’s pieces have a strong sense of nostalgia, evoking fond memories of a youth that many can relate to. Working from his garden studio, the artist has achieved great success in recent years. In 2014 he was shortlisted as Best Up and Coming Artist in the prestigious Fine Art Trade Guild Awards, and consequently his works are hugely sought-after. Limited editions often sell out within weeks, and waiting lists are in place for those hoping to acquire an original painting. Bluebird will also be exhibiting a collection of Leigh’s work including limited editions, original paintings and original sketches.

Eddie Hallam still fascinated by all forms of wildlife... Eddie Hallam has always been totally absorbed and fascinated by all forms of wildlife. He likes nothing better than sketching them in some wild and remote location. From the sketches he then works them into life-size sculptures before they are cast in bronze, using a method that was discovered 5500 years ago. A method still used for many products today. Eddie has travelled widely to study and sketch wildlife but British species are still his favourite subjects. He now has over 70 bronze sculptures in his portfolio - ranging from mighty gannets to tiny wrens. You are welcome to visit his gallery which is in Riber Village near Matlock. His annual exhibition will be held from Saturday 17th November to Sunday 2nd December. There will be talks and demonstrations throughout.

LEIGH LAMBERT BOOK SIGNING Saturday 24th Nov 1-3pm Come along and meet Leigh at Bluebird Fine Art and view the fabulous collection of his work

Mercia Marina, Findern Lane, Willington, DE65 6DW Open: Tuesday-Saturday 10am -5pm Sunday 10.30am -4.30pm Monday Closed. T: 01283 204753 info@bluebirdfineart.co.uk www.bluebirdfineart.co.uk

66 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

Work also available from: Craig Davison, Caroline Shotton, Paul James, John Wilson, Nic Jolly, Paul Oz, Peter Smith, Stuart McAlpine-Miller, Simon Claridge, Alex Echo, Jeﬀ Rowland, Ronnie Wood & Bob Dylan

RICHARD WHITTLESTONE wildlife gallery

Richard Whittlestone holds his annual Winter Exhibition from November 17th to December 9th at his gallery on the Chatsworth estate. Expect to see many new original paintings limited edition prints, greetings cards and the 2019 calendar. “I have painted a number of large compositions for this exhibition”, says Richard. “They all portray our wonderful native wildlife of course, not for me the big game of Africa, I much prefer the drift of Fallow Deer across the Park or the bright copper of a cock pheasant in the morning sun”. “To paint well there has to be a true understanding of subject and I have lived and loved wildlife the whole of my life”. Richard began painting aged five, sold his first work at thirteen and turned fully professional at 24. “I never had a proper job, I just kept painting the animals and birds I loved and let it build with me, I have customers all over the world now but also patrons who have been with me since the mid 1980’s and that’s quite special”. All of Richard’s pictures have a small fly hidden somewhere in the composition but it can take a keen eye to spot it. “I now provide magnifying glasses for visitors to the gallery to help aid detection” Richard confesses, “but as my eyes get older, it’s me who uses them most!”.

WINTER EXHIBITION Sat 17th November – Sun 9th December Featuring over 25 exquisite new original paintings, plus new limited edition prints, cards and calendar Broomes Barns, Pilsley, Derbyshire, DE45 1PF Tel: 01246 582720

richardwhittlestone.co.uk

Well worth a visit, the gallery is open every day from 10am to 5pm. wwwrichardwhittlestone.co.uk

WILDLIFE SCULPTURE EXHIBITION By EDDIE HALLAM

‘A breathtaking range of life-size bronzes from mighty gannets to tiny wrens’

There is still time to commission a bespoke watercolour of your pet from Norma Gent, working from good quality photographs. A selection of black and white mugs decorated with Norma’s sketches of local scenes and dogs are also available. Norma Gent , The Studio, No 2 the Galleries, New Lane, Alfreton.

Norma Gent

Sat 17th November to Sun 2nd December 2018 10.30am – 5pm Daily Riber Art Gallery, Greenways Farm, Riber, Matlock, Derbyshire DE4 5JU

Derbyshire Artist ◆

Pets, Portraits, Scenes, Still Life, Executive Caricatures, Victorian Life.

SPECIAL DAY WORKSHOP Saturday 13th October 2018

WATERCOLOUR CLASSES

Tuesday mornings and evenings & every Thursday 9am - 10.45am St Thomas’s Community Centre Somercotes Framing Now Available

The Studio, No 2 The Galleries, New Lane, Alfreton.

01773 836907

T: 01629 583108 or 07714 418174 www.wildlifesculptures.co.uk Talks and sculpture demonstrations daily CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 67

The Freedom Of Flying

light aircraft flying over Derbyshire gives you an unobstructed grandstand view of the fabulous natural environment in which we live. Experience the joy and excitement of flying, soaring above the beautiful Derbyshire countryside. Take a bird’s eye view of your favourite landmarks – maybe it’s Carsington Water Reservoir, Dovedale, Froggatt Edge, Chatsworth House, Ladybower Dams or your own home area. Taking hold of the flying controls, you can really experience the freedom of flying.

Derby Aero Club offers a wide range of flying services including tuition for the Private Pilots Licence. Flying from its home base at Derby Airfield, Egginton, the club caters for all ages. Recently a number of our younger students have achieved their first solo flight at the youngest legal age of 16. Derby Airfield is also the home of the Comet Racer restoration project. A team of volunteers are working hard restoring Comet Racer G-ACSP that was originally flown by Amy Johnson and husband Jim Mollison in 1934, in the air race from England to Australia. Why not come along to the airfield on a fine day and sit with a cup of tea, watching the aeroplanes come and go, or purchase a ‘Trial Lesson’ as a gift for someone special or even for yourself ? A trial flying lesson makes an ideal present, gift vouchers are available from the Derby Aero Club.

Antiques Open 9am-3.30pm Vintage & Collectors Fair Sunday 18th Nov Belper Leisure Centre

John O’Gaunts Way, Belper DE56 0DA

Guildhall fairs are thrilled to be the new hosts of this popular fair with up to 55 traders of quirky, original, affordable antiques, vintage and collectables! Join us for a trip down memory lane, where we literally have something for all tastes & budgets *free parking* café* Entry £2 For bookings & enquiries call Guildhall Fairs: 07583 410862 See our other events at: www.guildhallantiquefairs.co.uk

Country

2019 Calendar Proceeds in aid of

A collection of Country Images stunning front covers

£3.00

Available now

£3.99

from each sale will go to Derbyshire Air Ambulance.

Postage extra*

Buy online or call 01773 830344 www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk Country

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk 01773 830344

68 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

In aid of

* Postage £1.25

Music

in the Old Brewery, Little Eaton F

ounded in 1983, Bass Bags is a Morgan family owned and operated business located in Derbyshire. Bass Bags was started by double bassist and teacher Tony Morgan to make double bass bags. Hence the company name “Bass Bags“. Today Bass Bags has diversified somewhat and is run by Tony’s son David Morgan with his mother Caroline Morgan. 1983, the Start. Their range of double bass bags consisted of three models, Standard, Super, and Waterproof. They proved to be very popular and, after all these years, some are still in use today. The range of double bass bags, cases, and gig bags soon expanded as they added gig bags for brass and woodwind instruments to their range. Over the years they also developed new cutting-edge designs of gig bags for various instruments.

1990s In the 1990s a musical instrument hire service was added. This was their first service orientated operation, as up until now they had purely supplied products for sale to the trade and retailers. Tony, as a double bass and cello teacher, identified a need for affordable but properly set up student string instruments. He started off supplying just his pupils with their luthier setup student cellos and basses. However, word of student string instruments and their quality soon spread and the instrument hire operation has consistently grown. As people have experienced the difference of a properly setup instrument, this has created a strong demand for the sale of their luthier set up instruments. Since the 90s they have created a website, adding a shop section selling instruments, musical instrument accessories, and gig bags. New products are added online every week and their “keep it in stock” ethos sets their store apart from others.

supplying professional quality instruments on hire to visiting musicians, for performances in London’s West End, at Royal parties, on cruise ships and in concert halls throughout the UK. The Present day. Their musical instrument hire operation continues to grow in size every year as word spreads about its unique service. New products are added to their website, expanding our violin, cello and double bass shop. Bass Bags have recently acquired new premises in Little Eaton, Derbyshire to give more space to display instruments and provide a state of the art workshop for repairs. Bass Bags remain a family-run business to this day, giving customers the benefit of their unique knowledge. On 29th September 2017, their specialist orchestral strings website Strings2Go.com went live, with over 2800 types of orchestral strings for Violin, Viola, Cello and Double Bass for sale. Bass Bags Ltd The Old Brewery, Duffield Road Little Eaton, Derbyshire DE21 5DS Phone: 01332 840391 Email: support@bassbags.co.uk

Musical Instrument Hire & Sales

2000s In 2013 Bass Bags began actively marketing their stage and choir riser hire service which had previously only served customers who were “in the know”. Now they supply and construct stages throughout the UK for the BBC and other TV companies in locations such as Dunsfold Aerodrome and choir risers on location in churches for BBC Songs of Praise. In 2015 professional cello and double bass hire was added to their services;

JK Music School Professional tuition in piano, keyboard, guitar, singing, drums, brass and woodwind

Beginners welcome All ages welcome ‘It’s never too late to bring music into your life’ Now relocated to:- 101A Sitwell St, Spondon, Derby DE21 7AH

Tel: 01332 200149

jkmusicschool@hotmail.com | jkmusicschool.com

Here at Bass Bags we have high quality violins, cellos and double basses. All our instruments are set up by our luthiers and are available for hire or sale. Long and short term hire is available for beginners to professionals. We stock a large range of strings and accessories for violin, viola, cello and double bass. Call us or visit our website for details.

Bass Bags Ltd The Old Brewery, Dufﬁeld Road, Little Eaton, Derbyshire DE21 5DS Tel: 01332 840391 support@bassbags.co.uk www.bassbags.co.uk CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 69

Dining at th e

Hope & Anchor Standing proudly on the market place in the centre of Wirksworth is The Hope and Anchor, a grade two listed 17th century stone building. Closed in 2016 but now under new management and with around £100,000 spent on refurbishment, along with a new chef, The Hope and Anchor is now open for business. On their website they proudly proclaim that they are, “A good pub with real pub food”. Our visit, along with two long standing friends one Friday evening in mid July was a great opportunity to put that claim to the test.

ccupying a prominent position in Wirksworth it was easy to let your mind slip back to the days in 1306 when the town was granted market status and would be jammed with colourful stalls and people plying their trades many of which are now lost. Over the years, with wealth generated by lead mining and stone quarrying, this market town came to be graced by some of the most lovely, historic, stone buildings.

But now to our dining experience. We were welcomed by General Manager Jack, who showed us to our table in the large restaurant area, the rear of which is elevated. The late evening sun poured through the windows as we sat at a rustic table with plenty of space around us, it was so pleasant not to be squeezed in elbow to elbow with other diners. The décor here is contemporary with lovely muted shades, the walls have been partially clad with wood of various colours some featuring the imprint appropriately of an anchor. There are many nice rustic touches whilst the old building still retains many original features, which is quite fitting as it’s Rustic Inns who took over this pub in November 2017 and have worked tirelessly to put together a dining and drinking experience to suit current trends. Our waitress for the evening was Jersey who explained how much she enjoyed the food that the new chef was producing. Three of us ordered starters while one was saving herself for pudding! “It’s worth the wait” said Jersey. My starter was tomato bruschetta which consisted of three slices of rustic bread, tomato, chilli topped with torn mozzarella. A firm favourite of mine, not too overpowering and very clean tasting, a cracking start. Mike devoured his house pate infused with thyme, garlic and mushrooms, it was smooth and spread with ease on to the rustic bread. Generous triangles of salted butter and a homemade chutney accompanied it. Jane chose the battered prawns, dipped and fried in a very light tempura batter and served over 70 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

a fresh salad, the pot of sweet chilli and lime dipping sauce perfectly added that touch of heat and sweetness. The farmers pie of the day was minced beef and onion which was encased in thin short crust pastry, and I chose the double cooked rustic chips. The pie was lovely and moist and was served with a boat of gravy too which was a bonus, the ‘skin on chips’ were very chunky and the buttered greens not over cooked. Mike’s ale battered cod was served on a wooden board and was huge, even for Mike who has a healthy appetite. Lockwoods mushy peas and sea salted double cooked rustic chips were served with this and a pot of homemade tartare sauce and wedge of lemon completed the dish. His determination to finish was testimony to how enjoyable it was. Julie tried the vegetarian curry which was quite hot and had a good variety of vegetables, her only comment was that she maybe missed a naan bread to go with it. Finally, Jane ordered the homemade lasagne, a slight twist on the usual with smoked bacon and red wine and tomato sauce added to the beef. This made for a very rich dish, but with a beautiful flavour, and the side salad was the

freshest I’ve had anywhere. As predicted Mike and I passed on puddings, but Jane and Julie went for and enjoyed a lovely light and fresh raspberry mousse and a baked lemony cheesecake, both homemade and highly recommended. That really sums up the food here: locally sourced wherever possible, the chef has an eye for adding that extra something which lifts this good food just up another level. The presentation too is modern with delicate flower and micro leaf garnishes where appropriate. We had a great evening and there were many more dishes on the varied menu that we would have liked to try, and for those with not so large an appetite there is a ‘Lite bite’ menu available until 6pm. On Sundays there are traditional roasts alongside a reduced weekday menu. But, there’s still plenty there to tempt you at the Hope and Anchor. We all agreed that the Hope and Anchor is “A good pub, with real pub food, and a good collection of real ales. The music is pleasant and not too intruding, and they have a young group of staff that are friendly, relaxed and eager to please. It’s a great place to unwind at the end of the week.

HADDON HALL Bakewell, Derbyshire, DE45 1LA.

Christmas at Haddon Hall

1st to 23rd December, 10.30am to 4.00pm

SLEEPING BEAUTY AND OTHER TALES Musical recitals • Evening Candlelight Tours Gift Shop • Chapel • Museum • Exhibitions Delicious festive lunches Visit www.haddonhall.co.uk for more details info@haddonhall.co.uk | 01629812855

CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 71

taste derbyshire ‘Good afternoon Ms

Volley, your mission – should you choose to accept it – is to drive to a secret location in the lush Derbyshire countryside and liaise with an operative bearing an orange teapot. Should you injure yourself in a rush to get up the garden path to eat buttered scones; the organisation cannot be held responsible. This tape will self-destruct in ﬁve seconds…’ Permission to eat baked goods in a mysterious location? Now that’s what I call Mission Possible.

If there’s one thing I love more than tea and cakes; it’s a good mystery and putting them both together really tickles my fancy. Which is why I don’t want Rachael Hands – owner of Rachael’s secret tearoom – to tell me where she is located. “Can we meet in a car-park and you can blindfold me before you take me to your tea-room?” I ask when Rachael sensibly offers to send the address over on email. She has the patience to humour me; “Er, blindfold you? People may give us funny looks,” she says hesitantly before characteristically looking on the bright side.

“But it’d be a good marketing ploy; why not?” The simple fact is there are hundreds of quaint, country tea-rooms in Derbyshire but what gets my juices really flowing is the ‘secret’ part. The exact place where Racheal’s guests will end up slurping their Lapsang Souchong is revealed only on booking. “I take a stall every year at The Roundhouse Christmas Market in Derby and people are always fascinated by the idea of a ‘secret’ tearoom,” she smiles. “But their next question is invariably – where is it?”

07931 611485

Not that Rachael is falling for that one; ‘I do get people trying to get me to reveal my secret. The only thing I’ll say is it’s in Belper,” she explains. “I have to say this because guests sometimes imagine they might have to journey into the wilds of Scotland and they don’t want to drive too far. But most people love the idea of keeping the secret and – even if they’ve been – they won’t divulge it, even to their closest friends.” True to form, I will not reveal any clues about the location. The most I will tell you is that the quaint, vintage-inspired tea-room is situated in the home Rachael shares with husband Matt and

yummy@rachaelssecrettearoom.co.uk www.rachaelssecrettearoom.co.uk

72 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

Christmas Gift Vouchers Available

Rachael’s Secret Tea Room

that this cosy venue adds to the charm. “Like a lot of people, I’d always wanted to open a tea shop,” Rachael (45), explains when I ask her how the idea came about. “It may always have remained a pipe-dream but for an article in a woman’s magazine back in February 2012. I’d gone to have my hair done and I read this article about a lady called Lynn Hill who, at the time, was doing a secret tea room from her home in Leeds. I thought ‘I can do that’ and went straight home and emailed her.” Rachael was amazed to get a reply almost straight-away; “If I recall, she just told me to ‘go for it’,’ she laughs. “On a more practical level, she told me to start with family and friends just to see if it was something I really wanted to do and refine my ideas and recipes.” By September 2012, Rachael was ready to host her own event. “I do remember Matt asking if I’d be okay with strangers coming into the house. It wasn’t a worry as I love meeting people. I was more anxious about getting everything right,” she recalls.

“That’s why the idea of the ‘secret’ tea room appealed. It’s not that I am a fan of mysteries – I just thought it would lower the risk. If I set up a tea room on a high street and it didn’t work, it would be devastating. As it’s a ‘secret’ tea room I could try it for six months without anyone knowing.” Rachael had no reason to be so worried. She started off with a full-time job in local government with the idea of hosting her secret shin-digs once a month. The events were so popular, Rachael cut down to part-time work so she could do them twice a week. In May 2014, she was finally able to leave her job and concentrate on the tea-room full-time. “I think when people first come they are intrigued by the secret location and not getting the address until the last-minute adds to the excitement,” Rachael says when asked about this success. “When they arrive at my door, I can see them almost thinking ‘I didn’t think I’d be coming here’ as it’s our home. But they love it for being so comfortable and cosy. I get a lot of repeat business. One mum and daughter have been

around ten times. They’re always being asked about where the tea room is but they never tell as it would ruin the surprise. In fact, in six years – no one has ever revealed the location. They all buy into the fun of it.” The praise for her food is quite incredible for someone who admits that, while she was a keen cook, she hardly did any baking before launching her business. “It might be in the DNA. My parents used to own a bakery in Cromford until they sold it in 2006,” Rachael smiles. “I did help in the bakery and went on some of the delivery rounds and working in the shop but – other than having a few 5am starts – I had nothing to do with the bakery side.” Rachael turned to her favourite bakers, chefs and amateur bloggers to collate recipes and started experimenting to see which ones would work. She still devotes a lot of time to testing and tweaking recipes to delight her guests – making bubble gum flavoured macarons for instance and adapting according to the seasons. “I love Autumn as it’s a time for using fruits like CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 73

plums and berries in my recipes and I also make a very popular Dorset Apple cake but as soon as December arrives I stick up the tree, get the real fire going and bring out the cranberries,” she enthuses.

“I scour the vintage shops in places like Matlock and I look on the internet sites. I do have a lot of vintage china but my favourite is still my nan’s orange tea pot. If someone has a special occasion, they always get nan’s special tea pot.”

“People do expect the tea party staples like scones, short-breads and macarons but I like experimenting with my desserts. I’m always thinking how to do things a little differently. The nice thing about the tea room is that I can personalise the menu around people and what they love and their dietary requirements. If people ring up and ask me for a menu for a coeliac or to do an all vegan spread – I can do it.”

Over the years, Rachael has perfected the secret of making people feel at home.

In addition to being a magpie for cake recipes, Rachael has also become a not-so-secret collector of vintage pottery. “Everyone knows I love old pottery and I even get gifted items by my guests,” she smiles.

“When they arrive, I sit them down with a drink, like some homemade cordial, and make some introductions then I go and busy myself in the kitchen,” she says. “I’ve not had any deathly silences that have made me want to run out and get the conversation started – if it does go quiet it tends to be because they’re eating. More often than not, people arrive as strangers and go home having made lots of new friends. The appearance of a plate of triple chocolate flavoured macarons acts as a great icebreaker.”

Inevitably, as word about Rachael’s tea party prowess has spread – often down to personal recommendation and social media – people have asked her to cater outside her ‘secret’ HQ. “The outside events can be big – catering for a large event in Belper – or small like taking heartshaped scones to a holiday lodge with a hot tub,” she recalls. “As much as I love doing outside catering events, I have no desire to move the secret tearoom. I just enjoy the freedom of working from home. I can have mad weeks – I have done two hen parties in one day - but I’ll have a more relaxing week to make up for it. Making 100 personalised short-breads is nothing like the stress of working full-time. I love my job.”

Rachael smiles. “It might be a comfort zone thing but I’m very happy where I am – just don’t ask me for the address.” Contact 07931 611485 yummy@rachaelssecrettearoom.co.uk For available dates, visit Rachael’s website www. rachaelssecrettearoom.co.uk

Self-confessed ‘foodie’ journalist Amanda Volley showcases all that is great about food and drink in Derbyshire.

Robin Maycock

Family Butchers and Bakers Famous for their fresh, locally sourced meat, bakery and deli counter. Christmas Poultry Orders Locally reared Turkeys, Free range Geese, Fresh English Ducks, Fresh English Chickens, Local Pheasants, Mince Pies.

Set in beautiful Derbyshire countryside with free parking outside AWARD WINNING HOLLOWAY VILLAGE BUTCHERS Lea Shaw Road, Holloway, Nr Matlock, Derbyshire DE4 5AT

01629 534333 www.robinmaycockbutchers.co.uk 74 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

Providing customers with quality and tasty produce.

Delicious Produce for the Festive Season Our meats and produce are sourced from local farms in and around the Peak District, selling the very best farm fresh turkeys,chicken, beef, lamb, pork, geese and ducks all locally sourced.

ORDERS NOW BEING TAKEN

for our free range, home reared turkeys and cockerels

We stock delicious cooked meats, homemade meat pies, quiches and pork pies including 21b and Gala pork pies made to order. A full range of jams and chutneys also available for great gift ideas.

ORDERS NOW BEING TAKEN FOR ALL YOUR CHRISTMAS FAYRE AND TRIMMINGS

JOIN OUR CHRISTMAS CLUB - PHONE FOR DETAILS

R.G Phone: 07966 217779 email:info@oakfieldfarm.co.uk Facebook: oakfieldfarmshop

Oakfield Farm, Belper Road, Stanley Common, Derbyshire DE7 6FP www.oakfieldfarm.co.uk Opening hours: Friday 10 am – 3 pm - Saturday 9 am - 3pm

CHRISTMAS FESTIVITIES AT THE IZAAK

. Stafford Ltd

72 Western Road, Mickleover, Derby. Telephone:

Q ua

lity Butchers

01332 514087

THE IZAAK WALTON HOTEL

CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR IN THE BEAUTIFUL DOVEDALE VALLEY The cold winter months and the festive season’s inevitable excesses presents the perfect opportunity to get out and visit the beautiful Dovedale Valley. If you wish to experience the magic for yourselves, we still have, with advance booking only, limited availability for: Monday 24th to Tuesday 27th December Come and celebrate Christmas with us at the Izaak Walton, 1-3 Night Christmas Package stays are available. New Years Eve Join us for our New Years Eve Gala Dinner Dance! 2 Night breaks are available starting either 30th or 31st December.

The Izaak Walton Hotel is an AA 3 Star converted 17th Century Country House Hotel offering comfort, history and views of outstanding natural beauty, so why not come along and join in with our Christmas festivities. Limited availability still available for: Christmas Party Nights - Join us for your Christmas Party Nights including a 3 Course meal followed by evening entertainment! Dates available throughout December. Christmas Lunches - Enjoy a delicious 3 Course Christmas Lunch for just £25.00 per person! Served Monday to Saturday, 12pm to 4pm, throughout December. For bookings, more information or to view our delicious menus, please visit our website (where you can also download our 2018 Christmas brochure). Alternatively contact us on the below. reception@izaakwaltonhotel.com

01335 350981 www.izaakwaltonhotel.com Dovedale, Ilam, nr Ashbourne, DE6 2AY

For more information or to view our delicious menus please visit our website www.izaakwaltonhotel.com or call 01335 350 981 The Izaak Walton Hotel is a charming 17th Century building offering comfort, history and views of outstanding natural beauty. The hotel, named after the famous author of ‘The Complete Angler’, is privately owned and situated in an idyllic setting and with modern facilities offers a unique combination of warm hospitality, tranquillity and a traditional outlook whilst maintaining high levels of service. CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 75

RICHMOND ASTON-ON-TRENT CARE HOME

Changing Perceptions for the Better Take a look around Richmond Aston-on-Trent Care Home and prepare to have your preconceptions of a care home changed for the better. S E RV I C E S & FACI LI T I ES I NCLUDE NURSING & DEMENTIA CARE | RESPITE & CONVALESCENT CARE • Nursing & residential care

• Restaurant, bar & café

• Specialist dementia care

• Wellness spa, pool & gym

• Respite & convalescent care

• Hair & beauty salon

• 61 en-suite rooms

• Landscaped gardens

• Activities for all abilities

• Village location

Book a visit to find out more

Call: 01332 895702 www.richmond-villages.com/aston Richmond Aston-on-Trent, Richmond Drive, Aston-on-Trent, Derbyshire DE72 2EA

COUNTRY

app

Wheathills House RESIDENTIAL CARE HOME Just 3 Miles From Mickleover

Located in rural Derbyshire, just 4 miles from Derby city centre and 9 miles from the quaint market town of Ashbourne. We are very proud to be celebrating our service since 1984 and are devoted to providing 'Care, Comfort and Security' for all of our residents.

For more information, contact us on 01332 82 46 00 or by emailing info@wheathillshouse.co.uk

it’s FREE to download today… and tomorrow… and the day after that too!! We go one better than a free trial, County Images app is always free to download, so get it now and read every Country Images Magazine on your smart phone or tablet today. Just another reason we’re Derbyshire’s best read lifestyle magazine!

Wheathills House, Brun Lane, Derby, DE6 4LU

www.wheathillshouse.co .uk

or visit www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 77

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Win a ÂŁ10 W H Smith Voucher Across: 1 Cows do it 4 Target 9 Small tree 10 Hair wash 12 Bury 13 Vote back in 16 Slow tempo 18 Tree 19 European Union 20 --suite! 21 Cut 23 Alaska 24 Unusual 27 Bounder 28 Man U in short 29 Leg supports 31 Eminent 34 Rubbish 35 On target earnings 36 Picture 39 Audacity 40 Mountain 42 Unsteady 43 Hangs about 45 Outer 46 Saying 47 Slip Down: 1 Band! 2 Plenty 3 Merges 4 Thumb 5 Eatery 6 Lodger 7 Adenosine monophosphate 8 Goes on 11 Night before bride 14 Bird 15 Top 10 17 Liven up 22 Jump on one foot 25 About nothing 26 Root 29 Turned wood 30 Wandered 32 Behind the tongue 33 Brought above water 37 Check accounts 38 Sword 41 Stopper 44 Moose Just find the Derbyshire/Nottinghamshire village in the crossword belowÂ and send you answer to: Crossword Comp. Country Images, Unit 5, Office Village, Keys Road, Alfreton, Derbys DE55 7FQ. Or email competitions@imagespublishing.co.uk Entries to reach us by November 15th 2018

First correct entry drawn wins the prize. Terms and conditions apply.

October Answer: Crowdecote

Residential Care | Nursing Care | Dementia Care | Respite Care | Day Care

Flexible Care... a few hours a few days a few weeks ...to suit your needs

ashmere the

family

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Smalley Hall Valley Lodge West Hallam

Main Road, Smalley, DE7 6DS Bakewell Road, Matlock, DE4 3BN 8 Newdigate Street, West Hallam, DE7 6GZ

Telephone: 0845 602 2059 | Web: www.ashmere.co.uk | Email: derbys@ashmere.co.uk 78 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

Gillotts’ Ethos “A local paper recently carried a story about a vacancy at a nearby crematorium, speculating on the qualities that were needed to work in such a position. The qualities that they are looking for are similar to those that we try and find when recruiting a new member of staff. We very quickly know who is cut out for working in the funeral profession and who isn’t. We don’t use set questions to explore this, nor do we do complicated psychometric tests. We explain the role and have a discussion, and wait for the person with the right skills and personality to shine through. Things are changing, but people have traditionally assumed that people who work in the funeral profession are throwbacks from a Dickensian era – serious, melancholy types, whose outlook is shaped by the fact that they deal with people’s deaths every day. But we don’t see it like that. We deal with people’s lives, with the families for who life has been turned upside down, who have to make a series of important decisions whilst dealing with their own emotions. We help them celebrate their loved one’s life: whose funeral the families will hope to showcase their loved one’s character, their love of laughter, joy of singing or support for a local football team. However, we do have to control and contain our own emotions in order to carry out our work on the day, but there are, inevitably, some funerals that affect us more than others. For me, they aren’t just the ones where the deceased was young, but also those who have no-one to give them a send-off. There can be nothing sadder than to depart this world without anyone there to send you on your way. Funerals are, of course, sad occasions, but there is comfort for relatives to know how much their loved one touched the lives of others. This is something everyone at Gillotts recognises – and why our focus is on life, not on death”. Anthony Topley Gillotts Funeral Directors Abbott Street, Heanor

Care staff celebrated at glitzy awards bash

Photographed left to right: David Poxton- Managing Director Rachel Forbes- Employee of the year at the Firs Jane Phillis- Area Manager

Ashmere Derbyshire were delighted to hold their first annual awards at Eastwood Hall last Friday, which recognized their hard working care staff. The event was hosted by Emma and Josh from Erewash sound and Capital FM. Staff were treated to a special appearance from local magician from Britain’s got talent- Carl “Starman” magic. With seven homes across Derbyshire and a workforce of 200 staff, Managing Director David Poxton said “Ashmere Derbyshire have been lucky enough to have a number of successful entries into the Great British Care Awards over the years but it has always been a frustration that we have so many dedicated people working within our family and so little opportunity to recognise them all. Even our employee of the month scheme has only allowed us to

acknowledge a fraction of the good work that goes on daily so we thought it was high time we stepped up our game and allowed everyone to shine! Meeting with all of the nominees over the last week it has been humbling to see the level of dedication and compassion on show. Choosing one person for each category really was an impossible task and I would just like to take this opportunity to say how very proud I am of each and everyone of you and the service you deliver” The ceremony included over 20 awards being presented on the evening, including the end of life award proudly presented to Sarah York and Kelly Winson, employee of the year was presented to Rachel Forbes from the Firs and the Star of Ashmere who was awarded to Kirsty Dilks from Kidsley Grange.

CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 79

Season of mists and mellow hues

Jillian Hart would like to invite you to an exclusive fashion event by Joseph Ribkoff on Thursday the 8th November 2018. This is a great opportunity to view the fabulous Joesph Ribkoff 2018 collection and be inspired for the Autumn/ Winter season. This popular annual event will have seated fashion shows at 11.30am and 2.00 pm with customers receiving 15% discount off Joseph Ribkoff purchases on the day. Please telephone the shop to reserve your place, Jillian and her staff look forward to welcoming you. Jillian Hart Fashions, 40-44 Babington Lane, Derby Tel 01332 347647 80 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

At Mistral the inhouse style has always included a beautiful knitwear collection. Traditional techniques which truly encapsulates the fun personality of Mistral! Available now from Clarkes of Ripley, Grosvenor Road and Clarkes of Belper, King Street.

Colourful gloves, perfect winter must haves available at Frox and the perfect finishing touch to your winter outfit. Frox stock a super range of pre-loved designer, ladies clothing and accessories for all occasions. Frox, Draycott Mill, Draycott, Derbyshire. Tel 01332 875572 www.froxshop.com

Autumn/Winter

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DERBYSHIRE’S PREMIER DRESS AGENCY Est. 2006

Tel: 01332 875572 www.froxshop.com

40-44 Babington Lane Derby Tel: 01332 347647 Opening Times: Monday Saturday 9.30am - 5.00pm

New Season - New Brands - New Look!

Friendly personal service from assistants who care, in a truly independent store that’s big enough to stock the quality brands you want.

Footwear – Accessories Lingerie- Gifts Linens- Homewear Menswear & Coffee Shop. Joules White Stuff Seasalt Weird Fish

Olsen Tigi Mistral Pomodoro Soyaconcept

Luca Vanucci Viz a viz Joe Brown

8-18 Grosvenor Road, Ripley Tel: 01773 742151 Ladies Fashion at our Belper store includes Mistral, Esprit, Red Cuckoo, Luca Vanucci, Weird Fish and more 30-32 King Street, Belper, Telephone Tel: 01773 525358 CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 81

When I mentioned to someone that I was going to meet John and Ben Stevenson owners of Stevenson’s Jewellers in Chesterfield their immediate reaction was ”Ah, a real jeweller”. That’s a fine accolade to have in business, one of being at the top of your profession and being well respected as such.

A Reputation Built on Experience

inding out the story behind the Stevenson’s name was a real eye opener for me. There are ‘jewellers’, and there are ‘jewellers of distinction’ which when you mention names like Rolex, Cartier and Omega take your mind on a new route, and then it takes another turn when you add ‘bespoke jeweller’ either new or remodelled. Where on earth do I start? As I walked up Glumangate I saw two gentlemen talking in the doorway of Stevensons, one of whom turned out to be John Stevenson. He seemed to know everyone who passed and that was true for most of the time I was there, with people calling in to collect this, buy that, drop something off. John was so welcoming and friendly and put me at ease in a huge industry that I really don’t know a lot about other than recognising the large branded companies by name that I mentioned earlier John introduced me to his son Ben who was just as friendly and I could see why they have built such a prestigious reputation over the years. John’s experience covers a staggering fifty nine years in the jewellery industry, originally as a sales representative, which gave him a great insider’s advantage when he then opened his own shop. From that time on Stevenson Jewellers have forged a fine reputation as diamond merchants and their name is synonymous with quality and personal service. Ben, who used to come into the shop from being just 12 years old, explained that their three areas of business are, new jewellery sales, repairs and the purchase and sale of pre-owned Rolex . But, within those categories lies so much. For instance sourcing stones for bespoke items takes Ben all over the world.

“When I see a stone, whether it’s a Sapphire, Ruby, Emerald or Diamond” Ben says “I can immediately visualise the best way of using it and the piece that I can create”. This kind of vision can only come with experience, but then Ben has spent over twenty years in Bond Street London. If they see the right stone, then they buy it, knowing just what cut and what setting to use it in, and within a short time you will find their latest, original creation in the shop.

“If someone is looking for something for a special occasion, John and Ben, as diamond merchants, will create for them a bespoke piece. This makes the item personal, unique and the perfect gift. There is still a need for quality goods and Stevenson Jewellers are a prime example of a high street store successfully selling top quality goods at very attractive prices. The most recent addition are beautiful limited edition bronze sculptures. “We work with the finest sculptors in their field” says Ben “to produce works such as Country Pursuits, British Wildlife, Birds and Stags. This is a group we call ‘The Derbyshire Stags” “You may notice I don’t wear a watch” I said to Ben “ I either drop, lose, break or smash it, or they just stop”, “You’re my ideal customer” he laughed. And he’s right! “What about the Pre-owned Rolex and Omega side of the business?” I asked. Basically, if you want a new or pre-owned Rolex you just ask Ben and he will scour the globe for you, however rare the edition. “But”, says Ben, “That’s just the beginning. Once the item is found, where ever it is in the world, you then have to allow for the exchange rate whether it’s Euro, Dollar or something more obscure. That rate can be critical to getting the right price for our clients”. John and Ben monitor the foreign exchange market constantly and then strike when the rate is best. Like I said earlier there’s such a lot more to learn about how people operate their businesses to give us the best possible service. John and Ben are very product led. They are passionate about what they do and that shines through. I witnessed people coming into the shop and they were so patient with them. There’s no pressure to buy. Even when they showed someone the box that a certain necklace came in, they were enthusiastic about it. Presentation means so much to them whether it’s the goods or how they are boxed, wrapped and displayed. Getting it right for their customers is of paramount importance. Stevenson’s shop isn’t huge but it just oozes quality and service. John and Ben focus giving each customer the dignity of personal service and you don’t need 1,000’s of square feet to do that, you just need that certain something that gives you the edge and I’d have to say that I, amongst many others found it here at this family owned Jewellers of Distinction.

John and Ben Stevenson

CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 83

Season of mists and mellow hues A wonderful selection of leather bags and gifts you can touch, feel and see before purchase. Available at the fabulous Leather Shop, 2a Chapel Street, Belper, Derbyshire DE56 1AR 01773 822794 www.theleathershopbelper.co.uk

T is for Ten! The Alphabet Gift Shop Celebrates 10 years in Mickleover! As the old adage goes; “time flies when you’re having fun” and that’s exactly what’s happened in the 10 years since The Alphabet Gift Shop opened its doors for the first time on Mickleover’s Station Road back in November 2008. As the gift retail specialist prepares to celebrate its 10th birthday, we look back at the ten years of The Alphabet Gift Shop. Despite news of impending financial doom and a worldwide recession, Sue Dorling’s wholesale personalised gift business was booming and needed more room to grow, so No.44 Station Road, Mickleover became its new home. The 100-yearold cottage was extended and refurbished in record time and a whole new adventure into retailing began with The Alphabet Gift Shop opening its doors for business on 21st November 2008! A further extension in 2010 and another in 2011 saw the gift shop double its floor space within its first 3 years of trading! More alterations followed in 2015 to make room for the long-awaited Uppercase Coffee Shop which is now situated at the back of the store. A licenced coffee shop which serves breakfasts, lunches, cakes and of course tea and coffee was another new adventure for The Alphabet Gift Shop, Mickleover! “I can’t believe it is 10 years since we opened – it seems just like yesterday!” said Sue, founder of The Alphabet Gift Shop. It’ll be cake, balloons and celebrations all day on Wednesday 21st November, and we will be celebrating all week with special offers and customer competitions. For more information about the birthday celebrations check out The Alphabet Gift Shop on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. www.thealphabetgiftshop.co.uk E-mail: georgia@thealphabetgiftshop. co.uk Phone: 01283 749933

84 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

Did you know that Cheeky Bambini in Belper also stock toys? I have a lovely collection of quality, sustainable, ethically sourced wooden toys and traditional rag dolls. These beautiful toys are great for interactive play with your little ones and can be handed down or passed on when your child has outgrown them. Cheeky Bambini, 122 Bridge Street, Belper, Derbyshire, DE56 1AZ

Season of mists and mellow hues

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The Beauty Spot Look Good for the Festive Season A full range of Beauty Treatments available A wonderful selection of leather bags and gifts you can touch, feel and see before purchase. Available at the fabulous

� Facials � Waxing � Manicures Eye Treatments � Pedicures � Electrolysis We also specialise in Electrolysis and are members of the BIAE. The permanent removal of unwanted hair

LEATHER SHOP

Your conﬁdence begins with us

2a Chapel Street, Belper, Derbyshire DE56 1AR 01773 822794

28a Sadler Gate (upstairs above Giorgio Reggiani) Derby, DE1 3NL

www.theleathershopbelper.co.uk leathershopbelper

Tel: 01332 332203 www.electrolysis.co.uk www.facebook.com/TheBeautySpotDerby CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 85

Boost Your Skin with Evolve Beauty HYALURONIC EYE COMPLEX With Active Botanical Cells & Hyaluronic Acid 10ml £16 For all skin types Exotic Tuberose flower plant stem cells help to reduce the appearance of eye bags, fines lines and puffiness while firming and brightening the delicate eye area. Hyaluronic acid (known for its ability to hold up to 1000 times its weight in water), helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, making the skin look younger with an improved skin tone, whilst cucumber extract cools and soothes. The metal roller ball applicator helps to correct puffiness and signs of fatigue. ---------------------------------------------------------Directions: Roll gently to delicate eye area. Shake well before use. Great as a cooling pick me up throughout the day. (Note: Make sure you “shake to wake” in order to activate the rollerball).

RAINFOREST RESCUE BLEMISH SERUM With Willow Bark, Acai & Copaiba 30ml £22 For oily and combination skin This natural yet powerful skin treatment can be used on blemish prone and congested skin at any age as well as oily and combination skin. Our Amazonian blend of Acai and Copaiba is proven to decrease sebum production and reduce the appearance of blemishes and open pores, leaving skin clear, calm and matte. Willow bark, a natural source of salicylic acid, helps to boost cell turnover and exfoliate without irritation, for a smooth and healthy looking complexion. Directions: Apply gently on clean skin morning and evening.

DAILY RENEW FACIAL CREAM With Hyaluronic Acid and Argan 60ml £24 For normal to dry skin This moisturiser has intense nourishing, hydrating and effective anti-ageing properties and restores normal to dry skin with a blend of pure organic oils. Argan oil nourishes whilst natural hyaluronic acid soothes and hydrates. Delicately fragranced with soothing hypoallergenic vanilla & coconut natural fragrance. 99.75% NATURAL 32% ORGANIC

For more information and to buy online www.evolvebeauty.co.uk

Rainforest Rescue Blemish Serum. This product is perfect for oily and combination skins. Its really light texture goes on easily and absorbs straight into your skin so you can apply makeup instantly. Its smells divine too. You can use it every day morning and night for more problem skin or just when blemishes appear. CB

Hyaluronic Eye Complex This is a really handy product which glides on easily and sinks in really quickly. I can tell after a few weeks that my ﬁne lines are less visible. Great. VP

Daily Renew Facial Cream. This has the consistency of a mousse but is really rich. I had to leave it on a few minutes before I put my makeup on, but any dry patches soon disappeared which was lovely. I think this is a great cream for the winter months. JP

Country

2019 Calendar

Available now

£3.99 Postage extra*

£3.00

Proceeds in aid of

A collection of Country Images stunning front covers

from each sale will go to Derbyshire Air Ambulance.

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SMILE ! www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk 01773 830344 In aid of

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www.glendairdental.co.uk CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 87

ʻThe Friendly Professional Local Company With Over 25 Years Experienceʼ

New Citroën C4 Cactus wins the ‘Comfort Award’ at the inaugural carwow ‘Car of the Year’ Awards. The ‘Comfort Award’ recognises the car that delivers the best comfort, style and practicality for a reasonable price.

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The New C4 Cactus was praised for its outstanding driver and passenger comfort, achieved thanks to the full integration of the Citroën Advanced Comfort® programme, and the world premiere of the brand’s Advanced Comfort seats. It is also the first model in the world to offer Advanced Comfort® seats featuring new high-density foam that improves seating comfort for both the driver and passengers. New C4 Cactus has 12 driver assistance systems and three connectivity technologies available as well as a wide range of efficient engines.

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Made to measure Gates, Railings & Ironwork Phone NOW for your FREE on site quotation Fitting Service Available

Dove Bow Top Double Gates 4 ft high 7 ft gap only £462 4 ft high 12 ft gap only £792 6 ft high 7 ft gap only £714 6 ft high 12 ft gap only £1224

Dove Flat Top Double Gates 3 ft high 7 ft gap only £399 3 ft high 12 ft gap only £684 6 ft high 7 ft gap only £630 6 ft high 12 ft gap only £1080

All gates come complete with brackets tofit to wall or existing post (posts not included)

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88 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

www.thegatemaker.co.uk Shot Blast & Powder Coating Specialists in refurbishing wrought iron gates

Phone 01773 745822 NOW

Motor Bike Frames, Garden Furniture Collection Service Available for a small charge

Holiday Apartment

The Tower, Sandy Close, Crantock, Cornwall

RICHARD BOOTH UPHOLSTERY

*Re-Upholstery *Loose Covers *Bespoke *Wide selection of fabrics 1 New Road, Heage, Derbyshire

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Luxury S/C Holiday Apartment for 4 (Couples/Families Only) Outstanding Atlantic and Country Views Glorious Beach and NT Coastal Footpath (4 minutes walk) Parking, Dog Friendly and No Passing Trafﬁc

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Directory Call 01773 830344

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The Area’s Favourite Window Company

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A Local Family Run Company

01773 765302 CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 89

90 years of commitment to quality and service

erbys longest established, family owned, premier furniture and home interiors store, Hunters, on Babington Lane, recently celebrated their 90th anniversary which is a remarkable feat in todays shifting economy. The event was covered by television, local press and radio due to it being a huge milestone in Hunters illustrious history.

Facing the future

NEW ﬁtted kitchens at Hunters

Keeping up with changes in tastes, trends, seasons and styles means that high street stores have to revamp, redesign and present themselves constantly to appeal to potential and existing customers. For 90 years Hunters have kept pace and stayed ahead of the game, which is why they thrive and have an extensive client base, that frequent the store to furnish their homes. Being family owned, with Matthew and Nina Sheard in control, quality products and customer service is still high on the agenda.

Matthew says “ Our commitment to quality means that much of our furniture is made within the UK where we have a world class manufacturing industry especially in upholstery and bed manufacture”

Neptune is a name synonymous with quality and, browsing the new kitchen displays, it is easy to see why it is so popular. Matthew and Nina have major displays that feature the versatility of Neptune from fully fitted kitchens to a mix of free-standing and fitted. These are linked with the complete range of Neptune paints and accessories so that coordination is made easier. With two interior designers in store, a free design service from whole house to individual room is available to help customers achieve their ideal dream home.

A family tradition The latest evolution in the Hunters store is the opening of the new Neptune kitchen department, which was followed by a total revamp throughout the store, presenting it in a whole new light and refreshing way.

Talking to Nina and Matthew about their backgrounds, it is quite plain to see that they bring a tremendous amount of experience to the family business and wish to continue the Hunters tradition laid down by Mr Hunter ninety years ago. Matthews parents bought the business in the 80’s and now Matthew and Nina take it forward today. Matthew has come from working for a major financial corporation, a major utilities company, through to running a multi million pound company, before joining the family firm ten years ago. Nina’s background is in retail and marketing to name but two. Bringing these two business heads together, makes for a business that plans carefully, is prepared to invest in it’s future yet still provide the personal service that is very much in demand today. There is something very comforting about a family business being in safe hands and continuing the traditions laid down over many years. It’s obvious that at Hunters the family are all working together in complete harmony to achieve the same goal.

Visit the showroom

The Hunters showroom encompasses major brands including Duresta, Neptune, Tempur, Alexander and James, beautifully displayed over three ﬂoors providing inspirational ideas for the home. The store features a lovely café serving light lunches and cakes, essential with the rise in popularity of coffee shops. Why not call and be inspired.

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PREMIER INTERIORS T: 01773 252090 | W: premierinteriorsnottingham.co.uk Mon - Wed - 9am - 6pm | Thur - 9am - 7pm | Fri - 9am - 6pm Sat - 9am - 5.30pm | Sun - 10am - 4pm Showroom: 227 Station Road, Langley Mill, Nottinghamshire, NG16 4AD www.premierinteriorsnottingham.co.uk *Terms and conditions apply. *Not in conjunction with any other offer.

Lawrence Sofa

Furniture & Home Interiors Est. 1928 Hunters, Babington Lane, Derby. DE1 1SY t. 01332 349285 huntersfurniture.co.uk