All Things Local - Village Edition - April/May 2025

CREATE YOUR OWN PERFECT SPACE

Garden rooms aren’t just a room in your garden, they’re rooms which add value to your life & your home. A fully insulated garden room is just like a room in your house, but has the added benefits of not needing deep foundations, lengthy (and costly) building work, or the inconvenience of having an extension.

With over 20 years’ experience in manufacturing and installing garden rooms across the UK, our team can create your family the perfect space to use all-yearround. Visit one of our open-air show sites in the Midlands to see a variety of garden rooms, garden bars, home office solutions and BBQ Cabins.

SCAN ME

Winners’ Corner Contents

Mrs J Rogerson from Breadsall who has won a bottle of Champagne. CONGRATULATIONS

Haydn John from Kilburn who has won lunch for 2 people at The Bottle Bank in Belper.

WELCOME LETTER

Hello readers

Welcome to the April/May issue of All Things Local. Hopefully, by the time this issue lands on your doormat, spring will have sprung! But, we don’t want to count our (spring) chickens quite yet … you never know at this time of year, do you. It’s highly possible that we may still see more snowfall – it’s certainly not unknown in April.

Anyway, enough of that talk! Spring is definitely around the corner, whether it’s arrived yet or not, and with it comes warmer days and lighter evenings thanks to the arrival of British Summer Time. In a cruel twist of fate for all the mothers out there, the clocks go forward an hour on Mothering Sunday, 30th March, so Mother’s Day starts with one less hour of sleep! Hopefully that just means you’ll all be tucking into your breakfast in bed a little earlier!

Easter Sunday is late this year, falling on 20th April. Did you know…? The date of Easter changes each year because it’s based on the lunar cycle, so Easter falls on the Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox on 21st March. This means that the earliest date Easter Sunday can possibly fall on is 22nd March – but this hasn’t occurred since 1818, and it won’t happen again until 2285! The latest possible date for Easter Sunday is 25th April, which will next occur in 2038.

The Easter eggs that we all enjoy tucking into have come about through a combination of Pagan rituals, Christian symbolism and modern marketing … all rolled into one conveniently packaged chocolate egg shape! Nowadays, Easter eggs hit the supermarket shelves

immediately after the Christmas chocolates have been cleared so, if you wished, you could enjoy several months’ worth of Easter eggs before the big day itself!

Talking of treats … we’ve got a treat in store for some lucky readers in our Prize Crossword … you could win Sunday lunch for two at Horsley Lodge Estate! Turn to page 6 to have a go. And, as usual, you can also win a bottle of Champagne in our Champagne Sudoku competition on page 32, if numbers are more your thing. Remember to post your entries in by 9th April – for either, or both competitions – to be in with a chance of winning.

We hope you enjoy reading this issue of All Things Local which is, as always, packed full of articles and local advertisers. If you need anything, you’re likely to be able to find someone who can help you tucked in amongst these pages!

Have a super spring and we’ll be back in a couple of months, as spring turns into summer, with our June/July issue.

With best wishes,

Team ATL

Pictured l to r: Karyn Milner (Publisher/Editor), Ruth Brown (Advertising Sales), Helen Young (Editorial Copywriter & Coordinator)

Advertising Enquiries: Ruth Brown E: ruth@allthingslocal.co.uk

T: 07545 261034

W: www.allthingslocal.co.uk

Excellent Service and Products

After looking around for a floor fitter for the kitchen and utility area in our old house we came across this company. While others were all about the problems, T.Nutt were really positive and professional. Great range of products across the whole design and price range. We got great advice on suitability, preparation and fitting. Nothing was too much trouble. The fitting service was excellent, from the laying of the screed to level the old floor to the tidying after. The fitters were prompt, professional and really considerate. The finished room is superb. Highly recommend this company.

Customer in Derbyshire Posted on 21/09/2024, work completed 19/09/2024

Your old flooring uplifted and disposed of if necessary

Business & Professional

Legal Matters

Shacklocks Solicitors

Legal Matters: Trusts

Legal Matters: Everything in Order

In each edition legal advisors from Shacklocks deal with important legal topics. This month Marion Vesey (pictured) invites us to think about making a decision that will benefit future generations.

Legal Matters: Breakdown of a Marriage or Civil Partnership: Dividing the Pensions

Cassandra Worton, Partner with Shacklocks LLP and a member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners, explains some of the mystery behind Trusts.

Are you wondering if your legal and financial arrangements are still appropriate in these changing times?

Making a Will is a serious business. It is a time which gives many people cause to stop and think about how they want to be remembered when they are gone.

Trusts are a very well established part of English law, but are generally not available in many European countries. So what are they, and how did they come about?

When a marriage or a civil partnership breaks down, consideration needs to be given to how the assets of the union are to be divided. Assets can include the home, savings, cars and other valuables but also pensions.

Over a lifetime we have all accumulated various legal and financial arrangements that seemed right for us at the time. We will have made decisions for the right reasons, but just as the world is changing, our circumstances may change too. It is important that our arrangements reflect our current situations and the present financial climate as well as our future wishes.

70 years later the trust is still providing that accommodation.

o Giving your house away: understanding the pitfalls and alternatives.

o Inheritance Tax: your liability and how to reduce or eliminate it.

The difficulty is that the CETV for one scheme might produce completely different pension benefits to the CETV in another scheme. You might share a particular pension equally but the reality in terms of what you might each receive in your pocket could be significantly different. The court is generally concerned about the effect of a pension sharing order, especially when people might have been together for a long time.

o Retirement plans: will you be able to afford the lifestyle you desire?

o Income, savings and investments: are these structured in the most suitable way for you and your family?

o Making use of your available tax allowances.

The CETV provided by a pension scheme might not be a true representation of the value of that pension. In some cases, especially some public sector pensions, the CETV provided can significantly understate the true worth of a pension.

Another of the trusts we look after was set up by a client who wanted to help people with particular medical conditions. Her kindness has enabled her trustees to provide financial support to a gifted young musician who has experienced a number of health issues that have interfered with her education, to enable that child to be educated in the most appropriate environment.

o If you have been appointed as a Trustee, understanding your legal obligations in respect of registering and administering the Trust and reporting to HMRC.

Once in a while, it’s good to check you have everything in order. Here are some of the things you might think about:

Indeed the pensions can be the most valuable asset and care has to be exercised in how they are treated and how they are divided. Usually, pensions are dealt with in one of the following ways:

Put as simply as possible, a Trust will arise where a person transfers property or assets into the name of their chosen Trustees, for the Trustees to hold that property or those assets for certain purposes and on certain terms, for the benefit of specific persons or a group of people.

Many people are attracted by the idea of doing something to help others less fortunate than themselves after they pass away, particularly if their family are adequately provided for or if they have no close family. Whilst some still like the idea of supporting major national charities, there are many who prefer to benefit more local causes or causes close to their heart, possibly where they have had a personal involvement or received support during their lifetime.

o If you have been appointed as an Attorney or Deputy through the Court of Protection, understanding your legal responsibilities in respect of these roles.

1. Pension sharing. This is where one pension is divided to create essentially two pensions, a reduced pension for the member of the pension scheme and a new pension for the other person.

o Directing how you are to be looked after in the future if your health fails and choosing someone to make these decisions if you are not able to make those decisions yourself.

o Choosing someone to manage your financial affairs if you are no longer able to do so.

A Charitable Trust can be set up either during your lifetime with savings and investments built up already, or alternatively through a specially prepared Will that will only take effect following your death and will therefore not deprive you of capital or income during your lifetime.

There are obviously many different pension schemes in existence. Each will probably be different to the next. It is very important that you receive the right advice and that the true value of each pension is understood and shared fairly. Often it is necessary to involve other experts, for example pension actuaries, who will produce comprehensive reports to assist in the division of pension assets. The information given above is necessarily general and cannot be relied upon in any particular case.

2. Pension attachment. This is where a court makes an order directing that some of the pension payable to one person is paid to the other.

To better understand Trusts we can take a look back to the times of the Crusades. Trusts first began to take shape in medieval England when men were travelling abroad to join the Crusades. They would transfer their property to a trusted friend for them to look after, manage and protect until their return, which may not be for many years. The moral obligation imposed on the friend is one of the earliest forms of a Trust, which over the centuries has become embedded in our legal system.

o Making sure you and your Attorneys or Executors know where your safekeeping items such as Deeds, Wills and Power of Attorney are kept should you need them at short notice.

Shacklocks LLP are Solicitors and Financial Advisors and have been advising our local communities for over 120 years.

3. Offsetting. This is where the pensions are left untouched but the share of other assets are adjusted to take into account the value of pensions.

Whilst the idea that someone travelling abroad may leave their property in Trust to be managed whilst they are away is still very useful today, Trusts may be used closer to home to protect and manage property or money in other circumstances too. For example, a parent may set up a Trust in their lifetime or through their Will for a child, or for an adult son or daughter who is not able to manage their own affairs perhaps because of disability or mental capacity issues. A married person may provide in their Will for their surviving spouse to have a life interest in their half of the family home thereby protecting that half of the home for the next generation. A Trust may be used where someone receives damages as a result of a personal injury or clinical negligence claim. A couple may set up a Trust to keep their family assets in the bloodline in case of changes in family and marital arrangements which may take the assets out of the family, or someone with a second family may set up a Trust to make special arrangements for their two families. A person with Charitable intentions may set up a Trust in their lifetime or on death for the benefit of those who they particularly wish to help in the future, and by doing so leave a lasting legacy: many of the charities we see now may have been set up in this way. These are all types of Trust.

o Understanding what will happen to your home and savings if you require care in the future.

Something that our team will discuss with clients in this situation is the idea of setting up their own charitable trust which can continue to provide support for charitable causes of their choosing long after they have passed away. Creating your own charity means that your trustees can provide support to those who need help most. There can be a great sense of satisfaction in knowing that your trustees will carry out your wishes after you have gone and that your name will be associated with such good deeds even after you are no longer around.

Before you even think about dealing with pensions you need to know their value. The starting point is often the provision of a Cash Equivalent Transfer Value (“CETV”). This needs to be provided in all cases. Whilst the CETV is important, further information is often needed in terms of benefit statements so that the full terms of the pension can be considered.

Our team at Shacklocks have a particular speciality in preparing arrangements of this kind and also of acting as professional trustees to enable wishes to be fulfilled and instructions to be followed.

At Shacklocks LLP we are committed to helping you to understand the true worth of pensions and to help you receive a fair financial settlement which will meet your needs. Shacklocks LLP family law team are currently offering all new clients an initial free half hour appointment. To find out more, contact Ben Stubbins and his team on 01773 822333 or email bens@shacklocks.co.uk.

o Second marriages or unmarried couples: navigating different family needs and circumstances.

o Providing for the future for a child or grandchild who is unwell or who may struggle to manage money.

If we fast forward to the present day, the reasons to use a Trust are broadly the same as in medieval England; there are different types of Trusts and there are many different types of situations which may create Trusts. Trusts may be set up in a lifetime, or through a Will following death. Trusts may provide circumstances in which beneficiaries will become absolutely entitled to the Trust Fund, or they may provide flexibility by allowing for discretion to be exercised as to who should benefit.

o Ensuring that assets are kept in the family, particularly if relationships go wrong.

At Shacklocks we have set up a number of charitable trusts over the 150 years or so we have been in business and we still look after those trusts today. One of the charitable trusts we look after, for example, was established by a will in the 1940’s to provide accommodation for elderly residents.

It is important to understand the difference between different pension types. Some pensions are pots of money which can sometimes be converted into cash (subject to tax). Other pensions simply give a person the right to receive an income from a particular date until their death.

Shacklocks LLP have been dealing with Trusts for many years, though not quite as far back as the Crusades! If you would like to know more about Trusts and how they may be of help in your circumstances contact Cassandra Worton or Richard Farmer at Shacklocks LLP on 01773 822333 or 01623 626141 or email cassandraw@shacklocks.co.uk or richardf@shacklocks.co.uk.

If you are thinking of supporting charities through your Will or during your lifetime with a lump sum, why not talk to us about the different ways in which we can help you benefit those good causes, and how to make the most of the tax rules that enable a charitable cause to benefit.

Call us at Shacklocks to talk about how we can help you to help your favourite local causes.

Ben Stubbins

To talk to Shacklocks about getting your affairs in order, please contact Cassandra Worton at our Belper office on 01773 822 333, Jude Wright at our Allestree office on 01332 559 281, Thomas Slack and Benjamin Edwards at our Mansfield office on 01623 626 141 or to our Chartered Financial Planner Ross Keightley on 01623 626 141.

The information in this article is for general guidance only and advice should be obtained for your particular circumstances.

Telephone Shacklocks on 0845 602 2344 or email me at marionv@shacklocks.co.uk.

Cassandra Worton

Business & Professional

Money Matters:

Money Matters:

Tick Tock, Tick Tock

10 Years of Belper IFS: Our First Decade

10 years ago, Belper Independent Financial Solutions was formed after its founder (me, Kevin Glover) was made redundant from The Derbyshire Building Society.

So, the dust is starting to settle (to an extent) on the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement of last October. The new Tax Year is close to commencing as you read this. We know that, with effect from tax year 2027-2028 onwards, pensions will form part of an Estate which prior to this date would usually sit outside of the Estate for Inheritance Tax purposes.

Since then, Belper has seen the loss of The Derbyshire, Woolworths, Somerfield, Thomas Cook and Britannia Building Society to name but a few long-standing institutions that are now confined to history Generations of people have been served or been customers of these organisations. You are probably one. State Pension Age has changed several times and will most likely do so again At least interest rates have not changed much! Rubbish then and not much better today

Consider this – joining the EU was considered the right decision once upon a time.

In 2015 some of the Pension Reforms were sweeping and very generous, but not all. A huge positive from the reform allowed defined contribution pension schemes (such as personal pensions, SIPP and group pensions), to become more generational and be able to be passed down to beneficiaries after the death of the member. This could be their spouse, children or anyone else, whether connected or not to the member. Adding this extra feature encouraged further saving into a pension but, as an unintended consequence, also a reason not to draw from the accrued pension plan which was effectively exempt from Inheritance Tax and could be inherited by others.

From my dining room in 2009, to an office in Heanor, back to Belper and now to the present location, much has changed including the greyness of my hair and the size of my waistline! Now as a team of 8 we have seen the client base expand over the years. ‘Generous’ successive Chancellors introduce new legislation impacting the public and signposting the need for financial advice.

This created a complete change of culture towards pensions. Indeed, we saw pension investors defer drawing anything from their pensions and instead draw retirement income (where practical), from other sources such as their other non-pension savings (e.g. cash deposits, ISAs, or Investment Bonds), which ironically were mostly part of the Estate for Inheritance Tax purposes and still are. Reduce and spend the IHT taxable assets and defer the non-IHT taxable assets such as pension funds. Seemed to make great sense.

What about you – what has changed in your lives over the last 10 years? How many jobs have you had? Has your family extended or tragedy struck? How many times have you moved house? How many pension schemes have you been a member of and simply left, through one reason or another? How many cars, partners and other life events have occurred?

How many investments have you made and when were they last reviewed and looked at? My point is

Come April 2027, the pensions will form part of the Estate again. This has placed a great challenge to those who previously deferred their pension citing no reason

that the need for financial advice and a solution should not be seen as a one-off. Financial products and solutions were probably right at the time, but just how much has changed since their inception?

to draw their pension prior to this date. As a reminder, Inheritance Tax is paid on an Estate exceeding £325,000 for a single person but this could be increased by up to £175,000 if there is a family home of at least £175,000 if the deceased had a child to pass the home to. Anything above £500,000 is potentially taxable at 40%.

Investment funds (whether held in pension wrappers or alternative structures such as Stocks and Shares ISAs), are mostly run by fund managers who are also human beings. As humans they may retire, defect to other companies, or run out of luck! Solutions that may have been right at the start may no longer be suitable or effective. Leading fund managers in 2009 may no longer be leading fund managers as we approach 2020.

So, intergenerational planning has been turned on its head once again and certainly will be post-April 2027 as things stand. IHT mitigation is not easy. It is avoidable with careful planning but perhaps not with a pension fund itself. Funds taken from a pension are also likely to be taxed heavily for the pensioner in their own lifetime. Typically, 25% of the fund is tax-free for income tax purposes but the remainder is subject to income tax at the highest marginal rate which could mean as high as 45%.

In April 2015, pension regulations changed. They will almost certainly change again. Pensions from prior to this time may no longer be suitable – but just how would you know? So, as you sit munching your turkey over the festive period, consider how many of these questions apply to you and see what may benefit from having a review.

Is 2020 the time to take a look at your financial arrangements once again and get them fit for purpose?

As matters stand it will be difficult to do anything with a pension fund to avoid IHT after 2027. So, there has to be an acceptance that tax on income from a pension (if at basic rate of 20% or potentially 40% if higher rate) is the same or less than potential 40% IHT on the fund at time of demise of the pensioner. Worse still, the fund (if the pensioner dies post-75) is also taxable as an income if paid to an individual too at their highest marginal rate. A double whammy.

Wishing you a happy 2020 and a prosperous next 10 years.

Is it time to start to plan? Time for financial

advice again?

By Kevin Glover, Belper IFS

This information is general only and is not intended to address your particular requirements. The data above should not be relied upon in its entirety and shall not be deemed to be or constitute advice. No individual or company should act upon such information without receiving appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of their particular situation.

Glover, Belper IFS

This information is general only and is not intended to address your particular requirements The data above should not be relied upon in its entirety and shall not be deemed to be or constitute advice No individual or company should act upon such information without receiving appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of their particular situation

No matter your reason for movingwhether downsizing, expanding for a growing family, starting anew after a relationship change, or selling a loved one’s home - our conveyancing experts are here to help.

Trust us to prioritise your property every step of the way.

Call a member of the team on 01332 226 158 or scan the QR code for more information.

Lifestyle

Blah Blah Blah Day: Your Excuse to Get Things Done

April the 17th is Blah Blah Blah Day. The one day a year specifically designed for tackling those tasks you’ve been endlessly ignoring. You know the ones – ‘Don’t forget to pay that bill! Remember to take those library books back! When are you going to fix that?’ (Or maybe that’s just me.)

Created by Wellcat Holidays in 2006, Blah Blah Blah Day is your annual chance to silence those nagging voices. Maybe it’s family nagging, maybe it’s friends, or (as in my case) your own inner voice.

The idea is simple: take on a task you’ve been putting off and just get it done.

Go ahead and commit to crossing something off your list. You’ll feel accomplished, productive, and it might even inspire you to complete more.

Here are some (super exciting) options:

• Clean the fridge (that fridge slime can’t stay there forever)

• Sew that hole in your jeans (stop saying ‘darn it’, and get it darned)

• Hoover the house (it does need doing sometimes, you know)

Just a Thought... The Agony of Choice

Do you find yourself overwhelmed by choice sometimes? I know I certainly do. Whether it’s which slot to choose for the online shop, which TV series to watch or, worse, which of the eleventy billion types of coffee I should order! All of it makes my head swirl and it appears I am not alone.

I read an article that describes the decision paralysis which occurs when we have too much choice. It’s happening more and more, and it isn’t good for our mental health.

Simpler times were better for us – you know when the biggest decision was whether or not to have sugar in your coffee. Our wellbeing requires a more streamlined approach to choice – between 2 - 3 options is apparently best. This allows us freedom of choice but reduces the overwhelm.

The article, though, was heavily focused on bemoaning the detrimental effects of too much choice and while

• Start those books you’ve been meaning to read (or at least one of them!)

• Cancel those random subscriptions draining your bank account (bet you forgot!)

If the thought of actually doing these things makes you want to say “blah, blah, blah”, try these handy (and tested) tricks:

1. Set a timer for 5 minutes. Just do a tiny bit. Once you start, you might actually finish.

2. Blast out some music (90s dance tunes always work for me), a podcast, or listen to an audiobook (maybe that one you’ve been meaning to read?)

3. Bribe yourself with treats like chocolate and wine –it works for kids, right? (Well, maybe not the wine…)

Sometimes, what seems insurmountable actually takes just a few minutes. That pile of paperwork? Maybe 10 minutes. Cleaning the fridge? Less than 15. Okay, your taxes might take a bit longer – but let’s not ruin the day thinking about that.

If all else fails, fully lean into the day’s true spirit. Procrastinate with confidence! Proudly declare, “Blah blah blah, not today!” and put it off for another time. There’s always next April, right?

By Jessica White

I fully understand the issue, I feel we must embrace a very startling fact – we are privileged to have this ailment to begin with. We need not look too far to see poverty, injustice and inequality in our communities.

From folks relying on foodbanks, to migrants forced out of their homes due to a war they never asked to be part of, we can see what having little to no choice looks like.

So, it is with this in mind that I propose taking a moderate stance. Yes, we need to simplify where we can, we certainly need to be more confident in the choices we do make and stop second guessing ourselves, but we also need to apply some appreciation and gratitude if we are in a situation where we are afforded options.

I wonder what choices you’ll be faced with today, dear reader, and how they may make you feel? In the time it’s taken me to write this my drink-in, medium, extra shot, oat milk latte has gone cold – how blessed I am!

By Fliss Goldsmith of Belper

INSTANT CASH WATCHES,

JEWELLERY, GOLD

Arts at The Folly

Arts at The Folly is a popular local event held every May at The Folly (Main Road, Lea DE4 5GJ). This year’s event runs on the 16th, 17th and 18th May, 10am until 4pm, and there will be five artists exhibiting their work, who will all be present to chat about their work, techniques and provide demonstrations.

Frances Daunt - Frances is an award-winning animal artist working in a variety of media. Her work ranges from huge paintings to smaller pieces in pastels, encompassing both world-wide and domestic wildlife. She also creates her very popular map art, with birds and animals painted onto vintage maps. www.francesdaunt.com

Kate Beinder - “I have been exhibiting at Arts at the Folly since it began, in various incarnations! Yet again, I have had a change of direction and returned to my love of painting, using mixed media, to create a different style of art…at least it is different for me! So many techniques and ideas to explore!”

Silver Silkie - Jane designs and makes jewellery using fine silver, sterling silver and 24k gold, all hand made in her home workshop in Derbyshire. She likes to use textures and contrast, working with ancient techniques including her favourite – Keum Boo, the Korean practice of fusing

Pets

Zoom in on Zoonosis

It’s rare for humans to get sick from their animal companions – but it can and does happen, and is known as zoonosis. Here are some illnesses which can be transmitted from pets to humans:

Rabies: A contagious viral disease that can be spread through bites or scratches from infected animals, notably dogs and bats.

Ringworm: A fungal infection that can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected animal, an object or surfaces that an infected animal or person has touched.

Toxoplasmosis: A common infection caused by a parasite in the poo of infected cats. Usually harmless, it can cause serious problems if you are pregnant or have a weakened immune system.

Salmonella: Pets, especially reptiles and birds, can carry salmonellosis. Humans can pick it up after touching contaminated food or surfaces.

24K gold to silver. www.silversilkie.co.uk.

Lynn Hazel - Lynn is well known both in Derbyshire and further afield for her beautiful British wildlife sculptures, from magnificent eagles to tiny sleepy dormice. Her work is always popular wherever she exhibits, it’s a real treat to be able to include her at ‘Arts at The Folly’.

Jyoti Hawley - Jyoti is an award-winning designer and creator of decorative fused glass artwork, homeware and jewellery. She’ll be joining Arts at The Folly for the first time. She believes in beautiful design and careful execution while allowing natural variations to enhance the finished piece. Every finished piece is one of a kind. www.craftyglassstudio.co.uk.

Homemade refreshments will be available, including vegan and gluten-free cakes. The Folly is just a five-minute walk away from Lea Gardens which will be at its stunning best in May. Arts at The Folly is a great place to visit whilst enjoying a Derbyshire day out! For further information, contact Frances (francesdaunt@btinternet.com) or visit: www.facebook.com/artsatthefolly.

Psittacosis (parrot fever): A bacterial infection that humans can get from infected birds (such as parrots, budgies, cockatiels, ducks and hens). Humans usually get psittacosis from breathing in dust containing droppings, feathers or secretions from infected birds. It typically causes flu-like symptoms and can lead to pneumonia.

Campylobacter: A bacterial infection often associated with birds and livestock but which is also carried by dogs and cats. In humans, it causes diarrhoea, stomach-ache and fever.

Practising good hygiene, such as washing hands after handling pets, keeping their living areas clean and ensuring they are regularly checked by a vet, can help reduce the risk of transmission.

BELPER’S BEST KEPT SECRET!

TUCKED AWAY IN A QUIET COURTYARD OPPOSITE BELPER’S MARKET PLACE, AUDREY’S AT THE COURTYARD IS A LOVELY NEW ADDITION TO THE TOWN’S FOOD SCENE! WE’RE OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY, 9AM – 3.30PM, SERVING A RANGE OF BREAKFASTS FROM FULL ENGLISH TO CONTINENTAL OR BREAKFAST ROLLS, LUNCHES INCLUDING HOM EMADE QUICHES, SOUP, SALADS, JACKET POTATOES AND PANINIS, HOMEMADE SCONES, CAKES AND OTHER TREATS. ENJOY FRESHLY GROUND COFFEES, A RANGE OF TEAS, COLD DRINKS OR AL COHOLIC BEVERAGES & A WARM WELCOME FROM OUR FRIENDLY TEAM. EAT IN OR TAKEAWAY. DOG S WELCOME!

Why not start the day a really special way with a sparkling Prosecco breakfast? Or celebrate a special occasion with a sparkling Afternoon Tea?

(Sparkling breakfast available daily, pre-booking required for Afternoon Tea)

Find us hidden in the courtyard between prestige and fresh bite, opposite the market place, Belper: Audrey’s at the Courtyard, 8 Market Place, Belper. Tel: 01773 473648

Check our facebook & Instagram pages for news of special menus & evening events – search ‘Audrey’s at the courtyard'

HERE ARE SOME EXCELLENT REASONS FOR ADVERTISING WITH ‘ALL THINGS LOC AL’

®

• We are totally independent – not part of a franchise & not associated with any other publication, so we’re not governed by ‘corporate’ rules

• We have over 40 years’ experience in advertising, so you can put your trust in us to get your advert right

• We live in the area where we distribute so we know the area and its people well

• We keep our overheads low which keeps the cost of advertising low

• We love what we do and genuinely care about getting you results

STAY IN OUR NEST AND WE’LL HELP YOUR BUSINESS TO FLY

For more information: Call Ruth Brown on 07545 261034 Email: Ruth@allthingslocal.co.uk Web: www.allthingslocal.co.uk

Food, Drink & Entertainment

Recipe

Tofu Scramble: Give Tofu a Go!

If you’ve never tried tofu before, this is a yummy way of cooking it. And, as you can use many different types of vegetables, herbs and spices, this is just one suggestion for springtime, when asparagus is abundant at farmers’ markets.

Serves: 2-3

Preparation time: 10-15 minutes

Cooking time: 10-15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 150g fresh shiitake mushrooms

• 4 tbsp olive oil

• 125g onions, peeled and sliced into thin half-moons

• 1/2 tsp sea salt

• 80g trimmed asparagus, sliced diagonally at the bottom (if using wild asparagus, then only use the soft tops)

• 2 tbsp tamari

• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric

• 300g fresh tofu, mashed with a fork

• 4 tbsp water, if necessary

• 1 tsp dark sesame oil

• 1/2 tsp dried basil or 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil

• Crushed black pepper

To serve (optional)

• Salad

• Toasted homemade bread

Cut the mushrooms in half lengthways, then cut into thinner wedges. Add the olive oil, onions and salt to a wok or frying pan and sauté over a medium heat briefly, stirring energetically to prevent sticking.

Add the mushrooms, asparagus, tamari and turmeric and continue stirring with 2 wooden spoons. When the mushrooms have soaked up a bit of tamari, turn up the heat, add the tofu and stir for another 1-2 minutes. The scramble should be uniformly yellow in colour. At this point, you can add the water to make the scramble juicy and continue cooking for a couple more minutes. However, whether you need water or not depends on how soft your tofu was to begin with – softer types are moist and don’t need any water at the end of cooking.

Mix in the dark sesame oil and basil, season with pepper and serve warm with a nice salad and a few slices of toasted homemade bread, if liked.

Recipe extracted from ‘My Vegan Kitchen’ by Dunja Gulin, published by Ryland Peters & Small, price £16.99, with photography by William Reavell © Ryland Peters & Small.

NEW RESTAURANT NOW OPEN

Farmhouse Kitchen - our brand new restaurant at Horsley Lodge offering a warm and relaxed dining experience is now open! Whether you ’ re joining us for a hearty breakfast, a delicious pub classic, a sizzling steak, or one of our signature wood fired pizzas, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

New breakfast menu served 7am-11am followed by our main menu daily (including children's menu). Our new Sunday lunch menu is available alongside our main menu every Sunday.

Booking advised

Food, Drink & Entertainment

Beer: Brewed in Belper

Crich Brew Co. is local a microbrewery in Belper, dedicated to crafting small-batch, hop-forward beers. I recently sampled some of their fantastic brews, and these three stood out:

Hoppy Little Accidents, a New England IPA, pours a hazy golden hue with a smooth, thick body that enhances its juicy character. Double dryhopped with Krush, Nectaron, and Strata, it bursts with tropical fruit notes, candied mango and ripe pineapple, balanced by a hoppy, citrusy bitterness and a touch of earthy pine resin.

For a more traditional option, Mill Town Pale delivers easy-drinking refreshment with its crisp, cask-conditioned character. At 4.2% ABV, this English Pale Ale is lightly dry-hopped with Azacca and Solero, lending a subtle fruitiness to its clean, balanced profile.

Word on Wine

During a recent trip to the local Co-op store I found an interesting wine which formed part of a series of wines made from unusual grapes and locations.

This wine was made with the Mauzac grape from the Cote du Tarn region of Southern France. It is No. 4 in the ‘Discovery Series’ of ‘The Hidden Vine’ wines, made by Off-Piste wines for the Co-op group, to showcase unusual wines. Branding, image, labelling and packaging is by Jodie Newman Designs. The wines are not overpriced so are easily available to all Co-op customers.

Other wines in the series are No.1 Vinho Blanco, Portugal, No.2 Mazuelo, Spain, No.3 Primitivo, Macedonia and No.5 Braucol, France.

The Mauzac grapes are mainly found in the Gaillac and Limoux regions of South-west France. The Tarn River runs through the deep valley of the Cote du Tarn through the centre of Gaillac, to the north of Toulouse, with ancient villages on each side. The origin of the Mauzac grape is unknown, but it is thought that it has been produced in this area for at least 2000 years. Originally the grapes were picked in late Autumn but recently they have been picking the grapes earlier to retain the acid levels, so that they can be used in local sparkling wines made by the traditional ‘Méthode Gaillacoise’. However, the wine on the shelf is an easy drinking still white wine.

Finally, Stand IPA, named after Crich’s iconic memorial tower, offers a seamless blend of classic and modern brewing styles. This American-style IPA combines a smooth, slightly sweet malt base with vibrant Citra and Simcoe hops, producing bold tropical fruit flavours and a refreshingly crisp finish.

Crich Brew Co.’s beers are well worth a try for any local beer lover! Visit crichbrew.co.uk for more information.

By Sean McKeown

Twitter/X and Instagram: @belperbeerclub

Technical Details:

Grape: 100% Mauzac - 2023 vintage.

Appearance: Clean clear white wine

Characteristics: Bursting with fruit notes of crisp apple and pear, with a smooth finish and subtle hint of nuttiness.

Alcohol by Volume: 11%

Food Match: Any fish dishes, goat’s cheese and salads with a light drizzle of light olive oil. Available from: Co-op stores throughout the country, £7.95 per bottle.

For more information about the other wines in the series visit your local store or https://www.coop.co.uk.

If you like wine and would like to learn more, please visit our website www.kilburnwinecircle.weebly.com for our 2025 programme.

By David Savidge, Kilburn Wine Circle

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Strictly by appointment only. All measures possible will be taken to protect the safety of our patients with the guidelines provided.

Fitness Matters

The Benefits of Boxing for Fitness Across Different Age Groups

Boxing for fitness has become increasingly popular, offering a full body workout combining cardiovascular endurance, strength training, coordination and mental resilience. This dynamic, engaging workout is adaptable to various fitness levels and age groups.

Young Adults

For young adults and working professionals, boxing provides a way to stay in shape while managing the stress of daily life. High-intensity boxing workouts burn a significant number of calories, making it excellent for weight management and cardiovascular health. It works multiple muscle groups, leading to increased strength and endurance. Beyond the physical benefits, boxing is also a great stress reliever. Many working adults face high levels of stress and anxiety, and the act of punching a bag or pads helps release built-up tension.

Middle-Aged Individuals

As people enter their 40s and 50s, maintaining an active lifestyle through activities which improve cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength and bone density becomes even more critical. Boxing’s adaptability makes it ideal as participants can modify intensity levels, focus on technique, and engage in non-contact drills for safety.

Hatton Boxing For Fitness. Mixed classes held in Ripley

A fantastic class to help get you fit while having fun!

Suitable for all fitness levels

Tues & Thurs at 7.30pm Booking is essential as places are limited

We now offer personalised One-to-One Boxing Fitness Sessions with Andy, an experienced amateur boxer and certified Hatton Boxing for Fitness Elite instructor

Additionally, boxing promotes cognitive health. The need for quick decision-making, coordination, and reaction time exercises the brain as much as the body. Studies have shown that activities requiring complex movements and strategy can help delay cognitive decline, making boxing a great long-term fitness choice for body and mind.

Menopause and Older Adults

For women going through menopause, boxing offers unique benefits. Hormonal changes can lead to decreased bone density, muscle loss, and increased fat accumulation, particularly around the abdomen. Boxing provides weight-bearing exercise that helps combat these issues, strengthening bones and muscles while boosting metabolism. Fluctuating hormone levels during menopause can also increase the risk of mood swings, anxiety, and depression. Boxing is an excellent way to manage these symptoms, as it releases endorphins – natural mood boosters that help combat stress and improve mental wellbeing. Additionally, boxing workouts often incorporate strength training, which helps counteract age-related muscle loss and supports overall longevity.

Boxing is a versatile and highly beneficial fitness activity, promoting cardiovascular health, strength, coordination, and mental resilience while offering an engaging and empowering workout experience. Whether for stress relief, weight management, cognitive benefits, or combatting age-related physical decline, boxing is a powerful tool for improving overall health at any stage of life.

By Alex Robinson

Level 4 Personal Trainer with additional qualifications in GP referrals – Pre- & post-natal exercise. Personal Trainer for over 15 years, supporting and helping people to meet their goals in fitness and lifestyle changes, from losing weight to running marathons. 01773 512410 • 07817 337861

ARR - Personal Training

‘If you have been thinking about improving your fitness or want to lose weight, I can help’.

• I have been a Personal Trainer for over 20 years, supporting and helping people to meet their goals in fitness and lifestyle changes, from losing weight to running marathons.

• Over the years I have competed in various amateur sports to a high standard, including 24 hour endurance running to cross training events.

• I am a Level 4 Personal Trainer with additional qualifications in GP referrals - Pre & post natal exercise Master Trainer in corrective exercise Hatton Boxing for Fitness - Boxercise Master Trainer

• Level 4 obesity and diabetes specialist

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Health, Beauty & Fitness

Derbyshire Walking:

Three Shires Head from Danebower Hollow

Distance: 4.5 miles / 7.3 km

Ascent: 700 feet / 212 metres

Time: 3 hours

Grade: Easy

Author: Lou Johnson

Map: Ordnance Survey Explorer OL24; Anquet

OS Explorer OL24

Start: Small parking area, A54 near Danebower Hollow (grid ref SK008699)

Starting from a small parking area beside the A54 near Danebower Hollow on the A54 Congleton to Buxton Road (grid ref SK008699), this Peak District walk is at the point where the three counties of Derbyshire, Staffordshire and Cheshire meet. It uses sections of once-important packhorse routes as well as other paths. The walk also passes quarries where you can still see remnants of their production from many years ago. Route finding is generally good although a 1:25000 map is an asset as there are many paths (some ill-defined) that can cause confusion.

The Route

1. After parking, descend down either a path beside the wall or a steeper path closer to the old chimney. At the bottom you turn left along the Dane Valley Way (the main valley path). This leads through the spoil heaps of Danebower Quarries.

2. Follow the clear path as it drops down to cross a stream. The path then climbs and weaves its way through Reeve-edge Quarries. The track contours across the western flank of the hillside continuing above Blackclough. Stay on the main track as it enters a side valley and continues towards Orchard Farm.

3. Leave the track before the farm, following the Dane Valley Way as it descends to a minor road (grid ref. SK019687). Turn right along this lane continuing downhill to reach a stream in the valley bottom.

4. Cross the stream and continue on the main track heading southwest (with the stream to your left). This leads you to Three Shires Head and Pannier’s Pool. Note the pair of attractive packhorse bridges over the infant River Dane and its tributary.

5. Do not cross the bridge over the Dane, instead turn left over the smaller bridge following the river downstream. This sandy track divides (grid ref. SK009682) where you keep right eventually crossing the River Dane on the approach to Knar.

6. After a short climb up to Knar, take the footpath on your right. This leads across two fields to join a track, which you follow through open country back to Three Shires Head.

7. The onward route does not cross the bridge but follows the Dane Valley Walk north with the river to your right. Initially a track, the way ahead soon becomes a path leading below the farm at Holt to return to the path junction encountered within minutes of leaving the start.

8. Turn left here and it’s a short walk uphill following the wall (on your left) to the parking area.

Walk supplied by Walking Britain (no. 1652). For GPS file or other walks visit www.walkingbritain.co.uk.

It is advisable to carry the relevant OS map when walking the route, and wear appropriate clothing/ footwear. The publisher accepts no responsibility for any injuries caused to readers whilst following the walk

local friendly garage Est.

8am - 5pm Mon - Fri 4b Old Hall Mills Business Park, Alfreton Road, Little Eaton DE21 5EJ T: 01332 830996

Just complete the Sudoku grid above, cut out and post to Sudoku Competition, All Things Local, 74 Woodhouse Road, Kilburn, Belper, Derbyshire DE56 0NA. Closing date Wednesday 9th April 2025. Remember to include a piece of paper with your name, address and contact telephone number. The winner will be notified by telephone initially. Entrants must be aged 18 or over. All entries are destroyed after the closing date and no information is given to any third party.

Motoring

Reduce Your Electric Bill

Electric vehicles can make a sound secondhand buy. We steer you towards the best ones.

Price is one of the biggest stumbling blocks in new electric vehicles, making them a tougher choice for many drivers. But in the used market, EVs are commonplace and can often be found for some budget-busting prices.

Which ones should you consider?

Porsche Taycan

Porsche’s first mass produced electric car – the Taycan – is excellent to drive, with intuitive handling and some serious performance, regardless of model.

Depreciation has made it an appealing used buy. In fact, some early-model Taycans – built around 2021 – are available for under £40,000, which is remarkable considering prices for a new model start from £86,500. Expect a 280-mile range for a used example.

Skoda Enyaq

The Enyaq is spacious –with ample seating for five people and a large boot. Models branded with an ‘X’ gain allwheel-drive.

At present, you can find a small-battery Enyaq for less than £15,000, while a larger battery ‘80’ version – which unlocks a range of around 330 miles – can be bought for under £17,000.

Volkswagen e-Up!

If you’re after a car for shorter journeys, then the e-Up! is ideal. It offers a range of around 159 miles on later models. Currently, you can purchase a secondhand e-Up! for under £6,500.

Hyundai Ioniq

The battery-powered Ioniq is a practical hatchback and used examples don’t cost the earth. You can get higher-mileage versions for around £8,000, though £10,000 is enough for one with average mileage and a range of around 193 miles.

Mercedes EQC

The EQC arrived as a premium-feeling SUV with a good-sized boot and plenty of on-board technology. Its range of up to 255 miles isn’t bad either.

Having been quite expensive when launched, early versions are now available for some tempting prices. Around £22,000 is enough for a reasonable mileage car, while £25,000 will drop that mileage and throw in extra features.

Jaguar I-Pace

The electric I-Pace was one of the first premium battery-powered SUVs. Thanks to its futuristic styling and equally cutting-edge interior, the I-Pace still looks fresh today.

You can pick up a higher-mileage I-Pace for the surprisingly low price of under £15,500, including a full leather interior. Increase that budget to £18,500 for a very low-mileage version with more equipment.

Fiat 500 Electric

The 500 has always been the ‘go-to’ around-town car and the nippy acceleration of its electric motor makes it even better suited to urban environments.

They’re good value on the used market. Smaller-battery versions – which have a range of around 100 miles – can be picked up for about £10,000, though we’d recommend spending around £12,500 for a larger-battery, longer-range version.

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Short Story

The Runaround

Excuse me, is this your car?” Barron asked the silver-haired lady leaving the opticians laden with a large parcel. “It just so happens that I’m looking for a reliable runaround for my daughter.”

“Lucky girl!” The lady smiled warmly, putting the parcel on the back seat. “Would you like to have a look at it at some time?”

Barron had been strolling down the high street when he noticed the ‘For Sale’ sign taped to the bonnet.

He’d bought and sold enough motors to know the asking price was a fraction of what this car was worth. “How about now?” He didn’t actually have a daughter but knew all the tricks to get his hands on a bargain.

“Is there anything wrong with it?” he asked suspiciously. The car seemed immaculate inside and out.

“I have to be honest,” the lady grimaced, “it does have one very annoying fault. It makes a dreadful beeping sound when I’m driving,” she said apologetically. “Have you taken it back to the dealership?” He frowned.

“They said there’s nothing wrong with it.” She shrugged. “They said the only way to stop it beeping is to put my seatbelt on.”

Barron rubbed his chin. “I might be willing to overlook it if the price is right.”

“Perhaps a test drive would help?” she suggested optimistically.

“Are you free now?” Barron pounced. “How about I drive you home and we can go over the paperwork?”

“I suppose so!” The lady seemed surprised. “If you’re genuinely interested?”

“Perfect!” Indeed, it did seem almost too perfect. With a great display of chivalry, Barron helped the lady into the passenger seat.

He adjusted the mirror and turned on the ignition. The engine purred like a kitten.

“Seatbelts on!” he said cordially. “Before the car starts beeping.”

“Very wise,” the lady said. “It really is most annoying.” “I’ll get my man to look at it,” he said, and pulled away. “Though I imagine it will be costly to fix. Where are we heading?”

“I live at the end of Barrow Common,” she said. “Do you know it?”

“I’m sure I can find it,” Barron said. The ten-minute drive was most enjoyable as he contemplated how he was going to knock a few more pounds off the asking price.

“What do you think?” the lady asked, as they pulled up outside her house. “Would she like it?”

Barron was about to agree that his imaginary daughter would like it, when he noticed a young man coming out of the house.

“Mum, you’ve done it again, haven’t you?” the man said. “You can’t keep conning people into driving you home.”

“But I’ve taken my driving glasses in for repair,” the lady said, retrieving her parcel from the back seat. “How else was I going to get this home?”

“What?” Barron was taken aback. “So, isn’t the car for sale after all?”

“Sorry mate,” the man said, “she’s given you the runaround.”

“Thank you for the lift, very kind.” She smiled. “There’s a bus stop just up the road.”

By Jackie Brewster

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Book Reviews Stress Busters

To mark Stress Awareness Month in April, reach for a read to boost wellbeing.

When the Body Says No: The Cost of Hidden Stress by Gabor Maté

Drawing on scientific research and his own acclaimed clinical work, Dr Maté provides the answers to questions about the mind-body link in this international bestseller. He reveals the role stress and our emotional makeup play in common conditions such as arthritis, cancer, diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome and heart disease. Case studies include Betty Ford (breast cancer), Ronald Reagan (Alzheimer’s) and Lance Armstrong (testicular cancer).

Nature’s Remedies for Stress and Fatigue by Jo Dunbar

Stress can lead to devastating long-term illnesses such as adrenal fatigue, chronic fatigue syndrome and, more recently, long Covid. Many people feel burnt out but do not understand how this affects their body or what to do about it. Having helped people for more than 20 years, Jo Dunbar offers a healing approach that involves nutrition, herbs, exercises, meditation and lifestyle changes, without rejecting mainstream medicine out of hand.

Stress Proof: The Ultimate Guide to Living a Stress-Free Life by Dr Mithu Storoni

This practical guide to overcoming stress arms you with the tools you need to improve your mental and physical wellbeing. Each chapter examines a common stress agent and gives simple ways to minimise its harmful effect. Dr Storoni shows that

by strengthening your natural defences, you will keep your mind sharp and your body resilient.

The Stress Less Activity Book by Anna Barnes

Puzzle solving and colouring are two of the best paths to relaxation, so if you’re craving a moment of peace, a distraction from your daily worries – and the satisfaction of solving a challenge – this is the ideal collection of activities, all designed to shift your focus and reclaim your calm. Discover over 100 dot-to-dots, Sudoku puzzles, crosswords, mazes, word ladders, spot the difference, colouring pages and more.

The Little Book of Mindfulness by Tiddy Rowan Mindfulness is an increasingly popular discipline for alleviating the symptoms of stress, as well as bringing calm and contentment. A practitioner herself for more than 30 years, Tiddy Rowan has collated over 150 tips, techniques, exercises and guided meditations that will enable people to follow the breath, still the mind and relax the body.

Help Your Child Deal with Stress –and Thrive by Dr Stuart Shanker with Teresa Barker

There are many sources of stress for your child – from exam pressure, pressure exerted online or in the playground, or related to health, with a lack of sleep and anxiety at home being contributing factors. Dr Shanker argues that by teaching children the art of self-regulation, you can transform their behaviour and help them identify, talk about and manage their emotions. In turn, youngsters will develop the confidence, skills and emotional strength needed to navigate the modern world.

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Gardening Name That Plant...

Why do we often refer to plants by their botanical, Latin name, rather than their common name? The answer is very simple. It means that wherever you are in the world, the botanical name for a plant will be the same.

Take the lily, for example. Many plants commonly referred to as lilies are not from the genus Lilium. The African lily is actually Agapanthus, and it is related to garlic, the snowdrop and the daffodil. A water lily is a member of Nymphaea, an aquatic genus of plants in the family Nymphaeaceae. Peace lily is a tropical houseplant which belongs to the genus Spathiphyllum, meaning ‘spathe-leaf’ in Latin. The plantain lily is actually a Hosta, a day lily is a Hemerocallis and Peruvian lilies are Alstroemeria. Latin names are essential if we are to converse accurately about plants.

Aiming for clarity

The way that plants are named (nomenclature) is relatively simple. They are grouped into the framework of family, genus and species.

The name that appears on the label – for example, Carpinus betulus (hornbeam) – will generally consist of two words, the genus and the species. The genus comes first and starts with a capital letter. All plants in the same genus will share characteristics as they have a common ancestor. In this case, they are members of the birch family, Betulaceae. The species, which starts with a lower-case letter, is an individual member

of the genus; there could be several thousand species in one genus. Carpinus japonica is the Japanese hornbeam, a different species.

Each additional word on a plant label can tell you more about the individual plant itself.

Terminology explained

The natural progression of improved knowledge, ideas and understanding results in an ever-changing succession of linguistic terms. Here are just a few:

Perennial: A non-woody plant that is expected to live for more than two years.

Biennial: A non-woody plant that produces green growth during the first year, then flowers during the second year, before dying down. Biennials often leave viable seeds.

Annual: Normally a non-hardy flowering plant that lives only for one warm season.

Shrub: A woody plant that doesn’t die down to ground level in winter. It usually has several stems.

Subshrub: A low-growing shrub, such as lavender, rosemary and small heathers, with woody stems.

Top Grafted: Often refers to a certain species of tree or shrub that has been grafted onto a longer stem. Pollination group: Fruiting plants such as apple trees require pollination from other apple trees in the same group, in order to produce viable fruit.

Self-fertile: Certain types of fruit trees do not need another tree nearby to achieve successful pollination. Insects pollinate the tree using its own flowers.

Triploid: A fruit tree of this type needs two compatible partners for complete pollination.

By Caroline Knight

An Asiatic lily is a true Lilium by name

Digitalis, known as foxglove, is a biennial plant

Parenting Bringing a Pet into Your Family

Pets can bring a lot of fun, laughter and comfort to a child’s life. Elizabeth Kilbey, from Channel 4’s Secret Life of 4 Year Olds, says: “Research from BMC Psychiatry has revealed that interacting or simply being in the presence of animals has a soothing effect on children, reducing their heart rate and skin temperature. Spending time with furry friends, and stroking, cuddling and caring for them, can release comforting endorphins.”

All animals need care and attention, but some require more than others. Birds, for instance, need to have their cages cleaned out once a week and their food and water changed daily. Dogs need at least one walk a day (often more), and most don’t like to be left alone for more than four hours at a time.

The age of your children will play a big part in choosing the right pet for your family. A big, boisterous puppy could easily knock a toddler over, for example, and won’t take kindly to having its tail pulled, and some breeds of hamster are too small and fast for young children to handle.

You’ll need to factor in the cost of food, any regular medications, pet insurance, potential vet’s bills and accessories such as cat litter and toys. Depending on your circumstances and the type of animal you choose, there may also be other costs involved, such as paid dog-walking services or cattery costs.

Once you’ve decided what type of animal you want, you’ll need to find the pet that’s right for you. Rescue centres are a good first port of call, as they should be able to tell you what age group a pet can live with, whether it’s house-trained, how long it can be left alone for, and so on.

If you’re planning to buy a puppy, it’s sensible to choose a breeder that’s registered with the Kennel Club, as they have to adhere to strict ethical and health criteria. Less reputable breeders don’t always provide the level of healthcare they should, which means you could end up with large vet’s bills in the future.

If you’re not able to care for a pet full-time, you could look at ‘borrowing’ one for walks and play. It’s worth asking around to see if any of your neighbours need some extra help. Or check out The Cinnamon Trust (www.cinnamon.org.uk), a charity for older people, the terminally ill and their pets, which puts volunteer dog walkers and pet carers in touch with pet owners who need support. There’s also Borrow My Doggy (www.borrowmydoggy.com), which connects dog walkers and pet sitters with pet owners. Lots of animal rescues also need people to foster pets long or short term.

Find out more

www.pdsa.org.uk has an easy guide to choosing the right animal for your circumstances, and advice on a range of pets, from chickens to horses.

www.rspca.org.uk has advice on everything from settling a new pet into a home to coping with any behaviour issues.

www.dogstrust.org.uk has lots of downloadable factsheets, including a leaflet that helps parents to keep their children safe around dogs.

www.thekennelclub.org.uk has advice about choosing a puppy and a list of all registered breeders.

By Kate Duggan

School Information

Ambergate Primary School 01773 852204

Anthony Gell School 01629 825577

Belper Long Row Primary 01773 823319

Belper School 01773 825281

Breadsall CofE VE Primary School 01332 831328

Codnor Community Primary School 01773 742537

C of E Controlled

Denby Free C of E Primary 01332 880416

Ecclesbourne School 01332 840645

Fritchley CE (Aided) Primary 01773 852216

Heage Primary School 01773 852188

Heanor Gate Science College 01773 716396

Herbert Strutt Primary 01773 822771

Holbrook C of E Primary 01332 880277

Horsley C of E Primary 01332 880782

Horsley Woodhouse Primary 01332 880403

John Flamsteed Community School 01332 880260

Kilburn Infant & Nursery School 01332 880449

Kilburn Junior 01332 880540

Langley Mill (CE) Controlled Infant

School & Nursery 01773 713429

Little Eaton Primary 01332 831471

Mapperley CofE Primary School 0115 9325386

Meadows Primary 01332 840305

Milford Primary 01332 841316

Morley Primary 01332 831295

Pottery Primary 01773 823383

Richardson Endowed Primary School 01332 880317

Ripley Junior School 01773 742281

Scargill CE Primary, West Hallam 0115 9320005

St Andrew’s C of E Primary School 0115 9324252

St Benedict 01332 557032

St Elizabeth’s Catholic Primary 01773 822278

St John’s CE Primary, Belper 01773 822995

Stanley Common Primary School 0115 9322437

Street Lane Primary 01773 742717

Swanwick Hall School 01773 602106

Turnditch CE VA Primary 01773 550304

William Gilbert Primary 01332 840395

School Terms 2025/2026

Term 4: Monday 24 February 2025 to Friday 4 April 2025

Term 5: Tuesday 22 April 2025 to Friday 23 May 2025

Term 6: Monday 2 June 2025 to Thursday 24 July 2025

Term 1: Thursday 4 September 2025 to Friday 24 October 2025

Term 2: Monday 3 November 2025 to Friday 19 December 2025

Term 3: Monday 5 January 2026 to Friday 13 February 2026

What kind of bee can’t make up its mind? A maybe. Where do bees keep their savings? In a honey box.

Why do bees hum?

Because they can’t remember the words.

The Diary of a Local Mum

What’s in a Name?

The quote ‘What’s in a name?’ is a line from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet and it is interpreted to mean that a name is just a label – it doesn’t define a person’s worth or their essence.

But, that said, choosing your child’s name is a huge decision and one that parents often agonise (and argue) over for months before baby’s arrival … and often afterwards, too!

Naming someone feels like a huge responsibility. That name will, hopefully, stay with them for life (unless they decide to change it). Their name has got to work for all ages – it needs to suit them as a baby and work for an OAP, too. You need to try it out in various scenarios: can you imagine their mates calling it when they’re teenagers? How would it look written on an exam certificate? Would they be proud to introduce themselves with it in a job interview? Could you hear it being read aloud in a wedding ceremony?

Can you shorten it – and what does the abbreviated version sound like? Perhaps you like the full version of the name, but the abbreviation sets your teeth on edge. Or vice versa – you might love the shortened nickname, but the full moniker feels a bit much? There’s a lot to consider!

And then, of course, you have to try it out with your surname. There could be a name you’ve always loved but, matched with your surname, it just doesn’t work – ‘Annette’ doesn’t go so well with the surname ‘Curtain’, for example. You’re setting them up for a lifetime of teasing. My mum genuinely went to school with an Eider Down. Try all the initials together before you commit to names, too, to avoid any accidental initial embarrassment! ‘Lucy Olivia Lenton’ may have

to put up with a lot of ‘LOLs’ throughout her life (and that joke will very quickly get old!).

Despite what Shakespeare wrote about a name not defining you, certain names do carry strong associations and therefore may lead to presuppositions about a child’s character or interests. If you name your child ‘Beyonce’ and she ends up being tone deaf and unable to hit a single note ... well, that’s going to be hard to live down.

Names can mean something personal or sentimental too – you may want to name your child after a relative or ancestor in the family … but again, that’s not without its complications. Who do you choose and how do you avoid offending other people whose names you’ve not chosen! Honestly, the whole naming thing is a minefield!

Of course, there are also middle names to consider … and here may be the opportunity to ‘hide’ a name or two that you feel compelled to feature but don’t want to give centre stage to. But it’s worth making sure they’re not too embarrassing – there may come a time when those names are displayed for all to see, and your teen may never forgive you when their ‘secret’ middle name is outed in front of the whole school in assembly one day.

You also need to think about whether the name’s going to cause a headache for your child throughout their life. Will they be constantly explaining to people how it’s pronounced, or having to spell it? That clearly isn’t something that troubled Elon Musk when he named his son ‘X Æ A-12’. I wonder what Shakespeare would have made of that one?

By Helen Young

Community

Local History

Something From Strutts: Volunteering

Like many others I waited until I retired before taking on the role of volunteer and I chose the Strutts Community Centre because it had played such a major role in my education and subsequent career.

People volunteer at Strutts for various reasons: some are former pupils, some are interested in community-based activities and others like the varied experience and the opportunity to meet people and make friends. The old school building, though still in need of ongoing attention, is a well-used and versatile space where people regularly meet to take part in a varied range of activities.

Pat McLeod, whose responsibilities include Volunteer Recruitment and Support, explained to me how, owing to the fact that there are no paid employees, voluntary assistance is vital to the smooth running of the centre on a daily basis. Necessary tasks can be tailored to the needs of individuals’ time and interests; some jobs require regular commitment while others are connected to specific events taking place at the centre. Typically, anyone interested in helping would be invited to meet up with Pat for an informal chat about their areas of interest or expertise.

I spoke to some volunteers about their experiences. Irene Hunt told me that since beginning gardening at Strutts early last year she then became a member of the catering team and has really enjoyed the opportunities to see how her contribution has been of benefit to the project. She said, ‘We moved to Belper five years ago and would often admire the building as we passed by. It is a beautiful building to work in and I have made many new contacts. It is one of the best decisions I have taken!’

Margaret Groom told me that she came to Strutts for an event and felt an immediate connection to the building. She says she doesn’t really mind what she does, whether it is hedge-cutting or preparing food; she just likes being part of the team.

Volunteers have opportunities to socialise on the Community Centre premises by attending regular coffee mornings and the annual Christmas Party.

I spoke to many people who have made lasting friendships whilst volunteering. Gill Betts says she enjoys working at Reception as it is an opportunity to engage with a range of visitors, while Julian Bentley has found he enjoys working behind the bar as it is a new experience for him.

Strutts welcomes people of all abilities from all backgrounds; training is given when needed and all help is greatly appreciated. Anyone interested should contact volunteers@strutts.org.uk for more information, or to arrange an informal meeting.

By Joan Hardy Strutts Society Committee www.strutts.org.uk

Pictured: Irene, Margaret and Gill, Strutts volunteers.

Friendship Blooms

‘Say it with flowers’ and spread some happiness within the community! Let All Things Local help you to put a smile on the face of someone who truly deserves it.

Perhaps a friend or family member is always there for you through thick and thin, or someone in a local business always goes above and beyond to provide an exceptional service. There could be a volunteer who doesn’t realise how much their support is valued … or, maybe, someone you know has had a tough time and deserves a floral ‘pick me up’.

Whatever the reason, let All Things Local help you to show your appreciation by surprising them with a beautiful bouquet supplied by Rachael Collins (pictured) from Fleur Florist of King Street, Belper.

This issue, we’re delighted to present the Friendship Blooms bouquet to Kath Lamb, who runs ‘The Munday Club’ in Kilburn. Kath was nominated by Carol Steadman on behalf of all of the club members. Here’s what Carol wrote:

“I would like to nominate Kath Lamb for the bouquet of flowers please. Last year was another brilliant year of ‘The Munday Club’ which Kath runs at Kilburn Village Hall. We all want to say a big “thank you” to Kath for the outings; including theatre trips and meals, as well as a fantastic Christmas party. Love from all of your members. Well done Kath!” Carol Steadman

Do you know someone who deserves a bouquet?

Send in your nomination and let us surprise them! Simply state (in 100 words or fewer) who you are nominating and why you’d like them to receive the Friendship Blooms bouquet. Please include your contact details as well as their name and address (or where we can find them!). You can nominate more than one person if they are living/ working at the same address… and, remember, flowers don’t just have to be for women! Please note, the only rule is that the person receiving the flowers must live/ work/volunteer within the distribution area of All Things Local (see front cover for details).

Send your nomination by post to: Friendship Blooms, All Things Local, 74 Woodhouse Road, Kilburn, Belper, Derbyshire DE56 0NA or e-mail it to karyn@allthingslocal.co.uk, putting ‘Friendship Blooms’ as the subject. Please include your full name, address and daytime telephone number on your nomination.

Closing date for nominations for the next issue is Wednesday 16 April 2025.

All nominations are kept on file and you will be contacted if your nomination has been selected. Contact information is only used by All Things Local; no information is given to any third party.

Advertiser Information

Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advert.

All artwork is accepted on the strict condition that permission has been given for use in the publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. All Things Local does not officially endorse any advertising/editorial material included within the publication.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form – electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise – without the prior consent of the publisher.

Advertiser’s details (other than those provided for inclusion in advertisements) are confidential and will not be given to any third party.

Publisher: All Things Local Limited, 74 Woodhouse Road, Kilburn, Belper, Derbyshire DE56 0NA T: 01332 882882

M: 07977 272770 E: karyn@allthingslocal.co.uk

W: www.allthingslocal.co.uk

Graphic Design: Digital Bear Design

Printer: Buxton Press Ltd

Deadlines for June/July 2025 Edition: Advertisement Bookings, Editorials, Cancellations and Copy Amendments: Wednesday 16th April 2025

New Advertiser Copy: Monday 21st April 2025

Rachael Collins from Fleur Florist

Kath Lamb (left) receives the Friendship Blooms bouquet from Carol Steadman presented on behalf of all members of ‘The Munday Club’.

Community

Upbeat: BikeSafe

Nothing beats the feeling of freedom, the rush of joy and the calmness that riding brings.

Bikers want to feel that joy, no matter where they go. We all aim to limit the panic, avoid those close calls, and improve the craft we love.

We know the pull that riding a bike can bring, especially when you live on the doorstep to the beautiful Peak District, with roads which are a magnet to those on two wheels.

But in Derbyshire, unfortunately we also see the risk that motorbike riding can bring. Last year, 13 bikers lost their lives on Derbyshire roads, with a high proportion of these being on High Peak roads, on sunny bank holiday weekends, in avoidable collisions caused by riders who misread the situation.

In 2023, bikers made up less that 1% of all UK road traffic, but unfortunately, represented 19% of all fatalities.

Our Police Biker Team are passionate about keeping bikers safe, which is why they run BikeSafe workshops throughout the biking season.

At a workshop, you’ll be shown the skills you need to read the road and improve your knowledge, followed by an observed ride where a police biker will follow you through Derbyshire’s stunning landscape. Afterwards, they’ll give you feedback on how to improve your skill and provide pointers on what you can do next to become the best of your ability.

Our police riders are advanced motorcyclists who undergo extensive training to ride police bikes, their training is some of the most intensive seen, and they are regularly involved in police operations which require them to be switched on to their environment. They’re the ones who attend incidents involving bikes and see first-hand the effects of bikers making the wrong decisions. That’s why they’re ready to share some of their top tips and experiences with you. It’s not a formal training programme, but a workshop built by bikers, delivered by bikers, for bikers.

Find out more about BikeSafe, and book onto a workshop at: www.bikesafe.co.uk.

Community Diary April/May 2025

April:

1st: Arts Society Derby lecture: “Wilde about Oscar: Famous for being Famous (and Infamous)” by Simon Whitehouse. 7.15pm (doors 6.30pm) at Landau Forte College, Fox St, Derby DE1 2LF. Cost £6 for non-members/guests. Info: www.theartssocietyderby.com.

12th: Belper Organ and Keyboard Club concert: Pete Shaw (50 years on stage). 2pm, Congregational Church, Church Walk, Belper DE56 1DB. £10 admission. www.belperorganclub.com.

22nd: Belper Book Group, The Queens Head pub, Chesterfield Road, DE56 1FF. April’s book: The Summer Book by Tove Jansonn. Enquiries: cdaly874@gmail.com. 24th: Belper Book Club: Chimamanda by Ngozi Adichie. 7-9pm at No.28 Market Place, Belper DE56 1FZ. £2 entry, BYO refreshments/snacks. Supported by Dormouse Books. Enquiries/booking: jennifer.c.allsopp@gmail.com.

27th: Table-top/Indoor Car Boot Sale. 10-11.30am, Breadsall Memorial Hall, Brookside Road, Breadsall DE21 5LF. Admission £1. Light refreshments £1. Cash only please. 29th: Arts Society Derby lecture: “Gustav Holst - The Planets and Beyond” by Roger Askew. 7.15pm (doors 6.30pm) at Landau Forte College, Fox St, Derby DE1 2LF. Cost £6 for non-members/guests. Info: www.theartssocietyderby.com.

May:

5th: Belper Central Methodist Church 10.30am - 4.30pm. Stalls inside & out. Refreshments available. 8th: Language Soirée, 7-9pm at No.28 Market Place, Belper DE56 1FZ. Conversation in a different language at each table. BYO drinks & nibbles. All languages welcome. £6 on the door (£3 u18). Native speakers free! Info: twentyeightbelper@btinternet.com.

10th: Belper Organ and Keyboard Club concert: Andrew Nix. 2pm, Congregational Church, Church Walk, Belper DE56 1DB. £10 admission. Refreshments available. www.belperorganclub.com.

16th, 17th, 18th: Arts at The Folly, The Folly, Main Road, Lea DE4 5GJ. 10am - 4pm. Five artists exhibiting, demonstrations, refreshments. All welcome. www.facebook. com/artsatthefolly.

17th: St Matthew’s Church, Morley, Annual Church Garden Party on the croquet lawn, adjacent to the church, 2pm (in church if wet). Stalls, raffles & refreshments. Admission Free. All welcome!

17th: Spring Market at Christ Church, Belper DE56 1BA. Stalls including crafts, plants & cakes. Prize draw & refreshments. Free entry, all welcome. Stalls £10 & £15. Contact Alison: 07741 455352.

23rd: 28 Laughs Stand Up Comedy: Nina Gilligan. 7.30 for 8pm, No.28 Market Place Belper DE56 1FZ. £11 entry – book online at www.wegottickets.com. BYO drinks. 27th: Belper Book Group, The Queens Head pub, Chesterfield Road, DE56 1FF. May’s book: To The Lighthouse by Virginia Woolf. Enquiries: cdaly874@gmail.com. 29th: Belper Book Club: Pachinko by Min Jin Lee. 7-9pm at No.28 Market Place, Belper DE56 1FZ. £2 entry, BYO refreshments/snacks. Supported by Dormouse Books. Enquiries/booking: jennifer.c.allsopp@gmail.com

Please check events with the venue/organiser as the publisher accepts no responsibility if events are changed/cancelled following publication. If you have a one-off event or special excursion for June / July 2025 please email it to helen@allthingslocal.co.uk. Deadline is Wednesday 16th April 25.

Our Heanor Funeral Home, located just off Ray Street, serves families throughout a wide area.

1a Abbott Street, Heanor DE75 7QD Tel (24 hrs):01773 713921

Our other Funeral Homes: 154 Nottingham Rd, Eastwood NG16 3GG

Eastwood Selston 133 Nottingham Rd, Selston NG16 6BT

Tel (24 hrs): 01773 713484

Tel (24 hrs): 01773 306909

Kimberley

The Old Church, Main St, Kimberley NG16 2LL

Tel (24 hrs): 0115 938 6720 Stapleford 136 Derby Rd

Tel (24 hrs): 0115 949 1534