The Lancashire & North West Magazine | December 2023

December 2023

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19 The Wine Bar A glimpse into Kendal’s oldest wine bar

Orme Galleries

Truly a unique art experience in this family-run art gallery and framers

Back Up Charity

Tackling homelessness amongst young people

The Wildlife Trust Bringing wildlife back and empowering people to take meaningful action for nature

Greenlands Farm Village

A look into the Greenlands Farm Village experience

Haffners - Brothers’ dreams prove a recipe for success in East Lancashire

Celebrating 16 years of beautiful living at Pad

L I V I N G • S L E E P I N G • D I N I N G • L I G H T I N G PAD showroom exhibits the best in quality furniture at Affordable Prices. Showcasing beautiful Italian leather sofa’s supplied

by Nicoletti and fabric designs by Calia Italia which show a collection of pure design classics. We offer Bedroom furniture from German manufacturer Nolte, with measurements to suit all customer needs.

Beds can be supplied to any specifications, colour and design with mattresses to suit.

Pad offer a free design service and TV wall system’s can be installed to customer’s specifications.

“At PAD we don’t sell, we offer a stress free and friendly environment to find what you are looking for”

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f facebook.com/PadPoulton www.lancmag.com

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CONTENTS...

46

Features

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204

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The Grand Theatre, Blackpool, announces Aladdin for the Christmas Panto, and brings ballet back in 2024.

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Mark Twain in North-West England by Margaret Brecknell

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A newly discovered artwork at Tatton Park

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Time to help a hedgehog

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Opening doors to opportunities at Stonyhurst College

128 Campaign for a healthier future - extra virgin olive oil as a sixth element of your diet 130 Wind down at 19 The Wine Bar 136 Tackling homelessness amongst young people 140 Maura Jackson, CEO of a Bolton based Homeless Charity bares all to chat about body confidence & menopause 150 Dukes - A Christmas Carol

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Visit Fleetwood Market

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A collection of images from the artist who did the cover of this magazine - E. Anthony Orme.

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Christmas past by Harold Cunliffe

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Disney’s 100 years of wonder by Jodie Brotherton

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Winter wildlife at Brockholes visitor village

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Pride of Britain award winner Tony Hudgell has set himself another awe- inspiring challenge

152 Brothers’ dreams prove a recipe for success in East lancashire 156 Whats on at Dukes, Lancaster 158 Two cancer doctors swapped medicine for music to take part in charity concert 162 The Lancashire big garden birdwatch 164 Volunteers in Lancashire needed to help NSPCC keep school children safe 174 Christmas lights at Dunham Massey 178 Michael Adex announced as winner of inaugural ‘Industry Icon’ Northern music award

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Winter warmer recipes from Cooks & Co and Maldon Salt

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Manchester’s ‘Sham Fight’ by Harold Cunliffe

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We visit Greenlands Farm and enjoy the village experience

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New light Art prize winners announced

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Young Blackpool-born filmmaker lands global film releases

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10 stunning animal photos

201 Pet first aid becomes lifesaver for a seriously injured dog

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John Fury lends his support to a Blackburn & Darwen boxing event

203 Construction progresses smoothly for Kendal’s newest destination development

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Oli France & his mountainous ultimate seven project

204 The public chooses ‘rare’ name for blackpool Zoo’s baby orangutan

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Our Christmas Gift Guides are here again, with the best gifts from our local businesses. From the likes of Cole the Jewellers, Gordon Rigg Garden Centre, Farfield Mill and much more, you are guaranteed to find the perfect presents for your loved ones this Christmas.

205 Redrow take a wellbeing break in Woodford

188 More music in Morecambe announces 2023 season 192 Arty-Barty-Bush by Harold Gosney 196 Quality, respect and the very best care with Elkfield Health Care

206 Lancashire leading ladies top the bill at Blackpool Pleasure Beach pantomime 207 Bolton School pupils help in HellowYellow Fundraiser, and Ruby Spencer, Year 8 gymnast is Milano Champion 208 Gallery stages ‘unbelievable’ exhibition

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LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE

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...CONTENTS Regulars

December 2023 • Volume 46 Number 12

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126

84 Dr Mani 88 David Hatton 76 Plumbs 126 La Locanda 146 - 166 Denise Mullen 148 Life of Di - Diane Wade 170 Aiming Higher 182 Colour Me Beautiful - Sarah Harris 198 HayMax Column - Max Wiseberg 200 Zodiac Predictions by Manish

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December 2023

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Managing Director: Natalie Christopher natalie@lancashiremagazine.co.uk Editorial: 01253 336580 editorial@lancashiremagazine.co.uk

19 The Wine Bar A glimpse into Kendal’s oldest wine bar

Orme Galleries

Sales Enquiries: 07918 685673

Truly a unique art experience in this family-run art gallery and framers

Accounts: 01253 336588

Back Up Charity

Tackling homelessness amongst young people

The Wildlife Trust Bringing wildlife back and empowering people to take meaningful action for nature

Greenlands Farm Village

A look into the Greenlands Farm Village experience

Haffners - Brothers’ dreams prove a recipe for success in East Lancashire

COVER: The snow fight - by E Anthony Orme

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Writers: • Denise Mullen

• Lucy Newton

• Diane Wade

• Max Wiseberg

• Harold Cunliffe

• Miranda Christopher

• Haley Hilton

• Norman Wallis

• Helen Donald

• Paul Cusimano

• Manish Kumar Arora • Rozanne Kay General Enquiries/Subscriptions: • Sarah Harris • Margaret Brecknell Tel • 01253 336588 accounts@lancashiremagazine.co.uk • Lara Besbrode • Sarah Ridgeway The Lancashire & North West Magazine Ltd, Seasiders Way Blackpool, Lancashire FY1 6NZ

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE

• Jodie Brotherton

@lancmag @lancashiremagazine

Visit our website at www.lancmag.com

Note to contributors:- While every care is taken with manuscripts, drawings, photographs and transparencies, no responsibility is accepted during transmission or while in the Editor’s hands. The contents of this magazine are fully protected and nothing may be used or reproduced without permission.

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CHRISTMAS ESCAPES with a difference...

Make our place your place this Christmas. Join us for a 2 or 3 night break and enjoy a decadent Christmas Day lunch and a tasty food hamper to enjoy on Christmas Day evening.

Prices from £490 per couple, please visit the website to choose your perfect Christmas retreat.

W W W. J A M E S P L A C E S . C O M

In this issue...

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s the days get shorter and the festive season quickly approaches, we bring to you our December edition. Inside we have our traditional gift guides, offering inspiration for your Christmas gift search. We have a collection of gift ideas from Lancashire’s favourite businesses, from the likes of Sarah Layton Jewellers and Honeywell’s Farm Shop, helping you to find an amazing gift for everybody.

We also look at all the fun things to do this Christmas – whether it’s a trip to see Dunham Massey’s illuminated festive trail, helping a hedgehog, or visiting Blackpool’s Christmas By The Sea, Lancashire has got it all.

One of the best things to do this Christmas is to visit Greenlands Farm Village, who, despite being recognised for their family-friendly days out, actually have a lot more on offer than what first meets the eye...

We celebrate Disney’s 100 Years Of Wonder, looking back on the humble beginnings of the company and the fascinating lives of Walt and Roy Disney.

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Above: Christmas at Dunham Massey

In the spirit of giving, we explore the charitable efforts of Aiming Higher and Back Up Charity, who work tirelessly to support those in need, especially during the holiday season.

And we, as always, have our regulars.

There’s a bit of Lancashire history from Harold Cunliffe and Margaret Brecknall, rediscovering the UK with Lancashire author David Hatton, and some winter fashion tips in our Colour Me Beautiful column.

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE

There’s all that and more in our December issue. And as the year begins to come to a

close, we would also like to thank you, our readers, for your continued support. All of us at the Lancashire and North West Magazine wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

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THE RAKE TAPAS RESTAURANT, BAR & BOUTIQUE HOTEL We believe in serving beautiful tapas, with the freshest ingredients from local producers. Our pizza oven creates the most mounth-watering pizza to tantilise your tastebuds. We have a excellent drinks menu, with local ales, mediterranean wines and we’re also quite partial to a G&T. If you’d like to stay with us, we offer four superb rooms with access to a private outdoor area. The Rake is an exceptional place to eat, drink and stay, especially with The Quay Side fish and chips shop located next-door!

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& NORTH WEST MAGAZINE | D theraketapas.co.ukLANCASHIRE | F @theraketapas

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BALLET TO BALLROOM AT BLACKPOOL GRAND IN 2024…

Dance with joy! Beautiful ballet & breath-taking ballroom is back at Blackpool Grand.

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ook now for stunning performances of Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake and The Nutcracker from the critically acclaimed Varna International Ballet & Orchestra in January, followed by a thrilling performance from Strictly Come Dancing champ Giovanni Pernice with his exciting new show Let Me Entertain You in April.

You’ll be spellbound by the enchanting tale of Sleeping Beauty on Friday 12 January. Sleeping Beauty is every child’s favourite fairy tale and is a classic story of love and innocence, mystery and magic, all set to Tchaikovsky’s sublime score. Stunning choreography, sumptuous costumes and wonderful sets form the fantasy world in which the Lilac Fairy struggles against the evil Carabosse to break a wicked curse placed on the beautiful Princess Aurora.

Fly to get your tickets for the greatest romantic ballet of all time! Swan Lake is brought beautifully to life on Saturday 13 January by Tchaikovsky’s haunting and unforgettable score as delicate white swans glide in perfect formation in this compelling tale of tragic romance. The dual role of Odette/Odile is one of ballet’s most unmissable technical challenges. Odile, the temptress in a black tutu seduces the Prince by spinning with captivating precision and perfectly mirrors the spellbound purity of the swan queen, Odette as she flutters with emotional intensity.

Are you loving the sparkling return of Strictly Come Dancing? Gorgeously gifted Strictly favourite Giovanni Pernice will be packing up his famous dance shoes next year for his red hot brand new live show Let Me Entertain You on Sun 7 Apr 2024.

The Strictly champion and BAFTA winner is the epitome of live entertainment and will be joined by a world-class cast of professional dancers and West End performers to bring you an unforgettable experience.

Varna International Ballet & Orchestra present Sleeping Beauty on Fri 12 Jan 2024 at 7.30pm, Swan Lake on Sat 13 Jan at 2.30pm & 7.30pm and The Nutcracker on Sun 14 Jan at 2.30pm & 5.30pm.

Giovanni Pernice – Let Me Entertain You is on Sun 7 Apr at 5pm, VIP meet and greet available.

Book now by visiting blackpoolgrand.co.uk or call the box office on 01253 290 190

Treat the whole family to the magic of The Nutcracker on Sunday 14 January. This most famous of fantasy ballets for all the family begins as night falls on Christmas Eve. As snowflakes fall outside, the warm glow of the open fire sends flickering shadows across the boughs of the Christmas tree and all the presents beneath. When midnight strikes, we are swept away to a fairy-tale world where nothing is quite as it seems. Toy dolls spring to life, the Mouse-king and his mouse-army battle with the Nutcracker Prince and we travel through the Land of Snow to an enchanted place where the magic really begins...

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Take a magic carpet ride and fly to BLACKPOOL GRAND THEATRE for the Christmas pantomime!

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ake a magic carpet ride and fly to Blackpool Grand Theatre for the Christmas pantomime

TV soap sensation and West End favourite Tom Lister (Emmerdale’s Carl King) will star as the wonderfully wicked magician Abanazar in this year’s enchanting tale of magic, mayhem and misunderstandings and he is thrilled to be joining Britain’s Got Talent finalist and panto family favourite Steve Royle live on the Grand Theatre’s famous stage once again. This dream double act will be joined by top stage actor Ben Harlow as Widow Twanky and K-pop superstar Moo Yi Kim as the beautiful Princess Jasmine, along with ever popular stage performers Mervin Norohna as Aladdin, Liam Morris as the Genie, Amy Perry as Spirit of The Ring and Michael Robert-Lowe as the Emperor.

What a treasure trove of top theatre talent!

Tickets are already flying out with some performances from Friday 1 December to Monday 1 January already offering limited availability…

The fabulous family Christmas pantomime at Blackpool’s Grand Theatre is always a laugh-a-minute extravaganza with stunning sets, top musical hits, amazing costumes and exciting special effects to keep audiences both young and old entertained! This year’s Aladdin is truly one festive treat for all the family you won’t want to miss!

Don’t forget – there’s also a ‘Chilled Performance’ (Relaxed) of Aladdin on Thursday 28 December as part of The Grand’s ongoing commitment to accessibility with all tickets at £20.

There’s no need to be worried about making a noise, leaving and returning to your seat or accessing the toilets at any time during this special show, and there will be a chill-out space for patrons who may need a little time away from the fun!

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Aladdin is at Blackpool Grand Theatre from Fri 1 Dec 2023 to Mon 1 Jan 2024 Please call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 or visit www.BlackpoolGrand.co.uk for bookings and further information. Tickets from £15.

Family tickets, group and school rates available.

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Mark Twain in North-West England

By Margaret Brecknell

Mark Twain standing by window in 1907 portrait

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amuel Langhorne Clemens, better known by his pen name of Mark Twain, was one of America’s most influential 19th-century writers, whose novels have been critically acclaimed by such US literary greats as Ernest Hemingway and William Faulkner.

Famous for his witty one-liners, Twain also embarked on huge lecture tours and his many admirers would flock to see him wherever he appeared across the globe including here in North-West England.

Born in November 1835, the young Sam Clemens spent his childhood in the Missouri town of Hannibal. The town is situated next to the Mississippi River and, as a youth, Sam worked as a steamboat pilot. He would later use the area around Hannibal as inspiration for the fictional setting of St Petersburg in two of his most famous novels, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.

Sam wrote from a young age, contributing articles to a local newspaper whilst working there as an apprentice typesetter. It probably helped that the publication was owned by his elder brother, Orion. When Orion left for a new job as the Territorial Secretary of Nevada, Sam followed him west and became involved in a variety of distinctly speculative enterprises including gold and silver mining. Eventually, in 1863, he returned to journalism when he became a reporter for the Territorial Enterprise in Virginia City.

At this juncture he first began to write under the pen name of Mark Twain. The idea for this nom-de-plume came from his days as a steamboat pilot on the Mississippi. The term “mark twain” refers to the safe depth of watertwo fathoms - for steamboats on the river.

Twain’s big breakthrough as a writer came in 1869 with the publication of The Innocents Abroad. Based on a series of articles written for an American newspaper, this humorous travelogue outlines Twain’s experiences on board the USS Quaker City during a five-month “pleasure excursion” around Europe and the Holy Land. A forerunner of the modern cruise, this type of holiday was still very much in its infancy at the time and Twain’s humorous take on his fellow passengers and events on board ship proved a bestseller.

By the time that Mark Twain made several highly publicised appearances in London during the late summer of 1872, he had become a household name and was a seasoned public speaker. He returned to the UK the following summer, this time accompanied by his wife, Olivia, and baby daughter, Susy. According to his later autobiography, which was only published posthumously, they travelled widely around www.lancmag.com

Above: Mark Twain in front of his boyhood home in Hannibal, Missouri

During this visit to the UK, Twain also made his first public appearance here in the North-West at the Liverpool Institute.

the UK and met some of the leading British literary celebrities of the day.

During this visit to the UK, Twain also made his first public appearance here in the North-West at the Liverpool Institute. His lecture in Liverpool, entitled Our Fellow Savages of the Sandwich Islands, was based on his experiences in the Sandwich Islands (modern-day Hawaii), to which he had made an extended visit several years previously.

He received a rapturous reception from the sell-out audience at the Liverpool Institute, with one local paper praising his “real wit and sterling wisdom”.

The following day Twain and his family set sail for New York on board the Cunard steamer, the SS Batavia. Fellow novelist, Charles Dickens, was famously unhappy with his voyage to the USA on board a Cunard liner, but Twain only had good things to say on the subject. After one journey, the American remarked: “The Cunard people would not take Noah himself as first mate till they had worked him through all the lower grades and tried him for ten years”.

Twain returned to the UK just a couple of months later and appeared again at the Liverpool Institute in early January 1874.

Such was Twain’s popularity that this time he was booked for two successive nights. His performance included a new lecture based LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 11

on his successful 1872 book, Roughing It, in which Twain recalled his experiences as a young man down the mines in the American West. The American wit once described a gold mine as “a long hole with a darned fool at the end of it”.

The US writer is also known to have made at least one visit to Manchester, although there are no records to suggest that he performed publicly there. Twain appears to have been underwhelmed by the place to say the least, commenting subsequently: “I would like to live in Manchester, England. The transition between Manchester and death would be unnoticeable”. Harsh as this criticism sounds, it is only fair to explain that the transformation of Manchester during the 19th century from a small market town into a huge industrial metropolis, driven by the rapid growth of the cotton industry, had let to overcrowding and pollution on a scale that is barely imaginable today. The Manchester of the late 19th century was a very different proposition to the presentday city.

In addition to his lucrative lecture tours, Twain wrote his most famous novels over the course of the 1870s and 1880s including The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, The Prince and the Pauper, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court. With this kind of output, he clearly did not pursue the policy advocated in one of his most famous one-liners: “Do not put off until tomorrow what can be put off till the dayafter-tomorrow just as well”. Yet, despite this particularly productive spell as a writer and speaker, he found himself in increasingly deep financial trouble.

Amid mounting dissatisfaction with his publishers, Twain decided, in 1884, to establish his own publishing business.

Charles L Webster and Company was named in honour of his fellow investor, who also happened to be his niece’s husband. One early release based on the personal memoirs of former US President, Ulysses S Grant, proved so popular with readers that Grant’s widow received a then record royalty payment

The Manchester of the late 19th century was a very different proposition to the presentday city

The Liverpool Institute. Courtesy of “Rept0n1x/CC BY-SA 2.0”

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The main purpose of his visit was to receive in person an honorary degree conferred upon him by the University of Oxford

of $200,000 from Charles L Webster and Company. Unfortunately, Twain’s publishing firm found itself unable to replicate this early success. Twain’s own books sold well, but, because of poor sales elsewhere, he was compelled to plough his royalties back into the business.

The writer also invested heavily in new technology. One particularly disappointing product proved to be James Paige’s automated typesetting machine, an invention which promised much but delivered little. Eventually, in 1894, Twain’s publishing business failed, leaving him deeply in debt and he was compelled to declare himself bankrupt.

Little wonder, then, that the US humourist subsequently remarked: “There are two times in a man’s life when he should not speculate: when he can’t afford it and when he can”.

Now in his 60th year, Twain was compelled to embark on an epic global lecture tour as a solution to his money problems. For the next www.lancmag.com

Above: Mark Twain after receiving his degree from Oxford University

few years, he travelled all over the world, using the profits generated from the tour to pay off his debts. During this time Twain and his wife, Olivia, spent several months in England at a residence they rented in Chelsea, but the usually gregarious couple rarely ventured out as they were mourning the recent loss of their beloved daughter, Susy.

Twain returned to the UK for one final time in the summer of 1907. The main purpose of his visit was to receive in person an honorary degree conferred upon him by the University of Oxford. By now, he was a 72-year-old widower in poor health, but he still attracted plenty of attention when he attended a Royal Garden Party at Windsor Castle, hosted by the then King, Edward VII, and his wife, Queen Alexandra. “Both the King and Queen appeared greatly to enjoy their conversation with Mark Twain”, reported one newspaper, “and more than once they laughed heartily at some humorous remark”.

On the eve of his return home to the States, a special banquet was organised in Twain’s honour at Liverpool Town Hall.

Unfortunately, the principal guest was too fatigued by the journey north to attend the dinner itself, but did make an appearance after the meal to be toasted by the assembled guests. Twain seemed in good spirits as he made a characteristic speech, provoking huge gales of laughter with a series of his trademark humorous anecdotes.

This proved to be Twain’s final speech on this side of the Atlantic. Less than three years later, on 21st April 1910, the US literary great died peacefully at his mansion, Stormfield, in Redding, Connecticut.

A year previously, Twain had foretold the time of his death with uncanny accuracy, predicting: “I came in with Halley’s Comet in 1835; it’s coming again next year and I expect to go out with it…The Almighty has said, no doubt: ‘Now here are these two unaccountable freaks; they came in together, they must go out together’.” As Twain had predicted, Halley’s Comet made its closest appearance to the sun in nearly 75 years just a day before his passing.

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See the portrait on display in the Mansion this Autumn

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Newly discovered artwork at Tatton Park: Portrait of a Tyrolese Lady Recent research by Xavier Salomon, Deputy Director and Chief Curator of the Frick Collection, New York has resulted in an artwork from the Tatton Park collection being confirmed as being by the renowned Venetian artist Rosalba Carriera.

The ‘Queen of Pastel’

Born in Venice, at a time when being an artist was frowned upon and difficult for women. Rosalba became one of the most popular and sought after artists. From her beginnings as a painter of scenes for snuff box lids, she moved on to portrait miniatures and then became integral in popularising the use of pastels. She was an initiator of the Rococo style and is remembered as one of the most successful women artists of any era.

Her talent meant she was in-demand in the Royal Courts and by the ‘Grand Tour’ tourists flocking to Venice. Her works were sometimes considered risqué due to the delicate lace coverings, depicted on the subjects clothing only just saving their modesty. Many of her works were exported via Joseph Smith, the renowned art trader and collector, who became ambassador to Venice, promotor of Canaletto and who Samuel Egerton (of Tatton) served as an apprentice from 1729 to 1734.

Left: Conservation in action - Portrait of a Tyrolese Lady

With the conservation work now completed the painting will be on display in the Mansion from 27th September. Visitors can see the painting this year before the Mansion closes for winter conservation from 29 October 2023, and National Trust members can enjoy free Mansion entry with a valid membership.

Below: Santini hidden in the back of the painting

A hidden gem

Rosalba sent exported works with hidden ‘santini’ - printed prayers or blessings for a safe passage, tucked into the back of the frames.

Over time these fragile bits of paper often became lost or separated from her works. The discovery of one still in situ at Tatton was an exciting find for teams at Tatton Park.

Works in pastel are very delicate and this one is no exception. It required some conservation work to stabilise the surface and a refit into its frame, as well as the frame itself needing some attention.

You can see the detailed work of the painting’s restoration on Tatton Park’s Instagram channel.

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Help a hedgehog The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside is asking people to record hedgehog sightings to ‘Help a Hog’ this autumn.

Hedgehog populations have been declining in the UK, but our gardens could provide a refuge. Rural populations of hedgehogs have declined by 30-75 per cent in different areas of our countryside, however the urban hedgehog population is showing signs of stabilising.

By recording where we have (or just as importantly haven’t) seen a hedgehog we can build up a vital picture of how the hedgehog population is faring across our region. With gardens becoming some of the most important habitats for hedgehogs in the UK, getting this information will allow the wildlife trust to understand where conservation work needs to be targeted.

Alan Wright, Communications and Campaigns Manager for The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside, said: “We are asking everyone to go onto our website and fill in our simple ‘Hedgehog Hotspot’ form – and that’s whether you have seen a hedgehog, or if you haven’t. It only takes a minute or two and this information will be passed onto our local environmental records centres, allowing us to build up both a regional and national picture of how these beloved garden visitors are doing.”

Hedgehogs can travel over one mile each night looking for food

Above: Hedgehogs by Jon Hawkins Surrey Hills Photography

and mates, and with the decline in hedgerows and their natural food of insects and invertebrates in rural areas, our gardens can provide an essential haven. There are a few simple steps that we can all take to help support our wonderful Mr and Mrs Tiggywinkles, and there’s lots of information available in the Wildlife Trust’s free ‘Help a Hog’ guide.

Above: Hedgehogs are one of our most beloved garden visitors by Gillian Day

The Lancashire Wildlife Trust The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside is dedicated to the protection and promotion of the wildlife in Lancashire, seven boroughs of Greater Manchester and four of Merseyside, all lying north of the River Mersey. It manages around 40 nature reserves and 20 Local Nature Reserves covering acres of woodland, wetland, upland and meadow. The Trust has 30,000 members, and over 1,200 volunteers.

To become a member of the Trust go to the website at www.lancswt.org.uk or call 01772 324129.

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Hedgehogs make homes and find food in fallen leaves

by Tom Marshall

Make a hedgehog highway – no one garden is big enough to support a hedgehog so making small 13 x 13cm holes (the size of a cd) in the base of fences or walls will allow hedgehogs to travel around safely.

Encourage insects – leaving a wild area, not cutting back vegetation over winter, and going chemical free will encourage lots of lovely insects into your garden which are hedgehogs’ favourite food. Not using herbicides on your lawn will also encourage lots of earthworms.

Create a hedgehog home – a simple piles of logs in a quiet corner of your garden can make the perfect home for hedgehogs during their daytime naps or to hibernate in. You could even go the whole hog and build a special hedgehog house.

Make your pond safe – hedgehogs are great swimmers, but need a shallow slope to get out of water if they fall in. Add a ramp or pile of stones to ponds to allow easy access for hedgehogs and lots of other garden visitors.

Be careful with bonfires – a lovely pile of wood makes an inviting home for a hedgehog, so either only build your bonfire on the day you intend to burn it or move it before burning to avoid hedgehogs meeting a grizzly end. www.lancmag.com

Above: Making log or habitat piles can provide homes for hedgehogs by Jenny Bennion

Below: Shallow slopes or ramps into garden ponds provide a safe drinking place for hedgehogs by Penny Dixie

The recent trend of a stabilisation in urban hedgehog populations shows just how important local and individual actions are.

Just taking a few small steps can really make a difference.

You can ‘Help a hog’ and record your sightings or absences at lancswt.org.uk/hedgehog-hotspots-2023 LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 17

Flexible Futures - Opening Doors To Diverse, Global Opportunities As many young people now embark on new A level ventures, others have begun the International Baccalaureate Programme, which is a great option for those looking to unlock top-tier opportunities both domestically and globally.

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tonyhurst College is the only Catholic IB school in the UK, home to a community of 26 pupil nationalities and many more through alumni from across the world. The school has held IB World School status since 2012 and offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBDP) as a popular alternative to A levels, evidenced by 40% of the current Sixth Form cohort studying the programme.

Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak’s, recent announcement about the benefits of a broader baccalaureatestyle education has further elevated the profile and the benefits of the IB to the UK market. Compared to the 18

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UK’s typical three subject A level national curriculum, the IB provides a broader and more rewarding syllabus by choosing a greater range of subjects. It is certainly an exciting time to be considering the IB Programme, particularly for those who have a desire to be in the best position to succeed in the global workplace.

The Director of IB at Stonyhurst, Deborah Kirkby, is a huge advocate of the programme’s versatility in empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their future. “Keeping options open is always a sensible choice for those uncertain about their career path. www.lancmag.com

By not specialising too early or committing to a career pathway at 16, pupils retain the flexibility to pivot and explore diverse career opportunities as they become confident in a range of disciplines, and this approach is hugely beneficial in allowing them to adapt to changing job markets and emerging industries. This also comes with qualities from a well-rounded education that are highly valued by employers, such as critical thinking, problem-solving and adaptability.

“While A levels continue to have an established place in our Sixth Form provision, the IB, which is currently offered in more than 150 countries, acts a global passport and opens up the world to our pupils. We find that the IB is a great qualification, not just for those who are planning on applying to UK universities and workplaces, but also for those who are considering work or further study outside of the UK when they leave us. Many of these international institutions are well-known for their extremely competitive entry processes and the IB’s academic rigour is an excellent preparation for these courses.”

The International Baccalaureate Organisation reinforces this credibility by stating that the IBDP is recognised and respected by the world’s leading universities, such as Harvard, MIT and Stanford.

Evidence suggests that the skills developed in the Diploma, which at Stonyhurst is modelled on university-style learning, sees students thrive in Higher Education, having already had experience of project-style assessments, managing www.lancmag.com

multiple deadlines, engaging in critical thinking, and conducting their own academic research through the compulsory Extended Essay component.

Having consistently performed above the world average, Stonyhurst IB graduates have gone on to study at a range of prestigious universities in the UK as well as across Europe, the US and Canada. Subjects studied reflect the breadth of education with an IB curriculum, and have varied from Medicine, Law and Engineering, to Philosophy, Politics and Economics, Psychology and Film Studies. This all draws from the IB programme that encompasses six academic subjects across a full, structured six-day-aweek timetable, including subjects not available at A level such as Environmental systems and societies and Global Politics.

“IB pupils relish the fact that they can study a wide range of engaging subjects rather than narrowing their choices down,” adds Deborah.

“This broadness is also reflected in the programme’s international perspective, encouraging pupils to think globally and understand diverse cultures. This awareness is vital in our increasingly interconnected world, promoting tolerance and open-mindedness, and ultimately developing young people who are knowledgeable, caring and want to create a better world through intercultural understanding and respect. This aligns remarkably well with Stonyhurst’s Jesuit mission of learning and development of the whole person.”

The school is recruiting for the IBDP for September 2024, with limited places available. IB pupils will be joining a very welcoming and diverse community, located in the heart of the stunning Ribble Valley and boasting a wide range of over 75 extracurricular activities.

“The IB programmes are unique qualifications for the 21st century.

They are intended to create global citizens, to empower students with the skills and knowledge that they

can apply anywhere in the world, for jobs that maybe don’t even exist yet. We like to think of our pupils as agents of change and we are very excited about the future of the IB programme at Stonyhurst.”

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 19

Visit Fleetwood Market, an award-winning

traditional market in Fleetwood on the Fylde Coast.

From gourmet street food to the freshest fruit and vegetables, finely crafted jewellery to designer clothing, bargain household goods to hand-made gifts and haberdashery – you’ll find it all and more at Fleetwood Market.

W

ith over 250 stalls to browse and five individual areas to explore, this beautiful, huge Victorian Market has something for everyone to discover and is one of the largest and most popular Markets in the North West of England. Located in the beautiful, historic town of Fleetwood, right beside the seaside and filled from top to bottom with terrific stalls, amazing products and friendly stallholders.

If you’re looking to re-fuel throughout the day there are plenty of options to choose from including 3 eateries, all with seating, offering a delicious selection of both hot and cold food. Or visit the outdoor market area with a plethora of tasty offerings including vegan and vegetarian options!

There is also Market House Studios to explore with commercial gallery space, an accessible studio, community studios and even a dedicated Gallery in the Main Hall to enjoy some beautiful professional artworks… with the opportunity to purchase the sophisticated artworks too.

This year Fleetwood Market has gone through an exciting period of rejuvenation with a £3.2 million investment to carry out significant improvement works.

As part of Wyre Council’s ambition to achieve net zero carbon emissions, grant funding of £1

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million has been secured by the council from the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, allowing energy efficiency works at the market to be carried out, including the installation of renewable energy technologies and removing fossil fuel gas heating.

Wyre Council has also invested over £2 million to carry out repairs and reinstate the historic features of the nineteenth century Market Hall, partly funded by the High Streets Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) grant sourced from central government via Historic England (HE).

The Market is fully accessible, welcomes well-behaved dogs on leads and with regular free events, entertainment, exhibitions, and community activities there’s a day out for everyone to enjoy!

C

ome along and meet Santa himself complete with real reindeer, Christmas crafts and walkabout festive characters to interact with.

From 10am – 4pm on Saturday 9 December. It’s sure to get you into the festive spirit.

Fleetwood Market is located at 26 Adelaide St, Fleetwood FY7 6AD and is open all year round every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 9am – 4.30pm Follow on social media – Facebook – FleetwoodMarket • Instagram - fleetwood_market www.lancmag.com

Extraordinary Beginnings

AGES 3-13

in all areas

Book

Pupils’ communication skills are excellent; they express themselves with great clarity and confidence.

Scan the QR code to book

a private visit

Welcoming children from the term they turn 3 Co-ed 3-13 | Boarding & Day Jesuit, Catholic School

www.stonyhurst.ac.uk/privatevisit

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LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 21

A Collection Of Diverse Images From The Mind Of Artist E.Anthony Orme The original paintings featured in this article have been produced for the forthcoming exhibition at Orme Galleries. The paintings centre on the theme of fantasy and surrealism.

Left: E Anthony Orme With His Front Cover Painting Titled ‘The Snow Fight’

“This oil on canvas takes us back to a time when the winter snow covered the cobbled streets. Although the street lighting was quite poor, we usually gathered round the gas lamp which was always welcoming.”

For the past decade, the Orme Galleries’ multi-talented artist E. Anthony Orme has been responsible for many of the front cover images of the Lancashire & NorthWest magazines. He has recently celebrated his 78th birthday.

He is actively painting and providing new original art pieces for Orme Galleries, from his Manchester studio.

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experimenting with a wide array of styles and techniques to produce a rivalled degree of eclecticism in his work. His work makes you stand in awe.

Visit the gallery and see for yourself!

You can invest in Anthony’s original paintings currently exhibited at the Orme Galleries, or you can commission him to paint a family portrait you’ll be proud of. He paints landscapes, fantasy, figures, nudes, ballerinas, cities, abstract works and more. His nostalgic range is very popular with the public, as it evokes memories of cobbled streets in the 50’s and 60’s. www.lancmag.com

‘Blizzard’ a sister painting to ‘The Snow Fight’

‘The Puppet Master’

“The figures in this oil on canvas seem to be making their way home on a cold winter day, perhaps a hot mug of cocoa at journey’s end.”

“The carnival mask shown here has been hanging in my studio for many years. I decided to use it to produce this surreal painting with the dancing marionettes. I can’t explain why I included the pink wedge at the bottom of the painting, it just seemed right somehow. “

“His work makes you stand in awe” ‘Fragments’ and ‘Shredded’

“These are a pair of oils which seem to suggest an almost animated view of the human form in ascension.”

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‘Time And Time Again’ and ‘Out Of Time

‘Watcher At The Bridge Of Sighs’ and ‘Lord Of Venice’

“These two oil paintings challenge our thoughts on the concept of time as being relentless and unstoppable- there is no such thing as the present.”

“These are a pair of oils which are set in the beautiful and mysterious city of Venice and hopefully give the viewer a chance to make up their own story- step through each of the frames as Alice did through the looking glass.”

“Secret Love” and “Those Who Watch”

“A foray into the field of design which deals with the idea of form in a fasceted and almost stained glass way.”

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www.lancmag.com

‘The Adoration’

“They look at you looking back at them, but don’t stare too long!”

‘Venetian Rhapsody’

“A surreal painting with a dreamlike atmosphere, this painting allows me, as an artist, to couple my knowledge of the individual subjects with my love of ethereal beauty.”

‘Female Rising’

“This strange and enigmatic figure has a tale to tell. Sit, watch and listen.”

“step through each of the frames as Alice did through the looking glass” ‘Gala’

“A medley of images coming together, which allows our eyes to roam across the painting, without the need to linger on any one image- and who doesn’t love a seahorse?”

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‘Oh, What A Tangled Web We Weave’

‘Queen Of Hearts’

‘Tangled’

“A kind of chaotic existence because the more she tugs, the more she becomes tangled up in her fight for the right to survive.”

“A lady with attitude, she seems to say ‘don’t mess with me’ ”

“An oil on canvas, this painting may have a meaning which is deeper than it first appears. Can you work it out?”

‘She Rocks’

‘Here Be Monsters’

‘Hands On’

“The horse jumps out of the sheet of crumpled paper, into a world of keys but no locks- freedom!”

“I really enjoyed painting this piece because of my love of steam locomotives and my desire to paint the absurd and fantastic.”

“A complete but becoming female figure which leaves the viewer with more questions than answers.”

“Orme galleries has been proudly serving Lancashire and beyond with professional fine art services for over 26 years”

Left: ‘Tactical Gambit’

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Right hand page: “I’m hoping that this painting shows my passion to capture the human form with a bit of a twist.”

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Customers can view the new exhibition in our spacious 5000sq ft gallery. The premises, located on retail Park 66 in Bury, are wheelchair and pram friendly and there are plenty of parking spaces, including many disabled parking spaces, directly outside our front door.

“We have plenty of original investment art and prints to choose from, ready to take to your home. It is worth noting that If you’re looking to find an artwork to suit your room’s colour scheme or fit your size requirements, Orme Galleries can custom make it for you. Colour scheme is unique to all of us, just as the art is. Often people say – I like this image, however the colour is not going to go with my house décor, or that the picture size isn’t right for their room or the frame colour is not to their taste. For Orme Galleries, this is no problem! We can digitally change colours of our art prints.

We have an on-site bespoke framing and printing department.

All you have to do is choose the art style, tell us the size of the wall space you want enhancing with unique wall art, and we will create a custom piece, designed by you - for you!”

Orme galleries has been proudly serving Lancashire and beyond with professional fine art services for over 26 years, becoming a prime example of the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of the area. Certified by the Fine Art Trade Guild, the gallery offers an impeccable standard of bespoke picture framing, fine art, limited edition art prints and original artworks by artists E. Anthony Orme, Vlasta Orme and Adéla Orme, as well as mirrors including custom made mirrors, industrial and steampunk furniture, sculptures, giftware, giclée printing services on paper or canvas, artwork photography services and more.

Beginning on Stand Lane in Radcliffe in 1997, director and framer Christopher Orme opened his first art gallery and framers. With the support of the public, the gallery has since grown to become the UK’s largest retail art gallery and framers, now located at retail ‘Park 66’, Pilsworth, Bury, BL9 8RZ, M66 – Junction 3.

We have been voted the UK’s Picture Framing Business of the Year 2016, won Art Business website of the Year 2017, and are a Fine Art Trade Guild certified business.

Orme Galleries director Christopher Orme CGF (APF), is a fully qualified and highly experienced framer. He gained training at the British Museum, and has sat as the North West Branch Master and Director for the Fine Art Trade Guild (150 year old trade organisation which sets worldwide standards in art and framing).

Above: Christopher Orme GCF (APF)

For Orme Galleries social media, please follow @ormegalleries Gallery location: Park 66, Pilsworth, Bury, BL9 8RZ, M66 – Junction 3 Tel: 0161 7669991 www.eanthonyorme.com www.lancmag.com

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 27

Lost carnivores return to Lancashire peatland Carnivorous sundews plants have been reintroduced to Winmarleigh Moss in Lancashire, after habitat destruction caused them to disappear over 100 years ago.

A

s you look out over Winmarleigh Moss near Garstang in Lancashire, you will see tufts of fluffy white headed cotton grass, the purple hue of common heather and if you’re very lucky, the fluttering wings of the rare large heath butterfly. But if you take a closer look at the spongey sphagnum moss covered ground, you will see some old, historic residents have returned home.

Thanks to £30,000 funding from the Lancashire Environment Fund, Whitecroft Lighting and Natural England, Lancashire Wildlife Trust have reintroduced 17,500 missing plants species, including the carnivorous greater sundew and oblong-leaved

sundew, along with bog asphodel and white beak sedge.

It may come as a surprise to many that there are carnivorous plants native to the UK, but in fact we have at least 11 species of these insect eating wonders, most of which inhabit our precious peatlands. However, due to habitat destruction, many of these rarities are now missing from the lands where they once thrived.

And Winmarleigh Moss Site of Special Scientific Interest is no exception.

Subject to historic drainage so that the land could be managed for game bird shooting, the naturally boggy peatland could no longer offer the perfect peaty paradise for these plants, and they eventually died out.

Helen Earnshaw, Lancashire Wildlife Trust Peatlands Programme Project Officer, said: “It is exciting to see bog asphodel, white beak sedge, greater sundew and oblong-leaved sundew back on Winmarleigh Moss, as they have been absent for 100 years. These plants are only found on peatlands, and it is important that we do all we can to ensure that they establish and

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thrive here to add to the biodiversity of the site.”

Bringing these lost plants back is vital to support the varied biodiversity of this rare fragment of lowland peatland, 98% of which has been lost in our region.

White beak sedge has delicate white flowers in early summer which provide a vital nectar source for the locally rare population of large heath butterflies, helping to bolster their numbers and support them to spread to new areas on the moss. Winmarleigh’s butterflies have already served as an important donor population for the successful reintroduction of the species into Greater Manchester, where they had become locally extinct.

However, bringing back lost plant species is not as simple as just popping them into the ground. The first stage was to clear the area of unwanted scrub vegetation as it outcompetes and hinders the growth of our native peatland plants. Once this was cleared, we were able to start getting the plants in the ground. This was done by specialist contractors and volunteers, planting by hand to keep disturbance of the bog to a minimum.

Winmarleigh Moss is also surrounded by a number of other peatlands (Gull Moss, Cockerham Moss and Birch House Farm) which are currently undergoing restoration, and it is hoped that in time the new plants will naturally spread and colonise these areas too.

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST www.lancmag.com MAGAZINE 000

WHAT’S ON BLACKEYED THEATRE IN ASSOCIATION WITH SOUTH HILL PARK PRESENTS

THE 60TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR OF JOAN LITTLEWOODD’S MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT.

“EVERYTHING WE’VE COME TO EXPECT FROM BLACKEYED THEATRE. VISUALLY STUNNING, MUSICALLY BRILLIANT, FABULOUSLY ACTED AND SO INCREDIBLY POIGNANT” ENTERTAINMENT.

FRI 01 TO SAT 02 MAR

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blackpoolgrand.co.uk LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 29

Christmas Past

By Harold Cunliffe

O

ur festive item takes a look at happenings in the run up to Christmas within districts of the Manchester suburbs, from days gone by, as far back as the 1880’s, which was a different period of time with some rather strange attitudes. It is unheard of today for the police to bring a child of a tender age to court; one very young child featured in this article must have been frightened to death of being in front of a magistrate and with the prospect of being birched. Another item dates from 1966 where a resident of a high rise flat was determined to ensure he and his spouse had an entertaining festive period in front of the box. The name of ‘Lees’ has been prominent in Lancashire for generations known for the product produced at the Greengate Brewery which is located at the boundary of Chadderton and Middleton Junction.

The festive period has always been a busy time for this independent brewer. The Greengate Brewery must have been of note, my reason for this comment is that an A4 size slim book was published as part of a collection of albums. The albums were produced by Sir Joseph Causton and Sons, London, entitled ‘Noted Breweries of Great Britain & Ireland. Along the bottom is the title ‘The Greengate Brewery, near Manchester.’ The books are not dated, but as a clue it documents Mr J.W.Lees as Mayor of Middleton, which was the period; 1888 to 1890. I would assume that the

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Above: Alkrington Hall

by Christine Pierce-Jones.

volume I own dates from this period. Original copies of this volume are hard to locate and command a high price when offered for sale. At the time of writing two volumes are offered at an online auction site at £175 and £245 plus postage.

The volumes were reproduced however in 1977 which are a fraction of the price of an original copy and are of a decent quality. The Lees family once lived at the brewery complex, following which they purchased Akrington Hall. What follows is an incident which took place a few days prior to Christmas.

Hazardous Christmas Tree.

“as far back as the 1880’s, which was a different period of time with some rather strange attitudes”

High on the hill as you enter the town of Middleton via Manchester Old Road is Alkrington Hall, which is accessed via an ancient bridge over the river Irk, known as the Lever Bridge. Over 130 years ago the hall was owned by the Lees family as previously stated. So any news which contained this family name was of interest to the community and also the local press. Having their name on public houses and at one period little enamel signs which were once dotted around various towns which depicted a gentleman holding a pint of beer with the slogan, “Mine is a John Willie.” The name of ‘Lees‘ plus an image of a man with a beverage beverage in front of him would instil thoughts of them being owners of a brewery. Mr Edgar Lees was the son of the owners of the hall, Mrs Emma and John www.lancmag.com

Willie, Edgar decided to gain a decent pile of logs to ensure that they would have a cosy fire for the family to gather around at this special period.

Edgar had only arrived home from sea on the 20th December to spend Christmas with his family. An ancient dead tree in the grounds of the hall was in need of removal, and was a perfect specimen to provide the family with well-seasoned timber once cut into logs. Edgar along with his brother and two workmen set to work then Edgar had a bright idea, he decided to use a little of the explosive back powder to make the job easier, to reduce the size of the trunk. Next he poured a quantity of the powder into a hole produced by nature into the centre of the large trunk, a loose fuse was made and lighted, but before Mr Lees could move to a safe location the charge exploded, and he received a portion of he blast and a quantity of splinters to his face. A local doctor attended and the report states, “nothing serious is feared.” Inspecting the local newspapers post-Christmas it seems that Edgar had a lucky escape. No doubt his head suffered a loss facial of hair.

Trouble in Store.

Returning to work after the Christmas holiday and upon entering the office I enquired if everyone, had a good Christmas, where upon a voice was heard to say, “Oh yes, very good, but there was nothing decent on the box.” In which he was referring to the Christmas television listings. I have a feeling that it was during the mid 1950’s when the black and white television set became affordable to rent in that many people enjoyed their festive period around the box. No one I knew ever purchased their own set. One reason was that they tended to break down frequently. A friend of my family actually made his own television by purchasing some form of Ministry surplus oscilloscope, and with him being an ex-military man had the knowledge to converted it to show television pictures on the small screen with a 425 line definition, then in the 1960’s we were enjoying better quality and larger screens via the 625 line sets. It was around this period in time that a 68 year old man, a pensioner who lived in the now demolished high rise flats on the high on the hill at the Langley Overspill Estate, decided to ensure his Christmas viewing was not to be a disappointment that he decided to take direct action and performed a ‘sit in’ at his television dealership because he did not want to be without television programmes over the Christmas period. Mr John McGlore protested at the dealership on Christmas Eve. A member of the local press interviewed the customer, and in www.lancmag.com

“Oh yes, very good, but there was nothing decent on the box.”

Above: 1960’s Televison dealer.

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 31

requesting a comment Mr McGlore stated, “I pay 6/11 a week (Almost 35p today) for an old set that is always conking out.

I want a new set, me and my wife want to enjoy Christmas television, this set is clapped out. They want me to sign a new contract which would cost me ten bob (50p) a week.” The police were called and no update is available. Maybe he was granted his Christmas wish with the press involvement.

Filthy Language, Filthy Person.

Brought before the Police Court one Monday morning on the run up to Christmas 131 years ago was Mr Thomas Keane, who was not that keen on taking a bath. The dirty looking fellow was before the court charged with being drunk and disorderly and was arrested by Police Constable Stables who informed the court that on the previous Sunday evening he was cursing, shouting and swearing, much to the annoyance of the public. P.C. Stables asked him to go home, but he refused. When asked for an explanation of his actions the previous night Keane commented, “I have been locked up in Heywood several times, as many as three times in one week.

I am very bad when I have a drink.” He was questioned by Mr Heap, commented that he was not improving his case by admitting to being a drunk and telling us all that. Because of the awful smell emanating from the prisoner the court was keen to proceed with the case. He was then asked why he took so much drink if he knew it serves him so. Why don’t you keep off it? Inspector McQueen; He has been locked up many times in the towns of Bury and Heywood, he is not properly right. The prisoner commented that he was not locked up at Bury, but at Heywood, “I work for John Kay’s at Hebers (A small hamlet near Heywood) The Chairman, Alderman Thorpe summed up the case; Are you prepared to go back to Heywood? “Yes.” And not come back again for some time?

“Yes.” You will leave the town straight away? “Yes.” We will take a lenient view of your case, and let you off this time.

That Familiar Atmosphere.

It was as the members of the Police Court assembled in their positions in court that they recognised a certain odour, an odour they had been subjected to the previous day in fact.

Thomas Keane, who had only been discharged the previous day was again brought up, and was still in a filthy state, filling the court with a horrible stench. P.C. Stables informed the court that at 9.30 the previous night he saw the prisoner drunk on the main road which leads to Manchester. He was shouting and swearing. When requested to go away he refused.

Questioned by Mr Hesp; You are here again. Keane replied, “I am very sorry. I was going away but I got some drink, I will go away; I may go today. Mr Heap replied; Yes you will, and today. The Chairman, Alderman Thorpe; It is evident you are not fit to keep your promise. You will have to go to prison for fourteen days, or pay 10s 6d and costs. Prisoner, “Will you give me time to pay?” The Bench; No. Thomas was then transported to Strangeways Prison in Manchester where a hot bath and change of attire awaited him.

Butcher in Court.

It was just under two weeks to Christmas when a butcher, Samuel Carter was brought before the court at Royton, Oldham, for allowing 20 head of cattle to stray on the highway.

Police constable Graham informed the court that he had found the cattle straying on the highway at three o’clock in the morning; he put them in a field for safety. Carter’s representative explained that he had paid 13 men to herd between 200 – 300 cows along the highway towards the town 32

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Above: Star Free Teapot offer

“It was just under two weeks to Christmas when a butcher, Samuel Carter was brought before the court at Royton, Oldham, for allowing 20 head of cattle to stray on the highway”. of Middleton, but owing to the thick fog some of the cows got away. Any damage done had been paid for by Mr Carter. The Chairman of the court stated that under the circumstances they would dismiss the case.

White Christmas.

It was a white Christmas during 1892, how should I know that? Children were brought before the court under the offence of ‘Snowballing.’ P.C. Twentyman was on the ball when he spotted a young man named as Anthony Sweeney deliberately throw a snowball in a girl’s face. Also he reported James Baron and H. Hesp for snowballing in a public street. It was stated that the two named along with other children were snowballing and jostling persons in Manchester Old Road.

In court both defendants claimed that they were snowballing each other. The Chairman said, “It you promise not to offend again, the Bench would dismiss the case with a caution.”

Helping Mummy.

Alfred Hill who lived at Twelve Houses, and David Cooper who lived at Foxdenton Lane, Chadderton, which is close to the Greengate Brewery, was before the Police Court for helping themselves to turnips from a farmer’s field, with thoughts of helping mummy with the Christmas vegetables.

Alfred Dearden of Higher Tonge Farm summoned the boys for stealing his turnips, but the Chairman of the Court stated that they did not steal them, they did not leave the field with them, and in fact they damaged the crop. In one drill alone a distance of twenty yards of turnips had been pulled in the quest to find large turnips, the small specimens were discarded. In summing up the Chairman stated, “I can sympathise with the man who has brought these two cases to www.lancmag.com

the court and this practice must stop. In this case the two boys Alfred aged 11 and David, of the tender age of five years will be let off on the payment of costs.

Above left: Star Hamper including free basket

Above: Artist impression of Queen Victoria’s Ostrich

Christmas, ‘Cob Coaling.’

John Gilbert, aged 9 of Foundry Street, Little Park and Thomas Sharp (13) of the same district were charged with stealing 17 lbs of coal to the value of 2d and 12 lbs of coal valued at 1d. Remember that back then there was 240 pennies to the pound. Both boys had used long sticks to dislodge the coal from the horse drawn carts. In court the parents of the boys claimed that they thought that the coal was found in the street, those pieces which had fallen naturally from the carts.

The Chairman said “The boys had become a public nuisance, I had thought of having both lads birched, but if their mothers would promise to take care of them they would simply bind them over in the sum of 20 shillings (£1) each. If they came here again on a similar charge they would “simply get birched.”

Christmas Duck.

I feel that Thomas Glover should have remained in Staffordshire for Christmas instead of coming north for the winter. In passing Little Nook Farm, within the area of Heaton Park, Manchester, he stole a pet duck. Its young owner, Miss Mary Jones had fed her pet fifteen minutes prior to her spotting Glover making his way over the fields with the duck under his coat. P.C. McBride spotted the live duck under his coat and questioned him. In not being able to provide details of the farmer in which he claimed to have purchased the bird from he was taken into custody. In court he was also charged with damaging street gas lamps to the value of 10s. 6d. (Fifty two and a half pence today). After hearing the charges against www.lancmag.com

him he was taken below for other cases to be heard. While he was in the room alone he banged his head against the wall so forcefully he was not fully conscious when he returned to court and not in a fit state to be tried. The Bench ordered that he be taken to the workhouse, but upon hearing this decision he sprang up from his seat and jumped over the partition and ran down the street. Officers of the court gave chase, taking a more traditional route and eventually captured Glover and brought him back to court. I am glad the young girl had her duck returned and it did not suffer the indignity of ’Paxo.’

Shopping Early for Christmas.

William Thornley, gamekeeper to the Hopwood Estate requested that the police partake in observations upon the estate fields during the period prior to Christmas. It was known that poachers travel a good distance to gain their booty. Sure enough, at half past three in the morning as Police Constable Crawford and P.C. Bent were patrolling the main carriageway of the hall they spotted five men and a dog. All five took to their heels upon spotting the officers of the law.

Both policemen gave chase and captured one prisoner each.

Henry Jackson from Oldham had a bag on his shoulder which contained four live rabbits. P.C. Bent captured Sam Jones, Little Green, Mills Hill, near Oldham, who had a bag which LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 33

contained 50 yards of netting which stood one yard wide, used in poaching. Jones had previous convictions for this type of offence. Both were fined 21 shillings, (£1.10p today). The two men were out of work and had no money, they requested time to pay. This was granted, with a month behind bars in default. The main carriageway to the hall was a popular place to take a stroll when the prized specimens of rhododendrons were in full bloom.

It was noted by the Botanical Society that the collection was one of the best in the district and provides a spectacular display when in bloom.

Susan Fanny Hopwood was a lover of shrubs and had collected many specimens. Within a report by the Society it states that they were given permission to take samples from the extensive collection. I suppose having shrubs was less labour intensive than maintaining large seasonal bedding schemes.

Xmas Eve Carriage Accident.

Mr Edward Gregge Hopwood was partaking in last minute preparations in the run up to Christmas when, as he was driving to Heywood the harness of the horse failed which caused the horse to bolt. Mr Hopwood realising the precarious position he and his son were in, told the lad to jump out of the back of the trap, and in carrying out this instruction the trap gave a sudden lurch which sent the young man flying over the back rail of the carriage into a rhododendron bush in the field opposite. The

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boy escaped without suffering a scratch, his father however landed on a cinder pile in which he sustained a number of scratches on his face and suffering severe shock after the horse carried on its journey then fell over thus ejecting Mr Hopwood.

One of the prized rhododendron bushes saved his son from sustaining an injury.

Queen Victoria’s Big Bird.

During the winter of 1892 the Royal Mail steamer, ‘Bonny’ arrived in England from West Africa. The Queens had accepted a gift of an ostrich was from Mr. Alfred L. Jones. It had travelled around 600 or 700 miles from the dominion of Mahommedan King Alimamy Samadou. As the bird walked the 700 miles the natives were delighted, this was the first time they had ever seen an ostrich. For most of the journey a Mahommedan boy rode on its back.

Interestingly the bird was quite tame. On board ship it was fed on sweet potatoes and bananas. It was let loose from time to time and enjoyed being stroked by the passengers. Standing over 10ft high the bird had immense feet in which during its walk overland it used to killed two native men who were disrespecting it. Upon arrival at Liverpool it became famous and the public travelled distances to meet the bird. During its three day stay at Liverpool a small charge was made for admission in which charities benefitted from the proceeds. In the run up to the Kings Coronation I was searching

Below: A Festive looking Hopwood Hall.

Christine PierceJones.

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my archive for anything with a Royal nature. It was around the festive period, when news is in short supply that a reporter interviewed a former member of staff from one of our Royal residences.

This happened by chance as the reporter was on board a train from Manchester to Oldham. The story which was related referred to was that the late Queen was a student of Hindustani, and the person who was her tutor was a native gentleman who had another interesting pupil being the head of the Mahomeden faith. According to his testimony the Queen was progressing well in acquiring the language. Although Her Majesty started her study late in life she took a keen interest and would delight in communicating with her Indian servants in their native language.

1937. Winter Fuel Allowance.

12th May 1937 was the Coronation of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. By November we find that the King was making Christmas gifts of coal to all the needy people aged over sixty years in Windsor.

This custom originated several years prior by King George V, and was to be continued each year by the present King.

Greetings.

I have noticed since the pandemic that there has been a reduction in the sending of Christmas cards. Maybe it could be the cost of mailing?

Our lead photograph was taken by myself some years ago, and shows Tonge Hall, Middleton, www.lancmag.com

“the King was making Christmas gifts of coal to all the needy people aged over sixty years in Windsor”

prior to being extensively damaged by an arson attack. It was Christmas Day some years ago that my main Christmas present was one of the new digital cameras. This was a new way of taking photographs, a new experience for yours truly having been used to roll and cine film since the 1960’s. Having practised the controls of my new toy on Christmas Day I awoke on Boxing Day to find that overnight, Lancashire had taken on a festive appearance, having had a decent dusting of snow. My thoughts were that this was a perfect opportunity to try out my new camera, and with Tonge Hall being on the market for half a million pounds I decide to take a few digital images. I found the new piece of equipment was easy to use and amazingly the very first digital photograph I captured was featured on a Christmas Card, this was following exposure in the local press the following year, it was reproduced by the Church of St Leonard to raise funds. My only comment regarding its use was that I receive a copy of the card for my files. This did not happen. When I enquired I was informed that all cards were snapped up like ‘hot cakes,’ which was fine, happy with the outcome. Then, to my delight, a few years later a close family friend was having a clear out of her late mother’s extensive photo collection and spotted the card and other items of interest to an historian. No doubt Christine Pierce Jones purchased the card upon spotting my name inside the card. Her daughter, Helen Stubbs, has been very supportive in documenting our historic LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 35

past by donating some fascinating material, retro ephemera and images. I certainly sit up in my office chair when a packet arrives from Helen. When it comes to taking photographs, Christine was prolific. Everyone even today has fond memories of this lovely lady and I can see why she gained so many photographs of our town capturing events and building which were destined for demolition.

Mrs Pierce-Jones was keen to document and support any fund raising schemes that took place, with her photographs always being selected for inclusion in the raising of funds from the sale of the annual Rochdale hospice calendar. The calendar also contained a selection of postcards which could be removed from the bottom of the page. I do believe that if Christine was alive today she would be delighted upon spotting her cards being offered for sale on a well-known online auction site. My very first digital photograph has been used by British Vita and other individuals for this purpose. For a number of years I would attend postcard fairs, mainly to document from the picture on the card how the town has changed over the years. One postcard in my collection was hand-made by a family who lived in the Prestwich area of Manchester. The message on the rear gives a clue as to why they took the time and trouble to produce the card two days before Xmas. It states, “I have such a terrible conscience for not mentioning Anne on your Xmas card that she is getting a separate one, although apologise profusely for the other Xmas card.” The card is addressed to forty six and a half Nest St, Titchfield, and posted on the 23rd of December 1968 and would have been delivered prior to Christmas Day. The family cut out photographs of family members then made up a cartoon. This card was highly valued because it was not discarded.

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Above: Star Supply booklet

Below: Hand-made Xmas card.

See opposite page for message.

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Provisions of 1938.

“I have such a terrible conscience for not mentioning Anne on your Xmas card that she is getting a separate one, although apologise profusely for the other Xmas card.”

An interesting little catalogue came to light which is worth a mention and is a fascinating read. The ‘Star’ company produced the little booklet a year before the start of the Second World War detailing what goods were available. Festive cakes available from the companies own bakery include; Snow White, Festive, Novel, Woodland, Favourite, Jack Horner, Father Christmas, Floral, Marzipan Dessert, Chocolate, Snowman, Victorian, Highland, Red Riding Hood, Mexican, Chocolate Walnut and Dundee in tins and cartons at 2/- and 3/-. Other cakes in the list were priced at between 2/9d and 4/6d with the Red Riding Hood being the most expensive at 7/6d. For the younger generation boiled sweets in a fancy bottle was 2d, Assorted Jubes (lollies) and Pyramid Jubes were also on offer. For six old pennies you had a choice of purchasing a half pound tin containing, Blue Bird Butter Crunch, Liquorice Crunch, or Humbugs. It is interesting to discover the different sausages that were offered for sale, all listed as ‘Star’ manufacture. Cambridge sausage, Sausage meat in Hygienic packets, Tomato Sausage, Special Beef, Oxford, Picnic, Luncheon, Cumberland, Chipolata and Cocktail, with no prices being listed, they are ’Market’ so fluctuate from day to day. My copy contains a flyer informing customers that upon their purchases exceeding 4/- (20p today) in a single shop, they would be given a free teapot.

Two hampers were on offer at a bargain price too. A friend of our family once owned a grocery shop during the wartime period of rationing. Eggs were tested by placing them in a tray which would be illuminated from below to show the contents.

Should any egg be dark it was classed as a ‘bad egg.’ Our friend commented that he had a few customers who were not very nice and could be nasty, arrogant. Should any customer show signs of aggression, he would drop one of the dark eggs into their ration allocation.

Co-op Christmas.

My memories from being employed at the Coop Central store during the mid-1960’s was the pleasure of the run up to the festive period.

A period that I looked forward too because of the ‘tips’ received when delivering goods to the customers. The society produced a great deal of its own branded goods and took great pride in quality.

The festive products produced at the Preserve Factory were eagerly snapped up by customers.

I was always contented to be hands on where tradesmen are concerned, and in the weeks prior to Christmas it was pleasure to assist the resident handyman to erect the festive illuminated displays on the roof. Health & Safety was not an issue back then. Passing the store during the hours of darkness I would be thinking to myself that I played a part in the erection and the sandbags I carried up the ladder which was still holding the display in place.

“Have a wonderful Christmas.” www.lancmag.com

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A selection of...

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...old Christmas Cards

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2024 Lancaster Playwriting Prize to focus on young writers from the North West The 2024 Lancaster Playwriting Prize is focusing this year on young writers from two age brackets 12-15 & 16-18 years old

Tajinder Singh Hayer (Senior Lecturer in Creative Writing at Lancaster University), a Youth Board Member from The Dukes and Porl Cooper, Talent Development & Programme Manager.

Karen O’Neill, Director of The Dukes said: “The Lancaster Playwriting Prize is a great opportunity for playwrights in the North.

Creating a space for different perspectives and views on the world from under heard communities, the prize is very important for the Dukes as we strive for creativity for all.

It is so exciting this year to be opening this opportunity to young writers and hearing their voices and stories.”

T

he competition is open to applicants living or learning in Lancashire and who must have reached their 12th Birthday / must not have reached their 19th Birthday by the date of the submission deadline Friday 12th Jan 2024.

Submitted scripts should be between 15 and 30 minutes long, and guidance will be available for those who might not have written plays or scripts before.

There will be two winners – one from each age group - who will each receive a prize cash and vouchers worth up to £750.

Alongside this brilliant prize, there will be a staged public reading of the winning plays in April 2024 at the Dukes in Lancaster and the writers will receive feedback on their work. The Lancaster Playwriting Prize is organised by the Dukes and in partnership with Lancaster University.

The final judging panel this year will include actor Lucy Briers, who is a prize funder, Dr

Singh Hayer said: “I’m really looking forward to this year’s prize. Each iteration of the Lancaster Playwriting Prize has seen fascinating stories written. The first year of the Prize was aimed at ethnically diverse voices from the North West. Subsequent versions aimed to discover respectively: unproduced writers over 55 in 2019; LGBTQAI+ voices in 2022; deaf, disabled, or neurodiverse writers in 2023. I’m intrigued to see what the young people of Lancashire have to say. There is something about childhood’s direct connection to the world of ‘let’s pretend’ that makes it a useful parallel to theatre making; I really want to see how these teenagers tap into that spirit, but also speak to the world around them.’

Briers said: “I’m thrilled that the 5th Lancaster Playwriting Prize will be reaching out to the playwrights of tomorrow, as we invite 12 to 15 year olds & 16 to 18 year olds to submit their work. Freedom of artistic expression is a vital part of any healthy society and the Lancaster Playwriting Prize 2024 will endeavour to find the talents of the future and support them at the beginning of their writing journeys. Over the last four years we have found outstanding hidden talents in the North-West, and this year will be no different.”

The deadline for applications is Fri 12 Jan 2024, with the winner to be announced in the following month.

Full details on The Dukes website https://dukeslancaster.org/get-involved/talent-development/lancaster-playwriting-prize

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As much as this was our son’s recovery, we as parents have also become stronger for the future.

Helen & Mark

Delamere Health Ltd is the UK’s only purpose-built residential addiction treatment clinic. We provide exemplary care and a truly innovative addiction treatment programme. www.lancmag.com

Guests come to stay with us when an aspect of their life is overwhelming all else. Whether it be their relationship with alcohol, substances or behaviour, we help guests heal and take back control. Our award winning clinic is set discreetly amidst 6 acres of grounds beside Delamere Forest in Cheshire. Since opening in 2020 we have helped nearly 1,000 people grow beyond addiction.

grow beyond addiction Call now: 01606 664 212 or visit: delamere.com

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Disney’s 100 Years Of Wonder

By Jodie Brotherton.

Disney, an iconic company on the forefront of entertainment, has been creating magical moments for a century. They filled our childhoods with timeless stories and characters - and are still doing so for children all around the world. From classics like ‘Cinderella’ and ‘Peter Pan’, nostalgic favourites ‘Aladdin’ and Tangled’, to recent releases ‘Encanto’ and ‘Luca’, Disney has created it all.

Through unparalleled storytelling, they have cultivated an emotional bond with adults and children alike, providing a huge range of content for all audiences. Whether you you’re a fan of Marvel, the Disney Princesses, or just enjoy the rides at the Disney Theme Parks, Disney has been involved in creating your favourite entertainment in some form. In this article we will travel to snapshots in history and learn how Disney came to have 12 theme parks, hundreds of original films, and the thriving streaming service Disney+.

October 16, 1923 – Disney is created Talented artist Walt Disney and his older brother Roy Disney had always dreamed big. Walt took the move from Kansas City to Hollywood after his company, LaughO-Gram Studio, had recently became bankrupt. With the ‘Alice’s Wonderland’ short film under his belt, Walt moved to Hollywood to join Roy, who was recovering from tuberculosis. They soon signed a contract to produce the Alice Comedies, a series of short films, with film distributor Margaret J. Winkler. The world was soon introduced to Walt and Roy as they founded the Disney Bros. Cartoon Studio, which soon became The Walt Disney Studios.

November 18, 1928 – Mickey Mouse Walt Disney was incredibly disheartened after his distributor J. Winkler stole the rights to his cartoon ‘Oswald the Lucky Rabit’. Therefore, he began to design an entirely new cartoon character. This was Mickey Mouse, who is now one of the most recognisable characters in history. The famous mouse was originally named Mortimer, but due to the urging of Walt’s wife Lillian, he became Mickey.

Mickey and Minnie Mouse were introduced in the short film ‘Steamboat Willie’, which was released at the Colony Theatre in New York. ‘Steamboat Willie’ was one of the first cartoons to be released with synchronised sound, and it was an instant hit. With this film, Disney pushed the limits of what cinema could be. And they didn’t stop there – on July 30, 1932, ‘Flowers and Trees’ was released. It was the first cartoon to be made in full colour and was the first animated movie to receive an Academy Award. www.lancmag.com

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Legendary Disney castle of sleeping beauty in Disneyland

December 21, 1937 – Disney’s first feature length animated film The success of these short films inspired Disney and his studio to work on ‘Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs’. It took 4 years, over 300 artists and animators, and going 400% over budget, but Snow White was finally released at the Carthay Circle Theatre just before the Christmas of 1937. The film was a magical success, becoming the highest grossing film of that year, and sparked Disney’s long-lasting influence on the entertainment industry. This groundbreaking film, based on a fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm, is still enjoyed by audiences to this day on the streaming service Disney+.

July 17, 1955 - Disneyland Disney’s next challenge was something that Walt had been dreaming up for a while now – an amusement park. Whilst watching his daughters ride on the Griffith Park carousel, Walt Disney has an idea. He wanted to create a place where children and parents could simply have fun together. And so, Disneyland was born. A new company was created to finance the park, WED Enterprises, and after just one year of construction the park was open in California. 3.6 million people visited in its first year alone, and over 20,000 visitors were welcomed into the park each day.

Much like in his films, Walt Disney strayed from what was conventional. He imagined a central hub connecting four themed lands, each with their own central feature such as the Sleeping Beauty Castle that resides there today. He wanted a park that was cohesive and had its own story, and so he built it. The now widely used term ‘theme park’ originated from Walt Disney’s incredible use of theming and design in Disneyland.

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Today Even though the Disney Brothers are unfortunately no longer with us, The Walt Disney Studios is an empire that is still growing. Disney now own Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm and 21st Century Fox, and that’s only to name a few. The magic of Disney is engrained into the world and positively touches every person’s life in some way. Some have even decided to live at Disney; the residential community Golden Oak is a flourishing neighbourhood at Walt Disney World.

Disney’s stories and characters have captured our hearts for a century now.

And to think, all of this started from one man’s dreams.

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Take the winter paths to wildlife While Santa is causing excitement on the Brockholes Visitor Village, in December, things are still noisy on the wider reserve, according to Lancashire Wildlife Trust’s Alan Wright.

B

rockholes is such a wild and thrilling place all year round – wildlife doesn’t all vanish into hibernation.

Whenever you visit the reserve and spend an hour or so, I can guarantee you will see something special at Brockholes.

Personally, I think we should employ people with brooms to drive people off the boardwalk and into the woodland or the paths to the big Number One Pit Lake, where flocks of waders and wildfowl are waiting to be observed by binocular-carrying hordes.

Look out for goldeneye, tufted duck, goosander and shoveler seeking food along the shoreline.

My favourite part of the nature reserve is the path through the reedbed, accessed as you cross the bridge from the Visitor Village. The boardwalks are atmospheric and you will hear the chatter of mallards and some honking from greylag and Canada geese among the reeds. In a couple of months it will also be the noisiest place on the reserve, with warblers and reed buntings singing with joy as warmer weather approaches.

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Above: Kestrel ensures visitors are paying to ensure his home is looked after

by Frank Eccles

Left: Curlews in the sunshine by Ken Hayes

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Frosty Boardwalk by Peter O’Malley

Left: Frosty Brockholes deer by Chris Short

At this time of year, there will a resident robin, proudly displaying its red chest to passers-by. This is likely to be a robin, born and raised on the reserve, over the past couple of years.

It is the pathway to Number One Pit, which was named to celebrate the history of this site as a sand quarry until the Wildlife Trust and nature took matters into their own hands.

The path leads across the entry road and into woodland, before crossing the Guild Wheel, so watch out for cyclists whizzing by. You then wander down past quiet dipping ponds to The Lookout, a hide that protects you from

Right: Peeping reed bunting by Ken Hayes

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View from the Lookout hide at Brockholes by Alan Wright

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the weather but gives amazing views across the lake and island.

Cyclists should note that Brockholes is a great destination for a winter cycle, with dramatic views and a bit of peace and quiet.

At this time of year, you will be watching waders, curlew and snipe, dibbing around in the mud and cormorants stretching out their wings to dry off in the winter sunshine.

Flocks of lapwings will flutter up and down on the far edge of the island.

Lapwings are easy to identify because their wings “lap” as they fly up into the air. Collectively lapwings are known as a deceit, perhaps the mass take-offs deceive predators looking for single birds.

A hanging robin by Pat Aitchison

View from the Lookout hide at Brockholes by Alan Wright

Robin on Brockholes sign by Alan Wright

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Birds of prey are common at Brockholes in winter, buzzards majestically cruising over the water, while kestrels entertain everyone as they hunt around the car park and meadows. Red kites have been spotted over the reserve and it will only be a matter of time before we get them making a home here. You will also be hearing barn owls and tawny owls communicating in the winter.

Winter is a good time for rarities, blown off course by strong winds. The reserve isn’t far from the Irish Sea, and many birds do stop over to feed and rest.

As the trees have shed their leaves you may be lucky enough to spot roe deer, moving between the woodland areas around the reserve. Brown hares are generally still busy feeding on the meadows in the mornings and let’s not forget their cousins the rabbit. Otters often cross from the Ribble seeking food.

Smaller mammals, like mice and bank voles are out and about on warmer days, and that means food for foxes and those birds of prey.

Today, two parent swans and their offspring have been entertaining visitors with spectacular take-offs and landings on the Meadow Lake. Mute swans are majestic birds and only too happy to splash around the floating Visitor Village.

If things get cold and some of the lake ices over, watch the coots and moorhens running and skidding on the surface. It’s one of those wild things that really makes you smile.

Brockholes is spectacular all year round, but in winter it is a wonderland to walk around - boots and warm clothes are vital.

If you see a winter wildlife spectacle, give us a shout out on social media, so others can share that warm feeling of joy.

Ready for take-off by Philip Webb

Robin on a berry branch by Mark Hamblin, Wildlife Trusts

Swans seeking winter food by Jacqueline Mott

Above: Cormorants, lapwings and black -headed gulls by Alan Wright

The Lancashire Wildlife Trust The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside is dedicated to the protection and promotion of the wildlife in Lancashire, seven boroughs of Greater Manchester and four of Merseyside, all lying north of the River Mersey. It manages around 40 nature reserves and 20 Local Nature Reserves covering acres of woodland, wetland, upland and meadow. The Trust has 30,000 members, and over 1,200 volunteers.

To become a member of the Trust go to the website at www.lancswt.org.uk or call 01772 324129.

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Winter Fayres at Brockholes to start the festive fun Swans will be a-swimming during the day, but as night falls at Brockholes Nature Reserve will switch on its Christmas lights for two Fridays in December.

Santa Claus is coming to the floating Visitor Village. It will be at the centre of two Winter Fayres, on the evenings of December 8th and 15th.

There will be lots of gift ideas, food and drink, when winter markets come to the nature reserve, off the M6 at Preston, for the first time.

Brockholes has hosted Christmas events in the past, and vintage and artisan markets at other times of year, so it was only a matter of time before a winter evening event was organised.

Now Santa and his elves will be making an appearance to help get the festivities started in wild and beautiful surroundings.

One of Santa’s little helpers said: “Brockholes is an amazing place

Brockholes from the air by David Gaskell

in winter but visiting there in the evenings is so atmospheric. These will be nights to remember and to give you that festive shiver of excitement in early December.

“As you drive along the road and see the Visitor Village reflecting in the lake, the spirit of Christmas will be making your heart beat.”

Once on the floating village the festive feeling will be obvious, with lights, stalls and some vintage Christmas cheer.

In the run up to Christmas, there will be the usual opportunity to meet Santa by the Lake in November and December and a chance to post your list in Santa’s postbox.

Those events will give visitors an opportunity to look out for wildlife and take healthy walks around this oasis for nature. Funds raised will go back into conservation at Brockholes and other Lancashire Wildlife Trust nature reserves, so you are helping wildlife as well as having a good time.

Over the festive season Brockholes will be open, except Christmas Day, for anyone wanting to grab a break from the usual family chaos.

If you go to the website www.Brockholes.org you can get more details and find out about other events over winter at the reserve and across the North West.

Stalls at a recent Brockholes market

The Lancashire Wildlife Trust The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside is dedicated to the protection and promotion of the wildlife in Lancashire, seven boroughs of Greater Manchester and four of Merseyside, all lying north of the River Mersey. It manages around 40 nature reserves and 20 Local Nature Reserves covering acres of woodland, wetland, upland and meadow. The Trust has 30,000 members, and over 1,200 volunteers.

To become a member of the Trust go to the website at www.lancswt.org.uk or call 01772 324129.

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New homes across Lancashire How very Redrow We pride ourselves in building quality homes throughout Lancashire

Images typical of Redrow homes. Details correct at time of going to press.

Redrow strive to create environments that will stand the test of time, where people can appreciate and enjoy their surroundings. We create homes that are designed for the way we live today, yet are rooted in the time-honoured traditions of craftsmanship and care.

Discover more about the new homes in Lancashire

Visit: redrow.co.uk/lancashire

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Wow! Kate Bush portrait wins Hard Rock Cafe Manchester charity art challenge A stunning portrait of singer Kate Bush was the overall winner of the inaugural Hard Rock Cafe Manchester Art Challenge, a charity competition in aid of the Mercury Phoenix Trust.

S

even artists gathered at Hard Rock Cafe Manchester on Freddie Mercury’s birthday (September 5th) for the chance to win a limited edition Epiphone Casino guitar and a set of highly collectible Hard Rock Cafe merchandise.

Each of the seven artists was challenged to create a canvas on the theme ‘Musical Icon’ and had the freedom to life whoever inspired them; the completed canvases featured a Who’s Who of the music world - Michael Jackson, Kate Bush, Madonna, Freddie Mercury, David Bowie, Robert Plant and Ian Curtis - but ultimately it was Catherine Lansdale’s magical pastel portrait of Kate Bush which caught the judge’s imagination.

All of the artworks will now be on display in the restaurant for a week before being auctioned off to the Mercury Phoenix Trust, a charity organisation set up in Freddie Mercury’s memory to fight HIV/AIDS worldwide.

The judging panel comprised experts from the Bury Art Museum, The Lowry and Manchester Metropolitan University, who came together to decide on the winner.

James Moss, Curator of Temporary Art at The Lowry, commented: “Agreeing on a winner was an extremely hard decision to make and there were many disagreements in the panel. We’ve enjoyed speaking with the artists and uncovering their art’s interesting stories; every painting had a story to tell. We’ve loved being a part of Hard Rock Cafe Manchester’s first charity painting challenge.”

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Lee Crocker from Bury Art Gallery and spokesperson for the judges commented: “All of the paintings really captured the heart and soul of the artists. I especially liked the David Bowie drawing by Sam Woodward when I learned that it was her first human portrait, given that she usually specialises in drawing dogs; this really impressed me.”

Sorcha Ní Fhlainn and Dr Emily Brick from Manchester Metropolitan University added: “We loved all of the artist’s work, they all contained such enthusiasm, but for us the Kate Bush portrait was the most celebrated piece of work.

The mezzanine in the restaurant is the perfect place for such events to be held, and proved a great space to engage the artists.”

Aneta Jarzmik, General Manager at Hard Rock Cafe Manchester, commented: “We’re overwhelmed with the sense of community and inspiration that Hard Rock Cafe Manchester’s first painting challenge has initiated. Over the course of the day we’ve all become inspired by the artist’s array of different art styles, whether that be mutli-media, pastels, pencils or acrylic, and we’re excited to see what the future holds for the paintings when they’re auctioned off to the charity.”

To make your bid for the artworks email: Manchester.SalesCoord@hardrock.com www.lancmag.com

WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON

By John Godber Directed by Jane Thornton

The John Godber Company presents, the iconic “Bouncers”.

The Guardian

WhatsOnStage

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WED 21 TO SAT 24 FEB

MON 03 TO WED 05 JUN

blackpoolgrand.co.uk

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Summit’s up for Tony mountainous challenge for eight-year old double amputee Pride of Britain Award winner, Tony Hudgell has set himself another aweinspiring challenge, three years after he raised over £1.7 million by walking 10km on his prosthetic legs during the pandemic.

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E

ight-year-old Tony, whose legs had to be amputated following life-changing injuries inflicted by his birth parents when he was a baby, reached the summit of Orrest Head in the Lake District on Tuesday 8th August.

The abuse by his birth parents also left Tony with other health conditions that require on-going treatment but this hasn’t stopped Tony, and he continues to capture hearts with his bravery, optimism and infectious smile.

Orrest Head, in the South Lakes, is the first fell that guidebook-author Alfred Wainwright summitted on his very first visit to the Lake District in 1930. He later described Orrest Head as the beginning of his ‘love affair with the Lake District’ and so it is fitting that this fell was also Tony’s first.

Wainwright remarked, “Orrest Head cast a spell that changed my life. It was a moment of magic, a revelation so unexpected that I stood transfixed, unable to believe my eyes”.

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Like his original challenge during the pandemic, Tony set himself a fundraising target of £509 (a typo by mum Paula is suspected to be the cause of the odd number rather than a round £500!).

Tony’s trek up Orrest Head raised more than £19,000 for charity, way beyond his original target! He has chosen to split his fundraising equally between four charities; The Tony Hudgell Foundation, Bendrigg Trust, Crohn’s & Colitis UK and Fix the Fells (The Lake District Foundation).

Each charity has a special link to Tony, fellow organiser Steve Watts, and/or the local area.

Right: Tony and poster

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When asked why he wanted to do this challenge, Tony’s response was “Well to help people really!

We should all donate, and rock and roll and we can do it!”

“It isn’t going to be hard because I’m very good with this stuff and I’m good with my rock climbing so I’ll be able to do some rock climbing if I have to.”

Summits Up For Tony was the next challenge in Tony’s life and he met it with enthusiasm, determination and incredibly positivity.

It is hoped that the challenge will inspire more people to get outdoors and have empowering adventures of their own.

About The Tony Hudgell Foundation – The Tony Hudgell Foundation’s mission is to enhance the lives of children affected by physical, emotional, or psychological abuse. Through fundraising and events, the foundation supports the charities and organisations that helped to share and continue to support, Tony’s life. Tony aims to highlight causes and share donations raised to help children have a better tomorrow.

About Steve Watts – Steve has over 40 years’ experience walking, running and guiding over the Lake District Fells.

During lockdown, Steve started sharing a photo a day from his daily walk/run and what started out as a daily Instagram photo quickly became an overnight sensation. Using these photos, Steve created a book, “A Year Like No Other” with proceeds going to the Tony Hudgell Foundation.

Steve’s guiding experience led him to reach out to Tony and offer his services to plan the ‘Summit’s up for Tony’ challenge.

About Crohn’s & Colitis UK: Crohn’s and Colitis, the two main forms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, are lifelong conditions affecting over 500,000 people in the UK. The symptoms can be debilitating, painful and therefore life-changing. There is no known cure.

We are the leading charity for people affected

by Crohn’s and Colitis. Our work with healthcare professionals helps improve diagnosis, treatment and management of the conditions.

We campaign for change which will help improve lives, and our vital research grants drive pioneering work to discover better ways of managing Crohn’s and Colitis, with the hope of one day finding a cure.

When asked why he wanted to do this challenge, Tony’s response was “Well to help people really!

We should all donate, and rock and roll and we can do it!”

We provide easy-to-understand, expert information to people affected by Crohn’s and Colitis when they need it most through our Helpline and award-winning resources, and we work hard to bring the community together so they can support each other. About The Lake District Foundation – The Lake District Foundation promote the conservation, protection and improvement of the physical and natural environment and cultural heritage of the Lake District by inspiring people to care for and contribute to the natural environment and cultural heritage of the Lake District and Cumbria.

Below: Summit’s Up For Tony wall climb

About Bendrigg Trust – Bendrigg is all about creating change, one adventure at a time. Working together, we create inclusive adventures of a lifetime so that people are empowered to overcome barriers, fulfil their potential and change their world.

From our specialist outdoor centre in the North West, nestled between the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales National Parks, we support people with disabilities, and those facing social disadvantage, to have amazing outdoor adventure opportunities. From caving to climbing, zip wires to canoeing; we challenge attitudes, strip away doubts and break through personal barriers.

We challenge traditional approaches, offer innovative ideas and little by little, we make great big changes.

At Bendrigg, we are exclusively inclusive. We always find a way.

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(A6) Garstang Road | Brock | Nr Preston | Lancashire | PR3 0RD Tel: 01995 643455 | Email: info@rockform.co.uk | Web: www.rockform.co.uk

‘That’s not my bowl!’

Importers & stockists of exceptional tiles, stones & wood flooring

Winter Warmer recipes

Slow cooked Asian flavoured beef Ingredients Cooks&Co Dried mixed forest mushrooms 400g can Cooks&Co Lotus root, drained and rinsed 1tbsp olive oil - 2kg boned, rolled brisket, tied with string (ask at the butcher counter) - 1 tbsp Olive Oil - 5 cm piece of fresh Ginger, peeled and finely sliced 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped - 3 Star anise 1 tsp Sichuan peppercorns, ground - 1 tsp five spice powder 3 tbsp hoisin sauce - 4 tbsp Shaoxing wine or use dry sherry 4 tbsp light soy sauce - 500ml beef Stock - Juice of 2 oranges 2 x 180g bags Kale, any tough stalks removed - 2 tbsp light Soy sauce 1 tbsp runny Honey - Pink peppercorns, roughly ground for topping (optional) Preparation Time: 10 mins Cooking Time: 4 hours (or 8 hours on low in a slow cooker) Preparation Method 1. Add the mushrooms to a bowl, cover with boiling water and leave to soak for 30 mins. Preheat the oven to gas 3/160C (140C fan oven) Heat the oil in a large heavy oven proof casserole pot, add the meat, season well and cook for a few mins each side until lightly browned, then remove it and put it to one side.

2. Add the ginger and garlic to the pan and cook for a couple of mins, don’t let the garlic get brown. Then stir in the star anise, Sichuan pepper and 5 spice, stir then add the hoisin, soy sauce and Shaoxing wine and bubble gently for a minute. Drain the mushrooms and add, reserving the juice, then pass the juice through a sieve to remove any grit and add this to the pot.

Pour in the stock and add the orange juice then return the meat to the pot.

Ladle over the juices. Put the lid on and put it in the oven for about 4 hours, or until meat is really tender when poked with a knife. Check it occasionally and if it is drying out at all, top up with a little hot water as you go.

3. Towards the end of cooking, steam the kale, either in a steamer or sit the kale in a metal colander, cover with a lid, and sit it over a pan of simmering water, cook for about 6-8 mins until tender. Add this to the brisket for the last 10 mins of cooking, stirring it to combine with the sauce.

4. To braise the lotus roots, in a small non-stick frying pan, add the soy sauce and honey then tip in the lotus roots, stir to combine then let the liquid bubble for a few minutes to coat, give it a stir then spoon them over the beef to serve. To serve the meat, slice, removing the string as you go. Sprinkle with pink peppercorns if using.

Tip: This makes an easy Sunday lunch served with roasties or mash potato or serve with rice. Any leftover beef, is great, shredded into a bun or wrap.

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Roast chicken with leeks & peppers Ingredients 4 leeks, trimmed and roughly chopped - 5 garlic cloves, finely sliced 400g pack baby onions, peeled - Few sprigs fresh Rosemary Few fresh thyme stalks - 1 bay leaf Sea Salt and freshly ground black pepper Handful of Cooks&Co green olives - 1 tbsp olive oil 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar - Generous splash of white wine 1 tbsp runny honey - 1 whole chicken, jointed or chicken thighs 460g jar Cooks&Co roasted red peppers, drained and roughly chopped Gorgonzola for topping, optional, but delicious!

Handful of fresh flat leaf parsley, chopped for serving Preparation Time: 15 mins Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 mins Preparation Method 1. Preheat the oven to gas 6/200C (190C Fan oven) Add the leeks to a large roasting tin, along with the garlic, baby onions and fresh herbs and scatter over the olives. Drizzle with the olive oil and season well.

2. Mix together the balsamic, white wine and honey. Put the chicken pieces in a large bowl, pour over the balsamic mix and using your hands combine well. Now tuck the chicken pieces in and around the leeks. Pour over remaining juice then put it in the oven for 40 mins.

3. Remove from oven and stir though the peppers, return it to the oven and cook for about a further 20 mins until the chicken is cooked through and the onions are tender. Check on the chicken occasionally and if it beginning to get too brown, cover the tray loosely with foil. If using, scatter over some gorgonzola for the last 5 min of cooking or until it begins to melt. Garnish with parsley to serve.

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from Cooks & Co

Herby Goats Cheese & Porcini Risotto Ingredients 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil - 200g mushrooms, sliced 1 clove garlic, crushed 190g pack Cooks & Co Porcini Mushroom Risotto - 150ml white wine 500ml vegetable stock - 75g Cooks & Co Sweety Drop Peppers 1 knob butter - 25g Parmesan, finely grated - 1 tbsp chopped chives 1 tbsp chopped parsley - 50g soft goat’s cheese Preparation Time: 10 mins Cooking Time: 20 mins Serves: 2

Preparation Method Preheat the oven to 240oC, gas mark 9.

1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan and fry the mushrooms and garlic for 2-3 minutes.

2. Add the risotto mix and then the wine and cook until the wine has reduced by half.

3. Add the stock, bring to the boil, cover and simmer for 10 minutes.

4. Stir in the sweety drop peppers, butter and Parmesan, the sprinkle in the herbs crumble in the goat’s cheese but just allow to melt without stirring before serving.

Cooks tip Try swapping the goat’s cheese for mascarpone or cream cheese.

Chakalaka

By Maldon Salt

Serves: 4 as a side dish | Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes Ingredients: 3 tbsp olive oil - 1 large onion, finely chopped 3 garlic cloves, crushed - 1 inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated 1 tbsp curry powder - 1 tsp ground cumin - 1 tsp cayenne - 1 red pepper, diced 1 yellow pepper, diced - 4 large carrots, washed and coarsely grated 2 tbsp tomato puree - 400g tin chopped tomatoes 400g tin of cannellini beans, drained - A small handful of thyme, leaves picked A pinch of Kalahari Desert Salt, selected by Maldon - Cracked black pepper Method: Heat the oil in a large frying pan and then add the onion. Cook for a few minutes until it starts to soften and go translucent. Next add the garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin and cayenne and fry for another minute.

Add the diced peppers and cook for a couple of minutes to allow them to soften. Next add the grated carrot, tomato paste and tinned tomatoes. Mix it well so everything is well coated and allow it to cook for 5 – 10 minutes.

Finally add the cannellini beans, fresh thyme and seasoning and allow it to bubble for a further 5 minutes. Check the seasoning and then serve.

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South Manchester schools work with withington baths to design equality-themed stained-glass windows for restoration project Over the past year and a half, five local schools have worked closely with Manchester Stained Glass to design equality-themed stained-glass windows for Withington Baths, the last remaining Edwardian pool in Manchester, as part of their restoration project that started in January last year.

West Didsbury CE Primary School, Cavendish Community Primary School, Manchester Muslim Preparatory School, Old Moat Primary School, and St Pauls CE Primary School each worked individually with Sharon Campbell, an artist at Manchester Stained Glass based in AWOL studios, to develop the stained-glass designs. With Sharon’s guidance, each school co-designed one of the five windows that were installed in July above the door entrance to studio two.

Sharon Campbell, from Manchester Stained Glass , says “Each school group went through a process of understanding stained glass and designing to the theme. The theme of equality was chosen because of the famous and also local to Withington, Margaret Ashton, and her work on equality for women’s and children’s rights. It is thought that she had a lot of 60

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influence on the Baths having the UK’s first mixed bathing sessions in the pool.”

Approximately 100 children from year groups 3, 4, and 5 represented their schools in the project, working together as design teams. They were encouraged to think about universal themes that promoted the topic of equality. Then using their ideas, they developed their own designs, including the colours and glass to be used during three workshops that took place in Autumn 2022.

Emma Horridge, Heritage Engagement Manager “These windows will be a lasting legacy for the school children, their parents, friends and own families as they grow up. Typically, stained-glass windows can last up to 100 years.”

The installation of the stained-glass windows is just one of the many projects - including the installation of the new pool roof, the new changing cubicles and the replacement of both studio roofs- that have been made possible by The National Heritage Lottery Fund grant, a loan from Manchester City Council and support from the local community. www.lancmag.com

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Manchester’s ‘Sham Fight.’

by Harold Cunliffe

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f you were instructed to choose a site in North Manchester in which to build a mansion which would be surrounded by beautiful parkland, you could not find a better location than the elevated area of land between Prestwich and Blackley. It was in 1902 that the estate, Heaton Park, which was once the home of the Earl of Wilton was purchased by the Manchester City Council for the sum of £230,000. Naturally the elected members of the City Council were delighted with the purchase of Heaton Park, and it was stated that the “Public of Manchester had acquired a green lung.” This was referring to a place where the public can escape the 62

smoke ridden streets and enjoy the vast green open space. It was during my short period of time working for the Co-operative Furnishing Dept that I would visit the round house which is located at the entrance to the park from Middleton Road. It was named ‘Smithy Lodge’ no doubt because at one time a smithy was close to the lodge on the main highway between Manchester and Rochdale. The amicable housewife, Mrs Heywood who lived at the lodge with her family was always happy and jolly when we made a delivery, and always handed over a few coins in the way of a tip. It must have been a

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challenge to her organising her furniture in a round building, and an even greater challenge for the delivery men if she bought a bed, which would entail taking the windows out. Mr Heywood was employed by the Manchester Parks Dept, as a small engine mechanic; he repaired and serviced the small petrol engines that were fitted in the motor boats on the lake. He too was happy with his way of life.

I would meet him when strolling in the park as he made his way to the Lodge for his lunch. He once commented that with small engines you have to make sure that the settings are precise, unlike a large engine which can be out of tune and would still run, but www.lancmag.com

a small engine had to be spot on.

Many visitors would witness him during the summer months next to the lake as he busily maintained and refuelled the motorboats.

Almost.

Living at Newton Heath, which was only a short drive away from the famous Belle Vue amusement park, a visitor from Cheshire once commented, “I bet you are always at Belle Vue, living close.” But in fact we only visited once a year. I always felt sad for the elephants that stood looking uncomfortable on a small area of concrete.

North Manchester almost had an amazing amusement park and sporting arena when news broke about a possible sale in of Heaton Park 1894. It was noted that the gates to the park were closed, with no public access. Naturally the local press, the Middleton

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Guardian, which had an office at Prestwich, sent a reporter to gather information. What was discovered was that the estate, including the hall was under offer.

The owners of Belle Vue, Messrs.

Jennison, and the Manchester Racecourse Company had put in a joint bid to purchase the estate. One eagle-eyed member of the public confirmed that the

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Then

Be Prepared.

Jennison’s had recently viewed the park and estate. I can only imagine what a fantastic place of entertainment the park would have made, bringing much pleasure to the public of Manchester. The Prestwich newspaper reporter was unable to verify the rumour of the purchase.

Today the park is well used. My home is over two miles from the park and it was during the warm weather we encountered this year, I could hear the music from a concert which was taking place one evening within the park. This happens if the wind is in the right direction.

Races.

When I carried out a search of my archive on the subject of ‘Heaton Park’ I find that many events came up bearing the same file name, these events took place annually which had the title of “Review and Sham Fight.” This period of time, the 1880’s, predates the First and Second World War. The details are that local volunteer regiments from this area and its neighbourhood would gather at Heaton Park during July where a sham fight took place, which was a type of enactment of military action being taken should an enemy invade. This review and fight was performed in front of a notable Army General. Some of the regiments that attended

in the report I have to hand was the 1st Battalion of the North Staffordshire Regiment from the Salford Infirmary Barracks and a squadron of the 5th Dragoon Guards from Hulme along with eight other regiments in which the total troops numbered 4,500. The orders handed out to the various regiments were that a hostile force had occupied Manchester and were making their way towards Heywood. It was up to the contingent of volunteers who occupied the whole park was to tactically put a stop to their advance. Each man was given 25 rounds of blank ammunition. The plan was that the enemy was to make its way North via passing through the park. The local newspaper was on hand to record

I have unearthed an item which states that horse racing once took part at Heaton in 1836. It was in that year that a new grand stand was built to accommodate 1,000 people. The top storey was for the ladies with an area below for a dressing room for Lord Wilton and other gentlemen riders and the jockey’s. Lady Wilton had her own private staircase to the top floor.

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the events in which they gave a detailed and in depth account of the proceedings. While the account may have been of great interest back then, it is a laborious job to relate the happenings in this magazine. In conclusion we find that our volunteers were victorious. It was noted that some of the volunteers when in action, patrolling near the perimeter wall decided that finishing early seemed a good idea, no one would miss them, but the dedicated and observant volunteers spotted their antics and gave chase, which proved amusing to the spectators in observing that they arrested their own men and were marched away as prisoners.

Thousands.

It transpires that observing our brave sons in action and parade became an enjoyable afternoons entertainment and we discover that the event was well patronised by members of the public. The Earl Wilton allowed access to all parts of the estate for this review and fight, and we find that thousands of people attended the park. Sadly accidents did occur. Edward Phelan, a 17 year old wire-works labourer decided to gain a better view of the proceedings. In an attempt to have an uninterrupted view he decided to climb a tree near the Grand Lodge, and 50 yards from the carriage drive. In thinking that the climbing of a tree was a good idea another young man did the same. A policeman on duty could see the danger of being in an elevated position, that of 25 feet above ground level and he gave orders for them to come down. In carrying out this operation Edward fell to the ground, landing on his stomach.

Spectators immediately went to assist and carried him to the www.lancmag.com

centre of the field where three doctors were on hand, one gave him a little brandy, but the poor chap was unable to swallow.

They afterwards confirmed that nothing could be done to save the young man’s life. Superintendent Bent stated that the cause of death was recorded as “accidental death.” There was no blame, the deceased climbed the tree of his own intent.

Loyal Orange Meet.

It was during the summer of 1883 that members of the Loyal Orange Institution of England held their demonstration at Heaton Park. Members of the various lodges numbering over a thousand met in Albert Square, Manchester, then around 3pm marched with their banners and brass bands through Cross Street, Corporation Street and along Cheetham Hill to Heaton

Park. A number of resolutions were discussed, which I am not commenting upon, but after the speaking and addresses was over, dancing, racing and other sports were enthusiastically indulged in.

Imagine an event like this being organised in these modern times.

I think many would be put off by the sports, which seems too energetic for most.

Park Put To Good Use. During both World Wars the park was put to good use in training serviceman and the rehabilitation of injured troops. A few years ago a friend of mine described his childhood in living in a prefab which was located on the Prestwich side of the park. He had happy memories of his time in the park and had visited the site to try to locate where the prefab was located but could only find old excavations were mock trenches were made. A number of old postcards in my collection show wounded soldiers from the Great War. Some have a single white stripe on their arm, others have two white stripes. These markings show that the soldier had suffered one or two wounds while in active service. The Wilton Estate

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was owned by the Manchester City Council at the time of both wars. A report was published by the local press in 1902 informing readers that the purchase of the park was practically completed.

It stated: ‘A special meeting of the

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Parks and Cemeteries Committee of the Manchester Corporation was held on Tuesday, Alderman W. Birkbeck, the chairman, presiding, ‘A resolution was passed approving of the amended and final form of agreement between the Corporation and the Earl of Wilton for the purchase from his lordship of Heaton Park for the purpose of a public park for the citizens. It was stated that the sum of £230,000 was paid.

Star Attraction.

From the comments in a school report which was published in a local newspaper we find that

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Gracie Fields visited the park, no doubt to give support to the work being carried out in defence of our country. Children at a school located at a village known as ‘Little Heaton’ were given a day’s holiday due to them being awarded a shield for being the ‘top of attendance table.’ The day off school coincided with the visit to Heaton Park by “Eaur Gracie” as the children pronounced her name. Parents and pupils made their way to the park to cheer the famous star from Rochdale. After their day out, in contrast with a day at school, the youngsters were excited to having seen Gracie, plus many obtaining her autograph.

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was before his demise, but he too was keen to scrutinise the book.

Next I featured the book within my newspaper column to be informed that another copy was being offered for sale on an online auction site. I was the successful bidder and this copy was received with delight by Mr Lord in Yorkshire. The authorities used a local printing firm to produce the booklet, that of Sydney Astle of Granby Row, Manchester, my example is dated 1942.

Highlighted.

In school the following day one young child commented, “She had no swank, she talks just like us.” Our image of Gracie which is featured is taken from a song book which was given away as free gift with ‘Woman’s Weekly’ in which our copy was donated

by Blackpool resident, Steve Anderson, many thanks for this nice piece of ephemera.

What makes this booklet interesting are the amusing sketches which make a point. The introduction was written by the Commanding Officer, he states;

“I am sure we are all animated by one desire, to beat the enemy at the earliest possible moment. You want to do your bit by flying and we will do all we can here to help you get into the air without delays.

Each Cadet who falls by the wayside lengthens the war. You are all Cadets, and wear a flash in your caps to denote your selection and importance as untrained air crew, not to mention that many of you are also potential Officers.

I ask you to appreciate the duel importance of being a Cadet at the moment and of the job of work you have voluntarily undertaken, and not to clog the machinery by any faults of your own. This brochure is to help you.” An interesting map of the park is produced which shows the locations of the various service huts, which

R.A.F. During the Second World War Heaton Park was used as a training camp for the R.A.F. Details of their occupation are to be found in an informative blue book, a guide, which was given to those who attended the station. Copies of this interesting little book were issued in their thousands, but today very few exist. It is a guide which instructs the servicemen on the do’s and don’ts of being stationed at the camp. Some years ago when I was visiting a postcard fair I noticed that a copy of this magazine was being offered for sale, naturally it was something I was keen to own, so in exchange for a few coins of the realm it was mine. As a matter of interest I mentioned this find to ex-RAF man Les Lord. This www.lancmag.com

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is of benefit to historians today.

One of our illustrations shows a Cadet with a spade; this was part of the “Dig for Victory” campaign where everyone was encouraged to grow their own food. When not on parade and during the evenings cadets could do what they liked, within reason, as one of the illustrations shows a cadet climbing over a garden wall, what has he been up to?

The little devil. Many servicemen travelled to Manchester to find amusement. A pass was required for anywhere outside a five mile radius. Manchester was about four miles from the park. Victoria Station, Manchester was out of bounds from 22.40 hours nightly unless a form 295 was issued. So movement was restricted, plus they were warned that they ‘had’ to be back in camp, in their hut for 23.15 hours which was extended to 23.30 hours on Saturdays. An advice note is printed in the blue book, “It isn’t any good telling your Squadron Commander that you missed the last bus or train, catch an earlier one, the last bus or train is normally busy.”

Phone Home.

During the First World War many family members of serviceman or woman would say, “Don’t Forget to Write,” to those going to war, at Heaton Park three locations were available for those wanting to phone family and friends, but to every person making calls there was a warning, they were prohibited in discussing anything embraced by security or likely to be of value to the enemy. Digesting the material in this little booklet you can see that discipline was of a high standard. Item seven in the instruction book is specific on the do’s and don’ts regarding security, Whenever you are out of camp, 68

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for heaven’s sake keep your mouth shut about what goes on inside Heaton Park. What we do here may not seem terribly vital on the face of it, but we can assure you that people will pester you for information wherever you go, particularly in the hostelries. Keep your mouth shut and don’t write anything down either.”

I would like to mention at this point that during my time with Rochdale Council, when carrying out job interviews I would observe the manner in which the candidate would enter the room, and the speed in which the person crossed the room to take a seat. If they were of a businessman like manner they stood a good chance of being employed, next I find a comment by the RAF, all Cadets were instructed, “To walk briskly when moving about the camp, walk

in an airman like manner, if called by an officer or NCO, this must be at the double.” We find however that there were some quaint ideas about what “at the double meant.”

Dress Code.

The RAF was keen to ensure that no cadet personalised their dress. A list was given which stated that no battle dress or articles of flying clothing should be worn.

No braces, only belts were allowed. “During working hours you will wear your haversack containing your irons and mug, if you break your mug, (See image) buy another, do not steal one from the canteen. When wearing Great coats all buttons must be fastened with collar down, except in inclement weather when the collar may be worn up.”

Air Bomber.

At this point in the war a new category of Air Bomber was introduced, The age limit was between 18 and 33 years. The duties of an Air Bomber was to locate, identify and guide the pilot on to the target, and to bomb it; to assist in the navigation of the aircraft between base and target area by map reading; and to act as an air gunner in defence of his aircraft. The pay was as follows. Aircraftman, 2nd class, Group V, 3 shillings a day (15p). Leading Aircraftsman Group two, 7s-3d a day (Just over 36p). Sergeant, Air Bomber, 13 shillings and 6 pence a day (67.5p).

Take Care of the Park.

“Don’t be a litter lout, use the salvage bins.” This was a comment from the camp Commander. He commented that the RAF was a guest of the Manchester City Council and the people of Manchester had lost a good recreational park for the duration of the war. It was up to them to look after the park so the hard working folk of Manchester would not be disappointed after the war. The park reopened during Whit week 1947 after the reinstatement and derequisitioning work had taken place. It was reported that the total cost of this action was £2,713, with £2,594 being recoverable from the Air Ministry.

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The Greenlands Farm Village Experience Greenlands Farm Village are often recognised for their family-friendly days out in Lancashire, offering a unique blend of entertainment for the kids. From The Open Farm, which is home to more than

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120 animals, to The Play Barn, Greenlands Farm Village have many engaging activities for families and children. However, Greenlands offer far more than what first meets the eye...

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ow introducing Greenlands for GrownUps, demonstrating how Greenlands is not only an amazing destination for kids, but for the whole family. In addition to animal encounters and soft play, Greenlands also tailors to adults with their Kitchen & Bistro, as well as their charming Farm Shop.

GREENLANDS FARM SHOP Greenlands Farm Village Shop provides an exciting array of items from local producers and brands, including everything from fresh local produce to farm-themed souvenirs and gift ideas. The shop offers a curated selection of delicious produce from local suppliers in Cumbria, Lancashire and Yorkshire. Greenlands are focused on sustainability and have significantly cut down on any negative environmental impact by using suppliers that are no more than 40 miles away from the site.

In the Farm Shop you can find the best artisan produce, whether they are already your firm favourites or are new discoveries. It offers something much more than your typical shop, with new tasters every weekend and even a personalised hamper service. The staff’s knowledge and expertise of their produce means they are there to help with any questions you may have. It’s a shop with a difference, yet remains affordable for its customers and is often packed full of special offers.

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“The warm and inviting atmosphere, coupled with the friendly staff and wide selection of goods, makes it an integral part of the overall Greenlands Farm Village experience.”

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The traditional butcher’s counter, carefully sourced from local farms, is where you can buy Greenland’s homemade meats such as sausages, burgers, black pudding and marinated meats. These delicious, fresh meats are great for any occasion, ranging from a Sunday lunch to a Christmas dinner.

Located inside the Farm Shop, the Gourmet Pantry provides a variety of jams, curds, chutney’s, cakes, biscuits and marmalades. Stocking produce from local brands such as Choc Affair and Hawkshead Relish, there is something for everybody to enjoy.

This is complemented by the Regional Cheese Counter, showcasing the exquisite cheese making skills of Cumbria, Lancashire and Yorkshire.

With a vast selection to delight in, with favourites such as the Wensleydale with cranberries and the traditional Lancashire cheddar, it’s a haven for any cheese lover.

There’s nothing better than cheese and wine Greenlands Bottle Loft serves all the finest quality wines for you to enjoy. Whether you’re partial to a sophisticated red, refreshing white, sparkling champagne or a fruity rosé, there’s a bottle to suit all tastes.

Greenlands Farm Shop is an ideal spot to pick up unique gifts or food, supporting both the farm and local artisans in the process. The warm and inviting atmosphere, coupled with the friendly staff and wide selection of goods, makes it an integral part of the overall Greenlands Farm Village experience.

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Above: Greenlands Farm village

“There’s nothing better than cheese and wine Greenlands Bottle Loft serves all the finest quality wines for you to enjoy” www.lancmag.com

GREENLANDS KITCHEN & BISTRO It wouldn’t be a trip to Greenlands without visiting the refurbished Kitchen & Bistro, with a new extensive menu serving all day snacks, light bites and hearty meals for breakfast and lunch. The bistro offers a delightful blend of delicious cuisine and a warm, inviting ambiance, making it the ideal place enjoy a meal after a day of exploring the farm.

The menu highlights locally sourced ingredients all supplied from the Farm Shop. This means that if you can’t get enough of the food from the Kitchen Bistro, they are all purchasable from the Farm Shop so you can take them home too!

Breakfast (served 10:00 am to 11:15 am) delivers filling, tasty breakfasts from farm-to-fork. The variety of meat options are homemade, cooked and made in-house. The emphasis on freshness results in wholesome dishes that are bursting with taste.

This is the same for the lunch menu (lunch served 11:45 am to 3:00 pm, pizza and sides 11:45 am to 3:00 pm). The lunch menu boasts a diverse range of food to suit all appetites, such as wood fired pizzas, homemade burgers, children’s meals and sweet treats. They serve hot drinks, soft drinks, wine, gin, cocktails and more.

Greenlands Farm Village Kitchen & Bistro takes pride in sourcing fresh and locally produced ingredients, embodying the farm-to-table philosophy. This commitment to local sourcing ensures that guests can savour the flavours of Lancashire and the surrounding regions in every bite. The eatery also has little to no food waste, as it can all be reused for the farm animals.

Greenlands Farm Village is not just a fantastic destination for children, but it truly caters to everybody. Both The Farm Shop and The Kitchen & Bistro are troves of local produce. Each offering something unique and affordable, paired with the other exciting activities held by the farm, make for a lovely Lancashire day out.

Greenlands are always developing and evolving, and this winter they are introducing The Teepee at Greenlands Farm Village! This new venue will include Christmas Markets, Santa’s Grotto and much more. Visit greenlandsfarmvillage.co.uk to keep up to date with unmissable events at Greenlands Farm Village. www.lancmag.com

Website: greenlandsfarmvillage.co.uk Facebook: Greenlands Farm Village Instagram: @greenlandsfarmvillage / @greenlands_farm_shop LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 73

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combination of national housing crisis, reduced private rented stock, changes in tax relief for landlords, unprecedented demand for social housing, cost of living crisis, utility expenses, post pandemic employment and recruitment challenges are all contributing to increased homelessness and unstable housing. Backup North West have received the same amount of referrals in the first 6 months of 2023 as they did on the whole 12 months of 2022.

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The waiting list which has fluctuated between 20 and 30 for 4 years has increased to 73 in September. The average length of stay in backup for a young people in housing crisis is 13 months so with 106 units of accommodation a waiting list like this would take 2 years to address and that’s without another single referral, for the next 12 months!

This will push young people into risk of homelessness, rough sleeping and harm.

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Be Kind For Backup

World Kindness Day - Monday 13th November Activity challenge

Fancy Dress

Donate £25 for a start-up pack

Dog walk or wash

Bake Sale or Competition

Donate an hours wage

Become a Guardian Staff / Pub Quiz

Wear purple or orange

Host a coffee morning Online Raffle

Donate tinned goods

All funds raised help BACKUP support vulnerable young people overcome homelessness and live happier, safer independent lives.

If you or your team would like to take part email laurapendlebury@backup-charity.org.uk. www.lancmag.com

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LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 77

New Light Art Prize Winners Announced

The winners of the prestigious New Light Art Prize have been announced. Experts, enthusiasts, curators and art gallery owners joined together for the opening of the Prize Exhibition at the Williamson Art Gallery and Museum in Birkenhead on Friday (29th September) where one hundred of the shortlisted artists waited in anticipation for the results.

The biennial New Light Art Prize shines a light on Northern artists, celebrating the immense talent the region has to offer. The winners, who are from Northumberland,

Cheshire, Yorkshire and Lancashire have done incredibly well to be crowned victorious as the judges had to wade through thousands of entries. The winners, and those 121 shortlisted will have their art feature in a 14-month long exhibition which takes on the length and breadth of the country in prolific galleries such as Bankside Gallery in London, The Rheged Artst Centre in Penrith, The Biscuit Factory in Newcastle, The Mercer Art Gallery in Harrogate and of course, The Williamson Art Gallery & Museum in Birkenhead where it begins and will run until 22nd December.

The winners are: The New Light Valeria Sykes Award – winning £10,000 - Frances Bell Frances was born in 1983, and raised in Suffolk. After developing an early interest in drawing and painting, she then pursued art and art history at school. At aged 18 she made her way to Florence to pursue a classical training at Charles. H. Cecil Studios in 2001 for 3 years, and then taught sporadically there for a further seven summers.

Since the completion of her training Frances has been a full time professional portrait and landscape painter and has participated in many exhibitions including Royal Institute of Oil Painters, the BP Portrait Award, the Royal Society of British Artists, the Royal Society of Marine Artists, The Society of Wildlife Artists, the Society of Women Artists and the Royal Society of Portrait Painters Annual Exhibition, where she has shown since 2005.

She has also exhibited internationally at the MEAM in Barcelona, and at the Portrait Society of America.

Frances is a member of the RP the ROI and is an Assoc RSMA.

Frances Bell – Photo Credit Dillon Bryden

Lockdown’ by Frances Bell, Winner of the New Light Valeria Sykes Prize 2023 £12,000 - Oil on canvas 130cm x 110cm

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The £2,500 New Light Patron’s Choice Award - Robert Cook After graduating in scientific illustration at Blackpool & The Fylde College Robert worked as an illustrator before going into teaching, sharing his knowledge of drawing, painting, and passion for nature as a lecturer in scientific illustration. Since leaving education he has worked as a wildlife artist honing his craft.

Careful observation, draughtsmanship, a strong sense of colour and design are the key elements that come together in the creation of Robert’s works. Drawing inspiration from the countryside he seeks to create narratives of birds in their habitat. Building up detailed knowledge of his subject and continually refining his painting technique Robert’s art depicts atmosphere, light and realism that looks to show true aspects of behaviour and interactions within natural landscape.

Throughout his career he has exhibited widely and his wildlife paintings have won multiple awards, successfully being juried into the renowned ‘Birds in Art’ exhibition in America on several occasions.

Robert Cook, Winner of the New Light Patron’s Choice Award 2023

Bog Bumper Emerging from the Moss

by Robert Cook – Winner of the New Light Patron’s Choice Award 2023 £3,000 Acrylic on Paper, 61cm x 45cm

The New Light Emerging Artists Award sponsored by Saul Hay Gallery - George Melling After finishing my M A at Chelsea college of art I took a teaching job at Kingston university where I remained for six years. I relocated back to Lancashire in the year 2000. Having set up my painting practice I was ready to embark on a new body of work that would occupy my painting up to this day. When I left school I served an apprenticeship in butchering and it is this skill that I have fallen back on for two days a week to earn money to pay the bills.

This allows me to make work for the rest of the week and to buy art materials.

George Melling

The current body of work draws on images from photographs of family and friends from my childhood and teenage years. While there is clearly an autobiographical thread, there are touch points within the images which offer a wider resonance as they reference time, geography and social class.

These paintings represent the interrogation of my past; what we inherit, what we cherish and what we choose to discard, which becomes the narrative of our lives. These paintings are about passing time, loss and our mortality, but ultimately they are about love. www.lancmag.com

During the Endless Night She Felt Herself Losing Her Mind’ by George Melling – Winner of the New Light Emerging Artist Award 2023, sponsored by Saul Hay Gallery £4,000 - Oil on canvas, 76cm x 48.5cm LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 79

The New Light Printmakers’ Prize sponsored by Zillah Bell Gallery - Neil Bousfield

New Light Purchase Prize - Christine Stables

‘Bewick’s Place’ by Neil Bousfield – Winner of the New Light Printmakers’ Prize 2023, sponsored by Zillah Bell Gallery Multiple 16 block reduction relief engraving and woodcut - 16cm x 32cm Neil Bousfield RE works within the discipline of relief printmaking and contemporary wood engraving. He continues to make engravings which explore landscape narrative through the concept of place and place attachment. He was born in Middlesbrough, and grew up in the coastal village of Marske-by-the-Sea, and Redcar, in North Yorkshire.

Bousfield studied at Cleveland College of Art and Design, Middlesbrough, BA (Hons) Film & Animation at West Surrey College of Art and Design, and MSc CAGTA at Teesside University, Middlesbrough. More recently he studied at Bristol’s University of the West of England where he gained a Master of Arts degree in Multi-Disciplinary Printmaking, awarded with distinction.

Bousfield is an elected member of The Society of Wood Engravers and a Fellow of the Royal Society of PainterPrintmakers. His work is held in private and public collections. He now lives and works on the North Norfolk coast.

Bewick’s Place is a multiple block engraving and woodcut.

The work comprises 16 small square blocks to represent a grid or a plotting and mapping method, which have been engraved, cut, and printed using the reduction method.

Each block has been engraved in sections and printed as one.

Bewick’s Place looks at the idea of home and place from multiple perspectives. The work was inspired from a visit to Cherryburn, a small stone cottage and farmhouse in Mickley, Northumberland near the south bank of the River Tyne.

It was the birthplace of Thomas Bewick (1753 – 1828) wood engraver and ornithologist. Cherryburn now houses a small museum devoted to Bewick’s life and works in the main house, and a printing shop in the barn.

Neil Busfield 80

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The Art of Balance by Christine Stables, Winner of the New Light Purchase Prize 2023 Acrylic and ink on canvas board 40cm x 40cm I was a textile artist for many years. My work was becoming more and more abstract and I was frustrated with being limited with colour, unless I dyed my own fabric and threads which was time consuming. I eventually decided to change over to abstract painting in 2019, so that I could mix and use my own colours to my heart’s content! I love to layer and found it more satisfactory with paint.

I am inspired by colour, pattern and texture wherever I find them! My art is inspired by the life I love – of which there has been plenty as I am a retired granny!

I use acrylic paint, glazes and inks. The inks are wonderfully fluid and produce exciting lines as I apply it fast, using a pipette! The glazes allow for wonderful depths and translucent overlays.

In ‘the Art of Balance” I had the intention of showing off the colour orange by using contrasts in texture, translucency, opacity and complimentary colour.

I used organic shapes, which I love, created with loose white ink lines. I think they balance so well with the varied blue green amorphous background.

Christine Stables www.lancmag.com

The New Light Prize Exhibition, established in 2011, has become one of the UK’s largest and most talked about open touring exhibitions and offers some of the region’s best awards and opportunities for aspiring and established artists.

The judging process began in May and included some of the UK’s best art experts including Olivia Heron, Curator of The Whitworth Gallery, Matthew Hall, Director of Panter and Hall, London, Nan Perell, New York Collector specialising in contemporary British paintings, Mark Demsteader, renowned figurative artist and Rebekah Tadd, Development Director of New Light Art. Rebekah Tadd, Development Director at New Light says: “The Williamson Art Gallery and Museum in Birkenhead is a wonderful launch venue for the New Light Prize Exhibition 2023/24. The standard and quality of artwork submitted was incredibly high. Once again the shortlist has proved the tremendous wealth of talent that exists in the North of England. The judges had a very difficult time making a decision and commented on the high standard of all the shortlisted artwork in the exhibition. Congratulations to such worthy winners. The exhibition is now open to the public at The Williamson before commencing the next leg of the tour in London at Bankside Gallery in February.

“We are excited to open for entries for our first ever Sculpture Prize in December 2023, sponsored by the Biscuit Foundation and hosted by the Biscuit Factory.

For the first time, plinth, floor and suspended work will join the wall hung Prize Exhibition, adding a new experience for the visitor.”

Frances Bell, winner of the New Light Valeria Sykes Prize says: “I feel so optimistic for the future of northern art in being part of this show. Such an ambitious exhibition, over so many wonderful venues, and months in which to tour the country, with such a rich crop of work to show alongside.

There is great depth in the artistic community in the north and this show demonstrates so much of that. To have won the Valeria Sykes Award is beyond my wildest expectations, I’m really delighted. The painting was made at the tail end of the second lockdown, which so affected us all. My sitter is another Northumbrian and a great friend of mine. The atmosphere of that time comes through for me when I think about the painting, almost like a time capsule from the past.

“It feels balancing that a painting which stems from being compelled by circumstances to remain in one locality through a hard moment in our recent history, should be shown in an exhibition celebrating that same area, and those who live and create art there.” www.lancmag.com

Artists who were born, live or have studied in one of the historic counties of the North of England - Cumbria, Durham, Lancashire, Northumberland, Yorkshire and – for the first time – Cheshire, were invited to submit their work online via www.newlight-art.org. Entry into the competition was £20 for the first two pieces of artwork and £10 for any subsequent entries.

Past New Light shortlisted artists who have had huge success with exhibitions across the UK and further afield include Norman Ackroyd CBE RA, Anne Desmet RA, Maxwell Doig, Mark Demsteader, Christopher Cook, Mandy Payne, James Naughton and Jo Taylor.

Matthew Hall, Direct of Panter & Hall in London, and one of the Judges of the New Light Art Prize says: “I was very impressed by the increasingly high standard of work year on year. The New Light Prize has become one of the nation’s leading figurative painting forums recognising the importance of technical capability in artistic practice. It was the strongest year yet for the New Light Prize and a very difficult choice to make amongst a talented field. As always it was a professionally organised event by a very friendly team, it is a sheer pleasure to take part.”

Mark Demsteader, renowned Figurative Artist and another one of the Judges of the New Light Art Prize added: “It was a very difficult decision to choose one artwork from the whole show as they all stand alone as individual pieces.

It was good to see such high quality work coming from Northern artists.”

Established in 2010, New Light is a charity that celebrates and promotes both well-known and emerging artists by offering some of the region’s best awards and opportunities.

As well as the New Light Prize, it runs New Light Art for All, an education programme which includes talks, workshops and school projects. In 2021 it launched the New Light Collection which aims to make the best in Northern visual arts available to more people, by loaning pieces free of charge to public bodies and charities.

The common thread through everything New Light does is a deep belief that the visual arts matter and the north of England deserves to be celebrated. New Light is run by a dedicated group of people who are passionate about the visual arts in the north of England and relies entirely on donations and sponsorship.

For more information visit www.newlight-art.org.uk

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Young Blackpool-born filmmaker Ryan J. Smith defies odds and lands global movie releases “Ryan J. Smith makes a film we thought only the big studios could make” is what American filmmaking outlet Film Threat said of the 25 year-old’s first feature endeavour Lottery.

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hey’re now deeming his follow-up heartbreaker Talking To Ghosts “a well-crafted thriller in dramatic clothing”. A staggering feat considering both films were made for the fraction of one mainstream television episode’s budge. The maverick filmmaker’s efforts are now reaching global audiences via streaming services.

“I hope other people looking to get into filmmaking see what I’m doing and realise that they can do it, too” says Ryan. “It’s never been easier and cheaper to make movies and get them out there, the same goes for any kind of art. Lottery and Talking To Ghosts were made for around £7000 each – money raised independently through various day jobs. Now the success of those movies on streaming platforms has allowed me to commit full-time to filmmaking. Nothing is impossible in today’s world.”

Talking To Ghosts is led by theatre prodigy Nina Holland-Smith, Skint Film Company veteran Neizan Fernandez and The Dark Knight actor Grahame Edwards – it tells

the story of a young woman who finds herself in the midst of a black market arms deal gone wrong. “It’s a love story.

The gunfire is just for show.”

“This particular story began life as a very aggressive revenge film, but by the end, it became a much more hopeful movie than first envisioned” says Ryan. “I was out for blood at the start — but I found myself healing towards the end. It’s a very raw movie, certainly the most emotionally complex story I’ve told yet.”

Talking To Ghosts star Nina Holland-Smith said this about the young filmmaker: “Working with Ryan was really great.

He has a vision in his head and knows exactly how to make it come to life.

He works non stop! He made me feel so relaxed on set, we all had so much fun filming as cast and crew. The film itself is quite dark, but we definitely found moments in between to lighten it up and have a laugh and a cup of tea!”

At only 25 years-old, Ryan runs his own studio, the Skint Film Company, which

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is responsible for the development, production and global exhibition of his movies. He works with his friends Adam Bentley (visual effects), Alisdair Pickering (music) Lewis William Robinson (sound recordist) and Meredith Grace (production designer) — but he is now looking to expand and allow for greater opportunities for unseen talent. “The idea is to grow the studio and productions indefinitely in order to hire more and more emerging talent who otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity for creative work.”

Fylde coast actor Harry Mclafferty, who starred in both Lottery and Talking To Ghosts, says: “it’s always a great laugh on set. The atmosphere is comfortable and exciting, which says a lot when there’s usually so much to film in a day. Despite the small team and limited budgets, the projects Ryan produces are consistently impressive and something, as an actor, I know I’ll always be proud of.”

Talking To Ghosts was filmed in November 2022 across the Fylde Coast and features a roster of newly-cinema-stamped Northern locations. “I’ve always gotten a kick out of being the first filmmaker to plant the flag in certain areas” says Smith. “It’s kind of my duty at this point to put the Fylde Coast on the map filmmaking-wise.”

Ryan J. Smith’s two current feature films Lottery and Talking To Ghosts are out now on digital.

More information: www.skintfilmcompany.com

www.lancmag.com LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 000

CELEBRATE FOOD AND FARMING IN LANCASHIRE THIS CHRISTMAS

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H O N E Y WE L LFA RM SH O P. C O M

Dr Mani Introducing Dr Mani of Lancashire GP Private Practise in Garstang, who answers your questions in our new regular medical advice column.

Q - I have been having acid reflux

Q - My sex drive seems to have gone,

for a couple of years on and off, I am 74. I have always used Gaviscon in the past but it doesn’t seem to be working any longer. I eat pretty slowly and chew my food well so I am not sure why I get it and also why the over the counter medicine will no longer work. Please could you give me an insight in to possible causes and any potential solutions, I would rather try a bit longer to deal with this myself. Gary

A - Indigestion is often caused by acid from your stomach irritating your stomach lining or throat. This can be caused or made worse by certain food and drink – such as coffee, tomatoes, alcohol, chocolate and fatty or spicy foods, being overweight and smoking. Some medicines, including anti-inflammatory painkillers like ibuprofen an also cause indigestion symptoms. If over the counter mediations ae not improved your symptoms ten I would suggest to

I am 75 and my partner is 65. Do I have to give way to age now and a life of bingo and coronation street or is there something I can be doing that will put the thrill back in to our weekends please? Maureen.

A - Maureen you should remember

see your GP as they can prescribe stronger antacid mediations such as Lansoprazole or Omeprazole.

If you experience other symptoms such as unintentional weight loss, vomiting keep getting indigestion, difficulty swallowing could be a sign of something more serious so you should see you GP immediately for further urgent investigations.

Reference: https://www.nhs.uk/ conditions/indigestion/

Q - I am 40 and seem to be having

hot flushes, tiredness, grumpy mood swings and lighter periods, my mum didn’t start menopause until 57, I am really am not ready, I was still thinking of having a second child.

Is there anything I can do to slow it down or could it possibly be anything else? Marianne

A - Your symptoms might not necessary be a sign of premature menopause. I would recommend you see your GP to have blood tests including your hormone levels to exclude other causes such thyroid problems 84

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that an active sex life is possible at any age. Being intimate doesn’t purely mean intercourse. Other acts of affection such as holding hands and cuddling with your partner can also bring you closer together.

Low libido can be caused by a variety of factors such as hormonal changes, chronic disease for example obesity, arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease, anxiety and depression and medications such as Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), blood pressure medications.

Please see your GP to rule out any health or medication-related causes for your symptom of loss of libido.

Q - I have had severe tummy pain

for 3 days, but just at night, then a few days ok and then one night back again, a week on, all seems to be ok, can I just put this down to a bit of an infection and move on or should I go to a doctor, even though everything now seems to have cleared up. I actually would feel a bit silly going to a doctor, now that I am ok again.

A - I am pleased to hear that you feel

better now. I would advise that you see your GP so they can ask more questions regarding your symptoms, examine you and advice regarding potential return of the symptoms in the future as what to do and when to get medical attention.

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Doctor Mani of Lancashire GP Practice in Garstang will be answering questions each month on any health queries or concerns you have.

Q - I seem to have developed a lot of

intolerances and allergies to various foods and I am in my sixties so I do find it a bit strange, I went for an allergy test and everything from eggs ( which I love ) to oranges came up.

I don’t feel like stopping eating eggs and oranges and the huge list of other foods that came up on my test and I am not particularly unwell.

Do I need to give up these foods and why am I suddenly sensitive to what feels like everything?

Please email us at: info@lancashiremagazine.co.uk to put your questions forward.

Lancashire GP 01995 238081 lancashiregp.co.uk

A - A food intolerance is when you

have difficulty digesting certain foods or ingredients in food. A food intolerance is different to a food allergy. While a food allergy results from an immune system reaction to a specific food, a food intolerance involves the digestive system rather than the immune system. Food allergy causes symptoms such as itchy skin, wheezing or swelling of the lips, face and eyes. We still don’t know why some people develop food intolerance but some conditions such as coeliac disease and inflammatory bowel disease such as crohn’s can trigger food intolerance.

if you have a food intolerance, it is important to avoid or reduce eating the food you’re intolerant to. I would recommend that these should be done under advice of a food and nutrition specialist (dietitian).

Please refer to the following website for more information: www.allergyuk.org/resources/foodintolerance/

Lancashire GP - Appointments Costs - can be as little as £65. (Bear in mind Dr Mani aims to do as much in the one appointment as she can too.)

- Beat the NHS waiting lists.

- Face to Face and Video call options.

- Appointments Promptly Scheduled and On Time.

- Blood and Smear Tests.

- Health Screening.

- Cholesterol and Blood Pressure Checks.

- Sexual Health Screening.

- Depression and Anxiety.

- Menopausal Symptoms and Treatments (Inc HRT).

- Medical Examinations: Pre-employment, Driving and Insurance.

- Speedy Referrals to Specialists.

- Personal Quality of Care

Dr. Farzaneh Mani MBChB (Hons), DRCOG, MRCGP, IMMOFP Dr. Farzaneh Mani is the founder of Lancashire GP Private GP surgery which is based at Garstang Clinic. She also works as a GP in the NHS and is fully covered by the CQC. Dr. Mani is on the GP performer’s lists and undertakes full NHS yearly appraisal.

The Lancashire GP Practice specialises in general family medicine. We also offer a prescription service, health screening, and referrals for tests and scans. Our easy connections to local hospitals mean that we are able to refer you for any necessary follow-up treatment. www.lancmag.com

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 85

10 stunning animal photos that show the North’s got talent!

Could the next winner of the RSPCA photography awards be from the North?

in Northumberland, for the 2022 Young Photographer Awards. Demmi scored the Runner Up position in the Pet Portraits category for capturing this happy moment.

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alented young photographers from the North of England will again be aiming to land the top spots in the RSPCA Young Photographer Awards.

As the 2023 deadline for entries looms, the RSPCA is calling on young northern photographers to submit their photos and showcase their skills once more.

As this year’s awards judges brace themselves for another intense judging session, the RSPCA is showcasing some of the best northern entries from the last few years.

Young photographers still have until Tuesday 15 August to enter the prestigious awards, which is now celebrating its 33rd year.

Award winning wildlife photographer and Young Photographer Awards judge, Emma Jacobs, said: “There is so much young talent in the North of England.

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“Year after year we see such strong photographs coming from our northern counties, so the question is - can northern youngsters claim top billing once again in our 2023 awards?

We can’t wait to see this year’s entries, so if you are aged 18 and under, get your submission in quick before the deadline passes!

“As the deadline looms, we’re proud to showcase some of the top photos we’ve had from northern youngsters over the years. They are all fantastic and highlight what the RSPCA Young Photographer Awards is all about!”

Radiant Ralph Hilarious pet portrait taken by Demmi Havenhand, aged 18 from Bedlington

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2. Hopeful for a white Christmas Clara Drycz, aged 15 from Rochdale, Greater Manchester caught the longing in her puppy’s eyes - as if he was wishing for just one white Christmas!

Clara submitted her emotional entry to the mobile phone and devices category in 2022.

3. Snuggled Squirrel Hugo Napier, aged 10 from York, photographed this lovely moment of human-animal connection as an orphaned squirrel is given a feed and a warm blanket. Hugo was runner up in the under 12 mobile phone and devices category for 2022.

4. The Stare Joshu Myers aged 15 from Sheffield, shot this incredible but terrifying photo in 2018 and claimed the runner up position in the aged 12-15 category. www.lancmag.com

The winners will be announced in December 2023, at an awards ceremony hosted by Chris Packham at the Tower of London.

5. Mountain Hare This striking photo came out top in the 2022 awards. 17-year-old Ben Harrott from Oldham, Greater Manchester was named The Young Photographer of the Year awards ‘overall winner’.

6. In Position This artistic shot, taken by 14-year-old Oliver Butcher from Sheffield, claimed runner up in the 12-15 photo category for the 2022 Young Photographer of the Year awards.

7. Horned Cleg Fly 18-year-old Joshua Garbut from Leeds, was named runner up in the ‘Small Word’ category in 2022 awards for this incredible close up of a horsefly.

8. Magnificent Moon Jellyfish 10-year-old Isabella Stevens from Harrogate, North Yorkshire, was commended in the 2022 awards for her stunning underwater photo.

9. Shield Bug 13-year-old Hope Skidmore, from Rotherham, South Yorkshire won the 12-15 Mobile Phone & Devices category in 2022 for her beautiful close up of a shield bug.

10. Solitario George Last, but not least, this picture of the Pinta Island Galapagos tortoise, whose death marked the final extinction of his species, was taken by 17-yearold Lucy Hutton from Hexham, Northumberland. Lucy claimed the

Young photographers can upload their images, view past galleries and find out everything they need to know at: www. rspca.org.uk/ypa. prestigious accolade of ‘overall winner’ in the 2018 awards.

There’s still time for budding young photographers to enter this year’s awards, and with 10 different categories* to choose from, there’s something for everyone, whatever their interest – and some amazing prizes to be won. All animals are welcome, from pets to wildlife, insects, farm animals and more.

Sponsors of the competition are Natures Images (wildlife photography holidays) and Camtraptions (camera traps for wildlife photography).

To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care please visit our website or call our donation line on 0300 123 8181.

TV presenter, wildlife advocate and president of the RSPCA, Chris Packham said: “I am really excited about this year’s RSPCA Young Photographer Awards and I hope many young people will get outside and photograph their favourite animals or bugs for this fantastic competition.”

Judges include: wildlife photographer and TV presenter Chris Packham; wildlife photographer and presenter Rachel Bigsby; former competition winner-turned-professional photographer Catriona Parfitt; professional wildlife photographer and photographic guide Ellie Rothnie; and RSPCA photographers Andrew Forsyth and Emma Jacobs.

The judges will award trophies to winners in each category, as well as crowning an Overall Winner. The Overall Winner will receive a weekend photography break with awardwinning wildlife photographer Danny Green’s team at Natures Images. Worth £675, this fabulous prize includes two nights’ accommodation for the winner and a parent/guardian.

www.lancmag.com

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Domestic Tourist

By David Hatton

Travel is deeply important to me.

It’s a huge passion of mine

Lancashire author, David Hatton, talks about rediscovering the UK after lockdown and how it has influenced his novels.

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OVID-19 took away so much from us. Our freedom, our ability to connect and hug, theatre, live music and a pint down at the local pub. It was a relief when we got those things which we previously took for granted back.

But in other ways we gained a lot. We could suddenly work from home and spend more time with our families rather than commuting. We learned to use technology with those people we’d usually have lost touch with due to distance. And for me, I learned the joy of domestic travel.

Travel is deeply important to me. It’s a huge passion of mine. So much so that I studied a B-TEC in Travel & Tourism here in Lancashire at Runshaw College, and then went onto study a degree in International Tourism Management at Leeds Metropolitan University (today Leeds Beckett).

Pre-Covid, besides an annual trip to the Lake District, I couldn’t wait to escape Britain for sunnier shores.

A city-break in Porto or a beachside resort in Croatia. And then all flights were cancelled in 2020 and when

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they did begin to run again, the changing border changes in regard to how progressive the infection was in each country made international travel almost impossible.

We took ourselves away to Plymouth in Devon, a back-up trip after our holiday to Greece was cancelled. I wasn’t particularly excited. I expected drizzle and the standard high street shops we had at home. But I couldn’t have been more wrong. The sun shined and we

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found a whole range of independent shops, gin distilleries, beaches and some of the country’s best restaurants.

The seafood outshone some of seaside resorts we’d tried in Europe with lobster, crab and oysters all on the menu. And I discovered British wine too, with a growing number of fantastic vineyards spreading across the country.

So, when lockdown eased and the borders opened, we didn’t rush back. Don’t get me wrong, we’ve still www.lancmag.com

enjoyed a holiday here or there in sunnier climbs, but we’ve continued to hold back some of our annual leave to explore our own island.

This year we visited Cornwall for the second time. Previously we went to Mousehole on the south coast, but this year we tried the North and ended up in Bude where we got to explore the North Devon and Cornwall coast. It was truly stunning.

I just wish the drive wasn’t so long from Lancashire!

We’ve also completed road trips of Scotland and Wales, which has some of the most striking landscapes in the world, and when we want to go to a concert on tour, we look for gigs outside of our immediate area so we can see a bit more of the country too.

Travel also helps my writing.

While some of my work is centred around Manchester and Lancashire, where I live (such as It’s the End of the World as We Know It, set in Preston, and The Catfish, set in Horwich), other novels have been set further afield. My novel The Medium about a psychic who claims to know the whereabouts of a missing woman begins in Manchester, but the story develops further in the Lake District. www.lancmag.com

One reviewer said the destinations within my books almost become characters themselves which is a huge compliment

Camp takes the reader to Berlin, where a young gay man is suddenly thrusted back into the closet as the Nazis gain popularity in Germany.

And some of my books are set further afield like in America (The Return – a 9/11 life insurance fraud thriller, and The Exhumation – where a detective is hunting down the missing body of a former president).

Travel allows me to get away, seek new experiences and generates ideas for future novels. One reviewer said the destinations within my books almost become characters themselves which is a huge compliment; I really try to create the scene so the reader can see, touch and smell the environment the characters are walking within.

My next novel will be set in Hyde, Greater Manchester and hones in on my passion and studies in tourism.

It’s called Dark Tourist and centres around a journalist exploring touristic sites associated with the darker sides of history and a lot has happened in Hyde. I plan to do some walks around the town in the near future to help develop the story and get into the space I’m writing about. I’m hoping it’ll be out next year.

All of David’s books are available as E-books or Paperbacks on Amazon.

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John Fury encourages people to support the Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone Boxing Event Organised by Technique ABC (Amateur Boxing Club)

The Blackburn and Darwen community came together to see an electrifying and inspiring event as John Fury, the renowned boxing icon and father of world champion Tyson Fury, lent his support to the Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone Boxing Event.

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This exciting

event organised by Technique ABC, promised to be a thrilling day of talent and dedication within the boxing world, demonstrating the importance of grassroots clubs. With all nine Technique ABC boxers being victorias, it is a testament to the training and effort of the young people who participated and the coaches. The event also hosted the North West Region championship finals with four of the Technique ABC boxers winning the finals who now progress to the national stages of the competition on the 15th of October, hoping to get a place in the finals weekend held in Birmingham on the 21st and 22nd of October. Two boxers had byes in the regional finals, so six Technique ABC boxers have progressed to the national finals, which is the greatest haul the club has ever had. Last year the club had two national champions in the same competition, Aaron Fletchman and Mia Bradshaw.

This is a testament to the relationship working with the Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone provides.

In the same weekend, Aaron Fletchman, current 2x North West region, Manchester Box Cup and national champion, flew to Sweden to compete in the prestigious Swedish box cup with the North West select team; Aaron came away victorious, winning both his semi-final and final bouts over international champions unanimously to collect gold. Aaron is now a youth worker at the Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone and helps coach the new up-and-coming boxers.

Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone and Technique ABC joined forces in 2020. The partnership has seen the improvement of the Boxing Gym affiliated with England Boxing, regularly hosting North West Region Boxing Competitions.

The partnership has meant that more local youngsters can try boxing for free, train and compete. Technique ABC currently has over 50 active boxers and over 110 students who regularly train at the Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone.

John Fury, who needed no introduction to the boxing world, graced the occasion with his presence, offering support and encouragement to young and aspiring boxers from Blackburn and the surrounding areas.

His endorsement of the event underscored the significance of community engagement and mentorship in nurturing the sport’s future stars. www.lancmag.com

John Fury expressed his excitement about the event, saying: “I’m at the championships here, for the amateur championships at Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone. I want to let people know how important it is for events like this to take place; I want to thank all the people who have put it together and everyone who’s contributed. These events are very important to showcase young people in the area and support boxing throughout Great Britain.”

The Boxing Event hosted by Technique ABC, in partnership with Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone, took place on 30th September. The event featured a series of exhilarating boxing matches, showcasing the immense talent and dedication of young boxers who had been honing their skills under the guidance of Technique ABC. Technique ABC, the driving force behind the Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone Boxing Gym, is dedicated to training and mentoring young boxers in the borough area—their commitment to nurturing talent and promoting community unity aligned perfectly with John Fury’s vision.

“We were thrilled to have had John Fury join us in our efforts to uplift and inspire the youth of Blackburn through the sport of boxing,” said Shaun Litherland, Head Coach for Technique ABC. “His presence and support undoubtedly motivated our young athletes to strive for excellence both inside and outside the ring. We were grateful for his endorsement and looked forward to an unforgettable evening of boxing.”

Wayne Wild, Trustee of Blackburn & Daren Youth Zone, emphasised the significance of the ‘Next Level’ sports offer’ and said: “As a trustee of Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone, we want to make a difference and give opportunities to young people in Blackburn with Darwen. We have countless examples of how, through positive activities, we can make a difference to the lives of young people.

Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone allows individuals, companies, and grantmakers to collaborate and contribute to this essential initiative. The provision of funding plays a pivotal role in empowering the youth and fostering lasting positive changes within the community.

The ultimate goal of the ‘Next Level’ vision is to open up new opportunities and avenues for young people to engage in constructive activities, thereby creating an equitable playing field for all and addressing any potential barriers to their progress.

If you represent a business, individual, a sports club, or a funder and are keen on supporting our “Next Level” sports offer, we encourage you to reach out and connect with us”.

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 91

Pageant historian and judge Sally-Ann Fawcett - author of the Misdemeanours: Beauty Queen Scandals series and The Official History of Miss Great Britain - was a judge and award presenter at the PIAs last weekend. Here is her report from an evening of pure unashamed glamour.

T

he Pageant Industry Awards The PIAs - took place on 23rd September in the grand surroundings of the Wychwood Park Hotel, Crewe, and it proved to be a night as glamorous as those receiving the trophies.

The brainchild of two 1980s beauty queens, Debbie Hughes and Laura White, the PIAs celebrated its third year with its biggest evening yet, combined as usual with the Miss Pageant Queen contest to a sell-out audience.

The night was hosted by former Miss England Kat Hodge, whose energetic stage presence, dance moves and costume changes kept us all entertained and which has become an annual highlight!

I was honoured to judge the Miss Pageant Queen contest again, and also to present my own Sally-Ann Fawcett Award to the beauty queen I felt had shone over the last twelve months.

This year my award went to the beautiful Emma Rose Collingridge, who

had driven all the way from Ipswich to attend. In July, Emma achieved the UK’s highest ever placing in the Miss Supranational pageant in Poland, finishing third runner-up, and is also a previous Miss Universe top 16 finalist.

Emma also received the Inspirational Queen Award in tribute to her pageant career spanning an entire decade.

I was also asked to choose an inaugural Iconic Queen award winner, to celebrate a beauty queen from the heyday of pageantry. As a child of the 70s and 80s I was fortunate enough to grow up in an era in which pageants were mainstream TV entertainment and, in my eyes, nobody embodied that time more than Jan Garsden.

Jan, who competed under her maiden name of Janet Withey, was one of Lancashire’s most successful beauty queens and won dozens of titles during the 70s, including Butlin’s Holiday Princess of Great Britain, Miss Britain, Miss Blackpool, Miss New Brighton

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Photography: Brian Hayes Photography

The PIAs and Miss Pageant Queen and Southport’s English Rose. After retiring from pageants she became a foster carer and wrote a well-received memoir, Part of the Family.

I presented two further awards: the Best New Director trophy to the aforementioned Kat Hodge, who now stages the Miss Supranational UK final; and the Lifetime Achievement award to Vicky Bennett, holder of over 40 titles in the 80s including Miss Blackpool, Miss Cleethorpes, Miss Sunny Rhyl, as well as finishing runner-up twice to Miss Great Britain.

After several rounds of the Miss Pageant Queen contest, more awards were handed out, covering all aspects of the pageant industry, including Hair, Make-up, Photography, Coaching and Special Achievement. At the end of an exciting and fun evening, eight beautiful and inspiring ladies were crowned winners of their categories, and while we retired to the bar for a celebration toast, the glitter and glamour was packed away for another year.

If you would like a chance to enter Miss Pageant Queen 2024 - a contest for ages 12 to no maximum upper limit - go to misspageantqueen.com for details. And who knows, in years to come you too may be in the running for a Lifetime Achievement Award…

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 000 www.lancmag.com

s e l o h k c o r B e r y a F r e t n i W 3

2 0 2 h t 8 st & 1 r e b m Dece m 5pm - 9p

Join the festivities with Santa, craft stalls, live music, entertainment and a free warming beverage on us.

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Book tickets online now! brockholes.org

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 93

The importance of voting for wildlife Nature and the environment have not been on the agenda in a decade of general elections, referendums and leadership contests. And the Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside is asking nature lovers to demand that wildlife is at the top of the agenda in next year’s General Election in a campaign named #VoteWildlife.

Wildlife Trusts Chief Executive Craig Bennet said: “The next government will be the one responsible for ensuring 30 per cent of our land and sea is connected and protected for nature’s recovery by 2030.”

In the North West, the Trust will be asking members and supporters to support its five key asks for any future government.

And they must let prospective parliamentary candidates and sitting MPs know that their votes will depend on policies to: • Bring back our lost wildlife • End river pollution • Fund wildlife-friendly farming • Green our communities • Tackle the climate emergency These asks are based on the Wildlife Trusts’ campaigns to ensure 30 per cent of the UK is set aside for wildlife by 2030 and to ensure that one in four people take action for nature. The Trusts believe it would be the beginning of a reversal of the biodiversity crisis that is threatening mass extinctions of species across the planet. Dr Tom Burditt, Chief Executive of the Lancashire Wildlife Trust said: “We are in a dual climate and nature crisis and the two are inextricably linked. It’s not just something that you see on TV, we are finding plants

Birds like the grey wagtail depend on clean rivers by Carl Partingtoon

and animals vanishing from our moorlands, woodlands and rivers.

“Here at your local Wildlife Trust we are proud to have a focus on practical positive action for nature that we can all be taking together, but we also desperately need government policy to be supporting us: leading us through its policies, laws, schemes and financial investments to be doing the right things to ensure that we genuinely leave the natural world in a better state for our children.”

The Lancashire Wildlife Trust

The Lancashire Wildlife Trust The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside is dedicated to the protection and promotion of the wildlife in Lancashire, seven boroughs of Greater Manchester and four of Merseyside, all lying north of the River Mersey. It manages around 40 nature reserves and 20 Local Nature Reserves covering acres of woodland, wetland, upland and meadow. The Trust has 30,000 members, and over 1,200 volunteers.

To become a member of the Trust go to the website at www.lancswt.org.uk or call 01772 324129.

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Dippers are at threat in polluted rivers by Peter Smith (Mobile)

campaign has been launched just as the publication of the State of Nature 2023 report is proving that wildlife is in need of urgent help.

The report, by the UK’s leading conservation organisations, shows: • One in six species is now at risk of being lost from Great Britain • The wildlife studied has, on average, declined by 19 per cent since monitoring began in 1970 • Most important habitats are in poor condition, though restoration projects have clear benefits for nature, people and adapting to climate change Lancashire Wildlife Trust President Chris Davies said: “Policymakers should not underestimate the concern that people feel about damage to nature and the loss of species. The wish to halt and reverse the decline in biodiversity is widely shared. www.lancmag.com

“We all have a role to play in ensuring that the issue becomes a regular feature of political discussions, and the Wildlife Trusts have the particular task of demonstrating in practical ways that we really can make a difference for the better, and ensure that there is an abundance of life.”

People’s concern about nature loss, climate change and degraded wild places is a significant voting issue.

The Wildlife Trusts are calling on politicians of all parties to commit to an ambitious programme of policies to support nature’s recovery.

And the Lancashire Wildlife Trust wants the region to lead the way with millions of voices joining our movement, getting nature higher on the agenda and persuading politicians to support our #VoteWildlife campaign.

The Manchester argus butterfly has been returned to Manchester by the Lancashire Wildlife Trust

by Alan Wright

To learn more about Lancashire Wildlife Trust’s #VoteWildlife campaign to our website www.lancswt.org.uk/vote-wildlife-2024

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 95

Oli France and his mountainous Ultimate Seven Project

Adventurer Oli France, 32, lives in Standish with his wife and two young children. He has been spending over 10 years completing remarkable adventures all across the globe. Oli has faced avalanches, earthquakes, minefields, spies, arrest and severe dehydration. His journeys have taken him through mountains, jungles, deserts and warn-torn regions across 70+ countries. Oli, who studied outdoor leadership at the University of Lancaster, also guides others on their own adventures through his company Wild Edge.

“I have personally travelled to over 75 countries and guided over 500 travellers from all walks of life through over 30 countries. My clients have included a wide range of travellers, including billionaires, ex-CIA officers, terminal cancer patients, reformed criminals and drag queens.”

He has now turned his attention to an even bigger challenge, which will see him travel the world, using only his own power to get from the lowest point in each continent to the highest. The Ultimate Seven Project is an incredible feat that has never been done before.

The first leg of his journey began in Africa, travelling from Lac Assal, in Djibouti, to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.

Oli stated: “I set out from Lac Assal by bike in temperatures of 45°C. A 1,636-mile journey followed, through four countries – Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania. Along the way, I faced thunderstorms, extreme heat, hostility – rocks and knives thrown at me, chased with sticks and by motorbikes – brutal winds, police shakedowns, attempted extortion and wild animals.

“The 18-day cycle involved over 24,000 metres of climbing – equivalent to 2.7 Everests.

After reaching Machame Gate on Kilimanjaro, I continued the journey on foot to reach the Roof of Africa while guiding a team of fellow trekkers.

Oli has faced avalanches, earthquakes, minefields, spies, arrest and severe dehydration

“This is the first major milestone in The Ultimate Seven Project – my world-first quest to journey from the lowest point in each continent to the highest, through jungles, seas, deserts, mountains, war-zones and polar regions.”

Oli, a self-confessed adrenaline junkie, still has six more continents to travel to, the next stop being South America. He has been sponsored by clothing companies Canada Goose and Le Col, but still needs to raise more funding for his expensive challenge.

“Africa was probably the easiest of the continents. The Asia leg will be huge; starting at the Dead Sea in Jordan, and travelling by bike for over 4,000 miles through eight countries to reach the base of Mount Everest, from where I’ll continue to the summit on foot.

“I train very regularly. This year I have run two ultra-marathons. I typically train at least once if not twice a day including running, cycling, gym work and lots of mountain walking as well.

“The project will involve 13,000 miles of human travel. It’s a huge undertaking, but it’s very exciting.”

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FEBLAND

FURNITURE | LIGHTING | ART & GIFTS

St YLiS H BAR R ooM F UR N i t UR E A N D AC C ESSo R i E S

LU X U R i o U S D iN i N G tA B LE S A N D R o o M SEtS

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FA B U Lo U S Li G H t i N G A N D H oM E D E Co R

Febland Group Ltd Flag House, Ashworth Road Blackpool, Lancashire, FY4 4UN

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Gift Guide Gordon Rigg Garden Centre, Todmorden, established in 1945 is one of the largest Garden Centres in the North West, enjoying over 60,000 square feet of retail space and was voted best Garden Centre in the North, 2nd best in the UK by Which? Magazine!

Tom Chambers Hetton Rocking Bench - £199.99

Avant 5L Stake Light, 5pc Carry Pack - £24.99

Cancun Side Tables Set of 2 - £49.99

Aruba Casual Corner Dining Rattan Set - £1,299.99

Todmorden - Garden Centre, Farm Shop & Tea Room

Rochdale - Garden Centre & Bistro

01706 813374

01706 356089

Gordon Rigg Garden Centre, Rochdale Road (A6033), Walsden, Todmorden OL14 7TJ

Moss Bridge Road, Kingsway (A664), Rochdale, OL16 4UX Junction 20/21 of M62

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Tom Chambers Oakwell Handcrafted Nest Box£16.99

Norfolk Arbour with Storage Box - £349.99

www.gordonrigg.com

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Tom Chambers 2 Port Tube Seed Feeder - £4.99

Granada 90cm Cast Iron Chimenea £149.99

Moda Taupe Wall Clock - £24.99

Charles Taylor Devonshire Arch - £129.99

Autumn / Winter Hanging Baskets - £12.99

Tom Chambers Ferndale Bird Table - £89.99

Gordon Rigg Gift Voucher Charles Taylor Dorset 2 Seater Swing Bench - £359.99

Get helpful tips on our website

www.lancmag.com

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Gift Guide

To visit Dawson’s Art and Crafts Emporium please find their information on their Facebook page ‘Dawsons Arts and Crafts Emporium’ or call 07904 525280.

Dawsons Art and Craft Emporium 15 the Crescent, Lytham St Annes, FY8 1SZ. 100

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Christmas at Cole the Jewellers

Gift ideas for her

UNOde50 Take Me Bracelet £95.00

UNOde50 Linda Necklace £215.00

UNOde50 Linda Bracelet £140.00

ChloBo Enlightened Necklace £79.00

ChloBo Guiding Love Malachite Set of 2 Bracelets £145.00

ChloBo Loving Light Bracelet £69.00

Fiorelli

Fiorelli

Fiorelli

Fiorelli

Teardrop Gold PLated

Gold PLated Teardrop

Medallion Silver

Medallion Silver

Pendant £95.00

Earrings £98.00

Earrings £95.00

Pendant £90.00

30 - 34 Highfield Road, South shore, Blackpool, Fy4 2JA • 01253 341410 • W. www.colethejewellers.co.uk 102

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Christmas at Cole the Jewellers

Thomas Sabo Moon & Star Charm £79.00

Thomas Sabo Rainbow Together Bracelet £129.00

Thomas Sabo Pink Stone Stud Earrings £119.00

Hot Diamonds Forever Drop Earrings £75.00

Hot Diamonds Forever Drop Pendant £140.00

Hot Diamonds Much Loved Bangle £195.00

HD X JJ Calm Mother of Pearl Pendant £95.00

HD X JJ Spirit Earrings £110.00

HD X JJ Spirit Pendant £85.00

30 - 34 Highfield Road, South shore, Blackpool, Fy4 2JA • 01253 341410 • W. www.colethejewellers.co.uk www.lancmag.com

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Christmas at Cole the Jewellers

Gift ideas for him

Rotary Ultra Slim Watch £219.00

Rotary Cambridge Watch £235.00

Silver Bracelet £80.00

Rotary Ultra Slim Watch £209.00

Fred Bennett Silver Square Cufflinks £150.00

Fred Bennett Curb Necklace 22″ £215.00

Rotary Cambridge Gents Watch £169.00

Fred Bennett Cork Double Row Bracelet £28.00

Fred Bennet Silver Round Signet Ring £75.00

30 - 34 Highfield Road, South shore, Blackpool, Fy4 2JA • 01253 341410 • W. www.colethejewellers.co.uk 104

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Christmas at Cole the Jewellers

Tissot PRX Automatic Chrono £1620.00

Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 Watch £610.00

Tissot Seastar 1000 Chrono Watch £535.00

Tissot Seastar 2000 Professional Powermatic 80 £1015.00

30 - 34 Highfield Road, South shore, Blackpool, Fy4 2JA • 01253 341410 • W. www.colethejewellers.co.uk www.lancmag.com

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Gift Guide

Farfield Mill is art craft and heritage gallery set on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales.

Housed in a former Victorian Woollen Mill, our 3 gallery spaces, artists’ studios, power looms and handlooms are set over four floors, displaying, and selling a range of contemporary craft, art, and jewellery, handcrafted, and designed near in the Mill and surround area.

handcrafted belts Allan Twigg £45

Horse shoe trivet £35 Heart Hooks £38 Heart Poker £75 John Law

Jill Pargeter Textiles lavender heart and festive bird £10 in our craft gallery 106

Large Ceramic bowl £85 Soap dish £22 Pendant £16 by Frances Lumber ceramics Garsdale Yorkshire Dales

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lampwork bracelet £35 Anna Tillman

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Vicki Malley resident artist Christmas spice wool filed sachets with detachable sheep brooch made using felted wool £8

Vicki Malley Handmade Christmas Card with sheepskin sheep

Vicki Malley resident artist glasses cases with detachable sheep brooch made using felted wool £14 Vicki Malley sheepskin sheep cushions priced from £20 filled with wool and hand finished

Wilderness Woodworks sycamore tree £32 cherry or panga panga tree £16 each in our craft gallery

weaving brooch kit £12 woven brooch £28 Gemma Louise Taylor

Vicki Malley woolcraft sheepskin fleece sheep cushions £20 glasses case £14 Christmas spice wool filled sachets £8

We are here for each other original pastel and foliage Susannah Harpham £48

Gift Vouchers available from £10.00 to £250.00

Gneiss Rugs £95 Brown www.lancmag.com

Gneiss Rugs £95 LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 107

Peacock limited edition lino print by Stuart Wilkie and framed £65 Farfield Mill

Little beau sheep felted soaps £14 Farfield Mill Sedbergh

large medium and bud vases by Ella McIntosh Farfield Mill Craft Gallery £95 £65 £45

Perfectly Plumptious original acrylic on Snowy Owl original pastel and foliage canvas Susannah Harpham £45 Susannah Harpham £45

Carl Malley Herdwick on the Fells Graphite pencil print £10

Carl Malley Pheasant in Snow Greeting Card £2.50

100% wool hat £35 and scarf £40 created by Resident Artist Anglea Bradley Farfield Mill Sedbergh

christmas pine candles Carl Malley Herdwick on the Fells Graphite pencil print £10 108

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christmas felted things and decorations

Carl Malley Robin in Snow greeting cards £2.50

Carl Malley Swaledale Tup Christmas Greeting Card £2.50

Gneiss Rugs £95 blue

Carl Malley Swaledale Tup Coloured Pencil Print £10

Carl Malley Swaledale and Lamb graphite Pencil Print £10

Carl Malley Robin Digital painting Print £10 CmstudioArt Eagle Owl limited edition wood engraving print by Stuart Wilkie mounted and framed £45 Farfield Mill

Exhibitions | Artists’ Studios | Heritage Workshops | Craft Gallery | Tea Room Please check out our website for opening days and times.

Closed 24th December - 9th January.

Carsdale Road, Sedbergh Cumbria, LA10 5LW www.lancmag.com

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Give the gift of love... ...this Christmas and sponsor a horse or pony at HAPPA (Horses and Ponies Protection Association) and receive a beautiful welcome pack with photo and blog from your chosen equine.

A great gift for a pony mad child or equine enthusiast. Sponsor A HAPPA Horse £51 per annum/ £4.25 per month direct debit.

Beautiful two-tone stirrup bracelet £18.50 Crafty Pony £25 Foal £15

Horse lovers water bottle £18.99

Dog mug £6.99

HAPPA have a great selection of Christmas Cards, just £3.50 per pack of 10.

Gifts and Christmas Cards can be purchased by calling 01282 455992 or visiting www.happadirect.co.uk or Shores Hey Farm BB10 3QU 110

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Gift Card Guide

North Lakes Hotel and Spa is ideal for exploring this beautiful part of England or simply relaxing in our award-winning spa and enjoying our AA Rosette FYR Grill restaurant.

Below is just a sample of our gift cards.

To see the full collection go to https://gifts.thwaites.co.uk/collection/north-lakes-hotel-spa For more information or to book your visit to North Lakes Hotel and Spa, please contact the reservations team on 01768 868111 or email reservations@northlakeshotel.co.uk

Signature treatment experience

Monetary gift card

This luxurious treatment starts with a cleansing and exfoliation of the back, followed by a back massage to ease away stress and tension. As your body is relaxed we treat and hydrate your skin with a TEMPLESPA facial for you, finishing with a Cranial Scalp massage to calm the mind.

Give someone a gift they will remember with a Daniel Thwaites experience. Our gift cards are available from £20 and can be spent on food, drink, spa and accommodation at any Daniel Thwaites hotel or inn as listed on our website - www.danielthwaites.co.uk/properties

This voucher is valid at all Daniel Thwaites Spa Hotels.

Card valid for 2 years after purchase.

£103.00

£20.00

The Afternoon ritual

One night short break for two

If you are looking for a leisurely swim and relaxing spa treatment, followed by a delicious afternoon tea whilst tucked up in your robe and slippers overlooking the pool, then this is perfect Spa Day for you. With full use of the Spa facilities, afternoon tea plus a 55 Minute Treatment, or your choice of two 25 minute treatments, you can simply spend a few glorious hours enjoying some me-time or with family and friends. See our list of treatments on our hotel website.

Relax and unwind in one of our stunning hotels, all located in the perfect location to explore the local area. Or simply switch off and enjoy what each hotel has to offer, from spas to Rosette restaurants. This voucher includes; a bottle of house Champagne on arrival, a food allowance per person towards your evening dinner, breakfast and use of the hotel Spa facilities.

This voucher is valid at all Daniel Thwaites Spa Hotels.

This voucher is valid at all Daniel Thwaites Spa Hotels.

£120.00

£270.00

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Joseph Clothing Christmas Gift Guide ‘Baldessarini’ Coat - Classic Tailoring

‘Roy Robson’ Tailoring At It’s Best

‘Acqua Di Bolgheri’ - The Ultimate In Tuscan Fragrances For Men

‘Roy Robson’ - Smart Casual Or Formal, The Choice Is Yours ‘Roy Robson’ - Everything For Layering

‘Tramarossa’ Jeans - The Ultimate In Deminwear

‘Tramaross’ Jeans ... The Best Jeans In The World

‘Paul Smith’ Trainers - You’ll Never Want Any Others

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‘Gran Sasso’ - Luxury Italian Knitwear

‘Paul Smith’ Beanie Hat (Various Colours Avilable) £65 ‘Gran Sasso’ Polo Shirts, In Both Long & Short Sleeve

‘Paul Smith’ Sunglasses Various Styles & Colours

‘Paul Smith’ Socks Gift Box (Various Designs) £60

‘Paul Smith’ Down & Stretch Panel Jacket

‘Paul Smith’ Merino Wool Scarves ( Various Colours) £90 ‘Baldessarini’ Jeans Beautiful Fit Using Only Premium Fabrics www.lancmag.com

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Honeywells Farm Shop honeywellfarmshop.com

ANTIPASTI BOARD

BREAKFAST PACKS

WHOLE TURKEY

GIFT SELECTION 114

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DELICATESSAN

GLAZED HAM www.lancmag.com

Honeywells Farm Shop

honeywellfarmshop.com

TURKEY AND BACON

SAUSAGE ROLLS

PORK JOINTS www.lancmag.com

BEEF RIBS

PIGS IN BLANKETS

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5

18ct yellow & white gold diamond drop earrings £1450

Stackers jewellery box £60

2

Sterling silver and hand enamelled animals from £50

3

Diamond set scatter rings from £695

4

Solitaire diamond stud earrings from £175

6

Lab grown 1.52ct diamond pendant £1300

7

9ct white gold emerald & diamond pendant £225

8

18ct white gold ruby & diamond pendant £ 4500

9ct white gold diamond set heart earrings £135

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18ct white gold circle of diamonds pendant £1695

12

9

9ct yellow gold ruby & diamond scatter ring £825

10

13

Platinum aquamarine and diamond cluster ring £3395

14

18ct yellow gold green tourmaline and diamond ring £2995

15

9ct yellow gold open circle cubic zirconia earrings £64.50

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9ct yellow gold drop earrings £105

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18ct White & Yellow Gold 1.50ct Skyline Diamond Pendant £3100

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Diamond set bangles in 9ct & 18ct gold from £950

20

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9ct yellow gold sapphire & diamond cluster pendant £420

9ct yellow gold clover pendant £160

Thomas Sabo sterling silver pearl & cubic zirconia bracelet £79

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Uno de 50 statement necklace £195

22

Ortak sterling silver large Leah enamel pendant £166

23

Tianguis Jackson sterling silver bangle £98.50

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25

Lucy Quartermaine sterling silver petals bracelet £155

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Lucy Quartermaine sterling silver shard necklace £165

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Hot Diamond sterling silver orbit pendant £ 95

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Sterling silver bee stud earrings £26

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Clogau vine of life pendant £149

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Ania Haie 14ct gold plated pearl earrings £35

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Ania Haie 14ct gold plated midnight star pendant £55

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Kit Heath sterling silver entwine drop earrings £135

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Dollie sterling silver hearts bracelet £45

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Tianguis Jackson sterling silver pendant £40

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Nomination composable bracelets from £25

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Nomination sterling silver and cubic zirconia bracelet £69

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Sterling silver open ovals cuff bangle £275

Georg Jensen sterling silver moonlight grapes earrings £250

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Eco-friendly Christmas gifts Check out the RSPB’s new Christmas Look Book for gifts, home items, tree decorations, cards everything you need for an eco-friendly Christmas!

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Wrapping, cards, crackers, and decorations With our Christmas cards and wrapping paper we’ve taken the guesswork out of recycling. All are recyclable without any foil or glitter, and the wrapping paper is printed with water-based inks that reduce toxins released into our environment. Even our crackers are recyclable and plastic-free - with delightful little gifts inside...trivia games, pins, chocolates, or decorations, you decide!

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The perfect gifts Avoid the panic of last-minute present buying with these sustainable gifts that will last – and give back to nature at the same time!

Plastic-free Christmas jumpers - an estimated 95% of Christmas jumpers contain plastic in the form of acrylic or polyester fabric – but not the RSPB jumper. Check out this organic cotton, plastic-free unisex RSPB jumper, featuring a moonlit wood. £35

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from the RSPB! Vegan toiletries - choose from the RSPB’s Revie and Restore ranges bath oil gift sets, lip balm, candles, everything you need to decompress.

Organic cotton scarves - these gorgeous scarves are all made of organic cotton, ensuring ecologically and socially responsible production, limited water use, and safe working conditions. £18 each.

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Nature-friendly chocolates - our new drinking chocolate and truffles are wonderful giftable additions to our Gola chocolate range. Gola Rainforest chocolate is made from sustainable, ethical and environmentally conscious grown cocoa. Profit from the sales of this range helps to protect Sierra Leone’s threatened wildlife and supports Gola Rainforest communities. It is good for farmers and good for the rainforest.

Children’s gifts and games Puzzles, Top Trumps, plushies, bugnoculars, and even a brand new RSPB Cluedo game - it’s all here!

For the full range of Christmas goodies and wildlife products, please visit: shopping.rspb.org.uk

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Sarah Layton DIAMOND SKYLINE PENDANT, 1.50CT - 18CT WHITE & YELLOW GOLD £3,695.00

Ti Sento MILANO ZODIAC SAGITTARIUS PENDANT - GOLD/ SILVER - 6826SA £129.00

Sarah Layton DIAMOND SKYLINE DROP EARRINGS, 1.53CT - 18CT YELLOW & WHITE GOLD £3,395.00

Sarah Layton is an award-winning family jewellery boutique situated in the heart of the picturesque Ribble Valley. Established in 2010, we’re home to a diverse collection of renowned jewellery designers and trend-led brands, as well as our own in-house diamond & gemstone collections, piercing studio and workshop.

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Metier MINI HEXA RUBY QUARTZ STUD EARRING - GOLD - STHEX-RUBQ £75.00 Metier 9ct gold jewellery from £45

Chlobo REFLECT SODALITE SET OF 2 BRACELETS - SILVER - SBSET33663368 £145.00

Sarah Layton RADIANT CUT GREEN TOURMALINE RING, 3.59CT 18CT YELLOW GOLD £5,450.00 Shaun Leane HOOK SIZE 2 EARRINGS - GOLD LARGE - HT009.YVNAEOS £375.00

We specialise in bespoke jewellery design, remodelling & repairs. Our onsite workshop, resident goldsmith and designers mean we can turn your jewellery dreams into reality. From sourcing natural or lab-grown diamonds and unusual gemstones to breathing new life into old, unworn or inherited jewellery, our expert team can guide you through the exciting process of creating your perfect piece of jewellery from start to finish. www.lancmag.com

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George Jensen BLOOM BOTANICA TAPER CANDLEHOLDER - GOLD STAINLESS STEEL - 10020195 £179.00

Astley Clarke DECO GREEN AGATE DETAIL BRACELET - GOLD 48008YGRB £195.00

Sarah Layton DIAMOND BUBBLE POP RING, 1.35CT - PLATINUM £4,875.00

Sarah Layton DIAMOND CROSS OVER RING, 0.97CT - 18CT YELLOW & WHITE GOLD £2,250.00 122

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Georg Jensen ARC BANGLE M/L - SILVER 2000132100ML £895.50 www.lancmag.com

Jewellery to inspire | www.sarahlayton.co.uk Garmin MARQ GOLFER GEN 2 SMART WATCH, 46MM GREEN - 010-02648-21 £1,999.00

Garmin FENIX 7X PRO, 51MM, SAPPHIRE SOLAR EDITION - CARBON GREY DLC TITANIUM WITH BLACK BAND 010-02778-11 £929.00 Hamilton KHAKI FIELD EXPEDITION AUTO GENTS WATCH H70225510 £965.00

SKagen HAGEN THREE-HAND LADIES WATCH - ROSE GOLD - SKW3095 £149.00 www.lancmag.com

Garmin VENU 3S SMART WATCH, 41MM - GOLD/ FRENCH GREY - 010-02785-55 £499.00

+44 1254 822062 71 KING STREET, WHALLEY, BB7 9SW MONDAY - FRIDAY: 9:30AM - 5:30PM SATURDAY: 9:30AM - 5:00PM - SUNDAY: CLOSED Open Sundays in December up to Christmas 11am - 4pm LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 123

GRANARY FIELDS 2 - 5 bedroom homes Tithebarn Street, Poulton-le-Fylde

07808 910704 | callum@baxterltd.co.uk | baxterhomes.co.uk 124

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Marketing Suite Opening October 2023

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The Precious Element

Maurizio Bocchi - Agrichef at La Locanda, Gisburn

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s we approach the end of the year, my wife Cinzia and I have much to celebrate.

We opened our restaurant, La Locanda in the heart of Lancashire’s Ribble Valley back in 2003 and this December we mark the restaurant’s 20th Anniversary.

We also celebrate the Olive Harvest in Italy.

A lifelong friendship The key to excellence in an extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) is the scrupulous oversight of the entire production process, from the olive grove to each individual bottle.

Our producers Gabrielloni Olio create the highest quality EVOO by following the traditional methods of hand-picked and pressed olive fruits to make sure their extra virgin olive oil is the best.

Residing in their home town of Recanati, in the Marche region of Italy, the Gabrielloni family has produced their world acclaimed extra-virgin olive oil since 1955. Sisters Elisabetta and Gabriella are the third generation to run Frantoio Gabrielloni, managing both the olive trees and mill.

This is not just a business partnership but a lifelong friendship.

Deep routed in tradition In the Gabrielloni olive groves, the olives are harvested early on, just as they begin to take on their final colour. This ensures that the olive oil is full of aromas hinting at fresh fruit and greenery, with heightened levels of polyphenols, low acidity and exceptional taste and scent.

The olives are harvested exclusively with the hand-stripping method, making it possible to select them one by one.

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Only fresh, healthy olives transported in special crates reach the mill, where they are processed after 2 hours from the harvest.

Deep rooted in tradition, the mill is one of the few remaining to use the age old method of pressing olives with fiscoli.

Quale Aperitivo?

A traditional aperitif at Christmas time does not have to be a simple Prosecco. As served at our recent Extra Virgin Olive Oil symposium, why not create an APER-OIL SPRITZ with some Italian extra virgin olive oil: Recipe: 120ml Prosecco, 50ml Aperol, 14ml extra virgin olive oil (delicate, light fruity, with note of tomato and fresh grass).

Chunky slice of fresh orange, Ice …Mix all together and stir very well “For Italians, Christmas is an important time – not only an occasion that has religious meaning but a time for family and friends to come together to celebrate the good things in life; and to an Italian, that of course includes delicious food and drink.” Buon Natale!

Maurizio

Join me on my adventure as Agrichef on Wheels at https://agrichef.co.uk/agrichef/ La Locanda, Main Street, Gisburn, Lancashire, BB7 4HH 01200 445303 eat@lalocanda.co.uk

All photographs courtesy of Sarah Valentine Photography

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BOOK NOW

for Christmas!

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La Locanda e: eat@lalocanda.co.uk | t: 01200 445303 | www.lalocanda.co.uk @lalocandagisburn | Main Street, Gisburn, Lancashire BB7 4HH LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 127

Campaign for a healthier future: Introducing Extra Virgin Olive Oil as a sixth element of the daily diet

Taste Lancashire Ambassador and Agrichef Maurizio Bocchi successfully launched his Extra Virgin Olive Oil for a Healthier Future campaign at his Ribble Valley restaurant, La Locanda on Monday 18th September 2023.

Above: Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Gabrielloni, Italy – Agrichef Maurizio Bocchi’s healthier future campaign

O

live oil has been on our supermarket shelves and in our kitchens for many years. A staple ingredient that is gaining increasing attention in the media and on cookery shows.

Speaking at the event, Agrichef Maurizio Bocchi said: “There has been one key component which has inspired my culinary journey as a chef. It is always at the core of my cooking and that ingredient is the highest quality, extra virgin olive oil. An integral ingredient at the heart of Italian cooking for millenia, and to understand why, is to unravel the deeper benefits of this superfood ingredient.”

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Above: Guests take part in Extra Virgin Olive Oil tasting hosted by Elisabetta Gabrielloni from Frantoio Gabrielloni in Italy

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As well as enjoying an olive oil inspired lunch created by Agrichef Maurizio, speakers took guests on a journey of discovery - addressing the health benefits of a Mediterranean diet; and most importantly introducing Extra Virgin Olive Oil (or EVOO) as a sixth element of the daily diet.

Certainly, it could be described as the nectar of the gods: Elisabetta Gabrielloni from Frantoio Gabrielloni in Italy hosted olive oil tasting and spoke of extra virgin olive oil’s history, production and processes.

Writer and Italian journalist Luigi Caricato has published many books on the topic of extra virgin olive oil. Also the founder and director of Olio Officina Magazine and Festival, Luigi spoke on the media and public’s perception of extra virgin olive oil.

Professor James Fildes (CEO and Chief Scientist/professor of experimental surgery) and Dr Tim Entwistle (founding scientist) from Pebble Biotechnology Laboratories in Wilmslow.

Presented their findings following NHS clinical trials focussed on diet; including evaluating the impact of low-fat and Mediterranean inspired diets.

Left: Beef carpaccio with Ascolana Dura EVOO, one of the EVOO inspired dishes served to guests

An inspired lunch using EVOO from Gabrielloni:

Manfredi - Agricultural Attaché from the Italian Embassy in London, wine and olive oil importers, award-winning chefs, Booths, Visit Lancashire as well as regional press and media.

• Lancashire potted shrimps with Laudato EVOO (replacing butter with Italian extra virgin olive oil) • Bruschetta al pomodoro with Solivo EVOO • Beef carpaccio with Ascolana Dura EVOO • Pappa al Pomodoro with Laudato EVOO • Tortelloni rossi con caprino with Laudato EVOO • Lemon semifreddo with Mignola EVOO • Chocolate truffles with Piantone del Mogliano EVOO A notable guest list included the Mayor of Ribble Valley, Councillor Mark Hindle, County Councillor Alan Cullens BEM, Gabriella Migliore - Italian Trade Agency (ITA) London, Gabriella www.lancmag.com

Right: Tortelloni rossi con caprino with Laudato EVOO

Guest Natalie Christopher from Lancashire & North West Magazine said “A wonderful event, with evidence-based information as the platform for a positive and healthy collaboration between the two countries. The food was absolutely second to none, perfectly crafted where the olive oil was part of the beautiful flavours. All of the speakers were top class, with olive oil being the star of the show. We can’t wait to see what is next for Agrichef Maurizio as his Extra Virgin Olive Oil for a Healthier Future campaign grows.”

Above: Agrichef Maurizio Bocchi speaking with guests Gabriella Migliore (Italian Trade Agency, London) and Gabriella Manfredi (Agricultural Attache from the Italian Embassy, London)

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Wind Down At 19 The Wine Bar

Tina and Colin invite customers to relax and unwind at 19 The Wine Bar, Kendal. With its unique blend of history, delectable offerings, and commitment to local produce, 19 The Wine Bar is the perfect place to enjoy a scrumptious lunch, sip on a bespoke cocktail or hunker down with a craft beer.

A Glimpse into Kendal’s Oldest Wine Bar Nestled in the heart of Kendal, a picturesque town in the scenic Lake District of England, lies the charismatic and cosy ‘19 The Wine Bar’.

This charming family run establishment, owned by married couple Tina and Colin, has a rich history dating back several decades and has been an integral part of Kendal’s cultural and culinary scene since 1984. The grade two listed building initially began its journey as a grain store, however it was converted into a wine bar by the previous owner in the 1980’s where it became synonymous with good times and quality food and drink. Tina and Colin then took over in 2018, where they have worked tirelessly to make 19 The Wine Bar the cosy, relaxed establishment it is today, all while offering quality, often locally sourced food and drink.

Serving as both a cafe during the day and a wine bar in the evenings, 19 The Wine Bar caters for every occasion. The rooftop terrace also serves as the ideal location for customers to relax in a sun drenched oasis in the Summer, or cosy up under outdoor heaters in the Winter months.

With it having recently won a ‘Trip Advisor Certificate Of Excellence, Travellers Choice’ it is clear that customers from far and wide are enamoured with this unique venue’s offerings.

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Tina and Colin’s Journey In 2018, Tina and Colin embarked on a journey to breathe new life into this historic wine bar. Their passion for sourcing local produce and using local suppliers all while creating a unique space for the community led them to take over the establishment. Both Tina and Colin own Berrison a management company, this enabled them to use their skills to successfully manage a new business with new staff.

Together, they brought fresh energy and ideas to the place while preserving its timeless charm.

Café Bar recently renovated and named ‘Next Door @ 19 Doubling The Wine Bar’s capacity, the cosy cafe, offers a welcoming space and provides a perfect backdrop for light lunches with an array of artisan sandwiches, soups or the ‘hot bake of the day’. Whilst catching up with friends, or simply sipping a cup of coffee while reading a book.

Visitors can savour freshly brewed coffee, indulge in homemade cakes and tray bakes. The Cafe Bar also offers a variety of sharing platters, using locally sourced produce, including a cured meat or deluxe cheese sharing platter - perfect accompanied with a crisp glass of wine! And let’s not forget our wonderful afternoon teas.

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The Wine Bar As the sun sets, 19 The Wine Bar transforms from a cosy cafe into a relaxing haven where customers can enjoy a range of fine wines, craft beers, cocktails and much more. With an eclectic modern bar on the lower floor, fitted with bespoke iron work and traditional oak beams, The Wine Bar has mastered the perfect combination of maintaining a traditional, cosy ambience with a modern twist. On the upper floor, customers can enjoy their favourite tipple in ‘the comfy area’, Fitted with comfy chairs and plenty of sheepskin rugs it provides the perfect intimate space to unwind and revel in fine food, drink and company.

‘Next Door @ 19’ is now available as a venue for clubs and events.

A Mediterranean Oasis One of the unique aspects of 19 The Wine Bar, is its sun filled rooftop terrace. This enclosed sun terrace offers a secluded oasis that provides a tranquil escape from the bustle of the town, where customers can enjoy their food and drink in the open air without compromising on comfort. A sun soaked haven full of luscious trees, palms and foliage along with outdoor heaters and shimmering lights, customers can enjoy this hidden gem no matter the season or time of day. The roof terrace often hosts pop up kitchens and accommodates live musicians, adding to its Mediterranean feel, particularly on balmy evenings.

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“One of the key pillars of Tina and Colin’s philosophy is their commitment to supporting local producers and suppliers”.

Tipples One of the highlights of 19 The Wine Bar is its extensive and carefully curated wine selection.

Tina and Colin are passionate about supplying an extensive range of wine, and it reflects in the diversity of their offerings. From rich reds such as El Picador Merlot and crisp whites including Kuki Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc along with sparkling wines to rare vintages, there’s a wine for every palate. The couple’s dedication to quality and their continuous exploration of new wine regions ensure that guests are treated to a delightful journey through the world of wine.

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For those seeking alternatives to wine, 19 The Wine Bar doesn’t disappoint. Craft beer enthusiasts will find a selection of locally brewed and international craft beers that are rotated on a regular basis. With the likes of Hawkeswater Blonde and Stringers No.2 Stout on offer, beer fiends are sure to find something to suit their taste. Additionally, the bar offers a range of expertly crafted cocktails, mixed with precision and creativity, adding a touch of sophistication to the evening as well as over 20 unique premium gins such as The Lakes grapefruit gin. For those that can’t quite decide on one gin, The Wine Bar’s unique Gin Trays allow customers to get a taste of a range of gins and high quality tonics and botanicals. For customers who are seeking a drink with a little more depth, the Wine Bar also prides itself on a wide selection of premium malt whiskey’s including locally produced Lakes Special Reserve.

Events and Entertainment Beyond its day-to-day offerings, 19 The Wine Bar has expanded its horizons. The adjacent space, recently renovated and named ‘Next Door @ 19’ is now available as a venue for clubs and events.

Doubling The Wine Bar’s capacity, this exclusive new venue will be fit with a fireplace, snug as well as a conference room. This versatile space can cater to a variety of occasions, from being rented out for private parties to live music nights and business events. Tina and Colin are excited to introduce this brand new space, which will further solidify 19 The Wine Bar’s role as a hub of Kendal’s social scene. The Wine Bar is looking to host a variety of events including wine club events, where wine enthusiasts can gather in a space with like minded people and ignite their passion for all things wine.

Shop Local One of the key pillars of Tina and Colin’s philosophy is their commitment to supporting local producers and suppliers. Kendal and the surrounding Lake District region are known for

their bountiful agricultural offerings, and the couple takes full advantage of this by sourcing as many ingredients as possible locally. This not only ensures the freshest and highest quality products but also contributes to the sustainability of the community. From Wolftown Gin to locally sourced sourdough and cheeses, every aspect of 19 The Wine Bar has been carefully thought out to provide the best possible produce all whilst supporting the local community.

Plan your visit Tina and Colin’s journey with 19 The Wine Bar is a heartwarming tale of preserving history while infusing new life and energy into a cherished Kendal institution. Their dedication to offering an exceptional culinary experience, commitment to local sourcing, and ability to transform a historic building into a vibrant gathering place have made 19 The Wine Bar a beloved destination in Kendal.

To book your visit please call 01539 733803 or visit www.19thewinebar.co.uk

19 The Wine Bar, 19 Lowther Street, Kendal Cumbria, LA9 4DH www.lancmag.com

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Blackpool’s

Christmas By The Sea is back for 2023 – bigger and better than ever!

Blackpool’s spectacular Christmas village is returning this winter – and it promises to be a cracker!

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isitBlackpool has confirmed that the hugely-popular outdoor village will open on Friday 17 November with an exciting range of new festive family attractions - plus extended opening hours for the free skating rink which will open every day until January 1 (barring Christmas Day).

Last year, Christmas By The Sea, which is staged on the headland opposite The Blackpool Tower, delivered the highest visitor numbers ever recorded on the seafront during the winter months.

In addition to the free-to-use skating rink, this year’s village will include

festive light installations and projection shows, themed log cabins with food, drink and gifts, artificial snowfalls, Christmas trees and festive tram rides.

It will also see a variety of themed children’s attractions, the return of the Star Flyer which, at 196ft tall, is one of Europe’s tallest swing rides, and exciting new thrill rides including a 100ft-long snow slide.

Christmas By The Sea will be complimented by a full Illuminations display along the seafront after VisitBlackpool announced earlier this year that the Illuminations would once again be extended by two months to run from September 1 through to January 1.

The staging of the village is in association with the Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID), Blackpool Pleasure Beach and Triangle Attractions.

Cllr Lynn Williams, Leader of Blackpool Council, added: “Christmas

By The Sea has established itself as one of the most popular events in our calendar, attracting visitors from far and wide who come to enjoy a unique Christmas experience.

“Many of the attractions including the rink, projection shows, snowfalls and light installations will again be free to access, giving families the opportunity to enjoy a magical and memorable Christmas.

“This year, we will be extending the opening hours for the rink giving even more residents and visitors a chance to skate in what is a wonderful seafront setting.”

For full details, including opening times of the rink and other attractions go to: visitblackpool.com/christmas

Don’t forget, there is still plenty more free entertainment to look forward to in Blackpool over the coming weeks and months: Blackpool Illuminations are running nightly from September 1, 2023 to January 1, 2024 This year’s display includes three new installations, one by internationallyrenowned artist Dr Chila Kumari Singh Burman, MBE, another by Canadianborn Bruce Alfred, who specialises in Native American art, and a new version of Spitfire Island which has been reimagined by Laurence LlewelynBowen. All have been built by the Illuminations’ in-house team based at the Lightworks manufacturing facility in Blackpool with the support of the Government’s Towns Fund.

World Fireworks Championship Blackpool

Lightpool Festival

Watch the Blackpool night skies light up with brilliant firework displays synced to music as teams from across the world battle it out. India set the bar with a magnificent display on Saturday 16 September. Week Two on Saturday 30 September, saw the Swiss pyrotechnics company, SUGYP, take centre-stage. The third and final performance, by Italian fireworks company Pirotecnica Soldi, took place on the evening of Friday 20 October, to coincide with the launch of this year’s annual Lightpool Festival in Blackpool.

The award-winning Lightpool Festival returns for October half-term with an amazing free-to-see programme of light installations, 3D projection shows, art trails, and stunning live performances from October 20-28.

It includes world premieres and installations never before seen in the UK, including artworks from Australia, France, the Netherlands and Spain.

The festival is delivered in collaboration with various sponsors and partners including Arts Council England.

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Tackling Homelessness Amongst Young People

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t started with one 2 bedroomed house which was shared by two young women, the first ever residents, and supported by a part time worker who worked to ensure they were living independently, preparing them for moving on into their own place. The name changed to Backup in 2018 and now has 112 units of self contained accommodation and the level and type of support that goes with that has increased massively.

Maura Jackson, CEO since 2012, says that this is no ordinary housing service. The accommodation is of good standard, all owned by housing associations but managed

by Backup. It contains white goods, furniture, furnishings, along with being decorated and cleaned to create a home, not a hostel. Every resident is offered a new bed and 2 sets of bedding which they can take with them when they move on. Why 2 sets? We need young people to get in the habit of changing and washing bedding as soon as they move in. One set is brand new, one is donated.

Above: Maura Jackson, CEO

Backup North West is a charity based in Bolton tackling homelessness amongst young people aged 16-25 years.

Established 30 years ago, as Bolton Young Persons Housing Scheme, the charity was formed to address rising concerns that young people were experiencing disproportionate levels of homelessness.

I am homeless because of a family fall out; homophobic; I left because I was so uncomfortable, my family still don’t know about my sexuality. 21yo.

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“No young person will remember the type of curtains or wallpaper we provided but they will remember forever how they were treated and made to feel.” said Maura Jackson. “This is why we provide extras and fundraise to do so; chef whites for catering college, a trowel for an apprentice plasterer, acrylic nails for the prom night, flowers for a still born baby’s funeral.

We have a fund – young people can access internally, once a year for up to £80 for something that is connected to improving their wellbeing.

The results are always priceless.”

Every young person is given a tailored support package; we assess the needs and current circumstances and we move from there. All of the services are different; ranging from very intensive round the clock support and security through to medium through to lower semi independent living. Collectively 6 projects accommodate 112 young people at any one time. Young people can move through the services as their needs decrease. The final stage being a managed flat in the community which we support through a visiting support ‘Outreach Service’, they experience almost complete independence but have a backup. Pardon the pun.

The support workers are employed for their life experiences as much as their qualifications, they range from social workers to former teachers, health care, criminal justice and social care colleagues but also include people who have retrained – an ex gardener, chef, plumber, website designer, insurance broker, banker and painter & decorator. What they have in common is a willingness to make a life changing difference for young www.lancmag.com

people and they share the company values; Commitment, Honesty, Empathy, Empowerment, Resilience, Respect and Support.

Backup now employs 67 staff, support workers, managers, business staff and a small fundraising team with a common goal of tackling homelessness but for those young people who do experience it and whilst they experience it, giving them a great quality service and safe option. They are an Investors in People GOLD employer and have been for 7 years, successfully completing assessments every 3 years. They employ 6 ex residents, 2 as service managers.

I am homeless because I have never had a stable home, always lived at different houses, my Mum abused drugs and alcohol and kicked me out. 16yo.

The ultimate aim is to ensure the young people move on in to their own safe and secure accommodation.

250 young people move on every year, we have a 91% success rate. The young people are amazing, so diverse and resilient. In our 30 years of operation we have seen young folk go on to be prison officers, bankers, charity founder, artists, managers, solicitors, teachers, support workers, business owners, local government staff, civil servants and a BAFTA winning comedienne and writer.

There are also parents, carers and community activists.

We have a few ex residents who became lifelong users of services, didn’t succeed in their efforts to stop offending, drinking or using drugs, became trapped in sex work, couldn’t leave the abusive relationships they formed and occasionally we see a familiar face in Bolton Most Wanted page in the local paper. This isn’t Disney, but when it works, it’s magical.

The charity sector is under pressure to deliver fantastic outcomes with little or no resources. So Backup are using creative approaches to secure and diversify income.

These include The Van, a social enterprise designed to generate profits for the not for profit. It is a mobile coffee and cake service trading with Rijo42 drinks and bespoke homemade cakes. It can be used at community events, corporate/private functions or trade anywhere where our license permits. We use volunteers to staff it alongside paid workers and many of these are residents.

Win-win opportunity for us to train and develop young people with skills for future employment whilst trading.

Our paid apprentice on The Van is also an ex resident.

Backup also has established an online shop to purchase branded items but in amongst the hoodies and caps you will see for sale calendars and Indian Spices.

A bit random...

Cooking with Maura is a program of tutorials to cook authentic Indian dishes with the Backup CEO and Head Chef at Spice Valley (Horwich) restaurant. 12 different dishes have been selected, cooked, reconstructed, written up, reconstructed and filmed so it can be shared with the public. The owners of the restaurant have provided their experience, knowledge and the spices for each dish, packaged with the recipe and method and are for sale.

Every time you purchase one Spice Valley spice pack and make your meal for 2, you are paying for 2 meals for a homeless young person at Backup.

The Chances team within Backup offer specialist support to hundreds of young people. There are 2 employment support workers, 2 mental health practitioners, a care leaver worker and a sexual exploitation worker. Between the 6 of them they offer additional support to young people who have extra support needs and are at risk of losing a placement with Backup – we do not want to see young people experiencing repeat homelessness; once is too much.

If it wasn’t for Backup I would be dead. www.lancmag.com

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The charity calendar 2022 is also for sale and is a musical theme, a series of photos including young residents (The Beatles) the CEO (Boy George) and the Mayor of Bolton (ABBA) staff and other supporters of Backup. When you check out the website you will also be able to see the upcoming fundraising events including:• Ladies Festive Lunch Friday 19th November 2021

We can’t save everyone but most endings are positive ones. Backup prides itself on being much more than housing, addressing housing and homelessness is the first step in a long and complex journey of unpicking 16 + years of emotional damage and trauma.

“Without the accommodation you can’t succeed but providing it is only the tip of the iceberg”. Maura.

• Charity Gala Ball (Peaky Blinders theme) 16th March 2022

Stan lived in the Backup scheme for over a year.

Initially referred because of a conflict with his Mums partner, he was homeless and we moved him in to the Lucas Project. He needed emotional support and help with diagnosed mental issues from the start.

His support focussed on mental and physical health, supporting healthy relationships, college and managing his tenancy. Like many young people, he had experienced trauma and was struggling to manage, he wasn’t using prescription medication safely and was regularly self harming.

He was funny, a keen skateboarder, loved music and his Mum. She died of breast cancer August 2019 and he was bereft. Just managing to survive his grief, lockdown arrived and he told support staff he felt trapped. Despite securing a place at University for September Stan took his own life June 2020 aged 19. To say Backup colleagues were upset is an understatement, they worked so hard to save him and in the end the choice was his. Colleagues here had seen him between 1 and 5 times a day for a year so had developed great rapport. Backup mental health workers and support workers spent hours with him, 7 hours, the day he made the attempt to end his life accessing emergency NHS interventions, offering talking therapies, just being there.

This wasn’t Stan’s first attempt but was to be his last.

He died 4 days later in hospital.

Jon, one of the mental health workers made a bench for the Lucas garden in memory of Stan, out of skateboards for Lucas residents.

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100% of young people in Backup have not come here by choice. But over 75% wouldn’t leave if it was their choice.

Advice, advocacy, support, encouragement, guidance all contribute to preparing an individual for independence. A young individual who is expected as a teenager to take responsibility for a tenancy, bills, cooking, cleaning and laundry because they have been unfortunate enough to find themselves homeless.

For some it’s the first time they’ve had responsibility but also the first time they have been treated with respect, eaten (regular) meals at a dining table, not been exploited, felt safe. They are all traumatised, either by something that’s led to them becoming homeless or as a result of experiencing homelessness.

Either way the damage is lasting.

It’s not all doom and gloom...

The fundraising pays for many extras that Backup try and deliver as standard. Optional days out, kayaking, wall climbing, cycling, cinema, art or animal therapy, theatre are delivered regularly. Free TV licenses and wifi are also subsidised.

Help us by:• Following us on social media • Supporting our events • Buy our merchandise • Donate • Book The Van • Be a Guardian (financial patron £500 a year)

Backup are a multiple award winning service with a multiple award winning CEO. We work with 400 young people a year.

Here is our “why... www.lancmag.com

Elise whilst living at the Lucas Project overcame many hurdles after the devastating loss of both her parents who died within 18 months of each other.

Despite suffering from anxiety, depression and social anxiety, Elise proved herself to be very capable in all areas of managing her tenancy but still had confidence issues in regards to moving to a property without support. Elise spoke at the AGM 2018 sharing her story with stakeholders, it was heart breaking.

Elise moved into Supported Tenancies after Lucas in order to gradually transition to her own property. Elise was also accessing Backup mental health services and wanted to continue with this as she was finding it very beneficial. Elise was placed into one of our flats nearer to her family and support network at the end of September 2019.

Elise said: “In the last eight months I’ve lost all my weight (10 stones), got myself a boyfriend, grown in confidence, become more independent, faced a lot of fears and achieved so many goals I have always wanted to do”.

Elise said her anxiety has improved and that previously if she went out she always felt so uncomfortable and like everyone was watching her and judging, she said it feels now like a total mind set change.

“Backup believed in me and now I do too.”

Elise had been waiting for an operation for a gastric bypass for months and soon after moving in had it done. Elise also began to do things out of her comfort zone. It began with simple things that most of us take for granted e.g. catching public transport for a shopping trip to Bury with a friend, resulting in Elise going sightseeing with friends to London for a few days.

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Backup’s Maura Jackson Bares All to Chat Body Confidence And Menopause

Last week, a highly respected CEO and leader of a Bolton based homeless charity swapped her behind the scenes support for helping vulnerable young people get off the streets, to instead get in front of the camera, showing her own personal vulnerability, as she stepped well out of her comfort zone to chat body confidence and specifically Menopause, on Channel 4’s Naked Education.

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aura Jackson, 52, from Bolton, has built a career helping others, using her straight talking approach, combined with her heartfelt empathy for others and her savvy business brain, building BACKUP North West charity (www. backup-charity.org.uk) to quadruple in size over the last 10 years, winning awards such as The Institute of Directors (IOD) Director of the Year Awards and Bolton Woman of the Year along the way. Usually the one empowering others last week saw her take a leap of faith of her own as she braved it on national TV in her underwear discussing her 20 stone, size 24 body, her sex life and menopause.

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Bringing her much loved cheeky sense of humour to the situation the stand up comic in her helped to put the other 2 ladies also involved at ease, as they laughed sharing stories and trials and tribulations, rather than taking themselves too seriously but the message behind it was one with gravitas.

The show is all about promoting body positivity and trying to normalise differences, removing, and reducing the judgemental and damaging stereotyping - a key element of the show is the ‘education of young people’ as teen students join each episode to explore different topics.

Maura has been a supporter of the www.lancmag.com

whole series which covered body dysmorphia, transgender, body hair, ageing and cosmetic surgery, bringing these subjects to the forefront with young people because having seen the mental anguish young people suffer due to trying to do everything to fit in, she wants to show them it’s ok to stand out.

She said:”You won’t believe the amount of young people who choose to prioritise their appearance over their wellbeing, finding the money for cosmetic treatments but not to pay their rent, and the huge mental turmoil they put themselves through if they feel they are ‘too different’ - this is a result of society hammering home www.lancmag.com

to them that they must look a certain way to be accepted and it’s a huge problem. I wanted to be a part of this programme that is showing people that we all look different, and that’s the way it should be - the key is being comfortable in your own skin”.

“Young people in our accommodation and support services are prioritising image over food.They are so pressured by peers and media to look a certain way that isn’t always natural, healthy or affordable. This isn’t exclusive to young people in crisis it’s a national epidemic. Feeling good about yourself shouldn’t be based on looks, weight or shape. It should be about health, wellbeing

and purpose.”

“One thing I have already got out of it is having watched all the episodes, is being able to talk to my 12 year old granddaughter, who believes she’s fat, about being proud of our bodies, and self love - these conversations have been much more real and I’ve approached the subject of body image in a new way I’d not been able to do before, so this has made an immediate impact close to home”.

Maura, whose subject area on the show was menopause, also wanted to take part to share her experiences, so she could play her part in showing

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those in midlife that there’s ways to take this challenging part of life in your stride too.

Opening up about her hair loss, and how she felt her midlife body was ‘letting her down’ she spoke about wanting to open up the conversation about what happens to women’s bodies in menopause, “otherwise you just feel so isolated”. She shares how she didn’t know what was going on with her body as she didn’t suffer the usual symptoms but instead experienced itchy calves, restless legs, migraines and female hormonal hair loss syndrome, alongside mood swings and an increased sex drive.

Entertaining her fellow Naked Education guests she said :”I have to pay the grand children to scratch me with a debit card to relieve the itching - ooo it’s lovely” before she went on to say “I think my husband could have done with a warning” because one minute she wanted him

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in bed, the next she wanted to kill him because he was breathing too loudly.

Whilst she was using her wit and humour to address difficult conversations, to help her feel comfortable sharing her experiences, and taking her clothes off to reveal her plus size body to the nation, Maura did share her frustrations that women who are experience menopause symptoms are not taken seriously -and she finds it frustrating how much they are judged rather than helped.

“Going through the menopause does not affect a woman’s core capabilities - they need to be supported”.

She also wanted to tackle judgement of plus size women as part of the conversation, and whilst her weight is not related to menopause she seized the moment to be a champion for others, baring all with confidence.

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She added:“The TV team have offered emotional and psychological support before during and after filming. The very fact that they put this in place for us all and had to consider negative reactions from trolls/public/ social media and the impact that may have on our wellbeing speaks volumes and that’s precisely why the programme is ground-breaking.”

“I know losing weight would be healthier for me, but this is who I am, and I do not deserve to be judged by that. So, I was hoping it would enable other women to think the same and tackle stereotypes about ‘fat’ people.

My body shape and size shouldn’t hold me back and it doesnt’- I’ve achieved so much already in my life”.

She said to the other 2 ladies she was in the discussion with - “People need to look past the symptoms and look at what we’re doing with our lives - because we’re all doing things

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that are amazing - and it’s got nothing to do with how fat we are, or whether we’re too hot!”.

“Who has energy to waste on whether they are too fat, too thin, have scars, baldness or anything that makes them look or feel different? Life is for living. Every body has beauty and potential for greatness. It’s what we do and say that counts not what we look like.”

Maura, who is also an inspirational public speaker and event host, under the name of ‘The Feather Fixer’ (https:// thefeatherfixer.co.uk/ ) recently took to the stage in front of 250 people at Old Trafford to encourage others to celebrate themselves and their strengths. At BACKUP North West she provides multiple services across Bolton to young people aged 16-25 years who are homeless, or at risk of homelessness and last year gained the support of former lead singer of M People, Heather Small, and comedian Miranda Hart who helped celebrate the charity’s 30th Anniversary.

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Maura has also recently started setting up her own comedy nights ‘More O ’Me’, as her own creative release to her busy life, and to raise more funds for BACKUP North West.

Every one has sold out, with the next one in July having sold 100 tickets, with a waiting list of 45 people..

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Moulettes (Acoustic) will be appearing at More Music on Saturday 11 November with support from Laura J Martin. Tickets are £5 - £10 available from moremusic.org.uk A torrent of creativity” - Clash Magazine “Avant Folk, Cinematic arrangements and big riffs” - Vents Magazine “Unique. Delicious music” **** MOJO “A cross between Pentangle, Kate Bush & early Pink Floyd”- Reuters

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Following a summer season of Acoustic and Electric shows Moulettes are delighted to announce a Canadian & UK Acoustic Tour in continued celebration of their gigantic & groundbreaking fifth album project, Xenolalia.

Stretching the boundaries of expectation as they move between Cellos, classical & steel string Guitars, Viola, Piano, Violin, Harp, Percussion & harmony vocals, be prepared to question all you think you know about the traditional chamber ensemble! This is eclectic music for Indie, Experimental, Folk and Classical lovers alike; a delicious interplay of dramatic orchestration, big riffs, string baths & kaleidoscopic lushness.

Through this daring ensemble, Moulettes explore the resonant beauty of these acoustic instruments with ambition, ingenuity and poise. Choosing to play inthe-round wherever possible, the crowd encircle the band, close enough to become part of the sixth-sense synergy that makes ensemble playing so magical to witness.

The musical tension between the Acoustic & Electric outfits has informed everything that the Moulettes have done up till now, but Xenolalia sees this ongoing duel in their mission explode into 3 more ensembles.

Xenolalia is 55 pieces of music; 11 songs told 5 ways by 5 ensembles: Acoustic, Electric, A Cappella, Horns & Electronica. It will culminate in a double vinyl release of both Electric and Acoustic ensembles facing off; whilst supported by Horns, Acapella and Electronica versions in an epic collection of bonus digital material.

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Denise Mullen Denise Mullen is a journalist, writer and entrepreneur

Surprises that deliver: Those are the ones I am absolutely am in favour of

Above: Before

T

he Boy and I have a holiday let property in Sedbergh. It’s small and very old. A little barn that’s seen a series of uses and is now converted into holiday accommodation.

Now Johnny loves anything with a bit of history to it. I think that’s why we seem to collect scrap which gets thoroughly cleaned, sorted and then goes into the ‘come handy pile’.

I pointed out to him, just yesterday, that scrap, with the ‘s’ removed, is a more accurate description for much of the ephemera we’ve acquired.

Fondly (not) I remember the day, defined by how excited he was, when we went to buy, what I was told was an ‘excellent’ generator. This was a vintage Italian-made Ruggerini generator.

Apparently very good quality, and, if it had some compression (??) we were definitely buying it.

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Now Johnny loves anything with a bit of history to it. I think that’s why we seem to collect scrap which gets thoroughly cleaned, sorted and then goes into the ‘come handy pile’.

up. ‘Perfect!’ he exclaimed. Then tried it – much fiddling in some undergrowth – then pulling something from the middle of the bushy foliage and announced it had compression. It was duly loaded into the back of the ancient Land Rover, using a winch, and off we trundled.

For some reason, I couldn’t stop saying ‘How Much??’ So much so, I was reminded of him, when we were planning our wedding (he still doesn’t know how much it cost). He was also, I recall, horrified that he didn’t know half the people on the guest list, so why didn’t we just get rid of them.

I mentioned that I didn’t know the other half …. and that’s how weddings work.

The rust bucket cost £350. And that was way more than ten years ago. The tree came with it.

I digress. So ‘Senor Ruggerini,’ as he is now known, has resided at our home for many years.

Johnny added some sort of chimney thing and a little pointy hat for it, a bit like the Tin Man in Wizard of Oz. www.lancmag.com

However this piece of (s)crap has, in combination with his trusty forge and anvil (also from the stone age) rebuilt our house. From forging door handles to building a steel-framed barn.

And, for the ‘new’ old barn for holidaymakers, it has been craftily deployed to revamp some ancient estate fencing gates. Now, are you ready for the ‘come handy pile’ treasure? Here we go.

The new gate latch and hinges are made from old mower blades. Some rebar (high tensile steel reinforcing bars for concrete) is now fashioned into a pin for the latch closer counterweight thing.

See, he can’t just put on a latch. He cut up a steel girder, salvaged from behind an outbuilding, to make the gate posts, forging huge cabin hooks to tie the pair of gates back when necessary.

Come handy pile central

Getting a handle on it

In a few minutes downtime, he also made a beautiful handle for a side door at home – because he’d got all the gear out (and on) In a few minutes downtime, he also made a beautiful handle for a side door at home – because he’d got all the gear out (and on).

He’s complaining his welding is ‘still a bit rough’ but he’s grinning from ear to ear and covered in grease.

He’s wearing a bright yellow welding helmet that makes him look like one of the Transformers (‘Bumble’ to be precise) of movie fame, some sort of ill-advised trousers with about 500 pockets and a farrier’s leather apron which adds a vaguely uncomfortable Village People twist.

After

Next week he’s off to hang the gates and put up the estate fencing – oddly the latter was bought from an actual fencing establishment – I’m shocked. Meanwhile here we prepare for the arrival of a friend’s four pet sheep to crack on with some mowing duties. Whatever the fencing, sheep exist purely to escape and place themselves in mortal danger, in inaccessible places and at inconvenient times. At least that’s our experience, and those of a sheep farmer friend. I have this strange feeling that we’re developing into an Aardman animation – thanks to Johnny’s attempts at welding in The Wrong Trousers and now Shaun The Sheep’s Farmageddon II.

What’s on my plate The last of the home grown produce, from root veg to runner beans went into a hearty home-made veggie soup redolent with fresh herbs – from sage and parsley to thyme and a little rosemary. www.lancmag.com

What’s in my glass

I’d never encountered a white Malbec before (sheltered life!) I adore Argentinian red Malbec and I love white wine, so we had to try Trivento, Argentinan white Malbec Reserve 2022. Fresh and fruity, crisp with a ‘berry nose’. Unusual – but a total triumph.

Price varies according to where you shop from around £6.50 through to £8.50. Well worth a try.

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The life of Di

A monthly column by Di Wade, the author of ‘A Year In Verse’

World-class worrier worryingly unfamiliar screens, – or about the piece of cheese I dropped three days ago, (and never found, so god knows how pungent it must now be). Multi-sensory impairment definitely doesn’t help any. I got myself in a right tizz the other day on account of finding I’d left the fridge door open – and possibly for some time. Couldn’t help thinking that had I been able to see better, I’d likely have spotted my gaffe sooner, and thus been able to rectify it likewise. However, this was neither here nor there, and all that actually mattered was that I’d potentially killed a fridge freezer I’d only had a couple of months – and this after its predecessor had packed up at the worst possible time, and my sister had ultimately ridden to the rescue by ordering me another online. I was beating myself up for the rest of the day – except at three in the morning, when I was to be found charging downstairs to make sure I’d definitely shut the fridge door properly last time.

One way or another, there’s a lot of preoccupation to be had in the things I either might or definitely HAVE mistaken, misheard, mislaid, or just missed - and when I’m not worrying about them, I’m worrying about what I’ll be sent to worry about next, which is bound to be dire.

If it’s not been scientifically proven, it surely could be: Worry’s as much use as a chocolate teapot containing a tarantula: When it’s not making one’s guts churn, one’s insides a mass of knots, one’s nights a misery of sleepless unrest, and one’s days a torment of tiredness, it’s giving one a blood pressure so one’s doctor’s having whole kitten litters – and oneself has something ELSE to worry about. And what does it achieve? Less than Les Dennis’s efforts on Strictly: It ultimately solves nowt, has in fact no effect whatever on anything one might be worried about, and is arguably a gross indulgence for one lowly life in a universe beyond measuring. Then who’s to say one won’t get hit by a bus tomorrow?

Unfortunately, it seems knowing all this doesn’t in any way stop me being a world-class worrier. True, the past couple of years HAVE been a piece of work in this regard, unprecedented work strife giving way to hellish family crises.

However, it’d be a misrepresentation to maintain I was usually as cool as a cucumber, and worried about nowt. When I’m not worrying about my struggles to get my hearing-aids in, (which are surely going to break them soon), I’m worrying as to what I can have pressed on my phone to have it taking me to

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So thank god for sport, books, seasons, and local recommendations. These can’t do everything of course – work miracles, right wrongs, cure all ills, that kind of helpful thing. However, there are definitely worse distractions - and if I’ve got so I could worry for Britain, I’ve also got profoundly grateful for anything which isn’t a worry, whether it’s a stonking European Ryder Cup performance, a gripping Spider Shepherd novel, a stroll along the prom complete with model yachts, or a hike in the opposite direction incorporating a spell on North Pier gazing out at the foaming waves, and tower. I’ve made particularly good use of local attractions recently, visiting Barton Grange, Burnside, and the Sea Life Centre during a couple of weeks’ leave. We followed Barton Grange with a lovely lunch at Thornton Lodge, and a peaceful walk by the river there, (so a grand day out to rival any of Susan Calman’s), Burnside represented a veritable Aladdin’s cave of stuff I could have bought in a heartbeat - and the Sea Life Centre was fascinating: Who knew that octopuses had three hearts, and blue blood, starfish hadn’t bones, blood, or brains, and that all clownfish started out male? I’d never been before, and was instantly enthralled. Then there’s the impact of the seasons, which presently means carpeting conkers, cushioning leaves, and the hearteningly warm glow of autumn fauna and flora – or soft lamps as one hunkers down with the rugby world cup, the gymnastics, the cricket, Strictly - or a good book.

Bliss – and certainly beats worrying like it’s going out of fashion.

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Brothers’ dreams prove a recipe for success in East Lancashire B

rothers Dean and Ted Cockett are self-confessed foodies, especially when it comes to quality meat cuts and mouth-watering savoury pies.

It was this shared passion which led them to buy a historic Burnley butchers/bakery business in 2022, then Colne-based businesses Pasture Farm Foods and Whitesides Bakery this year.

Now, their focus is on growing the brands within the Lancashire area, as well as expanding their reach across the UK through the online retail outlet www.justmeats.co.uk And just in time for the festive season!

Dean said: “It’s been quite a whirlwind 18 months, but as two local Lancashire lads, we’re incredibly proud to now own three of the finest brands in the area.

“Buying a Haffners’ pie before going on the Turf had been a pre-match tradition of mine stretching back years, and to be given the chance to take ownership of such a Burnley institution was a huge honour.

“Similarly, Whitesides took me back to my high school days in Colne. I love that ‘Whitey’s Whopper’ and ‘Torpedo & Gravy in a tray’ are still available, as these are what I used to buy religiously when I was a teenager.”

Ted is managing director of the three businesses and is not afraid to roll up his sleeves and get stuck in.

He said: “My background is insurance, so I knew I had a lot to learn about meat and pies! When the purchase of Haffners was going through, I worked in every department, starting with mixing the fillings in our Marlborough Street bakery.

“Immersing myself in this way enables me to get to know all the teams, find out where the pressure points are in each business and work out potential areas for growth.

“We have some exciting plans afoot for the new year, but right now, it’s heads down focussing on Christmas!

“We want to deliver the best possible service and products to our retail and wholesale customers alike.

“Let’s make this Christmas one to remember!”

MAKING CHRISTMAS 2023 ONE TO REMEMBER

www.justmeats.co.uk

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JUSTand pies MEATS www.lancmag.com

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Operations Director Neil Wood with owner brothers Dean and Ted Cockett

Taking over a Burnley institution If you’re from Burnley, you must have had an iconic Haffners’ pie – it’s a rite of passage.

The family bakery, which extends back four generations, has been trading in the town since 1889 and the smell of freshly baked pies entices a wealth of customers into the Marlborough Street bakery from Monday to Saturday.

Haffners’ historic Keirby Walk butcher’s shop has been operating in Burnley since 1970 and manager Neil Sledding has been at the helm for 37 years.

Brothers, Dean and Ted Cockett took over the business from John Haffner, great grandson of the original founder, last year.

Ted said: “It was hugely important to us that we retain the same quality, local produce and friendly, personal service which Haffners’ customers have come to expect.

Master butcher Neil Sledding AKA The Captain

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“We also vowed to retain the original Haffners’ recipes which have made the brand a household name and recently dusted off the old family recipe book.

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“In it, we found Haffners’ original sausage ingredients and have now reintroduced this traditional recipe under the 1889 brand.”

While remaining fully committed to the service of its established local audiences, Dean and Ted are also keen to introduce their meat and pies to a wider audience.

Dean said: “The recent purchase of Pasture Farm Foods has afforded us an established online retail platform through which to sell our Haffners’ products – www.justmeats.co.uk - within Lancashire and beyond.

“We will operate our own local delivery service for postcodes within the Burnley and Pendle areas and use a national courier for deliveries around the rest of the UK. We’re already sending packages as far as London and Surrey and we now have the capability to grow these long distance relationships.

“So, everyone can make theirs a Haffners’ Christmas this year!”

Scan the QR code to order online.

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Bringing Burnley and Pendle together Pasture Farm Foods fits Dean and Ted Cockett’s growth profile perfectly.

The Colne business, established in 2002, offered them well established retail and wholesale audiences, as well as online retail outlets and a local delivery service.

Ted said: “We are asked every single day if we do pie deliveries, both locally and nationally, but until now we haven’t had the capacity at our Haffners’ bakery and we didn’t have an online ordering function, nor the logistical capability to make deliveries consistently.

“All of these challenges have been dealt with through the acquisition of Pasture Farm Foods.”

The Pasture Farm Foods traditional butcher’s shop, in Whitewalls Close, near to Asda in Colne, has recently been rebranded as Haffners, but the staff and service remain the same.

Wholesale customers are still being looked after under the Pasture Farm Foods brand.

At the time of the Pasture Farm Foods purchase, Neil Wood joined the business as Operations Director, bringing with him a wealth of experience and industry knowledge.

It is his role to ensure the smooth integration of the Haffners, Pasture Farm Foods and Whitesides businesses and lead the growth of retail and wholesale sales.

Whitesides, a family business which has been a Colne staple for over 55 years, will continue to operate under the family name, from its Keighley Road home.

Ted said: “There are no immediate plans to bring Whitesides under the Haffners’ name, but the good news is, Whitesides’ customers will now be introduced to some of our Haffners’ products, and yes, that does mean our award-winning pies!”

Whitesides is the third acquisition that Dean Cockett has been involved in and he is confident that it won’t be the last.

He said: “Should further opportunities present themselves with the right synergies in the right locations, we would certainly be interested in taking a look, with a view to adding them into our group.”

Dean Cockett with Burnley Football Club investors, JJ and Kealia Watt tasting a Haffners’ meat and potato pie in the Turf’s Fan Zone.

Haffners’ Pork Pie and Meat & Onion Pie

MAKING CHRISTMAS 2023 ONE TO REMEMBER

www.justmeats.co.uk

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Haffners’ Meat & Potato Pie

JUSTand pies MEATS

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WHAT’S ON

FRANKENSTEIN WED 24 - SAT 27 NOVEMBER

imitating the dog and Leeds Playhouse’s multimedia exploration of Mary Shelley’s classic novel is a psychological thriller which dares to ask the question what is it to be human?

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GREAT THEATRE

GREAT CINEMA

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SUPPORTING COMMUNITY

WHAT’S ON

PEAK STUFF 22 FEBRUARY

Peak Stuff presents three fast-paced, funny stories, taking a deep-dive into consumer culture. In an age of thrifting, retail therapy, climate crisis and click and collect – how does 'stuff' define us? And do we know when to stop?

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GREAT THEATRE

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SUPPORTING COMMUNITY

Two cancer doctors swapped medicine for music to take part in charity concert

On Sunday 3rd September, the musical and medical worlds combined for a unique performance of Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No.3 in D minor at Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall.

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Two cancer doctors from The Christie NHS Foundation Trust took part in this charity concert, alongside 100 other doctors from across Europe, as part of The European Doctors Orchestra. It was a spectacular evening, with all proceeds going to The Christie Charity. There was 800+ people in attendance for the performance and over £20K was raised for The Christie Charity.

Originally titled The Joyful Science, the symphony journeys from the dawn of time itself to the pinnacle of human achievement, love, exploring on the way what it is to be human, and the interaction between mankind, science and nature. With a huge orchestra ~ conducted

by Timothy Redmond and featuring St George’s Singers, choristers of Blackburn and Salford Cathedral, and Mezzo soprano Sarah Castle (Royal Opera House, Bayreuth Festival) ~ the audience was treated to a truly emotional experience. www.lancmag.com

Dr. Rohan Shotton, clinical research fellow in medical oncology at The Christie, a specialist cancer trust, has been part of the orchestra for 10 years and is the principal percussionist. He was joined by Dr. Daniel Saunders, consultant clinical oncologist and associate medical director, who plays the oboe.

“I love being part of such a special group,” comments Rohan. “You get to meet some brilliant doctors who are also fantastic musicians. It holds a special place in my heart as it’s also where I met my wife. She is an intensive care doctor at another Trust here in Manchester and we’ve been together for seven years. We’re both looking forward to performing in our home city and raising money for a charity that means so much to us both.”

“This was my first time performing with the orchestra” comments Daniel. “Everyone is very talented, and the standard of performance is incredibly high. The audience was in for a fantastic evening and the money made from the tickets supports cancer patients and their families.”

The orchestra, which was founded in 2004, performs three or four times a year in locations across Europe. Players practice the music independently at home and then have two or three days of rehearsals ahead of the concert.

It is a full symphony orchestra of around 100 players - doctors from many European countries with a wide range of medical specialities, who all love to play music together. Each doctor pays to take part so that the maximum amount of money possible can go to charity.

This is the first time they’ve raised money for The Christie Charity.

Rohan adds, “I first came to The Christie seven years ago and during that time, I’ve really seen the benefit that charity funding brings to patients and their families. I’m currently doing research into lymphoma, a type of cancer that affects the lymph system, and my salary is partfunded by the charity – so not only is the money helping the patients being treated today, but it’s also helping the patients of tomorrow by funding things like clinical trials.”

The event itself included a pre-concert talk, ahead of The European Doctors Orchestra.

The talk, entitled Mahler, Malady and Music: Reflections on the man and meanings of his music, offered a stimulating series of discussions through the lenses of Mahler’s life and the third symphony, led by leading philosophers, clinicians and academics.

Mahler, Malady and Music covered a number of questions: what opportunities arise from the relationship between medicine and music?

Why are so many doctors also extraordinary musicians? And how does this relate to illness, disease and suffering?

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“I love being part of such a special group,” comments Rohan. “ You get to meet some brilliant doctors who are also fantastic musicians”.

About The Christie Charity: The Christie Charity provides enhanced services over and above what the NHS funds.

The Christie Charity fundraises for vital new projects such as a new cancer centre in Macclesfield which opened in 2021 and a new world class transformational research facility which opened in 2023.

Find out more at www.christies.org/the-christiecharity/why-we-need-your-help/what-we-arefundraising-for The Christie Charity is one of the largest NHS charities in the UK. It has over 50,000 supporters who helped raise £13.2m this year. With 82p in every pound raised going directly to the patients, it works hard to make sure the money donated is spent where the hospital needs it most.

Supporters can find out how to donate at www.christies.org/the-christie-charity/donate

About The Christie NHS Foundation Trust: The Christie is a specialist cancer centre in Manchester and has more than 120 years of expertise in cancer care, research and education. It is one of Europe’s leading cancer centres, treating over 60,000 patients a year.

It is the largest provider of radiotherapy in the NHS (including high energy proton beam therapy and MR guided radiotherapy); it is home to the largest chemotherapy unit in the UK; and is a specialist surgical centre concentrating on rare cancers and complex procedures.

The Christie is one of Europe’s largest experimental cancer medicine centres and an international leader in research and development with around 650 clinical studies ongoing at any one time.

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The Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo: a practical and dynamic all-rounder.

The Taycan Sport Turismo sits alongside the Sports Saloon and Cross Turismo.

Combining the versatility of the Taycan Cross Turismo with the on-road dynamics of the Taycan Sports Saloon.

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he Taycan is a purely battery electric Porsche and sparked the revolution in how EV sports cars perform.

There are five derivatives to choose from: Taycan Sport Turismo, Taycan 4S Sport, Taycan GTS Sport Turismo, Taycan Turbo Sport Turismo and Taycan Turbo S Sport Turismo.

The Taycan Sport Turismo adds an athletic and practical all-rounder to the model range. The balance and variety among the range features everything from an incredibly agile rear-wheel drive car to the extremely powerful Turbo S. The Taycan Turbo S Sport Turismo can accelerate from zero to 62 mph in 2.8 seconds and on to a top speed of 162 mph where permitted. The model with the greatest range is the Taycan 4S Sport Turismo, which stretches to 309 miles based on WLTP figures (Combined) with the optional Performance Battery Plus.

The all-wheel drive Sport Turismo models have a particularly efficient drive strategy. Both the Performance Battery and Performance Battery Plus can be charged from five to 80 per cent in 22 minutes and 30 seconds. This also means that only 160

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five minutes’ charging is needed to create a further 62 miles of range.

The Taycan Sport Turismo shares the sporting silhouette, rearward-sloping roof line and functional design of the Taycan Cross Turismo.

In contrast to its sibling model, the Taycan Sport Turismo foregoes any off-road design elements. It is also available with rear-wheel drive.

The headroom in the rear is more than 45 mm greater than that of the Taycan Sports Saloon. An additional 9 mm of height is available above the driver’s seat. The large tailgate also means that the luggage compartment can be accessed with ease.

The opening is much longer, at 801 mm, and much higher, at 543 mm, than in the saloon (434 mm and 330 mm respectively).

In combination with the Sound Package Plus, the luggage compartment can hold up to 446 litres.

With the rear seats folded down (split-folding 60:40), the capacity can even be expanded to 1,212 or 1,171 litres respectively. And that’s before the 84 litres in the front luggage compartment are taken into consideration. www.lancmag.com

The panoramic roof with Variable Light Control has electric glare protection as a special feature.

The large glass surface is divided into nine sections that can be individually controlled. This means that specific sections or the entire roof can be made transparent or opaque. When set to the latter, the interior remains flooded with light.

In addition to these Clear and Matt settings, patrial shading can also be selected. These are predefined patterns with narrow or wide segments.

It even has a dynamic Roller Blind setting, which activates a switching sequence in the individual segments when the Taycan driver slides their finger over an image of the roof in the display.

The Taycan Sport Turismo is also cutting edge in terms of comfort, safety features and infotainment.

With the optional Remote Park Assist, the driver can remotely control entering and leaving a parking space without needing to sit behind the wheel.

Automatic control is possible for parallel and perpendicular parking spaces as well as garages.

The system automatically detects a space and measures it with the aid of ultrasonic sensors and a camera. www.lancmag.com

In addition to Apple Car Play, Android Auto is also integrated into the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system. As well as the iPhone, smartphones using the Google operating system – Android – are also supported.

Moreover, the Voice Pilot voice assistant can understand instructions in normal speech. The navigation system calculates more quickly, primarily uses the online search to find points of interest (POI), and displays its information more clearly. The Charging Planner plans in fastcharging stations and avoids short charging stops.

In addition, charging stations can be filtered by performance class.

For more information, to request a test drive* or to configure a new Taycan, please contact Porsche Centre Preston.

Porsche Centre Preston, Centenary House, Watery Lane, Preston, PR2 1QJ 01772 911 911 • www.porschepreston.co.uk *Test drives subject to applicant status and availability.

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Garden birds are counting on Lancashire Big Garden Birdwatch 2024 Together, let’s make it count

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he world’s largest garden wildlife survey returns, with hundreds of thousands of people watching and counting the UK’s garden birds over the last weekend in January for the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch.

Over half a million people took part in 2023, counting more than 9 million birds.

This year’s event takes place on 26, 27 and 28 January 2024. People across the UK are asked to spend an hour watching and counting the birds in their garden, balcony or local park, then send their results to the RSPB. This year’s event marks 45 years since the first Big Garden Birdwatch.

Starting in 1979, it has since become a much-loved annual citizen science event, that gives the RSPB a valuable snapshot of how our garden birds are doing in the UK. Over that time, 185 million birds have been counted and nearly 11.5 million hours spent watching and counting garden birds.

Beccy Speight, the RSPB’s Chief Executive, said: “By taking part in the Birdwatch you are joining hundreds of thousands of people from across the UK, united in a love of nature, to play an important role in helping us understand how our UK birds are doing. Big Garden Birdwatch demonstrates the power that people have when they come together for nature. Join us for Big Garden Birdwatch 2024 and together let’s take action to help birds and other wildlife thrive for generations to come.”

House Sparrows celebrated their 20th year as the number one bird

• RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch is the largest garden wildlife survey in the world and provides a snapshot of how garden birds are faring in the UK. • In 2023, over half a million people across the UK took part, counting more than 9 million birds.

• With birds now facing so many challenges due to the nature and climate emergency, every count matters. spotted in UK gardens in 2023. While nearly 1.5 million were spotted across the January weekend, House Sparrows have sadly suffered severe declines. In fact, the number spotted in gardens has dropped by nearly 60% since the Big Garden Birdwatch first began in 1979.

Over its four decades, Big Garden Birdwatch has highlighted the winners and losers in the garden bird world. The Long-tailed Tit, a much-loved species, rose five positions in the rankings last year, with numbers 39% higher than in 2022. However, Long-tailed Tits are susceptible to harsh weather conditions, with the numbers recorded fluctuating since the Big Garden Birdwatch began.

Meanwhile, Greenfinches and Chaffinches have been badly affected by a disease known as Trichomonosis.

As a result, the UK Chaffinch population has declined by 37% over the last decade, while Greenfinches have declined by 62% over the same time frame.

The Birdwatch was first to alert the RSPB to the decline in Song Thrush numbers, which are down 80% compared to the first Big Garden Birdwatch in 1979. This species was a firm fixture in the top 10 in 1979 but by 2009, its numbers were less than half those recorded 30 years beforehand. The Song Thrush scraped

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in at number 20 in the rankings this year, seen in just 9% of gardens.

Beccy added: “The birds we see in our gardens, from our balconies, and in our parks, are a lively, colourful and endlessly fascinating part of all our lives. They connect us with the vital natural world. By taking part in the Birdwatch, you and hundreds of thousands like you, play an important role in helping us understand how UK birds are doing. With birds and other wildlife now facing so many challenges due to the nature and climate emergency, every count matters.”

To take part in the Big Garden Birdwatch 2024, watch the birds on your balcony, in your garden or in your local green space for one hour at some point over the three days.

Only count the birds that land, not those flying over. Tell us the highest number of each bird species you see at any one time – not the total you see in the hour.

Registration for Big Garden Birdwatch 2024 opens 13 December 2023.

To receive your FREE Big Garden Birdwatch guide, which includes a bird identification chart, top tips for your birdwatch, RSPB shop voucher, plus advice on how to help you attract wildlife to your garden, text BIRD to 82727 or visit: www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch

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Volunteers in Lancashire needed to help NSPCC keep school children safe Could you spare just a few hours each month to help the NSPCC keep children in Lancashire safe?

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he charity is looking for new volunteers in Burnley, Blackburn with Darwen, Nelson and Colne, Blackpool, Preston, Lancaster and Chorley, to help share its Speak Out Stay Safe (SOSS) programme in primary schools across the region.

Speak Out Stay Safe is designed to help children aged 5 to 11 understand how to recognise abuse in all its forms.

Using age-appropriate language, it helps them understand that abuse is never a child’s fault, that they have the right to be safe, and how to get help from safe adults and the NSPCC’s Childline service.

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Last year, the NSPCC delivered SOSS online programmes to over 20,000 children in more than 80 schools in Leicestershire. The charity is now looking for volunteers to train to deliver sessions in person this new school year.

Through the programme’s assemblies and workshops, which are delivered by volunteers with the help of mascot Buddy, children learn about the different types of abuse and what to do if they are ever worried about themselves or a friend.

Lindsay Henretty, who lives in Cheshire, has been part of the NSPCC School Service team for eight years and gets a lot of satisfaction from the role.

She said: “It’s a great way to volunteer and make a difference. You get to meet a wide range of people and work as part of a team.

“The real joy is visiting and delivering the Speak Out Stay Safe message in schools.

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“The interaction with children faceto-face is a privilege. It is so important we get the safeguarding message out to all children, so they have that vital information should they ever need it.

“The experience with the School Service is flexible, fun and definitely worthwhile.”

Rebecca Stretton NSPCC School Service Coordinator for Cheshire and Halton said: “I’m so proud of Lindsay and the team. They all have an amazing attitude and dedication to delivering this important safeguarding information to children at primary schools.”

To apply to become an NSPCC schools service volunteer, please visit: https://join-us.nspcc.org.uk/volunteers/ For further information, please contact: volunteerrecruitment@nspcc.org.uk

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Vintage Festival brings sunshine and crowds to Morecambe The September sun shone, the tide was in, and record crowds came to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Vintage by the Sea in Morecambe.

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rganisers of this popular event couldn’t have wished for a better weekend which brought back memories of Morecambe in its heyday when visitors packed the Promenade, beach, pubs, cafes, shops and most iconic buildings.

An estimated 50,000 people attended this year’s event, much to the delight of co-founders, Morecambe-based art and culture company, Deco Publique and Morecambe-born designer, Wayne Hemingway.

“We are so pleased at the record numbers of people who visited Vintage by the Sea this weekend to experience the best of Morecambe Bay, alive with music, fashion and culture,” said Elena Jackson of Deco Publique.

“The festival created a perfect weekend, filled with the joy of the seaside as shops, cafes and bars were packed to the brim, all the way down the Promenade,” added Deco Publique’s Lauren Zawadski.

A glistening Morecambe Bay provided the perfect backdrop for all things vintage, whether it be people dressed in their best bibs and tuckers from yesteryear, dancers jitterbugging the weekend away, mesmerising

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Dandyism performances on the Winter Gardens stage, or a huge collection of classic cars gleaming in the sunshine, and toe-tapping music from eras past.

The Vintage Mobile Cinema the only remaining bus of its kind returned to the festival showing old Pathe film of the former Marineland complex, just a stone’s throw from where it once entertained holidaymakers.

Having promised something for everyone, Vintage by the Sea delivered once again, whether you were a youngster watching The Wagon of Dreams and participating in one of the many family friendly workshops, a vintage enthusiast searching out the best buys at the Vintage Marketplace, or those who enjoy being treated to afternoon tea at the Midland Hotel.

Nostalgia filled the warm air from vintage fairground rides and a family rave to rides aboard original Ribble buses.

And among the new attractions was the unveiling of The People’s Bandstand, a pop-up platform, commissioned by Deco Publique as a legacy project and produced by Morecambe’s Good Things Collective and friends.

In fact, there was so much to see and do that the cancellation of the Spitfire flypast, owing to engine problems, didn’t spoil the fun.

“It was fantastic to see so many people in Morecambe over the weekend, said Coun Catherine Potter, Lancaster City Council’s cabinet member for tourism.

“It was especially lovely to see families enjoying the various activities and entertainment on offer at the festival and local businesses, such as shops and cafes, benefitting from the additional footfall.” www.vintagefestival.co.uk thevintagefestival thevintagefest

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Denise Mullen Denise Mullen is a journalist, writer and entrepreneur

An Irish take on cider making: oh dear.

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is cider season, and it’s busy on the scratting and pressing front. I promise you, those really are ‘a thing’ when it comes to turning apples (or perry pears) into something both beautiful and delicious.

We are proud owners of a scratter and a press.

Johnny (‘The Mongoose’) France, and number one husband, is in charge this year. My hopes aren’t high.

Up until now a very experienced cousin of mine has been in charge. And things have gone well.

Johnny is fabulous at all things mechanical but burns anything remotely involving items edible/drinkable/or vaguely under the category ‘comestibles’.

Now, given my maiden name is Mullen, it’s no surprise that I come from a large (and sometimes leary) big fat Irish family. Said sensible cousin is from the Scottish/Welsh side of the family. He’s busy this year ( big problemo ).

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All of the men (my side) of the family are accomplished at polishing off the odd snifter

would be a great idea to invite the Irish side of our Fam to participate in the apple-fest.

All the men of (my side) of the family are around 6ft 4 (in old money). Johnny is 5ft 7 in boots with a sturdy tread.

All of the men (my side) of the family are accomplished at polishing off the odd snifter.

Johnny is virtually tea total. He’ll have a zeroalcohol beer, or maybe one pint of lager shandy if he’s out and it’s a special occasion or a small G&T with 20 gallons of tonic if it’s a weekend.

So I’m not seeing a match made in heaven here.

I’m seeing Mr Technical overseeing carnage.

And carnage winning.

I’m seeing my giraffe-proportioned (though devilishly handsome) male cousins running amok with the machinery and playing fast and loose with the very, very, very, serious protocols that will probably be pinned up on the barn walls by the time they arrive. www.lancmag.com

As I write the scratting and the pressing is looming and, well, I’m nervous.

One of my cousins works on the docks. He’s so huge I think what he does is pull tankers into the quayside by some unfathomable hand over hand technique applied to a big chain. Fortunately, he’s also charming.

Another towering male cousin is very senior in some Government role. He is funny, smart and engaging. But… he’s more of a rule maker and enforcer. I’m not sure how following someone else (someone ‘shorter’-s) rules will go.

Then there’s my uncle. My lovely Dad’s little brother. He’s 90, he’s 6ft, he’s fit as a flea and has a serious ‘twinkle’ about him. He is also in the ‘not to be trusted’ category, though 100% adorable.

So it will be down to the hard core Irish-rooted women of the family to either 1. Embark on a coup and overthrow the men in the machine or 2. Just go with it.

Well we’re quite laid back, the Irish bit of us…..

So we plan for the worst and hope for the best. Cheers!

What’s on my plate Home grown beef tomatoes with herbs from the garden and some fresh buffalo mozzarella and my favourite Perello Gordal Picante olives.

Delish!

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What’s in my glass Ah, Isle of Harris Gin infused with Sugar Kelp. Unlike Johnny I don’t drown my gin. And I like to try a sip neat first to get the full sense of all of the infused flavours and complexity. I found this gin to be unusual and distinctive and incredibly refreshing as we head into autumn’s mellow vibe.

It felt like beaches at sunset and fresh rushing streams. Given we were in the conservatory, that’s quite a transportation!

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Stonyhurst Wins National Charity Award Stonyhurst is delighted to have won the national ‘Charitable Work Champion’ award in the School House Magazine Awards 2023.

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tonyhurst’s former Head Boy, Dilip Gosall, (OS23) scooped the award thanks to his outstanding charitable efforts during his time at the school, whose Jesuit values of being ‘men and women for others’ encourage pupils to make a positive difference in the world. From fundraising initiatives to volunteer programs, every young person at Stonyhurst helps to drive the spirit of giving back.

Today’s award from leading industry publication, School House, recognises the extraordinary examples of what independent schools are doing beyond the classroom. There were thousands of entries across the seven categories, judged by a five-strong judging panel, resulting in seven worthy winners.

Stonyhurst beat off stiff competition from Millfield School, Somerset and Claremont Fan Court School, Surrey to secure the ‘Charitable Work Champion’ award, with judge Julia Martin, Chief Executive of ISEB, bowled over

by Stonyhurst’s ‘impressive’ list of charity involvement. Editor, Victoria Lambert admired how the school’s ‘integral and holistic approach’ results in pupils like Dilip achieving all that he has, during his 11 years’ at the school - despite Covid and overcoming a life-threatening heart transplant.

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“This is another phenomenal achievement from Dilip, who has a relentless passion in helping others. He is an outstanding part of our Stonyhurst family and continues to be a shining example of a ‘young man for others’ through his continual selfless acts and charitable initiatives.”

This is the second time in a week that Dilip, aged 18, has clinched silverware for his charitable work. Last week, he received the Inspirational Young Adult award at the Best of Lancashire Awards – which celebrates the bravery and achievements of adults and young people across the county.

Over the past five years, Dilip has been a volunteer at a local charity, Maundy Relief, which offers immediate support to those in poverty, and was appointed their youngest trustee. He has been instrumental in raising funds for the charity and completed a 500-mile walk from Accrington to John O’Groats with his fellow trustees. He was also awarded the British Citizen Youth Award at the Palace of Westminster and is an Ambassador for the Model United www.lancmag.com

Nations – a platform where young people discuss global issues.

During his time at Stonyhurst, Dilip was the first Poetry (Lower Sixth) pupil to receive the Gold Diploma which recognises exceptional leadership of cocurricular life. He was nominated by the Director of Christian Formation for work and commitment to the Faith in Action Award.

Commenting on the recent awards, John Browne, Headmaster said: “This is another phenomenal achievement from Dilip, who has a relentless passion in helping others.

He is an outstanding part of our Stonyhurst family and continues to be a shining example of a ‘young man for others’ through his continual selfless acts and charitable initiatives.”

John continued: “Stonyhurst pupils don’t just help others tick a box, many pupils have developed an innate passion for helping others so much. They spend their holidays and spare time helping others in their local or even international communities. We are very proud of everything Dilip and all our pupils achieve, day in, day out, here at Stonyhurst.”

Dilip concluded: “I joined Stonyhurst at the tender age of seven, journeying from St Mary’s Hall through to the College. I have fond memories of my school days.

Stonyhurst has been integral in cultivating me into the young man I am today.”

Stonyhurst was recently awarded the highest possible rating of ‘excellent’ by the Independent Schools Inspectorate, praising the quality of pupils’ academic achievements and the quality of the pupils’ personal development. The Inspectors identified that ‘pupils make excellent contributions to the local community and embrace opportunities to contribute towards improving the lives of others.’

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Aiming Higher You can donate to Aiming Higher using the Following Methods Just Giving | www.justgiving/aiminghigher/donate/ Paypal | Found on Aiming higher website or call to make donations by phone - www.aiminghighercharity.org.uk/donate Post | Aiming Higher, 231-233 Church Street, Blackpool, Lancashire FY1 3PB

To see more of what we do please visit our website www.aiminghighercharity.org.uk or follow us on facebook (aiminghighercharity), Instagram (aiming_higher_charity) or twitter (ahcharity) Please ring us on 01253 206447/8 for further information

Will’s Month

Aiming Higher for Disabled Children & their Families is the Blackpool based charity that supports hundreds of local children and their families.

The charity has been bringing the families of children with disabilities together for over 12 years.

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hile most of the activities on offer are for the children and young people on Friday mornings there are sessions just for the parents/carers.

In October, as part of Will’s Month Aiming Higher offered parents/carers of disabled children a will’s workshop to help plan for their children’s future.

Latoya Sykes, the Charity Manager said “A lot of the parents’ initial reaction was, ‘but I don’t have anything to leave in a will! There’s no point’ but there’s a lot more to planning a will than just who gets to inherit a house or granny’s jewellery. If you have children who would struggle to live independently, you can state who you would like to be responsible for caring for them and you also need to be sure that if you do have any assets that the children’s benefits etc are not affected.”

The workshop started with an online session from The Money Charity’s Justine Piercy, who also provided handouts and copies of their “Money Handbook” to parents. Then parents and carers were also able to speak to Helen Springthorpe, Solicitor and Director at PHH Solicitors who kindly agreed to provide wills for those who attended the session and waive their fee if the client made a donation to the charity.

The feedback from the parents who attended was incredibly positive.

Parents commented that there were lots of aspects that they had not considered and how helpful it was to have the legal jargon explained to them. 8 families took up the offer of the will writing service on the day

with others taking information away to discuss. PHH also offered to have initial meetings on other family law matters free of charge for those who attended on the day.

The workshop was one of a series of monthly workshops provided by the charity to help parents/carers with children with extra needs. November’s event will be around using building blocks (such as Lego) as play therapy and December’s will be a self-care workshop focussing on how to have a slower, quieter Christmas using the Danish concept of “Hygge”. As well as the workshops, the charity offers parents the chance to meet and chat every week, alternating activities such as arts & crafts, cookery demonstrations and guest speakers.

Like all charities, Aiming Higher saw fundraising activity decrease in 2020, so if you can support them in any way possible, be that by designing a room, volunteering, or by donating, any assistance will be gratefully received. Please send your ideas to: heatherholt@aiminghighercharity.org.uk www.lancmag.com

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BOOKS Our roundup of this months literary delights

The Forgotten Tudor Royal Margaret Douglas, Grandmother to King James VI & I

Author: Beverly Adams

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s the daughter and cousin of queens and the granddaughter and niece of kings, Lady Margaret Douglas was an integral part of the Tudor royal dynasty. A favourite of her uncle King Henry VIII and a close friend of Queen Mary I she courted scandal which saw her imprisoned in the Tower of London on more than one occasion. Against the orders of Queen Elizabeth I she plotted the marriage of her eldest son Lord Darnley to Mary, Queen of Scots with disastrous consequences.

She came as close to the executioners block as she did to the throne of England, with some believing she had a right to be queen. A devout Catholic all her life, she lived at a time when religious division split the country in half yet she remained steadfast in her beliefs. A respected and revered lady on both sides of the border, Lady Margaret Douglas,later Countess of Lennox through her marriage, suffered much heartbreak and loss. Her husband and son were both murdered at the hands of the Scots and she outlived all her children.

Despite these tragedies she never gave up on her dream of uniting the thrones of England and Scotland which was realised through her grandson King James VI/I. The story of her life is a remarkable tale of intrigue and survival and deserves to be more widely told.

Highlights • Brings to life one of Tudor England’s most overlooked key players • Looks at Margaret’s key role in bringing about the marriage of her son Lord Darnleyand Mary, Queen of Scots • Examines the relationships she had with her uncle King Henry VIII and cousins QueenMary I and Queen Elizabeth I • Debates how close she came to the throne of England, given her relative anonymity intoday’s historical conscience • Gives an informed account of the Tudor era spanning the reigns of Henry VIII to Elizabeth I

RRP: £22 • ISBN: 9781399085908 • 208 PAGES • HARDBACK • PUBLISHED: AUGUST 2023 • PEN & SWORD HISTORY About the author Beverley Adams was born and raised in Preston, Lancashire. She gained her MA in English in 2018 and her first book, The Rebel Suffragette: The Life of Edith Rigby, was published in September 2021. She is passionate about bringing the lives of inspirational women back to life. Her interests include history, in particular local history, reading and travel.

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Christmas at Dunham Massey Tickets go on sale for Christmas at Dunham Massey with new lights for 2023

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hristmas at Dunham Massey, the after-dark illuminated festive trail, will return to the iconic National Trust venue in the North West between 17 November and 31 December.

Firmly positioned within the UK’s seasonal calendar, public demand for this hugely popular Christmas trail near Manchester is high, so advanced booking is strongly advised to avoid disappointment.

Matthew Findlay, Head of UK Trails for Sony Music/Raymond Gubbay Ltd, said: “Positive public feedback was overwhelming last year and we urge everyone to come and see our exciting new innovations for 2023. The trail will be a fantastic combination of spectacular new creations and some classic favourites, which will delight visitors young and old in what has become a festive family tradition for so many.”

New for 2023, discover colour-changing batons of light stretching out into the distance; a huge silver star, Nova, shrouded in mist as if just fallen from the sky; and star-shaped arches high above you. There will also be a magical glimpse of Father Christmas along the way.

Christmas at Dunham Massey is full of seasonal surprises and shimmering reflections that cast light on beautiful silhouettes of majestic trees, all choreographed to a soundtrack of festive favourites.

Georgina Lofthouse, General Manager of Dunham Massey, added: “It’s wonderful to see so many people enjoying the Georgian house, gardens and deer park adorned with seasonal sparkle at Christmas time.

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“Every ticket sold supports the National Trust to look after this special place for everyone to enjoy, from caring for the roaming fallow deer to ensuring the historic longevity of the historic collection in this house.”

Along the trail, independent street food vendors bring a delicious twist with tasty treats on offer. Complete your walk under the stars with a *spiced winter warmer or *hot chocolate shared with friends and family.

Above: Nova

Left: Pixel Tree

Left: Christmas at Dunham

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Everyone loves toasting a marshmallow over an open fire and the artisan *marshmallow stall gives visitors the chance to warm their hands and enjoy this sweet outdoor tradition.

Your very merriest Christmas starts here.

Limited capacity with timed entry. Book now at christmasatdunhammassey.seetickets.com to secure the date and time of your choice. *separate charges apply Save the Date: The media preview evening will be held on Thursday, November 16.

Christmas at Dunham Massey is brought to you by Sony Music in partnership with the National Trust.

The trail is created by Culture Creative.

What:

Christmas at Dunham Massey - The illuminated trail through festive gardens

When:

From 17 November - 31 December (closed 20, 21, 27, 28 Nov; 4, 11, 25 Dec).

Open from 4.30pm, last entry 8.30pm (excluding 24, 26, 31 Dec) and closes at 10pm.

Why Visit: Discover a Christmas illuminated trail for all the family set within the beautiful landscape of Dunham Massey.

Admission: Limited availability, therefore early booking is advised. Advanced tickets from: Adult £19, child £12.50 (age 3-16), family £41-60 (1 or 2 adults, plus 2 children). Parking £8, National Trust members can park for free if booked BEFORE the day.

Website:

christmasatdunhammassey.seetickets.com/

Address:

Dunham Massey, Altrincham, Cheshire WA14 4SJ

Image Credits Christmas at Dunham Massey, My Christmas Trails 2022. Photo by Richard Haughton © Sony Music Nova by Studio Vertigo. My Christmas Trails 2022. Photo by Richard Haughton © Sony Music Pixel Tree, by ArtAV. My Christmas Trails 2022. Photo by Richard Haughton © Sony Music

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Light Up Lancaster 2023 Full Lineup announced

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ight Up Lancaster returns to mesmerise crowds once more, on a journey through the city’s squares and enchanting alleyways, creating an immersive world of light art installations and captivating performances of music, art, and dance.

Due to its popularity, the festival is extending its usual two-day duration to a three-day spectacle, taking place from the 2nd - 4th of November from 5pm - 9pm.

A new addition this year will take place at Lancaster Market Square which will come alive with local street food stalls offering a wide range of hot food, cakes and drinks. Visitors can grab something to eat and drink from the stalls or surrounding shops, sit in a beautifully lit dining space and enjoy live music from local musicians throughout the night. Creating a community hub for LUL. The market is brought to us by LESS, a Lancaster-based charity.

Familiar locations return This year, with the ever popular Castle Illuminations being created

by Illuminos, who present; ‘The Great Cower’, promises projections that will capture the beauty, scale, imagination and fancifulness of the artists who embellished the Great Cowcher, more than 500 years ago.

Dalton Square will be lit by imitating the dog with their project ‘Dear Einstein’, In an elegy to a great scientific mind, they playfully ask some of the BIG questions about life’s ups and downs. Combining their trademark video design, an original score by James Hamilton and live performance with local singers.

St John’s church will feature an interactive, projected tempest – a hyper-real representation of bodies of water as a source of life, and the mysteries they hold within. Using a live generative particle system, the tempest will be reactive to the viewer’s presence, full of surprises, enchantment 176

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and encouraging playfulness as audiences move under the ‘curled clouds’ above. The third and final part of the company’s interactive ‘water’ trilogy, all supported and commissioned by Light Up Lancaster.

The Storey Gardens will feature a project called Firefly Field, a mesmerising light installation of numerous flying light points that stimulate the movements of these nocturnal Lampyridae. The ever-changing bioluminescence of each one is reflected in the grassy slope. On mass, they create a dynamic light scene that triggers visitors’ curiosity and awe.

With extended hours, running from 5 pm to 9 pm each night—almost double the duration from the previous year—visitors will have ample time to experience the brilliance and wonder of this oneof-a-kind festival.

Light Up Lancaster has captivated audiences since 2013, and thanks to generous funding from Arts Council England (ACE), Lancaster City Council, Lancaster BID, and several other esteemed contributors, promises to be an exceptional fusion of art, culture, and history, taking visitors on a luminous journey through the artistic interpretations of words and language as this year’s theme focuses on: The Art of Words.

We invite all to join in celebrating this remarkable expansion of one of Lancaster’s most cherished traditions.

For the full lineup of events visit: https://www.lightuplancaster.co.uk/ Facebook: @lightuplancaster Twitter: @lightuplanc Instagram: @lightuplanc www.lancmag.com

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Michael Adex announced as winner of inaugural ‘Industry Icon’ Northern Music Award Shortlists announced for Inspirational Venue of the Year category

Longlist announced and public voting open to choose the North’s Favourite Festival of the Year ‘First of its kind’ Northern Music Awards held by Nordoff and Robbins Music Therapy

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nnounced today, founder and CEO of Manchester-based talent management company NQ, Michael Adex, will receive the first ever Industry Icon Award at the inaugural Nordoff and Robbins Northern Music Awards supported by Ticketmaster, set to be held on Thursday 30 November 2023 at Aviva Studios – Manchester’s landmark new arts, music and culture space and home of the world-renowned Factory International.

Renowned for showcasing emerging musical talent from the North of England, including North Manchester BRIT award winning rapper Aitch, NQ’s management, label, and publishing arms have surpassed 3 billion streams and eight platinum certifications since 178

Adex founded the company from his bedroom in 2017.

Michael also created NQ Legacy, a not-for-profit pathway organisation for young creatives from The North to help them explore careers in music and the creative arts sectors.

Northern Music Award Industry Icon 2023 winner, Michael Adex, said: “It is a great feeling to be recognised by the Northern Music Awards as their first Industry Icon. There is so much amazing, diverse talent in the North and I’m proud that NQ is playing a part in letting the world know about it.

“The North massively deserves to have its own awards show to highlight the rich heritage and wealth of musical creativity that comes from here. Nordoff and Robbins has created a long-term legacy with the Northern Music Awards to bring more music therapy to isolated communities, this is inspirational, and I am excited for their new centre to open in Salford.”

The Nordoff and Robbins Northern Music Awards supported by Ticketmaster (NMAs) is the first music awards show to recognise and celebrate the breadth of talent across the North of England. The annual event will be

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held by the UK’s largest music therapy charity, Nordoff and Robbins - in a different Northern city each year - to honour artists, festivals, venues and industry figures from the region.

Nadra Shah, director of engagement and communications, Nordoff and Robbins said: “We are thrilled to honour Michael Adex for his enormous contribution to the success of so much thriving musical talent emerging from the North. Fundamental to the success of Michael’s artists – including the multiaward-winning Aitch – is their ability to connect with their audience. Our aim is to support and help to grow the eco system of Northern musicians whilst shining a light on the transformative work we do with music therapy, to connect with some of the region’s most isolated communities. We are immensely proud of the work we do in the North, next year we will be celebrating 20 years since we started delivering music therapy in Manchester.”

Also announced today, a raft of grassroots live music venues has been shortlisted by the awards’ judging panel of Northern music industry experts, in two Inspirational Venue categories (under 500 and under 2,000 capacity),

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sponsored by primary ticket outlet and online events guide, Skiddle.

Nominees and winners are still to be announced for the NMAs in categories ranging from the Northern Music Award, Breakthrough and Newcomer to Best Artist, Band of the Year, DJ of the Year and Disruptor. A special Music and Culture for Wellbeing award, supported by the Greater Manchester Music Commission, will highlight outstanding and innovative creative arts provision in the North, that uses music and culture to support and connect with people that face health, wellbeing, and socioeconomic challenges.

Jamie Scahill, head of marketing, Skiddle said: “Skiddle is incredibly proud to be supporting the inaugural Northern Music Awards and sponsoring the Inspirational Venue of the Year award. The grassroots venues of the North deserve to be recognised as they underpin the Northern music scene and culture. Skiddle was conceived in an independent venue in Preston 22 years ago and we have been supporting them ever since. We are grateful that Nordoff and Robbins are coming up North and we look forward to working with them for years to come.”

The new Greater Manchester Nordoff and Robbins music therapy centre in Salford will be a multi-disciplinary music making and therapy space, housing a high spec recording studio with interactive, accessible music technology throughout, serving the needs of individuals and diverse Northern communities.

Inspirational Venue of the Year (under 500) Brundenell Social Club – Leeds Future Yard – Birkenhead Night and Day – Manchester Trades – Hebden Bridge Yes – Manchester Inspirational Venue of the Year (Under 2,000) Albert Hall – Manchester Band on the Wall – Manchester Barbican – York City Hall – Newcastle New Century Hall – Manchester To show support for these venues that champion diverse talent and provide a platform for artists to perform in front of Northern audiences, Nordoff and Robbins will be sharing half of the proceeds from Skiddle’s sponsorship of these award categories with registered charity Music Venue Trust. The proceeds will help Music Venue Trust in continuing its mission to protect, secure and improve UK Grassroots Music Venues for the benefit of venues, communities, and upcoming artists.

Beverley Whitrick, chief operating officer, Music Venue Trust said: “Music Venue Trust is delighted to see Nordoff and Robbins celebrate the vibrancy of the music scene in Northern England with these new awards. The inclusion of the Inspirational Venue category, which acknowledges the importance of grassroots music venues to artists and audiences, is wonderful to see and MVT is thrilled to have been invited to be part of this by Nordoff and Robbins.” www.lancmag.com

The NMA judging panel has also selected 19 events for the Favourite Festival of the Year award shortlist, including Liverpool’s Sound City, Cheshire’s Blue Dot, Yorkshire’s Deer Shed, Stockport’s Moovin and Lancaster’s Highest Point, with the 20th to be decided by audiences from The Manc, The Hoot and The Sheff.

The performance-packed show, headlined by Special Recognition award winner Melanie C, will raise money to help fund the opening of a new Nordoff and Robbins dedicated music therapy centre for Greater Manchester – based in Salford – and will kickstart a new chapter in celebrating diverse talent from the North of England, year after year. A VIP drinks reception will be held for music industry guests, followed by the public awards event. Premium tables will be available to book in advance – To register your interest, please contact the Nordoff and Robbins team here: https:// www.nordoff-robbins.org.uk/registeryour-interest-for-northern-musicawards-premium-package.

Nordoff and Robbins delivers music therapy to clients across the UK from bases in London, Croydon, Newcastle, Dunfermline and Glasgow, and its biggest service area is currently the North of England, with 45 music therapists and 118 partner organisations providing nearly 20,000 sessions of vital music therapy to more than 4,300 people in the region. Through the power of music, Nordoff and Robbins’ trained music therapists break through the barriers caused by life-limiting illness, disability, and social isolation.

The NMAs continue Nordoff and Robbins’ close partnerships with the UK music industry, developed since the creation of its annual Silver Clef music awards in 1976. The judging panel comprises industry heavyweights including Ticketmaster, SJM Concerts, GigPig, Music Venue Trust, Live Nation, BIMM Institute, Kendall Calling and Sound City Liverpool, as well as BBC Radio 6 Music presenter Chris Hawkins, who will host the November event.

Find out more about Nordoff and Robbins at nordoff-robbins.org.uk

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It’s a Grand double date for playwright John Godber Award-winning writer John Godber OBE is back at Blackpool Grand Theatre with exciting new work Do I Love You? this September and his iconic comedy Bouncers in February 2024

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ioneering playwright John Godber OBE will bring a darkly funny and dramatic double act to Blackpool Grand Theatre this season.

John’s joyful love letter to the Northern Soul music scene Do I Love You? will make its Grand debut in The STUDIO from Tuesday 19 to Saturday 23 September while his original cult comedy Bouncers is back with a bang in an acclaimed new production from Wednesday 21 to Friday 23 February 2024.

Snap up the LINK TICKET tickets for both of these unmissable shows and save £7!!!

Do we love John Godber? Indeed we do…

Do I Love You? follows Yorkshire twenty-somethings Sally, Nat and Kyle as they attempt to seek employment after graduation. Reluctantly working in a fast food outlet, their youthful optimism begins to fade as they meet the harsh realities of life in England in 2023. But when they are exposed to

Frank Wilson’s classic Northern Soul single on a regular basis it’s not long before they have a new soundtrack to their lives and the tribe they’ve been looking for. Now they can’t get enough; from Brid Spa to Stoke and from Eggborough to the Tower Ballroom, our young soulies are determined to keep the faith!

Authentic, funny and painful, Do I Love You? is an arrow to the heart as our trio fall in and out of jobs and love whilst attempting to master the dance moves! This is Northern Soul for a new generation, but with rising costs, unemployment, and small-town blues, is this England 1973 or 2023?

And has anything really changed?

Featuring Northern actors Chloe McDonald, Emilio Encinoso-Gill and Martha Godber and choreographed by the World Northern Soul Dance Champion 2022, Sally Molly, this is certainly not the show to miss if you want to keep the faith. Grab your loafers, spread the talc and join this hilarious trio out on the floor as they head off for another hilarious weekender!

Get your glad rags on and get ready for the night out of your life! The Bouncers are back in town! Originally premiering at the Edinburgh Festival in 1977, John Godber’s highly revered and critically acclaimed Bouncers is still one of the most performed plays in the UK and is named as one of The National Theatre’s ‘Plays of the Century’. Often imitated but never

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beaten, the original Bouncers is eyewateringly funny, coarsely celebratory, and as bitingly relevant today as it ever was. With a pumping 80s soundtrack, this new production takes us back to the glorious highs when disco was king, and everyone lived for the weekend.

Like a hideously funny Saturday Night Fever, Bouncers is more a social phenomenon than a play.

Hilarious, vulgar, frenetic and highly physical, Bouncers has also become an international sensation, gathering awards from around the world. Join Les, Ralph, Judd and Lucky Eric as they relive an unforgettable night in a Yorkshire disco in the 80s. Everyone will be there: the DJ, the girls, the boys and the fish and chip van…

Book your seat now and Celebrate Good Times, Come on!

John Godber’s Do I Love You? is at Blackpool Grand Theatre from Tuesday 19 to Saturday 23 September at 7.30pm with a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm. These shows will be performed in The STUDIO. All tickets £19.50 John Godber’s Bouncers is from Wednesday 21 to Saturday 24 February 2024 with matinee performances on Wednesday & Saturday at 2.30pm.

Tickets from £17.50 with a school rate available.

Special LINKED TICKET available when booking for both John Godber productions saving £7!!! Only available by calling the Box Office on 01253 290190 or in person at the sales counter.

Visit blackpoolgrand.co.uk for full show listings and bookings or call the box office on 01253 290 190 for bookings and further information.

John Godber’s Do I Love You? Tue 19 to 23 Sep 2023 7.30pm in the STUDIO Sat matinee at 2.30pm John Godber’s Bouncers Wed 21 to Sat 24 Feb 2024 Thu & Sat matinee at 2.30pm Grand Theatre 33 Church Street, Blackpool FY1 1HT Box Office 01253 290 190 blackpoolgrand.co.uk blackpoolgrand grandtheatrebpl Grand_Theatre

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Colour and Style

www.sarahharrisstyle.co.uk

OUR SECTION ON COLOUR AND STYLE WITH S A R A H H A R R I S F R O M ‘ CO LO U R M E B E AU T I F U L’

Have yourself a colourful Christmas...

I’m Sarah Harris and I’m a Colour and Style Consultant who trained with Colour Me Beautiful the world’s leading Image consultants. My background is in fashion and after leaving school at 16, I travelled to London to work as a Fashion/Photographic Model, I enjoyed the life and it allowed me to travel the world, during my career I also worked in wholesale/retail within the fashion industry.

I learnt all about fabrics, business, international companies and trying all those clothes on – the quality, cut and fabric. I took a break from the business when I married and had our two children. I retrained as an Image Consultant with Colour Me Beautiful who have been changing the lives of women and men for over 40 years.

I’d like to inspire you with Colour, Style and Skincare tips every month, I’m hoping to give you an interesting read.

If there is something that you would like to know about please email me and I will do my best to help.

December is finally upon us and I know that it’s a busy month for many. But don’t forget to invest in yourself, whether that is a bit of a pamper session, some retail therapy or taking time to read this magazine with a hot drink and a mince pie!!

Last month we looked at how to wear Black however this month I think we should look at two colours that are on trend this year – Red and Purple not necessarily together, although for the Dramatics and Creatives these combinations would be sensational!!

And most importantly I’d like to celebrate 40 Years of Colour Me Beautiful…

E sarah@sarahharrisstyle.co.uk D www.sarahharrisstyle.co.uk 182

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Colour Me Beautiful are Celebrating 40 Fabulous Years of Colour and Style!!

We are celebrating 40 Years of our Colourful Business!! Cliff Bashforth MD of Colour Me Beautiful took over the business in 2016 and before that was their most successful consultant! Cliff has been a wonderful advocate for Colour Me Beautiful bringing the transformational power of Colour into the lives of thousands of individuals since he first trained in 1988, alongside Pat Henshaw director of Training and leading Presenter who specialises in training all new consultants. Pat is also co-author of Colour Me Beautiful, Image Matters for Men, Colour Me Slimmer, Be Beautiful Bride and The Make-up Manual.

Our delicious cake made by WI member Linda Mallinson who makes the most delicious cakes!! This cake didn’t last long!!

At the beginning of September we spent a wonderful weekend Celebrating in Manchester, catching up with fellow consultants from all over the UK and World!! There were workshops to inspire and awards to be received and I was very pleased to receive one of them at this year’s very special event!!

I am sure most people have heard or come across someone who has had their colours done with Colour Me Beautiful!! In the early 80’s we worked in seasons moving into Tonal Directions in the 90’s. CMB have been pioneers in Colour and have transformed the lives of millions of individuals for 40 years and we continue to do this today.

I would love to hear your Colour Me Beautiful stories so please do get in touch by email to sarah@sarahharrisstyle.co.uk and let me know your story and if you have any pictures of wallets or books from the 80’s! The history of our company is fascinating and if you are part of it then even more exciting!!

Some of Colour Me Beautiful’s Consultants at our annual conference – Pat Henshaw and Cliff Bashforth holding the cake.

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Receiving my Bronze award, from Cliff Bashforth MD of Colour Me Beautiful, at our 40 Year Celebration Conference and of course I wore Red!.

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Can You Wear Red?

A Pop Of Red?

Red is the colour of passion, excitement and energy!! It inspires confidence and shows confidence to others! Wearing it at the end of the week when your energy levels are sagging is perfect for that shot of energy!! Although not a good colour if you are trying to calm children down at bedtime!

My Colleague, Tory is wearing the Colour Me Beautiful Red scarf with Chocolate Brown, which looks stunning on her!

There are many varieties of Red from the Cooler Reds (Blue based) like Raspberry to Warmer Reds (Yellow-based) like Tomato! Of course we can all wear Red as there is a shade for everyone but which one is for you…

www.transformwithcolour.co.uk

Add A Bit Of Sparkle

Cool tones add Silver

LIGHTS: Geranium is a lovely lighter shade of red that complements your delicate look.

DEEPS: Bittersweet is an intense, deep red that works so well with your stronger look.

WARMS: The key for you is to choose a red that has a hint or orange to balance your golden tones.

COOLS: A red with an undertone of blue such as Raspberry looks sensational on you.

CLEARS: Choose a vivid red in fabrics that reflect the light for maximum impact.

SOFTS: A softer shade of red such as Geranium will complement your muted look.

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Chloe Jacket by www.kettlewellcolours.co.uk worn with silver accessories, notice the red Jacket has a silver zip and even the blue belt has a silver buckle!

Whatever Christmas we have this year, it’s always a good time to ramp up the sparkle. But will that be Silver or Gold?

When combining your red with a bit of glitz, think about the tone of your skin. You will either have a warm or cool skin tone. Red and Gold looks wonderful on those with warm skin tones, whilst Red and Silver will look fabulous on those with cooler tones. Think about the colour of your accessories and also the detail on your clothing.

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Purple is such a Vibrant and cheerful colour and it’s a very special shade in the Colour Me Beautiful world, because it’s one of the very few colours that suits everyone without exception.

Purple encourages creativity and radiates calmness. Often associated with royalty and mystic, purple is a complex and diverse shade.

It isn’t a colour that many feel comfortable wearing top-to-toe, but works well worn as an accent with a neutral palette.

Warm tones add Gold Red Swirl Print Longline Shirt by www.sosandar.com worn with Gold accessories.

All-Embracing Purple

Cashmerino Scoop in Wisteria by www.kettlewellcolours.co.uk

Purple Scarf and Purple Rain Lipstick by www.colourmebeautiful.co.uk

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The above Cashmerino Scoop from Kettlewell colours is perfect for this season, Wisteria is in the purple family so very on trend! It’s a beautiful, luxurious fabric that will keep you warm and cosy this Christmas! It also comes in Raspberry sorbet and a host of beautiful colours! It looks great with the neutral trousers.

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Introducing Colour Me Beautiful’s new Mulberry Silk Scarves to commemorate our 40th Birthday

Gifts Galore (In Every Colour) Along with our new Sofia Scarves Colour Me Beautiful have a range of colourful scarves, make-up and skincare products which make perfect gifts for Christmas.

Mulberry Silk is one of the most luxurious and strong silks in the world, so not only will it give you years of enjoyment, you will feel a million dollars wearing it! There are three different colour combinations one that suits those with Cooler tones, one for those better in Warm tones and the Universal one which suits everyone!!

Colour Me Beautiful Purple Scarf and Make-up www.colourmebeautiful.co.uk

For any advice on Colours, Style, Make-up, skincare or if you are interest in Gift sets or vouchers please contact me sarah@sarahharrisstyle.co.uk The Cool Sofia Is made up of Cornflower, Soft White, BlueGreen, Cassis and Hot Pink for those with Cool undertones.

The Warm Sofia is made up of Olive, Turquoise, Cream, Terracotta and Orange-Red.

The Universal Sofia is made up of colours that we can all wear; Soft White, Teal, Purple, Pewter, Taupe and Stone.

All of the above scarves by www.colourmebeautiful.co.uk 186

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Wishing you all the very best for a Happy and Peaceful Christmas !!

Look after yourselves and each other, Warm Wishes, Sarah x

www.sarahharrisstyle.co.uk email. sarah@sarahharrisstyle.co.uk

Style

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More Music announces autumn 2023 season – the culmination of their 30th anniversary

This autumn, More Music in Morecambe proudly presents a new season of events, gigs, workshops and festivals, the culmination of their 30th anniversary celebrations.

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t the beginning of October, the community music organisation will mark three decades of music-making and community events in the West End, by inviting you to dance the night away at their 30th Anniversary Ceilidh on Saturday 7 October at 7.30pm, and then celebrate in style at their Birthday Party on Sunday 8 October at 1.30pm, with films, presentations, food and music.

On Saturday 7 October in the daytime, from 12pm to 4pm, More Music will join hundreds of Fun Palaces nationally and internationally set to explode with free and fun activities for all. Their Fun Palace will share and celebrate the skills of everyone, offering the space to learn something new, share hobbies with friends, and discover the joy of creativity in a relaxed and fun filled environment.

Offering a compelling introduction to community music, on Saturday 30 September, the More Music team will lead a training day from 10am to 3pm, offering the opportunity to learn more about community music and inclusive music-making from experienced music leaders and gain new skills to apply in your own practice.

The monthly gig series, All the Right Notes, returns with The Rockin’ Rhinos on Saturday 4 November at 1pm, making gigs fun for little ones and their grown-ups too. After a hit show last winter, Baked A La Ska will return to More Music on Saturday 2 December at 8pm, serving up the sweetest of good party vibes, vintage ska sounds and an eccentric platter of covers. All the Right Notes tickets range from £5-£10; under 18s go free.

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As part of their acoustic UK tour, Moulettes will take to the stage on Saturday 11 November with support from bewitching live performer Laura J Martin. Eclectic music for Indie, Experimental, Folk and Classical lovers alike, Moulette’s acoustic show is a delicious interplay of dramatic orchestration, big riffs, string baths & kaleidoscopic lushness.

One of the UK’s top young bluegrass and folk acts, The Carrivick Sisters perform at 8pm on Friday 17 November at The Gregson in Lancaster.

The duo is rapidly building a reputation for engaging and entertaining live performances with tight sibling vocal harmonies and multi-instrumental virtuosity. Having grown up in South Devon, an area rich in folklore and legends, much of their original material is inspired by their local surroundings and history. The Carravick Sisters will be supported by passionate protest singer John Kelly.

Fun for all the family, More Music’s annual West End Winter Lantern Festival returns to Morecambe on Saturday 2 December, welcoming in the festive season. Expect amazing music from Baybeat Streetband who rework festive classics into funky beatfilled stompers, and a shimmering procession, which will weave its way through the streets of the West End featuring paper lanterns created by the community and the giant Sea Spirit puppet. Cacophany Arkestra will join the procession, bringing their rewrites of carnival classics with a focus on climate change.

Kathryn MacDonald, More Music’s Director says “During the past 30 years More Music have nurtured new talent, created safe spaces for people to grow and develop and also established a programme which has featured a remarkable and diverse mix of performers and artists. This season is no different and we hope you find something to excite your interest.”

For more information, listings and to book tickets visit www.moremusic.org. uk/whats-on or call 01524 831997 (Monday – Friday between 10am and 2pm). www.lancmag.com

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Arty-Barty-Bush Harold Gosney

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n my memory, he is still there with his wooden barrow

and broom, always on the same corner of the lane, sweeping up leaves. A troop of children on our way up to school or down, we did not question why Arthur Barker appeared there more often than at other spots.

That spot is about half-way up the hill from Lane Bottom to Haggate School - a place with no room for a real pavement because of the wall. An ancient copse up a steep bank crowds above the wall and darkens the path; the base of the wall narrows the path. Ah, now it’s clear of course why he was often found there, brushing, and forking it all up into the barrow. Trees doing what they love to do each year would cause quite a heap at certain times. Yet time, for me, has squashed the year into a continuous fall of leaves and an ever-present Arty-Barty-Bush.

I need to explain the title of my tale. The grown-ups were amused at one toddler’s attempt to say, ‘Arthur Barker’s brush’. That was all. Odd twists of pronunciation and especially local errors like that run down like laughter for decades. For as long as people are local. Not people who have moved here and don’t know things that we know, nor say things as strongly as we say them. Strongly as we say them.

Some children had more sweets than others. After school, Every day of our primary years we would plod the same they seemed to go in the corner shop at the crossroads route. Arthur Barker’s voice was no more than a rumble from the earth. The growl meant ‘ow do? His face was very more often than I did. My weekly penny did not stretch to a old. Out in all weathers, an old man doing that job for so stick of liquorice, but you could ask somebody if you could many years: did anybody pay him? I understood his pause, chew the other end of theirs for a bit. Walking back down his leaning on the broom: Glad to talk to young’uns. Glad the hill again, there were flags to walk on, all nice and wide of other people. But I hear now that my benign image is and regular. We called them flags but I noticed later that when real stone was replaced with concrete slabs, it got not the whole story. Another in our troop heard other things, If you don’t behave, I’ll tell ‘police on yer! I’m left called pavement. wondering if I was as deaf then as now, or did I whitewash It’s only when you get to that narrow bit on the left that you these encounters? Once around the corner he was forgotwalk one after the other because it’s uneven. And it’s shady ten, a character taken for granted. He had no parents, no when the leaves are hushing overhead, or it’s windy and wife, no children, he did not live anywhere. He was like the leaves are waiting for Arthur’s brush. But nobody walks our school-teachers whom the youngest kids assumed on that narrow bit anymore - too many cars. Quite likely must live at school. Teachers do not go to shops or go the council has removed the path altogether to widen the home for tea. Road sweepers only sweep roads. School was road. Instead, they created a safe pathway on the other side at the very top of the hill. If it was dry weather, good; if of the road, and a swathe of red colour warns drivers of wet, still good but we wore rubber trousers over our possible walkers. When they created the new path, they did clothes. Marvellously unfashionable and perfectly acceptnot remove the wall there, but put in some steps. So it’s able because most of us wore them. Once in the school high and with a valley on the far side it can be windy, and porch the rubber clothing was removed with whatever there’s a handrail. difficulty, along with wellies and any wet socks. We weren’t But I don’t know about that because I don’t go that way. I’m supposed to climb onto the great iron radiators to get still walking where memory warm, but we did. We were a clan and we knew where the plays the leaves into a dance, and we talk to an old man rules stretched to and we all played the games which kids with a wooden barrow. do – until we heard the caretaker’s voice. Then we would jump down and find our class-rooms.

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The wedding of Mr & Mrs Gregson At the Shireburn Arms, Clitheroe

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t the heart of the Ribble Valley, surrounded by stunning countryside we married on Friday 22 September at the Shireburn Arms, Clitheroe. The 17th Century Inn was filled with charm, character and warmth and the ambience created a rustic, romantic and relaxed feel - the day was perfect in every way. With breathtaking views, a stunning terrace and gorgeous gardens we couldn’t have asked for more!”

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& INTEGRITY

JUST GENUINE PRICES AND EXCELLENT SERVICE

Rossendale Interiors is the retail division of J & J Ormerod PLC. With roots tracing back to 1876, we’re a family run business with 6 experienced designers and a reputation that we’re proud of.

For generations we’ve provided quality products and services to customers in Bacup, Lancashire, and the local area.

With us, you’ll find the perfect design for your home. Whether you prefer a traditional or contemporary design, we have more than 40 years of experience with over 50% of our business being from referrals and returning customers. You can relax in the knowledge that you’ll receive a truly personal and professional service with no high pressure sales, so call us now!

From our free planning and design service to the fitting of the last tile, our high-quality products are all realistically priced. We are backed by one of the UK’s leading kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom manufacturers, Rossendale Interiors PLC who have won many awards including the 2009 Gold Award ‘Green Apple’ for being environmentally friendly. We offer 12 months interest free or Buy Now Pay Later subject to status, or longer interest-bearing packages.

High quality products made by our parent company JJO in the Rossendale Valley.

Financially secured through JJO. Plus risk free 12 months ‘Buy Now Pay Later’ option (subject to status)

Showrooms open 7 days per week with over 60 displays to see

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Quality, respect and the very best care!

Something we all want as we head to our later years.

ELKFIELD Health Care recruitment agency has launched this week, and they are setting their sights high, that is ‘high-quality’, supplying agency staff to nursing homes and healthcare facilities across Blackpool, Fylde, Wyre and surrounding areas. Their primary objective is to bridge the gap between healthcare institutions in need of temporary staffing solutions and qualified healthcare professionals seeking flexible employment opportunities.

Elkfield Health Care’s high-quality ensures every detail from the first meeting with the clients achieves their aims, to ensuring the Elkfield team members receive the very highest training, to team members looking and acting with the highest professionalism.

A father and son team, their mission, is to supply healthcare facilities with qualified and caring staff while creating rewarding employment opportunities for healthcare professionals.

Christopher Butt Jnr, Director who has been in the healthcare industry for 11 years said, “Everything about Elkfield Health Care stands for excellence and business value, be it the services we provide or the staff we supply.

“Our aim is to be the leading and most trusted healthcare recruitment agency in Blackpool, Fylde, Wyre and the surrounding areas, known for exceptional service and reliable staffing solutions.”

“If you are looking for great temporary staff, we can provide dependable social, nursing and support staff.

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Elkfield Health Care supplies an extensive range of clients within the social and healthcare industry throughout the area.

And, if you are looking for work, we are seeking persons for all kinds of positions, our range of clients allows you to develop your career with a supportive team in a fastgrowing industry.

“Our staff are our family. We offer competitive rates of pay and quality training to ensure they stay happy and can deliver the best possible services.”

In today’s dynamic healthcare industry, the demand for skilled and dedicated professionals is higher than ever before. However, healthcare institutions often face challenges in finding the right personnel to meet their immediate needs. This is where agency healthcare comes into play, offering a unique and rewarding career path for healthcare professionals.

If you’re looking to join Elkfield Health Care, or would like to discuss your staffing needs, contact them at admin@elkfieldhealthcare.co.uk www.lancmag.com

Why Should Agency Healthcare Be Your Next Career Move.

Flexibility: One of the most significant advantages of agency healthcare work is the flexibility it offers. Healthcare professionals can choose when and where they want to work, allowing them to balance their careers with other life commitments, such as family and personal interests.

Variety of Experience: Agency healthcare workers can work in various healthcare settings, from nursing homes to hospitals, and with different patient populations. This diversity of experience can help professionals expand their skills and knowledge, making them more versatile and valuable in their careers.

Competitive Compensation: Agency healthcare workers often enjoy competitive compensation packages.

Due to the urgent demand for their services, agencies typically offer higher hourly rates compared to full-time positions. This can lead to increased earning potential for healthcare professionals. www.lancmag.com

Networking Opportunities: Working with different healthcare facilities through agency placements allows professionals to expand their professional network. These connections can be invaluable for career growth, as they may lead to permanent job opportunities or referrals for other high-demand positions.

Work-Life Balance: Agency healthcare allows professionals to regain control over their work-life balance. They can choose shifts that suit their schedules, reducing burnout and stress associated with rigid work hours.

This balance is essential for maintaining a healthy and sustainable career in healthcare.

For more information regarding Elkfield Health Care, visit elkfieldhealthcare.co.uk LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 197

Have Yourself a Sneeze-Free Christmas

By Airborne Allergens Expert, Max Wiseberg Christmas is a fun season for most of us but if you’re unlucky enough to suffer from Christmas Tree Syndrome it can turn out to be a misery. Christmas Tree Syndrome is an allergy to your Christmas tree and sets off hay fever-like symptoms in the sufferer such as sneezing, a runny nose and watery eyes.

Scientists from Upstate Medical University analysed clippings from 28 Christmas trees including needles and bark, from a range of species, and found that they housed a staggering 53 different types of mould! [1] In addition, pollen from other trees also gets lodged in the bark.

The study found that pollen grains are collected in the tree bark, not from the parent tree, but from other plants, which can affect hayfever sufferers. When the tree is brought indoors, the tree resin dries, releasing more pollen into the air, causing potential allergic reactions. This condition is known as Christmas Tree Syndrome. The Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology has reported that live Christmas trees collect mould. Scientists examined clippings from home Christmas trees and found they contained highly allergenic mould spores.

Put your tree up as late as possible to help minimise the risk of exposure to the allergens.

organic, drug-free allergen barrier balm has been proven in independent studies to trap both indoor and outdoor airborne allergens from entering the body [2]. If this keeps a sufferer below their trigger level, they will have no allergic reaction.

Use an air purifier to help clear the air of mould particles.

Damp dust and vacuum your home regularly to help prevent the build-up of allergens. Damp dusting helps to stop the dust from being dispersed back into the air.

Keep cuddly toys and blankets in a cupboard to prevent the build-up of allergens on them.

Keep animals clean and well groomed, to reduce allergens from their fur. And keep them out of the room where you sleep.

And it’s not just real fir trees that can cause allergic reactions – there can be dust and mould present on synthetic trees too.

Luckily there are some simple things you can do to help reduce your exposure to the allergens…

Hose down your tree before taking it into the house, or after getting it out of storage, as this can help remove some of the mould and spores – though it’s probably best to get someone who isn’t allergic to do this!

Put your tree up as late as possible to help minimise the risk of exposure to the allergens.

Take care when you’re decorating your tree, or get someone else to do it, as allergens will be disturbed as you move the tree into position and move the branches to hang the decorations and position the lights.

Regularly apply an allergen barrier balm such as HayMax (www.haymax.biz) around your nostrils to help stop the allergens getting up your nose. HayMax 198

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Max Wiseberg Let us know how Max’s ideas work for you – or if you have some which have worked for you which we can share with other readers.

Reference 1] Identification of mold on seasonal indoor coniferous trees Lawrence E. Kurlandsky, Josephine Przepiora, Scott W. Riddell, Deanna L. Kiska.

Correspondence June 2011, Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Vol. 106, Issue 6, Pages 543-544 [2] Chief Investigator: Professor Roy Kennedy, Principal Investigator: Louise Robertson, Researcher: Dr Mary Lewis, National Pollen and Aerobiology Research Unit, 1st February 2012.

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Our fully stocked farm shop is bursting with Christmas goodies from gifts and homewear, to Christmas turkeys and chutneys. And the best part is everything is from local suppliers so you can enjoy a truly unique Christmas.

The Greenlands Kitchen and Bistro serves up hearty meals made from all the fresh and delicious local ingredients from our very own farm shop.

Call in for a tasty bite to eat from 10am- 3pm daily.

New for 2023 Our new events Teepee is the place to be this Christmas to visit Santa & his elves. Keep up to date with all our exciting new events this winter.

Find us

Tewitfield, Carnforth, Lancs LA6 1JH T. 01524 784184

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www.greenlandsfarmvillage.co.uk

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MANISH’S ZODIAC PREDICTIONS

Manish Kumar Arora is a renowned KP Astrologer, Numerologist, Tarot Reader & Vastu Consultant. He has been rendering professional advice to clients with a reasonable degree of success. He has been conferred with the title of ‘Jyotish Varahamihir’ and ‘Jyotish Aryabhatt.’

He has been writing monthly astrological columns for many international magazines.

ARIES 21 Mar - 19 Apr

LEO 23 Jul - 22 Aug

New ideas or aspirations will illuminate and uplift you.

Success among your peers or in the wider cosmos will come for some. Money may come freely, but go freely as well if you’re unrealistic or give way to speculation. Put what you earn into something secure, especially property. There may be an attraction that is renewed through the return of someone to your work circumstances. Make the most of it, though it will be important to realise there will be repercussions. There may be health challenges that necessitate change.

Responsibility, the serious endeavour and dealings with authoritative bodies or people will be the milestones. Some of you may take on new partnership duties. Others may have to carry burdens alone because partners or associates may step back or choose a new direction.

Some may go chasing the rainbows of romance only to find there’s nothing of substance to hold onto. Others may be drawn into a new and enticing partnership that gives both warmth and depth. Feelings will run high but discernment may be flawed.

Favourable Dates: Dec 1, 2, 10, 11, 19, 20 Favourable Colours: White & Blue

Favourable Dates: Dec 4, 5, 13, 14, 22, 23 Favourable Colours: Green & White

TAURUS 20 Apr - 20 May This is a good period to restructure your financial operations. Look to the future. Go for the ‘gilt edge’ proposition. Take the advice of experts and those in the know.

If you put your money into what’s worthwhile and cut back on frivolous expenses, you can do well. You may experience delays or setbacks, but your achievements will be all the greater for your persistence and determination. Travel may bring benefit in work or gain through new associations.

This may also be a good time to learn new skills or advance your education.

Favourable Dates: Dec 1, 9, 10, 18, 19, 27 Favourable Colours: White & Yellow

VIRGO 23 Aug - 22 Sept This is a good period to mix business with pleasure in that you can make strong advances through socialising and social contacts. Gatherings, social events and intense involvements will be part of this period. Some may find new romance through professional encounters. Intuitive responses will be rewarding. The unexpected will take a hand in things. Sudden realisation may alter your course.

Someone new in your life could change your direction.

Close relationships may be influenced or altered in their operating patterns by changes at work or by influential people.

Favourable Dates: Dec 1, 4, 10, 13, 19, 22 Favourable Colours: Yellow & White

GEMINI 21 May - 20 Jun This can be a fortunate period for you and you can flourish through new ideas and connections.

Lord of fortune, throws his weight behind you. There will be important communications and negotiations. You can advance yourself through a practical and discerning approach.

Useful ideas and methods will be there at need and you can have the assistance or advice of experienced professionals as you navigate the road ahead. Singles may find the lure of a new romance through someone with an interesting or unusual occupation.

Favourable Dates: Dec 3, 5, 12, 14, 21, 23 Favourable Colours: White & Red

LIBRA 23 Sept - 22 Oct Your career will flourish if you accept that some things can only be changed over time.

Work patiently around both the obstacles and the people that block your path. There may be changes in belief and new directions with regard to study that come about through partnership changes or, it may be that a new partner opens up a new vista in one or more of these areas.

For those of you in a relationship, there may be a call to travel or study together, seeking the lure of a new horizon that you can share.

Favourable Dates: Dec 1, 2, 10, 11, 19, 20 Favourable Colours: Red & White SCORPIO 23 Oct - 21 Nov

CANCER 21 Jun - 22 Jul There may be an enforced change with domestic arrangements. If there are problems affecting your emotional life, talk them through with those close to you. There will be a need to be clear in all your communications with partners and close associates. Partners may go through unexpected changes of belief or action. Shared ideas, interests or friends may be the glue that strengthens that bond between those of you already committed. New or unusual friends or people may enter the arena of your relationship.

Favourable Dates: Dec 7, 8, 16, 17, 25, 26 Favourable Colours: Yellow & Blue

SAGITTARIUS 22 Nov - 21 Dec New possibilities in career matters will catch the interest of some while others may experience a dramatic shift in interests or beliefs that opens a new road. You may start a career or finish one. Use what you earn to secure your position and you may find yourself sitting pretty. Some of you may even hit the big time if you make that last push towards success with long term goals or important aspirations. Don’t give up on a dream too soon. Take new directions with vigour.

Favourable Dates: Dec 3, 6, 12, 15, 21, 24 Favourable Colours: Purple & Black

CAPRICORN 22 Dec - 19 Jan There is an emphasis on completing old or outstanding matters, this period nonetheless marks the start of an era. Step into it, undeterred by what must be done and you can set patterns and structures that will carry you into the future. Changing your attitudes at a deep level will move you into a new frame of mind and life. There may be new romance or marriage for some. For others, partnership will flourish and changed conditions for your nearest and dearest will bring change for you. Such change may bring an elevation of status.

Favourable Dates: Dec 5, 9, 14, 18, 23, 27 Favourable Colours: Blue & Green AQUARIUS 20 Jan - 18 Feb You may race off at a tangent and explore pastures new. Work may take an unusual turn or you may find yourself dealing with unusual or eccentric people in public life. Some may experience disruption or change while others may decide on change and enact it in dramatic fashion. Some will be pulled between commitments at home and at work and have to find a better balance. This could result in a decision to draw a new boundary line that marks clearly what you will and won’t do on either side of the fence.

Favourable Dates: Dec 3, 7, 12, 16, 21, 25 Favourable Colours: White & Red PISCES 19 Feb - 20 Mar

This is a time to work towards the transformation of your working conditions. You may need to put in the extra effort to shift yourself up the ladder or into a new line of work.

Changes in communication or in avenues of expression will greatly assist your working situation. Family or emotional matters may be linked with overseas connections or travel. Some may find that people of status, such as foreign visitors, academics or professional people become part of domestic life for a time.

Discussion, re-evaluation and insight are important keys in regards to close personal partnership. Relationships and the changes they bring will have a profound impact on your life.

The singles among you may find that travel or study may lead you to the one you’re looking for. New love may be found in the far off cities or in a new environment. And, somewhere along the road, the golden light of new beliefs may be found.

Be ready to ride the waves from a surprise revelation or an upheaval.

Favourable Dates: Dec 5, 8, 14, 17, 23, 26 Favourable Colours: Blue & Green

Favourable Dates: Dec 3, 7, 12, 16, 21, 25 Favourable Colours: White & Red

Manish Kumar Arora, 91-9871062000 | K.P. Astrologer, Numerologist, Tarot Card Reader & Vastu Consultant www.facebook.com/manishastroconsultant | manish@manishastrologer.com 200

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Pet first aid becomes lifesaver for seriously injured dog

Two-year-old Labrador Reggie was out enjoying a Sunday evening walk with his loving owner when disaster struck, and PDSA’s pet first aid advice had to be put into practice.

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hile running through the woods with his canine brother, Ronnie; Reggie sliced his paw open on some broken glass that had been discarded on the ground.

With blood pouring from his cut paw, over a mile from the car and unfortunately no supplies on hand, Reggie’s owner, Jess, utilised her recently learnt pet first aid knowledge to wrap the serious wound with a makeshift bandage. To help stem the bleeding, Jess ripped off a piece of her clothing and applied pressure to the cut. She then covered it with a poo bag, tied loosely round Reggie’s ankle, to keep it clean while they made their way back to the car.

Once home, Jess unwrapped the bandage to clean Reggie’s paw and realised it was still bleeding heavily. She immediately called the vet, who directed them to head straight to their out of hours service.

After being examined, the vet informed Jess that the deep cut had damaged a major blood vessel and would need stitches under general anaesthetic. Luckily the procedure went smoothly and just a few hours later, Reggie was discharged and able to go home for some well-needed rest and recuperation, while his paw heeled.

PDSA Vet Lynne James said: “It can be extremely

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worrying when your pet has an accident or gets injured, especially if you’re far from home and you haven’t got your pet first aid kit with you. In Reggie’s case, his owner did exactly the right thing and helped stem a potentially life-threatening bleed, preventing further contamination and infection to the wound – thanks to the lifesaving advice learnt from our pet first aid leaflet.

“Our guide covers everything from what to do if your pet is having a seizure, to how to cool your pet down safely if they develop lifethreatening heatstroke.

Main picture: Reggie recovering at home Above: Reggie resting with his dog brother, Ronnie

You never know when disaster might strike so it’s very useful to be clued up on pet first aid – it could save a life in an emergency.”

Jess said: “After reading through all of PDSA’s pet first aid advice in the guide, we made sure we had a complete pet first aid kit for the dogs, but I didn’t have it with me on our walk. Despite that, the advice in the guide ended up really being a ‘lifesaver’ when Reggie cut his paw.”

PDSA’s pet first aid guide is available for FREE, you can download your own copy from PDSA’s website: www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-first-aid PDSA relies on donations to deliver life-saving treatment to hundreds of thousands of pets through its 48 Pet Hospitals across the UK. To help keep people and their pets together in times of need, the charity is urgently calling on the public’s support. To find out more about PDSA’s vital work, or to donate, visit www.pdsa.org.uk LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 201

Food & Wine boost Italian tourism Italian cuisine is often said to be the best in the world. Italians are certainly very proud of it and it is a strong identifying symbol. Furthermore, it is a considerable tourist attraction

This is proven by the latest Report on Italian Food and Wine Tourism, which shows that the number of Italians who made a trip with food and wine as the main reason for travelling is still rising. It was 58% in 2023, up by 37% compared to 2016.

In absolute terms, this is an estimated 9.6 million people.

Despite the economic crisis, approximately 1 in 3 Italian tourists say they have a bigger budget for the purchase of food and wine tourism offers, than they did in 2022.

The search for cuisine-based experiences is now common among all Italians: 7 in 10 have selected them at least five times in their latest travels (+25% compared to 2021). This piece of data is in line with the results of the European Travel Commission study, which found that food&wine-based offers were the most popular among European travellers. This trend was also confirmed by the data from the True Italian Experience Observatory, a research centre that studies tourism-related trends, flows and knowledge of Italy around the world. The research centre uses WOSM© (World OpenSource Monitoring), one of the most advanced systems for the collection, selection, processing, media intelligence, analysis and management of data from TV, press, radio, websites and social networking sites. The latest data, which refer to June 2023, confirm that Italy ranks third among the best-known countries worldwide and highlight how the food&wine sector is one of the main elements boosting Italy’s notoriety, rising from 7.15% to 8.52% compared to the previous December 2022 analysis.

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Travelling among Italian areas of excellence Every part of Italy can delight travellers with unique flavours and culinary traditions, including some that are famous and much loved all over the world. Specifically, Italians feel the regions of Sicily, Emilia-Romagna and Campania offer the best food and wine, while the most popular cities are Naples, Bologna and Rome.

But is it really possible to forget all the other regions, each with lots of traditional foods and dishes, prepared with recipes handed down from one generation to the next? From Tuscany to Puglia, from Piedmont to Calabria, from Veneto to Liguria, from Marche to Abruzzo, up to Friuli Venezia Giulia and Trentino Alto Adige: every part of Italy can boast of excellent products to discover and valorise. There is no better way to appreciate these traditional products than to taste them where they are produced, which also provides a unique experience.

The best way to tour the country to discover Italian culinary excellence is travelling by train. With hundreds of daily connections provided by Trenitalia, every part of the country can be reached in a quick, comfortable and sustainable manner.

Specifically, among the proposed tours that can be found on the Trenitalia.com website, Viaggio del gusto (with Intercity trains) stands out: a journey leading to the discovery of Italian food&wine traditions, with descriptions of local cuisine and products and a list of the train connections in each region. https://trueitalianexperience.it/en www.lancmag.com

Construction Progresses Smoothly for Kendal’s Newest Destination Development, First Phase Set to Open Early 2024.

Kendal, Cumbria.

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onstruction work on Kendal’s highly anticipated Spinning Jennies development is proceeding smoothly, with the first phase scheduled for an early 2024 opening. This marks a significant milestone in the project’s progression from vacant former department store to a mixed use space in which locals & visitors can EatMeet-Shop-Live Steady Progress: The dedicated construction team has demonstrated unwavering commitment to ensuring each aspect of the project is executed with precision, lovingly stripping back and breathing a new lease of life into the prominently located historic corner of Kendal town centre.

Early 2024 Debut: The Spinning Jennies team eagerly anticipates the unveiling of the first phase in early 2024.

This initial phase will offer a glimpse of the unique experiences the project will bring to the community.

Community Connection: The visionaries behind Spinning Jennies are dedicated to crafting an inviting atmosphere that will soon transform into a hub for folks of all ages, both residents and guests alike. Spinning Jennies will be a haven for discovering Cumbrian treasures, thoughtfully crafted and served by local independent businesses. Whether it’s unwinding in the charming shops and expansive food hall or taking home a piece of the local lifestyle, everyone is welcome to savor the experience.

Above: The River Kent, Kendal, Cumbria, with Nether bridge.

Key Hires in Retail and Food Hall: In preparation for the early 2024 opening, the development team is delighted to announce key hires in the retail and food hall sectors. These new additions bring a wealth of experience and expertise, promising a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors.

Paul Tidswell, our Retail Director, brings a wealth of 30 years of food retail expertise to Spinning Jennies. His journey includes a notable tenure at Booths, as well as several years contributing to the Westmorland Family’s renowned Tebay & Rheged ventures.

Paul also boasts experience across county lines, having made significant contributions at Keelham Farm Shop.

Paul Jones, our Hospitality Director for Food & Beverage Operations, arrives at Spinning Jennies armed with decades of experience gained from managing food halls and bars. His extensive journey has taken him from the vibrant streets of Hong Kong to the lively heart of Manchester, and most recently, he made his mark in the enchanting Bowness on Windermere.

Geri Ward, from Spinning Jennies, expressed their excitement, stating, “We are thrilled with the progress our construction team has made. It reflects their dedication and expertise. We can’t wait to showcase the first phase and provide a preview of the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.”

The Kendal community’s support and patience during the construction phase are greatly appreciated. As the early 2024 opening approaches, updates can be found on the project’s website at spinningjennies.co.uk and across various social media channels.

Employment Opportunities: The project is set to generate numerous job opportunities, contributing to the local economy and providing livelihoods for Kendal residents and surrounding suppliers. www.lancmag.com

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Public chooses ‘rare’ name for Blackpool Zoo’s baby orangutan

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Pictures show: Jarang with his mother Jingga at Blackpool Zoo

lackpool Zoo has officially named its tiny, critically endangered orangutan baby after an online competition saw the attraction smash its fundraising target for the international Orangutan Foundation.

ideas included Dave, Spike and Jimmy!

The adorable infant, who is the first to be born in Blackpool for more than two decades, has been named Jarang, which means rare in the Malay language.

Jarang was born to mother Jingga and father Kawan on Wednesday 14th June.

A total of £1877.90 was donated by almost 300 people, topping the original goal of £1000. All proceeds will go to the Orangutan Foundation, which works tirelessly to save orangutans by protecting their habitats, working with local communities and promoting research and education.

Luke Minns, Section Head at Blackpool Zoo, said: “Our beautiful little boy has captured the hearts of everyone and, as he is such a special baby, we found it really difficult to choose a fitting name.

“We decided to hand the opportunity to the public and took the chance to raise money for the Orangutan Foundation, which does vital work to try and preserve this magnificent species.

“This means that the baby will have a direct impact on the many projects aimed at saving his wild cousins.

“We had lots of suggestions, including other Malay words, inspirational historical characters such as Winston and other 204

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“With so many fabulous suggestions it was a very difficult choice, but I am confident that between us we have chosen one that really suits him.

Jingga, who is 13, came to Blackpool in 2017 from her birthplace in Barcelona and 13-year-old Kawan, arrived from Apenheul Zoo in the Netherlands in 2022.

Blackpool Zoo’s group of five orangutans is part of the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP).

They live in the Orangutan Outlook facility, which has been specially designed to meet the complicated needs of the stunning species.

The Bornean orangutan was classified as critically endangered in July 2016 by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

This means that this species now faces an “extremely high” risk of extinction in the wild.

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Redrow take a wellbeing break in Woodford World Mindfulness Day was celebrated in Woodford with a special session hosted by a local community group

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he Mindful Smile Company received £725 from Redrow’s latest Woodford community fund, which will be used to offer free mindfulness classes at a local venue.

To celebrate World Mindfulness Day on September 12 Elanor Kortland

from The Mindful Smile, visited the team at Woodford Garden Village to host a session.

Elanor said: “To show my appreciation to Redrow for facilitating the free sessions at the community centre, I wanted to share the benefits of mindfulness with the team.

“Mindfulness is a skill that we can learn, that allows us to be present for what’s going on in our daily lives, to notice and be more grateful for things, and to face our difficulties with kindness rather than run away from them. It has been shown to help lessen symptoms of

depression, anxiety and stress, and to improve feelings of relaxation, general wellbeing, connection to others and emotional regulation. It was great to be able to introduce the sales team to the techniques.”

Redrow’s community fund is linked to Woodford Garden Village and has shared £10,000 between 10 charities and good causes. The Mindful Smile will use its portion to introduce classes to the local community through a 10-week course.

Elanor continued: “The donation will allow people to try the classes free of charge. No previous experience of yoga or mindfulness will be required, and classes will be pitched at a level where beginners are welcome and catered for. Sessions are open to all adults.”

The Redrow sales team enjoyed a mindfulness session hosted by Elanor Kortland

Anna Evans-Kerr, sales director at Redrow NW, said: “It was great that the sales team were able to experience a mindfulness session so they can understand first-hand how our donation is going to benefit the local community.

Promoting positive mental health and wellbeing amongst our employees is hugely important so this cause tied in very well with our work as a company.”

Occupying the former Woodford Aerodrome site, Woodford Garden Village is situated in Cheshire, just on the southerly border of Greater Manchester, and offers a ready-made community with a host of amenities on the doorstep, including its own pub and a primary school, plus a wealth of green spaces and play areas, parks and meadow areas.

To find out more about the free mindfulness sessions please email: elanor@themindfulsmilecompany.co.uk To find out more about the homes currently available at Woodford Garden Village visit: www.redrow.co.uk/ promo/woodford

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wasn’t long before many of London’s most renowned and prestigious cabaret venues were inviting Betty to perform nightly to sell out audiences.

While performing in many West End shows for more than ten years and being inspired by some of the greatest talents from around the world, Betty soon became one of the United Kingdom’s top female impersonators.

After performing for sixteen years in Funny Girls, Simon is back to Blackpool to once again entertain audiences.

Simon added: “Putting on a costume, getting on stage, and making people laugh? Count me in!

Lancashire leading ladies top the bill at Blackpool Pleasure Beach Pantomime Blackpool Pleasure Beach is once again shining a light on Lancashire talent as it announces the names of the local stars who will be wowing audiences at this year’s Christmas Pantomime, Beauty and The Beast.

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eturning to Blackpool’s most highly-anticipated stage production is influencer and TV personality Charlotte Dawson as the enchantress Fortulicious, alongside ITV’s weather presenter Emma Jesson as Mrs Potts, and Blackpool’s own Sarah Ward as Belle.

Simon Green AKA Betty Legs Diamond, who became a household name on the Fylde coast at as a performer at the original Funnygirls venue in Blackpool, will also be joining a fabulous cast of panto pros on The Globe’s iconic stage at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.

Charlotte, from Lytham St Annes, will be beck for her second season as she takes the stage to yet again entertain audiences from near and far. The influencer with more than one million followers on Instagram has previously appeared in reality TV shows such as Rough and Ready, Love Squad, and Celebs on The Farm.

She said: “Pantomimes are a firm staple at Christmas time, and I’m really looking forward to joining the team at 206

Blackpool Pleasure Beach for another year of festive magic.

“There is something so special about stepping into costume and taking the stage to make people laugh, and create memories that will last a lifetime.”

Alongside Charlotte in The Globe will be Lancashire born and based ITV weather presenter Emma Jesson, who is widely known for her sunny “bye, bye” catchphrase. Throughout her long-standing media career, she’s been a runner, researcher, radio reporter, floor and stage manager and presented for ITV, BBC and Channel 4.

These days, Emma also channels her media savvy into event hosting, voiceover and video work, bespoke ladies’ events and race days, as well as training for businesses and institutions.

Emma said: “This is a new experience for me, and I can’t wait to get on the stage and entertain crowds.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach is the home of excellent entertainment, and I feel really lucky and excited to be part of it.

Let the rehearsals begin!”

Also joining the duo on stage will be Simon Green AKA Betty Legs Diamond.

Simon created Betty Legs Diamond in-between shows at the Palace Theatre London in the musical On Your Toes. With Betty’s incredible talent for dance, comedy and impersonation, it

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE

“The cast and crew are extremely talented people, who always put on a show-stopping performance. I’m looking forward to joining them this Christmas and doing what I do best.

“I spent a lot of my career in Blackpool and I’m really excited to return.”

Blackpool’s own Sarah Ward and fellow Blackpool performer Ashley Luke Lloyd will join Charlotte, Emma and Simon on stage. The story of Beauty and The Beast follows an arrogant young prince whose castle’s servants fall under the spell of a cruel enchantress, who turns him into the hideous Beast until he learns to love and be loved in return. Can the beautiful Belle bring the withdrawn Beast out of his isolation, lifting the wicked spell?

CEO Amanda Thompson OBE said: “We have a gifted cast who we are incredibly proud of, and we can’t wait to showcase their talent to our audiences. This is not one to miss!”

Beauty and The Beast runs on selected dates from 25th November until 24th December with tickets starting from £12 per person.

To book, please call 0871 222 9090* or visit www.blackpoolpleasurebeach. com/shows/cinderella-the-pantomime.

Special schools packages are available.

To book please contact our Groups Department on 0871 222 8787* or email groups@bpbltd.com *Calls will cost 13 pence per minute plus your telephone company’s access charge

www.lancmag.com

School in #HelloYellow Fundraiser P

upils at Bolton School Girls’ Division have been raising funds for the young people’s mental health charity, YoungMinds through taking part in #HelloYellow day. The ‘wear something yellow’ day on Tuesday 10 October proved popular and, along with the sale of yellow ribbons and Year 9 sweet sales that have been taking place all week, has seen the school raise significant funds.

Head of Year 9 Mrs Walters and Mr Radcliffe oversaw the fundraising and they predicted that the Girls’ Division was on course to raise over £1,000.

Year 8 Gymnast is Milano Champion Ruby Spencer, a Year 8 pupil at Bolton School Girls’ Division, opened her 2023/4 British Gymnastics Artistic competition season with an impressive haul of medals from the Milano Invitational 2023 in early September.

R

uby’s mother Sonya Spencer reports: ‘She had a fantastic round on all four pieces, with upgrades to her vault and bar routines and also competing her new floor music for the first time.

‘In the Zinc level for her age category, she performed incredibly well under the watchful encouragement of her COPGC teammates and her coach Jamie. She demonstrated her maturity and professionalism as a competitor, supporting all fellow gymnasts during their routines.’

In preparation for this competition, Ruby worked hard on her power, form and flexibility, with the aim of minimising the judges’ deductions, maintaining her start values and representing the City of Preston Gymnastics Club to a high polished standard. Her hard work and resilience brought some fantastic results, medals and trophies home.

She achieved gold medals in Beam, Floor and Vault, a Bars award and a thoroughly deserved overall Gold, which earns her the title of Milano Champion.

Ruby is now looking forward to more training and competing this Autumn in the North West and English Championships, with more competitions in 2024, some of which she hopes will be internationals.

Mrs Spencer said: ‘Thank you to everyone for supporting and helping her to develop and to School for sharing her achievements.’ www.lancmag.com

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 207

Gallery stages ‘unbelievable’ exhibition

One of the AI images created for the new exhibition at King Street Arts

A

new exhibition in Lancaster focusing on Artificial Intelligence will ask – is seeing really believing?

An Exploration of AI Art runs on Fridays and Saturdays from October 13-November 4 at King Street Arts.

It is the result of an investigation into how AI could affect artists and image makers, and follows a Salon 20 event in Lancaster on the subject held this summer. Salon 20 is run by local artists James Mackie and Neil Wilson and brings together creative people from across the district to discuss a variety of artistic subjects.

“AI is an issue of the moment and artists need to familiarise themselves with it, as does everyone,” said James. “ We wanted to explore it as carefully as we could and the results were mindblowing and quite disturbing for some of the people attending the Salon.”

Over three months, James and Neil worked with graphic artist and digital technologist, Graham Baines, to investigate

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the image-making capabilities of Artificial Intelligence.

The thirty images produced will be on show at the King Street gallery and include one of Arnold Schwarzenegger in a pink tutu – or is he?

James said: “Graham has created an amazing array of unique, compelling images that raise huge questions about ‘what is true?’ and ‘what is human?’”

During the run of the exhibition, James and Graham will host a free Question & Answer session on October 21 at 2.45pm. Spaces are limited so must be booked in advance by emailing info@kingstreetstudios.art

For more information, ring 07743238663 or visit www.kingstreetstudios.art

www.lancmag.com

Girls Fundraise for Wipe Your Tears Year 11 pupils in the Girls’ Division of Bolton School have raised £212 for the charity Wipe Your Tears.

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F

orm groups created themed hampers with each class bringing in items of a particular colour for their hamper. The girls then sold entry forms for a prize draw to pupils and staff in the school and entrants had to correctly answer a question about the most popular colour amongst Girls’ Division teaching staff. Six winners were drawn during an assembly, with each winner taking away a different coloured hamper.

Wipe Your Tears children’s charity was started in 2004 in the North-West of England. It is committed to assisting in the care and financial support of seriously and terminally ill children and their loved ones. They also offer support to children who are victims of domestic violence. Through fundraising and events, they aim to brighten the lives of these children and offer support to their families during difficult times.

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 209 LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 000

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