The Lancashire & North West Magazine | January 2022

January 2022

www.lancmag.com

£2.45

THE POSITIVE CHANGE COACH Freedom Confidence Clarity

Veganuary Try Vegan This January

ESP Bathroom Retailer of the Year 2021

BREAK FROM THE DIET CYCLE With Anti-Diet Empowerment Coach, Margaret

The Whitebirk Sink Company

A Party Like No Other at Tweedies Bar & Lodge

ANNA BAKER SKIN CLINIC Specialising in Safe and Clinically Proven, Cutting-Edge Skin Treatments

Luxury Sinks Handmade in the Heart of Lancashire

LAKELAND Visit the Windermere Store This Christmas

WITH LOVE from Laurus Homes

Winter Adventure For All The Family

As the dark nights draw in, there is plenty of adventure afoot at Yellison Farm Barns on the Broughton Hall Estate Skipton.

Get the whole family involved in our new Experience sessions. If you are looking for a gift or some fun for yourself, adventure is just round the next bend.

Land Rover Young Off Roader 11- 17 Years Land Rover 1 Hour, Half Day and Full Day Adventures Land Rover Young Off Roader 11- 17 years Family Drive Challenge Land Rover Heritage Drive

For further information please call 01756 611 060 or email info@lre3.co.uk For 10% off Gift Vouchers quote: LREXMAS Land Rover Experience North Yorkshire Yellison Farm Barns | Broughton Hall Estate | Skipton | North Yorkshire | BD23 3HS | Tel 01756 611 060 Yorkshire.landroverexperience.co.uk

CONTENTS...

48

104

120

Clitheroe

Oldham

Warrington

Features

16 112

74 182

42

88 www.lancmag.com

11

WE ARE LAURUS HOMES

16

ESP - Bathroom Retailer of the Year 2021

24

How to KONKR the World

126 Lakeland

26

Luxury Sinks Handmade in the Heart of Lancashire

130 Brambles Wildlife Rescue

30

Redrow Shines Spotlight on Youth Theatre

32

Heart Research UK Healthy Heart Tip - Insulin and our Hearts

142 Raising Awareness of Traumatic Brain Injury

38

Meet The New Team at Redrow’s Oak Leigh Gardens

42

E&M Property Solutions

46

Astronaut’s View of The Earth at Pennington

50

Tannenbaum Trauma

52

Ernest Mangnall – A Unique Football Manager

60

Lakeland Book of the Year - Hungry for Success

62

10 Notable North-West Theatres

66

Two Great Nations Separated By a Common Language

70

Hope Menswear Christmas Gift Guide...

74

Anna Baker Skin Clinic

78

Girls To Learn Positive Habits For Life

80

A Little Gem in Chorley

81

Creativity and wellbeing? They’re the same thing!

82

Thirteen Furniture Co

84

Shine on Digital

88

NATURALLY EMPOWERED HEALTH Transformational Coaching

96

Sew Confident

98

Worthington Coaching

110 Switch Your Business Onto Electric With Bolton Kia 112 Tweedies Bar & Lodge

138 The Positive Change Coach

146 STONYHURST PUPILS TACKLE CLIMATE CHANGE 152 How To Become a Master at Talking to Strangers 162 KT Boutique 164 WORLD’S FIRST VINTAGE-INSPIRED SEWING BOX LAUNCHED 166 Engaged at Christmas? How Exciting!

Now what?

168 NOW things are easy 172 Illuminate a new holiday Theatre Arts Project by Blackpool Grand Theatre 177 Enterprise Vision Awards - Fylde Coast Finalists and Winners 182 NELLY LOVES Collection 184 ENGINEERING FUTURE MASTERPIECES 190 South Pennines Launches Alternative National Park 192 VEGANUARY CHANGES PEOPLE’S LIVES 194 THREE CLASSIC BRITISH DISHES GET A LOW CARBON MAKEOVER 196 Del Monte Recipes 198 Nature’s On The Phone With New Brockholes App 200 Woodland Trust to Establish New 70acre Woods for The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee

100 New Year Ready - Healthy Mind, Body AND Finances?

202 Luxury Homes Go On Sale at Redrow’s Sycamore Manor

102 Freckle Boutique

206 Totally Local Lancaster

106 Freemasons Sign Up to Armed Forces Covenant

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE

3

...CONTENTS

Regulars

January 2022 • Volume 45 Number 1

188

122

Aiming Higher

124

Balance Counselling and Coaching Ltd

56

Books - David Hatton

58

Books - Mark Jones

92

Catherine Dean Coaching

174

Colour Me Beautiful

148

Deborah Hatswell

178

Denise Mullen

36

HayMax

150

Karla McCulloch

204

Laura Pearson

40

Life of Di

180

Mama Shars Caribbean Food

154

Positive Change Coach

188

Talk of the Town Boutique

72

Tenet & You

170

UFO

169

Zodiac Predictions by Manish

174

204

180

122

150

January 2022

www.lancmag.com

£2.45

Managing Director: Natalie Christopher natalie@lancashiremagazine.co.uk Editorial: 01253 336580 editorial@lancashiremagazine.co.uk Design Manager: Tanjé Beach

THE POSITIVE CHANGE COACH Freedom Confidence Clarity

Veganuary Try Vegan This January

ESP Bathroom Retailer of the Year 2021

BREAK FROM THE DIET CYCLE With Anti-Diet Empowerment Coach, Margaret

The Whitebirk Sink Company

A Party Like No Other at Tweedies Bar & Lodge

ANNA BAKER SKIN CLINIC Specialising in Safe and Clinically Proven, Cutting-Edge Skin Treatments

Luxury Sinks Handmade in the Heart of Lancashire

LAKELAND Visit the Windermere Store This Christmas

WITH LOVE from Laurus Homes

COVER: The Positive Change Coach

4

Sales Enquiries: 07918 685673 Accounts: 01253 336588 General Enquiries/Subscriptions: Sharon Henry • 01253 336588 accounts@lancashiremagazine.co.uk The Lancashire & North West Magazine Ltd, Seasiders Way, Blackpool, Lancashire FY1 6NZ

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE

36

Writers: Aiming Higher

Kath Taylor

Catherine Dean

Laura Pearson

Cumbria Tourism

Manish Kumar Arora

Deborah Hatswell

Mandy Crosley

Denise Mullen

Margaret Brecknell

Diane Wade

Max Wiseberg

Emily Walker

Megha Seth

Harold Cunliffe

Norman Harris

Janet Broughton

Paul Cusimano

Jason Gleaves

Peter Pearson

Joel Newman

Sarah Harris

Karla McCulloch

Sharmen Frith-Hemmings

Kate Gostick

Tina Penswick

UK Only Subscription Rate: 1 year £25 – saving of £4.40 2 years £48 – saving of £10 3 years £73 – saving of £15 5 years £115 – saving of £32

F @lancmag I @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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WE ARE LAURUS HOMES We’re the ones who will make your home-owning dreams become a reality.

W

e do things differently. We create neighbourhoods and communities. We build homes, not houses. We believe in creating property properly, and we have buying options that will enable first-time buyers to get on the property ladder. We’re Laurus Homes, where your dreams can grow.

Creating communities Our profit-for-purpose communityfocused approach to every project means we make positive differences in people’s lives and act as a catalyst for regeneration. We use our resources to lend a helping hand through affordable housing and community projects.

Our NW Foundation team help 8

identify and build relationships in the communities around our developments. This year, we’ve donated laptops to the local school near Vision, our development in Skelmersdale and helped create a sensory garden at our local community centre near D’Urton Grange, our coming soon development in Preston.

By building homes that all kinds of people love to live in, we can help create and change communities for the better.

Developing the future North West Our journey began in Trafford, Greater Manchester, but our ambition is to further expand across the North West.

Our commitment is to build new, high-quality homes and communities across Lancashire and Cheshire, giving you the choice of a quality home in the area that you desire.

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE

Sharing the future Property prices in the North West have grown more than 15% than anywhere else in the country, and property experts Savills forecast the region will continue to see the country’s fastest price growth at 29% over the next five years.

Now is the time to start your future with Laurus Homes.

We make it easier than most to buy your home, offering a range of buying options, including a traditional outright sale, where you put down a deposit and pay the mortgage to your lender.

We know saving for that deposit is hard, and the challenges we’ve all been through over the past year has made it harder, so we offer another option where you could lower the deposit on your dream home. www.lancmag.com

Shared ownership is a governmentbacked home-ownership mortgage scheme available to first-time buyers.

Shared Ownership allows you to buy between 25% and 75% of your home, meaning your deposit, usually between 5% and 10%, could be lower. You then secure and pay for the mortgage on your share of the home and pay a subsidised monthly rent on the remaining share to Laurus.

You have the option to increase your share amount at any time during the life of the loan, known as stair-casing.

You can eventually buy the remaining share of the property up to the point of 100% ownership through this process, as and when you can afford to do so. At this point, your mortgage repayments will cover the complete value of the property, and you’ll no longer have to pay rent.

Not everyone will qualify for the Shared Ownership scheme, and there are eligibility criteria that you must meet, such as your household income doesn’t exceed £80,000 per annum.

You must have at least a 5% deposit of the share value of the home.

Remember, this will be lower than an outright home purchase as you’re buying a share of the property.

As with all financial investments of this size and scale, you must pass a financial assessment, proving financial capability to buy the minimum share value and your monthly payments on your new home.

Now that you have all the essential financial information, you can turn your thoughts to what your dream first time home should look like.

There are several advantages of buying a new build home that an older property simply doesn’t offer.

Not only can new build homes offer a variety of ways to buy, but they are also designed for modern-day lifestyles.

The Laurus design principles Building homes is much more than just bricks and mortar.

The design of our homes encapsulates a sense of freedom and space. Modern lifestyles are more sophisticated, and first-time buyers are looking for more than just a beautiful looking home. www.lancmag.com

Traditional houses were built around the need to simply provide accommodation. We work with leading architects and builders to design our homes around you.

From cooking in the kitchen, relaxing in the tub after a long day’s work or watching tv on a comfy sofa during the weekend, all items in a Laurus home are specifically chosen to suit the modern way of living.

And whether you prefer light and airy or moody and cosy, the Laurus design principles are applied across all our homes. These principles are our commitment to building homes that meet all your needs.

More space Our homes are designed around the government’s NDSS - Nationally Described Space Standards. This means that our homes generally have more floor space. You can see this in our show homes, where we don’t scale down furniture to make the room feel bigger. You can then get more of a sense of how your furniture will fit in.

in each property. Features such as some oversized windows, French and bi-fold doors allow more light into your new home. And break down the barrier between your home and nature with most kitchen and dining rooms leading onto the garden. More natural light also means less time for indoor lighting, saving you money and a little bit of the environment.

Traditional materials, contemporary form We always focus on what materials we use at all our developments. We consider the latest technology and designs to give the customer a quality and technology advanced home. One of these advancements has been brick detailing. This has become a big trend over recent years. Projecting bricks helps create unique building façades, which feeds directly into Laurus’s ethos of designing bespoke homes without the repetition often created by volume house-builders.

Modern lifestyles

More floor space will also mean more storage space. Today’s modern living means that even first-time buyers will have more stuff to store. Across the Laurus range of developments, there is storage to meet first-time buyers needs, resulting in more flexible living arrangements.

We have a greater understanding of modern lifestyles and how our customers use their homes. The homes we design respond to this by creating open plan living, with kitchen, dining and family rooms, where practical, to act as the hub of the home. We have started to incorporate a master suite consisting of a master bedroom, space for walk-in wardrobes and en-suite.

More natural light

Beautifully designed kitchens

Not only does more natural light give you a boost of vitamin D, but it also helps the environment. Our homes are designed to maximise the light

We care about the homes we design.

This is why our homes have the right kitchen specification and layout with integrated appliances from the day

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE

9

provide to help make life a little easier, whether this is more storage, a home office or bringing the outdoors in.

When finding inspiration for our home interiors, we’re often influenced by many aspects of life, from the natural world to social media. We allow the feel of an inspiration to dictate the interiors we create. If a beautiful calming lake has inspired our interior designers, we create something calm and placid, choosing colours that replicate that and adding natural materials to tie the room together.

Our homes often tell us a lot about what the design should be. If the home is open plan, we create a light and airy interior, combining lots of natural colours and textures. If the home is naturally dark, we’ll use this as its strongest asset and choose dark cosy colours to create a moody and comforting home.

No matter what our inspiration is, all our homes are places of experience. By creating homes with you in mind, every space allows for playfulness, fun and for families to come together and enjoy each other’s company.

Affordable design in the North West Many of the specifications you see in a Laurus home are optional extras with other house-builders.

you move in. We future-proof our kitchens by designing them so they can grow with your family, and integrated appliances such as your fridge and freezer are positioned with this in mind. All our homes include the signature specification as standard, which has a carefully selected range of stylish Symphony kitchens..

Bringing a Laurus home to life At Laurus, we bring traditional materials together with contemporary design.

While we recognise it’s important to understand trends and what they tell us about how an architectural space should be used to make it aesthetic, functional, and suitable for everyday life, we don’t rely on them when creating our homes.

This is because trends are fleeting. We want our homes to stand the test of time and grow with you.

We continually work to understand how people and families use their homes and what a Laurus home can 10

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE

With a Laurus home, not only do you get a contemporary, high-quality home, but you gain a space to grow your family, ambitions, and dreams. A space to that is close enough for the commute but far enough to escape back to the ones you love. A space to live your best new life, in your new home, that finally has your personality, surrounded by a community that will become friends. A space to live, work and finally be you.

Laurus and the North West Having the second-most affordable housing market coupled with employees being the second-highest earners of any region outside of Southern England, the North West is an attractive and affordable place to live.

And with property experts predicting the region will continue to see the country’s fastest price growth over the next five years, now is one of the best times to move.

At Laurus Homes, we already have launched two exciting developments in Lancashire in 2021, and we have one more to come in 2022.

Whalley Manor is our latest development. Set to welcome its first homeowners in spring next year, we’re building 188 detached and semi-detached 2, 3, 4 and 5-bedroom www.lancmag.com

homes and bungalows. These stunning new homes are set in a prime location at the foot of the Pendle Hill with the Ribble Valley in Lancashire, an area well known for its outstanding natural beauty and scenic walks.

Hollins Green is our development in the highly desirable village of Forton, close to the traditional English market town of Garstang. Situated in a peaceful location, a home at Hollins Green offers stunning views of the countryside.

The new development will create 60 detached and semidetached 2, 3 and 4-bedroom homes, with show-homes open for appointments now and the first homeowners already moved into their Laurus Homes.

D’Urton Grange is located on the fringes of Preston in the sought-after suburb of Fulwood. With a mix of 2, 3 and 4-bedroom homes, each house has been thoughtfully designed, with spacious open plan living areas, modern built-in kitchens, off-street parking, and plenty of outside space. This affluent, leafy part of Fulwood enjoys the best of both worlds, situated in a vibrant and growing rural area that’s just a stone’s throw from the city of Preston.

Connecting you to the North West and beyond All three sites offer fantastic connectivity, with the West Coast Mainline railway meaning a visit to the capital is only two to three hours away. The M62 and Trans-Pennine Express rail services connect Liverpool and Manchester with Yorkshire and the North East.

Manchester Airport – a short journey from all three sites - is the UK’s third-largest airport and the biggest outside of the South East, with more than 70 airlines offering direct flights to over 210 destinations worldwide.

Zac Worthington, Head of Sales, says: “We’re extremely proud to be adding to our ambitious growth across the North West with our three Lancashire developments, and to be helping to shape the delivery of quality homes in the region. At Laurus, our ethos is a home for everyone, and these new developments are helping us provide more housing options for first-time buyers who originally may have been priced out of the area.”

At Laurus Homes, we have taken care of all your needs as a first-time buyer. A company that cares and creates communities around the North West. Buying options to meet most budgets. Design principles that add value and complement modern, sophisticated lifestyles. And locations that are close to everything and in the most vibrant housing market outside of Southern England. www.lancmag.com

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 11

Whalley Manor is a selection of 2, 3, 4 and 5 bed stunning new build homes set in a prime location at the foot of the Ribble Valley in Lancashire, an area well known for its outstanding natural beauty and scenic walks.

Register your interest to view this stunning new development in arguably one of the North West’s prettiest countryside spots in the heart of Whalley, close to the Ribble Valley.

LaurusHomes LaurusHomes LaurusHomes

T H E CA M D E N PR I C E S F R O M £ 24 4 , 9 9 5 • Spacious open plan kitchen/living area with access to a separate utility room.

• Direct access to the rear turfed garden brings the outdoors in.

• Two large double bedrooms and a modern family bathroom.

T H E H E ATO N PR I C E S F R O M £ 2 9 9, 9 9 5 • Stylish kitchen/dining area with access to a separate utility and cloakroom.

• Master bedroom with an en-suite • Two further well-proportioned bedrooms and a family bathroom.

THE HOLBORN PR I C E S F R O M £ 3 4 5 , 9 9 5 • Stylish living area and an open plan kitchen/ dining area with French doors to the rear garden.

• On the first floor, the master bedroom includes an en-suite.

• Two further two well-proportioned bedrooms and a family bathroom complete the first floor.

THE CHELSEA PR I C E S F R O M £5 2 5 , 9 9 5 • Open plan kitchen/diner with a utility, cloakroom and access to the back garden through stunning bi-fold doors • Upstairs, the master suite includes a dressing room and an en-suite.

• Three further three well-proportioned bedrooms and a family bathroom complete this modern home.

Book your appointment today: Phone: 0161 968 0200 Email: whalleymanor@laurushomes.co.uk Visit: laurushomes.co.uk

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IN THIS ISSUE...

W

e start this month with Veganuary, a subject close to our hearts, including some delicious recipes, with some dishes getting a low carbon makeover!

Our featured towns this month are the ancient market town of Clitheroe, Oldham with its picturesque postcard views and Warrington with its impeccable combination of history, art, nature, culture and, of course, shopping!

With all the buzz about going electric, Bolton Kia shows us what making the switch is all about for us and our businesses. We quizzed James from Edward James Furniture who gave us an insight into what the company is all about, why he set it up and his core values. Tenet&You helps us to prioritise our financial wellbeing so that we will be prepared for life’s 14

unexpected events. The Whitebirk Sink Company, specialising in handcrafting unique Belfast sinks, allows customers to choose from a vast library of sink designs, textures and shades. The Positive Change Coach helps us to feel in charge of our lives and also to live our best lives! We have a plethora of Unique Ladies showcasing their talents and businesses.

Grab your tweed slippers and let the outside world pause while you sip on your first G&T and soak up the breathtaking sights of the Lake District at Tweedies Bar & Lodge.

Laurus Homes make our homeowning dreams become a reality. In the last 30 years ESP Bathrooms has been revolutionary in introducing new advancements in interior design to Lancashire and Lakeland have some sweet recipes for the festive

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE

season including festive Gonk cookies, chocolate chip cookies and hot chocolate bombes.

Denise Mullen has a brief stint as a flasher, Sarah Harris from Colour Me Beautiful helps us to add interest to some of our Christmas and New Year outfits without breaking the bank, Catherine Dean Coaching has the key to improving our health, we hear about the exciting new online female clothing boutique called Talk of the town, Deborah Hatswell has some frighteningly good stories to tell, Laura Pearson helps us to declutter our space, mind and life and Aiming Higher have an exciting new project!

And of course, as always, we have features on homes, health, delicious recipes, fascinating history, and a bit of wildlife and more - all in our January issue. www.lancmag.com

2021

RETAIL & DESIGN

BATHROO M SHOWROOM OF

THE YEAR 2021

BATHROOMS | TILES | KITCHENS | TABLEWARE

SHOWROOMS AT: Thorn Buildings, Kent Street, Preston, Lancashire PR1 1PE Queens Retail Park, Queen Street, Preston, PR1 4HZ Tel: 01772 200400 info@espbathrooms.co.uk www.espbathrooms.co.uk

01

7

YEARS 1987-2

ESP - Bathroom Retailer of the Year 2021

By Joel Newman and Emily Walker

In the last 30 years ESP has been revolutionary in introducing new advancements in interior design to Lancashire.

16

T

he founder of ESP, Ahmed Bhayat began business as a plumbers merchant and located a considerable gap in the market. It became apparent to him that there was a notable lack of

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE

quality sanitary bathrooms currently available; he decided to research this further, speaking to customers to determine what they were looking for and ultimately concluded that a stronger presence of the prestigious www.lancmag.com

brands that could be located throughout Britain and Germany was required. With this determined, deals were secured with the leading manufacturers in those areas such as Villeroy & Boch and Heritage, their first showroom opened on Kent Street in Preston. At the time the showroom only exhibited the sanitary ware they had available but

including: Axor, Hansgrohe, Oasis, DornBracht, Fiora and Crosswater to name just a few. Then in 2017 the company made the decision to expand and grow their company, they were looking for a new direction and fresh ideas, with that in mind they appointed their new Managing Director, Luckman Ismail who joined the company with over 15 years of experience in business development, retail development and the bathroom and tile industry, this experience also included working abroad with international companies, supplying ESP with new possibilities. This enabled them to start supplying a wider range of products from throughout Europe and other continents also. This initiative was marketed as the New Generation of ESP. Once the brands were secured ESP then invested a lot of money in order to bring the showroom in line with current trends, by the time they had finished it was comparable to some of the most high end showrooms in Chelsea. The main aim with the transformation was to entice the domestic customer, interior designers, architects and open doors to commercial projects. Another initiative at this time was to grow the business further by introducing new brands that supplied tiles and kitchens so that they could begin to streamline the industry. In pursuit of this they managed to secure a deal with one of the leading German kitchen manufacturers, Nolte. Nolte

has been voted for the third time in succession: Germany’s most popular kitchen brand. This was the results of a customer survey by the German Institute for service quality (DISQ).

The interviewed customers rated 14 kitchen manufacturers and gave Nolte the best results for product, quality, design, value for money, range and brand.

In their quest to supply the best available in the business, ESP research the market place, travel to international destinations, visit exhibitions and they work tirelessly to understand the market trend with the objective of bringing the latest most practical products to their showrooms for the people of Lancashire and surrounding areas to benefit from the new products before any other retailers have introduced the innovative designs. In doing this they have also been able to work with some outstanding architects on projects such as interior designs, secured commercial products including city apartments, executive house developments, highly luxurious top end houses, places of worship and hospitality including hotels.

Apparent from all their designs, the real objective for ESP as a company is to give the best value for money for the user without compromising the practicality behind the products, resulting in the incredible success ESP has seen to date.

Incorporated with in ESP is a team of 10 incredible designers, headed by

the company soon grew. In no time at all their initial showroom had increased to a 20,000 square feet retail space which they still have today. With this increase in space they offered further exclusive brands www.lancmag.com

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 17

their Chief Designer, Junaid Bhayat who has successfully completed 25 years in the industry and also sits on the board for certain manufacturers which is a product development board. They are not just designers, they take a brief from the client, will run through the journey of their day, in regards to the products that are required and the ideal placement of them, their designers understand practicality and budget and then provide a solution. These solutions will be presented via 3D renders together with a full presentation of how the end result will appear and the benefits it will supply to the customer, a truly remarkable service.

In 2018 ESP were given the opportunity to expand further by building a brand new showroom in a prime location in the city of Preston, less than 2 miles away from the current showroom. The board of directors at ESP decided that this showroom will be the flagship showroom for ESP and that it would establish the image for the industry across the country.

There would be no compromise in regards to the budget and it was

18

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www.lancmag.com

determined that the presentation and quantity of products on display was paramount. The deal was secured for the new showroom and the work commenced with the new project being managed by their Managing Director Luckman Ismail.

The main body of work took place over a damp and wet winter, but with hard work and perseverance from the whole team the showroom was completed in February 2019.

The internal designs were then created by their Chief Designer Junaid Bhayat, who jointly managed the design with the guidance of their chairman and founder who collectively established what would be an award winning showroom.

From the showrooms opening in November 2019 the company had a limited time to trade due to the adverse effect of the COVID 19 pandemic which sadly had a bad effect on a lot of families around the world. The hearts of everyone at ESP goes out to those around the world who lost loved ones to the pandemic but it looks like we’re over the worst of it and they pray we never see something like this again.

www.lancmag.com

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 19

and kitchen manufacturers. The event ran seamlessly and was very well presented, a complete success especially considering it was the first of its kind since the pandemic.

Despite the night being enjoyable the team of 9 representatives of ESP whose attendance was sponsored

by Merlyn Showers found that it was nerve-racking to sit through the awards and when their category came, all described having butterflies in their stomachs. When the announcement was made it was a dramatic moment, there was a long and painful silence before a roar erupted from the table as their name was called and their entire table went crazy. As an independent family run business, they were the first company of its kind from Lancashire to ever be nominated for this award and win.

The judges described the award winning showroom saying “ESP really is an amazing bathroom showroom in so many ways. The frontage and position are excellent and are key to their marketing. The layout and scale of the displays are fantastic and the number of working displays is unparalleled. The Showroom is impeccably finished to incredible detail and the staff were extremely knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Their understanding of their customers’ needs is excellent at every stage of the journey and their empathy for budgets is both clear and subtle. A truly worthy winner in every sense and a genuine flagship for our industry.”

When the showroom reopened ESP had secured more niche brands which had not previously been available in the North West and which had only been available in the South such as: AntonioLupi, Casabath , Sicis, Diesel Living and Orvi to name only a few. It was at this time that the ESP flagship showroom was awarded Bathroom Retailer of the Year 2021 by KBB Review, an industry recognised accolade. The nominations were UK wide and after being short20

listed it was announced they were finalists. This news was overwhelming for the company as they received their invite to the KBB review awards, a prestigious ceremony that was to be hosted in the beautifully historic monument that is Liverpool Cathedral.

The evening of the awards was presented by actor, author, comedian and presenter, Joel Dommett. It was a grand event attended by the most established of people across the country including leading bathroom

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE

As proud Preston people they were thrilled to gain this award and acknowledgement for their home where ESP had established and developed throughout the years but also to gain the achievement for all of Lancashire and fly the Red Rose flag. It was a magical night, receiving the award was uplifting, to be announced Leading Retailer for the industry not only put ESP but also Preston on the map. It also showed that the brands they have in their supply chain are accepted and raised their profile, giving them the full acknowledgement they deserve. The after-party was the most perfect celebration. Quooker were fabulous hosts and provided the ideal opportunity for everyone to let their hair down after all their hard work securing the award, with Martin www.lancmag.com

Kemp as the DJ the dance floor was on fire- a fantastic evening that will always be remembered.

Their award winning showroom is one of a kind displaying working showers, working steam room, working whirlpool baths, working kitchens, working shower heads and features the largest independent single manufacturer water working display exhibiting the 5 metre area of Axor Hansgrohe water feature.

Further unique qualities include a fully accessible toilet facility

by Keuco, allowing full use of the products they sell with in the showroom itself. It is their firm belief nobody should have to compromise in their lifestyle to accommodate to factors beyond their control such as disability, which is why they wanted to provide those people with the best available. They are the only retailer in Preston that has TOTO working toilet displays additionally these are the most revolutionary of designs including toilets with washing, drying, heating and memory capacity features. ESP describe their showroom by saying that “At our Queens Showroom, we feel we are unique in many ways; from the service we offer to our breath-taking displays.

The purpose-built space is modern and sleek and features a stunning glass exterior that shows of our beautiful displays from the outside.

We’ve used vibrant lighting to create a gallery-inspired interior.”

It is the objective of ESP to create an atmosphere in the showroom that will make anybody that enters feel at home, providing them the opportunity to feel the practicalities of the new designs and features in their day to day life and inside their home. Their designers are very creative meaning that your experience in the showroom and the company will be very special, customers will often get back to the car and say ‘wow’ the extensive work of ESP is never unappreciated and is all encased within their breath taking designs. Their styles and designs are so show-stopping that people have found that posting about them has resulted in a substantial increase in views and likes on their social media, but for ESP it is all about the customer and www.lancmag.com

how they can best help them.

ESP are again planning the next step forward, in no way did their excitement and enthusiasm end with the award, it has merely encouraged and motivated them to consistently remain the best in the business. It is not being the largest showroom in the country that is important to them, it is being the best in the industry that matters.

ESP wish to thank their incredible team for all their hard work, their customers for their support and belief in them and their suppliers for working so hard and supporting them in all their accomplishments thus far. The journey has just begun.

For more information, you can visit their website at:

espbathrooms.co.uk Or to take a look at the products first-hand, take a trip to one of their showrooms:

Esp Bathrooms Unit 2 Queen Street Preston PR1 1PE Thorn Buildings Kent Street Preston PR1 1PE

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 21

RELIABILITY &

NO PRESSURE · NO DEADLINES · NO UNREALISTIC DISCOUNTS

M ROSSENDALE INTERIORS 352-358 Newchurch Road, Stacksteads, Bacup OL13 0LD | N 01706 252122 M OSWALDTWISTLE MILLS Colliers Street, Oswaldtwistle BB5 3DE | N 01254 304068 M KITCHEN HOUSE Brogden/Market Street, Ulverston LA12 7AH | N 01229 581828

& 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

www.rossendaleinteriors.com

How to

the World

By Joel Newman

Konkr is a brand-new business platform catered to Personal Trainers, looking to grow in both a business sense and a personal sense.

T

he main ethos at the heart of Konkr is client management, marketing and offering an accessible medium in which personal trainers can learn how to run a successful business.

Having had the pleasure of speaking to the co-founder of Konkr, Neil Henshaw, the passion for Konkr and personal training became clear.

Mr Henshaw’s background as a gym operator in addition to the lockdown in March of 2020, has allowed him to reflect on issues within the industry, a major one that he identified was that personal trailers tended to leave after a short period of time. This high attrition led to conversations about finding the route of this problem and deciding how they will help personal trainers.

From there, Mr Henshaw, assembled a focus group of ten personal trainers who were all at different stages of their career.

This not only allowed the group to discuss their day to day challenges but also explore the diversity between experienced personal trailers and newly graduated personal trainers.

24

The findings of this group did not lie with the delivery and execution of fitness products or health advice but in fact with the business side of the profession.

Moreover, the group also concluded that a solution for the issues already existed albeit aspects of this solution could be found in different places.

For instance, when a personal trainer qualifies, in order to find the right way of moving forward, they need to have certain elements in place such as setting up a business bank account, finding insurance, finding an accountant and more business-related areas. However, the issue arises when considering that the majority of personal trainers are freelance and so at this stage it is often that their priorities are finding their first client, and the gym where they will be based.

This is where Konkr aims to step in and offer guidance and support for personal trainers, allowing both sides of the job to be managed correctly.

In order to achieve this, there are elements that Konkr aims to focus on.

These consist of: business services which encompasses business banking, HMRC registration, insurance, managing card transactions, bookkeeping and accounting whilst on the gym floor.

Client Management which hones in on the role of nurturing and converting

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE

a potential lead into paying customers.

Marketing and Sales which involves the setting up of various social media platforms and how to best utilise them to promote the business. This is a particularly important sector of Konkr because after the banking and the insurance is sorted, it is unlikely that much more action will be needed in the immediate future.

Therefore, the Marketing and Sale aspect is vital as it also includes managing clients on a daily basis and forging a community within the personal training profession where Konkr can go the extra mile in supporting continued education and sourcing weekly guest speakers who can offer mentoring for the daily life of a personal trainer, including how to write nutrition plans and insurance against loss on income in the case of an injury plus many more topics.

The Konkr platform will offer their subscribers discounts across a range of partners that will include education, apparel, nutrition and equipment.

A monthly subscription provides full public liability insurance cover plus all the tools and support you need to build and run a successful and profitable business.

The Konkr Website is now live and expects to start conducting business soon - gokonkr.com

www.lancmag.com

Pendleton, £594

Mellor, £249

Calder Pink, £429

Calder Blue, £429

Barrow Mottle Blue, £690

Luxury Sinks Handmade in the Heart of Lancashire Ribble House, Challenge Way, Whitebirk, Blackburn, Lancashire, BB1 5RB

01254 460321 www.whitebirksink.co info@whitebirksink.co

Every handmade sink is a masterpiece of traditional manufacturing created by our very own skilled artisans, who draw upon years of specialist experience to create truly iconic heritage and contemporary designs.

The Whitebirk Sink Company specialises in handcrafting unique Belfast sinks, utilising the technical expertise of sister company Darwen Terracotta, allows customers to choose from a vast library of sink designs, textures and shades.

When one of the UK's oldest and most highly respected terracotta companies closed its architectural division to concentrate on their fireclay sink business, the opportunity arose for former employees to set up a new business and re-employ the very skilled craftspeople.

“It was really important that we could employ many of the team we have worked with for so many years. Apart from the friendships involved, the product is so specialised that we could not see the loss of these skills that Darwen has been famous for since the end of the 19th century.

The industry, including Architects and Contractors, has been so very supportive, that it has been heartwarming and keeps alive the passion required to produce this high-quality product.”

— Jon Wilson, Darwen Terracotta Darwen Terracotta have an expert team that has many years of experience within the industry, having worked on both restoration and new build projects for some of the most prestigious buildings in the UK, Europe, North America, Canada and Australia. We have the specialist skills required to design, sculpt, match and produce terracotta and faience to the highest standard to restore any building.

terracotta blocks to the façades and tower, along with replacement Atlas figures and lion sculptures.

The Natural History Museum in which our sculptors have worked on both the external and internal facades. Harrods Department Store, which we have been working on continually for over twenty-six years, recreating the terracotta to the facades and roof areas.

This scheme includes over 1300 of our hand made ceramic units for the low-carbon energy centre. The centre is projected to save 3,100 tonnes of carbon emissions in its first five years of operation, the scheme will help Manchester achieve its ambition to be carbon-free by 2038.

As for the New Build sector of the business, because handmade terracotta and faience offer practically unlimited design flexibility for shape, size and colour, the only real limit is your imagination. The most recent job to be completed is the 'Wall of Energy', this building encompasses the new 40m tall 'Tower of Light', delivered by Manchester City Council and Vital Energi.

The wall will be partially transparent and will allow passersby a glimpse into the energy centre.

Harrods Department Store, London

Darwen’s work is featured on building such as the London Collessium, home of the English National Opera, this Frank Matcham designed, Grade II theatre required 4600 new

Tower of Light, Manchester

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www.lancmag.com

The skills that are required to manufacture first-class terracotta products sit side-by-side with crafting our luxury fireclay sinks. Our skilled craftsmen have been mastering the handmade manufacturing process for over 50 years. Over time, our minds wandered to further possibilities of what could potentially come from these remarkable sinks.

Technical raw materials and knowledge aid innovation and assist in the development of new sink glaze colours, textures and applications with results ranging from matt pinks and metallics to high gloss mottles.

We are able to create gloss levels, glaze colours and textures which are not normally associated with sanitary ware products. This is due to the ready availability of ceramic matte to high gloss glazes, pigments and oxides used in the production of terracotta and faience. However, the more challenging, extraordinary or mottled the finishes are may require the sourcing of additional raw materials, and therefore take a little while longer. We are lucky to have a technical department at our disposal with over 50 years' experience and 100 years worth of glaze recipes, but we are still developing and pushing the boundaries of colour technology to achieve our client's requirements today.

Every authentic sink in our Collections takes time to create, and the result is a true masterpiece of traditional manufacturing.

The nature of our handmade process creates tiny but distinctive variations between each sink, making every one of them truly unique.

Each handcrafted single sink in our traditional Heritage Collection is as practical as it is beautiful, and equally at home in traditional or contemporary kitchens. They are available in a range of understated styles, all guaranteed to provide a lifetime of service and pleasure.

Add a splash of colour with the beautifully designed sinks in our exclusive Colour Collection. They are available in various contemporary finishes, that put a modern twist on a classic traditional style, making them iconic focal points for any kitchen.

Complex glazes are used in the manufacturing process to create the stunning sinks in our Mottled Collection, producing distinctive patterns that give them a vibrant contemporary look – perfect for making a statement. www.lancmag.com

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 27

Take a look into our factory...

MODELLING AND MOULDING Each different design of sink is hand modelled in plaster, formed slightly oversize to allow for the natural clay shrinkage that occurs through the production process. From here we make the reverse plaster mould, which will be dried for up to two weeks in dedicated temperature-controlled rooms. This ensures optimum production performance and dimensional consistency.

CLAY CASTING We use virgin local clays, giving us an industry-leading level of control over dimensional accuracy and consistency. Our clay is cast into the preconditioned moulds, tightly packed to a controlled thickness and left to start the drying process. This method has been used for centuries and is tried and tested to offer the best performance specifications and strength.

HAND FINISHING After the sink has been turned out of the mould, we meticulously hand finish the surfaces with a variety of wooden and metal tools, along with leathers, all to give the required finish.

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www.lancmag.com

DRYING The sinks are allowed to dry naturally at room temperature for a few days. Then, they’re moved into our automated, humidity-controlled drying rooms, to fully remove any residual moisture.

GLAZE APPLICATION The glazing is done in two stages. First, the englobe (an undercoat) is applied, then they are given the final coat of glaze. In the case of our mottled finish, complex glazes are required to achieve this beautiful effect. This process takes a three-coat application. Now, they’re ready for the kiln.

FIRING The sinks are set on the kiln for a firing process that will take them over 36 hours, reaching temperatures of more than 1180 degrees Celsius. We obtain the beautiful finish by firing at varying temperatures during this time, before the sinks are allowed to cool naturally in the kiln.

www.lancmag.com

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 29

Redrow Shines Spotlight on Youth Theatre THE show will go on for a Chester-based youth theatre group thanks to Redrow playing a supporting role.

Above: Redrow’s Silvia Dixon visits Minerva Arts at Lache Youth Theatre, one of the beneficiaries of a £10,000 community fund linked to new homes being built at Kings Moat Garden Village

Minerva Arts successfully applied to the homebuilder’s Kings Moat Garden Village Community Fund for support for Lache Youth Theatre.

Artistic director Stephanie Meskell-Brocken explained: “When we launched Lache Youth Theatre there was a lack of opportunities for young people in the area to engage with the arts. We provide focused activity for children and young people in the evenings. The focus is on drama, but it also helps them develop their confidence, communication and leadership skills along with their teamworking and social skills.

“Originally we’d asked Redrow for funding towards venue hire, but post-Covid we used some of the grant towards adapting our sessions to be delivered online and to cover the cost of offline packs for the children to complete at home.”

Open to eight to 14-year-olds, Lache Youth Theatre usually meets for two hours a week during term-time. Sessions are 30

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held at St Mark’s Church, less than two miles from Kings Moat Garden Village, where Redrow is building new homes.

Redrow has gifted £10,000 to good causes in the area via a voluntary community fund linked to the development.

Area sales manager Caroline Thompson-Jones said: “Groups like Lache Youth Theatre play an important role in the community. They offer a chance for children and young people to make new friends, while also providing a creative outlet and helping them learn new skills. Who knows maybe in years to come some of those who attend the sessions will have a starring role in a major production. We certainly hope so.”

To find out more about the three and four-bedroom new homes taking centre stage at Kings Moat Garden Village, priced from £315,995, see www.redrow.co.uk/romangreen or www.redrow.co.uk/emperorpark www.lancmag.com

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.

Discover more about the new homes in Lancashire

Visit: redrow.co.uk/lancashire

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.

Heart Research UK Healthy Heart Tip

Insulin and our Hearts

Insulin is an important hormone that allows sugar to move from our blood, after digesting food, into our muscles and fat cells to be either burned or stored Diabetes, is the name we give to the disease related to problems with our insulin. Whilst some types of Diabetes are caused by factors out of our control, Type 2 Diabetes can usually be prevented in younger individuals by adopting a healthy lifestyle. What’s more, most of the lifestyle actions we can take to limit our diabetes risk will also help to improve our heart health!

Create Activity Opportunities Staying active is one of the most effective ways to maintain our weight and lower blood pressure. Consider how you can incorporate a minimum of one ‘activity opportunity’ every day, whether it’s walking the dog, cleaning your house, or dusting off your old bike. Remember to keep it fresh and do something you enjoy!

Know Your Numbers Eating excessive amounts of sugar over many years can be harmful to our health. Try and opt for foods with less than 5g of sugar per 100g most of the time, and limit high sugar foods such as fizzy drinks and sweets to less than twice per week.

To help keep your heart healthy, why not try out some of our Healthy Heart recipes from our website: https://heartresearch.org.uk/ heart-research-uk-recipes-2/

With this in mind, here are some tips for doing just that: Eat more Fibre Fibre can not only help to reduce cholesterol levels but also helps to slow down how quickly our blood sugar levels increase. Try and swap white pasta and bread for wholegrain options, eat more fruit and vegetables, and snack on unsalted nuts and seeds.

success! Remember to set a goal over a realistic timeframe; 0.5-2lb per week is sustainable.

Take the 5% Challenge Reducing our bodyweight by more than 5% is an effective way to positively manage our future health, however any weight loss is beneficial, so start small and build on your

Or have a look through our Healthy Heart cookbook filled with recipes from top chefs, celebrities and food bloggers: https://heartresearch.org.uk/ heart-research-uk-cookbook/

If you’d like to support Heart Research UK’s vital work into the prevention, treatment and cure of heart disease, please visit www.heartresearch.org.uk for inspiration on how you could help.

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www.lancmag.com

Thinking of a New Sofa for Christmas?

Edward James Furniture is a family run business located in Kendal, specialising in high quality British made furniture.

Our Lakeland range of sofas are crafted from the finest materials, and constructed for strength and durability. With all components extensively tested for your peace of mind.

Due to current circumstances and demand, please consider ordering your sofa as soon as possible to guarantee Christmas delivery.

Current lead time is 14 weeks from date of order.

Our full collection is available to view now at our Kendal showroom • Nationwide and FREE local delivery • FREE Aquaclean fabric upgrade available on all of our Lakeland Sofas • FREE set-up service - delivery to the room of your choice, with the removal of all packaging

www.edwardjamesfurniture.com

|

37 Highgate, Kendal LA9 4ED

|

01539 734439

Presenting:

Edward James Furniture Ltd

By Zara Harris

Discover the story behind Edward James Furniture in our interview with the founder, James as he gives us an insight into what the company is all about, why he set it up and his core values. Here’s what he had to say...

TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR COMPANY. We are a furniture shop in the centre of Kendal, selling high quality furniture for an affordable price. I started the business Edward James Furniture Ltd in 2012. This was after coming back from Australia in 2008 and trying to buy some decently priced, good quality furniture to no avail. This led me to opening up my own business to fulfil such a need.

The name was derived from the middle names of my two boys, Charlie Edward and Harry James.

WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT EDWARD JAMES FURNITURE? It’s a family run business located in Kendal, specialising in high quality British made furniture. Our Lakeland range of sofas are crafted from the finest materials. The furniture is constructed for strength and durability, with all components extensively tested for the customers peace 34

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE

of mind and all of the money goes back into Britain. I am proud to be British and our furniture is hand-crafted and tailored here in the UK. The furniture has a free upgrade of Aquaclean fabrics on all sofas, as opposed to most selling this as a feature! Aquaclean® technology is a revolutionary fabric treatment that allows you to clean stains using water only. This provides you with simple fabric maintenance in the minimum amount of time.

Aquaclean helps to remove the majority of household stains (wine, ink, sauce, fat, mud, chocolate, cream, etc) making life easier and giving you more time for the more important things. And it really does work.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE FURNITURE YOU SELL? (For example classic, neural etc..)

We have a variety of collections in all types of designs, in 100’s of quality fabrics and are all very comfortable, and will stay comfy! No cheap materials used whatsoever.

Even the cushions are made of quality materials with duck feather inners. The furniture combines traditional techniques with modern technology to ensure the highest quality construction and superior comfort.

WHAT AREAS DO YOU COVER? We have nationwide delivery and free local delivery. People come from all over the UK as they can’t buy the quality www.lancmag.com

near them. We do direct home delivery from the factory to the client and free local delivery is to: Kendal, Windermere, Ambleside, Kirby Lonsdale, Ingleton, Sedbergh, Kirby Stephen, Coniston, Hawkshead, Ulverston, Grange over Sand, Arnside, Carnforth and Milnthorpe.

HOW DO YOU GO THE EXTRA MILE FOR YOUR CUSTOMERS? We don’t pressurise our customers, we are there for the customer’s needs. I take the pressure off of the customers by listening to their needs and making sure their purchase is the right choice. Old fashioned quality with old fashioned service. We offer a free set-up service with delivery to the room of your choice, and the removal of all packaging.

WHAT PRICE ARE YOUR PRODUCTS? I am proud that the furniture isn’t necessarily the cheapest, but by paying that little more, you’ll get furniture that will last over 15 years! I don’t want to sell a person a cheap sofa that only lasts 4 years. I know that in buying the right sofa, the best quality will please customers enough that they will then recommend us to their friends and family, and that’s better than a repeat purchase.

WHAT ARE YOUR BEST SELLING PRODUCTS/ SIGNATURE STYLE? We have seven best sellers, with a further five new models being introduced after Christmas, so stay tuned!

WHAT TRENDS HAVE YOU NOTICED? Blues are very popular right now, with rusty orange and khaki following closely.

HOW DID THE BUSINESS ADAPT DURING THE PANDEMIC? My business did OK during the pandemic as we already had orders to fulfil when the Kendal shop was closed.

When it opened again, all those who had refunds from their holidays etc had money they wished to put into their homes, so business is doing well.

WHAT IS NEW FOR THIS YEAR AND NEXT? We will be extending due to continued success with more choice, styles while still keeping the more traditional designs people know and love.

WHAT IS THE CURRENT CHRISTMAS DELIVERY LEAD TIME? If you are thinking of a new sofa for Christmas, please consider ordering your sofa as soon as possible to guarantee Christmas delivery as due to the current circumstance and demand, the current lead time is 14 weeks from date of order.

Their full collection is available to view now at the Kendal showroom at: 37 Highgate, LA9 4ED N 01539 734439 F Edward James Furniture E enquiries@edwardjamesfurniture.com www.edwardjamesfurniture.com www.lancmag.com

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 35

How to Get the Millions of Mites Living in Your Home to Bite The Dust!

by Airborne Allergens Expert, Max Wiseberg otherwise harmless substance. The body produces excess histamines – which can cause wheezing, sneezing, runny nose or soreness and redness of the skin or eyes – very similar to the more well-known hay fever symptoms.

G

et ready – this bit is not going to be pleasant! We can be spending a third of our lives in bed with between 100,000 to 10 million dust mites, according to Environment, Health & Safety Online[1], with almost 100,000 in just onesquare-metre of carpet! Dust allergies are caused by dust mites and these tiny critters love humid, warm places where humans shed their skin cells and sweat, so your home provides the perfect environment. It doesn’t matter how clean and spotless you keep it either, they are present in every house. Spending more time inside during the winter months increases contact with these allergens, causing symptoms to flare up and become difficult to manage.

And now it gets worse: a dust mite allergy is in fact a reaction to proteins in the excretion of the dust mites. Yes, you’re allergic to poo!

All homes in the UK have dust mites, and they are so tiny they are pretty much invisible to the naked eye. But don’t worry – unless you have a dust mite allergy, they are harmless.

When the allergenic proteins are breathed in or make contact with the skin of an allergic person, they experience an allergic reaction. This is an overreaction of the body’s immune system to an

The cold like symptoms such as a runny nose and sinus pain mean that many people believe they have a ‘winter cold’ when their symptoms are in fact a result of spending more time inside amongst dust allergens than in the summer. This may actually be the first time someone realises that they have an allergy.

Prevention is key with all allergies. No home is 100% allergen free, but there are some simple ways to minimise the allergens around you. Here are some simple, easy to implement tips: Dust mites thrive in warm humid environments, our beds being one of their favourite spots. We spend about a third of our day in bed, shedding skin cells and creating moisture with our breath and bodies which the microscopic mites need to live on.

So it’s a good idea to change and wash bedding regularly and use allergy friendly mattress covers and bedding. Keep cuddly toys and blankets in a cupboard to prevent the build-up of allergens on them.

Vacuum the house regularly, especially beds and fabrics to remove dust allergens, and damp dust surfaces so that allergens are not redistributed into the air.

Use an allergen barrier balm around the nostrils and eyes to trap dust allergens.

HayMax organic drug-free allergen barrier balm has been proven in university studies to trap dust allergens before they enter the

body. And it’s suitable for children and breast-feeding women.

It may also be beneficial to install “Allergy Friendly” flooring and to consider using an air filter/purifier with a HEPA (High Efficiency Particle Arresting) filter to capture the dust particles. Dust mites thrive in moist environments, so keep the humidity in your house between 40% and 20% to control allergens.

Create your own dust allergy first aid kit, consisting of one or more natural product, one antihistamine, one nasal spray and eye drops. The interesting thing about this is that many of these remedies can be complementary to each other. So if one helps, but doesn’t do the whole job, you may be able to try other remedies at the same time and get a better result.

But there are rules: never take two antihistamines together, never take two steroid nasal sprays together, and consult your pharmacist or doctor if you are already taking any other medication.

REFERENCE: [1] www.ehso.com/dustmites.php

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BESPOKE UNDERSTAIRS STORAGE

BY GIOBELLA

ONLINE QUOTE › TECHNICAL SURVEY BESPOKE MANUFACTURING › EXPERT INSTALLATION › WARRANT Y

Various colours and finishes available

For sizes and price guide visit understairs.co.uk/price-guide

MAKING THE INACCESSIBLE… ACCESSIBLE

UNIT 22 SHERDLEY ROAD INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, LOSTOCK HALL, PRESTON, PR5 5JF | 0161 624 5000

Meet The New Team at Redrow’s Oak Leigh Gardens WITH some of Redrow’s finest property styles, and in an equally great location, Oak Leigh Gardens in Barrow has already become home to a host of delighted new residents.

Pictured L to R: Leonie Shorrock, Dawn Morters, Rob Jones and Paul Fishwick, outside one of the homes at Oak Leigh Gardens.

Pictured L to R: Rob Jones, Leonie Shorrock, Paul Fishwick and Dawn Morters, inside one of the homes at Oak Leigh Gardens.

Nestled in the beautiful Ribble Valley and surrounded by rolling hills, while still being close to shops, restaurants and schools, it’s easy to see why so many families and couples have chosen to move there.

Redrow for almost 10 years after swapping a career in estate agency sales. He has worked on a number of developments, most recently Worden Gardens in Leyland where he won Sales Consultant of the Year for Redrow Lancashire.

And, with additional homes available for sale at the Whalley Road development near Clitheroe, there’s a new team waiting to welcome more: from the sales consultants who’ll guide owners through the buying journey, to the site manager whose job it is to make sure the property they choose is perfect from the moment they step through the door.

He is joined by sales consultant Dawn Morters, 55, who also joined the company just under 10 years ago.

“We have a team of people at Oak Leigh Gardens whose mission it is to make sure that everything is spot on,” says Sian Pitt, sales director for Redrow Lancashire.

As customer service manager it’s her role to guide customers when they see their home for the first time and stay in touch for the first three months after moving in, responding to any issues to ensure total satisfaction.

“That extends from the sales team who might be a first contact and will take customers from reservation to completion, to the construction teams building the homes, and customer care colleagues who want to make sure buyers continue to have a positive journey after moving in.

“Every one of them is passionate about what they do, so every Redrow customer can be assured of our commitment to them.”

It’s an award-winning crew too.

Senior sales consultant Paul Fishwick, 34, has been working for 38

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Leonie Shorrock, 36, is another award-winning member of the team. Leonie has been with Redrow for six years and was voted Customer Service Employee of the Year in 2021.

Site manager Rob Jones, 27, has been with Redrow for 10 years, training as a bricklayer before getting onto the management ladder.

Also overseeing the development is sales manager Gavin Powell and new area construction manager Barry Holden.

To find out more about the homes available at Oak Leigh Gardens visit www.redrow.co.uk/oakleigh or call 01254 865167 to arrange an appointment with Paul and Dawn. www.lancmag.com

Febland Group Ltd Furniture, Lighting, Ar t & Gif ts Ashwor th Road, Blackpool Lancashire, FY4 4UN T: 01253 600 600 www.fabulousfurniture.co.uk

The life of Di

A monthly column by Di Wade, the author of ‘A Year In Verse’

TRAVELLING CUPS OF TEA

I

t’s astonishing how far a cup of tea can travel. One minute I’d a full cup of Yorkshire sitting beside me this morning, (waiting to do duty as vital fortifier for the day ahead), the next I’d caught it with my sleeve, and my quick reactions notwithstanding, it’d run the length of the window bottom, drenching everything in its path: And while I was assiduously wiping plastic, ornaments, stray CDs, and about six hundred batteries, I couldn’t help but notice the weather beyond the window.

Yesterday, I’d exited the house into a howling world of flying dustbins and having half Niagara Falls dumped on one before one’d cleared the top step. Today, when I was going nowhere so couldn’t have cared less if it’d teemed, tipped, or tossed down cats, dogs, and baby killer whales, it seemed all was calm as a millpond, and bright as a cornfield slumbering in the sun. Sickening, but how often was it thus?

It was a similar story, if in reverse, to Morecambe a few weeks ago. Arriving with thoughts of a good long walk, my parents and I were twenty minutes into this when the heavens opened - and we spent the next half hour huddled under an umbrella, vainly seeking somewhere into which to duck for a while. I was just thinking I’d write to Morecambe council later, and suggest they build more precincts or amusement arcades against such inclemency when the precipitation abruptly

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stopped – just long enough for my dad to remove and stow his waterproof, before starting up again. Nice one.

But Fair do’s, it soon afterwards relented at last, allowing us to do justice to the wonderful wide prom, including checking out seabirds, admiring fishing boats, and looking out across a bay misty enough to hide gorillas, haunted houses, or fairy castles if one were of a fanciful turn of mind. The main point for me however was that the rest of the week, most notably when I’d been tied to my computer, had been an absolute scorcher.

Now however, when I was free to utilize and enjoy it with knobs on, and longed so to do, it was as though someone had flicked a switch. Moreover, when halfway home later, the sun finally came out like a good ‘n, it was hard not to feel mocked akin to carrying one’s tea into the living-room a few nights earlier, when this had abruptly parted company with the tray and landed on the floor: Wrongside up of course so that that’d been me for the next three hours – down on my hands and knees scraping potato salad and coleslaw off the carpet: And knowing full well that with my eyesight and non-smell, I could likely be doing this till dawn, and still have a carpet resembling a child’s tantrum with paints, and ponging of whatever mayonnaise does pong of when merrily soaking into one’s wilton.

But the upside of things going pear-shaped when they could as easily have gone just peachily, and with gay abandon, is that one is doubly thankful for small mercies, and positively ecstatic when things DON’T make like the Goes Wrong Show. Just last Saturday, my dad and I had a nice walk up at Fleetwood, putting the world to rights about boxing, rugby league, and Olympic sailing while closer to hand, boats bobbed on the incoming tide, and the fishermen of England hardily sat and did their thing: And although the day was grey, the rain kindly held off till we’d got back where, after a fitting fish pie, and a spot of competitive Scrabble,--which I won,--it later halted sufficiently to allow me to get home without getting soaked.

So nothing earthshattering, basically just an autumnal day which didn’t sheet it down on us. However, the end result was a feeling of warmth and satisfaction: And when Saints beat the Dragons, and Fury overcame Wilder, all seemed sound as a cup of Yorkshire tea, and temporarily right with the world. www.lancmag.com

E&M PROPERTY SOLUTIONS ARE SPECIALISTS IN SALES, LETTINGS, STUDENT ACCOMMODATION AND HMO’S

E&M PROPERTY SOLUTIONS

A VIBRANT BURNLEY ESTATE AGENTS OFFERING SALES & LETTINGS At E&M Property Solutions, we’re a dynamic estate agency in Burnley that pride ourselves on breadth and quality of service. We’re a letting agent that caters for all markets – corporate businesses, housing benefit tenants, workers, and professionals. We offer single lets or rooms in HMO’s (Houses of Multiple Occupation).

81 COAL CLOUGH LANE, BURNLEY BB11 4NS

01282 711560 E sales@eandmps.com

E lettings@eandmps.com

E admin@eandmps.com

WWW. EANDMPS .C OM

E&M

Property Solutions

By Emily Walker

E&M Property Solutions Are a Vibrant Estate Agents, Providing a Traditional Service But Specialising in Hmos

E&M

was formed in 2017 and was re-branded from Etherington Property Management to E&M Property Solutions. They have been trading for almost five years and has thrived in that time, excelling in all areas including letting, selling and renovations. The success of this company is partly accredited to the fact that it benefits from the 18 years of industry experience held by their integral team members. As a result of this success, the company will be expanding and moving premises with their new offices being found on Coal Clough Lane.

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HMOs are the specialism of E&M Property Solutions, with the founder being a major investor herself and with such extensive communications with local people and businesses, they can usually line tenants up to move in as soon as the property is ready. HMOs are a perfect way to live for new workers or people looking to save so that they can get on the property ladder. To ensure the high standard of the property is maintained, E&M Property Solutions carry out regular inspections of the properties.

Specialising in sales, sourcing, lettings and HMOs, with investors all over the world, you will find this local independent company is very different to the standard estate agency. The scope of this company is ever increasing, they now cover every BB postcode as well as every PR postcode and are looking to expand further into the Preston area continuing to offer their vast array of services including:

HMOs (HOUSES OF MULTIPLE OCCUPATION) HMOs are houses with multiple occupants and is a type of housing that is popular with both tenants and investors. HMOs are beneficial for investors as they can maximise the amount they can earn from one property than if it was just a single dwelling. They are also beneficial for tenants as they can get quality accommodation at a lower price than if they had to pay for the full property.

In providing HMOs, E&M Property Solutions provides a chance for people to invest without living in the North West as they offer the full service. Firstly, they bring the property up to modern standards via a bespoke refurbishment programme to create fresh and vibrant accommodation for tenants. After the property has been renovated and refurbished it will be marketed ready to be let by tenants. www.lancmag.com

SALES E&M Property Solutions believe that going the extra mile should be a standard expected for each and every client and from the initial free market appraisal E&M Property Solutions will do all the work. They take care of the entire process for you, from marketing the property in the most beneficial way to then arranging, scheduling and completing viewings.

It is the endeavour of E&M to also represent you throughout the negotiation stage in the most optimal way possible, ensuring you receive a fair and preferential sale for your home.

Even beyond this, E&M Property Solutions can help facilitate and direct you on the legalities of selling your home and also help deal with and resolve any unexpected issues that may occur making the sale process as smooth as possible for you.

LETTING Whether you are looking to let a property yourself or you are trying to find a new agency to manage your portfolio, E&M Property Solutions are on hand to help. Their dynamic and experienced team can help you select the right property for you, to make your next home from their outstanding and vast portfolio which can be viewed via their website.

If you are looking for someone new to manage your properties then E&M Property Solutions are the ideal place to turn. Their local connections and knowledge provide an extensive list of potential new residents before the property is even on the market.

In addition to this, E&M Property Solutions believe that surpassing expectations should be a standard so whilst they manage your portfolio you can be assured of smooth and easy transactions.

SOURCING PROPERTY E&M Property Solutions understand that people are not just looking for their next house, they want a home and with that in mind, they strive to locate the best properties available for their clients, keeping a constant eye out for new renovation projects and houses that may be going onto the market. With this proactive approach E&M Property Solutions display some of the best properties on the market for quality and value.

RENOVATIONS Partnered with their sister company Tec Northwest, the two companies perform some incredible renovations.

The local knowledge held by the team at E&M Property Solutions allows them to identify and engage with any potential renovation project that would benefit from the investment.

The talent at Tec Northwest complete the renovation to an incredibly high standard and in doing this the local area is greatly benefited. In the recent years a lot of work has been put into renovating Burnley and the work done by these two companies has greatly contributed to that new image. Together Tec Northwest and E&M Property Solutions have brought countless derelict properties back to life and their great work continues on.

The hard work and determination exhibited in the above areas has led to the overwhelming success of the company today. Their professional 

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manner and stunning properties has opened the door to an influx of business, so much so that they have expanded the business to a larger office in Burnley.

Further to this, E&M Property Solutions have secured new premises to begin work in Rishton in 2022, bringing the same high quality service to that new area. Also, the company is looking to expand even further by securing a more permanent base in the Preston area in the near future. There are many great times ahead for this company as they continue to go from strength to strength.

In addition to all the work they do, it is important to them to give back to the community. The work they do with renovations has already had such a positive impact on the area but E&M Property Solutions were adamant that they wanted to do more. The

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generosity they have exhibited in the last year includes sponsoring a local children’s football club. This enabled the club to get new equipment for games and practices as well as entirely new football kits.

Not only did they generously support the football team, E&M Property Solutions also gave back by working alongside the local authorities and government on their mission to ease the refugee crisis in countries such as Afghanistan that really needed their support the most. By using all the resources they had at their disposal, E&M Property Solutions managed to help secure housing for the refugees to help them get settled and feel safe in their new location.

Further to this, due to the increased work on care home staff throughout the pandemic as a way of further giving back to the community, the

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company selected one care home and paid for their 2020 Christmas party, another incredible gesture.

Continuing again with their generosity, E&M Property Solutions have been accepting nominations and votes for which care home they will help this year, where they will be contributing an incredible £1,000 to their 2021 Christmas Party. E&M Property Solutions are a clear asset to the area.

To benefit from the incredible service that E&M Property Solutions offer, you can contact them at any of the details below.

Their new office can be found at:

M 81 Coal Clough Lane, Burnley, BB11 4NS N 01282 711560 E sales@eandmps.com E lettings@eandmps.com E admin@eandmps.com D www.eandmps.com

www.lancmag.com

Christmas £1,000

Giveaway

E&M Property Solutions are donating £1,000 to a local care home to help fund a Christmas party. We want to give the residents more fun this Christmas after a tough few years!

We feel it's our duty to give back.

BUT, we need your help...

Which care home should receive our donation? Please contact us and make a nomination, we would appreciate your input. Help us spread some joy to those who need it the most!

Email your nominations to: sales@eandmps.com

01282 711560 sales@eandmps.com www.eandmps.com

Astronaut’s View of The Earth at Pennington The world has come to Pennington Flash, with a floating globe over the lake at the Leigh Country Park.

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loating Earth, is an art

It is a 10metre diameter globe,

installation by Luke Jerram,

using high resolution NASA

brought to the North

imagery. It shows an exact scaled

West by Wigan Council and The

down version of the planet and is

Lancashire Wildlife Trust’s Carbon

the view that astronauts see when

Landscape project.

they are in space – or the “overview

Photos: Luke Jerram’s globe at Pennington by Becky Royce

effect”.

It is a unique way to see earth in all its glory, and astronauts are often become overwhelmed by the beauty and the wonder but it also makes them realise how small our world is and how important it is.

Many astronauts become environmentalists after being in space because of this view of our planet.

Lancashire Wildlife Trust’s Chief Executive Tom Burditt said: “We are all on one planet, we’re all interconnected and we all need to look after our home.”

Alongside the floating earth there are audio recordings of people talking about the importance of our planet.

More details here www.wigan. gov.uk/News/Articles/2021/Nov/ Artist-Luke-Jerram.aspx

The Wildlife Trusts 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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Our aim is to design and create furniture to fit perfectly in your beautiful homes. We offer a high range of designer fabrics which are only of the best quality. Our aim is to provide our customers with a tailor made, bespoke service that allows you to design and create the perfect furniture for your beautiful homes.

We offer an extensive range of designer fabrics to ensure our customers receive the highest quality finishes for their bespoke furniture.

With 10 years experience and City and Guilds Level 4 qualification in upholstery we can therefore offer free home consultations. In these consultations we can design and discuss all your ideas so we can make the furniture to fit all of your requirements.

All of our jobs come with a 3 year guarantee so please get in touch with us to make your dream furniture a reality.

SB BESPOKE UPHOLSTERY, Millers of Longton, Unit G, Wendover, Gill Lane, Longton PR4 5SR Email: stephen@sbbespokeupholstery.co.uk Call: 07584 200 834 Visit: www.sbbespokeupholstery.co.uk F SBBespokeUpholstery I sbbespoke

CLITHEROE

By Megha Seth

Clitheroe is an ancient market town in the Borough of Ribble Valley district, Lancashire.

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t was also known as Clyderhow and Cletherwoode, among others. The name is believed to come from the Anglo-Saxon phrase ‘Rocky Hill’. It was the administrative centre for the lands owned by the Honour of Clitheroe.

A shopping haven catering to everyone’s taste with unique keeps that one usually does not come across even on high street markets, Clitheroe has plenty to offer to its tourists. From its vibrant night-life to classy entertainment and spectacular countryside views of Ribble Valley, this town is the perfect place for a short getaway with family and friends. A melting pot of culture, nature, and history, get your travel list ready as you tick off items.

PLACES TO VISIT AND THINGS TO DO IN CLITHEROE Clitheroe is a town that has a lot to offer to its visitors in terms of local experience. We have carefully curated a list for you to indulge in the Clitheroe experience completely.  Clitheroe Castle and Museum The Clitheroe Castle is beautifully nestled above the town of Clitheroe with breathtaking panoramic views of Ribble Valley.

Above 800 years old, dominating the Clitheroe skyline, apart from the castle, there is also a museum, a gift shop, and a cafe that makes it an A1 must-visit spot when in Clitheroe.

The Clitheroe Castle Museum is an award-winning site that offers not only a recreational space but also imparts knowledge about the story of the town, how the landscape was formed 350 million years ago, and about Ribble Valley and its contribution towards being a haven for wildlife. The galleries have displays of the rich heritage of Clitheroe, industries, legends, and folklore.

With its gate open all year round, the castle and museum make a great spot for a picnic as well, with its lush green surrounding outdoor park.  Forest of Bowland An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a protected space under the National Parks and Access to Countryside Act. The Forest of Bowland has a diverse variety of stunning natural landscapes, shaped by both natural and anthropogenic activities.

The serenity and beauty of the area give it the prominent status of AONB. From the grand upland core to the rolling lowlands, escarpments, settlements, and wildlife, the landscape’s historic and cultural fusion remains unmatched to any other.  Bowland Brewery Who does not enjoy a couple of cold beers on a sunny afternoon or after an exhausting day? If you are fascinated by how this

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refreshing drink is made then Bowland Brewery is a spot that you cannot miss. Established in 2003 on the edge of Forest of Bowland Area, the microbrewery takes its inspiration from the Forest of Bowland- an area of breathtaking natural beauty in the Ribble Valley. Now, as its reputation and demands have soared, they have relocated to Holmes Mill. This award-winning brewery also flexes the longest bar in Britain with its Bowland Brewery Beer Hall.  Longitude Gallery The perfect place for an art enthusiast, the Longitude Gallery is situated right in the heart of Clitheroe. The displays include exhibits of artists from all over the Northern UK and selective work from all over the UK. From photography exhibits to paintings and sculptures, hold your breath as you delve deep into the world of art at this avant-garde gallery.  Pendle Hill Pendle Hill is situated in the east of Lancashire, in the detached part of the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, near the town of Oldham. Abundant in natural beauty and rich in folklore, this place is a must visit for history buffs and folklore lovers.

Pendle Hill, an area that is enchanting and bewitching by all means has ties to the infamous witch trials of 1612. Pendle has been enchanted by legend and history. The area was once home to wolves and wild boars. Today, Pendle Hill still has hamlets and farms dotted on it. It remains an untamed place rich in mystery. You can opt for long distance walks like parts of the Bronte Way and 43mile Pendle Way. These trails provide a stunning view of historic and natural beauty along with some delightful country inns and farmhouses for rest and refreshment.  The Grand Catch your favourite artist, movie or band in town at this state-of-the-art multi-million dollar auditorium.

As already known, Clitheroe is famous for its nightlife and cultural scenes. So make sure to book your tickets soon as you keep an eye on the line-up of the event list at the all encompassing ambiance at The Grand.  Clitheroe Country Market Clitheroe is quite famous as a market town so it is a given that one ought to check out what the town has to offer when it comes to shopping. The Clitheroe Country Market is held every Tuesday and has a wide variety of stalls. From local produce like eggs, the freshest of vegetables and meat, to locally baked goodies, hand-crafted pieces of jewellery, and crafts, home-grown plants, clothes, and priceless antiques, one can never run out of options to carry back home as souvenirs. The vibrant atmosphere of the market along with the unique finds here certainly makes it to the list. www.lancmag.com

 The Time Train If you are a hobbyist who is into collectibles, be it timeless antique pieces, vinyl records, lava lamps, old toys, so on and so forth, then you must drop by at The Time Train at Clitheroe. A family-run business that has been around for years, one can buy and sell all sorts of collectibles at this very interesting shop. The in-house cafe with freshly baked items and freshly ground coffee is the cherry on the cake.

PLACES TO STAY IN CLITHEROE Discover places to stay in Clitheroe for the best experience.  Milton Hall is an avant-garde four star country house hotel providing the best Clitheroe experience.

This 15th-century manor house was revamped and brought back to life to attract tourists wanting to indulge in luxury and exclusivity in this vibrant town. With spacious and gorgeous rooms to stunning interior designs, the hotel is effortlessly beautiful and romantic.  Best Western Burnley West Higher Trapp Hotel is situated 4 miles away from Clitheroe but is a quick 12 minutes drive. This quaint country house hotel is a great deal for its budget and provides a wonderful accommodation experience. With a lounge area, beautiful and spacious rooms, their list of amenities makes it all the more welcoming.

LOCAL CUISINE The best way to explore a place is through the various local cuisines that they have to offer, apart from the usual go-to cuisine that you love feasting on.  The White Hart is a gastropub and restaurant known for its superb food and the course tasting menu at really affordable rates. With a range of drinks, look out for their roasted beef, black pudding, and panna cotta. The place has various vegetarian and vegan options to choose from as well.  Coach & Horses Restaurant has bagged the Traveller’s Choice Award in 2021 and rightfully so. Rated as the #1 bar and restaurant in the vicinity, this place takes away the jackpot with its beautiful ambiance, its location, and diverse food and drinks menu.  Blueberries Cafe is a little gem in Clitheroe. With its freshly home baked items like cakes, bread, cookies and tea, lattes, cappuccinos, and a great breakfast and light food menu to choose from, the food here will literally remind you of home away from home.

Clitheroe is a destination where fun and adventure fuses together to give you a memorable experience. This quirky town is blessed with striking natural beauty while also offering you an urban experience as you take in its historic charm during your escapade here.

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Tannenbaum Trauma

By Kate Gostick

Long before the dawn of Christianity, people have brightened up the Winter months by hanging evergreen branches above their doors to ward off witches and evil spirits during the long, dark nights.

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or the Druids the boughs symbolised everlasting life, and the Vikings believed evergreens were the plant of the sun god, Balder.

In ancient Rome, Saturnalia, a midDecember feast in honour of the God of Agriculture, Saturn, was marked by evergreens in homes and temples to symbolise the anticipated fruitfulness and greenery of the fields, orchards and olive groves. In Germany, in the 16th century, Christians brought decorated trees into their homes around Christmas time. From as early as 1747, German settlers in Pennsylvania erected Christmas trees first in their community spaces and then in their individual homes, but the trees were rejected by the wider population who saw them as “pagan mockery”. Queen Victoria’s German husband, Prince Albert, brought the idea of a decorated tree to England. In 1846, when the couple was portrayed in a sketch standing next to a Christmas with their children, decorated trees became the must-have item in any fashionable Victorian home.

Christmas trees have always brought with them conflict in our house. Neither my husband nor I had grown up with a real tree. We had a plastic tree whose branches needed to be inserted into the two-piece brown 50

plastic trunk sat in a three-pronged stand. Each year, from the year I was born, when my grandparents had brought the tree for me, a plastic twig would become detached, and we would search for the stub in order to reattached it. My dad would then disappear into the shed to fix the lights and return moments later with a twinkling string to bring the plastic tree to life. Dominic’s dad also had broken lights to repair every year, but he was not so technically proficient with electrical items as my dad, so Dominic recalls yearly stress and argument as their golden tinsel tree was erected and attempts made to illuminate it.

When it was time for us to get our own tree, we had decided to go for the real tree option. Before moving to America, we would head off to Delemere Forest some time in the first two weeks of December.

Dominic would pull out a tree from the pre-cut specimens leaning against the wooden fence and hold it up for my approval. A shake of the head would signal to him that this was not “the one” and he would then pull out a succession of trees before I came to the conclusion that the first tree he had pulled out was actually the perfect tree. We would then head off into a hut to meet a man from the Rotary Club wearing a white nylon beard and a red suit. It was here that my children discovered that Santa’s real name was Dave, as a well-meaning elf popped her head around the door of the hut to ask Father Christmas a very important question. “Do you want a brew Dave?” she yelled. “Lovely Sheila.

I’m parched,” replied Santa adjusting

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his nylon beard and asking James, who was sitting on his knee, what he wanted Father Christmas to bring him this year.

When we moved to America, Santa was only to be found in the Shopping Malls, and tree buying became an experience of its own. Families in America usually purchased their trees the last weekend of November when the passing of Thanksgiving heralded the start of the “Holiday Season” and Fall decorations were exchanged for Christmas ones. Dominic loved to go to Trombetta’s ice cream and garden centre, where you would select a precut tree and then sit and eat ice cream whilst the tree was strapped securely to the top of the car by Mr Trombetta.

As soon as you had lapped up the scraps of black raspberry, chocolate or coffee from the bottom of the enormous paper tub with the festive red plastic spoon and maybe bought a poinsettia or two, it was all ready for you to drive off hassle-free. I, on the other hand, preferred the long drive to a tree farm in Grafton, where you were given a large tarp and a saw and pointed in the direction of the field full of trees in the distance. You would then march off through the snow to choose the perfect tree. After much discussion, the tree was selected.

Dominic would lie on the frosty, wet ground to saw away at the trunk, snow falling in clumps on his back from the long branches of the fattest tree in the field until it fell. He would lift it onto the tarp and drag it back to the car through the snow, which would rise up over the top of his boots and melt against his skin before dripping down into his socks. He would then attempt to lift the wet spiky branches onto the www.lancmag.com

top of the car before strapping it on with string, whilst the boys and I went into a warm hut for hot cider and cookies and to pay. To me, this was a much more romantic way to begin the celebrations, but for some reason, it was less appealing to Dominic, so we would alternate between the tree farm and Trombetta’s until we went to Germany and everything changed.

German parents decorate their Tannenbaum in secret with candles, tinsel and traditional ornaments on Christmas Eve, and the tree is revealed to the children with their gifts nestled under its branches with snacks of cookies and nuts. For German children, Saint Nicholas has already filled their shoes with sweets and chocolate and left his gifts on his special day, December 5th. The protestant reformer Martin Luther started the tradition of adding lighted candles to decorate the tree in an attempt to recapture the brilliance of a starry Christmas sky. This addition of naked flames meant that Germans would not buy trees until the few days before Christmas to make sure the needles remained fresh and giant pines did not ignite in their living rooms into a festive fireball. We would travel to England a few days before Christmas, so we needed a tree much earlier in the season than they were available in the shops.

However, friends who had lived in Germany for several years before us assured us that they knew of a tree farm a little way south of Frankfurt where you could cut down your own tree from the start of December. In our first year in Germany, we all set off in a huge ex-pat convoy down the motorway on the first weekend www.lancmag.com

of December. The friends had told us it was a bit of a drive, but we had not expected two hours at lightning German autobahn speeds. It felt like we were almost in Austria when we saw the sign for the farm. Everyone bundled out of their cars and headed for the little hut where a man pointed us towards what seemed more like a cliff face than a field of trees. Clinging on the side of the rocky slope were the saddest collection of trees you had ever seen. Each one of them had received no light from behind, where the land rose sharply, blocking out the sun. The only light came from across the valley and meant that the trees had one beautiful bushy side and one totally bald side. We all scrambled up the bank clinging onto the grass to prevent ourselves from slipping back down towards the car park.

We found the least twig-like tree that we could, that had a small area with some semblance of greenery and life clinging to its branches, and Dominic attempted to saw through the trunk.

Since the ground rose up sharply behind the trunk, this was not an easy task as the saw banged against the rocky slope. This was a piece of cake in comparison to trying to get the tree safely down the vertical path towards the hut to pay.

Eventually, Dominic managed to wrestle the tree down, spending as much of the descent on his bum as his feet. He strapped it to the car, and I went to pay. I did not dare to tell him the cost. As the only tree farm, it seemed in the whole of Germany, supplying crazy foreigners who wanted trees weeks before the big day, the owners were more than aware that they were a monopoly that could

charge a premium. Suddenly, even the Grafton tree farm seemed appealing to Dominic, and the journey back along the autobahn only added to this appeal. If the journey there had taken two hours travelling at 90 miles an hour, the journey back with a halfdead skeleton of a tree strapped to the roof was to take much, much longer.

Even I failed to see the romance of the experience, as we positioned the tree in the corner of the living room so that there were two walls to hide its lack of foliage. The following year we bought a plastic tree that we continued to use back in America. I always wanted a tree with coordinated decorations and beads, but the rest of the family preferred tinsel and a hotchpotch of decorations collected from our travels and made in preschool classrooms.

Thus, the plastic tree became the home to tinsel, baubles with pictures of European cities, reindeers made of tiny handprints and two lollypop sticks framing photos of three-yearolds in Santa hats.

When we returned from Germany, Dominic’s days of watching over the top of his ice-cream cone as a Trombetta tree was strapped to the top of his car were well and truly over. Edward, our middle son, had started work at a tree farm in Southborough. The elderly couple, who owned it, had been looking for a new boy scout to help them out there as the old one had gone off to university. Edward became an apprentice tree farmer, which meant that there was an expectation that we would buy our tree from the farm, and Dominic’s days of ice cream with tree shopping were well and truly over!

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Ernest Mangnall – A Unique Football Manager

By Margaret Brecknell

Ernest Mangnall, who died 90 years ago in January 1932, may not be a household name today, but he holds a unique place in Manchester’s football history. Over the years the two Manchester clubs have been managed by some of the sport’s most high-profile figures, but only Mangnall has thus far managed both United and City.

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ames Ernest Mangnall, the son of a joiner, was born in Bolton on 4th January 1866. A keen amateur footballer, his first managerial role came when he was appointed club secretary/manager of his home town club, Bolton Wanderers in the late 1890s.

In March 1900 Mangnall was appointed as the new manager of Lancashire rivals, Burnley. During his time at Burnley there was little hint of the successful managerial career which was to come. At the time of his arrival the club were battling relegation and duly lost their position in the top flight at the end of the season. Having challenged unsuccessfully for promotion during their first season in Division Two, matters went from bad to worse and the club finished bottom of the entire Football League in the 1902/03 season.

Soon after, Mangnall left the Clarets to join Burnley’s Second Division rivals, Manchester United. The Manchester United which Mangnall joined in 1903 were a very different proposition to today’s sporting giants. The club had been founded as Newton Heath L&YR FC in 1878 (L&YR stood for “Lancashire & Yorkshire Railway”, the company for which the team’s players originally worked) and had only changed their name to Manchester United the year before Mangnall became manager. At the time of his arrival they played their home fixtures at Bank Street in Clayton, not far from where Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium is now situated. The development of United’s famous Old Trafford stadium was still seven years in the future. 

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In view of his lack of previous managerial success, Mangnall’s appointment was inevitably greeted with scepticism in some quarters. Any disquiet on the part of fans may well not have been helped by a feature on Mangnall’s managerial style which had appeared in the Lancashire Evening Post at the time he was given the Burnley job. “It is not good, he considers, to give the men too much practice with the ball”, reported the paper. “Some people seemed to think players should have the ball every day, but once a week was plenty in his estimation”.

Mangnall does, however, appear to have been ahead of his time in his treatment of players.

“He believes in handling them as men”, reported the Lancashire Evening Post, “and finds he can get more work out of them by such a policy, accompanied with tact, than otherwise”.

Following his appointment Mangnall was immediately given a healthy budget to recruit new players

by United’s ambitious new Chairman, John Henry Davies. Over the next three seasons the new manager gradually assembled a good side including defender, Charlie Roberts, for a then club record transfer fee of £600.

United won promotion to Division One in the 1905/06 season and the following year achieved a respectable mid-table position. The following season United not only won the league title for the first time, but also did so with a record number of points. Following their success the Athletic News commented that “Such facts speak volumes for the players, and for the management of Mr Ernest Mangnall”.

been making additional payments on a large scale to their star players. An official investigation into their actions concluded that “the club had for years systematically broken the rules by very unscrupulous means”.

The club were fined heavily, in addition to which most of their players were suspended for a year. City were compelled to sell many of their stars and at an extraordinary auction held at Manchester’s Queen’s Hotel in October 1906 United took full advantage of their close neighbours’ plight. United manager, Mangnall, snapped up Meredith for a bargain fee of £500, as well as three other City players, Herbert Burgess, Sandy Turnbull and Jimmy Bannister.

With the addition of the four City stars at rock bottom prices, Mangnall had created an impressive side and it was little surprise when United followed up their first league title by winning the FA Cup for the first time in 1909. A further league title followed in 1911, in a season which was also notable for being the club’s first full season at Old Trafford.

However, Mangnall’s tenure as Manchester United manager ended just over a year later when, just after the start of the 1912/13 season, he joined United’s great rivals, Manchester City.

One newspaper reported that “the directors of the City club are elated at

securing Mr Mangnall’s services”.

Remarkably, Mangnall’s last game in charge of United came against City in the Manchester derby of September 1912, with City coming out as 1-0 winners. By this stage it was widely known that the manager was joining United’s rivals. Indeed, at the end of the game the Manchester United directors presented Mangnall with what was described in the local press as a “handsome silver table ornament” in recognition of his services to the club.

Despite this gesture on the part of the United board, Mangnall, it seems, did little to hide his evident pleasure at his new club’s victory. Not for the first or last time in football history, United’s successful manager appears to have fallen out with the club owners over a lack of funds available for new players. The cost of building the club’s impressive new Old Trafford stadium had left United saddled with debt.

Mangnall’s career at City started in spectacular fashion, with the team winning every game during his first month in charge. One newspaper noted that, “Nine years have passed since Manchester City commenced a campaign in this stimulating style”.

However, they were unable to maintain this level of performance over the entire season and ultimately finished a creditable sixth. 

Captained by the influential Roberts, the title-winning side included four men who had previously played for Manchester City including one of football’s earliest superstars, Billy Meredith.

The Welsh winger had joined United, together with his three City teammates, in controversial circumstances. At a time when Football League rules dictated that clubs should pay their players no more than £4 per week, City had become embroiled in a huge financial scandal when it became known they had www.lancmag.com

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By the time that play in the Football League was suspended in 1915 because of World War I, Mangnall had assembled a decent, if not worldbeating, side.

City’s development under Mangnall continued following the resumption of league football in the 1919/20 season. One notable signing came when the now 46-year-old Billy Meredith returned to City on a free transfer. During the 1920/21 season City achieved their best league position in nearly two decades when they finished second behind that year’s champions, Burnley.

Progress was also being made off the field. City had played their home games at a ground on Hyde Road since the club’s early days.

The stadium had once hosted an FA Cup Semi Final in 1905, but by Mangnall’s time as manager it was becoming increasingly apparent that the club had outgrown the venue.

As far back as the pre-World War 1 days, the ground at Hyde Road had been criticised by one newspaper reporter for being “too antiquated for the complete setting of modern cuptie spectacles”. This followed a game against Sunderland which had to be abandoned when fans were forced to invade the pitch following a crush in the stands.

Matters came to a head when, in November 1920, the main stand caught fire and was burned to the ground. This came only months after one of the Hyde Road ground’s most memorable occasions when, in the first ever instance of a reigning British monarch attending a football match outside London, King George V had watched City defeat Liverpool in a league game.

Above: Manchester City’s former Maine Road ground. Credit: Cjc13/CC BY-SA 3.0

City’s first competitive game at their new Maine Road stadium came in August 1923 when, in the first match of the new league season, they defeated Sheffield United 2-1 in front of a crowd of just over 58,000 fans.

According to the Manchester Evening News, the cost of a 1923/24 season ticket for one of the best seats in the grandstand was “fixed at 3 pounds 10 shillings for gentlemen and 2 pounds 10 shillings for ladies”.

That first season at Maine Road proved to be Ernest Mangnall’s swansong as manager of City. The club enjoyed a good FA Cup run, making it all the way to the Semi Finals. A crowd of over 76,000 fans had watched City beat Cardiff in the 4th Round at their new Maine Road stadium. However, Mangnall’s contract was, surprisingly,

not renewed at the end of the season.

Following his departure from City, Mangnall continued to be involved in the administrative side of football until shortly before his death, aged 66, at his home in Lytham St Annes on 13th January 1932.

Men from football’s early days like Ernest Mangnall are rarely ever mentioned today and yet his part in the development of the two Manchester clubs was significant. Not only did he successfully manage both United and City at critical moments in their early history, but he was also a prime mover behind United’s switch to Old Trafford and City’s move to Maine Road. In doing so, Mangnall helped to lay the foundation stones for the future success of these two now world-famous football clubs. n

Below: Plaque marking location of United’s former Bank Street ground.

Credit: PeeJay2k3/CC BY-SA 3.0

The search for a new ground became more urgent following the fire and Mangnall played a significant part in the decision-making process.

For some time club officials had been considering a move to Belle Vue, but Mangnall is said to have persuaded them that a move to Maine Road on the edge of Moss Side would offer more scope for future expansion. For all its later popularity with fans, some City supporters expressed dismay when the location of the new ground on the southern side of Manchester was first announced.

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David Hatton’s latest novel: Camp

Lancashire author, David Hatton, talks to us about growing up in Lancashire and his latest novel, Camp, which explores LGBTQ+ experiences in the Holocaust.

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first became interested in the Holocaust at school when we studied it in GCSE History. In 2007, I visited some of the concentration camps across Poland with university.

Since then I’ve always wanted to write a novel on that period of history but the right story never came along. And then it hit me that we often hear about the Jewish victims, but little about LGBTQ+ experience.

Camp begins in the year 1925 and follows the story of George Taylor who has left Britain to move to the gay capital of Europe: Berlin. Back then Germany was a very liberal place, and whilst it was technically still illegal to be gay, the laws were very relaxed. Those unfortunate enough to be caught by the police were typically given a warning or at most a fine. But George’s freedoms come under threat as the Nazis make gains across the country, and their leader, Adolf Hitler, is determined to punish homosexuals

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across the land. Nobody could foresee the horrors he had planned for George and his friends.

The book doesn’t aim to overlook or take away anything away from the Jewish experiences. How could it?

Six million Jews died throughout that period of history. And it does explore those Jewish experiences who of course make appearances throughout the book, whether they were George’s friends in Berlin or his campmates at Dachau. Instead this book simply tries to shed light on a different story, a road less travelled, as many of those LGBTQ+ stories have been lost.

Even in literature and film, there are limited references to the LGBTQ+ experiences. Thankfully there were a couple of textbooks which helped me build my understanding, which are referenced in my novel.

Researching the background for the book was quite challenging.

There are few LGBTQ+ stories out there and limited information on their experiences. This was due to the Nazis destroying a lot of the records from that time. Many who survived went onto serve further sentences as gay liberation didn’t come until much later, in most cases the victims had died having never told their

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stories as they remained in the closet throughout their lives.

It was quite humbling reading the experiences which I did find.

As a gay man myself, I’m so glad to grow up in a country which today is mostly accepting of LGBTQ+ people, although I think we have a long way to go on supporting our trans friends as transphobia has risen for those under that umbrella. I got to meet the love of my life, also called David, and get on with things. Many people before me didn’t. I don’t have to look left or right before entering a gay bar like George does in my novel.

I grew up in Preston. My parents always encouraged my thirst to write and are the biggest promoters of my books. I don’t think anyone gets past them without being told about my novels. I studied at St Andrews Primary School, where my teacher read out my stories every week; I sent her my first book when it was published, she was delighted. I then went onto secondary school where the writing took a backstep until I was living in Chicago and the thirst to write was reborn. It began with a travel blog and soon led to me penning my first two novels, although it would be ten years before I dared release them.

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All of David’s novels, including his latest book, Camp, are available to buy as paperback or e-books on Amazon worldwide.

I studied at Leeds Metropolitan University (today Beckett) who received a donation to take a handful of students to see the concentration camps and I’m so blessed that I was chosen to visit. It truly does give you a sense of perspective. The one thing which struck me was how horrendously cold it was in November (when I visited) and I was wrapped up in a nice warm coat, hat and gloves. I can’t imagine how the victims coped in the dead of winter. It also inspired this novel. It is so hard to imagine that this happened within my grandparents’ lifetimes; there are still survivors amongst us. I think if anything the book will show how quickly a country can change from religious and sexual freedoms to suddenly becoming a nation which imprisons or even murders people who do not fit in with their agenda. The right winged wave across Europe, including Britain, is deeply worrying. I’m so glad Germany came out the other side to become a truly remarkable and free place to explore and live.

This is the fifth novel. My debut book came out in 2018 called The Return, which follows the story of

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Beverly Hahn who discovers her husband, who was presumed dead in the 9/11 attacks, is still alive and had faked his death to claim on the insurance. She has to navigate through the pain his return has caused for their family and friends, as well as the fury of New Yorkers.

My second novel, The Medium, is a murder mystery whereby a psychic medium claims to know the whereabouts of an atheist’s missing wife, whilst he struggles between his belief in science and the determination to find the love of his life.

My third novel, The Catfish, puts the spotlight on vigilantes and predator hunter groups as someone with a development disorder is caught up in an online trap. And finally my fourth novel, The Exhumation, which came out last year, also delves into historic fiction as a detective tries to hunt down the stolen body of Abraham Lincoln.

My editor, who has read most of my work, fed back that Camp is my magnum opus. I sure hope the readers agree. It’s the book I’m most proud of and came the easiest to me; the characters and the plot just leaked out of me, I couldn’t write it down fast enough. But more than anything, I hope everyone will take away something from the book; it’s a part of an unexplored history and I hope everyone learns something new, even if it’s just a snippet. I share a few survivor stories at the end so that their stories live on and we can ensure that history doesn’t repeat itself.

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Lancashire and Worldbuilding by Mark Jones those tiny grains.

Blowing across the sand is the salty aroma of the Irish Sea. Somewhere — under its waters — are basking sharks, jellyfish, starfish, and octopuses.

Above it are wind turbines, as well as gas and oil drilling platforms.

Annually, the contents of this attractive watery economy are worth six billion pounds. Each year, its views bring in a variety of tourists. In the summer months, even the Leatherback turtles like to spend their holidays swimming through it.

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n the summer of twenty-seventeen, plate glass frames a view of the Irish Sea. The early morning light gives its waters a tint of aquamarine mixed with emeralds. I’m looking at the view from a table in the South Shore branch of McDonald’s in Blackpool. The table is clean, except for an empty cup. It may have had a chocolate milkshake in it once.

I take a sip of coffee, look at my watch and wonder where the time has gone. I’ve spent the last few minutes thinking about a children’s book. It’s one I wrote fifteen years before, and a story that no publisher wanted. I’ve considered rewriting it, but it seems like a waste of time. The story is weak, and the characters are not convincing.

I consider buying another coffee, and I think about how time can fly. To myself, that especially applies to my writing. For many years I’ve struggled to place something. There have been some wins along the way, a job as an editor and a published poem or two.

However, it feels like a protracted losing streak. I’m beginning to wonder if it’s worth the bother. It then occurs to me that fifteen years isn’t a long time.

When you walk along the beach at Blackpool, it’s quite incredible to think some of the golden sand there could be eighty million years old. It’s been created as a result of rocks, and the shells of marine organisms, eroding. If you pick up a small amount, you can see the tiny multi colours of quartz, chromium, and mica. On a lucky day, you might see white, green, or pink in 58

As the seasons slowly change so does the clientele of Blackpool. Every September, tourists flock to see the illuminations now powered by one million lamps. In the early nineteenthirties, Blackpool’s landscape was drenched in multi-coloured neon lights. Across the black vista, whitehot light glowed from glass tubes filled with xenon gas. Green — the colour of renewal — was created using green coated tubes filled with argon.

Pink neon light was made possible by mixing argon and xenon.

My visit to Blackpool is just one spot I intend to pass through during the summer of twenty-seventeen. At a career crossroads, I decide to spend a few days on my own. The purpose is to consider my next move and get back on the rails. My thinking is to embark on a railway tour of Lancashire. Most of the places I intend to see are old family favourites. There is one location that I am particularly fond of.

On a humid Saturday morning, I board a small two-carriage train from Lancaster station to Morecambe. The journey takes around ten minutes. The interior of the train is polished and old fashioned. It almost seems to transport me back in time to a bygone era. The simple cloth seats and unaesthetic windows remove me from the modern world. As the train rocks from side to side, I’m comforted by the lack of digital boards. It seems there is a soothing pathos in being withdrawn from the twenty-first century, even if it is temporary.

Morecambe, on the northwest coast of England, has an incredible

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collection of Art Deco buildings.

The most alluring, and striking, is the Midland Hotel. Morecambe Bay also has a fabulous view of the Lakeland Fells. As a spectacle, the bay is both ethereal and rich. Even on a misty day, the scenery can cast a hypnotic spell.

I have always felt, even as a teenager, that this charming seaside town has yet to see its golden age.

Two years after visiting Morecambe, I finally decided to rewrite my children’s book. After reading through it, I realised its world-building needed improvement. The characters also needed to be refined and renamed.

As with most stories, the first two opening chapters set the tone for the work. In chapter two of the book, I tried to think of a location that could be a metaphor for a dragon called Lester Thyme. As one of the heroes of the story, Lester has never had the break he deserved. He’s worked a series of dead-end jobs for very little money. The bank account he has is drying up, and there’s no pension scheme coming to save him.

On a whim, Lester decides to visit an old childhood holiday spot. Hoping to regain his youth, he gazes out at Morecambe Bay. Looking into the waters, he watches a narrow current of water that moves directly away from the shore, slicing through the breaking waves. To Lester, the powerful riptides symbolise time running out.

Just like Morecambe, Lester Thyme has untapped potential. However, he is almost at the end of his losing streak.

All it takes for his luck to change is one person who can see the dormant talents within him. Only then does his life become one of excitement and intrigue.

As I progressed with reshaping my characters, I began to consider the world my story would take place in.

I created a hard-boiled setting called Neon City. Its rain-drenched streets, just like mirrors, reflect the colourful lights around them. Those streets are seductive. But despite being framed by a white, green, and soft pink, they are also dangerous. There is a little bit of both Blackpool and Morecambe

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RITA WONG AND THE JADE MASK

by Mark Jones is out now in paperback (£7.99, Everything with Words) in those streets, but they are not yet complete. My past will fill in the cracks.

In looking at the world, a creative author will try to imagine what is behind locked chrome doors and closed Venetian blinds. They might see an assortment of high-level criminals, or a femme-fatale looking to wager thousands of pounds on a game of Baccarat. Behind the facade of Neon City, I have added a sprinkle of Art Deco furniture that adds a touch of class. The doors leading to it are covered with gold leaf and studded with pearls.

Then comes the colours, sounds, and smells of that imaginary world.

If they are not there naturally, then the writer will have to draw on their own experience. I think of my own time in the thick humidity of Singapore, which is undercut by airconditioning. I recount the few times I mingled in a thronging casino with its kaleidoscope of colours. The white Delrin pill, or ball, that circled the roulette wheel. The green baize that covered a table hosting a game of Singapore stud poker, or a pink bow tie worn by a croupier.

The weather of Singapore becomes the climate of Neon City, where there is the rhythmic drumbeat of a monsoon every morning that heats up into a sticky vapour. Although it sometimes also has the blazing sun of a summer day in Blackpool, one where you can eat fish and chips wrapped in white paper, followed by mint green ice cream, or a large pink candy floss on a stick.

The world of Neon City, like many film noir sets, is overflowing with mirrors. As a child, I remember seeing a small casino in Blackpool with an odd-looking glass front. The lookingglass was covered in chromium. I imagined Mick Jagger was sitting behind the mirror: looking cool,

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sipping champagne, and playing roulette.

A large nightclub, formerly a bomb shelter, also comes to mind. It was buried under a street in China and was covered from top to bottom in gold-framed mirrors.

Amongst the smoke and mirrors were those crafting the elaborate stage illusion of having money to burn.

The sound of jazz music also fills my first novel. There is an assortment of coffee shops in my mind. I distinctly remember one in Morecambe, where I can hear Miles Davis playing the trumpet. I remember meeting a femme-fatale in a coffee shop in Delhi. That experience creates a character who helps Rita Wong make it to the streets of Neon City.

How does Rita Wong leave our world and enter a hidden magical place? In twenty-fifteen, I visited a shrine in southern Kyoto. It contained thousands of crimson torii gates. The torii define the boundary between the sacred space of the shrine and the unconsecrated space of the world.

When I had been to Morecambe, I am sure I had also seen one in the Japanese Garden at Happy Mount Park. It seems a nifty coincidence, and I decided to use something similar. As Alice chased a white rabbit then fell down a hole to reach Wonderland, Rita Wong will chase a green dragon through a gate and arrive at Neon City.

Rita soon discovers that Neon City is divided. There are the have-nots, the have-everythings, and the wantmores. It’s a divide I’ve seen myself.

I think of my wages as an English teacher compared to the private students whose fingers dripped with

aquamarine and emerald rings. Their kitchens were fitted with expensive quartz worktops, and their high-priced make-ups contained mica and were imported from Switzerland.

The colours of the streets and buildings in Neon City are also from memory. White like a Sunday game of dominoes in a Lancashire pub, green like Mahjong tiles played in a park in Hangzhou, or candy floss pink like Blackjack chips in a casino. The colours are surrounded by foghorns in the distance like those heard in the port of Singapore. The smells are both sharp and tasty: the charcoal smoke of winter street fires in Delhi, spicy seafood noodles like those in South Korea, bitter south Indian coffee, and the raspberry fragrance of a candy floss bought in Blackpool. There is also the pungent smell of durian: a tropical fruit so pungent that carrying it in the wrong part of Singapore carries a fine of nearly three thousand pounds.

All of these coastal areas came together and helped me — I hope — to create a convincing fictitious world.

What makes me so happy is that it all started in a place I love very much: Lancashire. Colours may seem the same the world over, but the sights, sounds, and smells of Blackpool and Morecambe are uniquely British.

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Lakeland Book of the Year Hungry for Success

By Cumbria Tourism Chosen from over 70 entries covering almost every conceivable category from wild swimming to Cumbria’s incredibly diverse history, Hungry was celebrated alongside five other category winners at a charity lunch in support of the Stroke Association, with the attendees raising over £600 for the cause on the day, with additional donations still coming in.

The judges, author and columnist Hunter Davies OBE, renowned broadcaster and Cumbria Tourism President Eric Robson OBE and BBC newscaster, presenter and author Fiona Armstrong, entertained over 70 guests with their thoughts and insights on the 18-strong shortlist before announcing the six winners of 2021.

Above: Grace Dent, winner of the 2021 Lakeland Book of the Year

Guardian and Masterchef food critic Grace Dent’s autobiography Hungry has been named the 2021 Lakeland Book of the Year.

The awards, supported by James Croppers of Burneside, have continued uninterrupted for 37 years (with the 2020 event taking place virtually) and celebrate the breathtaking variety of top-quality writing inspired by Cumbria and the Lake District. Open to any book set in or featuring the county and published

the previous year, previous winners have included Rory Stewart, James Rebanks and Alfred Wainwright.

THE 2021 WINNERS ARE: The Zefirellis Prize for People & Business: Hungry, Grace Dent The Bill Rollinson Prize for Landscapes and Traditions: Swimming Wild in the Lake District, Suzanna Cruickshank The Striding Edge Prize for Guides and Places: English Pastoral: An Inheritance, James Rebanks The Latitude Press Prize for Illustration and Presentation: Terry Abraham: Life On The Mountains, Terry Abraham The Bookends Prize for Literature & Poetry: Radical Wordsworth, Jonathan Bate The Gilpin Hotel and Lake Prize for Fiction: Dead Ringer, Nicola Martin

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resented this week at the Roundthorn Country House Hotel, the book, detailing the food personality’s life and experiences, impressed the judges with it’s honest and entertaining account of growing up in Carlisle.

Posting on Twitter, Carlisle-born Grace, who also received the The Zefirellis Prize for People & Business, said that she was “thrilled” to receive the prize for Hungry, which includes details of her early years growing up in Carlisle as part of a moving personal memoir.

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Above: Lakeland Book of the Year 2021 winners (L-R Nicola Martin, Fiona Armstrong, Terry Abraham, Eric Robson OBE, Helen Rebanks (accepting on behalf of James Rebanks), Michael McGregor (accepting on behalf of Jonathan Bate) and Hunter Davies OBE).

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10

Notable North-West Theatres

The North-West has long enjoyed a reputation for putting on a good show and can boast of some of the finest entertainment venues in the country.

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o celebrate the return of the traditional pantomime season, here is a list of ten of the region’s most iconic theatres.

BY MARGARET BRECKNELL

Today the Grand Theatre is owned by the Lancaster Footlights and is used as a venue for amateur drama productions, as well as playing host to touring comedians and music acts. An exciting project to build an impressive new foyer has recently been announced.

LANCASTER GRAND THEATRE Credit: Peter Bond/CC BY-SA 2.0

GRAND THEATRE, LANCASTER Lancaster’s historic Grand Theatre has been in near continuous use ever since it first opened its doors way back in 1782, making it the third oldest theatre in Britain.

Originally known simply as “The Theatre, Lancaster”, the venue was the brainchild of 18th-century theatre impresarios, Joseph Austin and Charles Edward Whitlock.

Whitlock was related by marriage to the day’s leading star, Sarah Siddons, and she performed on several occasions at the theatre, most notably, in 1795, in the role of Lady Macbeth. The Grand is one of several theatres across the country which is reputed to be haunted by Siddons’ ghost.

In 1897 the legendary Victorian theatre designer, Frank Matcham, was asked to redesign the entire stage and auditorium, but sadly his work was destroyed by a catastrophic fire in 1908. The renamed Grand Theatre reopened the following year with a completely new interior, although some traces of the original Georgian exterior survive to this day.

BLACKPOOL GRAND THEATRE Credit: Tony Hisgett/CC BY 2.0

GRAND THEATRE, BLACKPOOL Frank Matcham’s work on Lancaster’s Grand Theatre has been sadly lost, but his design for Blackpool’s Grand Theatre survives to this day.

In late 1893 local entrepreneur, Thomas Sergenson, commissioned Matcham to design a new theatre in

Blackpool on a site where he had staged circus performances for several years. Matcham enjoyed a deserved reputation as the UK’s pre-eminent theatre architect and was briefed

by Sergenson to build “the prettiest theatre in the land”.

The Grand was the first of Matcham’s theatres to use a groundbreaking “cantilever” design to support the tiers, thus allowing him to discontinue the use of pillars and ensure that every audience member had a clear view of the stage.

It is still regarded as one of the architect’s finest creations. In 1909 Sergenson sold the Grand at a considerable profit to the Blackpool Tower Company.

During its heyday the Grand hosted many of the leading variety stars of the day such as the North-West’s very own Gracie Fields and Arthur Askey, as well as theatrical greats like John Gielgud and Noel Coward. However, in 1972, following a decade or more of declining audiences, the Grand was threatened with demolition and was only saved for posterity because it had been Grade-II listed the previous year. After several years as a bingo hall, the Grand was finally reopened as a theatre in May 1981 when Prince Charles attended a Royal Gala Performance.

open its doors to audiences until eight years later. That very first concert in October 1921 featured a performance by the prestigious Halle Orchestra, who still play regularly there today.

The impressive neo-classical building was sympathetically restored in 1994 and many of its original features remain.

The list of acts to appear at King George’s Hall over the years reads like a Who’s Who of pop music. In 1963 The Beatles took star billing, on a night which also featured performances from Roy Orbison and Gerry and The Pacemakers. Another pop icon, David Bowie, also famously visited there in 1973 as part of his Ziggy Stardust tour. Other legendary acts to appear at the venue include Queen, Blondie, Status Quo, The Stranglers and Take That.

The battle to preserve the theatre’s treasured historic features remains ongoing, not helped recently by its prolonged closure because of the Covid pandemic. Let’s hope Blackpool’s Grand Theatre continues to offer audiences a magical theatrical experience for years to come.

MANCHESTER OPERA HOUSE & PALACE THEATRE Credit: estherpoon / Shutterstock.com

PALACE THEATRE, MANCHESTER

KING GEORGE’S HALL, BLACKBURN Credit: Tim Green/CC BY 2.0

KING GEORGE’S HALL, BLACKBURN Blackburn’s popular arts venue has just celebrated its centenary. Originally to be called Blackburn Public Halls, it took its current name when the then monarch, King George V, laid the foundation stone for the new building in July 1913. The venue’s completion was delayed because of World War I and the King George’s Hall did not officially

The Palace Theatre on Oxford Street first opened its doors as the “Manchester Palace of Varieties” in May 1891.

Designed by architect Alfred Darbyshire, the theatre cost a then considerable £40,000 to build. Frank Matcham worked on some later improvements to the building, before, in 1913, architect Bertie Crewe was placed in charge of a significant renovation project. The theatre reopened seven months later with a performance by escapologist Harry Houdini.

The Palace played host to many of the leading Music Hall acts of the early 20th century including Harry Lauder, Marie Lloyd and Vesta Tilley. The 1917 Christmas pantomime, Babes in the Wood, made headlines for featuring a set made entirely from Meccano. The theatre suffered a direct hit from a German bomb during the Manchester Blitz of 1940, but remained open throughout the wartime years.

The legendary Judy Garland appeared at the Palace Theatre in June 1951, with prices starting at just over three shillings per head for a seat in the Balcony. Charlie Chaplin, Laurel and Hardy and Danny Kaye are just some of the other cinematic greats to tread the boards there.

The theatre continues to host major musical touring productions, as well as comedy, ballet and drama, and enjoys a reputation today as one of the leading theatrical venues outside London.

The Opera House Theatre, one of the largest in the country, is located within Blackpool’s iconic Winter Gardens. The current theatre is the third to have been built on the site. Frank Matcham, the architect also responsible for Blackpool’s Grand Theatre, designed the original building, which was completed in 1889. This made way for a new and larger building in 1910, before this too was demolished in 1938. The present 3000-seat Opera House Theatre, designed in a modernist Art Deco style, opened the following year. On the first night George Formby performed in a revue called Turned Out Nice Again.

LIVERPOOL EMPIRE THEATRE Credit: cowardlion / Shutterstock.com

EMPIRE THEATRE, LIVERPOOL One of the city’s most notable landmarks, the current Liverpool Empire is the second theatre to be built at its present Lime Street location. The first theatre on the site opened in October 1866 and underwent several name changes before making way for the current building in the mid-1920s. The new Liverpool Empire Theatre created quite a stir when it opened its doors for the first time in 1925. Its innovative two-tier auditorium, consisting of just stalls and circle, was the largest of its kind in the UK and it also claimed to have the country’s then largest stage.

When Blackpool’s popularity as a family holiday resort was at its height, the Opera House was renowned for its summer spectaculars. In April 1955 the first Royal Variety Performance to be held outside London was staged at the venue. The list of performers included Morecambe-born Eric Bartholomew with his comedy partner Ernest Wiseman, better known as legendary comedy duo, Morecambe and Wise. Reginald Dixon played the theatre’s Wurlitzer organ, which is still regularly used today.

The Royal Variety Performance returned to the Opera House in 2009. Compered by Peter Kay, the show featured a host of modern-day greats including Michael Bublé, Lady Gaga, Bette Midler and Whoopi Goldberg.

Following in the footsteps of the internationally renowned Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby, a local group called the Quarrymen made their debut at the theatre in 1957. They subsequently performed at the venue on several further occasions under their new name of The Beatles. What proved to be the Fab Four’s final two shows in their native city took place at the Empire in December 1965. Over forty thousand people are said to have applied for tickets for the two shows.

In 2007, with the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh in attendance, the Empire staged the Royal Variety Performance, to commemorate Liverpool’s year as European Capital of Culture. Like Manchester’s Palace Theatre, the Liverpool Empire continues to enjoy a reputation today as one of the region’s premier arts venues.

LOWRY COMPLEX,SALFORD QUAYS

THE LOWRY, SALFORD The Queen officially opened The Lowry in October 2000.

The development of this fine theatre and gallery complex, which is situated on the waterfront at Salford Quays, formed part of a larger scheme to regenerate the rundown area around the former Salford Docks.

The Lowry houses three theatre spaces. The Lyric Theatre seats 1730 people and has the largest stage in the UK outside London’s West End. The Quays Theatre seats 466 people and there is also a smaller drama studio. From the start the complex has prided itself on presenting a wideranging programme covering many different aspects of the performing arts including drama, music, dance, comedy and children’s shows.

OPERA HOUSE THEATRE, BLACKPOOL Credit: R Haworth/CC BY-SA 3.0

OPERA HOUSE THEATRE, BLACKPOOL

The Lowry has staged many world and UK premieres and in 2011 hosted the Royal Variety Performance, when it returned to the North-West for the third time in four years.

Now into its third decade, the venue continues to provide a spectacular and varied schedule of performances.

Reading’s pre-existing Hexagon Theatre.

The first production at the Octagon was the world premiere of the play, Annie and Fanny, by local playwright, Bill Naughton. Best known today for his 1963 play, Alfie, which was subsequently made into a successful film starring Michael Caine, many of Naughton’s plays were first performed at the Octagon. When, in the early 1990s, the building was extended to add a studio theatre, the new annex was named in Naughton’s honour. Built with the help of public donations, the Octagon has always prided itself on supporting local northern talent. One of Bolton’s favourite sons, Peter Kay, even worked for a while in the theatre’s ticket office.

BURNLEY MECHANICS THEATRE

BURNLEY MECHANICS THEATRE

Bolton’s major cultural attraction has undergone a big redevelopment project over the last couple of years. With theatres across the region now reopen, audiences are now finally able to experience first-hand the Octagon’s new and improved facilities.

As the name suggests, the fine Grade II* listed building, in which this theatre is situated, started out life as a Mechanics Institute. Designed by Todmorden architect, James Green, it was opened in 1855 with the aim of providing the local adult workforce with a facility where they could continue their education and learn new technical skills. By the time the Mechanics Institute reached its centenary in the 1950s, it had lost its original educational purpose and had largely become a social club, so it was little surprise when it closed its doors for the final time in 1959.

The building was subsequently purchased by Burnley Council and leased to various leisure businesses before again facing closure in the late 1970s. The historic venue was, however, saved for posterity when, after a successful large scale refurbishment project, Burnley Mechanics was reopened as a theatre and arts centre in 1986. The Queen performed the official opening ceremony on a visit to the town.

Ever since, Burnley Mechanics has been a popular arts and entertainment venue, with a varied programme offering something for all the family. Burnley-born Sir Ian McKellen appeared at the Mechanics as part of his 80th birthday tour in 2019.

BOLTON’S OCTAGON THEATRE Credit: University of Salford/CC BY 2.0

OCTAGON THEATRE, BOLTON When the Octagon was officially opened by Princess Margaret in November 1967, it was the first professional theatre to be built in the North-West since World War II. Its name has proved a source of confusion from the start, as, the exterior of the glass-plated building is hexagonal in shape and it was only called the Octagon to avoid confusion with

CHORLEY LITTLE THEATRE Credit: Chorley Robbie/CC BY-SA 3.0

CHORLEY LITTLE THEATRE The building in which Chorley Little Theatre is now housed has been a popular entertainment venue ever since it first opened its doors in 1910 as Chorley’s first purpose-built cinema. The Empire Picture House, as it was then called, closed in the late 1950s and the building was subsequently acquired by Chorley’s Amateur Dramatic and Operatic Society.

Since 1960 the Society has staged at least six productions per year at the theatre until the Covid-19 pandemic brought a temporary halt to activities. Run entirely by volunteers, the theatre’s shows have won many awards over the years and some notable performers have gone on to enjoy highly successful film and theatre careers including Steve Pemberton and Jodie Prenger. The latter was the support act for Liverpool comedy legend, Ken Dodd, when he made a special performance at the theatre in 1999 to raise much-needed funds.

The building is also still used for film screenings, making it one of the oldest still operating purpose-built cinemas in the world.

Chorley is just one of several towns in the North-West to have its own Little Theatre. These venues are usually more compact and less well-known than their grander counterparts, but deserve to be recognised for the important part they play in making the arts accessible to their local communities.

Two Great Nations Separated By a Common Language

By Norman Harris

I was confidently going to attribute my title to Winston Churchill.

But in checking I had his words exactly right, Google says it may have originated from one of the two great Irish masters of the English language, Oscar Wilde, or George Bernard Shaw.

Perhaps Winnie said it under his breathe in WWII.

A

commonly known fact is the American dislike of using “U” in the words that we, the British, have taken from the French and retained that element of Latin beauty.

Americans retain some colourful “old English” language in the formal proceedings of Congress and the Courts, where the phraseology we have long since dropped still holds sway.

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In the South, the area which I visit more often, tea is sweet and accents are sweeter, summer starts in April, macaroni and cheese is a vegetable, front porches are wide and words are long, pecan pie is a staple, “Y’all” is the only proper noun, chicken is fried and comes with gravy, everybody is “darling” and some ones heart is always being “blessed”!

The area is also rich in idioms.

Strangely some are identical to ours, such as “till the cows come home” and “hold your horses” and “too big for his britches” But others defy all logic, “if I had my druthers” and “funny as all get out” and “heavens to Betsy.” But “hush your mouth” is so much nicer than “shut up” What always gets me and that is their use of two modal verbs together. Such as I “might would” or even “would could.” And the double negative is normal even luxurious ones “can’t never could.”

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Some words have differing meanings and we are all pretty familiar with some of them, such as if we walk on the pavement in the US we had better move to the sidewalk as soon as possible, as the pavement is, in fact, the roadway. And cars have their hoods at the front and trunks at the back.

But other words may not be so familiar, sailors may be confused that cleats in the US are worn on the feet to play baseball.

Gardeners may also be at sea in finding that dirt is soil and that a grass turf is a sod, and both are found in the yard of course. And strangely the gardener wears hose on his or her legs whilst wielding a weed-eater or strimmer to us.

Around the home, you cut off the light and mash the button on the dish washer. And a bathroom usually has four faucets and a tub.  www.lancmag.com

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 “Put up” is not an invitation for fisticuffs, but to store the shopping in the kitchen cupboards.

In some cases, the American expands the letters needed to convey an idea. Family Doctor for GP and Refuse collector for the bin men, who take away the trash.

For a country with very few domestic

servants, many people leave the service, but that refers to leaving the military. If you are ugly to someone it is not self-deprecation, but just that you told the person very frankly what you thought. Whilst showing ones behind means that you made a scene.

Visitations are always to the dead, who never even notice that you have come. Checks are still in regular use.

AMERICAN TO ENGLISH DICTIONARY

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I may be different, but I use about one cheque in 3 months or muns as a Southerner would say.

And of course, we all know that mail is post and a line is a queue, which Americans enjoy more than we do, as they do it whenever possible.

Then finally there is up throwing, which I will not explain further.

AND PHRASES Blowing up a storm

Dirt

Means

soil

Cut off

Means

switch off

Check

Means

Cheque

Faucet

Means

Tap

Family Doctor

Means

GP

Pretty as a peach

Hood

Means

Car bonnet

Full as a tick

Hose

Means

Socks or stockings

Talk at you later

Line

Means

Queue

Outin the light

Mail

Means

Post

If the creek don’t rise

Muns

Means

Months

Worn slap out.

Pavement

Means

Road surface

Well, I declare

Put up

Means

Put away/store

Hush your mouth

Railroad ties

Means

Sleepers

Well, I S’wanee

(left the) Service

Means

Left the military

Sidewalk

Means

Pavement

Sod

Means

Turf

Trash

Means

Refuse

Trunk

Means

Car boot

Tub

Means

Bath

Ugly

Means

Being very frank in talking to someone

Up chuck

Means

Throw up

Visitation

Means

Viewing a deceased

Yard

Means

garden

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Over yonder Madder than a wet hen I reckon

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Committing to New Year, New You

By Peter Pearson, Independent Financial Adviser, Tenet&You

After a turbulent two years as a result of the pandemic, we look to what 2022 will have in store for us. With the New Year traditionally signalling the time to make a change, there’s no better time to prioritise your financial wellbeing so that you’ll be prepared for life’s unexpected events.

H

owever, with research indicating that less than one in five (18%)1 say they plan to set a finance-related New Year’s resolution, here’s why you should be looking to put your finances at the top of your New Year agenda.

The impact of the pandemic on our finances The pandemic has clearly laid bare our fragility and vulnerabilities, presenting us with huge challenges on many different levels. It has also reinforced a number of key financial lessons, from the importance of budgeting and building up an emergency savings pot, to investment diversification and holding appropriate protection policies, acting almost like a personal furlough scheme for when you need it most.

In a nutshell, the pandemic has demonstrated the value of having sound financial planning strategies in place and the peace of mind such principles can give us. By getting into good financial habits, it is possible to ensure you are cushioned from the shock of any unforeseen event.

Getting organised – don’t put it off The best way to keep on top of your finances is to deal with them before you ‘need’ to. It can be all too easy to put things off and distract yourself with something else, however getting yourself financially organised in good time, can significantly benefit you later down the line. For instance, research from Aviva reveals that people in the UK are almost as likely to know the value of the contents of their wardrobe (34%) as they are to know the value of their pensions (38%)2, but given the importance of preparing for retirement, no matter your age, it’s best to take control and seek the support of an adviser who can build a financial plan for now and years to come.

What’s more, with the end of the 2021-22 tax year not that far away, now is the perfect time to review your ISA and JISA contributions thus far, in addition to any other tax-related issues. Whilst you could also benefit from taking a look at your pension arrangements and check you are adequately protected against any potential financial shocks.

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Here are some numbers worth knowing to help you get organised: • The Inheritance Tax nil-rate band and the residence nil-rate band remain frozen at £325,000 and £175,000, respectively, until April 2026 • The Capital Gains Tax annual exemption remains at £12,300 for individuals and £6,150 for most trusts • The pension Lifetime Allowance remains frozen at £1,073,100 until April 2026, and the Annual Allowance remains at £40,000 • The ISA (Individual Savings Account) allowance remains at £20,000 for the 2021-22 tax year • The JISA (Junior Individual Savings Account) allowance and the Child Trust Fund annual subscription limit remain at £9,000 for the 2021-22 tax year Financial and emotional wellbeing Another key point to take from last year has been the close connection between financial and emotional wellbeing; while a lack of financial stability typically leads to stress and anxiety, stable finances can provide mental calm.

Expert financial advice has also been highlighted to play a critical part in improving emotional wellbeing by increasing your financial confidence and resilience. This is according to research by insurer Royal London, which also found that clients who have an ongoing relationship with their adviser were nearly twice as likely to feel in control of their finances as those who didn’t.

Help at hand New Year is a time to take stock of our finances and consider how to plan for the year ahead and achieve a better financial future. Seeking professional advice with a company like Tenet&You is a vital step in achieving those objectives. So, get in touch and we can help you to develop sound plans to ensure you hit your short and long-term financial goals and ultimately provide a boost to both your financial and emotional wellbeing.

To get in touch with us if you have queries or would like to discuss any aspect of your finances with one of our experienced advisers, please do get in touch on 01772 787011 or come and visit us in person at Tenet&You, 327 Garstang Road, Fulwood, PR2 9UP. You can also find out more about Tenet&You on our website, www.tenetandyou.co.uk References: 1. Metro Bank, 2020

2. Aviva 2021

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Now open, 327 Garstang Road We’re delighted to open our North West hub, offering you the advice you need and help ensure your finances are in the best possible place to match your individual circumstances and aspirations and give you complete financial peace of mind.

Whether you’re thinking about planning for retirement, gifting some of your savings for a child/grandchild’s university fees, wedding, or house purchase, or even just wanting to protect your lifestyle from the unexpected, our expert team of advisers can advise you across all the different financial planning.

To speak with one of our advisers, either drop in and visit us at 327 Garstang Road, Fulwood, PR2 9UP, or call us on 01772 787011.

To celebrate our hub opening in Preston, we’re giving one lucky winner the chance to win a luxury Marks & Spencer hamper To enter, all you need to do is answer the following question:

How many advisers do we have at our Tenet&You hub in Preston?

P.S. You can find the answer on our website, www.tenetandyou.co.uk/preston.

To submit your answer, please visit www.tenetandyou.co.uk/lancashiremagazine.

For full terms and conditions, visit/click here www.tenetandyou.co.uk/lancashiremagazineterms.

The value of investments and the income from them may go down. You may not get back the original amount invested.

Anna Baker Skin Clinic

I

qualified with a Bachelor of Nursing from The University of Southampton in 2003 and began my journey into medical aesthetics in 2008 and have enjoyed a rewarding and diverse career to date. I’ve been privileged to have worked in a variety of settings and held many different clinical and teaching roles. One of the first positions that I held was a national role covering a number of aesthetic clinics across the U.K. called Destination Skin. This was a varied and interesting role working across different regions, managing the treatment & injectable diaries, as well as treating patients. This role took me across the country, from Glasgow, to Manchester, Northern Ireland, as well as the Southeast and Southwest. During this time, I gained my Independent Nurse Prescriber Qualification from De

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Montfort University in Leicester. This qualification allowed me to autonomously and comprehensively assess patients face-to-face in order to safely prescribe & administer prescription-only medicines, such as botulinum toxin (line-relaxing injections), as well as other medical aesthetic treatments.

Following this varied role, I embraced new opportunities and worked closely with a Consultant Plastic Surgeon based in the West Midlands. We set up 2 nurse-led medical aesthetic clinics-one of which was within The Nuffield Hospital in Cheltenham, which provided a varied treatment menu, including injectable treatments (dermal fillers & line relaxing injections), chemical peels, as well www.lancmag.com

as medical grade skincare-to name just a few. Alongside these aesthetic clinic roles, I began working part-time for Galderma UK, a global Pharmaceutical company, specialising in Dermatology treatments, among other their divisions. My specialised dermatology role entailed setting up and jointly managing 2 nurse-led topical Photodynamic Therapy Clinics to treat specific types of low-grade (nonmelanoma) skin cancers. This treatment involves using a light-activated cream applied to a skin lesion, which under red light at a particular wave-length becomes activated to selectively destroy the cancerous cells, without harming healthy surrounding skin. These clinics ran as part of the Dermatology teams at The Royal Surrey County Hospital in Guildford, as well as St Peter’s Hospital in Chertsey and helped to alleviate some of the high demand on NHS dermatology with regard to skin cancer waiting list times.

During the time I ran these services, I was humbled to be nominated for Dermatology Nurse of The Year in 2014 in The British Journal of Nursing Awards, and received runnerup commendation in recognition of the contribution of the PDT clinics to the dermatology departments. I also worked as part of a team of nurse-consultants in setting up a nurseled telephone support service for patients with rosacea to help with manage flare-ups and understand their condition and treatments.

and Europe. This was an incredible learning experience that enabled me to pursue further post-graduate study at Keele University in head & neck anatomy. I was able to use this qualification in the teaching courses to help fellow practitioners understand the anatomy in greater detail for safer outcomes with their aesthetic injectable treatments.

Teaching fellow practitioners has been a huge part of my aesthetic journey so far, and something I enjoy and find fulfilling. The first teaching role I held was setting up and assisting the Plastic Surgeon that I worked with in dissection-based teaching at The Royal College of Surgeons in London, as well as other Universities across the UK www.lancmag.com

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 75

Alongside this role, I have worked as a nurse trainer and held a clinical lead position for an award-winning aesthetic distributor, called Aesthetic Source since 2014.

This role has been varied and has encompassed teaching and supporting practitioners in using their cutting-edge clinical grade skincare lines & chemical peel systems.

This experience has enabled me to work as a Key Opinion Leader for a number of their award-winning brands, such as Neostrata, Skinbetter Science & Revision Skincare, and present to both national and international audiences.

I have also enjoyed an exciting journey working closely with the U.K. distributor (Ha-Derma) for the awardwinning skin bioremodelling treatment, Profhilo from IBSA since 2017 and train as part of their faculty for their portfolio, which also includes VISCODERM Hydrobooster skinbooster.

I have been a Board member for the largest professional association of Aesthetic nurses since 2015. The BACN (British Association of Cosmetic Nurses) work hard to be a community that strives to be the voice for aesthetic nurses to drive standards, education and support.

I have continued my post graduate studies, and to date have also gained a Nurse Educator qualification from the Nursing & Midwifery Council (NMC), as well as a PostGraduate Diploma in Clinical Education from King’s College London. I am privileged to have been awarded Aesthetic Nurse of The Year at the 2016 British Journal of Nursing Awards & Aesthetic Nurse of The Year at the Aesthetic Awards in 2017.

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I am absolutely delighted to bring my passion and expertise, along with cutting edge & award-winning technologies to Ancoats, Manchester. I am proud to be offering some of the best treatments supported by a strong safety profile, that deliver excellent results.

Some of my particular favourites are: Profhilo is a multi-award-winning skin bioremodelling treatment, which gives an ultrapure and lasting level of hydration to the face, neck and areas on the body. The quality of the skin and areas of laxity/crepiness can significantly improve through it’s unique firming and tightening benefits.

This novel hyaluronic acid injectable treatment contains no chemical agents and has been uniquely stabilised, thanks to it’s patented thermal technology to be able to stimulate 4 different types of collagen and renewed and stronger elastin fibres. The cumulative benefits mean that the skin improves in firmness and appearance in time, with maintenance treatments. This is an exceptionally popular treatment that benefits men & women and complements all other treatments & skincare regimens.

I am also offering next generation body contouring treatment, the Contour Master Slim. This non-invasive body contouring solution clinically proven to increase muscle and decrease fat. Targeted for stomach, buttocks, arms and legs, High Intensity Electromagnetic Muscle Training (HI-EMT) stimulates the muscle with intense focused electromagnetic fields to strengthen, firm and sculpt the body without discomfort or downtime. Just one 30-minute treatment causes 30,000 targeted muscle contractions for the ultimate no sweat workout. HI-EMT is the medical technology that is www.lancmag.com

used in aesthetic medicine, urology and gynaecology. It uses focused electro-magnetic fields with safe intensity levels.

Electro-magnetic field pass non-invasively through the body and interacts with motor neurons which subsequently trigger muscle contractions. The exposure of muscles to these contractions leads to muscle strengthening and growth.

using the advanced Observ technology forms the basis of the initial assessment to plan a bespoke & individualised treatment pathway.

To arrange a consultation via website, please visit www.annabakeraesthetics.uk

The Dermalux Tri-Wave MD is a ground-breaking medical device powered by proprietary LED technology for the most advanced phototherapeutic and photodynamic treatments in the global medical aesthetic market. The Tri-Wave MD delivers clinically proven Blue 415nm, Red 633nm and Near Infrared 830nm wavelengths with proven standalone results to treat a variety of indications. The Tri-Wave MD is Medically CE certified for Acne, Wound Healing, Psoriasis and Pain (Musculoskeletal). From the first treatment, Dermalux instantly boosts the complexion to restore vitality and glow. A treatment course offers cumulative benefits and can be targeted to specific skin concerns for the face and body with lasting and visible improvement. Our skin has the ability to absorb light energy and use it to stimulate or regulate essential cell processes. LED Phototherapy is the application of beneficial wavelengths from the visible and infrared part of the light spectrum which have proven skin enhancing benefits. Skin cells that are energised function better and can renew up to 200% faster accelerating regeneration and repair.

Skincare is an important & fundamental part of all patient’s journeys, and brings out the best of all treatments.

I am proud to work with some absolutely outstanding and multi-award-winning brands, such as Revision Skincare, Skinbetter Science, Cyspera & Neostrata. Skin analysis www.lancmag.com

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 77

Girls to Learn Positive Habits for Life adoption of an Oracy Project. Lastly, but possibly the most important habit of all, she said, was Celebration as without a sense of triumph and fun, the very best learning cannot take place.

Earlier in the school year, a new set of good habits for life were launched during a special assembly for all pupils at Hesketh House, Bolton School’s Junior Girls’ School. The eight tenets or ‘Hesketh House Habits’ as they will be known - will infuse all learning and will serve the girls both in school and throughout their lives.

D

eputy Head Mrs Holt employed a number of pupils in an interactive assembly as she introduced the Year 3 to Year 6 girls to the key characteristics aimed at encouraging good habits of behaviour. She spoke of the importance of Curiosity and girls’ need to ask questions as they strive to develop their knowledge and thinking. She commended girls for their already highly developed Creativity across all subjects and told them how this will be developed even further. She explained the meaning of the word Compassion, explaining how we need to connect with the world around us and show empathy and understanding. She cited the example of Phoebe in 78

Year 4 who, over the summer, had given 12 inches of her own hair in order that a wig could be made for someone who needed it. Another important habit, she told the Year 3 to 6 girls, was Collaboration: the ability to value teamwork and understand the importance of working effectively with others. She also advised how it is important to demonstrate a determined approach through Commitment and to welcome Challenge, both in lessons and in extra-curricular activities.

A critical habit too, she stated, is Communication – something that the girls having been working hard on in recent months through their

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Headteacher Mrs Laverick said: “We will be reinforcing the new Hesketh Habits across all areas of the girls’ learning. Our curriculum promotes creativity, curiosity and challenge and our extra-curricular programme encourages collaboration and commitment. Our pupils show compassion in their amazing charity work and we regularly celebrate the achievements of our pupil and encourage them to grow their talents.

By identifying these key areas and looking at them in increasing detail with the girls as the year progresses, we can build on the wonderful things happening already and recognise where we can all develop even further. Hopefully our Hesketh House Habits will be key building blocks supporting our pupils in all aspects of their education and beyond.

“The girls will be regularly reminded about these key characteristics by their teachers and through posters around the School. They will also be encouraged to collect stickers and to fill out a sticker sheet as they seek to exhibit each habit.”

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Give Y our Daughter the Very Best Start in Life At our Junior Girls’ School (ages 7-11) your daughter will benefit from:

A purposeful atmosphere which supports academic and extra-curricular success

Specialist teaching in languages, science, music and sport

Excellent facilities, including a laboratory, art studio, computer suite and library and access to the campus swimming pool, theatre and sports fields

A school which mixes tradition and innovation – pupils have made excellent use of their iPads during the pandemic

Outstanding extra-curricular opportunities in sport, music and drama

Exciting trips and visits, including to Patterdale Hall, our own outdoor centre in the Lake District

Excellent preparation for Senior School

Contact us to arrange your private tour with our Headteacher Telephone: 01204 434761 www.boltonschool.org/juniorgirls Twitter: @BoltonJnrGirls

A Little Gem in Chorley

As you walk towards the Interchange on Clifford Street, you will come across Woodchats Coffee Shop where you will find a warm and friendly welcome by Ruth Phillips and her team.

Cupcakes - so we make use of her skills for our special events such as our upcoming Elf Teas.

We source from local suppliers wherever possible and we make all our own jams and chutneys.

Whilst the shop is owned by myself, my parents and nieces and have played a significant part. My Mum and Dad help out and are known and loved by our regulars.

We have a range of retail items which align with coffee and food and nature - Local honey; Vibrant Teapots; Birchall Teas; Exchange Coffee; Unique gifts made by local artists.

W

We’re a community hub and support various local charities - Rosemere Cancer Foundation, Derian House and Inspire Youth Zone. Each month 5p from every hot drink and coffee sold is donated.

We are now fully in the run up to Christmas. Customers have already started to order their Christmas Cakes, Puddings and Mince Pies.

oodchats opened it’s welcoming doors in June 2012 by Ruth Phillips. Ruth was previously a National Marketing Director for a Professional Services Training Provider.

She says “I got fed up of the 70+ hour weeks and decided to have a break. I decided to take a punt on being my own boss, I love coffee, I love baking (and cooking), I love people and I knew how to manage a business, so set about finding the perfect premises for a coffee shop.

I live in Chorley so it’s an ideal commute.

Fi, my manager has been with me from the start, she started when she was at college on a part time basis.

She has worked full time with me since she graduated, and she is now part of our family. Char has been with us since 2017, she makes the most amazing celebration cakes for her own business - Char’s Chorley

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We also run a suspended coffee scheme with Chorley Help the Homeless. Our customers can purchase a virtual coffee, we give vouchers to Chorley Help the Homeless and they give these to their clients to exchange for a free coffee or tea.

All our cakes, cookies, and sweet things are homemade and baked by us on the premises. They contain no preservatives and are made with love (my Grandma once told me you can’t bake good cakes if you’re angry!)

We have a wide on choice our menu to suit all dietary requirements. Our vegan full breakfasts are very popular as is our home made gluten free bread.

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Our Christmas Scones are a firm favourite - they are studded with marzipan and flavoured with mincemeat. Another hit which we introduced last year was our Chocolate Salami - A festive chocolate fridge treat with a touch of decadent amaretto!

If anyone would like to receive an order form, please send me an email: ruth@woodchats.co.uk.

Wishing everyone a very happy and safe festive period.”

Chorley Interchange, Clifford Street, Chorley, Lancashire PR7 1AQ N 01257 230996 FP woodchats I @woodchatscoffeeshop www.woodchats.co.uk

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Creativity and wellbeing?

They’re the same thing!

Su Melville is both an artist and knitting teacher and loves helping people rekindle their creativity.

“The key to allowing yourself to create is to stop comparing yourself to others and enjoy the process – it’s a journey and everyone is at a different point on their own path.”

HOW DID YOU REKINDLE YOUR CREATIVITY? As a qualified accountant, IT specialist and Mum, I’ve witnessed and experienced a huge amount of stress.

It took a breakdown to make me take a rest and look at my life – that sounds very dramatic and at the time it was, but after talking to so many people I realise that it could’ve become a lot worse, I was fortunate to get help when I did. As I rested, I was advised to ‘do something you love’ – if you’ve ever been in this position you’ll know why my reaction was to laugh!

However, I remembered that when I was little I loved to colour in. When I was five, I wanted to ‘do colouring in’ for a living – it was that or longdistance lorry driving…

I picked up some old forgotten paints and painted a picture – I was absorbed for the time I was painting and I loved it! My neighbours watched my progress (thank heavens for a lack of net curtains) and asked if I did commissions…

WHAT MADE YOU BECOME A FULL-TIME ARTIST? For 15 years my little art business had paid for holidays, meals out and a new boiler. My kids had grown up earning pocket money from commissions on sales they made whilst helping me run stalls and had now left home to pursue their own careers (which didn’t involve cold days on windy stalls catching paintings!). I took a break from my art business to work an assignment in the states and whilst there I met some amazing mentors who encouraged me to follow my heart. I took a deep breath and quit the day job to teach others how to rekindle their creativity and to create more of my own work. It was the scariest, most exciting thing ever!

HOW DID COVID AFFECT YOUR NEW BUSINESS? Covid hit just as I set up my first workshops – timing was not great – my fledgling business skidded to a halt just as it started. However, I do love a challenge and thinking about how to create workshops without being able to share materials caused me to create Pastel Art Kits.

the Lancashire Wildlife Trust. I now have eleven kits available! I also have all the tutorials on a Patreon channel so that if you have pastels already you can have a go at the tutorials without buying a kit.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR SU MELVILLE? I love learning, I believe it’s a vital component to wellbeing so I’m pursuing my love for oil paints and fascination of people by learning classical portraiture at The Realist Academy in Warrington – commissions taken soon! The Oils are also spilling into my wildlife painting and I’m regularly exhibiting at Technically Brilliant Gallery in Warrington. I also help other creatives cost their work through a facebook group ‘Costing for Creatives’ – you can’t erase all that accountancy training!

AND THE KNITTING? This article isn’t long enough!

Suffice to say I never do things by half… I love to share my knowledge so if you would love to learn to knit I teach at Cedar Farms in Mawdesley every Tuesday afternoon!

I deliberately chose to include professional materials so that everyone could get the best results from their creations, along with an online tutorial (that was a learning curve!). I’m also able to give back by donating £1 from each kit to a named charity – all the wildlife boxes include a donation to

D www.SuMelville.com | E Su@SuMelville.com | N 07799 548580 F SuMelvilleArt | I SuMelvilleArt | SuMelvilleArt

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started painting furniture about 10 years ago when I decided to paint some old pine drawers I had in my bedroom and I was instantly hooked!

I have a genuine love of all things old and being able to turn forgotten, old, brown furniture in to beautiful pieces again really ignited something in me.

I’m incredibly grateful that I’ve been able to turn my passion in to a business.

My second daughter was born almost 5 years ago and being able to juggle my job and family life was looking unlikely, not to mention childcare costs! I started by selling small pieces of furniture locally whilst navigating sleepless nights and nappies.

I had a good response to my pieces and I started to look for platforms to sell on which then led to me building my own website. I had never done anything techy before and it was quite a challenge but I am proud of achieving it by myself. I started to offer Nationwide delivery on my pieces and I have sent pieces all over the UK from the Scottish Highlands to the Cornish coast!

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As my business developed so did my style and I quickly moved away from the ‘shabby chic’ look that was fashionable when I started and started to use darker colours and sleeker finishes with touches of metallic.

In search of the more unique colours I found Wise Owl Paint, an American brand with an eco-friendly ethos. On discovering there was only one stockist in the UK I decided to go ahead and start stocking the paint.

Wise Owl Paint ticks all the boxes for me with 2 types of paint to choose from and a unique colour palette the business is run by 2 best friends in Michigan with a ‘green’ focus.

I have since added other products to my line up including the fabulous British Cornish Milk Mineral Paint as well as brushes and stencils. My most recent addition is Posh Chalk Metallic Pigments because I just cannot resist adding some sparkle to my pieces.

Alongside my furniture I also make lampshades. All my lampshades are hand sewn and fully lined each taking many hours to make. I love sumptuous velvets with elaborate patterns teamed with fringes and tassels they are ideal for maximalist interiors.

So why Thirteen?

I named my business ‘Thirteen’ as the number keeps coming in to my life in a positive way. Mat, my husband, and I met on the 13th, our first home together was number 13, our daughter was born on the 13th and we also married on the 13th!

F Thirteen Furniture Co I thirteen_furniture_co D www.thirteenfurniture.co.uk

I try to paint my pieces sympathetically in keeping with their original style. If there is a gorgeous wood grain then I will restore it rather than paint it.

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We opened our doors in June 2012 and have built up a really loyal customer base. Our customers have literally made friends within the shop! Our location is perfect for those using public transport.

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We Proudly Support the Rosemere Cancer Foundation

WOODCHATS COFFEE SHOP Chorley Interchange, Clifford Street, Chorley, Lancashire PR7 1AQ N 01257 230996 FP woodchats I @woodchatscoffeeshop www.woodchats.co.uk

Award Winning Artist Specialising in Commissions and Art Tuition. Creator of the Pastel Art Kit.

F Thirteen Furniture Co I thirteen_furniture_co D www.thirteenfurniture.co.uk

We will make sure you are visible online and drive success from your online marketing Our goal is to make your business more successful using tried and tested digital marketing techniques that fit in with your business plans and goals: ✔ SEARCH ENGINE OPTIMISATION ✔ SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT ✔ CONTENT WRITING ✔ WEBSITE DESIGN ✔ LOCAL SEO

Artist Workshops • Animals and People Commissions Art Kit Tutorials • Exclusive Pastel Art Kits • Corporate Wellness Workshops • Knitting Classes and Workshops E Su@SuMelville.com | N 07799 548580 FI SuMelvilleArt | D www.SuMelville.com

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We can help you become noticeable online and help drive success from your online marketing.

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one well, digital marketing will increase your brand awareness, your rankings on search engines and ultimately, gain you more customers and make you more profit! With over 20 years of experience in digital marketing, Madeline Spear knew this and saw how unsuspecting businesses would be baffled into submission by technical talk. She realised that all too often, Digital Marketing Agencies would promise the earth, but deliver dust. Madeline was determined to change that and make her own agency different. That’s why in 2012, she founded Shine On Digital.

Despite what some digital marketing agencies might suggest, there is no ‘one size fits all’ template for successful digital marketing, and no magic formula to make you appear as number one on the first page of Google. Instead, Shine On Digital takes the time to understand your business goals then helps you to reach them.

Digital Marketing has a reputation as a bit of a dark art that is all mysterious algorithms and technical jargon but that isn’t the case at all!

was recently asked to join the Advisory Group for the Association of Festival Organisers and is also the Chair and driving force behind the AFO Climate Action Group, which is something she’s incredibly passionate about.

A long-standing client, B&E Boys, highlighted why they love working with Shine On Digital: “B&E Boys first turned to Shine on Digital for their expertise in promoting businesses on various social media platforms, as well as assisting us with our own website blog. Due to the proactive way, clarity and honesty in how Shine On work when providing these services we were quick to ask for help with the provision of new websites and general website maintenance.”

Shine On Digital offers a range of digital marketing services including website design and management and content creation. They can also improve your local SEO leading to more footfall, sales and enquiries and manage your social media, freeing up your time and energy, to do what you do best; run your own business.

Shine On Digital’s goal is to help you make your business more successful using tried and tested digital marketing techniques that fit in with your business plans and goals. As Madeline herself explains: “The ethos of Shine on Digital is to be completely open and honest. With us, there’s no over-promising or under-delivering.

We take the time to understand what our client wants and create a plan to achieve it. Regular communication and building great relationships between Shine On Digital and our clients is at the heart of what we do.”

In the 9 years since setting up Shine on Digital, Madeline has successfully worked with a number of sectors, including music festivals and events companies. She was delighted when she

N 01706 482017 E info@shineondigital.co.uk F ShineOnDigitalUK T shineondigital D www.shineondigital.co.uk

Always aiming to being open and honest, with us there is no over-promising or under-delivering.

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Leave emotional eating and guilt behind you and break free of food dependency with Anti - Diet Empowerment Coach, Margaret.

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Scan QR code to learn more

I have had a torrid relationship with food all through my life, as a teen I was bullied at school and named ‘Thunder Thighs’ by girls who I thought were my friends. Nothing could have been further from the truth as I was often taunted, shouted at, spat at as well as being psychologically bullied.

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t 14 I took drastic action where for a year I only ate bread and drank water, it worked! I lost weight – weight that I didn’t need to lose as I plummeted to 7 stone. I am 5ft 7 now and wasn’t much shorter then so I was painfully thin and anorexic. But I fitted with the in crowd, I was thin, had long hair, not bad looking and was easily to manipulate as I was constantly tired.

I was brought out of this ‘slumber’ by a sudden shock, at 15 ½ my mum was diagnosed with Lupus, an autoimmune disease, and here started my life-long studying of gut health

and the immune system. Back then it was trips to the library as this was before the internet and there wasn’t that much known about Lupus and autoimmune diseases in 1990.

My life stabilised at this point I got my head into the books and went onto A-levels and college years to study Business and Information Technology.

I started going to the gym and got obsessed, I was doing 3-4 hours per day and my food, I watched like a hawk, I wanted to be in optimum health so there was no chance of me developing my mum’s condition which could be passed down from mother to daughter.

August 1999 – I’ll never forget it My Dad had took early retirement for 25 years of working at British Gas, he had a part time job so he wasn’t getting too much under my Mum’s feet! Early August he went to the doctors complaining of stomach pain, from here he was requested to go to A&E, within hours our whole world had changed, My Dad was told he had cancer and that is was spreading, we were all floored, but were hopeful in the fact he was told he had a number years to live and the cancer could be managed. 21st August 1999 my Dad, my rock, passed away I was destroyed. I couldn’t cope and very quickly turned to food and alcohol, binging on both to numb the pain of losing the one man I could forever trust.

A year or so later I moved down to Liverpool to be with my new partner, I can see now that I was running away from my family and the grief I was feeling, I just couldn’t cope being around them at that time. I had never lost such an important person in my life and I didn’t know how to get round it, to be honest I am not sure if I ever did, I cope with his loss but still feel like a hole is there.

My new partner worked long hours so I was left in the evening, alone, in a strange city with no close friends at the time, dealing with a huge loss and far away from home, my binge eating got worse and worse, food was my

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new friend. It comforted me, gave me escape and made me feel everything would be OK – temporally. I was no longer going to the gym so my weight went up and up, I put on over 5 stone very quickly and HATED what I saw in the mirror. To me I was a failure, my family would be disgusted by how I looked, well that’s what I thought anyway, I had let myself and them down.

I tried both Weight Watchers and Slimming World and didn’t like either.

I felt that is was a competition of who can lose the most weight. If you lost, great but if your weight stayed the same or increased, you were named and shamed, here I was being bullied again and no-one was helping with the root cause of why I was binge eating.

I decided to take actions into my own hands, I started to see a nutritionist who got me to understand what foods would be best for me at certain times of the day to keep me fuller longer and energised, so I wasn’t reaching as often for my comfort foods. I also took up running, the best thing ever for me as it got me to process my thoughts and if I was ever in a bad mood, sprinting like hell on the last 500 metres of a run really did the trick!

Life was good, I was seeing my family regularly, I was still with my partner I had moved to Liverpool for and we were engaged. I had moved up in my career ladder, working at large events and festivals and dealing with the access of customers, staff, performers, press, VIP’s etc. etc. I loved it, even if it was hellish long hours!

My 40th was looming and things were not going so well between me and my husband (after 12 years we got married and thought this was our forever). Later that year, we went on a make or break holiday to see if our relationship was salvageable, we came back talking of splitting for good. I moved out of our home and into my friends flat where I had to fit my life into one room. I couldn’t

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concentrate, I had a constant whirring mind that plummeted into depression, I lost my directors job and quickly spiralled down and down where my relationship with food took on a different guise as I believed I didn’t deserve to eat. Days could go by and all I wanted to do was sleep, food was not my friend as it was there to nourish and I didn’t want to be nourished, I wanted to pass away quietly.

Two of my very closest friends saw what was happening to me a suggested that I went to see a councillor, I don’t know about you but it’s not often you may listen to friends, but after about the fifth time of suggesting I’m glad I did as I honestly don’t think I would be here today telling my story. Bit by bit, step by step I could see myself coming back, my eating got better and so did my depression. A few months later in a session my councillor gave me a decision, to go back to a high powered directors role, full of stress and long hours or choose a new road and follow my passion.

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I am glad to say I followed my passion, food had always been a challenge to me and I wanted to be finally at peace with it and be able to support other people on that journey too. I trained to be an Anti - Diet Empowerment coach where I marry this with over 30 years of gut health knowledge.

It took me a few years to understand that my body image also needed work as my first attempt at my business didn’t go so well, I did have clients but I didn’t feel that I was in the right headspace to be able to coach them to never need diet again.

So my story took one more dramatic turn, which I am sure won’t be the last. In May 2020 my wonderful Mum passed away after a battle with mixed dementia. She was my inspiration to re-brand and re-launch my company as Naturally Empowered Health where I coach women and now pre-teen/ teens from using food as a crutch or coping mechanism to

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relieve stress, comfort, or distract us from what is the root cause. I build in my gut health knowledge so when a client has successfully reached food freedom, their gut health is restored and optimum health is theirs to own.

No more diets or discomfort, just peace with food and life.

I offer coaching either one to one where we focus on getting to the root cause, understanding and dealing with triggers, giving you the tools to intuitively understand when it is best for you to eat and what to eat at that time to gain fullness and natural energy so you’re snacking is no longer an issue. We work together on your body image and body respect so you feel empowered and strong.

Coaching where diets can be ditched forever.

I have a ‘Fresh Start’ membership where over just 12 months women are able to walk away from their emotional eating triggers for good.

Each lady receives a monthly

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workbook to uncover, understand and make peace with different aspects that contribute to our relationship with food and our body.

The membership also includes a 15 minute coaching call with me each month where we get results fast, an ask the expert session where an expert gives their advice in their expertise when it comes to emotional eating and gut health. A recorded guided meditation each week and a WhatsApp group where each lady in membership is included for support and accountability.

I now also have a book called True Taste on sale, which is full of recipes that my clients love and a section on beginning your own journey on intuitive eating, this is available on my website and Amazon.

So what does the future hold? I wish to expand my one to one coaching to support as many women and teens onto food freedom as possible, this is the very beating heart of my business.

By doing this I am now expanding into offering wellness sessions for businesses who wish to raise their

BREAK FREE FROM THE DIET CYCLE

employee awareness of how food can effect our focus, our stress levels, our emotions, our moods and hormones and what we can each do to improve our focus and productivity so stress is lowered and we know which food can help and which can hinder when it comes to our own bodies and minds.

I am also calling on schools where I offer workshops where we discuss the impact of food and body image so that pupils are better equipped to recognise triggers and how to work past them and feel secure and happy in their own skin.

It’s my aim to support women and teens to be able to move away from experiencing similar anxieties and stress with food as I, so along with me they can truly experience a life where food is no longeremotional in control of them and gu Leave eating but they are in charge of food, and behind you and break free of their lives.

dependency with Anti - Diet Empowerment Coach, Margar

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THE KEY TO IMPROVING YOUR HEALTH IT ALL STARTS WITH THE RIGHT APPROACH

Catherine Dean is a Nutrition & Lifestyle Coach supporting women feel better, have more energy and ditch diets. Her approach to health and wellbeing isn’t about quick fixes or fad diets. It’s about helping you to create healthy habits that fit around your busy life, make a real difference and, most importantly, last in the long term.

A common myth is that in order to improve our health we have to start eating foods that we don’t enjoy and give up all the foods we love. We tell ourselves that we can’t have certain foods because they are bad for us, are unhealthy or will make us put on weight. But weight gain doesn’t happen as a result of eating just one food.

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The problem with using the word “can’t” is that we put ourselves into a lack mentality. When we are in a lack mentality, we focus on what we can’t have, on foods that are bad for us or that we have labelled as unhealthy. When we restrict ourselves in this way it can lead to feelings of guilt or shame when we do eat the foods we’ve told ourselves we “can’t” have. This negative mindset can affect the way we feel about ourselves and actually derail our efforts to improve our health.

A lack mentality is when we focus on all the things we can’t have. It’s that deprive, restrict diet mentality. If you have a lack mentality when it comes to improving your health, you might find yourself: • Saying I can’t have...

• Wishing you could eat certain foods • Focusing on the foods you “can’t” eat • Concentrating on the number on the scales • Describing foods as good or bad • Exercising purely as a way to burn calories www.lancmag.com

This way of thinking can leave us feeling fed up, tired and frustrated. It isn’t the answer to creating healthy habits that last in the long-term.

A different approach is to focus on an abundance mindset; believing that there is always more to go around. An abundance mindset means improving your health isn’t about cutting out your favourite foods, but an opportunity to eat more colourful, interesting, varied and nutritious foods. Instead of focusing on what you “can’t” have, find nutrient dense foods you love and focus on including more of those in your diet. Nutrient dense foods contain high levels of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients compared to the amount of calories they provide. Nutrient dense foods include fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, eggs, oily fish and beans. Including more nutrient rich foods means we are more likely to get the vitamins and minerals we need from our diet.

FOCUS ON THE POSITIVES When we focus on an abundance mindset, taking a positive approach and focusing on what we do have, it moves us away from the negative mindset and can actually help us when we’re trying to improve our health. Increasing the colour and variety in our diets and noticing how we feel when we’ve eaten those nutrient rich foods can keep us focused on the positives.

An abundance mentality, where we focus on taking steps to make ourselves feel better can actually make improving our health a whole lot easier.

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When you approach changes to your health with an abundance mindset, you might find yourself: • Eating foods that you enjoy and make you feel good • Knowing that all foods have a place in a balanced diet • Moving your body as a celebration of what your body can do • Exercising to feel more energised and confident FOUR TIPS TO HELP YOU INCREASE THE ABUNDANCE IN YOUR DIET: Use herbs and spices to flavour your foods. They are an easy way to make your meals more interesting, varied and full of flavour while also providing health benefits.

Add more colour to your diet by including more vegetables.

At each meal time ask, “How could I add one more vegetable to this dish?” Vegetables are low in calories, but cram packed with vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients.

Increase variety in your diet. You can do this by adding beans and legumes to stews, soups and curries. Chickpeas, lentils, kidney beans, cannellini beans, black beans just to name a few. They are a quick, easy and cheap way to add more texture and variety to your dishes. They also contain plant protein and plenty of fibre.

Support your gut healthy. One way that you can do this is by eating more pro-biotic foods.

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Fermented foods such as yoghurt, kefir, kombucha, kimchi and sauerkraut contain bacteria that is beneficial for our gut health.

Eating more nutrient rich foods on a regular basis, can help you to feel better, have more energy, help you get a better night’s sleep and so much more.

Adopting an abundance mentality helps us to move away from the thoughts that punishing ourselves in the gym or depriving ourselves of our favourite foods is the only way to improve our health. It helps us be kinder and more compassionate towards ourselves. This approach is the best way to help us to take better care of ourselves and make meaningful, lasting and positive changes to our health.

If you’re ready to ditch diets, feel less stressed and have more energy a Nutrition & Coach could be exactly what you’re looking for.

To find out how fully personalised nutrition coaching could help you to achieve your health and weight loss goals, head to: www.catherinedeancoaching.co.uk Have a nutrition question that you’d like to be answered in a future article?

Send your questions to Catherine at: info@catherinedeancoaching.co.uk

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Sew Confident

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awn is the Director and Owner of Sew Confident Chorley, a wife and mum to two teenagers. From a young age she was always very creative, knitting, crafting and sewing. It wasn’t until her daughter started talking GCSE options and careers that she decided to leave a safe, secure job and take the plunge into self-employment and be her own boss! Dawn wanted to be happy, share her passion for creating and do a job she loved!

After hours of researching career ideas, she discovered Sew Confident. Started in Glasgow in 2012 by a talented young Scottish entrepreneur called Jenny McCreary, it is the only sewing tuition franchise in the UK with 2 in Scotland.

Dawn opened the first Sew Confident studio in England in July 2019. It’s now been over 2 years and Dawn has no regrets and is a firm believer in doing what makes you happy “I love my job; it is hard work, but it is so much fun and so rewarding.” Says Dawn.

Classes range from beginners to advanced with a studio full of sewing machines and equipment.

They have beginners sewing, dressmaking, overlocker, quilting, knitting, crochet, hand embroidery and soft furnishing classes. They also run seasonal classes which are very popular, so right now they are gearing up for Christmas with wreath making, Christmas quilted stockings and much more. During

lockdown Dawn became the ‘arm knitting queen’ teaching people virtually via zoom how to arm knit super cosy chunky blankets in just 2 hours!

Sew Confident cater for everyone who wants to try their hand at a new hobby or improve their creative skills.

You can also find a small haberdashery area in the studio selling fabric, patterns, threads etc. You can get advice and buy sewing machines and book in for a 1-2-1 lesson with Dawn or one of the other tutors if you want.

The experience does not end after your class, Sew Confident has some great community ‘Sewcial’ groups on Facebook for support and chat before and after classes too.

Sewing and being creative is so therapeutic, anyone can learn to sew and should give it a try; sometimes you just need a little bit of confidence and some reassurance. Some people like yoga and meditation, but did you know sewing can put you in a meditative state? People lead such busy, stressful lives these days, you need to find something you enjoy and allow yourself ‘me time’ and ‘down time’ to improve your wellbeing.

Dawn shows you CAN turn a hobby into a business and make a living from it. The Covid-19 pandemic has given people time to reflect on life and we are more aware than ever of people’s struggles with mental health, so it is vital you have something to focus on to take you away from the stresses of everyday life.

If you want to give their classes a go then now is the time to get in touch!

You really need to make time for You! Dawn is happy to discuss any Sew Confident classes, collaborations, private parties or 121’s, you can get in touch using any of the below: I @sewconfidentdawn F @sewconfidentchorley E dawn@sewconfident.co.uk L sewconfidentdawn sewconfident.co.uk/chorley-classes/ You can get 10% off your first booking using the discount code LANCSMAG10

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Independent Member

Christine Worthington, Wellness Coach, loves to help people with their health and wellbeing, incorporating science-backed products from Herbalife Nutrition.

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anuary - often thought of as a time for a new start. Instead of thinking resolutions - think about a realistic goal. You can of course set goals any time.

Ask yourself – how healthy do you want to be?

Becoming the best version of you is more than just a number on the scales. It’s different for everyone too.

Whether it’s your health, happiness, confidence or fitness – it starts with setting your goals.

• What are your fitness goals? Is your ultimate goal a lean and toned physique? Are you focusing on your diet before, during and after exercise?

• What are your weight goals?

Reaching a healthy weight can completely change your lifestyle, and while it does require a little bit of willpower, you can still enjoy the flavours you love.

• Could you benefit from a healthier lifestyle? A healthy and active

lifestyle is fuelled by good nutrition.

The way you nurture your body, reflects in your general welfare and daily stamina.

A simple formula to achieve your goals is 80/20 – 80% nutrition – start with an ideal breakfast 20% exercise – what do you currently do? Can you move more? Then add 100% mindset – how you feel and what you focus on will get you the best results. Having a goal gets you started, your positive mindset keeps you motivated to achieve it.

WHAT CUSTOMERS SAY: ”When I switched to the Herbalife Ideal Breakfast my energy levels increased significantly” “I find I make better food choices throughout the day” “This ideal breakfast is so quick and convenient – I never skip breakfast now”

Herbalife Nutrition provides delicious and nutritious products to support your healthy, active lifestyle.

There’s something for everyone • Health and Wellness • Weight Management

Start with a Herbalife Nutrition Ideal Breakfast to ensure you have a more balanced overall diet, an increased vitamin and minerals intake and you will be more likely to meet your five portions of fruit and vegetables a day.

An ideal breakfast helps you reach the recommended daily calorie intake.

Christine has a range of ways to support you, so whatever suits you and your busy lifestyle it can definitely work. That’s the bonus of what she does and why it’s so successful – you are not just consuming quality products you get a personal coach to support you!

Why not meet up – in person or virtually – to have a chat about your wellness goals? You can complete a FREE wellness evaluation – just visit https://cworthington.goherbalife.com Looking after your inside body is important – looking after the outside is also important and the SKIN range will help you do that, along with the Collagen Skin Booster beauty drink.

Christine is here to help you be the best version of you!

N 07835 918644 E cmworthington@btinternet.com www.worthingtoncoaching.co.uk

• Keeping fit/looking good • Sports Performance

All references to weight management relate to the Herbalife Nutrition weight management programme which includes, amongst other things, a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate daily fluid intake, nutritional supplementation where required and appropriate rest. Individual results will vary.

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Be Your Best!

Improve your health, wellbeing & vitality

Complete a FREE Wellness Profile here: https://cworthington.goherbalife.com Why not try an ideal breakfast for six days?

Feel the difference!

N 07835 918644

Where fashion is fun and style comes as standard

Financial Planning Advice • Wealth Management Pensions • Investments • Mortgages • Life Cover

www.haworthsfs.co.uk Linda started Freckle Boutique 7 years ago to bring back the fun of fashion for women of all ages and sizes.

Suite 7, The Globe Centre, St James Square Accrington, Lancashire, BB5 0RE

Why not visit the website and have a great shopping experience!

Tel: 01254 945945

Visit: freckle.boutique Email: info@freckle.boutique

enquiries@haworthsfs.co.uk

New Year Ready Healthy Mind, Body AND Finances?

At the start of each new year, we reflect on the past year and what we want to do better or change. And after indulging in all the Christmas goodies a detox and new health and fitness regime tends to be at the top of most of our to do lists.

B

ut how about your finances? Do they need a health check too to make sure you and your loved ones can have a bright healthy future safe in the knowledge your financial goals are being met, or nicely on the way?

Financial Wellbeing is something close to our hearts here at Haworths Financial Services. We enjoy nothing more than helping our clients achieve their goals and watch them enjoy the other important things in life such as their families, creating a thriving business doing what they love and of course making the most of their downtime. Whilst we take care of the bit in the background that makes it all happen – the Financial Planning.

So, whether it’s a review of your pensions or retirement options, making your savings and investments work harder, tax planning or life, health, and income protection we can help!

The last two years have not been easy and with the looming interest rate increases and tax rate increases, we look at how this will impact your plans. Making use of the available tax allowances to reduce the impact of these changes is a vital part of what we do.

We really get to know our clients and what makes them 100

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tick. We then put a plan together that is bespoke to each individual, as no one situation or business is the same.

We are proud to boast a team of highly qualified Planners including specialists in technical pension transfers, mortgage advice, corporate financial planning and later life planning, and everything in between.

Our Founder, John McGregor, started the financial planning team at Haworths Accountants in Accrington in 1985 and in 2019 branched off from the accountants and now heads a very successful standalone business.

John has a wealth of experience and has developed the business to last the test of time and secure long-term working relationships for every single one of Haworths clients, who are of course at the heart of what we do.

Over the last two years we have extended our reach to cover Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Yorkshire and beyond, and our virtual meeting offering means we can provide the same high level of service to clients all over the country.

Get in touch for a complimentary New Year financial health check and see if we can help you get on your way to a bright and financially secure future.

Transferring out of a Final Salary scheme is unlikely to be in the best interests of most people.

HAWORTHS FINANCIAL SERVICES LTD M Suite 7, The Globe Centre St James Square, Accrington BB5 0RE N 01254 945945 E enquiries@haworthsfs.co.uk www.lancmag.com

Freckle Boutique

the things you did in your twenties!

We try to get the message across that even though we don’t have perfect bodies we can still look good and enjoy fashion. If we can do it, so can everyone else.”

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um dancing whilst drinking a large glass of gin has proved the making of local boutique owner Linda Monk. “It began as just something to do at the beginning of our Live Fashion sessions on Facebook as we were waiting for viewers to log on, but now it’s my favourite bit!” She laughs.

“Freckle Fursday” a name coined by one of the many fans (Or Frecklettes as they are known) takes place every Thursday at 7:30pm live on social media. Linda and her friend Rebecca Dempster, the other half of Freckle Fursday, showcase all the new fashions that have arrived in store each week with a huge emphasis on fun. Many shows also feature a guest appearance from Ted, Rebecca’s beloved daschund.

It’s been the most amazing year for Lancashire boutique owner, Linda Monk. Her shop Freckle Boutique has bucked the trend of many larger and more established retail companies by not only surviving during the pandemic but actually thriving.

“The past twelve months have been full of massive changes for us as a business. The layout of the shop itself has changed to give our customers more space so they can browse feeling secure and safe.

There are three new members of staff to cope with the growth of the business and we also have a shiny new website!“

“He often steals the show but everyone loves him especially when runs off with a scarf or a necklace.

Rebecca and I both love clothes and we love having fun. It’s so important to us as women over 50 that we show other women that being more mature doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy all 102

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Like many retail businesses, Freckle embraced the concept of online shopping and quickly gained a large number of new customers from all over the country.

“It’s been truly phenomenal“ says Linda.

When asked why she thinks her boutique has been so successful Linda responds emphatically that it’s all down to her customers.

“They have been so incredibly supportive and loyal through this.

Many of my fellow business owners were worried when we reopened back in April that our customers wouldn’t come back, but they have and I am so grateful.

They have not only come back but they have made an extra effort to support us as small local businesses.

That is something special. So if I can give something back to them, even if it is just a display of my incredibly embarrassing dancing, then I will do it with a very happy heart.”

www.Freckle.Boutique info@freckle.boutique

www.lancmag.com

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OLDHAM

By Megha Seth When holidays are just around the corner, one has an endless list of things that they want to tick off before settling into a life full of duties and responsibilities.

Whether you choose to take a walk along the Standedge Tunnel or a boat ride through it, being spellbound is inevitable. The tunnel is the highest, deepest, longest, and oldest in Britain.

ldham is a perfect place for escapades, be it a short impromptu trip with friends and family, or a stop along the way for your long holiday haul.

One of the most prominent and well-established theatres in New Manchester, the Oldham Coliseum Theatre dates back to 1885. A treasure for theatre and performing arts lovers, capture the essence of one of the oldest theatres still operating in Britain even today. With original in-house productions that are presented at the theatre itself, on tours and online, watch artists bare out their soul onstage. Head to the Oldham Coliseum Theatre to soak in the most vibrant regional theatre experience.

O

Situated in Greater Manchester, Oldham is located amid the Pennines, between two rivers, Irk and Medlock. Known predominantly for its textiles and mills that operated 24 hours a day, in the 19th century, Oldham is a town that truly flourished with the Industrial Revolution.

Today, Oldham is mainly a residential town but its charm and history remain as intact as ever.

With a fusion of fun and learning, the town has various picturesque postcard views to offer to its visitors.

PLACES TO VISIT IN OLDHAM We have carefully hand-picked the top attractions and underrated gems of Oldham that one ought to visit to capture the essence of this charming Victorian town.

Huddersfield Narrow Canal The Huddersfield Narrow Canal has a plethora of scenic views to offer along the way, from historic mills to industrial buildings, the rolling hills to the lush tranquil countryside. The canal in itself has a number of activities that one can do.

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Oldham Coliseum Theatre

Gallery Oldham Gallery Oldham is a visual treat for tourists and locals alike, that too free of cost! A public art gallery with several exhibitions and workshops, the gallery fuses local museum and gallery services. From Oldham’s local and social history to touring artwork, contemporary art, and many more, there is also a section of exquisite studio pottery and ceramics display.

It might take up an entire day to check out the vast collections of displays at the gallery. More than 12,000 social history items, 3,000 artworks, 80,000 natural history specimens, and 15,000 photographs are included in their collections.

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Also a fun recreation centre with events lined up every now and then, these include talk shows, family activities, art and craft courses, film screening, and other events.

Oldham Parish Church The oldest amongst all the three churches in Oldham, this Grade II listed building is designed in a Gothic Revival Style. With its historical roots dating back to the 12th century, the sacred site has been a place of worship for several centuries. The church also offers a crypt tour on the second Saturday of every month from 9:30 am. Visit the Oldham Giant’s tomb and see the socalled ‘Crusader’ stone coffin, which was unearthed under the previous church foundations and dates from the early 13th century. Located in a calm and inviting environment, be at one with the force above and within.

Dovestone Reservoir This beautiful reservoir is located on the edge of Oldham and the Peak District National Park. Perfect for a day out with the family, there are various picnic spots where you can explore the Saddleworth moor as well. With its own sailing club, permanent orienteering courses, horse riding, plenty of walking spaces, and access to open moors, get your binoculars ready as you do some birdwatching and wildlife spotting. The stunning views of the pristine South Pennine Hills from across the reservoir are straight out of a postcard.

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Hartshead Pike Oldham has a lot to offer when it comes to nature and its beauty. Trek to the summit of the Hartshead Pike to get stunning views of Oldham, Saddleworth, Lees and Mossley. With very easy and accessible trekking and cycling routes, the hill derives its name from the tower at the top, the Hartshead Pike. The tower itself holds a historic significance and is a grade- II listed building, built in 1863 to commemorate the wedding of Prince of Wales and Princess

The Old Bell Inn is a 4 star double-A credited property. This historic property has been renovated but in a way that maintains its historic English charm along with all the modern luxuries.

The Head Chef’s ‘Signature Menu’ has been awarded a coveted AA Rosette for culinary excellence. This place is perfect if you are willing to be a little indulgent in your budget for a fine experience at the end of a tiring day.

On a clear day, the hilltop also offers incomparable views of Manchester and Cheshire in the distance. So take out your trekking boots and rent your bicycles to spend a perfect day amidst nature.

The Victoria Hotel by Compass Hospitality feels like a home away from home but with room service. With all the comfort that it aims to provide and set on a scenic setting, the place in itself has become a landmark. A perfect blend of Victorian and modern styles, the hotel features a lounge bar, a beautiful terrace, and a well maintained landscaped garden.

Daisy Nook Country Park

THE WANDERING GOURMET

The Daisy Nook Country Park is one of a kind with waterways, a lake, canals, wild-flower meadows, and woodlands. The 40 hectares landscape of the park is diverse, as you can assess from the various beauty hotspots. A perfect place for spotting wildlife and bird watching, there are footpaths and bridleways for horse riding that link to the neighbouring country areas.

You could also spend a leisurely afternoon fishing at Sammy’s Basin, Crime Lake and Bardsley Canal.

How is a holiday list ever complete without exploring the plethora of food options that the place has to offer?

Alexandra of Denmark

SETTLE IN COSY There is nothing quite as enjoyable as a holiday or adventure when you don’t have the perfect place to crash at the end of the day. There are several accommodations available in Oldham.

www.lancmag.com

The Tea Shop on the Corner is a gorgeous tearoom and cafe that serves delightful cakes, sandwiches, scones, a wide variety of tea, delectable finger food, and has quite a few vegan-friendly options to choose from. Perfect for a lazy brunch or evening hungry shenanigans travel back in time at this themed cafe. The interiors and cutlery will remind you of the vibrant Victorian era as you spend quality time bonding over tea and snacks with your loved ones. This gem of a cafe is certainly a must-visit!

The Kings Arms as a pub and grub spot is great for your casual hangout over a couple of drinks and a wide variety of food items to choose from.

The place is always brimming with life and laughter so it’s advisable to book a table before you drop in.

You will feel straight at ease at this pub and restaurant, right from the ambiance to their delightful comfort food items like fish and chips, cheese and onion pie, puddings and so much more.

Flames Smokehouse has been awarded Traveller’s Choice 2021 and with good reason.

This family-run business has climbed to an unbeatable spot in the list of restaurants and eateries at Oldham with their wide variety of barbecued delicacies and lip-smacking burgers.

Oldham is the perfect destination to get away from the hustle and bustle of busy city life. Abundant in nature and a rich socio-cultural setting, the historic charm of this city with the perfect blend of contemporary times never fails to make a mark on your travel list.

From their ribs and briskets to brownie sizzlers, this eatery is truly a meat lover’s dream come true.

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Freemasons Sign Up to Armed Forces Covenant

Above: Chelsea Pensioners and Johnson Beharry VC

The Freemasons have signed the Armed Forces Covenant during a ceremony at Freemasons’ Hall in Covent Garden on 20 October led by His Royal Highness, The Duke of Kent.

T

he partnership aims to support members of the Armed Forces community and ensure they have the same access to government as well as commercial services and products as any other citizen.

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By signing the Armed Forces Covenant, the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) will be able to demonstrate its support to members of the Armed Forces in a number of areas, including education, family wellbeing, getting a home, starting a new career, access to healthcare, financial assistance and discounted services.

UGLE has a strong Armed Forces background through its military Lodges. This partnership, therefore, represents an important step in further supporting both active and

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retired military personnel. Important Armed Forces personnel such as Admiral Sir Peter Parker, Francis Rawden-Hastings, 1st Marquess of Hastings, Captain Robert Falcon Scott, General Viscount Kitchener of Khartoum, Lieutenant Elias Henry Jones, Marshal of the Royal Air Force Cyril Louis Norton Newall, Commodore Wilfred Henderson and Thomas William Gould VC were all well-known Freemasons.

UGLE’s Grand Master, His Royal Highness, The Duke of Kent, has a longstanding relationship with the  www.lancmag.com

Saul Hay Gallery Contemporary Art

Mark Gibbs - Hero Mixed media 42x12x56cm £1,500

Julia Chance - When I Close My Eyes - Mixed media on Board 75x75cm £950

La Toja Sun Acrylic on canvas 76x76cm £1,200

Kevin John Pocock - Barrier. Acrylic on canvas 122x76cm £1500 Julia Midgley - Titania. Ltd Ed Etching with Aquatint 47.5x49.5cm £300 framed, £240 unframed

Gerry Halpin, Adrift, Acrylic on canvas, 50x60cm £1,200

OPENING TIMES DURING EXHIBITIONS Wednesday - Saturday: 10.30am - 6.00pm | Sunday: 10.30am - 5.00pm

RAILWAY COTTAGE, BEHIND BASS WAREHOUSE OFF CASTLE STREET, MANCHESTER, M3 4LZ E info@saulhayfineart.co.uk | N 0161 222 4800 www.saulhayfineart.co.uk

 military. In 1955, The Duke of Kent graduated from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst as a Second Lieutenant. That was only the beginning of a military career that lasted more than 20 years.

He was promoted to Captain in 1961 and after having served in Hong Kong, His Royal Highness, The Duke of Kent was promoted again to Major in 1967. Three years later, he commanded a squadron of his regiment serving in the British Sovereign Base Area in Cyprus. In 1970, His Royal Highness, The Duke of Kent, also served in Northern Ireland, before being promoted to Lieutenant Colonel on 30 June 1973.

The Duke retired from active service on 15 April 1976. He was subsequently promoted to Major General on 11 June 1983 and to Field Marshal on 11 June 1993.

His Royal Highness, The Duke of Kent, said: “It is my great pleasure to sign the Armed Forces Covenant on behalf of the United Grand Lodge of England. This document represents part of our ongoing commitment to support active and retired military personnel. We are proud of our longstanding relationship with the Armed Forces and we will continue to promote their welfare, support, and respect amongst all our members.”

By signing the Armed Forces Covenant, UGLE demonstrates its intention to support the Armed Forces community which, in turn,

Above: HRH The Duke of Kent and Major General Simon Graham

allows UGLE to be recognised by the UK government’s Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS). An ERS award shows that the recipient is delivering tangible support for the Armed Forces community.

Major General Simon Graham, Director of Reserves Army, signing on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, said: “The Armed Forces Covenant is a commitment to support those who have served and their families. The support of employers and making a public pledge of support to the Armed Forces community that they are valued by society is vital. This year we celebrate the Armed Forces Covenant’s 10th anniversary, and for

Below: HRH The Duke of Kent and Major General Simon Graham

centuries the United Grand Lodge of England has a solid connection to the Armed Forces, and it makes perfect sense for us to have the Freemasons signing up to Armed Forces Covenant this year. I’d like to thank the United Grand Lodge of England for supporting the Armed Forces community.”

Dr David Staples, UGLE’s Chief Executive, said: “It is a great honour to be able to sign the Armed Forces Covenant. From its earliest foundations, Freemasonry has always had a strong relationship with the Armed Forces. Today, we want to thank those brave men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting our country and the people who live here. They deserve all our thanks, our respect and this is one of many steps we aim to take in helping both active and retired members of the Armed Forces and their families.”

On the same day that the UGLE signed the covenant at Freemasons’ Hall, heads of Freemasonry in the Isle of Man, Cheshire, East Lancashire, West Lancashire and North Wales also made their commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant. This is in addition to Staffordshire and Yorkshire North and East Riding regions. In total 24 Provinces have either signed or will sign the Covenant. The Masonic Charitable Foundation and the RMBI also signed the covenant in December 2021 at their AGM.

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THE E-NIRO ‘4 +’ Available on Business Contract Hire at Bolton Kia

For more details contact our dedicated Business and Fleet team at Bolton Kia – Europe’s No.1 Kia Dealer fleet@boltonkia.co.uk or

01204 664800.

Kia e-Niro ‘4+’ (MY21) 64 kWh lithium-ion 201bhp 1-speed auto On Business Contract Hire

Business Contract Hire Value From £422.67 + VAT per month*

C02 Emissions From 0 g/km

P11D Value From £39,985.00

36 month term with initial payment of 6 months rental + VAT. 8,000 miles per annum. Excess mileage charge of 11.67p + VAT per mile.

Bolton Kia – Europe’s No.1 Kia Dealer 79 The Linkway, Middlebrook Retail Park, Horwich, BL6 6JA 01204 664800 l kia.co.uk/bolton

@bolton_kia

/boltonkia

Bolton_Kia

Fuel consumption in mpg (I/100km) for the model shown: Combined not applicable, CO2 emissions 0 g/km and electric combined range of up to 282 miles, to a city range of 382 miles. These figures were obtained after the battery had been fully charged. The e-Niro is a battery electric vehicle requiring mains electricity for charging.

MPG figures are official EU test figures for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. The figures shown here are for limited comparison purposes; electric range and CO2 are tested using WLTP. Only compare fuel consumption, CO2 and electric range figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. For more information about WLTP please refer to kia.com/uk. Business users only. T&Cs apply. Subject to availability at participating dealers. Offer available on Business Contract Hire on orders received before 30th November 2021. Quotation valid at Bolton Kia from 02.11.2021 - 30.11.2021, subject to availability and status. Age 18+ only. Business Contract Hire Terms and conditions apply. *Figures based on model shown: e-Niro ‘4+’ (MY21) 64 kWh lithium-ion 201bhp 1-speed auto at £39,990 including premium White Pearl paint at £595. Offer available on Business Contract hire with advance rental of 6 months rental + VAT (£2,536.02 + VAT), followed by 35 monthly rentals of £422.67+ VAT. Excess miles over contracted mileage of 8,000 miles per year (24,000 total contract mileage) over 36 months charged at 11.67 pence per mile (+VAT). Excess charges also apply if you breach manufacturer servicing or maintenance guidelines or if the car exceeds BVRLA Fair Wear & Tear guidelines for its age/mileage when it is returned to Kia Contract Hire. The total P11D value of the vehicle includes options, extras, manufacturer’s delivery of £537.50 and VAT. Total Effective Rental (applicable to cars only) is £464.94 (this assumes a 50% VAT disallowance on the Finance Rental and VAT). Business Contract Hire Customer Maintenance (inc. RFL). Package includes road fund licence and Kia Contract Hire Assistance. Guarantee/indemnity may be required. Prices and details are subject to change without notice. For full specification and T&Cs contact your local retailer. Kia reserves the right to amend or withdraw offers at any time without prior notice. Feefo score recorded on 23 August 2021 and is liable to change. You will not own the vehicle. ALD Automotive Ltd., trading as Kia Contract Hire, BS16 7LB. 7 Year / 100,000 mile manufacturer’s Warranty. For full terms and conditions visit kia.com/uk.

Kia Motors (UK) Limited trading as Bolton Kia are a broker (not a lender) for the purposes of this financial promotion and can introduce you to a limited number of carefully selected finance providers and may receive a commission from them for the introduction.

Switch Your Business Onto Electric With Bolton Kia

With all the buzz about going electric, there’s never been a better time to find out what making the switch is all about for you and your business.

Fleet Team, who are happy to conduct site visits and demonstrate Kia’s electric vehicles directly at a business’ premises. This way, businesses are better able to see how Kia electric cars will meet their requirements.

any are making the switch to electric already thanks to attractive whole life costs, reduced running costs and maintenance, as well as significant grants available.

Kia’s award-winning EVs, as well as hybrid, plug-in hybrid, petrol and diesel models, are designed to suit every job need. With three EV models to choose from, including the EV6, e-Niro and Soul EV, Kia is already an established pioneer and leader in the sector.

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With a strong choice of electric vehicles (EVs) on the market, choosing the right car for your organisation is vital. Range, charging practicality and price each deserve careful attention.

Consequently, choosing the right option for your company can be a bewildering task, which is why Bolton Kia has a dedicated Business User and 110

The Kia e-Niro – available with a choice of two battery sizes and four trim grades – has been a consistent best seller, ranking in the top three every month in 2021, year-to-date, proving its value, reliability and appreciation by businesses.

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE

No stranger to award wins since its launch in 2016, the e-Niro picked up the title of ‘Best electric small SUV’ for the second year running at the 2021 What Car? Electric Car Awards. The e-Niro remains the only fully electric car to ever win the coveted What Car? Car of the Year award, which it achieved in 2019.

There’s a choice of 282-mile range ‘4+’, ‘3’, and ‘2 Long Range’ or 180mile range ‘2’ grade. Both e-Niro batteries use lithium-ion technology and are liquid cooled, which helps to ensure a consistent range throughout the seasons.

The longer range e-Niro models are powered by a 64kWh battery, which can be recharged from 0-80 per cent in just 54 minutes. Driving the front wheels, a 201bhp electric motor can accelerate the car from 0-62mph www.lancmag.com

in 7.5 seconds, onto a top speed of 104mph. The shorter range e-Niro ‘2’ is powered by a 39kWh battery and a 134bhp motor.

Features such as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard throughout the range, as is a reversing camera and large touchscreen displays.

Offering incredible practicality, range, hot hatch-rivalling performance, and a convenient and driver-friendly cabin, the e-Niro ‘4+’ sits at the top of the family and brings premium options to the family-sized hatchback. These include LED lighting all round, a large 10.25-inch touchscreen with satellite navigation and European mapping, an on-board 11kW charger, front and rear parking sensors and heated and cooled front seats, and heated outer rear seats. Kia (UVO) Connect allows drivers to monitor the car’s range remotely, as well as set charging schedules and pre-heat the interior or check the doors are locked, all at the touch of a button.

Safety comes as standard with the e-Niro benefiting from the latest technology. Grade dependent www.lancmag.com

highlights include useful driver aids such as Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop & Go and Blind Spot Detection (BSD) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).

to the reassurance of our established reliability, reduced running costs and state-of-the-art technology, all at a compelling price.”

With all this and more available from just one model, business and fleet customers may wish to get

Businesses are expected to account for 80% of all electric vehicles purchased in the UK over the next five years, according to the British Vehicle

advice from experts before deciding which model to choose. Happily, they need look no further than Bolton Kia for all their electric car needs.

Rental and Leasing Association’s (BVRLA) 2020 Road to Zero Report Card, with 75% of all BEVs on the road bought by businesses.

Electric car benefits are wide and varied for both business and driver.

Drivers will benefit from the one per cent Benefit-in-Kind tax (BIK) for the current financial year, rising to just two per cent in the next financial year.

Kia’s EVs can also save businesses fuel costs, with a full recharge costing less than £10 (based on the average electricity tariff costing 14 pence per kWh ).

With the introduction of Ultra-Low Emission Zones, Clean Air Zones and Zero Emission Zones around the country, Kia’s electric range offers businesses the perfect opportunity to not only reduce costs of entry into paid zones, but also ensure its drivers are able to visit clients where needed and without incurring penalties for doing so.

In addition, businesses will appreciate £0 Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) and reduced service, maintenance and repair (SMR) costs, which can be significant due to an EV’s simplified powertrain with few moving parts and the use of regenerative braking. This technology is able to recuperate energy when slowing down instead of wearing down brake pads.

Alex Grindrod, Fleet and Business Manager at Bolton Kia commented: “Companies and drivers can benefit from going electric with Kia, thanks

Supporting electric vehicle charging, Kia launched Kia Charge earlier this year, providing access to 19,000 charge point connectors in the UK and a further 290,000 in Europe, including access to popular networks such as bp pulse, Pod Point and IONITY – all from just one simple to use account.

Kevin Howard, Dealer Principal at Kia Bolton added: “Businesses need support before going electric to make the choice that’s right for them. Bolton Kia’s Business, Fleet and Genius teams are all on hand at the dealership to help ensure a smooth a satisfying switch.”

E fleet@boltonkia.co.uk N 01204 664800 D kia.co.uk/bolton

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 111

i l y t r a Ap

r e h t o o n e k

Mid-Week

£310 per room

Weekend

£375

Tweedies Winter Deal

per room

Celebrate with and family

What’s your dream party? A hot-tub with the girls, formal celebration with your colleagues or a champagne withof your family, Come and cosy reception up in front our wood we have the perfect venue for you. burners this Winter and explore The Lakes

FESTIVE MENU

out of season!

Included will be a dedicated events team to take all the stresses you,aour chef to Two Night Break infrom either Mews or a creatively design your favourite menu, and Tweed Suite, to include G&Ts and handmade an expert bar paired perfectly; cheese and chocolates in the room, breakfast daily and beer, fizz and canapés, 3 course banquet, a three course meal for two on one evening.tea and cake – we deliver your imagination.

Offer available from November 1st - February And at the endChristmas of the evening, sneak upstairs 13th, excluding holidays. and rest your head in one of our beautiful newly refurbished Tweed suites.

Starters Twice baked Mrs Kirkham’s creamy Chicken liver parfait, toasted brioche, red onion marmalade Freshly prepared soup of the day, home made crusty roll Pan fried seabream, beetroot and horseradish purée, crispy pancetta, pea shoots

Come. Make it your own…

To Book, please call or email 015394 35300 hello@tweediesgrasmere.com

Mains Traditional turkey Christmas dinner, with all the expected trimmings Fillet of Sea Bass Venison shank Butternut squash risotto

3 courses

£35

Why not consider us as a gift option Desserts this Christmas, we Please call reception on 015394 35300 or email hello@tweediesgrasmere.com to book Indian spiced bread and butter have lovely, bespoke pudding with custard vouchers available Rich chocolate torte, Chantilly cream Tweedies Bar & Lodge Grasmere, The Lake District, Cumbria, LA22 9SW www.tweediesgrasmere.com

F @tweedies1 T @TweediesBar I @tweediesbar

Celebrate with and family What’s your dream party? A hot-tub with the girls, formal celebration with your colleagues or a champagne reception with your family, we have the perfect venue for you.

FESTIVE MENU

Included will be a dedicated events team to take all the stresses from you, our chef to creatively design your favourite menu, and an expert bar paired perfectly; cheese and beer, fizz and canapés, 3 course banquet, tea and cake – we deliver your imagination.

Starters Twice baked Mrs Kirkham’s creamy

And at the end of the evening, sneak upstairs and rest your head in one of our beautiful newly refurbished Tweed suites.

Chicken liver parfait, toasted brioche, red onion marmalade Freshly prepared soup of the day, home made crusty roll Pan fried seabream, beetroot and horseradish purée, crispy pancetta, pea shoots

Come. Make it your own…

To Book, please call or email 015394 35300 hello@tweediesgrasmere.com

Mains Traditional turkey Christmas dinner, with all the expected trimmings Fillet of Sea Bass Venison shank Butternut squash risotto

Desserts Indian spiced bread and butter pudding with custard Rich chocolate torte, Chantilly cream

3 courses

£35

Why not consider us as a gift option this Christmas, we have lovely, bespoke vouchers available

THE FITZWILLIAM GALLERY FINE PAINTINGS IN HAWKSHEAD & GRASMERE

CARL WHITFIELD

ALFREDO NAVARRO

RIC DUFFIELD

RUBY KELLER

FREE LDWOR WIDE Y VER DELI

Discover The Treasures of Hawkshead & Grasmere M The Square, Hawkshead LA22 0NZ N 015394 36248 M Church Bridge, Grasmere LA22 9SN N 015394 35714

www.fitzwilliamgallery.co.uk

VIEW ALL OUR ARTI ONLI STS NE

Our story...

Gillian and Brian took over Dale Lodge Hotel in 2005 along with their two eldest sons, James & Alex. It’s a true ‘family business’ with Aimee (James’ partner) and Laura (Alex’s wife) now permanent fixtures in the enterprise.

The busiest season EVER whilst carrying fewer staff than EVER has certainly had its challenges, but we are through it (even though forward bookings for the Winter are looking really promising).

How has the nationwide staff shortage affected your business?

Nationwide hospitality staff shortage – we think it’s starting to level out? We’ve definitely seen an increase in applicants since the furlough scheme ended.

An interrupted plan of refurbishment?

Having started a program of refurbishment in 2017, which has seen us completely refit eight bedrooms and the lodge restaurant and which we were then forced to put on hiatus whilst the world was thrown into the grips of COVID, is finally grinding back into gear as we enter the quieter Winter months. We have completed The Lodge refurbishment by replacing the huge bay sash window and replacing the tables and chairs with nice, solid Cotswold Company furniture.

As we head into 2022 we are having a much needed new roof – anyone who has visited us during one of The Lakes’ infamous ‘wet spells’ will know that Tweedies does spring a few good leaks!! As of 2022 – no more!!

Winter With Us… On the back of such a fabulously busy season, we took the decision to do away with running deals 116

through the likes of Secret Escapes and push our own out of season offer via our own marketing channels and we are pleased to report the The Winter Deal is selling extremely well, even if those of us who are in charge of promoting it are generally pretty busy with the day to day running of the business!

We are shutting the hotel for more nights over the Christmas period this year…. and then have taken the difficult yet sensible decision to close the business for two weeks in January (from 10th to 23rd) primarily to facilitate staff holidays as, with being so short on the ground, we have not been able to let team members take holidays as we have done in previous years.

Secondly, to give the roofers a good opportunity to crack on with making us water tight!

We do still have some rooms available for the Twixmas and New Year period and these have not been opened up to online travel agents, so if you fancy enjoying festivities with us then pick up the phone and give us a ring on 015394 35300.

A return to normality?

Unfortunately, this year, weddings aside, we felt unable to go ahead with some events that we have developed notoriety for, namely The Grasmere Guzzler, our (generally) annual beer and music

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festival which is normally held over the first weekend in September.

A few factors affected our notion to cancel this year’s event - Alex was concerned that brewers aren’t brewing to the capacity they usually do, we were concerned about the potential spread of the virus, how were we going to staff it when we were struggling to run the business at maximum capacity anyway? And then, what if we pushed through all those boundaries only to get shut down??

The Guzzler WILL be back next year so get the dates in your diary – 2nd,3rd,4th September 2022.

Then there’s the Christmas Market, which we launched in 2019 and had hoped to resume this year but took the stance that we would rather dedicate time to getting the fundamentals of our business running more smoothly before we try to push too hard – and if we are going to do it, we want to do it right and make it the best event we possible can.

Pumpkin Patch 2022??

Watch this space…

TWEEDIES BAR & LODGE M Grasmere, The Lake District, Cumbria, LA22 9SW N 015394 35300 E hello@tweediesgrasmere.com D www.tweediesgrasmere.com www.lancmag.com

CHRISTMAS IS THE PERFECT OPPORTUNITY TO CELEBRATE WITH THOSE CLOSEST TO US ONCE AGAIN…

Christmas Lunch

Christmas DINNER Menu

Monday – Wednesday from 5pm – 9pm 2 COURSE £25 Thursday – Sunday from 5pm – 10pm 3 COURSE £30

Come and join Jon on Christmas day as we open the doors for a Christmas tipple Open from 11am – 3pm

BOXING DAY DINNER Menu

New Years EVE Menu

New Years day Menu

12pm – 10pm 2 COURSE £20 3 COURSE £25

7pm – 2am 7 COURSE TASTING MENU £85 Dress Code: Black Tie

2 COURSE £20 3 COURSE £25

Monday – Wednesday from 12pm – 4pm 3 COURSE £20 Thursday – Sunday from 12pm – 4pm 3 COURSE £25

Christmas day

Why not consider The Cross Guns Inn for your festive celebration? Enjoy great food in relaxed, stylish surroundings and bring some extra sparkle to Christmas lunches, get-togethers and festive dinners.

If you would like to book a table for up to 8 guests, please do so on the website www.thecrossguns.co.uk, contact the Jon and the team on 01204 291204 or drop us an email info@thecrossguns.co.uk

Tweedies Wedding Packages Do you want to get married without all the fuss? Just you and your fiancé?

If so our Just The Two Of Us Package is perfect for you!

PRICES INCLUDE:

Photography by: Jo Greenfield

• 2 nights accommodation in a newly refurbished luxury suite overlooking the fells.

Intimate Wedding For up to 30 guests

PRICE TO INCLUDE:

Photography by: Adam Grill

• Exclusive use of the Lodge Restaurant.

• Afternoon Tea on arrival

• Room Hire for Ceremony held in either Lodge Restaurant, Guest Lounge or in our beautiful grounds.

• Welcome Hamper including Champagne and Lakes Gin & Tonics.

• Post Ceremony Champagne and Canapes Reception.

• Dinner the night before your Wedding

• 3 course Wedding Breakfast including ½ bottle of wine per person and tea and coffee.

• Breakfast • Room Hire for Ceremony and two witnesses.

• Champagne for toast.

• Post ceremony Champagne

• Homemade pizza’s in evening.

• 3 course Wedding Breakfast including a bottle of wine

• Tweed Suite for night of the wedding and breakfast the following morning for Bride and Groom.

• Room service breakfast and late check out the following morning.

From £995 and with last minute availability it has never been easier to say I do!

• Discounted room rates for guests wishing to stay over.

Starting at £95 per person

Download our Wedding brochure: www.tweediesgrasmere.com/weddings 118

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www.lancmag.com

art craft heritage

free entry

Exhibitions - Artists' Studios - Heritage Workshops - Craft Gallery - Tea Room

www.farfieldmill.org

Please check the website for opening days & times

Garsdale Road Sedbergh Cumbria LA10 5LW

WARRINGTON

By Megha Seth

Nothing is as relaxing as planning short getaways with your family or friends to rejuvenate your body and mind.

W

arrington is exactly the place you could be at when looking for short getaway destinations. A large town in the county of Cheshire, England, situated on the banks of River Mersey, the town emerged in the late 18th century and was termed as “New Town” in a region of heavy industries. An impeccable combination of history, art, nature, and culture, tourism has always thrived in Warrington.

THINGS TO DO AND PLACES TO VISIT IN WARRINGTON There are many underrated and frequently visited hotspots in Warrington. Let’s explore the various attractions that this alluring town has to offer.

Warrington Museum and Art Gallery The Warrington Museum and Art Gallery is situated in a Grade II listed building on Bold Street. The 120

Neoclassical building in itself is a masterpiece. Opened in 1848, this is one of the most dated museums in the country. The underrated gem displays various exhibitions, artefacts, periodic collections, and unique performances. It is the perfect place to explore the fusion of art, culture, and heritage of Warrington. With many varied interactive displays and activities, from trying on knit armours and helmets to interacting with contemporary pieces, the museum and art gallery caters to all age groups.

Manchester Ship Canal

Warrington Town Hall

A high-level cantilever bridge built in the early 1890s crosses the canal in Warrington followed by three swing bridges. A perfect place to spot a few vessels as you take in the serene atmosphere from a height.

Originally known as Bank Hall, the Warrington Town Hall was built in the 1750s for the Patten Family. Its grounds became the first public park of Warrington. The historic golden gates stand tall at the front of the town hall lawn.

The town hall has been designated as a Grade I listed building and most certainly lives up to its expectations.

Described as “one of the finest house of its date”, the exterior and interior of the building are as majestic as they can get. From the entrance hall to the cellar, one cannot fail to notice the finesse of the architecture and wealth invested to create this grand beauty.

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The Manchester Ship Canal passes through Warrington connecting Manchester to the Irish Sea. This large-scale waterway is absolutely breathtaking, one certainly has to applaud the ambition of the project.

During its year of inauguration in 1894, the canal was then the largest in the world. Now, this canal is not just a waterway or a means of trade and convenience but also has a notable historic value.

Lymm Dam Rated as Traveller’s Choice in 2021, Lymm Dam is certainly one place that tourists must not miss when in Warrington. A perfect place with several picnic spots for friends and family, take a walk around the dam as you soak in the tranquil beauty of the place.

The dam is ground to outstanding water features. There are ample activities www.lancmag.com

and locals alike as you spend a fun afternoon with family and friends. This amusement park has various rides and over 35 years of experience to provide great value deals. This multiple awardwinning themed park has various has thrill rides, indoor games, fun rides, family rides, and several shows. From Gully Town to the Safari Kingdom, the wild rides in the Western World to the thrilling rides of Smuggler’s Wharf, the various themed rides will surely add to your memorable experiences.

Open almost all year round, you can avail brilliant discounts if you book your tickets 2 days prior to visiting.

Bridge Street The historic Bridge Street is a perfect place for a casual stroll as you check out the stores and fast food shops located here. A public art installation, River Of Life, also stands erect on Bridge Street, as a tribute to victims of the 1993 bomb attack on the street itself.

that you can enjoy thoroughly which include wildlife spotting, woodland walks, and angling.

Walton Hall and Gardens Built in the 1830s, the Walton Hall is a Jacobean Revival Mansion which in itself is a heritage. Its architectural splendour makes it a must-visit. The house hosts various chamber music concerts and also serves as a venue for a whole lot of events.

With its aesthetic delights to mesmerise one’s eyes, the house also has an outdoor garden with various activities bound to keep you engaged throughout the day. The access to this garden does not even cost a dime, the parking fee being minimal. Among the various facilities for family and friends in the park, a small well maintained zoo and crazy golf seal the deal.

Apart from that, there is a pitch and putt course, a play area for children, rope walks, and a cafe to satiate your hunger after a long engaging day.

Gulliver’s World What fun is a holiday without enjoying the joyrides that the town has to offer? Gulliver’s World is an all-time favourite spot for tourists www.lancmag.com

Nonetheless, the main attraction lies in the elevation above the stores. The place retains its Edwardian and late Victorian charm, one can thoroughly enjoy a casual stroll on this street while taking in the gorgeous architectural elegance.

LODGING A traveller’s list is never complete without choosing the perfect place to settle yourself in after a long tiring day of exploration.

The Park Royal is the best place for nights away to relax and unwind.

Awarded as Traveller’s Choice in 2021, the hotel is one of the best value for its deal, With great room sizes and balconies with a lovely view, their impeccable service makes tourists hold them in high esteem. It is an ideal choice with an indoor lounge bar, spa facilities, an exquisite indoor restaurant, and a sauna and steam room.

Statham Lodge Hotel offers an immersive countryside stay experience with beautifully landscaped gardens and amazing views of the Cheshire countryside. A Georgian Manor house hotel is the perfect place for a luxurious country break.

Premier Inn Haydock Hotel makes it to the Traveller’s Choice in 2021. With

a great staff, perfectly clean, and wellkept spacious rooms with very stylish, modern interiors, the hotel is quite close to several tourist attractions scoring a 10/10 on accessibility and connectivity.

FOOD QUEST What does the glutton zone look like when in Warrington? Let’s explore the various local cuisines and food options.

The Dining Room never fails to disappoint in terms of the quality of food and service. Whoever has been to the place has only left the cafe with an amazing experience and truckloads of 5-star reviews. It is a must-visit when in Warrington. Straight from their ambiance in the outdoor seating section to their scrumptious meals, the place is best for a loaded brunch or lunch gathering. Their in-house specialties include sandwiches, homemade chips, Sunday roast, eggs Benedict, and pudding.

Barley Mow Pub is situated on Warrington’s Old Market Place and is one of the oldest pubs in town, the establishment dating back to the year 1561. The Grade II listed building has survived the tides of time because of its lovely food and impeccable ambiance. A visit to Warrington is never complete without indulging in a meal and a couple of drinks here.

From a variety of cocktails to finger foods and wholesome meals, there are several options even for a vegetarian palette.

The Pickering Arms is one of those places that serves a hearty meal without compromising on the quality well within a reasonable price. With a relaxing atmosphere and a vibrant menu, their excellent service, taste, and presentation of the food are worth mentioning separately. From prawn cocktails and apple crumble to their gluten-free fish and chips, juicy double patty burgers, a one-time visit will never be enough to explore their entire menu.

Warrington is a town that you would want to visit frequently for relaxing getaways. From their local cultural scenes to tons of activities that you can enjoy with your friends and family, this town never fails to mesmerise its tourists only for them to return again.

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Aiming Higher YOU CAN DONATE TO AIMING HIGHER USING THE FOLLOWING METHODS:

WEBSITE | www.aiminghighercharity.org.uk/donate JUST GIVING | www.justgiving/aiminghigher/donate/ PAYPAL | Found on Aiming Higher website or call to make donations by phone 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.

Please ring us on 01253 206447 for further information.

EXCITING NEW PROJECT FOR BLACKPOOL CHARITY 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 10 years.

F

or the last three years, the charity’s Transformation Project has been funded by The National Lottery Communities Fund, providing families with disabled children with support from a team of Family Support Workers and a Development Worker.

Amongst other things, these workers have helped families with diagnoses, provided emotional support, navigated benefit forms and grant applications, find suitable housing and apply for Education & Health Care Plans. They also supported families at meetings with other professionals and suggested strategies to help with the challenges that life throws at them.

The biggest of these challenges, and one which no one could have planned for was obviously Covid-19.

The team adapted their way of working completely to continue 122

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service delivery throughout lockdown providing support in lots of different ways (see infographic).

The Transformation Project came to an end at the end of November 2021 but Aiming Higher are delighted to announce that they will be working with the National Lottery again with the creation of “The Reaching Resilience Project” which will run for 3 years from January 2022. The project aims to develop on the existing work, providing a real focus on therapeutic interventions and building families’ resilience; enabling them to manage challenges better. They will continue to work with families addressing diagnosis, health and social care, finances, education, mental health and housing.

As well as a Family Support Worker, the team will include a Short-term Intervention Worker and a Resilience Worker.

The Short-term Intervention Worker will focus solely on families who only need short-term help such as help completing a form or general advice.

The Family Support Worker will then be able to continue to provide robust, early help for families who may otherwise reach crisis point. www.lancmag.com

PICTURED ABOVE & LEFT: Children enjoying recent Halloween parties

PICTURED ABOVE: Parents take part in recent paediatric first aid training at Aiming Higher’s Centre The Resilience Worker will work with parents, carers, siblings and young people with additional needs to highlight and build on their existing strengths and promote feelings of positive self-worth and capability to manage challenges. This will include direct therapeutic work with children and young people with disabled.

They will also consult with families and then deliver workshops for parents and carers, or children and young people on topics they feel are currently important.

PICTURED ABOVE: Parent/carers make Christmas wreaths as part of a Coffee & Chat group Through this work, the charity aims to: • Improve families’ wellbeing • Reduce isolation • Create healthier communities for children and parents/carers • Build resilient parents/carers and young people • Improve the community’s understanding of disability so they can be part of a wider network of support.

Latoya Sykes, Direct Services Manager at Aiming Higher explains that the charity are incredibly grateful to the National Lottery for funding the new project. “The last 2 years have been filled with challenges and uncertainty in regards to funding and service delivery. We are grateful as an organisation to be able to continue supporting the disabled community as we are very aware that sadly other charities across the UK have not been so fortunate to survive the pandemic.”

Like all charities, Aiming Higher saw fund-raising activity decrease in 2020 and 2021, so if you can support them in any way possible, any assistance will be gratefully received.

Please send your ideas to: latoyasykes@aiminghighercharity.org.uk www.lancmag.com

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Balance Counselling and Coaching Ltd

PUT YOUR LIFE IN BALANCE

By Kath Taylor

I had an award-winning career spanning over twenty years working in the logistics industry being recognised by the industry in the top 100 list several times and having the honour of winning leader of the year award in recognition of the work I did supporting, mentoring, coaching and developing individuals within the organisations I worked for.

On the coaching side I work with businesses and their employee’s at all levels from first line managers right up to executives, enabling them to become confident individuals who are able to manage and drive change programmes, improve / develop their management and leadership, influencing and engagement skills.

I help them secure stakeholder support and build teams that deliver, gaining clarity on goals and setting strategic plans for the future.

help all my clients achieve sustainable and lasting results and my background as a senior executive at director level enables me to understand the motivations and challenges of working in large organisations, leading teams of people and delivering targets, dealing with conflicts and achieving work life balance.

I work with individuals on a variety of topics, including career advice, building better relationships, motivation, goal setting, health and fitness, spirituality to name a few.

I help clients achieve success.

I

I have been qualified as a coach since 2011 and a behavioural analyst in 2013 due to more and more employees presenting with personal/ mental health issues I decided to learn more and became a qualified counsellor in 2013.

On the counselling side I work as an integrative counsellor, which means I am trained in multiple disciplines of counselling and flex my style to suit different individuals and situations.

I work with many individuals and businesses dealing with issues ranging from, general stresses of life, work, relationships issues and breakdowns, bereavement, abuse, depression, anxiety amongst others.

Below is a sample of the things my clients have said about me: “Balance Counselling and coaching has provided an exceptional standard of service, I have found the sessions engaging, supportive and informative.

Kathryn has an outstanding set of skill based on well researched knowledge and empathetic expertise. I will forever be grateful for the insight and understanding she provided to me in the sessions.”

“Kathryn is an incredible mentor who helps me to understand where I want to drive my career to. She also motivates me to achieve any goal that I have in mind but be kind to myself even if things don’t turn out how I like them.

I am so grateful to have found her.”

“Kathryn is top! Throughout he many sessions I have had with her she’s enabled me to open up comfortably and naturally. This overall has allowed me to understand many things about myself and form the ability to control my emotional state in a calming way.”

I am an NLP master practitioner and trainer which when I started my training I hadn’t intended to become as I was originally doing the initial training out of a personal interest in how the mind works and why we do the things we do, I was that engrossed with what I learnt I didn’t want to stop and it has supported me in my own life both personally and on a business front as well as supported my client work.

In 2017 I decided I wanted to focus more on the areas of my career I found most fulfilling so set up my own business as a Counsellor and Coach supporting individuals and businesses.

For a confidential discussion email: info@balancecounsellingandcoaching.co.uk or call on: 07794 143 171 or visit: www.balancecounsellingandcoaching.co.uk 124

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www.lancmag.com

NEW YEAR NEW START

E

very year as the year ends and the new one approaches people sit down and start a list of resolutions (goals) they want to set themselves to achieve in the following 12 months and commit to changing the things in their life’s that they are no longer happy with or challenging themselves to start moving towards achieving their goals.

Unfortunately many people start with great motivation but by the second or third week of January they are already starting to flounder. Old habits set in, and lack of motivation takes over.

1

Write down the things you want to change in your life or new challenges you want to set.

This may seem obvious but its surprising that most targets are set with little thought been given to what the actually desired outcome is.

2

Ask Yourself what does your goal mean to you? Look at each item on your list individually and ask yourself the following questions making a note of your answers. a. What would achieving your goal mean for you? b. What would it add to your life? d. What would achieving your goal mean for you?

Having clear plans that you can follow means you know how to achieve your aims and helps keep you on track as you know what each step on your route is, combine this with having plans to deal with obstacles on route means you stay on track and find ways to keep moving forward even when challenges arise.

3

Sharing your plans can also help keep you on track as once you have said it out loud and shared with other people it adds to your commitment to achieve the desired results.

I want to share with you some tips to helping you set goals and achieving them without loosing your motivation and commitment to them. These tips are relevant at any time you are setting yourself targets not just at the start of the year. www.lancmag.com

7

Tell someone you trust of your goals as they will help hold you accountable.

g. Are you doing this for you or is it just something you think you should do?

Do you really want to achieve the goal you have set? Based on your answers to point two evaluate whether the goal is something you really want to achieve and if the answer is no remove from your list.

4

Review your list again and assign the priority you want to give each item and the timeframe you want to achieve them by.

Take each item in priority order and ask yourself the following questions.

• What will I see?

• What will I hear?

• What will I feel?

• What will I know?

N.B. If at any point you have multiple options for your next step then make a note of the options and repeat points C and D on them until you reach your final goal. This will give you options in your action plan in case you hit any blockers on your journey.

Now you have your action plan review your timeline and check it still fits with the actions you need to take, amend where necessary.

f. Are you happy to accept the negatives?

a. How will I know I have achieved my goal?

d. Repeat point C until you get to what would be the first thing you need to do to start of on your journey to achieving your goal.

6

e. What are the downsides of achieving your goal?

5

c. What would be the step before that?

Many journeys fail because we hit obstacles in our path and loose our commitment to carry on. Having options makes it easy to transfer paths.

c. Why is this important to you?

The reason for this is that the goals aren’t always thought through and quite often are a reaction to something that’s happened in your life or a desire for change. Not understanding, why you actually want to achieve something or what it adds to your life or what you lose from it are some of the reasons that we lose our way and don’t follow through on our goals.

b. What would be the Final step I would take to arrive at my goal?

8 9 10

Take your first step and begin.

Have the list of goals somewhere visible that you will see every day.

Review your action plan weekly and adjust for any challenges or obstacles.

Don’t be afraid you alter your timeline, remember for most goals we set ourselves it’s achieving the outcome that’s important not the date we hit the last step.

Be kind to yourself – i.e., if your goal was to form a new habit don’t let missing a day or week stop you.

Recognise the times you did achieve it and remind yourself you did it so you can do it again. Remind yourself of all your responses to the questions in tip 2 and refocus and start again.

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O

ur Lakeland elves have worked very hard this year to fill our Christmas shop with everything you need to have a very merry time indeed, from beautiful wreaths and garlands to add a festive flourish to your home, to Christmas crackers that’ll have you bowling, racing, or creating a musical symphony after dinner – and cracking hilarious jokes, of course! As well as stunning mix and match tableware ranges, we’ve got fabulous gift ideas for everyone on your list and our best range of delicious foodie hampers yet.

you, and the planet, all our crackers are made from glitterfree, foil-free, fully recyclable card – packaging and all.

And the only plastic you will find in them (like our racing pigs) is either biodegradable or comes with a storage bag so they can be used again and again.

And if you’re cooking the Christmas dinner this year, our fab kitchen kit will make dinner prep a doddle, from the perfect roasties to succulent turkey, we’ve got you covered – you won’t even have to peel the spuds thanks to our Potato Rumbler! And once everyone is stuffed full of turkey, our selection of luxurious hot chocolate, mulled wine kits and scrumptious biscuits and chocolates is perfect for a cosy night in front of the fire, made all the more magical when you add Northern Lights Fire Cones... So sit back, relax, grab a brew (or mulled wine and a mince pie) and journey through our wonderful Christmas range in store or online.

OUR MOST ECO-FRIENDLY CRACKERS EVER Everyone loves a cracker, but nobody loves all the hardto-recycle waste they produce after pulling. Happily for 126

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6 Lakeland Racing Pigs in Blankets Crackers £19.99 6 Lakeland Gingerbread Bowling Crackers £19.99 www.lancmag.com

MYLAKELAND Have you joined our myLakeland club yet?

O

ur members regularly enjoy special discounts, hand-picked partner offers, exclusive competitions and so much more. Plus whenever they shop and show their membership card, a few pennies go into our charity pot which supports deserving UK charities.

HOW TO MAKE CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

H

ave you ever known anyone say no to homemade cookies?

We’d love you to join so you don’t miss out. Sign up in your local store or Lakeland.co.uk/mylakeland and we’ll post your free membership card within a couple of weeks, along with a voucher to say thanks for joining… and that’s just for starters!

Once you’ve joined, you can look forward to invitations to myLakeland member-only events where you could enjoy delicious free gifts or even meet a celebrity chef. Plus we love to give our members ideas and inspiration that just can’t be found anywhere else, like exclusive recipes and prizes draws – what’s not to love?

FEELING FESTIVE? WHY NOT TRY YOUR HAND AT A BATCH OF FESTIVE GONK COOKIE…

Q

uick to bake and fun to decorate, these yummy gonk-shaped cookies will go down well as homemade gifts. There couldn’t be a sweeter snack to munch on while you get busy wrapping Christmas presents. Get the cookie cutter at Lakeland.co.uk

Neither have we. They’re irresistible to everyone, and surprisingly easy to make.

Even if you’ve never baked before, you can knock up a batch of yummy cookies in no time.

INGREDIENTS • 115g softened butter • 200g plain flour, plus extra to dust • 50g soft light brown sugar • ¼ tsp salt • 50g caster sugar • 50g dark chocolate chips • 3 tbsp milk • ¼ tsp almond extract

FIND OUR RECIPE FOR MAKING A VERY FESTIVE GONK CAKE AT BLOG.LAKELAND.CO.UK

INSTRUCTIONS

1 2

Preheat the oven to 180°C/fan oven 160°C/Gas 4.

Line 2 baking trays with baking parchment.

Put the butter into a large mixing bowl and beat with a wooden spoon until smooth. Add the flour, salt, light brown sugar, caster sugar and chocolate chips. Stir to combine. Mix together the milk and almond extract and add to the mixing bowl, working them into the mixture.

3

Use your hand to knead lightly to make a smooth dough, then separate into two equal portions. Lightly flour a work surface, then roll each portion into a thick sausage with a diameter of approximately 4cm. Wrap in baking parchment or cling film and chill for 30 minutes.

4

Slice the chilled cookie dough into rounds (approx. 5mm thick) and arrange on the prepared baking trays. Bake for 15-18 minutes, then leave on the baking trays to cool.

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MAKE YOUR OWN LAKELAND HOT CHOCOLATE BOMBES

F

un to make and melt, as well as being mouth-wateringly tasty, hot chocolate bombes – also known as hot chocolate melts – are the gifts that keep on giving. With a few lovely ingredients, you can make them as colourful and creative as you wish – and they’re really easy to put together. You can find everything you’ll need at Lakeland.co.uk - Let’s get making!

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STEP 1 – CREATE THE CHOCOLATE SPHERES Place a heat-resistant bowl over a pan of hot water, and melt some good quality chocolate, stirring to make sure it’s smooth and evenly melted. We like to use Guittard® chocolate chips, and if they’re good enough for professional chocolatiers…

Using a silicone pastry brush, brush an even layer of chocolate onto each of the holes in our Silicone Mini Spheres Pan, and pop into the fridge to set. Once the chocolate has hardened, carefully turn the half spheres out of the mould.

STEP 2 – ADD YOUR FAVOURITE FILLINGS Add your fillings to a chocolate shell; you’ll need a good spoonful of your favourite hot chocolate. How much you add is up to you, but we recommend Charbonnel et walker Drinking Chocolate for a little bit of luxury. You could even try adding a drop of orange or peppermint extract to it for hint of festive flavour.

For an all-in-one option, you can’t go wrong with our Hot Chocolate Flakes with Marshmallows, a delicious concoction of smooth mallows and dark chocolate flakes.

Yum! To make your chocolate bombe, carefully dip the rim of a chocolate shell into a little melted chocolate, and pop it on top of the filled shell, then leave to set.

STEP 3 – PIPE LIKE A PRO Now for the fun bit! Melt a small amount of chocolate (we can never get enough!), or mix up some icing sugar and water to a pipeable consistency.

Spoon it into a piping bag fitted with a writing nozzle, and swirl and drizzle to your heart’s content. We find that using a colour that contrasts with the chocolate shell stands out best.

And if the two halves of your sphere aren’t joined very neatly, who has to know? Pipe around the join, and cover it with sprinkles. Ta-dah!

STEP 4 – ADD THE FINISHING TOUCHES Give your chocolate spheres some sparkle with a sprinkling of edible silk, or use the chocolate colouring kit to paint the surface and transform into colourful treats.

Hot chocolate bombes make such a lovely gift for any friends or family with a sweet tooth, and they’ll be all the more special as they’re made by your own fair hands.

Visit blog.lakeland.co.uk for more festive recipes Find everything you’ll need on Lakeland.co.uk • Guittard Maxi Milk Chocolate Chips • My Kitchen Silicone Mini Pastry Brush • Silicone 20 Cup Mini Spheres Pan • Charbonnel Luxury Hot Drinking Chocolate Flakes • Lakeland Hot Chocolate Flakes with Marshmallows • Writing and Chocolate Piping Nozzles with Bags • Edible Silk Assortment • Cocol Warm Hues Chocolate Colouring Kit www.lancmag.com

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Brambles Wildlife Rescue F @brambleswildliferescue BRAMBLES WILDLIFE RESCUE is run by Mel and Justin Greenhalgh, starting up in early 2020 during lockdown alongside their full-time working to help wildlife in need of help in Lancashire. Mel had volunteered with small wildlife for a number of years and the lack of local wildlife rescues on the Fylde Coast at the time prompted them to become more involved and set up the rescue.

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hey rescue mostly takes in injured, poorly and orphaned garden birds, gulls, ducks, pigeons and doves, rabbits, mice and hedgehogs.

The rescue also carry out outreach and monitoring work and attend to wildlife injuries on local parks and reserves such as fishing hook injuries and relocating swans and cygnets that have crash landed in places that they can’t take off again from. Recently they have arranged treatment for a swan at Stanley Park that needed an eye removed and they continue to monitor a group of swans with emerging similar eye problems.

In the last 18 months, they have admitted over 370 wildlife into their small 18 bed rescue, and over 70% of them survived and were rehabilitated. The rescue doesn’t put any wildlife to sleep unless they’re in ongoing pain and have no quality of life, and they currently find sanctuary homes for disabled birds so they still have a chance at life.

Most birds that the rescue treat have illnesses such as worm and parasite burdens, fungal problems, severe bacterial strains such as salmonella or E-Coli or viruses that can easily spread. Injuries treated at the rescue include problems such as tears in the crop, broken wings and broken legs caused by traffic or predators. Then there are the many orphans that come into the rescue after falling

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 from nests, being abandoned by parents too early or cat attacks that need hand-rearing until they are big enough for release.

Donations received from kind-hearted members of the public are used to buy medicine, pay for treatment, feed and give the injured wildlife a warm and safe home whilst they recover.

The rescue is planning to relocate in early 2022 in order to have the land and space to erect some aviaries and waterfowl pens for soft release and to give disabled birds a long-term home.

Ready for relocation in 2022, the rescue are looking for public or sponsorship support to raise funds for aviaries and pens, alongside the day-to-day running costs. This will help the rescue to see the recovery journeys of wildlife right through to the end and to be able to give disabled birds a quality of life. The rescue receives no government or supported funding and the costs are currently covered by their full-time jobs and the generosity of public donations.

The rescue is run via their Facebook page www.facebook. com/brambleswildliferescue where you will find links of how to donate or support them at the top of their page or feel welcome to message them for further details.

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CHRISTMAS GIFTS GALORE

10% OFF ALL SHOES

THIS CHRISTMAS, UNTIL 24th DEC, 2021

Cumbria CA11 7SP | Tel. 01768 862078 | www.arnison.com | Follow us on

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Christmas and Jewellery are a Perfect Match!

Hill & Hill The Jewellers of Altrincham are no ordinary Jewellers. They are a team of Jewellery stylists, passionate about bringing the very latest trends and jewellery styles to their beautiful store in the heart of Altrincham.

Retailer of the Year, and Bespoke Designers of the Year.

Even though Hill & Hill only opened in Altrincham two and half years ago, they have quickly become known for their outstanding service, and more importantly, very, very cool jewellery!

t’s been a busy year for Hill & Hill The Jewellers.

After winning Store Design of the Year in a national competition, they were also later nominated for

Since reopening from the winter lockdown last April, they have seen a significant increase in trade, by both men and women wanting high end jewellery as part of their look.

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M 60 George Street, Altrincham, WA14 1RF | F

Jo Hill, company director and jewellery designer says “We have had a wonderful year, creating some really beautiful jewellery.

Many remodellings of old pieces into something new and fantastic, as well as bringing to the high street really on-trend designers which has really struck a cord with our customers.”

In June, Hill & Hill opened their piercing boutique, offering both instrument and needle piercing.

Bethy the store manager and a fully licensed needle piercer says, “The style is to decorate your ear with as many piercings as you want. I will help design the perfect look. Men and women love this look.” Bethy

has even hosted “Piercing Parties”, “These are great fun. Friends offer moral support and encourage more and more piercings.”

“We want to thank all our customers for their outstanding support in the last year. Our simple aim to be the best. Happy Christmas.”

Their jewellery designer cast list impressive; Shaun Leane, UNOde50, Chlobo, Budddha to Buddha, Ti Scento, and Lucy Q, and many more.

House of Hill Vintage remains one of their best selling ranges, which is a curated collection of some of the finest vintage gold and silver jewellery.

“Gold chains, beautiful precious stone rings, charms, it’s really important to us to use exceptional old vintage pieces to create a really eclectic, modern look.”

Another such trend is adorning your ear with precious stones and metals called the “curated ear”.

I hhthejewellers | N 0161 9295018 | D https://hhtj.co.uk

Hill & Hill The Jewellers of Altrincham believe the gift of jewellery at Christmas is an absolute winner.

They have put together a GIFT LIST from their range of what they think you will absolutely love. They will even gift wrap it for you too!

Hill & Hill are on standby for the festive rush of romantics!

A Christmas engagement is a super idea so choose from a stunning range of engagement rings, using traditional diamonds or coloured precious stones, in all designs.

Prices to suit every pocket.

Beautifully made initials make a beautiful gift.

Hill & Hill’s range include Mother of Pearl and 9ct gold for £350 with a chain, £250 without.

Diamond set in 9ct gold is £300 with a chain, £200 without.

Shaun Leane is one the UK’s top Jewellery designers, and his signature hook earrings are a best seller.

Worn as a single, a pair, or even a mix of sizes and metals. £250 - £350 in gold vermeil, or £175 - £275 in silver.

His whole range is also available at Hill & Hill.

M 60 George Street, Altrincham, WA14 1RF | F I hhthejewellers | N 0161 9295018 | D https://hhtj.co.uk

Local designer brand Chlobo are constantly updating their beautiful selection and they are one of Hill & Hill’s best sellers.

Bracelets worn as a single or stacked. It is a fabulous brand with so much choice.

Bracelets start at around £65. Perfect gift idea!!

Absolute stocking fillers!

Starburst Earrings are part of the fantastic Scream Pretty range and is hugely popular with young people.

All silver or gold plate, with great fun designs.

Inexpensive, great range.

Prices from £20.

Men wear jewellery too! Men are also wearing beautifully made, high-end jewellery.

So Hill & Hill have introduced a great range of chunky bracelets and heavy chains.

This is a one of our best sellers. The Alex Monroe Bee is a simply beautiful piece of jewellery.

Hand crafted, delicate and looks perfect in both gold, rose gold and silver.

Strong, solid and cool designs just for men.

From £60.

Starting from £120 for the silver baby bee.

Hill & Hill have a new piercing boutique, with men and women loving the “curated ear” look, which means more than one piercing in your ear!

House of Hill Vintage is Hill & Hill’s their own curated collection of vintage Gold and silver jewellery.

Buy a gift voucher for some extra piercings and some beautiful piercing jewellery.

Prices start from £27 - £430.

So many love the vintage look, whether it’s old charms, rings or gold chains.

Every piece is a one off, and very cool!

Plan a Christmas shopping trip to Altrincham and pop to Hill & Hill The Jewellers, and let their Jewellery Stylists help make your Christmas perfect.

I am Janet and I am your resident Positive Change Coach bringing you techniques and insights to help you navigate the changes in your life positively. I have 15 years experience and now work globally from Costa Rica to New Zealand and everywhere in-between.

Are you still in the industry and career you planned?

What would your younger self think of you now? Mine would be in complete shock and very, very puzzled!

I

began my career in Hotel Management and then began a teaching career – in hotel management, I then had my own catering business and returned to teaching for a while, so the first 10 years whilst not quite as I predicted were at least in the same career.

I then moved into Education Management, so hotels were behind me and I had a new career trajectory.

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However I suffered with what I now know to be stress, from 17 I had regular migraines and was sent for various hospital tests. I had always had low confidence and selfesteem, I did force myself to undertake challenges that had me shaking inside, and this had some effect, so that I would come cross as confident but inside I was curling up and wanted to run away.

At 40 I was inspired to join a yoga class, this is 1998 when there were few classes and even less understanding.

From that night my life began to change. The wonderful yoga teacher, Linda, introduced me to my first personal development book – Louise L. Hay – You Can Heal Your Life. One of the exercises was to look at yourself in the mirror and say “I love you”. I had some months previous looked in the mirror and screamed “I hate you”. So this was a huge challenge and the tears streamed down my face, yet, I did it, a massive step forward.

and never walk straight again. I accepted they had done all they could but not the prognosis. So I set the intention that I would fully recover and find a way to do it.

A week later I met a Practitioner of Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT/Tapping) and after 4 hours I was able to walk and was pain free!!! My work colleagues were astounded not only did I walk straight my body and face had relaxed. Having removed the emotional stress I was holding onto my body had released the tension and pain.

Having this life changing experience, I had to find out more and became a Practitioner, Advanced Practitioner and then being a teacher, I qualified as a Master Trainer, I wanted to spread the word as far and wide as I could.

I then gained the opportunities to train in Reiki Healing, Life Coaching, Neuro-Linguistic Programming and Colour Psychology. As each opportunity came I embraced it.

I then came across a 1 day course “Confidence for Women Managers”, and bought a series of follow up audio tapes, and spent a weekend listening to them. I then felt I needed to discuss my thoughts and saw an evening course called “You are who you think you are” at the local college.

I was amazed how what I needed came along. I now know this to be the Law of Attraction. And so it continued, more books and courses. Some of them challenging whilst at the same time enlightening.

Throughout yoga had been my place of sanctuary, my weekly class was the constant in my life. The following day I would tell my friend at work what we had learnt the night before and she would say “Teach it”, I was a teacher so it made sense to teach the thing I loved. But some of my low confidence remained, I could not visualize myself as a yoga teacher, I did not feel good enough both physically and emotionally, that I did not have enough of the inner serenity I found in my teachers.

By 2003 I had moved house and job and yoga was now a major part of my life, and my holidays were Yoga Retreats, that year I went to Italy and a wonderful week and on the last evening decided to take up the offer of going horse riding for only the 3rd time in my life, unfortunately we received poor guidance and were taken straight out on a mountain trek, my horse stumbled and I was thrown and broke my back. Too long a story about being in a hospital not speaking the language and arriving home in a steel corset and metal collar. My neighbour told me 12 months later that when she first saw me she thought I was finished and would never work again.

However I was unhappy in my job, one Friday morning I had a particularly upsetting encounter with my boss and I sat at my desk and promised myself that in 6 months when I reached my 50th birthday I was out of there I didn’t know how but I was open to the possibilities. I even drew up a calendar of holidays, bank holidays, time off in lieu and the day a week we were allowed to work from home so that I could be in the office as little as possible. A couple of weeks earlier my yoga teacher at the time had given me a leaflet about a half day introduction to DRU Yoga, I’d booked on, it was just what I needed. I’d never heard of DRU Yoga but as ever was open to the experience.

However one thing I have always been is determined and one of the first things I said to the medics was “Tell me what to do and I will get better”. So I did it all, physio, acupuncture, hydro pool etc. However 14 months later I still walked with a stoop and was in constant pain with the remaining muscle damage. The hospital consultant told me they had done all they could so I would be in pain for life

Since moving away from my original yoga teacher I had never had the same depth of experience and often said I would never find another Linda. The day before my Dru Yoga session I pulled myself up when yet again I had, had that thought, “I will never find another Linda”., I changed it to “If I think that I will never find another Linda I never will, so I believe I will find another Linda”.

“Tell me what to do and I will get better”

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Linda had been small blonde and bubbly. I walked into that DRU Yoga class and the teacher was small, blonde and bubbly and I thought “There she is”, this was Annie, one of the founders of DRU Yoga. In the middle of the session Annie said they were starting their first teacher training programme in Manchester, in November. Manchester is my home town and my 50th birthday was November. This was 6 months off and my employers had just introduced a 6 month sabbatical scheme and you had to give 6 months notice – the timing was ideal. I registered and paid there and then, and on the Monday arranged the sabbatical.

3 days before my 50th birthday I began my DRU Yoga Teacher Training course.

When I qualified as a DRU Yoga teacher 2 years later it was the realisation of a dream. However there was another dream – to run a yoga retreat abroad, I had both the hospitality skills and experience as well and now I was the yoga teacher and therapist. However as an only child, unmarried and with no children I knew whilst I still had my Mum it was not possible as she depended on me. Then a few weeks after I qualified she was diagnosed with terminal caner and died 6 weeks later. Even my cat who I had been reluctant to move abroad died, there was no reason not to live my dream and every reason to live it.

positive can do attitude got me through and I bring that belief and strength to my clients, nothing is insurmountable with the right support and mindset.

Then along came the Covid pandemic and my world was again turned upside down, overnight I lost all sources of income. Within hours my wonderful teachers at DRU Yoga got in touch to say they were delivering a masterclass 2 nights later on how to get our classes online – something I would never have contemplated.

I put myself on more courses and developed a fully online business teaching yoga, working 1-1 with clients and teaching EFT. I have found a whole new world, so far I have worked with people in the US, Costa Rica, Europe, Asia and New Zealand and of course all over the UK. There are no limits and something I had been nervous of and felt antipathy towards – that of working with IT – has now become my window on the world.

Adjusting to time differences takes some juggling yet it is manageable, I admire my students and clients who join me early morning, I have a client who attends at 4am her time, or others late at night, and they humble me that they go to such lengths to work with me.

“the most important change is the one inside you”

I sold my parents house and my house, put everything in storage and packed 2 suitcases and flew out to my dream in a Mediterranean country. I loved the life, the culture, the sun and made many wonderful friends. However having bought a house in the perfect location that needed significant renovation I was defrauded by the British builder I employed and ended up on the wrong side of a corrupt council. After 2 years fighting for justice which never came, I decided to return home to the UK. I was penniless, jobless, homeless and heavily in debt and in my mid 50’s. Not a great place to be, I also now recognise that I had a breakdown. However with the help of my dear friends and my own determination I started to rebuild my life, so that 5 years later I was able to buy my own home again, and the celebration for my 60th was a holiday in Rome.

Many people on hearing my story say “Many people would have given up”, yet where would that have left me? For me there was no other option other than to re-build my life. It is true that you can’t fight city hall – although that had been what I had originally tried to do – I knew if I was to come out the winner then I had to re-build my life. It wasn’t easy and there have been some desperate moments, but my friends were always there to help me out. My inner strength and 140

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As I begin my role as Columnist for the Lancashire and North West Magazine, I will introduce you each month to the different techniques I use with my clients to empower them to create and manage positive change. I have claimed the title of The Positive Change Coach as I have faced so many challenging changes in my life be they ones I have chosen or ones I have had thrust upon me yet each time I have come out more knowledgeable of myself and others, gained new skills and explored new worlds – figuratively and literally. All this has been because of my positive mindset and having the tools to overcome any negativity and change it into a positive. As has been my passion since I started on this path I want as many people as possible to benefit from these wonderful techniques so they can live their Best Life.

My younger self, over 40 years ago could never have imagined the twists and turns life would take and the career that is my true calling. Back then people had rarely heard of yoga (my Mum asked me if I joined a cult!), coaching or energy healing. I am looking forward to introducing you to my world either for the first time or more in depth to discover how you can create and manage change – remember the most important change is the one inside you – how you choose to react to a situation dictates how it turns out, this is your power and choice. www.lancmag.com

Head to my website for more information D https://thepositivechangecoach.com For a complimentary 30 min., 1-1 Personal Change Assessment contact me E janetbroughton@thepositivechangecoach.com DRU Yoga classes available live online or via YouTube Y Janet Teaches DRU Yoga

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Raising Awareness of Traumatic Brain Injury

By Joel Newman & Emily Walker

Following his own traumatic experience, Brooke Trotter dedicates his time to raising awareness of his injuries and making the roads a safer place to be.

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rooke was a student in 2007, studying at a university in Manchester. Whilst he was walking home from a night out after seeing a band in Deansgate Locks, a car came racing down the 30 miles per hour road where he was crossing, driving at nearly double the speed limit. Having seen Brooke crossing the road, the car skidded to a stop onto the pavement colliding with Brooke. Due to the speed of the car, Brooke incurred a lot of injuries.

He landed on the bonnet and his head collided with the windshield.

This resulted in a fractured skull, a broken cheekbone, nose and jaw.

Brooke was taken by ambulance to Manchester Royal Infirmary, where due to the severity of his injuries he 142

had to have a drainage procedure to his brain because it was swelling so excessively as a result of his head colliding with the windshield.

The incident was also traumatic for Brooke’s parents. His mum was living in the North East making her 3 hours away at the time and his dad was working out of the country making him difficult to contact. The police alerted Brooke’s mum of the incident by visiting the family home in the early hours of the morning, she was able to speak with a nurse over the telephone who advised she were to come to Manchester as soon as possible as given the severity of the injuries a recovery could not be guaranteed. Soon after, Brooke’s father received a call from his daughter telling him of what happened. He returned to England on the earliest possible flight, nervous to turn his phone off for the flight, not knowing what would have happened when he turned it back on.

When his father arrived at the

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hospital, Brooke was still in a coma, the doctors that were looking after him informed the family that there was only a 30% chance that Brooke would ever wake up from the coma.

The coma lasted 16 days and on the 16th day, Brooke’s eyes finally opened. Opening his eyes was just the start, a common misconception is that at this point all is well however, it was another two weeks before Brooke said his first words. He spoke first to one of the nurses on the ward asking her for half a pint of beer, a moment that enthused Brooke’s family that recovery was in sight.

After awaking in the hospital, Brooke was moved between a few wards before he started to regain memories. He once awoke thinking he was in a hospital in his home town, it wasn’t until he left the building that he realised he was not. He remained in different hospitals for the six months that followed, before being allowed to return to his home in the North East where his parents cared for him for a further six months. www.lancmag.com

Do you feel stuck, or trapped, do you wish things could be different? Do you feel there is no way out? Wonder how you ended up in this position? Do you feel helpless and at the mercy of circumstances? Would you like to experience a proven system that can free you from these feelings? So that you are aware of your choices, one of which is that you can choose how you feel about your circumstances.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO FEEL IN CHARGE OF YOUR LIFE AGAIN? WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE. I have worked with 100’s of clients over the last 15 years allowing them to move from the feeling that there is no way out to one where they are empowered, and with that comes peace of mind. Here’s what two of my clients had to say:

“I have really enjoyed working with Janet. Our sessions together really helped me process a lot of things that were holding me back from living my best life. I feel so much more confident and just overall more excited about this new chapter of my life thanks to my work with Janet. I also really enjoyed DRU yoga classes and really found it relaxing and refreshing. I highly recommend working with Janet regardless of whatever goals/ healing you are hoping to achieve” - MD, Scotland

“Thank you for your help.

I found your therapy to be very beneficial as at the time I was struggling to cope in life. Your aid gave me the relief that I needed. Thank you!”

- DM, Blackburn

Contact me for a complimentary 30 min. 1-1 Life Assessment Survey to explore how I can help you change your life for the better E JanetBroughton@ThePositiveChangeCoach.com Y Janet Teaches DRU Yoga

F @thepositivechangecoach.janet

https://ThePositiveChangeCoach.com

 Brooke informed us that as a general rule for head injuries, you don’t know how bad you are until you look back so you can see how far you’ve come. Initially he described waking up as being like having a filing cabinet tip over and the recovery is like having to put all those files away in the right order, you can get close but it’s never going to be exactly the same. Brooke has worked hard to recover for the last 14 years but there he explains there are still some difficulties that he faces such as his brain been able to fuse the images from each eye so he may see double especially when reading and also being tired more frequently than before.

On the road to recovery Brooke found social media could be very detrimental. He saw snapshots of other people his age and felt behind. He wanted to catch up and moved back to Manchester as soon as was possible. It was while he was back there that Brooke read an article; the top three things that scare people, these being; death, spiders and public speaking. This encouraged him to push himself, and try and face something that others were scared of, to make sure he was ahead in at least one area, which is how he started to do public speaking.

Public speaking allowed Brooke to raise awareness of what had happened to him. He started doing what he and his family referred to as ‘gigs’ in the local schools. This is where he began to grow confidence and set the foundations for the large audiences and conferences he would address in the future. Fourteen years on from the incident, Brooke now speaks to large crowds on behalf of charities and alongside the emergency services telling his story at sixth forms and colleges. Further to this, once returning to Manchester Brooke started to be a speaker for Safe Drive and Stay Alive, a cause focusing on the importance of road safety which explore unique aspects of road safety such as passenger responsibility and the potential reform ideas in regards to the consequences of taking risks on the road.

Given what had happened to Brooke and considering how it affected him and his family, it was of great importance that road safety was an area where there was greater awareness and understanding and through all the work that Brooke did, significantly more of the population became aware of the implications of driving irresponsibly.

In addition to the work spreading awareness of road traffic incidents, Brooke also helps law students to understand the process of cases regarding road traffic accidents and demonstrating the human element behind the cases that before may not have been fully contemplated.

For more about Brooke and to follow his story, follow his blog at: www.braininjurybrooke.co.uk

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All

that they can be.

A SPRINGBOARD TO A LIFE OF PURPOSE The leading Catholic co-educational boarding and day school in the Ribble Valley, Lancashire.

For pupils aged 3-18 years, with full and weekly boarding options available.

Scholarships available

Enhanced pathways for exceptional individuals Scholarships include music, drama & theatre, art and academics DISCOVER MORE AT: WWW.STONYHURST.AC.UK/SCHOLARSHIPS

STONYHURST PUPILS TACKLE CLIMATE CHANGE

In November pupils at Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall took part in an event designed to act against climate change. The outreach education project was led by a host of impressive climate experts, activists and authors.

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D

uring the final week of the 26th United Nations Climate Change conference (COP26), pupils from Stonyhurst’s Prep School took part in an event designed to act against climate change. Children at the independent school in Lancashire were presented with a host of engaging workshops hosted by ‘Creature’, an outreach education project, led by a host of impressive climate experts, activists and authors.

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Ian Murphy, Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall Headmaster said: “We couldn’t miss this wonderful opportunity to put COP26 as top priority for the children. Our pupils are the agents of positive change today, and in many years to come.

They understand the urgency and can increasingly hear the ‘cry of the earth, and the cry of the poor’, acting immediately, both individually and collectively.’’

80 years, unless there is swift action.

With this in mind, and with COP26 in full swing, the event, which was funded and hosted by Stonyhurst, was designed to engage and inspire school pupils to act against the disastrous effect of global warming.

Creature state that in the latest scientific report, there is currently a 50:50 chance of global climates rising above 1.5 degree Celsius in the next 20 years. Even with every pledge made from world leaders to date, temperatures are still on track for a 2.7 degree Celsius rise in the next

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Over the course of two days 24 workshops were presented at the school by distinguished experts from various industries, with multiple virtual lessons being held by experts and organisations from around the world. Notable speakers included Jack Randall (Zoologist, Filmmaker and National Geographic Presenter) who started out his career as Steve Irwin’s apprentice at aged 14. Jack presented real-life creatures during his talk with St Mary’s Hall pupils, including a snake, tarantula and cane toad and shared his adventures from around the world, speaking about the effects of climate change on wildlife in the modern world.

Stonyhurst pupils heard first hand witness accounts from those working in the front lines of conservation and humanitarianism, focusing on: disaster relief, extreme weather, biodiversity loss, carbon storage technology and food consumption.

Another speaker, award winning author and campaigner James Sellick, spoke about the impacts of palm oil and industrial meat production as well as his experiences creating large scale campaigns with Greenpeace.

During the event St Mary’s Hall pupils were curious and engaged about the issues facing the earth.

There was a particular emphasis upon the plight of the world’s poorest and most vulnerable communities, and the exaggerated and disproportionate impact climate change is causing in many of the developing countries of the planet. Pupils are now keen to actively assimilate their knowledge and embrace their own lifestyle changes to help protect the planet and all its people for future generations, enabling them to become ‘men and women for others.’

The outreach education project, Creature, was founded by author and eco journalist Sarah Roberts, whose first picture book, ‘Somebody Swallowed Stanley’, was read out on CBeebies bedtime stories by Tom Hardy in March 2021.

www.stonyhurst.ac.uk Admissions: 01254 827073

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DEBORAH LILITH HATSWELL is a phenomenonist,

writer, podcaster, Investigator and the founding member of the Being Believed Research and Investigations group. Deborah is the UK’s leading expert on the British Bigfoot and Dogman phenomenon and she has taken or researched over 3000 personal witness reports from all across the globe. Deborah is based in Lancashire and has formed a team of volunteer investigators researching the many witness reports that are reported each week to BBR.

Deborah is a witness herself to an impossible creature that she saw in 1982: “It took 30 years for me to find an official body that would take myself and my experience seriously. During those years, I found thousands of people in a similar position.

Their experiences were with Reptilian or Cryptid

Creatures, Alien Beings and Shadow People, Invisible Entities and all manner of Dimensional Entities. Many of the witnesses are abductees who have had a lifetime of interaction. Some families have had to deal with phenomena for generations.

There are cattle mutilations and missing people all across the UK.” Deborah set up BBR to help those people find somewhere they could report their experiences to and encourages them to investigate the cases and theories for themselves.

Now it is time to bring all of the so-called ‘alternative subjects’ under the same roof and let’s share our knowledge bases in the hopes of answering some of the still unanswered questions...

Willie, he was evasive about where he had been and who had accompanied him.

On May 29, 1787 - Which was Whit Sunday - the pair met again by the ford for the fateful last time. A quarrel ensued and ended with Willie riding off, leaving the distraught Kitty standing alone, by her tree. The next morning Kitty’s body was found, her white sark, a kind of shirt or smock, was found in the pool below the ford.

Her other garments were strewn across four fields.

SHE HAUNTS THE MOOR - SARKLESS KITTY & TINY WET FOOTPRINTS Hutton-le-Hole is a small popular scenic village nestled within the North York Moors National Park.

The village is so sleepy sheep still roam the streets at will. The village is mentioned in the Domesday Book which is dated 1086. The name Hutton-le-Hole means the ‘place of the burial ground near the hollow.’

One of the streams beside the salon is called ‘Fairy Call Beck’.

One local legend tells the tale of Kitty Garthwaite, a servant girl from Gillamoor, a village a short walk away.

The legend claims Kitty has haunted the North Yorkshire Moors for several centuries. Kitty Garthwaite was engaged to Willie Dixon who abided in Hutton-le-Hole. After they quarrelled one day in 1787, Willie rode off on his horse and Kitty’s body was found later floating in the river.

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Rumours swirled around Kitty’s fate, many locals believing she was with child, around 7 months in fact, and that Willie had no real interest in marrying her. Kitty waited at the ford (a crossing place over the river) for Willie to return with a marriage licence. Willie never turned up.

Heading back to the village Kitty heard rumours that Willie had been seen that day with the daughter of a wealthy farmer in Castleton, over the moors purchasing a marriage licence. The next time Kitty saw

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Aware of the trouble between Kitty and Willie, villagers concluded that the jilted girl had set off back for Gillamoor but had decided to drown herself. Distraught, she had cast off her clothes as she ran to the ford, where she plunged in naked except for her sark.

Kitty’s body was laid out in a barn at Lowna Mill, situated near the ford. The miller’s wife, Mrs Agar saw to Kitty and she removed and washed the sark and hung it by the body to dry. Kitty was carefully covered up with clean sacks.

Willie went to see Kitty. But he discovered that Kitty’s body and her sark had completely vanished.

Only the sacks remained, neatly folded in a corner.

Willie spent the rest of the day searching for Kitty. On his horse, he called for her everywhere. At dusk he was seen riding along the old bridleway between Low Mill and Lowna. But by the next

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morning his horse was found grazing near Lowna Mill. His body when found was laying in the same pool in which Kitty had been drowned. ‘Sarkless Kitty’, as she was henceforth called, had claimed her first man.

A few weeks later two Huttonle-Hole children arrived home breathless, claiming to have just seen Kitty at the ford - and she was ‘stark nak’t’. The children said Kitty was sitting on her usual tree, she smiled down at them and waved her sark as if to beckon them closer. Accused of being dishonest the parents stated that the children were no doubt ‘dirty little liars’, so the children were smartly scolded and sent up to bed.

In October of that same year, the horse of a well-known traveller who was often seen across the moors trotted riderless up to the Royal Oak Inn, Gillamoor. The poor man’s body was found in the morning floating in Kitty’s pool.

Over the next few years 16 more men in total, were drowned in the pool. Locals were convinced that Kitty’s ghost startled the men’s horses, which reared up and threw the riders. Several local men claimed to have seen Kitty’s ghost as they were ‘aiming f’t cross tha ford’. The men said Kitty was always clutching her white sark, the ‘nakt’ Kitty was sometimes seen sitting on her tree, sometimes running on the bank, and sometimes in the ford itself. Not wanting to be one

of Kitty’s victims, the local men turned back.

But it was the death of the final victim, Kitty’s 18th victim that caused the most upset, for he was not a stranger travelling across the moor, this lad was a popular and hard-working young farmer, his death persuaded people something must be done. So they ordered a priest to bless the ford and the young man’s body. The vicar conducted the blessing with the assistance of two choristers, one holding a lighted candle, the other ringing a bell. Kitty’s ghost has never reappeared.

A short walk away across the moor from where the dog salon sits is the slightly larger village of Kirkbymoorside which was no doubt visited by Kitty and the fly by night Willie at some point in their lives, being the closest marketplace to their home village.

Kirkbymoorside was known as a trading hub even before 1254.

It was on that date the area was officially recorded as a market town.

People from all of the neighbouring villages and farms from far and wide would have attended the market and the fairings that were

held there. Farmers, Tinkers, Merchants, Landowners, Pedlars, Craftsmen and women would sell their wares, shop for goods, meet friends and loved ones and also to find employment or your future love. For some working class people they would only be able to attend the market on their one afternoon off each month.

Whilst researching Kitty’s case I came across a landlord who was based at one of the village pubs in Hutton le Hole who explained he and one fellow inn keeper saw small footprints form on the wet stone floor.

Little Wet Footprints - “Many years ago when I was a landlord of the White Horse Kirkbymoorside I would sometimes go over to see Steve, my friend who was the landlord of the Black Swan to see how his night had gone. We would normally just chat about the night in general. One night when I went over he was mopping the floor behind the bar when I arrived.

We were standing there chatting for a few minutes when Steve noticed some small footprints that had started to show up on the wet stone floor. The footprints were the size of a small child’s foot. Whatever was leaving them walked right up to where we were both stood talking and then they walked away again.

It was very strange indeed.”

...Until next time, Deborah

E debbiehatswell@gmail.com | D debhatswell.wordpress.com | T BbrDeborah

PATREON: www.patreon.com/DeborahHatswellBigfootReports YOUTUBE: www.youtube.com/channel/UCYGn8pR90PO_oBzO jiZ23tA/ SPREAKER: www.spreaker.com/show/british-bigfoot APPLE PODCASTS: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/british-bigfoot-dogman/id1480592906?uo=4

Travel Light System

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inally, the world of travel and adventure is reopening up with amendment of the travel light system last month. Travellers are returning from destinations such as Mexico, South Africa and Maldives to name a few of those tropical destinations we have all been missing.

However, we still need to be extra vigilant as there are still some travel rules that can catch you out. Making the need for a trusted travel advisor and expert now more important than ever before so I thought I would highlight some of the ones that I have been made aware of and need to advise my clients about now we are

moving forward with new bookings.

Not only do we have Covid regulations in place for departing and returning to the UK, we also have the countries we are travelling to and their regulations in place, not to mention new Brexit rules in place. We also need to be especially aware of the rules that apply to unvaccinated children as that is a whole new minefield of travel related admin. Some countries demand children over the age of one to have received a negative PCR test result, while other countries are not even allowing unvaccinated over 12’s completely.

France has introduced a travel health pass, like many countries in Europe.

This pass is not only required for travel but also for access to restaurants and museums, etc. This shows full information in relation to the full vaccination, any results form recent tests which are negative or evidence of recovery from Covid. Since the majority of 12-17 years olds are unvaccinated, they will need to have evidence of the negative test taken within 72 hours when wishing to enter some of the tourist hotspots in France. This test must also be taken in France for entry to venues, in addition to the per departure test required for entering France. So, this can lead to multiple tests being taken every 3 days or so. These tests are no longer free in France either so additional unforeseen costs unless you are well advised and planned in advance.

The next thing to consider is regarding the vaccine certificate the majority of us now have to travel with. Some countries are now advising that certificates that issued to those who were second jabbed more than 270 days earlier (nine months) will not be accepted. Therefore, the booster jabs which are now being rolled

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out across the UK are a necessity for travel onwards after January next year. Obviously these are now being rolled out to the over 50’s so this rule is ore for the younger travellers such as myself and my family.

Brexit rules mean that now when travelling within Europe you must have at least six months of validity on your passports rather than just being valid for the duration of your stay previously. Some UK passports have an additional 9 months in addition to the normal validity, but the EU now ignores these additional nine months so please make sure you have double checked all passport validity on the below link for any travel within the EU: https://www.gov.uk/ check-a-passport-travel-europe The Maldives has been one of the most booked destinations since the easing of travel restrictions for so many of us wanting to quench the wanderlust that has been building for a while now. They are however of the countries that do require a negative PCR test result within 96 hours of arrival for all children aged over one year old. These rules are liable to change at any given time so always need to be checked.

holiday. Some countries have rules in relation to night curfews, a lot of the Caribbean islands have these in place such as no movement at weekends.

Some places have restrictions in relation to quarantine upon arrival for 48 hours until you have your result of the arrival test and then you have to wear colour coded bands to show these results. Some countries have ‘sandbox schemes’ so travel to lots of destinations in Asia are much easier. This means that depending again on rules which change all the time certain parts of you your dream holiday is open for you to be able to access.

I can say finally that we are now most definitely seeing travel open back up with much more ease than before thankfully for us all. With the USA now being the second most booked destination for next year

after the Biden administration lifted its ban. The theme parks, national parks and all the wonders of the US are beginning to draw the UK tourists back in their droves. The surge for last minute holidays I have received for Dubai and The Maldives has been amazing and I am now so thankful to be back at what I love doing which is helping peoples dreams come true again!.

KARLA MCCULLOCH TRAVEL COUNSELLOR N 01617 440025 07515 945781 E karla.mcculloch@ travelcounsellors.com D tctravelmanagement.co.uk/ karla.mcculloch F facebook.com/KarMcC06

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How To Become a Master at Talking to Strangers

By Megha Seth

Human beings are social animals, our primal instinct is to establish a connection with another fellow being. This habit is socialized over the years as we set boundaries and become selective.

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o individual can exist in isolation, we have our primary circle and our social circle. Many of us rarely interact beyond that circle. But there is a whole wide world outside the circle, with a diverse range of people, settings, environments, cultures, information and opportunities waiting to be exchanged and explored.

A research paper published by Social Psychological and Personality Science shows that even a small amount of social interaction, like chatting with a person on the train or even a person next to you in the queue at the grocery store, helps boost mood. It leads to a feeling of belongingness and keeps isolation at bay. Initiating a conversation with strangers is not always an easy task. But there are several keynotes that you can follow to start with it.

BENEFITS OF TALKING TO STRANGERS Wondering if you should even try talking to strangers?

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Networking Networking is helpful in increasing the linkages within and external to your social networks, which can be successfully leveraged to achieve not only the requisite financial and professional objectives but also build a healthier sense of emotional belonging and sense of self.

Gain New Perspectives Our world-views are a function of experiences which are as varied and diverse as existence itself. Exposing ourselves to different and conflicting perspectives can help enlarge and reinvigorate our own perspectives.

Improved Social Skills Usually, extroverts can naturally initiate conversations.

But it does not always have to be this way. When you practice approaching strangers and initiating conversations with them, you also help yourself by strengthening your social skills.

Open Up a World of Possibilities Opportunities are always waiting to be explored. They could be in the form of strangers you choose to initiate conversations with. You only miss one hundred percent of the opportunities you don’t take. You have no idea of what to expect from an interaction until and unless you step up and initiate conversations with a stranger.  www.lancmag.com

MASTER THE ART OF TALKING TO STRANGERS Talking to strangers and mastering the practice has three main parts: approaching strangers, knowing what to say and managing your feelings throughout it all.

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Be Relaxed and Warm Initiating conversations with a stranger is not the same as talking to your partner, family or circle of close friends. It is an evolutionary trait that our bodies are always releasing endorphins to fight or flight. We have looked at strangers with some sort of a distrust while growing up as part of our socialization but every other person out there is probably not a sociopath.

Treat a stranger the same way you would treat a friend.

A warm personality is always helpful in making people around you feel comfortable to open up. When comfortable, you can take the next step and ask about how they are or make a remark about something around you. Small talk isn’t always boring, they are a gateway to initiating more detailed conversations.

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Ask The Right Questions Asking questions is an important way to get to know someone. Boring or robotic questions kill the flow of the conversation real quick. The questions need not be too personal but they should reflect a keen interest in what the other person has to say.

Do not ask extremely personal questions the very moment you start interacting with strangers as this might come across as too nosy.

3

Find Commonalities Finding some common ground is the best way to start a conversation with someone.

There are various settings for talking to strangers and meeting new people. Events or conventions are already a good place to begin when you are looking for someone with similar interests, be it comics, movies or history.

In a more diverse, generalized space, try looking for mutual interests. Ask them what they like pursuing for pleasure or in their spare time. If the person is into similar things as you are, there lies your scope for an engrossing conversation.

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Signal Friendliness With Body Language Body language is a part of non-verbal communication. The interpretation of body language is known as kinesics.

Your posture, gestures, facial expressions, all convey information. In order to appear more approachable and not ward off people away with a closed off attitude, try working on your body language while approaching strangers.

You can signal friendliness with your body language by smiling, nodding your head, using arm gestures, and having a relaxed posture with arms at your side when not gesturing, and making eye contact. After all, body language goes hand in hand with verbal communication in a social interaction.

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Keep The Conversation Light Beginning a conversation with intense topics isn’t always the ideal thing to do until and unless you find someone who is as keen as discussing politics or climate change like you are for an opener. www.lancmag.com

But most of the time, beginning conversations on a simpler or lighter note gives way to a more relaxed setting while keeping awkward silences at bay. You can then proceed to talk about topics that interest you both in getting a favourable response, no matter how intense!

The trick is to avoid doing 90 percent of the talking and being a good listener instead.

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Use A Positive Tone Of Voice Your tone of voice is as important as the things you say. Sounding upbeat or at least neutral expresses an interest while holding a conversation. Avoid mumbling, speak clearly and look and direct your voice at the other person in order to appear confident.

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Learn To Read Set Boundaries Not everyone is up for a quick chat on the subway or a grocery store.

Not everyone is under the compulsion to exchange niceties. So it is important to be able to read the “stayaway” signals.

Wearing headphones, turning away their body from someone as they see them approaching, reading, giving monosyllabic answers as they look away from you—these could all be stay-away signals.

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Set Social Goals Extroverts are naturally good at initiating conversations. If you feel jittery at the thought of talking to someone new, set social goals or challenge yourself with a task. Try getting the name of three strangers at a networking event. The more specific the goals, the likelier you are to be in achieving them.

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Focus On The Other Person It is really tough to not focus on the other person and feel nervous about it. However, this is a great thing as you begin to focus on what the other person has to say, it helps you eradicate feelings of nervousness while also making you a good listener.

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Push Past Awkwardness When was the last time you had a decent conversation with a stranger without feeling awkward? Research from social psychologists show that surmounting your own social barriers and making even the most minimal social interactions helps boost mood, no matter what the social setting is.

With greater interconnectedness becoming a regular feature of our lives with every passing day, it becomes imperative to seize every opportunity that presents itself to interact with another fellow being. This helps us enlarge our consciousness while enhancing the feeling of belonging.

Social psychologists have shown that emotions can jump from one human being to another during a social interaction. Thus, we should take advantage of this opportunity to facilitate our well-being by interacting with more and more positive and well meaning strangers who could also have a net positive impact on our lives. n

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I am Janet and I am your resident Positive Change Coach bringing you techniques and insights to help you navigate the changes in your life positively. I have 15 years experience and now work globally from Costa Rica to New Zealand and everywhere in-between.

My first foray into the world of personal development was joining a Yoga class.

Yoga became the hour in the week that kept me sane. Yoga is so much more than exercise. It creates balance in the emotions and the mind via balancing the body. We practice everything on both sides in both directions.

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e have a left and right brain with completely different roles – left for logic, right for romance.

The left brain keeps us grounded, maintains our filing cabinet of facts and our diary. The right brain is our imagination, our creative side whether that is new ideas or problem solving, it gives us our emotions. We need both to function, should we loose our left brain function then right brain has free reign to imagine the impossible, it removes restriction, place your hand on a wall and you will no longer see a hand and a wall but a wonderful merging of both, you would place your hand in a fire as you don’t know it will burn you. Remove the right brain function and we live life in a very limited way, facts but no feelings.

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Through yoga we can synchronise left and right brain so we can balance facts with feelings.

I teach DRU Yoga – DRU in Sanskrit (the language of yoga) means “Still Point”, through the flow of the movement we find the stillness within.

DRU is a combination of classic yoga postures with the flow of T’ai Chi. We work with the body rather than against it. DRU is soft, gentle and flowing, we take our time, really connect with our bodies.

A DRU Yoga class begins with a warm up, then we perform an “Energy Block Release Sequence”. As the name implies, this is a series of movements to start to unblock the tension in the

body. The sequences vary in content and length, I like to theme my classes so we are working to an overall goal to the completion of the class.

“DRU is soft, gentle and flowing, we take our time, really connect with our bodies” We then do some preparation stretches and then the postures, a breathing exercise and complete with Relaxation/Meditation.

Many people are reluctant to join a yoga class as “I am not bendy enough”, “I am too fat/old/stiff”, “I will look stupid”, “I will hold up the rest of the class up”. I hear all these on a regular basis. I have spent most of my life teaching adults 16 – 90 in further and higher education. Do you join a language class if you can already speak the language? You come to a class to learn. Yoga is not a competition, you will find some things easier than others.

We are all working towards – including me! And when you achieve something for the first time, we celebrate that achievement. DRU is a very accessible form of yoga and I give students ways of adapting the postures to suit their needs. Joining a yoga class will change your life for the better – go for it!

Head to my website for more information D https://thepositivechangecoach.com For a complimentary 30 min., 1-1 Personal Change Assessment contact me E janetbroughton@thepositivechangecoach.com DRU Yoga classes available live online or via YouTube Y Janet Teaches DRU Yoga

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The Dukes Theatre Announce Cast & Creative Team For BEAUTY & THE BEAST The production will play in The Dukes’ Round Theatre from 3-31 December The Dukes in Lancaster have announced the full cast and creative team for their upcoming in-the-round production of Beauty & the Beast, which is part of the theatre’s 50th Anniversary season and will play in The Dukes’ Round Theatre from 3-31 December.

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eauty & the Beast will welcome back the creative team of Daniel Bye (writer & co-director) and Sarah Punshon (co-director), who previously collaborated on The Dukes’ highly acclaimed productions of Cinderella: A Fairytale and Sleeping Beauty This brand-new production will provide a thoroughly festive adventure for all audiences; promising to be filled with magic, dancing and songs that everyone will love to sing along to.

Bella and her mother live alone in the countryside, scrimping and saving to make ends meet. But, not far from their farm, in the forest, there is a

terrible secret waiting to be uncovered that has made the land barren.

Kidnapped by the fearsome Beast, Bella discovers that he might not be the mean-spirited creature that she has been told about - and that the curse he is under can be broken.

The production will also see the return of Katie Scott (designer), Ziad Jabero (composer) and Zak PhillipsYates (choreographer) with the creative team also including Brent Lees (lighting design), Kate Harvey (sound design), Louise Manifold (stage manager), Amy Chandler (production manager), Emily Bull (deputy stage manager), Georgia Leech (assistant stage manager), Ann Preston and Katie Duxbury (wardrobe supervision).

The full cast of Beauty & the Beast are Andrea Crewe as Mum, Lisa Howard as Gardener, Ida Regan as Bella, Tarek Slater as Beast and Declan Wilson as Lionel.

Lisa Howard returns to The Dukes after previously appearing in their productions of Grimm Tales, Pinocchio, Jason and the Argonauts, Robin Hood and Ladies That Bus (co-

produced with The Brewery Kendal and Theatre by the Lake Keswick) and Ida Regan will be making her professional theatrical debut in the role of Bella after graduating from Manchester School of Theatre in 2020.

Over the next month our cast will be working with our Writer and CoDirector Daniel Bye and Co- Director Sarah Punshon both of who you will be familiar with from previous productions; Sleeping Beauty (2021) and more recently this years park show production of Grimm Tales (2021) to bring you a Christmas production that you’ll remember forever!

Both Sarah and Daniel will be supported by Brent Lee’s who will be creating a wonderful lighting design as he has for many years both for The Dukes, Light Up Lancaster, Highest Point Festival and the year round illumination of Williamson Parks Ashton Memorial. Costume and Set Design is created by the talented Katie Scott who returns to The Dukes to dazzle audiences with her beautiful set design and eye-catching costume.

The Cast of Beauty & the Beast on day 1 of rehearsals

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Beauty & the Beast - Done Dukes-style...the story...

B

ella and her mother live alone in the countryside, scrimping and saving to make ends meet. But, not far from their farm, in the forest, there is a terrible secret waiting to be uncovered that has made the land barren.

Kidnapped by the fearsome Beast, Bella discovers that he might not be the mean-spirited creature that she has been told about – and that the curse he is under can be broken.

Filled with magic, dancing and songs that you’ll love to sing along to, this is Beauty & The Beast done Dukes-style is a truely magical Christmas treat!

Written by Daniel Bye Directed by Daniel Bye & Sarah Punshon

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Beauty and The Beast marks 50 Years of The Dukes Theatre and since opening the doors in 1971, The Dukes has been committed to placing arts and culture at the heart of the Lancashire and Lancaster City region. As Lancashire’s only producing theatre, over the years The Dukes has welcomed the likes of Dame Harriet Walter, Gloria Grahame, Andy Serkis and most recently, Sir Ian McKellen.

The Dukes’ Chief Executive Karen O’Neill said of leading the theatre into its next 50 years, “It is so wonderful to be celebrating the Dukes 50th Birthday! This is a milestone year for the Dukes and we are so pleased to be sharing it with our team, volunteers, audiences, artists and community. The Dukes has been at the heart of Lancaster since 1971 as both a theatre and independent cinema and has achieved so much since then. We are so proud of the Dukes’ legacy and thank everyone who has been part of the journey so far. We are so excited for the future and we look forward to creating more memories, creative projects and continuing to be part of what makes Lancaster a great place to visit or call home. Thank you to our core funders Arts Council England and Lancaster City Council and to all our supporters, partners, funders, audiences and creative professionals. Here’s to the next 50 years!”

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A Belly Full of Laughs as The Dukes Theatre announce new season If you’re looking for an evening of belly laughs, edgy comedy and laugh our load musical numbers then The Dukes is the place to be next season for all of your favourite comedy acts.

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rom Jamali Maddix to Tony Law, from Flo & Jo to Count Arthur Strong - The Dukes play host to a host of some of the UK’s hottest comedy acts and with some of the shows approaching sell out we suggest you act now to avoid missing out…

Luke Kempner: Macho Macho Man

Steph’s Packed Lunch (Channel 4), The Last Leg (Channel 4) The StandUp Sketch Show (ITV2), Love Island: Aftersun (ITV2) and The Now Show (BBC Radio 4) Where: The Dukes, Lancaster When: SAT 5th FEB Time: 8PM Tickets: £16

Tony Law ‘A Now Begin In Again’ Neanderthal Canadian Trinidadian Northern Irish Loon Law. Tony Law brings his half baked thoughts on the last couple of years and a little time travel to boot. It might not always make sense but it’s always funny. Farm boy blue-collar surreal absurdity in his own very unique style. For those with a different take or taste in comedy.

Where: The Dukes, Lancaster When: FRI 21 JAN Time: 8PM Tickets: £13.50

Fern Brady: Autistic Bikini Queen Following a sold-out tour across Europe and Australia in 2019 and her most recent BBC stand up special Power & Chaos, Fern Brady brings her fifth solo show Brain on a nationwide tour. As seen on Live at the Apollo, Frankie Boyle’s New World Order, Roast Battle, Russell Howard, Jonathan Ross’ Comedy Club. As heard on BBC Sound’s Wheel of Misfortune podcast, the News Quiz and the Now Show.

Where: The Dukes, Lancaster When: SAT 29TH JAN Time: 8PM Tickets: £17 www.lancmag.com

Star of Spitting Image, Steph’s Packed Lunch and with over 10 million views of his online videos, Luke Kempner is one of the UK’s hottest mimics and stand-up comics. With a hilariously razor sharp roster of contemporary impressions ranging from Piers Morgan and Bojo to Ru Paul, Luke has become a household name and is bringing his highly anticipated brand-new show, Macho Macho Man on the road.

Luke is a Macho Macho Man. He came up with the title whilst listening to his Les Mis album for the 28,000th time. Luke tries to work out what masculinity really means with the help of Louis Theroux, the cast of Downton Abbey and even Jürgen Klopp. Luke struggles to fit in, between turning up to a dance audition in football boots to falling in love with a “cool guy” that sits in the row in front of him at the football. Will Luke ever become the Macho Macho Man he dreams of?

Don’t miss this remarkable one-man show from one of Britain’s most exciting, new comedy talents. Macho Macho Man follows Luke’s previous show House of Faces, which sold out at the Edinburgh Fringe and toured nationwide in 2019. As seen (and heard) on Spitting Image (Britbox),

Ahir Shah: Dress Featuring his signature blend of philosophical inquiry, personal examination, and sweet gags, Double Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee Ahir Shah returns to stand up with a new show about significance, insignificance, and scurvy. Ahir’s last show, Dots, was recorded as a special for HBO Max (albeit after a 14 month delay brought about by events you may recall). That show was about uncertainty. Ideally, this tour will end in a way that is less on the nose.

As seen on Mock The Week, Live At the Apollo, Have I Got News For You, and The Mash Report.

‘Intricately crafted, profoundly moving, howlingly funny ... a blazing talent firing on all cylinders’ Telegraph ‘Tremendously thoughtful, woundedly candid and selflaceratingly funny Scotsman “It’s a highly personal howl in the dark from this sharpest of operators.

Impassioned, probing and unexpectedly moving.” Mail on Sunday Where: The Dukes, Lancaster When: SAT 5th FEB Time: 8PM Tickets: £16

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 Jamali Maddix: King Crud Hot on the heels of his success on This is My House (BBC1) and Taskmaster (Channel 4) Jamali Maddix is hitting the road again with his new show, KING CRUD. A radical raconteur Jamali broke records with his debut documentary series Hate Thy Neighbor in 2017, which, broadcasting on VICELAND, became the channel’s highest rated show globally. The series saw Jamali navigate America’s deepest south and roughest prisons, explore rising racial tensions in Britain and Europe and anti-assimilation groups in Israel interspersed with honest narration in the form of his cuttingedge stand-up; “I’m not qualified for this role I’ll be honest with you…. I am just a comedian”. Returning for a second run for the following year, Jamali travelled back to the states focusing on demonstrations by prolifer groups, vigilante border patrols and thirdwave feminists.

Jamali returns to UK venues with his latest show KING CRUD which draws upon the issues of morality and justice as well as Jamali’s own personal growth and experiential learnings; all delivered with his natural charm, confidence and sensitivity that leaves many of his contemporaries behind.

With a string of new projects on the go Jamali is also recognisable from appearances on Live At The Apollo, Frankie Boyle’s New World Order, 8 Out Of 10 Cats, Dara O Briain’s Go 8-Bit and many more shows.

Where: The Dukes, Lancaster When: SAT 26TH FEB Time: 8PM Tickets: £14

Flo & Joan: Sweet Release 160

Multi-award winning musical comedy duo (and sisters) Flo & Joan are climbing out of their pits, armed with a piano and percussion section to bring you a brand new show of their critically acclaimed songs and comedy. Their unique, sharp-tongued style has taken them around the world with multiple sell-out tours and appearances at the Just For Laughs Festival Montreal and Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Now they are back with their biggest ever UK national tour, poking around all the classic topics of the day: overthinking, alien lovers and fringes. As seen on Live at the Apollo (BBC2), The Royal Variety Performance (ITV), The Russell Howard Hour (Sky), Jonathan Ross’ Comedy Club (ITV), online with over 50 million views of their viral songs, in your personal nightmares, and in ‘Alive on Stage’, their own special available worldwide on Amazon Prime.  The Telegraph  The Guardian Sunday Times Where: The Dukes, Lancaster When: SAT 12TH MARCH Time: 8PM Tickets: £17

Count Arthur Strong: And this is me!

Count Arthur Strong will be returning to The Dukes for his twentieth-anniversary tour on Thursday 31 March 2022. After many years of giving his wonderful lecture talks of his he does, Count Arthur Strong has at last bowed to substantial public demand and allowed himself be talked into making the show about himself for once. And that had never occurred to him before because of him being highly magnanimous.

From his breakthrough Edinburgh Fringe show ‘Forgotten Egypt’ in 2002, to talking about himself in 2022. Arthur has two decades of memories from his ten national tours,15 years of his multi Award winning radio show and three series of his BAFTA nominated TV sitcom.

Where: The Dukes, Lancaster When: THURS 31ST MARCH Time: 8PM Tickets: £22

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE

Simon Brodkin: Trouble Maker

World-famous prankster and creator of the hugely popular Lee Nelson, is back on stage with TROUBLEMAKER, his sensational new stand-up show, NOW EXTENDED INTO 2022 DUE TO OVERWHELMING DEMAND! After showering Sepp Blatter with banknotes, upstaging Kanye West at Glastonbury, and handing Theresa May her P45, the critically acclaimed comedian explores why trouble has followed him from primary school through medical school to lockdown homeschool. And what it’s like to be chased by Donald Trump’s bodyguards, how to make the police laugh while they’re arresting you, and what to do when you’re outed as a Jew by the Ku Klux Klan.

Simon is one of Britain’s most loved comedians following his smash hit BBC shows Lee Nelson’s Well Good Show & Well Funny People, Channel 4’s award-nominated Britain’s Biggest Hoaxer and multiple TV appearances (Live at the Apollo, Sunday Night at the Palladium, The John Bishop Christmas Show, Children In Need, & Channel 4’s Comedy Gala).

Where: The Dukes, Lancaster When: FRI 1st APRIL Time: 8PM Tickets: £21 With a host of amazing comedy from established and rising stars you’ll find it hard not to find something to match your humour! So visit our bar, grab yourself a drink and sit back and let these fantastic folk entertain you.

Tickets for all of our events can be booked in advance by visiting www.dukeslancaster. org or ringing The Dukes Box Office on 01524 598500 M The Dukes, Moor Lane, Lancaster LA1 1QE E Booking Enquiries: tickets@dukeslancaster.org E General Enquiries: ask@dukeslancaster.org

www.lancmag.com

Wreath making workshop 10 am - 3pm Wednesday 1st and 8th December 2021

£65.00

Lunch and refreshments included

Explore your own creativity with our traditional wreath making host Mandy!

Create your own personalised wreath to adorn your door or give as a gift this Festive period. Foliage and decorations provided but you may wish to bring your own personal items to add.

HAPPA, Shores Hey Farm, Burnley, BB10 3QU For more details and to book visit www.happa.org.uk

B

usiness woman and entrepreneur Karen Todd has created a brand new business.

Finally fulfilling a lifelong ambition to be part of the fashion industry. ‘’As a teenager, I always followed fashion avidly. I loved to experiment and create different identities through the clothing I wore. Having studied Fashion Design at college, I found myself in the retail world. As a manager for major high street fashion companies, I began to find the industry a little constructive. Companies were more, understandably focused on their high profits, rather than creating an experience for the shopper. It was time for a career change, the fitness industry beckoned.

A decade later, another string to my bow was added. As a creative person, I decided to add Hair Stylist to my portfolio. Both areas of my career were perfect, they enabled me to be there for my young daughters.

Still something was missing, deep in my heart I knew my one, true passion was always fashion. I turned an unfortunate change in my life into a positive. I realised that now my dream was finally possible. Fate had decided, with the support of my partner Neville and best friend Sophie, KT Boutique was realised.

KT Boutique’s ethos is ‘Fashion for Everyone’. I want all women to feel included and worthy. With fashion forward clothing in sizes 6 – 26, I feel we are on the road to achieving this.

The store on Market Street, Chorley, is fresh, fabulous and an Instagramer’s dream! I have tried to create a destination store. Whether you’re a serious shopperholic or just fancy a selfie in our lounge, KT Boutique makes everyone feel welcome.

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The website www.ktboutique.co.uk launched on the 1st November. You will find new online exclusive fashion.

Clients can check our in-store lines too, all available for postal throughout the UK. Our favourite part of the website is our #imwearingktboutique picture gallery. Our lines are updated weekly, fashion never sleeps at KT Boutique.

Another side of the business is how we utilise the stores amazing décor. The first floor is a space perfect for photoshoots. You can rent the space 7 days a week. Our Boutique Bachelorette and Party Packages are available too. Our KT Boutique Glam package ensures that our clients are suitably fabulous, ready for any special occasion or night out. Hair, makeup and outfit, your one stop shop.

We are building a brilliant following on social media, it’s just amazing. It is very humbling to have support and encouragement from people all over the country. I look forward to meeting new customers and welcoming our now, regulars. I feel privileged to come to the store everyday. I think I have finally found my happy place.

My goal to inspire my two teenagers to dream big and never give up.

A quote that inspires me everyday is The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’ found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle.

With the support of my partner, friends, family and amazing customers, I am hoping that KT Boutique can go from strength to strength.’’

D www.ktboutique.co.uk F @ K T Boutique I @ ktboutique2021 M 27a Market Street, Chorley PR7 2SY www.lancmag.com

AN AUTHENTIC MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT Serving Classical Italian Cuisine Using Fresh Produce

m Bolton Road | Withnell | Chorley | PR6 8BP f n 01254 202222 | barolorestaurant.uk | e eat@barolorestaurant.uk

WORLD’S FIRST VINTAGE-INSPIRED SEWING BOX LAUNCHED

A Lancashire-based fabric and haberdashery shop has launched the world’s first retro-inspired sewing box called, “Sew Vintage Fabulous”.

every single thing sewers need to make up the retro-style pattern provided.

T

Firstly, they were concerned about not getting fabric in a colour that suited them.

his monthly subscription is designed to help sewists of all abilities to create vintage styles that really fit and make them look and feel fabulous.

Liz Purkis, proprietor of Buttonhole Fabrics, got frustrated trying and failing to find something similar for herself during lockdown, so she decided to create her own.

She said, “I looked at other sewing boxes and was left uninspired. I felt they lacked in areas such as the amount of fabric I’d get in the box, the patterns weren’t my vintage style and box customers would’ve had to go find and purchase additional items to be able to complete the project.”

In fact, the “Sew Vintage Fabulous” sewing box does more than provide

Liz found in her customer research that there were 3 key reasons why people were reluctant to subscribe to a sewing box.

Secondly, they didn’t want to get a pattern they already had in their ‘stash’.

And thirdly, especially for newer sewists, they didn’t want to get stuck halfway through a project, not finish it and end up feeling bad about an expensive mistake.

Liz decided to create something that addressed all these concerns.

She continued, “I teamed up with a colour and style consultant to ensure that my customers could choose from 1 of 4 colour palettes for their fabric if they wish. All fabrics are hand-selected by me to ensure top quality.

“If a customer already has the

pattern, they can return it for a pattern credit on their account, so they can feel secure in knowing they’re getting great value.

“In addition I created the “Fitting Zoom”, a fun monthly get together online where sewing box customers can get my help with any issues on sewing the garment, any problems with fit and where I share tips and techniques to improve their sewing.”

Customers love the anticipation of not knowing what will arrive in their box each month and one customer even called it a ‘gift to herself’.

Lockdown was a challenging time for small business owner Liz who wasn’t selling online at the time all retail had to close. She’s delighted that something positive came out of it for vintage-loving customers, a growing marketplace.

For more information please contact thebuttonholefabrics@ mail.com shop: 01257 260900 and you can view the sewing box web page: www.

SewVintageFabulous.com

M The Buttonhole 42-44 Chapel Street, Chorley PR7 1BW N 01257 260900 D www.thebuttonholefabrics.com F TheButtonholefabrics E thebuttonholefabrics@mail.com

Lakeland Liqueurs | Herdwick Distillery | Mawson’s Drinks Real Fruit Syrups | Relishes & Preserves | Gifts | Lakeland Hampers

LAKELAND ARTISAN Award winning Food and Drink

Lakeland Artisan run by husband and wife team Geoff and Mary Monkman is an award-winning artisan food and drink company producing high-quality, hand-crafted products using the finest natural ingredients with no artificial flavours.

The company produces delicious preserves, chutneys and fruit syrups under Cumbrian Delights, a range of soft drinks and cordials as Mawson’s Original Drinks, a range of Gin, Vodka, Rum and Whiskey Liqueurs as Lakeland Liqueurs, new this year is Yan Gin by Herdwick Distillery, and finally Lakeland Hampers that brings all the brand together as well as other quality local produce.

With over 65 Great Taste Awards to date and many other accolades - a truly awardwinning company.

All our products are naturally delicious with no artificial flavours, colours or preservatives and handcrafted with love and care at our premises on the outskirts of Kendal in the English Lake District.

www.lakelandartisan.co.uk •

FTI @lakelandartisan

Engaged at Christmas?

How Exciting! Now what?

BY DOROTHY COOPER, RED ROSE CEREMONIES

seed paper that your guests can plant.

Pick a venue that has décor included – a canal boat, a Zoo, a botanical garden, anywhere that has a stunning backdrop which you don’t need to enhance with extras.

Consider paper flowers made from the same bee friendly paper as your invitations, to plant or to last forever if you want to keep them.

Instead of favours, use that money to donate to a charity. Tell your guests that’s what you are doing; they may decide to add to the donation to celebrate your wedding.

Freya Raby Photography www.freyaraby.co.uk

I

sn’t the prospect of getting married exciting – a warm fizzy feeling to match the bubbles in the prosecco that you toasted your engagement with.

Fabulous if you want that, but you should be able to make your own choices no matter what, without being made to feel guilty because you are not pushing the boundaries – or the budget.

So what do you do next?

Small is good

The answer is simple – before you plan/book anything or pick up a bridal magazine, talk to each other.

During the last two years, many people have re-evaluated if full on is necessary. Why not scale back, and have something small for close family and friends; a more intimate, personal ceremony?

A wedding should be about what you both want, not what relatives, friends or fashion magazines tell you that you should have.

Trends for 2022 – 2023 There is so much pressure in the media to have the latest, trendiest, most fashion forward…the list is endless.

Do you really need/want those?

Industry sources believe that following the restrictions of 2020-2021, 2022 is set for romance, boho escapism, flamboyance, short dresses, colour and casting away the restrictions that we have all been hemmed in by.

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Sustainability Rent the wedding dress – eco-friendly, sustainable and less expensive. Buy a vintage ring that’s been cherished by others and carry on their love through yours. Print invitations on bee friendly

There are so many options – you just need to think slightly differently and not just accept the package that you are offered at your chosen venue. Question them about their sustainability. Where do they source their food? How do they minimise waste?

Engage a celebrant If you are happy to split the legal part from the celebration, then engage a celebrant. We will (and this is not a definitive list) get to know you and your partner, plan, research and create your ceremony, conduct it on the day, co-ordinate and collaborate with your other wedding vendors and suppliers in advance and on the day, plan, create and lead rehearsals for you, offer wedding vow guidance and support and much more to create the ceremony that you want, not what the trends tell you should have.

Let’s carry on the excitement of your engagement by planning your day - call or email if you would like to know more – always happy to chat 07970 058 548 or email enquiry@redroseceremonies.co.uk or visit www. redroseceremonies.co.uk

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE

www.lancmag.com

Where you can make “more me” vintage-inspired clothes you can wear with pride - with 100% hand-selected top quality fabrics!

Fabrics • Sew Vintage Fabulous • Personal Shopping Charm Patterns • Haberdashery • Sewing & Knitting Storage Thread • Zips • Yarn & Accessories • Ribbon • Hand Sewing Kits Gifts • Scissors • Wool Felting • Adhesives • Buttons • Toy Making Subscription Boxes • Pantone Colour Matching • Colour Analysis

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday Saturday: 10am to 4pm Wednesday and Sunday: Closed

M 42-44 Chapel Street, Chorley PR7 1BW N 01257 260900 E thebuttonholefabrics@mail.com D thebuttonholefabrics.com

Buy instore or online at

ktboutique.co.uk instore purchases over £20

one transaction only, valid until December 31st 2021

clothing available in sizes 6-26

KTBoutiquewantthattrend ktboutique2021

27a Market Street, Chorley

NOW things are easy 3 keys to better sleep, losing cravings and feeling fully energised without going through trial & error experiences of generic lifestyle advice I THOUGHT THAT WAS NORMAL, “It’s that time of life”, I told myself and got on with it. I WAS WRONG! I learned 3 key lessons that changed my life so that today, I feel more energy and vitality than in my 20s: no more back pain, constipation or bloatingness, I sleep like a baby, have better hair and skin than ever, exercise more,play and enjoy my children – I feel I can take on the world every day.

IMAGINE jumping out of bed feeling fully energised after a great night’s sleep, ready to tackle the chores, maximise the fun and perform as the best version of yourself. THAT is what life SHOULD be like.

I

n my 40s I was autopiloting through every day with breastfeed premature twins, a 3 year old, a start-up business and the chores that running a household brings.

I woke up tired, dragged myself out of bed, did what I had to, merely minded (not enjoyed) the kids, relieved when they were in bed before I started a bad night’s sleep to awake again to groundhog day.

LESSON 1: ‘Healthy’ food choices are not enough Overfarming, non-seasonal produce, growth enhancing chemicals and toxins – just 3 reasons why our ‘fresh’ food is not nutritious enough anymore. I found AND introduced more nutrient rich food to ‘fuel’ my body better.

LESSON 2: “Fix the Gut = Fix the Problem” The Gut Microbiome has tremendous powers and impacts your Immunity, Actions, Moods, Behaviour and Genes. I learned that my chocolate cravings were down to ‘baddies’ in my gut rather than my brain’s decisions.

Taking steps to balance my gut flora took my health to another level.

My programme featured in a Channel 4 documentary (link below right) receiving excellent reviews and client’s regular feedback are life improving experiences with lasting effect.

LESSON 3: You are Unique – Lifestyle advice should be personalised Your DNA defines how genes react to your lifestyle – food, exercise, environment. I NEVER imagined that the healthy food choices I made or the exercises I chose were actually wrong for my body’s blueprint, that the fresh (even organic) food I used did not feed me the nutrients best for me but could, in fact, cause inflammation.

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Nutrigenetics ‘reads’ our DNA blueprint so you know exactly which foods are good for you and which could trigger genetic dormant lying health issues.

Science, facts – no more guesswork and all from just a bit of saliva!

Life changed for me and my clients: • Improved sleep, energy-levels, bowel movements, performance, mental wellbeing and skin; • Less anxiety, bloating, pains, menopause symptoms, weight and brain fog; • Lower sugar/cholesterol levels, blood pressure • And my kids have their mum back.

In my clinics I combine science, nutrition and mindfulness to improve your health and performance with programmes built around YOUR lifestyle, delivered with a concierge level of service to help you become the best version of yourself.

1-2-1 mentoring, corporate programmes – bespoke approach, measured progress, online portal support.

Coaching for health professionals on proven methods and programmes that help achieve results for their clients faster.

JANUARY SPECIAL 30 minutes Lifestyle Analysis Consultation & Advice just £15 and all earnings to go to Charity CHANNEL 4 REVIEW: https://whypurify. co.uk/?tm=jr CONTACT: Julia Riewald – Success & Health Coaching N +44 (0)7902 214534 E Julia@percent-edge.com www.lancmag.com

MANISH’S ZODIAC PREDICTIONS

M

anish 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) You will be able to take your whole life to a new level, for the power of your dreams will be magnified. It’s a fortunate time, when the world will appreciate you for your unique abilities. However, you will be trying too hard to impress other people, mainly through grandiose gestures and attempts to seem more important. January turns your attention to your financial situation and can see you spending more than might be wise, perhaps in an attempt to show off. Nevertheless, excellent opportunities will present themselves during these heady weeks.

Favourable Dates: Jan 6, 7, 15, 16, 24, 25 Favourable Colours: Yellow & Purple

LEO (23 Jul - 22 Aug) There would be practical journey in professional growth. Seeds of successful business adventure and professional communications would be laid.

You would be perfectly knowing what you want to do now and how you are going for it.

This is a good time for sorting out anything which has been bugging you. Don’t count on others—especially partners, older people, financial types and father figures—to be of much use. It may be best to resist some promising new must-have and hang on to what you’ve got, at least for the time being.

Favourable Dates: Jan 1, 6, 10, 15, 19, 24, 28 Favourable Colours: Red & White

TAURUS (20 Apr - 20 May) You are creating your own sense of success or failure.

If you want more than you have received - prove it and create a new path for yourself. Help is on the way. Financial good news will come soon. Hard work, material progress.growth, money, rewards are due, make your last minute adjustments to ensure profit. You are responsible for your life, and your determination and stamina will keep your life and business fruitful. You’ve sown your seeds, now you can rest and see what begins to sprout from all of your effort.

You shall reap what you have sown.

Favourable Dates: Jan 1, 2, 10, 11, 19, 20, 29 Favourable Colours: Red & Blue

VIRGO (23 Aug - 22 Sept) The month is ideal for making bold decisions regarding who you are and where you will be heading in the months ahead. It’s definitely the time to make decisions about relationships, especially if you have been enjoying a passionate dalliance with an exciting mysterious figure in the preceding weeks. A delightfully exciting time may be expected discovering or rediscovering the mysteries of life and death, romance and sex, among other things. This period will present a powerful mating phase, but those already mated may find trouble on the home front, so tread carefully.

Favourable Dates: Jan 2, 4, 11, 13, 20, 22, 29 Favourable Colours: Purple & Yellow

GEMINI (21 May - 20 Jun) Look for the positive in what you are experiencing now. A great strength is found as you let go of that which you hold on most to. Release the negativity, so that new trust may be found. Detach from the unsolved issues and look for new inspiration.Bitterness during a struggle to release.making a mountain out of a molehill will not help.

Only the weak spots are gone, you still have much to be grateful for. Love the one you are with. A relationship or partnership may not fulfill its potential. Turn to self for the love and sympathy that you are searching for.

Favourable Dates: 1, 3, 11, 14, 18, 20, 29 Favourable Colours: Yellow & Blue

LIBRA (23 Sept - 22 Oct) The flow of physical energy can make you more aggressive or competitive concerning work, coworkers, or employees. Be ready to confront problems and seek a solution, but don’t fall for the tendency for angry outbursts or rash actions. Borrowed money and partnership funds will be a big part of the picture, along with mystical or occult investigations. Avoid conflict and argument with co-workers, as violence and accidental injury, particularly burns and cuts, are bubbling beneath the surface. Intense passionate emotions, and a love of sensation, luxury and pleasures will be the flavour of the month.

Favourable Dates: Jan 7, 8, 16, 17, 25, 26 Favourable Colours: Red & Yellow

CANCER (21 Jun - 22 Jul) You are paving the way for a smoother road ahead by thinking really hard about where you are and where your current path is leading.

Take a modest or reticent approach with dignity and unassuming grace. You would be looking for a reason to celebrate with loved ones. Trust is restored. Tender moments would be enjoyed. You would feel dancing beneath a waterfall. Dreams would get fulfilled and positive feelings would be all around. This is a good time for sorting out anything which has been bugging you.Romance holds some the hottest potential for singles.

Favourable Dates: Jan 1, 3, 11, 14, 18, 20, 29 Favourable Colours: Red & Purple

SCORPIO (23 Oct - 21 Nov) Your own personal charm will cause you to shine during the month ahead, so make the most of it. You are naturally lucky, and money should come your way. The key will be hanging onto it. You will be concerned with what does or does not make you happy, but group activities will turn out to be rewarding. The idea of money coming through dealings with institutions and anything concealed or behind the scenes is supported.Your approach to dealing with people will be more egalitarian and outgoing, as you seek more understanding of your role in the lives of others: as friend, parent, lover, or associate.

Favourable Dates: Jan 2, 3, 11, 12, 20, 21, 29 Favourable Colours: Red & Blue

SAGITTARIUS (22 Nov - 21 Dec) A lot of issues from the past are likely to emerge , concerning your hopes and dreams and relationships with friends and associates.

Be sure to make your position clear, lest some misunderstanding get you in deeper water than you’d like.

Nothing more than a bruised ego, but you’ve learned valuable lessons and won’t make the mistake again. Plan travel well in advance, and be sure to have the agendas confirmed in writing.A secret affair is in the wind for some – this may be the igniting of a new flame, or a resparking of an old one.

Favourable Dates: Jan 2, 4, 11, 13, 20, 22, 29 Favourable Colours: Yellow & Blue CAPRICORN (22 Dec - 19 Jan) Unstable conditions surrounding your income and finances suggest that money may be gained and lost, and even gained again.

This is not necessarily negative. Losing money in one enterprise may inspire you to make it up in another. Expenditures need to change as new or unexpected situations develop. The major influence during this period is not concerned solely with money and material wealth; it encompasses whatever you value—and that includes relationships. The loss or gain of an important relationship can cause you to establish new values, or shift old priorities.

Favourable Dates: Jan 3, 7, 12, 16, 21, 25, 30 Favourable Colours: Purple & Green AQUARIUS (20 Jan - 18 Feb) You will be more likely to spend at least as much as you receive during this period, probably on statusrelated items. Circumstances will make you more aware of freedom and independence. This can mean physical freedom as well as independence of thought, or both. Your approach to dealing with people will be more egalitarian and outgoing. You should find success if you are in finance, fund-raising, computers, technology, astrology, travel, and group activities. Now is the time to look for love or let love find you and that you need to make a point of taking self-responsibility.

Favourable Dates: Jan 2, 9, 11, 18, 20, 27, 29 Favourable Colours: Green & Blue PISCES (19 Feb - 20 Mar) You will be very fluid and all over the place with your thinking and ideas. Also your creativity and wit will be at an all time high. You will be able to be centre of attention without being obnoxious and, people will gravitate towards you to help with possible future projects. Focus on improving your love life and being open with your partner during this time.

A time of things being up in the air and a quick change in direction. It is all about manifesting your desires and really going after what you want.

Favourable Dates: Jan 3, 10, 12, 18, 22, 27, 31 Favourable Colours: Red & Blue

Manish Kumar Arora, 91-9871062000 | K.P. Astrologer, Numerologist, Tarot Card Reader & Vastu Consultant F www.facebook.com/manishastroconsultant | E manish@manishastrologer.com

www.lancmag.com

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 169

The Italian Connection Contemporary Computer Analysis

by Jason Gleaves, Ufonly Elliptical Shaped UFO - 12 Separate Photographs Analysed Over Italy 1998

R

ecently I was presented by fellow ufologist Philip Mantle with 12 fascinating separate photographs of what appeared to show an unknown multicoloured ovoid/elliptical shaped object (UFO-UAP) Unidentified Aerial Phenomena), captured on 35mm film in 12 separate aerial positions (clearly over the same location in Italy) which had been photographed

by Edy Guadaganini (34 years old at the time of sighting) who was a local mechanic, also witnessed by his daughter who had alerted him saying she had seen the unusual object in the sky in front of their home, she described it as a ‘fireballoon‘ in appearance, the unusual object was seen over the town of Paderno del Grappa near Treviso (Veneto) Italy, during the morning of Sunday 7th June 1998.

time period (fixed wing or rotary aircraft) during the sighting Mr. Guadaganini went on to take a sequence of 12 clear photographs of the object plus the surroundings i.e., buildings, trees and other foliage which are great for perspective and he described its movements as erratic, flying in a zig-zag flight pattern which suggests the object is manoeuvring under intelligent control.

The 12 photographs are of a decent colour quality with superficial surface scratches which are characteristic of that type and age of film media (the scratches are more visible after the enhancement process). In the images it is a clear sunny day with a high standard of distance visibility, certain buildings

and trees are seen in different photographs thus confirming the objects position movement’s also different altitudes as described by the witness.

Upon analysing the 12 separate images using up-to-date enhancement techniques, in my opinion the object has defined structure and features with no protrusions (tail, fin or wings) or any obvious propulsion system (tailpipes) in any conventional aviation terms.

Verdict: - unidentified.

Jason Gleaves, international author of ‘UFO PHOTO’ and ‘The Ufology Umbrella’ plus Ufonly on Facebook, Twitter, Ufonly YouTube channel and Onstellar.

Upon hearing of the unusual object outside from his daughter Mr. Guadaganini grabbed him camera (Reflex Cannon EOS-5) plus binoculars and went outside, while viewing the object with his binoculars Mr. Guadaganini soon realized the object was not a ‘fire-balloon ‘but a multicoloured metallic ovoid (being a qualified mechanic, I would believe and respect Mr. Guadaganini opinion and description of the object’s appearance).

The object doesn’t resemble any known aircraft in use during that 170

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NEW DOCUMENTARY: ‘MULTIDIMENSIONAL’ available on Amazon Prime, iTunes, Apple TV, Google Play, and the Microsoft Store.

https://m.imdb.com/ title/tt15716310/ plotsummary?ref_=tt_ov_ pl#summary-ps6263888

www.lancmag.com

LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 171

Illuminate a new holiday Theatre Arts Project by Blackpool Grand Theatre Illuminate is a new holiday Theatre Arts Project by Blackpool Grand Theatre launched with the bright lights of Blackpool’s world-famous Illuminations and the Lightpool Festival.

I

lluminate has been co-designed with Blackpool young people from the ‘Just Uz’ group who is one of the representative groups run by Social Services.

Blackpool Grand Theatre are incredibly proud to be working in partnership with the Blackpool Council Social Services engagement team who along with the Ragdoll Foundation, the Arts Council, and Future U have funded this new two-year project.

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Blackpool Grand welcoming over 60 young people into the building who will worked on the main stage, in theStudio, and outdoors. They took part in a wide range of workshops including dance, lantern making, and graffiti arts as they design a new attraction to tie in with Blackpool Illuminations and the Lightpool Festival!

Working with renowned artists Dave Healy, Shane Johnstone, Sarah Jane Lockwood and a designer from Blackpool’s Lightworks, the home of the famous Illuminations. www.lancmag.com

program the Illuminate - Theatre Arts Project was created and delivered.

Kirsty Fisher, Social Services, Blackpool Council said, ‘We are delighted to be working in partnership with Blackpool Grand Theatre, collaborating with artists and for our young people to be co-producing a new creative opportunity for our children during the holidays.’

Celine Wyatt Head of Creative Learning & Blackpool Grand Theatre ‘we never stop in the delight of young people at the theatre, when it comes alive with voices, ideas, and imagination – it’s indescribable seeing their joy and engagement. We are grateful to our partners and funders who have shown so much commitment to our work.’

throughout this challenging time.

Since the Grand closed its doors in March 2020 the Blackpool Grand continued to work with young people, schools, and community groups. Delivered through online platforms they created new digital creative challenges and working with young people produced new work that gave them a voice www.lancmag.com

One of the Theatre’s biggest aims is to forge powerful partnerships and build longlasting relationships so that they can offer opportunities for children and young people to enjoy, participate and learn through live theatre, something Blackpool Grand is very proud of in its community impact and engagement. For them, putting young people’s creative voices front and centre, as well as jointly creating platforms for sharing that work is key to their approach and how they develop projects. Over the past three years, Blackpool Grand continue to engage and produce work with children and young people from the Blackpool community and with the support of the engagement team at Blackpool’s Social Services, the new holiday

Children and young people from the Blackpool community wanted something they could call their own, where they could select the artists, where they could tell their stories and where they could learn new skills that would help them in other areas of their lives.

They want to shine a light on their stories and experiences of living in our community before, during, and after the Covid-19 lockdown and to tell those stories using light, sound, and music.

Blackpool’s Grand is delighted to be working with Philip Holmes, Creative Director of the Lightworks Festival who has listen to the ideas and to start a creative journey with them, the Theatre, and a range of artists.

Blackpool Grand offers a rich and varied program of engagement programs for children and young people.

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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’

Happy New Year

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 35 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.

 Photo Courtesy of Adrian Patrick taken at Viva, Blackpool and thank you to Jasmine, Kitty and Tamara for a great show.

Le t’s G e t Loud!!

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Party the Nigh t Away and Bring in the New Year with Sparkle and Shine!!!

hope you’re enjoying this wonderful season, seeing shows again and getting out and about! Or snuggling up on the couch with your loved ones and enjoying a show at home! January is the start of the New Year, and the month of New beginnings, I’d like to look at how to add interest to some of your Christmas and New Year outfits without breaking the bank! Accessorising is a great way to enhance your look, it’s just that little extra that can make such a difference to your outfit. Accessories remind me of stocking fillers, all the unexpected surprises!

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ACCESSORIES, ACCESSORIES, ACCESSORIES

BELTS AND BAGS

THE HOTTEST COLOUR ON THE BLOCK RIGHT NOW

 Harper Waist Belt and Classic Suede Belt both by Kettlewell www.kettlewellcolours.co.uk

 Tiger Tunic in Pink Tiger with Mega Love Necklace Silver by www.kettlewellcolours.co.uk

By adding an accessory to an outfit you can make a huge impact!

HATS AND SCARVES

Brown is a great neutral and is one of the hottest colours on the high street this season! It’s such a versatile colour, some will find it easier to wear than others.

Red heads (Warm) for example look amazing dressed head to toe in shades of Brown. Grey haired or ash toned (Cool) people need to choose their complimentary colours carefully to make it work for them.

Below are some good combinations that work with brown for our different colouring types:Lights: Cocoa is a lovely soft shade of Brown which you can team with a light shade such as Sky Blue Deeps: Try wearing a rich Chocolate with another strong shade such as Forest Green

 Merino Beanie and Merino Infinity scarf both in Azalea Pink by Kettlewell www.kettlewellcolours.co.uk

Hats and Scarves are great accessories and can add that pop of colour when you need it. The above Merino Beanie and Merino Infinity scarf are perfect for adding colour to your winter outfit alongside keeping you warm. If you have a neutral coat you could either wear these accessories in contrast or tone on tone depending on your colour type. The above hat and scarf in pink would look great with chocolate brown, rose brown or cocoa. www.lancmag.com

Warms: A really important neutral for the base of your wardrobe. Try Bronze with Amber, but it will work with pretty much most of your colour palette Cools: Pewter is a great option for you, but whatever shade of brown you are wearing, the key is to team it with a blue-based colour with some contrast. Try Turquoise Clears: The deepest of browns will look amazing when you combine it with a strong clear shade such as Scarlet Softs: Rose Brown will complement your look. Combine it with a shade that is of similar depth such as Sage

Belts are another good accessory they are great for the hourglass figure as they emphasise the waist, however, If you don’t have a defined waist you can trick the eye into believing there’s a waist by wearing one underneath a cardigan or jacket as seen above. The art of clever dressing is to understand how to dress your body and highlight your positive points making your body appear balanced.

Our bodies change throughout our lives and you may have had an hourglass figure but with pregnancy or menopause and lifestyle changes your figure may have changed shape and become more rectangular. Trying to fit into something that doesn’t suit your body shape can be distressing but with the right knowledge you can dress more confidently. This is where a Style consultation or Style profile directs you into how best to dress your body shape and proportions.

Belts can also reduce height so if you are petite think about wearing a belt in a similar colour to your clothes. Take into consideration the size of the belt as someone petite will be different to someone of a larger scale and over six foot tall! There are so many choices in belts this season adding a Leopard print or shiny belt will make your outfit current as seen below.

 Blue Leopard Belt by Kettlewell www.kettlewellcolours.co.uk

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Bags are another perfect accessory and if you have a neutral one you can tie a scarf to it for that City Chic style. Some bags have interchangeable straps and by buying a neutral colour you can add interest with different straps for different occasions. Roodle have some amazing choices and the colours are stunning! They believe in the power of colour and their business came about when two sisters decided they needed to add colour into their lives. Their bags are made with high quality leather of every colour of the rainbow, the wonderful interchangeable straps can be purchased which makes them versatile!

GLASSES AND JEWELLERY

 Courtesy of Eva Dave, Style Optics www.styleoptique.co.uk

Glasses make-such an impact and wearing the right colour and style is essential as they make such a statement! Above is Eva Dave of Style Optics who is a fellow CMB Consultant, Eva and her team help you choose the perfect pair of glasses based on your style personality, face shape and colour type. As you can see from the picture Eva, Keely and Zoe are wearing the styles and colours that suit them. It is certainly worth investing in a pair of glasses that works in harmony with you!

Jewellery can add that touch of glamour to any outfit and the silver earrings below by Kettlewell have silver beads and semiprecious stones and add that Christmas sparkle to any outfit!  Luna Earrings Silver by  www.kettlewellcolours.co.uk

 Roodles Bags – a rainbow of colours www.roodlebag.com

COLOUR ME HAPPY  Original in Ebony and Silver x Camo in Silver

by Roodle www.roodlebag.com

 Photo Courtesy of Adrian Patrick

Lift your mood with Colour, it’s a fact that wearing Colour can make you feel and look younger and healthier!

Have a Wonderful Season and whatever you are doing add some colour and remember Accessories are that little bit extra that can make a big difference!

Look after yourselves and each other!

Warm Wishes, Sarah x  Selection of Straps by Roodle www.roodlebag.com

E sarah@sarahharrisstyle.co.uk D www.sarahharrisstyle.co.uk

Style

Enterprise Vision Awards

Fylde Coast Finalists and Winners

By Mandy Crosley, MC Accounting What a fantastic night we all had, lots of cheering and shouting for our fellow Fylde Coast Finalists.

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just want to congratulate all the finalists for their achievements and especially to Bella for winning and Gemma for being Highly Commended.

We have all worked extremely hard over the last 18 months to keep our business afloat and to have the recognition to say you have accomplished that and to share it with so many inspirational women at such a spectacular evening.

Beauty Industry Winner Bella Kowalska of the Nail Bus said “I’m absolutely delighted to have won an Enterprise Vision Award and be recognised within the beauty industry, what an achievement.”

Finalist Jane Charnley of A Toast in the Post commented “After a whirlwind year it was a real treat to attend the glittering EVAs at the Winter Gardens as a Finalist, and to be amongst previous EVAs winners and finalists. Throughout the evening there were many special moments of celebration and reflection. It was the perfect opportunity to raise a glass to women in business!”

LEFT TO RIGHT, BACK ROW: Bella Kowalska – WINNER BEAUTY BUSINESS, Sara Dewhurst, Rachel Grounds, Louise O’Toole, Gemma Walker – WINNER HIGHLY COMMENDED BUSINESS WOMAN, Lynne Webster & Mary Speakman LEFT TO RIGHT, FRONT ROW: Isabel Wilkie, Mandy Crossley, Trilby Beetham, Jane Charnley & Wendy Mahoney Group photograph by Iain Jack Photography | www.iainjackphotography.co.uk

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Denise Mullen is a journalist, writer and entrepreneur.

My Brief Stint as a Flasher

By Denise Mullen

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s a lady-of-a-certain-age it’s not often I find myself half-naked in the open countryside. That was, until last week when, unseasonable though the weather was, I found myself somewhat underdressed and channelling my inner Madonna as I whipped my top off and strode across the field.

Let me take us back a step or two.

I was at work in my office (She-Shed, actually) minding my own business. My husband had called to me that he was about to take the dog out and was going to take her for a really good walk as, although cold, we’d had a merciful respite from the rain.

This information was greeted with a grunt of assent from me.

I was up to my elbows in deadlines and frowning solidly at the screen of my desktop. It’s a lovely big screen, new, actually, the sort of screen I think men have for watching football and playing computer games. Anyway, for me it’s perfect for having several documents open at once. But I digress.

Now, just before we trot through the ensuing carnage, let me take you back to the day I managed to convince Johnny – the mongoose – France that we really should get a dog.

Bear with… this is relevant, I promise you.

I had mounted a slow but steady campaign of deep sighs, showing pictures of potential rescue dogs looking sad and other pictures of the happily re-homed.

He was impervious. ‘We have enough pets,’ he’d say. ‘We don’t have time for a dog,’ he’d add. Three years I spent whittling away at his resolve. I’m nothing if not determined.

Then, it came to me. I had absolutely arrived at the one message that would nail it for me. I told him – without a shred of guilt – that I was frightened in the house alone when he worked away.

Now this is not strictly a lie. If, for example, one of the cats brings a little furry friend in to join us, I have been known to hop onto a chair to do a bit of shrieking. You can keep an eye on everything from up there I find.

So around an hour and a half later I hear the bellow that announces they’re back. It’s swiftly followed, at around the same volume (he’s near the back door, divesting himself of his wellies) with a narrative describing the various exciting encounters enroute. Just for completeness and a fully immersive experience of said ‘exciting encounters’ these featured one angry squirrel, a family of partridge, a paddle and some deer tracks.

Johnny t-m France was horrified he had been so selfish. How could he have been so unfeeling, and even put me at risk?

I was, sort of, listening with half an ear. Someone once described to me what married life was like and I feel they summed it up perfectly.

What I have to fess up to, is, erm. Well Johnny kind of forgot that, when we got married, he had a house and I had a house. When we got together we moved into my house and he was renting out his.

‘Married life is, pretty much, totally devoted to two people, standing in two different rooms of the same property shouting ‘WHAT?’ Be that as it may I was kind of getting the gist. Until all hell broke loose.

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I showed him the picture of Harley. She was scrawny, scruffy, had one brown eye and one blue eye and was languishing in Romania. ‘Get her,’ he said. Before you could say ‘vampire’ (she was in Transylvania) I had filled in the papers and was scheduling a home check visit.

The house we live in now, the remote farmhouse down a farm track, no streetlights, no pavement, just fields, owls, mice and bats, those sorts of neighbours, is the house I lived in before I met him. The house I lived in for eight years before I met him – and yes, all of them on my own. www.lancmag.com

So, quite right. How could he be so unfeeling and careless of my personal safety. A dog! That’s what was required.

on our dog, a Mioritic mountain shepherd, are purely for decorative purposes. Our recall is nil.

Consequently, I love my dog so much I have no words.

Suffice to say, I sort of lied and sort of cheated as well as, sort of, manipulated our way, as a couple mind, to adding a new fur baby to the family.

I repeat wait and sit like a mantra as I scuttle toward her.

Lord be praised she raises a back foot for a scratch and I’m there and clutching her collar. She’s 100 yards from a road and has the road sense of a gnat. I think I’m going to faint from relief.

Having set the scene, you’ll understand why, when the dog shot past the office and I could hear Johnny shouting her, I scooted outside. I just caught a furry streak heading off across the arena as I yelled ‘Harley, WAIT’ in an attempt to drown out his bellows of ‘Come On Then’ which are actually the words we use when we’re about to take her for a walk.

She looked over her shoulder then barrelled through the fence and onto the newly seeded and harrowed field – she was heading straight for the road.

‘WAIT’ I shouted again. He’s still chirruping ‘Come on then’. I turn and with a withering look yell at him to shut up and let me give one command that’s aimed at stopping her.

I struggle through the fence. I’m clad in slippers, jeans and a teeshirt. It’s a bit nippy, but at this stage, all I can feel is the blood pounding in my face and the newly tilled grit under foot swishing into my slippers as I break into a rusty trot.

‘WAIT’. She does. ‘SIT’. She does. The boy has stopped yelling, there is no longer any confusion. To be fair, the ears

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I look back. We’ve come quite some way. Although she’s a 31k dog, so no flyweight and pretty tall, the thought of making the journey back bent double and clutching her collar isn’t one I relish.

I can see him, small in the distance. He’s leaning on the top rail of the fence.

There’s nothing for it, so I whip off my teeshirt and thread it through Harley’s collar. At least now I can stand and walk her back. She thinks this is tremendous fun and keeps jumping up at the flapping teeshirt. We trudge through the furrows. Me in bra (nor is it one of my best, fancy bras), mud-spattered jeans and gritty slippers. Her, well she’s living her best life, ‘boiled-ham tongue’ lolling to one side as she relaxes into an easy lope. ‘Two walks!’ she’s thinking ‘Excellent’.

The moral of this story? Well, there isn’t one really. Just that, if circumstances had dictated I also had to shed my jeans and slippers to save my dog from intimate acquaintance with that road – I’d have done it in a heartbeat.

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Montserrat - The Emerald Isle of the Caribbean

By Sharmen Frith-Hemmings A people that prides themselves on their cooking ability produces some of the tastiest dishes that your palate will ever experience. Our pride and joy Montserrat’s national dish is ‘Goat Water’. Don’t let the name fool you, this smooth tasting brown stew made of goat meat and exotic spices, served with fresh baked bread rolls or rice is not to be confused with the Jamaican Manish water. One taste of this culinary masterpiece will have your taste buds screaming for more. The smell calls you from a mile off and as the meat melts in your mouth you cannot resist the call for seconds.

Above: Sharmen wearing the Montserrat Madras

If you are celebrating a Birthday, Anniversary, Festival or would love a Bespoke Themed Wedding with a twist, look no further than Sharmen Frith Hemmings and her amazing businesses.

T

he words of Rick Tyson in his song Nature Lovers Fantasy, takes me on an imaginary journey of pure niceness.

“Let’s take a cruise lets enjoy a vacation, leaving the hustle and the bustle behind, it’s the warmth of a tropical island. Come on and share that delightful sensation of being surrounded by the sand and the sea, in an atmosphere of tranquillity. There’s a beautiful unspoiled gem of creation, the Emerald Isle of the Caribbean, Its Montserrat come and see, a nature lovers’ fantasy…”

As the sweet sultry tones of the music continues to surround me, I can’t help but remember the beautiful beaches, the rolling mountains and the relaxed way of life that I grew up in. I am reminded of the friendly and respectful way we great each other, the sound of our own dialect a language that means so much to me. Montserrat in all its royal beauty gave me a culture that played one of the greatest influences in my life.

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I remember the large pans cooking away on a wood fire on every special event that I attended from fêtes to weddings.

No occasion would be complete without Miss Mono’s Goat water, she was our village (Salem) Queen of cooking Goat water. This dish is made authentically from the meat of a ram (male) goat and includes spices such as ‘erbs and chibble, (the local names for thyme and spring onions), scotch bonnet and cloves. In addition to the spices, the smoke from the wood helps to give this culinary creation its unique taste.

Traditionally this dish can be difficult to cook as it requires a certain consistency that is neither too thick or thin and the colour that is just right.

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Above: Goat Water

In looking back the historic influences clearly shows the fusion of our African and Irish ancestry. The stew bares some semblance of the Irish stew but is heavily influenced by the African spicy flavour.

Goat water is not the only thing that is unique to Montserrat.

We also have national dress made from the Montserrat

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Above: Montserrat National Flower, Red Heliconia

Above: Montserrat Masquerade

Madras this too is worn on special occasions one of which is St Patrick’s day. Our St Patrick’s day celebration is affirmation of our heritage and includes a fusion of colours and costumes that reflect the combination of African and Irish heritage. On this day we remember our ancestors who gave their lives so that we can have freedom today. The day represents the beginning of our ancestral bid for freedom from slavery. And reminds us of the plight of our ancestors on March 17th 1768 where the African slaves on the island planned a failed uprising - nine slaves were hanged. The uprising was set for that day because the Island Slave Masters and Overseers were Irish most of the Island would be drunk and distracted.

However, plans of the enslaved reached the ears of the Overseers and they were ready when the slaves arrived.

Nine slaves were killed including the Leader Cudjoe and another 30 imprisoned and sold off the Island. The unwritten history told by our ancestors as we grew up, explains that as a warning to other slaves of the consequences of revolting, Cudjoe’s Head was hung in a Silk Cotton Tree in the middle of a village. The village now named Cudjoe Head.

In typical Montserratian resilient and creative style, we turned the day into an opportunity to celebrate and educate the world of our unique Afro-Irish history. The day became a national holiday in 1985, and since then has developed into a 10-day celebration, of parades, parties, lectures, and excursions, honouring the rebellion, celebrating the Island’s African and Irish history.

On St Patrick’s day people gather for carnival like parades, a sea of green is seen across the whole parade with revellers wearing either the national dress or the colour green. Amongst this the Masquerade dancers stand out in their colourful red costumes, performing the traditional Masquerade dance. The beating of drums, the tall hats and masks and the dances steps are an expression of respect for out African ancestors and protest against the Irish slave masters.

Above: Montserrat National Dress

Above: Montserrat Oriole Tavez Aymer

Now that I have shared that delightful sensation of my Island that has been branded worldwide as the Emerald Isle of the Caribbean, it’s time to come back to the UK to a little town called Burnley in the County of Lancashire, where I have come to settle. Here you can Find Mama Shar’s Caribbean Cooking my little unique Caribbean cooking establishment, where you can order ‘Goat Water’ for your special occasion. You can see pictures of the national dress and flower hanging on the wall. You too can be transported to the Island with our warm greeting and friendly atmosphere. Where we honour my Island’s traditional saying ‘Montserrat still home, still nice’.

M 5 Brennand Street, Burnley BB10 1SU E info@mamashars.com N 07988 890974 F @mamashars I @mamashars

MAMA SHAR’S CARIBBEAN COOKING

We boast authentic, delicious and affordable Caribbean meals and Celebration Cakes.

We can work with any budget and give you amazing flavour and homemade taste.

SHAR FRITH EVENTS

We provide event planning, catering, festivals, street food.

We provide an altogether high standard of service to all our clients.

I could go on about things that are unique to our Island.

The national flower which is the Red Heliconia that grows wild in the mountains of Montserrat.

The Montserrat national bird is the Oriole (Icterus oberi) is a medium sized Icterus bird found only on Montserrat.

Originally, they could be found on the three forested mountains of Montserrat the Silver, Central and Soufriere hills. However, the volcanic activity of 1995 and 1997 has destroyed at least two-thirds of the population. Threatening habitat loss and prompting its classification as a critically endangered species with an estimated population of between 200 and 800.

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Photography credit: John Cox

MAMA SHAR’S CARIBBEAN COOKING E info@mamashars.com N 07988 890974 FI @mamashars SHAR FRITH EVENTS #E info@sharfrithevents.co.uk N 07988 890974 FI @sharfrithevents

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ANTONELLA THE UNCENSORED REVIEWER LAUNCHES HER OWN COLLECTION Ruby and Daisy are a clothing brand based in the Rossendale Valley in the North West of England.

They aim to make women feel confident again in their clothing, but at reasonable, affordable pricing.

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hey are real women inspiring confidence through fashion and demolishing the unrealistic idea of the high street. What you see is what you get with the coowners: Helena, Louie & Antonella, they are there to make you fall back in love with your wardrobe. They have an impressive 73k followers on

Facebook, 20k followers on Instagram and 11k online community Facebook group members who are all huge fans of their clothing and ethos.

Antonella & the Ruby & Daisy team have been working very hard behind the scenes for months on a very exciting project, perfect for the party season... The Nelly Loves Collection, which launched on the 4th November 2021 online and in store! Ruby & Daisy wanted to collaborate with Antonella as she is a fierce woman, who has not only designed a fabulous collection, but also stands for female boss values and empowers her followers with positivity.

As a brand, Ruby & Daisy understand the power that their presence has and they wanted to collaborate with

someone who can help them spread the message of body confidence and self love. Ruby & Daisy have a strong ethos to empower women with their own take on femininity ensuring their collections offer an inclusive selection for women of all shapes, sizes and styles.

Make sure you’re following them on Facebook and Instagram to find out first hand everything about the Nelly Loves Collection. You can shop the Nelly Loves Collection online at www.rubyanddaisy.co.uk and in their boutique in Crawshawbooth, Rossendale.

F Ruby & Daisy I rubydaisy1 F Group: R&D Community

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ENGINEERING FUTURE MASTERPIECES 18th And 19th Century Artworks Reworked to Imagine a Net Zero Carbon Future Shaped By Engineering

· Digital artist has reworked masterpieces by Monet, Van Gogh, Constable and Pissarro to inspire a conversation about the engineering advances that could help to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. · Innovations such as agricultural robots, smart thermochromic windows, vertical farms and flying taxis have been woven into the re-imagined impressionist masterpieces to depict what a more sustainable world may look like in the future. · The artworks were commissioned by the Royal Academy of Engineering for This is Engineering Day which was on on Wednesday 3rd November 2021, which aims to encourage more young people to choose engineering careers and help achieve net zero carbon by 2050. · Sympathetic re-imaginings show how innovative agriculture, aviation, transport and buildings could help to transform everyday life and landscapes.

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VAN GOGH Factories at Clichy

PISSARRO La Rue Saint- Honoré

MONET The Seashore at Sainte-Adresse

CONSTABLE The Wheat Field

ORIGINAL MASTERPIECES

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RE-IMAGINED MASTERPIECES

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P

ainters such as Constable, Monet, Pissarro, and Van Gogh first made their marks in the art world during the industrial revolution.

While this era drove economic benefits and improvements in living standards for many, we now know that it triggered the start of rising carbon emissions leading to global warming.

Masterpieces by these iconic artists have been re-imagined to inspire conversations about the kinds of engineering advances that could help to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Electric planes and flying taxis, vertical orchards and rooftop farms are just some of the innovations that feature in the reworked masterpieces, commissioned by the Royal Academy of Engineering as part of its This Is Engineering campaign to promote engineering careers in response to a significant skills and diversity shortfall in the profession.

and could travel within a vacuum to reduce drag and increase speed.

People would likely use this system for travelling long distances crosscountry or city to city, then shorter journeys could be taken by vertical taxis that carry up to four people.

Heavy lift flying drones could also be used for transportation of goods or for emergency response.”

Constable’s The Wheat Field, reimagined for 2050, includes solar powered pruning robots, autonomous grass cutting machines and crop-

removed the hard physical labour and repetitive tasks of agricultural farmhands as autonomous robots take on the work humans would have traditionally done. Agbots make farming more precise to conserve vital resources like water and energy and we’ll see smaller machines in future to help preserve soil quality and health. A healthy soil is not only vital for growing food, it can also sequester carbon more effectively than one that has been compacted by large machinery. If Constable were to walk in the British countryside in

Van Gogh’s Factories at Clichy, Constable’s The Wheat Field, Pissarro’s La Rue Saint- Honoré and Monet’s The Seashore at Sainte-Adresse have been digitally remastered by a contemporary artist, Ashly Lovett, to show how engineering innovations could help to transform everyday life and landscapes in the future.

The Engineer the Future collection can be viewed online via Google Arts & Culture. The aim of the exhibition is to start a conversation about what we want a net zero future to look like, and the role of future engineers in that, w0ith viewers invited to contribute their own ideas via social media on This is Engineering Day on Wednesday 3 November 2021.

Were Van Gogh to paint Factories at Clichy in 2050, his masterpiece might feature autonomous ‘agbots’ – agricultural robots – tending the crops using precision farming; a development that could help to slash agricultural carbon emissions. In the skies above, Sophie Harker, Assistant Chief Engineer of Electric Products at BAE Systems, thinks the painter would capture a variety of electrically powered ways to transport ourselves and our goods in 2050. She says: “In the future, we may be using a pod system for public transport, for example on a Hyperloop. These pods could look like the Maglev trains 186

monitoring drones.

Meanwhile, environmentally friendly hydrogen planes can be seen in the sky, with futuristic shapes that maximise fuel-efficiency and range of travel.

Kit Franklin, Senior Lecturer in Agricultural Engineering at Harper Adams University, says: “The artistic reinterpretation of Constable has

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2050, he’d see smaller fields with strips of different coloured crops, and less productive fields rewilded with trees, wild flowers and shrubs to boost biodiversity and pollination.”

Professor Susan Gourvenec, RAEng Chair in Emerging Technologies for Intelligent & Resilient Ocean www.lancmag.com

Engineering at the University of Southampton, whose ideas have been incorporated into a reimagined Monet, commented: “If Monet was to paint The Seashore at Sainte-Adresse in 2050, his famous seascape might feature offshore energy farms generating renewable energy through wind turbines or tidal power, which could be used to power homes or produce green hydrogen, and to refuel ocean-going cargo vessels offshore. Closer to the shore, sea-grass plantations might be visible, which would not only capture

and maximising efficiency.

Pissarro’s La Rue Saint-Honoré has been reworked to reflect a vision of the future in which a central hub links several public transport systems including an electrically powered monorail, vertical taxi station and underground stations.

Professor Chris Wise RDI FREng, Founder Partner of Expedition, says: “If Pissarro were to travel to Paris in 2050, he might find buildings that have been designed to take full advantage of their environment.

from an eye-infection and eventually went blind, would find getting round the city easier with colour coded areas and rumble strips, as well as a monorail system that dispenses with the need for a car. He’d also find less hard landscaping. As we see increased rainfall and flooding in the future, cities will have replaced concrete pavements with more permeable materials and greenery.”

Dr Rhys Morgan, Director of Engineering and Education at the Royal Academy of Engineering says: “The UK’s goal of reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050 is a massive undertaking. Decarbonisation on this time-scale and magnitude will bring widespread and rapid change to every aspect of daily life and meeting our goal of a net zero future will not be achieved without engineering expertise. From the ways we heat, cool and light our homes, to how we produce our food, how we build our houses and how we travel around, our future daily lives will be shaped by today’s engineers and engineering.

“These famous masterpieces originally captured a snapshot of daily life at a time when the consequences of carbon emissions were not known. By re-imagining them for 2050 we hope to start a conversation about how engineers can help shape our net zero future and inspire the next generation to join the profession. To realise the emission-saving technologies imagined in these artworks, the UK needs more engineers – for example, National Grid estimates that the UK energy sector alone will need to fill 400,000 roles between now and 2050 to reach net zero.”

carbon but also provide coastal protection and improve the coastal ecosystem and habitat for wildlife.”

The artist has also imagined a residential building on the coast that uses thermochromic windows to help to cool the house and generate solar power, reducing its carbon footprint www.lancmag.com

No side of a building would look the same: the south facing side is shaded and both east and west façades have screens to capture the morning and evening sun. The artist might also find chameleon buildings with a ‘skin’ that is responsive to sunlight and shade for temperature regulation. Pissarro, who suffered

In a bid to boost recruitment and challenge the narrow stereotypes of what engineers look like and do, This is Engineering Day is an annual reminder of the importance of engineering to our daily lives.

Created by The Royal Academy of Engineering in 2018, the day celebrates the varied and vital roles that engineers play, from developing medical technologies like brain scanners and clean energy solutions, to powering the social media platforms and smart phones we rely on to keep in touch every day.

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Talk of the Town Boutique

By Tina Penswick well received by her customers far and wide. When the covid 19 pandemic presented her with new challenges, She decided to use the opportunity to launch her brand new empire delivering quality, high fashion goods at reasonable prices and burst into the industry in may 2021 using social media as a platform.

Talk of the town boutique is an exciting new online female clothing boutique situated in the heart of Penwortham, Preston specialising in affordable women’s clothing and accessories with an emphasis on comfort and style.

We cater for women of all ages, shapes and sizes from a size 8 to a 32 and ship out to women all over the UK.

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outique owner, Tina, is a busy working mum of 2 with a history in the dance and theatre industry. Having travelled the world working onboard luxury cruise ship the QE2 working as a professional ballroom dancer, then running a chain of successful dancing schools for 20 years, Tina developed a unique and a touch flamboyant style that is very

Talk of the Town Boutique, or TOTT Boutique for short, has a Facebook page delivering twice weekly lives to women up and down the country and all over the world! It’s a fun and friendly online shopping experience with plenty of giggles and ladies enjoy the shopping experience from the comfort of their own homes. We take an in depth look at our latest products with new drops twice weekly including accessories such as scarves, handbags and jewellery.

Why not tune in and discover our world of freesize Italian fashion, you can watch along live and ask questions or catch up at a time to suit you. Find us on Facebook talk of the town boutique F @tottboutique and ‘like’ our page. Our website is www. talkofthetownboutique.com and we are offering all Lancashire Magazine readers 15% OFF their first order, just enter code: LANCSMAG1 at checkout

Mustard mix Coatigan with stretch belt

Tina is itching to show you her latest collections so grab a cuppa and join the fun!

NEW YEAR NEW TRENDS As we enter the coldest months of the year it’s easy (and warm!) to snuggle behind layers and layers of jumpers, cardigans and coats but just because it’s chilly it doesn’t mean we have to loose our sense of style.

My favourite pieces this season are the ‘Coatigan’ and the ‘shirtigan’ two fabulous pieces that can really jazz up any winter wardrobe.

Safari shirtigan with tan stretch belt and hat

These are a mixture between a coat and a cardigan and really spice up a winter look without compromising on comfort and warmth. I like to add a stretchy belt and hat rather than a hood. These items are freesize and fit an 8-22, freesize and fabulous as I like to call them!

Don’t be afraid to use colour this season either, there are some fantastic colours that are really on trend. My favourites are mustard and red. Add a splash of either by introducing a bright scarf or belt. Bold colours and prints are bang on trend at the moment so try adding a few pieces to your collection and see how you feel.

Once you refresh your look in this way you’ll never look back.

‘Tis the season and what better time to truly sparkle than the party season itself? I never need an excuse to get the glitter out and genuinely look forward to an opportunity to dress up. I once heard it said that you shouldn’t save your best clothes until best, everyday is special and a brand new opportunity to be the very best version of yourself.

Dressing your best helps you feel your best and that’s what it’s all about at TOTT Boutique. Accessories are often forgotten or overlooked, particularly if you’re busy like me. However, having the right items to hand can transform your look from plain jane to lady jane in no time. My go to accessory in winter is definitely a colourful scarf, warmth and pizzaz all in one, what’s not to like?

Versatility is key for me and these big and beautiful sheer scarfs can be used for so many looks and will take you all year round as well. A shawl over a cocktail dress in winter and a pashmina over a swimsuit in summer.

I always wear them, I even wrapped my babies in them when they were sleepy, put them down as a picnic blanket in summer and wrapped myself up in them when outside dining during lockdown.

Every woman needs a LBD or ‘little black dress’ but sometimes they can leave you feeling uncomfortable, on show and a little overdone. This winter I’m changing ‘little’ to oversized. Yes, I said what I said! Believe it or not an oversized dress can actually be more flattering than a tight fitting one.

My absolute favourite is our freesize and fabulous tunnel dress. It fits a size 8-22, comes in a range of colours and can easily be dressed up with a sparkly necklace or down with a scarf and boots. I love versatile clothing and this is certainly one of those items. It’s been a best seller for obvious reasons, roomy, flattering and feminine.

Nude tunnel dress That’s the same dress on two completely different ladies. I’m sure you’ll agree it’s sensational on both shapes and sizes.

I hope I’ve given you some ideas and inspiration and look forward to introducing you to some more pieces in spring.

Don’t forget we are offering all Lancashire Magazine readers

15% OFF your first order, just enter code: LANCSMAG1 at checkout

Blue tunnel dress

Red coatigan with leopard sheer scarf

South Pennines Launches Alternative National Park tourism, transport, heritage and conservation. It offers a new model for how non-designated areas can contribute to the government’s objectives on levelling up and restoring our natural environment and pursues an integrated approach to environmental, social and economic objectives.

The idea for the Park was first discussed in the 1940s, and today represents a key milestone in its development.

The operating model has been set up by Pennine Prospects, who are working in partnership with local authorities in the park area, as well as Natural England, United Utilities, Yorkshire Water, the National Trust, transport providers and other communities and conservation groups.

An alternative National Park - covering 460 square miles of Yorkshire, Lancashire and Greater Manchester - was launched on September 8th 2021.

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outh Pennines Park aims to bolster recognition and unlock financial resources for the only upland in England that is not a designated National Park or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

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Helen Noble, Chief Executive of Pennine Prospects, which will be also renamed South Pennines Park, says: “The need for a Park was absolutely clear because the South Pennines Park region needs a champion at national level to fight for it, protect it and seek sustainable investment.

Over 8 million people live within 30 minutes of the park and more than 660,000 live in it - twice the population of all the English National Park put together. It is an area of stunning scenery; a spectacular ever-evolving landscape that has been moulded and shaped by the people, the packhorses, footsteps of yesteryear; rich in industrial and cultural heritage.

“What we are launching is an exciting, bold and forward-thinking vision for one of the UK’s most diverse and unique regions. www.lancmag.com

Adds Helen Noble:

“We’re excited to be taking an inclusive approach to making the South Pennines Park work for the people who live, work and visit it.

Because it will unlock the resources needed to ensure residents and visitors enjoy the positive benefits of being closer to nature.”

The South Pennines Park is situated between Greater Manchester, the Peak District, the Yorkshire Dales, and West Yorkshire, covers 460 sq miles and is home to more than 660,000 people.

The move to establish the new support structure for the South Pennines Park follows on from the Government-commissioned Glover Review into the future of the nation’s designated landscapes. This called for alternative models to be looked at and specifically cited the South Pennines Park as a prime candidate for a different approach.

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“We are bringing together communities, public and privates sector bodies and other stakeholders and together we have a shared vision for the South Pennines Park and we are all committed to working together champion the area.

“As well as bringing together communities in the South Pennines we are also talking to Government and MPs about our approach. Without the Park each body is left to compete against each other for funding. This approach means they can pool resources and drive collaboration in key areas like conservation, tourism, transport and hospitality. But a common thread for all our partners is ensuring we connect people to nature.”

ABOUT SOUTH PENNINES PARK/PENNINE PROSPECTS Situated between Peak District, Yorkshire Dales, Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire, South Pennines Park is 460 sq. miles and includes urban and rural areas. 660,000 people live in the park - twice as many as the 10 English National Parks put together - and as it sits between the big conurbations of Greater Manchester, Bradford and Leeds, more than 8 million people have access to the park within 30 minutes.

South Pennines Park is a partnership of different councils, conservation bodies, business consortiums and other stakeholders who will work together to protect the future of the area.

Established in 2005 to promote, protect and enhance the natural and cultural heritage of the South Pennines, Pennine Prospects (now South Pennines Park), has raised £15m for major landscape projects, generating a more than £45m of investment in the area. As South Pennines Park it now focused on championing the area. It will do so by securing funding and delivering innovative community-led projects by bringing partners together and helping people connect to nature within the park.

The idea of a South Pennines Park was first mentioned in both the Hobhouse and Dower Reports that set out the need for special places and for the nation to look after them - 1940s.

Local Partnerships in the shape of local authorities, water companies, third, public and private sectors saw the benefit of working together and collectively to look after the South Pennines for the socio-economic benefit of the area. This came into the fore in the 1970s onwards.

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VEGANUARY CHANGES PEOPLE’S LIVES One of the most exciting things about taking part in Veganuary is our participants never know what a month of plant-based eating will do for them. Commonly, we hear of improved digestion, clearer skin, better sleep and more energy, but often the benefits are even more profound. This is what Veganuary has meant for four former participants:

CHRISTINA, MERSEYSIDE Christina had been suffering for many years with an allergic reaction although doctors had never been able to pinpoint the culprit. Christina suffered regular flare-ups which caused whole-body itching, her face to swell and problems breathing. It was terrifying, the medication only barely helped, but there was no end in sight. Christina actually signed up to take part in Veganuary because she had heard about the suffering in the egg and dairy industries and, although her motivation was ethical, she experienced massive - and very fast - improvements in her health. Five years on, Christina – still a vegan – takes needs no medication at all and has experienced no flare ups. Those terrible days are, it seems, gone forever.

MORNÉ, LONDON Morné and his partner had also watched The Game Changers, and since both work in healthcare, they decided to give Veganuary a go. Morné describes this as the best life decision he has ever made, and alongside more energy, better digestion, quicker recovery from exercise, and peace of mind, he found his cholesterol levels tumbled. ‘I did a cholesterol check as I come from a family where some males are prone to having high cholesterol and heart issues,’ he says. ‘I was so amazed to see a decrease into the healthy range after only three or four months. I have never felt better!’

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Proud supporters of

MARIA, GLASGOW

BEFORE

Maria had tried every diet under the sun, but none had worked. She decided to try Veganuary. After watching The Game Changers documentary, her ‘committed carnivore’ husband Dez, who has leukaemia, decided to join her.

‘It’s changed our lives!’ says Maria. ‘My mental health improved, I have more energy, I am less bloated, I sleep better, my skin is better, I have less aches and pains that I put down to getting older. I just feel alive again.’ Maria has lost 50 lbs, and Dez 32. Best of all Dez’s stats are all stable and he hasn’t needed antibiotics at all. ‘We don’t know if this is due to being vegan, but this is the only thing that has changed and that speaks volumes.’

AFTER

SHEREEN, SHEFFIELD As a competing boxer, Shereen’s weight is constantly watched and has to be managed. Having conducted her own research into the benefits to athletes of eating a plant-based diet, she decided to give it a try, and took part in Veganuary 2020. She found she lost weight simply by changing to a vegan diet, without any thought of ‘dieting’. She lost body fat, became leaner and her weight no longer fluctuates.

‘My coach noticed a difference in training, particularly in terms of endurance,’ she says. ‘I could work harder for longer without tiring as much as I used to, like I was running off a better fuel source.’

Veganuary is a charity (registered in England and Wales no. 1168566) that encourages people worldwide to try vegan for January and beyond.

Sign up with us today and start your vegan journey! veganuary.com/try-vegan

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Proud supporters of

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THREE CLASSIC BRITISH DISHES THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF OUR FOOD CHOICES IS NOT ALWAYS OBVIOUS. MENUS AND LABELS DON’T YET TELL US, AND WE CANNOT ALWAYS TRUST OUR INTUITION. For example, many of us think about food miles and do our best to choose local produce but in reality, the distance a product has been transported is actually a very small part of its impact. As environmental journalist George Monbiot calculated, a banana flown six times round the world has a smaller carbon footprint than a piece of beef from just down the road. And while we may think farmed fish is a sustainable choice, Oxford University researchers were shocked to discover how high the emissions from fish farms really are.

So, here are three everyday meals - one a meat version, the other vegan - which show the practical difference our choices can make.

Multiply this by the meals your family eats in a year and it is easy to see why choosing plantbased foods is a powerful tool for reducing our climate impact.

MEAL 1: SHEPHERD’S PIE: MEAT OR VEG We’ll take a basic recipe. In one version, we’ll use minced beef, dairy milk and butter. In the other, we’ll use the same quantities of lentils, soya milk and dairyfree butter.

• 1 tbsp Sunflower Oil • 1 Onion • 2-3 Carrots • 500g Pack Minced Beef / Lentils • 2 tbsp Tomato Puree • 500ml Stock • 900g Potatoes • 85g Butter / Dairy-Free Butter • 3 tbsp Cows’ Milk / Soya Milk

NOTE: we used Tuco’s Greenhouse Gas Footprint Calculator, and kept the recipes identical wherever possible: www.tuco.ac.uk/ghgcalculator/index.html

Veganuary is a charity (registered in England and Wales no. 1168566) that encourages people worldwide to try vegan for January and beyond.

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• 1 tsp Mixed Herbs

MEAT MEAL: Total greenhouse gases for this four-person meal are 16.18 kg CO2e THAT IS EQUIVALENT TO DRIVING 54.28 MILES IN AN AVERAGE UK PETROL CAR

VEGAN MEAL: Total greenhouse gases for this four-person meal are 4.4 kg CO2e THAT IS EQUIVALENT TO DRIVING 14.76 MILES IN AN AVERAGE UK PETROL CAR Proud supporters of

GET A LOW CARBON MAKEOVER

MEAL 3: CHICKEN CURRY VERSUS CHICKPEA CURRY MEAL 2: ROAST LAMB VERSUS NUT ROAST

For this recipe we’ll simply switch chicken for the same weight in chickpeas.

For the meat version, we’ll simply roast the meat with a little oil, while for the vegan version, the ingredients we’ll use are below. Both serve four people.

• 2 tbsp Oil

• 1 Medium Onion

• 500g Chicken / Chickpeas

• 2 tbsp Oil

• 2 Cloves Garlic

• 150ml Stock

• 3 tbsp Curry Powder

• 225g Chopped Mixed Nuts

• 2 tbsp Tomato Puree

• 2 tbsp Ground Almonds

• 400g Chopped Tomatoes

• 100g Breadcrumbs

• 250ml Stock

• 1 tbsp Herbs

• 60g Spinach

MEAT MEAL: Total greenhouse gases for this four-person meal are 20.02 kg CO2e THAT IS EQUIVALENT TO DRIVING 67.16 MILES IN AN AVERAGE UK PETROL CAR

VEGAN MEAL: Total greenhouse gases for this four-person meal are 1.43 kg CO2e THAT IS EQUIVALENT TO DRIVING 4.8 MILES IN AN AVERAGE UK PETROL CAR LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE

• 1 Large Onion

MEAT MEAL: Total greenhouse gases for this four-person meal are 6.61 kg CO2e THAT IS EQUIVALENT TO DRIVING 22.17 MILES IN AN AVERAGE UK PETROL CAR

VEGAN MEAL: Total greenhouse gases for this four-person meal are 3.48 kg CO2e THAT IS EQUIVALENT TO DRIVING 11.67 MILES IN AN AVERAGE UK PETROL CAR Proud supporters of

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Crispy Tofu with Sweet and Sour Peppers and Pineapple Recipe Development for Del Monte® INGREDIENTS: • 280g extra-firm tofu • 2 tbsp cornflour • Salt and pepper • 2 tbsp vegetable oil • 1 can (435g) Del Monte® Pineapple Chunks in Juice, drained, juice reserved • 1 yellow pepper, thinly sliced • 1 red pepper, thinly sliced • Thinly sliced spring onions, to serve Method: 1. Mix the sauce ingredients together thoroughly and set aside.

2. Cut the block of tofu into small cubes. Put in a mixing bowl and sprinkle over the cornflour and plenty of salt and pepper. Toss together with your hands so that the tofu is coated in the cornflour.

3. Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan over a fairly high heat. Add the tofu and cook for about 6 minutes, tossing now and again, or until golden and crisp.

Remove from the pan with a spatula, leaving the oil in the pan, and put on kitchen paper to drain.

VEGAN | SERVES 3-4 PREP TIME: 15 minutes | COOK TIME: 20 minutes INGREDIENTS FOR THE SAUCE: • 4 tbsp soy sauce • 6 tbsp Del Monte® Pineapple Juice (from the can of Del Monte® Pineapple Chunks in Juice mentioned in the main ingredient list to the right) • 3 tbsp tomato puree • 4 tbsp rice vinegar • 3 tbsp sugar • 2 cloves garlic, crushed or finely grated • Good pinch of dried chilli flakes 196

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4. Keeping the pan over a medium-high heat, add the pineapple chunks. Let them cook for 3-4 minutes, tossing once or twice, so they start to take on some colour.

5. Add the sliced peppers and cook for another 5 minutes or so, stirring or tossing now and again, until softened.

Tip the sauce into the pan and stir with the pineapple and pepper. Cook for a couple of minutes so that the sauce is bubbling and reduced but not cooked away to nothing.

6. Spoon rice into 3-4 bowls. Divide the peppers and pineapple between the bowls, then add the crispy tofu.

Sprinkle with thinly sliced spring onion and serve.

Proud supporters of

Pear Brownies Recipe Development for Del Monte® VEGAN (please check ingredients on products used) SERVES 20 | PREP TIME: 30 minutes COOK TIME: 25 minutes, plus cooling

INGREDIENTS: • 300g dark chocolate, roughly chopped or broken up • 200ml vegetable oil • 2 tsp vanilla extract • 300g soft light brown sugar • 2 cans (415g) Del Monte® Pear Halves in Juice • 200g plain flour • 100g ground almonds • Pinch of salt METHOD: 1. Preheat the oven to 180C/gas 4 and line a baking tin 20 x 25cm with baking parchment.

2. Put the broken chocolate, oil, vanilla and sugar in a medium-large saucepan. Put over a low heat and melt together, stirring often, until smooth. It’s important not LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE

to let the chocolate get too hot – keep the temperature low. Remove from the heat as soon as everything is melted together and leave to cool slightly.

3. Drain the cans of pears (you won’t need the juice).

Put the pears in a bowl and use a stick blender to blitz them to a smooth puree. You can also do this in a jug blender.

4. Stir the pear puree into the pan of chocolate mixture.

5. Combine the flour, almonds and salt and stir into the chocolate pear mix until thoroughly combined. Tip into the prepared tin, spread out and bake for 25 minutes until firm. Leave to cool completely in the tin before cutting into 20 squares.

TOP TIP: For a sophisticated twist, add 50ml of very strong black coffee (e.g espresso) to the saucepan to enhance the rich flavour of the brownies.

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Nature’s On The Phone With New Brockholes App Nature lovers are finding answers to their wildlife questions at their fingertips while they are exploring one of Lancashire’s most-loved wildlife sites.

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free wildlife app is now available to download and is guiding visitors around Brockholes Nature Reserve in Preston, bringing them closer to the incredible wildlife that lives there.

Not only is the app the ultimate wildlife guide, but it also features an interactive family trail to follow around the nature reserve.

Thanks to amazing augmented reality technology, visitors can follow the trail as Badger appears within the nature reserve around you.

Point the brand new app at special markers along the trail and watch the Brockholes Badger come to life. Capture the fun by taking videos and photos with Badger as you enjoy an exciting family day out.

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www.lancmag.com

The brand new app also includes iNaturalist - a clever guide to identifying wild plants and animals. Simply take a picture and the app will find the correct species name, so you know exactly what you have found. This fantastic resource allows you to discover new species, learn more about nature and help national record keeping by recording your wildlife and nature sightings.

The app has been kindly gifted to The Lancashire Wildlife Trust by Praxis Operations, to help support the charity’s mission to inspire people about the natural world and protect wildlife for the future.

Lindsey Shaw, Lancashire Wildlife Trust Director of Marketing, said: “There is amazing wildlife around every corner at Brockholes, and our app will help visitors to discover and understand every bird, bee, butterfly and bat that they might spot.

“We have been so pleased with the positive feedback from visitors. We are hoping that the app will help our visitors to learn about our incredible local wildlife and inspire them to take action to protect it.”

Nova Rehman, Founder, Praxis Operations, said: “We are delighted to support the Lancashire Wildlife Trust with the gift of this evolving technology and are now keen to see the impact of it being deployed across the Wildlife Trusts nationally.

“We hope it will engage nature lovers of all ages in a fun way, whilst creating awareness of the sterling work undertaken by the trust. Whilst we are particularly pleased with the augmented reality nature trail, this is the first iteration and you can expect more and exciting functions to be added over the coming months.

“As a company, we are committed to manifesting a positive impact wherever we tread, and we are proud to be supporting the excellent team at Lancashire Wildlife Trust.”

The app can be enjoyed by the whole family and will bring you closer to the natural world around you.

Available on iPhone and Android devices, the app can be downloaded from the iTunes store and the Android Market Place.

FIND OUT MORE AND DOWNLOAD IT FOR FREE AT: brockholes.org/lancashire-wildlife-trust-app or search “Lancashire Wildlife Trust” in the app stores, or scan the relevant QR Code opposite.

The Wildlife Trusts 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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Woodland Trust to Establish New 70-acre Woods for The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee

Photo Credit: Woodland Trust / Niall Benvie 2012

A plan to create dozens of 70-acre woods in celebration of The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022 has been unveiled by the Woodland Trust.

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he United Kingdom’s largest woodland conservation charity is calling on landowners to help mark Her Majesty’s 70-year reign as part of The Queen’s Green Canopy (QGC) – a unique tree-planting initiative which is inviting people from across the UK to ‘Plant a Tree for the Jubilee’.

Creating up to 70 ‘Platinum Jubilee Woods’ supports the Woodland Trust’s long-term mass scale woodland

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ambitions and will help tackle the climate and nature crisis.

“This is an exciting and ambitious project that will be a fitting way to celebrate Her Majesty’s 70 years of service,” said Dr Darren Moorcroft, chief executive of the Woodland Trust.

“We want landowners to play a crucial role in this incredible initiative which will not only be a fantastic living and growing legacy for Her Majesty but will also help fight climate change and create essential new woodland habitats.”

The QGC is encouraging everyone to play their part to enhance our environment by planting trees during the official planting season until

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March 2022, with tree planting to start again in October through to the end of the Jubilee year.

Colonel Dan Rex, chief executive of The Queen’s Green Canopy, said: “We are delighted that our partners, the Woodland Trust, are leading this significant and ambitious contribution to The Queen’s Green Canopy.

“We appeal to all landowners who may have land available to support this important initiative.”

As part of its 70-acre woods plan, the Woodland Trust will offer expert advice on planting the right trees in the right place, as well as guidance on management, financial support and grant applications. www.lancmag.com

a role in increasing tree numbers to help nature recover and to help tackle the climate crisis.”

Trees can play a huge part in tackling climate change and the Woodland Trust is aiming to establish at least 50 million new trees by 2025.

Dr Moorcroft continued: “Not only do we need more trees, what we have are still at risk and nature is in decline.

“The woods and trees we establish today will join our army of existing trees which are working tirelessly to clean our air, improve our mental health and capture carbon – as well as providing safe places for our wildlife to flourish.

“We remain one of the least wooded countries at 13% woodland cover, compared to an average of 37% in the rest of Europe. But we can all play www.lancmag.com

Trees are only part of the solution in the ongoing fight to reduce global CO2 emissions, but to help reach the UK government’s 2050 target to become carbon net zero the UK’s woodland cover needs to increase from 13% to at least 19%.

Woods and trees can help prevent flooding, cool city temperatures, reduce pollution and keep soil nutrient rich.

The UK is also facing a nature crisis.

But restoring precious habitats and planting new native woodland with UK-grown trees, will extend and create havens for wildlife and boost biodiversity.

The Woodland Trust is a leading delivery partner of The Queen’s Green Canopy. Schools and community groups are able to apply for up to three million free saplings in tree packs, through the Free Trees for Schools and Communities Scheme.

If you would like to get involved in the Woodland Trust’s Platinum Jubilee Woods initiative, you can contact us to find out more by emailing E QGCWoods@woodlandtrust.org.uk.

Please send a brief description of the planned wood along with the location and a map.

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Luxury Homes Go On Sale at Redrow’s Sycamore Manor HOMEBUYERS can now secure some of Redrow’s premium house styles that are not yet available in Lancashire as the first wave of homes are released for sale at Sycamore Manor, Whittle-le-Woods.

Above: An example of the homes Redrow is building in Lancashire.

The first four homes on the housebuilder’s latest development, off Mottram Close, are now available to reserve.

They include the four-bedroom Richmond and Henley and three-bedroom Leamington Lifestyle.

Sycamore Manor will eventually be home to 39 homes. As it stands, it will be the only development in Lancashire where the housebuilder is building some of its most luxurious house styles including the Balmoral, Richmond and Blenheim.

Sian Pitt, sales director at Redrow Lancashire said: “Sycamore Green will satisfy a strong demand for large family homes in this area. It will include a selection of three-, four- and fivebedroom family homes from our award-winning Heritage Collection. There are also some of our popular ‘Lifestyle’ homes where fewer bedrooms mean larger, more luxurious bedrooms, each with their own en-suites.”

At 2,030 sq ft, the Richmond is a magnificent four-bedroom family home. It has an open plan kitchen with adjoining dining and family areas plus a separate lounge. It also has additional rooms such as a utility room and garage to serve a family’s practical needs.

Upstairs there are four double bedrooms. The main bedroom enjoys the height of luxury, with both an en-suite and dressing room and bedroom two also comes with its own en-suite.

The further bedrooms share a bathroom.

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Sycamore Manor is being sold from Worden Gardens in Leyland and would-be purchasers can visit three show homes and view things like floorplans and layouts for all the homes being built at Sycamore Manor.

“We would encourage any potential buyers to visit the show homes at Worden Gardens as they will be able to see the quality of our homes for themselves and see our wide range of options to personalise their home interiors,” adds Sian.

And if buyers have an existing home to sell, Redrow can even help with that too meaning buyers can start their new life sooner.

Located within easy reach of the M61, Sycamore Manor makes commuting to cities such as Preston, Manchester and Liverpool simple. There are a range of schools on the doorstep plus pubs and golf clubs and Chorley Train Station is less than three miles down the road taking residents to places such as Blackpool, Preston and Manchester.

More house types that will soon be available include the three-bed Oxford Lifestyle, the four-bedroom Balmoral and Oxford and the five-bedroom Blenheim and Marlborough.

To find out more, speak to Redrow’s sales team by calling 01772 340811.

Alternatively visit www.redrow.co.uk/sycamoremanor www.lancmag.com

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To find out more, visit Delamere.com or contact our admissions team on 0330 111 2015

Declutter with Laura Getting into the flow of a New Year can be a busy and somewhat overwhelming time and that’s why this month’s column is all about helping you to let go of physical and mental clutter, so that you can prioritise peace, clarity and joy for the year ahead.

Most people associate clutter with physical things; our stuff, our items, our physical possessions, and yes, these things can indeed be clutter.

But clutter is so much more than just physical stuff. We can have cluttered minds and lifestyles too! My definition of clutter is anything that you don’t use, need, value or love. Clutter is anything that doesn’t serve you or contribute to the life you want to live.

Here are three things that you should declutter this January:

Laura Pearson is an Intentional Life Coach and Professional Declutterer & Organiser, based in Lancashire. Her mission is to help people to consciously create, live and love their own version of an intentional life and clutter-free, organised space.

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big hello to 2022 and to each of you! Can you believe that January is here, along with my first column for The Lancashire Magazine? Being a proud northerner from Lancashire myself, I am so excited to share my tips and tricks with you to help you declutter your space, mind and life so that you can live with more clarity, peace and contentment.

As we all know, January is typically the month of fresh starts, New Year’s Resolutions and lots of stuff! Most of us have overflowing cupboards of Christmas treats, an accumulation of festive decorations dotted around the house and stacks of gifts (some unwanted) with nowhere to live.

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UNWANTED GIFTS As a Coach and Professional Declutterer and Organiser, gifts are one of the most popular items that clients struggle to let go of and feel conflicted about. But we need to remember that when somebody gives us a gift, the gift is actually the thought behind it, the time and energy spent, and the fact that somebody has gone out of their way to get and give us the gift. There is absolutely no point in holding onto gifts that you aren’t going to use, need, love or value. You don’t need to feel bad about letting them go and decluttering them either. You can donate them (to a charity shop or Women’s Shelter for example), sell them, re-gift them, or give them away to somebody who will benefit from them.

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CHRISTMAS LEFTOVERS We can probably all find some form of Christmas leftovers dotted around the house. Whether it’s Christmassy treats and food that we didn’t eat, unused gift wrapping and unwritten cards, gifts without a place to live, or items that we haven’t got around to putting away in the busyness of the Christmas season.

Carve out some time to tackle whatever physical Christmas related clutter is currently occupying your space. You may choose to declutter and let it go or find a rightful place

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for it to live in your home. Remember that anything that is Christmas related won’t be used for the next 11 months, so it probably doesn’t need to be in sight.

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COMPARISON January is THE month of New Year’s Resolutions and goal setting. I think I can vouch for all of us when I say that we’ll probably hear “New Year, New Me” more times than we’d like to. I’m all for goal setting and implementing changes that will transform your life for the better – I even coach my clients on goal setting and taking aligned action as part of my 1:1 Coaching Programme: Intentional.

But I’m not into the comparison, competitiveness and feelings of guilt and even shame around goal setting, especially in January. January can be a tough month. We can feel tired, low in energy, unmotivated as we return to “real life” after the Christmas break and even drained from Christmas come down. Keep this in mind and don’t be hard on yourself when it comes to setting goals or rushing to achieve them. It doesn’t matter what anybody else is doing or what goals they have set themselves. It doesn’t matter if you don’t set goals. It doesn’t matter if you set goals and “fail” to achieve them. Declutter comparison.

Stay focused on you and what will bring you the most joy in 2022.

Happy Decluttering!

I wish you all the best for 2022.

I’d love to know what you’ll choose to let go of this month. Reach out to me on email or social media to let me know.

Connect with Laura D www.laurapearsoncoaching.com I @laurapearsoncoaching F @laurapearsoncoaching E laura@laurapearsoncoaching.com Download Laura’s free guide – 5 Steps to Start Decluttering your Life at: www.laurapearsoncoaching.com/ 5-steps-to-start-decluttering-freebie www.lancmag.com

If you’ve been searching for a place to help you declutter, organise and simplify your space, mind and life, so that you can live with more clarity, peace and contentment, this is it!

Laura is an Intentional Life Coach and Professional Declutterer & Organiser based in Lancashire.

Her mission is to help people to consciously create, live and love their own version of an intentional life and clutter-free, organised space.

She does this through her services outlined below:

VIRTUAL AND IN-PERSON DECLUTTERING AND ORGANISING PACKAGES

Declutter, organise and simplify your home or workspace. With packages to suit all budgets, Laura can help you to confidently let go of clutter and organise in ways that work for you. Transform any space in your property or business.

Wardrobes, living spaces, bedrooms, offices, kitchens, garages and everything in between. Choose from in-person at home sessions or virtual support.

INTENTIONAL: 1:1 COACHING PROGRAMME

Intentional is Laura’s Signature 1:1 Coaching Programme. It supports you to connect within, get clear about what you really want, transform your mindset, and set goals, so that you can create and live your version of an intentional life. It takes you from feeling lost, stuck, and unfulfilled, to feeling connected, purposeful and excited about your life! Choose from a single session, 6 week, or 12 week programme.

FIND OUT MORE AND BOOK

EMAIL: laura@laurapearsoncoaching.com to book your FREE no obligation consultation call and make a booking.

VISIT: www.laurapearsoncoaching.com for more information.

DOWNLOAD: Laura’s free guide – 5 Steps to Start Decluttering your Life at www.laurapearsoncoaching.com/5-stepsto-start-decluttering-freebie CONNECT: with Laura on Instagram and Facebook @laurapearsoncoaching

By Paul Cusimano, Joseph Clothing, Lancaster

Nestled between Lancaster Castle and the Ashton Memorial, is our beautiful Georgian City centre. Approaching the City from Kellet Lane is my favoured route. It always offers an amazing vista, whatever the weather, whatever the time of day It will be fifteen years since we went to Tuscany for a week. We visited Forte dei Marmi, Pisa, Lucca and Florence. The view of Lancaster from the crest of Kellet Lane, for some inexplicable reason, takes me back to Tuscany, in particular, Florence.

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erhaps it’s the tiered amphitheatre effect created by the rows of Victorian terrace properties that fall from the Ashton Memorial down to the City centre, a view that reminds me of the amphitheatre at the Palazzo Medici Of course, we don’t have the Ponte Vecchio, or a replica of Michelangelo’s ‘David’ stood in our Squares, but we do have absolute gems tucked away. The Music Room in Sun Street Square dates back to the seventeen thirty two whilst Lancaster’s Grand Theatre, the third oldest provincial theatre in Britain, dates back to seventeen eighty two.

Prior to this theatre being built,

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theatrical performances were carried out in barns and suitably sized inns.

“The Theatre, Lancaster” as it was originally called, opened in June of seventeen eighty two and its first two plays, William Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” and Hannah Crawley’s

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“The Belle’s Strategem” received great reviews. In seventeen ninety five, Welsh actress Sarah Siddons played Lady Macbeth in William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth“. Italian violinist Niccolo Paganini graced the theatre in eighteen thirty three. www.lancmag.com

Sarah Siddons Playing Lady Macbeth

In nineteen fifty one, the theatre was on the verge of being demolished when it was bought, and therefore saved, by ‘Lancaster Footlights’ who still own and run it under a trust arrangement.

By the late nineteen seventies a significant amount of money was required to carry out remedial works on the two hundred year old theatre. Over six hundred and sixty seven thousand pounds was raised and under the guardianship of this fantastic charity (registered in nineteen seventy two) the condition of the building today is as good as when it was first built.

Paganini Played ‘The Theatre, Lancaster’

During the nineteenth century, the theatre changed ownership and was extended and altered a number of times. Meetings and lectures were also carried out there.

In nineteen zero eight the theatre was damaged by fire, but the interior was rebuilt and the theatre reopened in the same year.

The theatre was, and still is, used for both amateur and professional performances. In the nineteen twenties, what was going to be a very important amateur dramatic society, the ‘Lancaster Footlights’, began performing at the then called “Grand Theatre”. www.lancmag.com

What I particularly love is that they have maintained the period features of that bygone era. Features that are being lost because the buildings they are housed in are being left to fall into disrepair and the appetite for new, modern, purpose built, grows. The mid to late twentieth century saw many such buildings flattened.

At this point two words spring to mind, ‘economics’ and ‘nostalgia’. Running and maintaining such buildings is expensive. Therefore, nostalgia is expensive. The world has changed since “The Theatre” was first built.

We now have movies, televisions, cinema’s and cd’s that give the masses twenty four seven entertainment. Your modern day Paganini’s and Caruso’s perform in football stadiums for greater remuneration, not 460 seat theatres.

There lies the root of the problem and the reason so many have fallen into disrepair and are no longer.

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Upper Circle

Features From Different Times

Keeping Its Many Original Features

Treat Yourself To A Box

done sympathetically. Humble, unassuming, and one of those rare people that you immediately warm to.

Every Genre Catered For

So let’s add another two words into the mix; ‘passion’ and ‘vision’. ‘Lancaster Footlights’ have both. The passion to drive forward, and the vision to make it viable whilst maintaining the theatre’s integrity.

In two thousand and four a new Theatre Manager, Ellie Singleton, was recruited. Ellie encompasses so many qualities. Full of passion and has a great vision of what Lancaster Grand should be. She understands and is so committed to the arts that everything is being 208

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Magic happens when the right people come together, whether by accident or by design. Ellie came in to join a similarly dedicated Board, a couple of members of staff and an army of volunteers. This is a new chapter, a renaissance, in the theatres 240 year history. There is a full programme of shows, both amateur and professional, covering every genre and every season. Celebrities, like comedian John Bishop, appear regularly. The chat show King himself, Sir Michael Parkinson, has recently appeared doing “An Evening With ….” performance.

This is a truly versatile theatre and one that is again going to be treated to some further development. A two point two million pound extension, mixing old and new, that will be in keeping with the building www.lancmag.com

John Bishop Performs Regularly At Lancaster Grand

TAKE A LOOK AT THEIR WEBSITE lancastergrand.co.uk AND EXPLORE ALL THAT THEY HAVE TO ENTERTAIN YOU. BOOK SOME TICKETS. BOOK DINNER. BOOK INTO ONE OF OUR FANTASTIC BOUTIQUE ROOMS AND ENJOY LANCASTER. An Evening With Sir Michael Parkinson

itself and the splendid Georgian landscape. A real Planning Officers dream. Making it accessible for all without losing its architectural integrity.

The best memories are a complete experience. A performance can be fabulous, but if conducted in poor surroundings, it detracts from the experience. A great performance in great surroundings equals the complete experience, and long lasting memories.

Lancaster Grand is a superb theatre but as I mentioned at the outset, almost hidden away. Like ‘The Music Room’ in Sun Square, few people stumble across it, but when they do, they find something truly beautiful and something the likes of which are becoming extremely rare. www.lancmag.com

Lancaster Grand - 2022 Extension LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE 209

H I , I ' M A N I TA "I work with people who have autoimmune conditions such as chronic fatigue, ME, pain conditions and any immune compromised fibromyalgia, thyroid, irritable bowel to name a few. I create a bespoke step by step transformation guide and nutritious healing plan to help you boost your energy and revitalise your health, so that you can Get Well and Stay Well allowing you to regain control of your life and get back on track for good."

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January 2022

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THE POSITIVE

January

ESP Bathroom Retailer of the Year 2021

A Party Like No

at Tweedies Bar

CHANGE COACH

Freedom Confidenc e Clarity

Veganuary

Try Vegan This

BREAK FROM THE DIET CYCLE With Anti-Diet Empowerment Coach, Margaret

The Whitebirk

Other

& Lodge

ANNA BAKER SKIN CLINIC Specialising in Safe Proven, Cutting-E and Clinically dge Skin Treatmen ts

Sink Compan

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WITH LOVE

Get Back Your Glow at the Dr Yusra Clinic ROOMS ULTRASPACE GARDEN Rooms Bespoke Garden Cost Without a Premium

Dave Gregson An Adventure

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LAKELAND ere Flagship Winderm Store and Café

COMPANY LANCASTER BED Get a Here to Help You Sleep Great Night’s

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FARFIFIELD MILL gallery set Art, craft & heritage Dales the Yorkshire on the edge of

from Laurus Homes

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Christmas Came Early For Us This Year Winner Of

‘Retailer Of The Year’ We Wish To Thank Everyone For Their Continued Support