9 minute read
Freckle Boutique
Mum 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.
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“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 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.”
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!“ 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
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.
Oldham 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.
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. 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. Oldham Coliseum Theatre 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. 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. 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.
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 Alexandra of Denmark 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. Daisy Nook Country Park 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. 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. 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.
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. THE WANDERING GOURMET How is a holiday list ever complete without exploring the plethora of food options that the place has to offer? 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. From their ribs and briskets to brownie sizzlers, this eatery is truly a meat lover’s dream come true.
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.
