Live Preston & Fylde Issue 101 Sept 2021 by Live_Magazines

YOUR PREMIER GUIDE

TO LUXURY LIVING • ISSUE 101

LANCASHIRE WOMEN THE CHARITY THAT’S SUPPORTING LOCAL PROFESSIONAL WOMEN WITH THE TOLL OF COVID IT’S TIME TO SHOW UP, WISE UP AND RISE UP MEET THE QUEEN BEE GO ON A LOCAL SAFARI TAKE UP BIRDING

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CONTENTS F E AT U R E S

12 SUPPORTING LANCASHIRE WOMEN WITH THE STRAINS OF THE PANDEMIC Research would imply that it was working class women that were hardest hit by the pandemic and the charity that’s there to help 50 LIVING SOBER Take the challenge to cut down on the booze 92 BACK TO SCHOOL ANXIETY How to help kids manage worries and have a successful start to the school year 102 SHOW UP, WISE UP AND RISE UP With Dani Wallace the self proclaimed Queen Bee 112 A SAFARI ON OUR DOORSTEP Enjoy wildlife safari close to home 114 SPANISH RESTAURANT DREAMS Preston Entrepreneur opening a new city centre restaurant

REGULARS 8 EDITOR’S LETTER 15 HOMES INSIDE OUT 44 FASHION 50 HEALTH & BEAUTY 60 LIFESTYLE 92 EDUCATION 102 BUSINESS 106 MOTORS 112 SPORT 114 FOOD & DRINK

102

122 WHAT’S ON 124 PROPERTY

114

LIVE MAGAZINES Chairman: Simon Smith Managing Director: Tedd Walmsley Company Secretary: Elizabeth Walmsley Editor: Helen Sanderson Graphic Designers: Nick Dittrich and Rob Walmsley Operations Manager: Kate Hyde Production Manager: James Britton Photography: Shane Davies, Robin Lyndon, Roger Moore and Andy Tighe Sales Account Managers: Jane Hughes 07875 696 928 Michele Preston 07872 461 561 Editorial Contributors: Kate Bowyer, Mike Ebdy, Meena McDonald and Elizabeth Walker Live Magazines Limited Office 2, The Old Bakery Green Street Lytham FY8 5LG T: 01772 319 465 live@live-magazines.co.uk www.live-magazines.co.uk LIVE PRESTON & FYLDE magazine is hand delivered to selected households and businesses in Barton, Bretherton, Broughton, Buckshaw Village, Cottam, Croston, Eaves, Elswick, Garstang, Great Eccleston, Freckleton, Fulwood, Hutton, Kirkham, Little Eccleston, Longton, Lytham, Much Hoole, New Longton, Newton with Scales, Penwortham, Warton, Wesham, Whittle-Le-Woods, and Wrea Green. Live Magazines Limited cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts or photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Live Magazines Ltd takes no responsibility for omissions and errors. We reserve the right to publish and credit any letters. All rights reserved. An annual subscription is available at £17.50, to cover postage and packaging. For details of subscriptions please email subscriptions@live-magazines.co.uk. For advertising please contact us on 01772 319 465.

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Magazines Editor I love September … as a child, the month always conjured up the promise of new beginnings (or a least a new pencil case). With my daughters going back to school, it now provides me with a natural opportunity to reflect on the progress of the year so far and realign my goals to maximise success as we hurtle toward the end of another year. My family and I had a great summer. Like many of you we didn’t go abroad but the fun we had here in the UK was unparalleled. We camped and glamped with friends, went to live music events, a trip to the theatre and were lucky enough to be bridesmaids at a very beautiful wedding (see page 78). We spent time in our own back garden and in and around Preston and the Fylde coast, enjoying what we have on our doorstep. It really felt that life was ‘normal’ again and we had a blast. The girls are back at school now and I hope that your children have transitioned back well. Its understandable if they have been feeling a little anxious, its been a difficult and disruptive couple of academic years for them. There are some tips on page 92 which may help if your child is suffering with back to school anxiety. Fingers crossed this year will be plain sailing for our children and they have a ‘real school’ experience. I hope this September you get chance to take stock of your own life and get the chance to ‘check-in’ with your own mental health. The theme of this issue, 101 is well being; and there are lots of features to support you if you are struggling emotionally, wanting to cut down on alcohol, or really want to make the end of 2021 your best year ever. There is also a feature about getting out in nature and taking up wildlife photography. The cover image was taken by Shane Davis as he enjoyed an evening stroll through Winckley Square, Preston. It was taken with film, rather than digital. I personally feel that this gives the image a magical quality. Enjoy the read. Best Helen Helen Sanderson Editor

YOUR PREMIER GUIDE

TO LUXURY LIVING • ISSUE 101

LANCASHIRE’S PREMIER GUIDE TO LUXURY LIVING I S S U E 12 7

issue

Live Preston & Fylde ENGLAND’S WEDDING HEAVEN ROMANCE IN THE RIBBLE VALLEY PARTY PLANNER TO THE STARS JULIE PERRY UK’S THIRTY UNDER THIRTY TOP AWARD FOR HEAD CHEF DANNY YOUNG FELL RUNNING LEGEND SHAUN LIVESEY

Part of the Live Magazines portfolio, including Live Ribble Valley

Photographer: Shane Davis Shot on location in Winckley Square, Preston Image taken on film

LANCASHIRE WOMEN THE CHARITY THAT’S SUPPORTING LOCAL PROFESSIONAL WOMEN WITH THE TOLL OF COVID IT’S TIME TO SHOW UP, WISE UP AND RISE UP MEET THE QUEEN BEE GO ON A LOCAL SAFARI TAKE UP BIRDING

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Monochrome Style When Gary and Caroline extended their Oldham home, they chose Kitchen Design Centre to create a timeless black and white kitchen that perfectly suited their period house. They initially contacted three kitchen companies but weren’t keen on any of their designs. As soon as they met designer Paul Harrington at kitchen Design Centre’s Manchester Failsworth showroom they knew they’d found the right company. Paul immediately impressed with his ideas and the fact that he grasped exactly what they wanted. The showroom gave them lots of inspiration, and they chose the units from a kitchen that was on display. The wide choice of displays on show impressed them and they were delighted and reassured with the amazing visual that Paul created of the finished design, especially because he’d worked from architect’s plans.

Designer Paul Harrington says,

Caroline and Gary say, “we were delighted with Kitchen Design Centre from Paul right down to the fitters. Paul understood exactly what we were looking for and created a fantastic design. Our builders were behind at one stage but Kitchen Design Centre were really understanding, rearranging their schedule to fit us in and ensuring the installation ran smoothly.”

“This classic combination of black and white offers striking contrast and effortless style, working perfectly in Gary and Caroline’s home. It was great to work with them and create this stunning space.”

To read more about how we designed this kitchen and to view the video tour of it visit: www.kitchendesigncentre.com

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SUPPORTING LANCASHIRE WOMEN WITH THE STRAINS OF THE PANDEMIC As the UK try’s to get back to normal after 18-months of intermittent lockdowns and social restrictions the emotional impact of Covid-19 is being realised. Research would imply that it was working class women that were hardest hit mentally and emotionally by the pandemic

n the main, it was the working-class women who carried the burden of the extra physical and emotional labour being generated by the Covid-19 pandemic. These women care for children, sick and frail elderly, clean buildings, cook and serve food, administer institutions

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and staff shops, while retaining the major responsibility for care in the home. The pandemic created job loss, work instability, financial hardship and great insecurity. Working class women were heavily impacted. There has been time squeeze and work intensification for some, a desperate search for new jobs for others, alongside more unpaid care with school and nursery closures. A 12-month project, funded by the Economic and Social Research Council, as part of UK Research and Innovation’s rapid response to Covid-19, was conducted in collaboration with the UK Women’s Budget Group, the leading independent organisation that deals with the impact of policy on women’s lives. Dr Susan Barber who led the research explained: “We analysed data from ‘Understanding Society’ (the UK Household Longitudinal Study), including vital new information gathered monthly from April 2020 on the impact of Covid-19. Our

study was released this summer and exposed the deep gender and class inequalities that, together, impact the women’s working lives. Pandemic pressures resulted in further job and financial insecurity, heavier care responsibilities, and real challenges for women in managing unpaid and paid work.”

PANDEMIC PRESSURES RESULTED IN FURTHER JOB AND FINANCIAL INSECURITY, HEAVIER CARE RESPONSIBILITIES, AND REAL CHALLENGES FOR WOMEN Female keyworkers disproportionately work in frontline customer- and patientfacing jobs, bringing a greater exposure to health risks at work. Very few workingclass women were working from home during the pandemic. Employed women also found that they were doing much more housework, more childcare and

more home-schooling than men during the pandemic, and women’s share of housework and childcare grew after the pandemic hit. Dr Susan explained: “We didn’t need the research to tell us as we could all see it across our family’s and friends that it was mothers who were far more likely than fathers to have main responsibility for childcare and home-schooling. Working class women were the women least likely to reduce their hours in work or change their work schedules because of the time they were spending on childcare or home-schooling.” Working-class women fared poorly in terms of access to good quality flexible working arrangements more generally. They also had the lowest wages of all workers and those living with another adult earner had the lowest household earnings of all groups. “Interestingly enough it was working men who reported lower levels of life

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satisfaction before the pandemic,” explained Dr Susan, “but, as the pandemic progressed, levels of life satisfaction among employed women decreased, taking them below men’s. Levels of life satisfaction among women and men rose and fell according to lockdown, with figures for January 2021 the lowest for both groups of worker. Working class women reported some of the lowest levels of life satisfaction in early 2021.”

WORKING CLASS WOMEN REPORTED SOME OF THE LOWEST LEVELS OF LIFE SATISFACTION IN EARLY 2021 What our research has found is that the pandemic shone a light on the inadequacy of our current safety net – public services like social care and childcare, and benefits like Universal Credit and Statutory Sick Pay, were not ready to meet the needs of many. The government needs to match their ‘key worker’ rhetoric with proper recognition in the form of living wages, living hours and decent working conditions and security, and ensure that working class women are not forgotten in the economic recovery plan.” Since the beginning of the pandemic there has been an increase in the calls to organisations like the Lancashire Women. Lancashire Women is a charity working towards a Lancashire where all women are valued and treated as equals, and are empowered to be able to transform their lives. CEO of Lancashire Women, Amanda Greenwood said: “The results of this research are concerning. For many working women, the pandemic is upending their work/life balance and affecting their physical and mental health, and some are even questioning their current and long-term career prospects. Some have cited working longer hours because of the pandemic and others have been

juggling extra caregiving duties as a result of pandemic-related consequences (i.e: school closures, caring for relatives) whilst also working full-time.”

WE AIM TO BRING WOMEN TOGETHER TO SHARE EXPERIENCES AND UNDERSTANDING, WHILST HELPING WOMEN TO FIND THEIR VOICE Women now more than ever need support. Lancashire Women offers support to all women in Lancashire. Whether you need support regarding employment, financial, well-being or justice and safety Lancashire Women provide services in a safe and non-judgemental female only space. Whatever your needs, you can contact the charity and speak to a member of the team to find out how they can help you. Amanda concluded: “Women are being

stretched and challenged more than ever. We are here to support all Lancashire Women. We aim to bring women together to share experiences and understanding, develop skills and knowledge, challenge stereotypes and misconceptions whilst helping women to find their voice. If you have struggled with the pressures of the pandemic, please reach out to us. We know it can be daunting to get the help you need or know where to start. Please feel free to contact our team. They are friendly and approachable, highly confidential and they will work with you to identify what are issues and concerns that are important for you. There is no need to do this alone so please contact us – we are there for you – wherever you are across Lancashire.” n

To find out more go to: lancashirewomen.org or telephone 0300 330 1345

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LIVE AN INTENTIONAL LIFE

Helen Sanderson chatted to the woman who has made it her mission in life to help people create intentional lives

aura Pearson is a life coach who works with individuals who want to declutter their homes and lives to make room to live more freely. Laura explained: “I help women to come back to themselves, get clear about what they want, and let go of clutter, so that they can create intentional lives, minds and homes. I take women from feeling unfulfilled, lost, stuck and burnt out, to being clear, fulfilled, confident, purposeful and excited about their lives.” When Laura graduated in 2015 she took a respected, graduate position. It was then she began to realise the idea of a ‘successful

career’ of long hours, fast pace and highly competitive were not aligned with her personal ideals. She watched a documentary on Netflix called Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things. “Minimalism had a profound effect on my life”, said Laura. “It documents people who have dedicated their lives to rejecting the American ideal that ‘things’ bring happiness and the virtues of how less is more.”

I HELP WOMEN TO COME BACK TO THEMSELVES, GET CLEAR ABOUT WHAT THEY WANT, AND LET GO OF CLUTTER Laura has since trained in personal coaching focusing on how to help people break the attachment to things. She takes people through a process, which is often emotional, looking at their home or workspace and understanding what’s important and adds real value to their life. “Many people like to hold onto sentimental things and that’s fine, but if they are keeping it because they feel they have to then it could be holding them back. I help people part with things that have no use or value to them and we part with them in a way that feels right for the individual, from gifting, recycling, selling or throwing in the bin. I take women from having cluttered, disorganised spaces that they feel stressed and embarrassed about, to creating calm, organised spaces that they can relax in, enjoy and be proud of.” Laura offers a 1:1 Coaching Programme which enables individuals to become clear about what they really want whilst transforming their mind-set and energy. She also offers a Decluttering & Organising package where she helps you to confidently let go of clutter in a calming and nonjudgemental approach. n

Laura Pearson COACHING AND DECLUTTERING

DECLUTTERING AND ORGANISING SERVICES Do you want to declutter and organise your home or workspace? Do you need help with simplifying and tidying? Do you want to create a space you can enjoy and relax in?

COACHING SERVICES Do you want personalised support to help you get clear on your goals, transform your mindset and take aligned action to start creating and living the life you want?

My 1:1 Coaching Programme: Intentional is available over 6 or 12 weeks. My Decluttering and Organisation Packages are available both virtually and in-person.

Download your free guide - 5 Steps to Start Decluttering your Life at: www.laurapearsoncoaching.com/5-steps-to-start-decluttering-freebie

GET IN TOUCH Email laura@laurapearsoncoaching.com to book your free Connection Call and choose your programme. W: www.laurapearsoncoaching.com E: laura@laurapearsoncoaching.com @laurapearsoncoaching LauraPearsonCoachingandDecluttering

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• UPVC WINDOWS • ALUMINIUM WINDOWS • ENTRANCE DOORS • PATIO DOORS • ROOFLINE • CONSERVATORIES & ORANGERIES & MUCH MUCH MORE Lee Kelly UPVC Ltd 364 Blackpool Road, Fulwood, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 3AA Call: 01772 788550 Visit: www.leekellyUPVC.com

LOVE COMING HOME TO YOUR PAD Kate Bowyer chats to Paula Baxter, owner of acclaimed interior design company PAD Contemporary Living, based in Poultonle-Fylde. Photography: Roger Moore

aula is as passionate about helping people “fall in love with their home all over again” as she was when she established her clientcentred business 14 years ago. Her skill in turning homes into sanctuaries has become indispensable following a year which left many of us staring at our own four walls more than we ever imagined. It’s a long way from Paula’s first job at Top Man. Demonstrating an eye for detail and design, Paula realised she loved putting outfits together and helping customers look their best! After progressing up the retail ladder, she became a Trainer Assessor, helping young people in the industry achieve qualifications, and this enabled her spend more time with her young son Cameron. But after a moving into a new home, she realised she couldn’t find any decent furniture showrooms in the area without a high price tag and she’d always loved style and contemporary design. So that’s where the Pad story begins

opening her first showroom 14 years ago. Business quickly took off through word of mouth from happy customers. The trajectory has continued ever since, thanks to Paula’s “one size doesn’t fit all” ethos. She told me: “The showroom is a resource for guidance and inspiration.

From there, it’s all based around the customer: their tastes, needs, lifestyle, budget – even hobbies and passions.”

IT’S ALL BASED AROUND THE CUSTOMER: THEIR TASTES, NEEDS, LIFESTYLE, BUDGET – EVEN HOBBIES AND PASSIONS From one-room makeovers on a budget to multi-million pound mansions, her approach clearly works.

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In the early days, Paula juggled doing everything with being a mother to her seven-year-old son: “Cameron literally grew up with the showroom as his playroom. Picking him up from school in the delivery van, he played with his toys in clients’ homes while I built their furniture! “As he grew, he started helping out on deliveries and now even assists our joiners on projects. He is following his own path later this year, going to Colorado State University working towards his degree in Computer Science. Returning customers still ask after him, so it won’t just be me who misses him when he is overseas!” Paula has retained the personal touch and really is the face of Pad. “When you come in, you get me, one-on-one, and that’s how I love it. Or perhaps I’m just not good at delegating! “I use mood, colour and ideas boards collaboratively with clients, but the decisions are all theirs,” she explains. “Why would I want to impose my taste on anyone? That’s no fun! I bring a fresh eye, experience and connections. Once the customer is decided, I source, supply and fit bespoke commissions. It means I never do the same room or ‘look’ twice, it’s individual and it keeps me fresh and inspired too.” Paula is renowned for not doing ‘sales’, but always offering the best prices. “People come in and see quality European furniture including Calligaris dining sets, beautiful Nicoletti Italian sofas, Omexco fine Belgian wall coverings, and Nolte’s clever, sleek German-designed wardrobes,

and assume it’s expensive- then are thrilled at how affordable it can be! I also source British fabric sofas at very affordable prices.”

YOU HAVE TO STAY TRUE TO YOURSELF, NOT PASSING TRENDS OR FADS, THEN YOUR HOME CAN BECOME A PLACE OF REST AND RELAXATION From first-time buyers to serial mover or room changer, Paula doesn’t have a typical customer or budget. She explains: “Aspirational is all very well, but who are you aspiring to be? You have to stay true to yourself, not passing trends or fads, then your home can become a place of rest and relaxation; somewhere to recharge, to love coming back to. I say: pick out an object or picture you absolutely love, and that’s your style. Then, together we’ll create the look around that one piece, around you and around what you love. It’s a revelation to them, I love seeing their shoulders relax and their smile appear.”

Never more so than in our ‘new normal’. What’s Paula’s thoughts now homes have become so much more: office, refuge, school, and technological hub? “Homes definitely have to work harder. Since Covid people realise what’s important having spent so much time in their homes, I’m finding more and more people want their home to work better for them. For example, adding a home office without losing the open-plan living they love. We can do great things with flexible sectioning- from practical bookshelves to amazing screens which are focal artworks in their own right.” So, why PAD? It stands for Paula And Design and for someone with such clear passion for her business, I’d say that captures it perfectly. I leave Paula with my head full of inspiration to make my home that little bit more lovable. I ask her for a top tip. She says: “Be careful with all-grey, it’s not for everyone. Be brave and break it up with splashes of strong colours, which add warmth and a pop of colour, while keeping it contemporary.” Now there’s an idea… n

PAD Contemporary Living Ltd Unit 4 Millennium Court Furness Drive Poulton-le-Fylde FY6 8JS 01253 893334 paula@padcl.co.uk padcl.co.uk

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homesinsideout of the home featuring upcycled household objects including an old roll top bath transformed into a water feature. Nods to Lancashire run throughout the garden with Accrington brick forming a path and, of course, red roses. Bees are encouraged into the garden through the wildlife friendly planting and bee houses.

FOR A LANCASHIRE LASS TO HAVE THE EXPERIENCE OF DESIGNING AND CREATING A GARDEN AT RHS TATTON PARK HAS BEEN A DREAM COME TRUE

WINNING DESIGNS Following the cancellation of last year’s RHS show at Tatton Park, this year saw three winning designs brought to life by amateur gardeners from the North West. Photography: RHS_Charlotte Graham

ver the summer, three amateur designers won a competition run by the BBC and the Royal Horticultural Society which saw their garden designs come to life at RHS Flower Show Tatton Park. The winning designs grabbed the judge’s attention thanks to their creativity and originality and beat hundreds of entries in the competition that challenged entrants to submit a design for a City Garden. The winning gardens designed by Dawn Evans, Sue Burke and Denise Reddin were created with the help of award winning designer Lee Bestall to be enjoyed by the thousands of visitors at RHS Flower Show. The Windrush Garden by Manchester winner Dawn Evans has also been chosen by RHS Garden Bridgewater curator Marcus Chilton-Jones to feature permanently at the society’s newest garden in Salford. Dawn was inspired by her parents’ Jamaican heritage, their generations’ journey to the

Denise said: “For a Lancashire lass to have the experience of designing and creating a garden at RHS Tatton Park has been a dream come true and working with expert garden designer Lee Bestall has been fantastic.”

UK and the unwelcoming climate they inherited in their new country. The garden is a little piece of Jamaican paradise with exotic planting including hostas, blousy canna lilies and giant palms.

Dawn said: “I hope the garden will show people just what can be done in just a small space.” Denise from Oswaldtwistle, was the winning Lancashire designer – her garden Bee Happy in the City is a relaxing, fun city garden for a young couple or family where the garden has become an extension

Merseyside winner Sue Burke was inspired by The Beatles. Her garden My City – Our Music features a green lawn in the shape of a guitar representing the music of the Merseybeat with planting colours taking inspiration from four famous Beatle Album covers – The White Album represented by a white border, Sergeant Pepper and Yellow Submarine inspired the more zingy colours and the black and white paving a nod to the famous Abbey Road album cover. Sue said: “It’s been an incredible experience and I have thoroughly enjoyed the creative process and working alongside Denise and Dawn.” n

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PERFECT STRIPES SINCE 1970 The Hayter Harrier® lawnmower – 50 years at the top of it’s game. The Hayter Harrier® rear roller lawnmower now features industry leading Crank-Safe Blade Brake Clutch system† and optional electric start, combined with exquisite striping ability and perfectly matched petrol power engines. Groovy in the 70s, even more capable today... Because a perfectly striped lawn will never go out of style. Find out more at your nearest Hayter dealer.

Mowerpower Ltd

Unit A Tom Horns Yard Garstang Road (A6) Claughton-on-Brock Models shown are the original 1970s Harrier® and the latest Hayter Harrier® 41 (CODE 375A) with electric start Briggs & Stratton® engine, self-propelled autodrive transmission, aluminium cutter deck and a 5 year warranty*. *Applies to original purchaser, for residential use, annual service required.

Creative lighting for your home & business Showroom by appointment only Showroom address: 13 Cable Court, Pittman Way, Fulwood, Preston PR2 9YW www.kok.lighting james@kok.lighting 01772 977 677 07540 372 615

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STYLISH TRENDS Amtico’s French Weave Flooring £70 per square meter From a foundation of parquetry, Amtico have adapted classic wood floor geometry for modern day use. French Weave is a crafted, woven pattern with the strength and balance for larger spaces. Gainsborough Flooring 26 Heatley Street Preston PR1 2XB 01772 250682 gainsboroughflooring.co.uk

Young Sweet Love by Hayley Goodhead, Limited Edition Print, Giclee on Box Canvas £595 Hepplestone Fine Art Heskin Hall Shopping Village Wood Land Heskin PR7 5PA

Fox Trot by Calia Italia handmade modular sofas from £650 The linear and angular elements, chaise-longue and footstool allow you to create the perfect composition for your desires and comfort experience. Choose from a variety of different colours and fabric options. PAD Contemporary Living Poulton Business Park 4 Millenium Court Furness Drive Poulton le Fylde FY6 8JS 01253 893334 padcl.co.uk

Rocks wall light £309.12, Rocks hanging light £1660.44 With its sharp-edged and purist design the Rocks range from Grossmann is the essence of German simplicity but at the same time striking feature lighting design. Available in wall light, flush or pendant versions and a choice of aluminium or matt black. James Kok Lighting 13 Cable Court Pittman Way Fulwood PR2 9YW By appointment only 01772 977677 www.kok.lighting

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ADD LUXE APPEAL From lockdowns and homeschooling to self-isolating and working from home, our houses are more lived in than they’ve ever been before

owadays, inspiration for home design is only a screen tap away. Our social media feeds are filled with images of masterfully styled celebrity interiors and luxurious home renovations. Unfortunately, we don’t all have the budget for a professional home makeover or show home pad but with a bit of creativity and a few tricks of the trade, you can easily add that enviable luxe appeal to your own home. In this blog, we are sharing a few ways in which you can elevate your interiors and achieve a high end look without breaking the bank.

A FINER FINISH

Our kitchens take a bit of a battering over the years and it’s often not long before a brand-new kitchen begins to look worn and outdated. A full kitchen refit is a considerable expense and can cause a great deal of upheaval, which you may not need right

now. If your kitchen units are looking tired and are in need of a facelift, consider painting them before you fork out thousands for new ones. Farrow & Ball do some beautiful eggshell paint shades which are perfect for giving an overworked family kitchen a whole new lease of life. Opt for Hardwick White for timeless country kitchen vibes or something like Paean Black for a luxurious and elegant finish.

CHANNEL THE PANELS

Often associated with stately homes and opulent country retreats, wall panelling has been used for centuries in the UK. This year, however, it has made a huge comeback and is being adopted by A-listers across the globe and some of Instagram’s biggest home and interiors influencers. This easy-to-achieve look is surprisingly versatile but oozes elegance and sophistication.

D E S I G N E D TO PERFECTION From planning to completion be assured you’re in safe hands.

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Photography: johnwilmaninteriors.co.uk

Firstly, a selection of lighting options will allow the mood to be set and changed as and when required. Good lighting is key to creating the right ambience and a minimum of three different light sources is suggested. Secondly, think about soft furnishings. Luxury isn’t just about colour, it’s also about texture. A deep-pile statement rug will not only look stylish but will offer an element of luxurious comfort. Metallic accessories will instantly add glamour and a gallery wall of art prints or monochrome photos will add interest to a blank space.

Go natural with just a lick of varnish or opt for a more dramatic look by painting panelling in a dark shade such as black or navy. Floor-to-ceiling panelling is great for adding texture to a larger room, or it can be used on just the bottom half of the wall to complement luxury wallpaper.

CLEAR THE CLUTTER

DESIGNER MINDSET

In order to create a room that looks like it has been expertly styled by an interior designer, you need to think like an interior designer. Those at the top of their trade know that texture and colour are the keys to creating an uber-stylish abode. If you’re not confident in your eye for design, then adopt the 60-30-10 rule. This classic décor rule means that a dominant colour accounts for 60 per cent of the space, a secondary colour or texture takes 30 per cent and the

remaining 10 per cent should be reserved for an accent colour or texture. For example, if your dominant colour is pink and you choose it for your walls, complement it with another colour for furniture and furnishings, then use the remaining 10 per cent to accessorize with textures such as mixed metals or botanicals.

Photography: johnwilmaninteriors.co.uk

ALL IN THE DETAILS

Sometimes it’s the little things which make the biggest impact, so pay attention to the finer details when designing your luxe interior.You don’t need to have the most expensive silk wallpaper on your walls and an abundance of designer furniture to give your room a luxe look. A stylish and elegant result can be achieved through the finishing touches. So, if you’re going to invest in just one aspect of your new interior, make sure it’s the detail.

Those dream homes in glossy magazines and on social media may vary in style and design but they all have one thing in common – they’re tidy! Cluttered surfaces and messy corners are a big no-no when it comes to creating a luxurious space. Keep lines clean and clutter to a minimum by ensuring you have enough storage space for belongings. Installing fitted furniture is by far the best solution for a room that needs both visual appeal and a high level of functionality. Opt for sleek, minimalist designs with a range of savvy storage solutions for optimal function and maximum style. At Hartleys we like to create furniture solutions which combine form and function. Effective bespoke storage will ensure that all belongings have a place, and hence, clutter is less likely to rebuild. Fitted furniture offers the intrinsic benefit of being streamlined, as it is specifically designed for a particular space. Both these elements will help create a luxury feel to your home. n

If you’d like to find out more, please contact us on 01756 700471, see us online at: hartleysbedroom

Importers and stockists of exceptional tiles and stone

(A6) Garstang Road Brock Nr Preston Lancashire PR3 0RD 01995 643455 www.rockform.co.uk

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THE START OF AUTUMN Summer is drawing to a close and autumn is just around the corner – what a perfect time to think about planting when the soil is warm and the rain will get plants established

the garden. They thrive well in drained, fertile soil that retains moisture and prefer full sun or partial shade.

eptember is a good time to take stock of your garden and think about any changes or plans you want to make. Keeping colour in borders for as long as possible is top of the ‘to do’ list for September, so you may like to consider incorporating late summer or autumn flowering plants such the aster. The name aster comes from the ancient Greek word for ‘star’, although they are often referred to as michaelmas daisies because of their typical flowering period in the autumn. Asters come in blue, purple, red, pink and white each with a yellow centre. There are numerous varieties of aster, from dwarfs that measure less than a foot to tall versions that can reach up to eight feet. All varieties make for good cut flowers and are easy plants for beginners to try in

It’s also the time of year that nurseries and garden centres have great offers on big bags of mixed daffodil bulbs, in all shapes and sizes. They can grow pretty much anywhere, even through the lawn. The easiest way to work out how deep to plant your bulb is to dig down approximately three times the depth of the bulb – but be warned, if you plant daffodils too close to the surface they often won’t flower. You can plant daffodils and crocuses from September to October – as many as you can get into the ground or in containers. Once planted you need do nothing else to them other than wait for a stunning show

in the spring. If you’re planting in lawns, cut out three sides of a square and lift back the turf, put in a few bulbs and then firm the turf back again. As it’s bulb season, you could also plant hyacinth bulbs in pots, by mid-september, so that you have a glorious Christmas display – creating a scented centrepiece or gift for gardening friends and family. Once the hyacinths are planted in a pot, put in a dark cool place (a garage or shed) for 10-12 weeks and then bring out into the light so flowering can start. n

THINGS TO DO IN SEPTEMBER: September is when autumn begins to creep into your garden, but that doesn’t mean it’s time to let it all go to seed – jobs for this month suggested by the Royal Horticultural Society include: • Look after your lawn – weed it and seed it • Pick and harvest summer fruits • Bring tender houseplants inside • Continue to sow vegetables • Clear out the greenhouse • Collect and sow seeds gathered from plants in the garden • Plant spring flowering bulbs

FIND US ON… Live Ribble Valley @Live_RV /liveribblevalley Live Preston & Fylde @Live_PF /liveprestonfylde issuu.com/live_magazines

If you or someone you know has cancer, you may find it helpful to talk to someone If youunderstands or someonewhat you know cancer, who you’rehas going through. you maywho findcan it helpful to personal talk to someone A team provide support who understands what you’re and expert information. That’sgoing what through. we do. A team who can provide personal support So you have any questions about andif expert information. That’s whatyour we do. treatment, concerns about your finances So if you have any questions about your or just want to talk, you don’t need to go treatment, concerns about your nances through it alone. We’re here for fiyou. or just want to talk, you don’t need to go through alone. We’re here forLine you.free on Call theitMacmillan Support

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Printed using sustainable material. Please recycle. Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). MAC13954_A4_0613. Printed using sustainable material. Please recycle. Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). MAC13954_A4_0613.

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Beautiful designs and affordable prices KITCHENS AND BEDROOMS

REDSCAR KITCHENS (PRESTON) LTD A23 Red Scar Business Park (off Longridge Road) Preston Lancashire PR2 5NE 01772 700012 | jlholderness@outlook.com | redscarkitchens.com

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A MAN WHO KNOWS WHAT HE WANTS! When Salim popped into Gainsborough Flooring looking for some ideas, he hadn’t anticipated falling in love with Amtico Signature Basket Weave. The instant he saw it, he knew it was perfect for his home, writes Meena McDonald

hen he visited Gainsborough Flooring Salim was in the middle of an extensive refurbishment project led by inspirational interior designer Nita Patel from Petal Interiors, incorporating a double extension, along with the renovation of a kitchen area. Salim selected Amtico’s stunning Basket Weave in Sanctuary Grain with a 3mm gold design strip as recommended by Nita, which ran throughout the whole ground floor including the hallway, living areas, kitchen and dining room. Basket Weave has the beauty of directional grains which shine through in single-coloured woods and become the focal point of any room. On a site visit to view and measure the flooring space, Vicky Brown from Gainsborough Flooring advised that an expert should take a look at the area as there was excessive movement in the subfloor. GFC in conjunction with FBalls came up with a solution and screed with stopgap 700 and primer was applied to the area before the Amtico was installed.

Salim commented: “The best thing about working with Gainsborough Flooring is their knowledge and expertise. They don’t cut any corners and I was impressed when Vicky insisted I take expert advice to ensure the floor was prepared to the highest standard as she knew it wouldn’t work otherwise. “Of course she was right and the floor would never have looked as incredible as it does if it hadn’t been properly prepared. Since the installation, numerous colleagues have visited the house and it’s the first thing they comment on. They all love the flooring!” The stairs and landing were fitted out with Alternative Flooring’s cool and contemporary

Luxx Sheer Narwhal. With its tip-shear finish, it adds elegance and texture to any space. Luxx Sheer Narwhal black jet rugs were also added to complement the areas in the lounge and dining room. For his son’s bedroom, Salim selected Westex Silken Velvet Chic in Smoulder ensuring unrivalled luxury, irresistible comfort and a lustrous appearance for the room. Salim added: “We’re absolutely thrilled with the flooring and adore the new areas we have created. The installation team from Gainsborough was fantastic and their attention to detail and efficiency was amazing, especially as they had to work around numerous other tradespeople who were onsite at the time too.” As far as Salim is concerned he’ll certainly be working with Vicky and her team for any future flooring projects: “I love working with local businesses, especially family owned ones where there is so much passion, knowledge and expertise. I’ve already recommended Gainsborough to relatives who have purchased new flooring from them.” n Interior design by Petal Interiors

01772 250 682 gainsboroughflooring.co.uk Gainsborough Flooring 26 Heatley Street Preston PR1 2XB

Opening times: Mon - Fri 8.00am - 5.00pm Sat 9.00am - 4.00pm

Why Mike never Why Mike Why Mike never never mows his lawn… mows his mows his lawn… lawn… With Mike Bennnets 60th fast approaching, Barbara With Mike Bennet's 60th fast approaching, Barbara With Mike Bennnets fastthat approaching, Barbara his wife decided on a60th present ticked all the boxes. his wife decided on a present that ticked all the boxes. his wife decided on a present that ticked all the boxes. An Ambrogio L35 deluxe Robot mower. An Ambrogio L35 deluxe Robot mower. An Ambrogio L35 deluxe Robot mower. With almost an acre of continually evolving garden to maintain With almost an acre of continually evolving garden to maintain anything thatan would the garden whilst also to freeing up their With almost acre improve of continually evolving garden maintain anything that would improve the garden whilst also freeing up their time was that a nowould brainer, especially when you happen live next door anything improve the garden whilst also to freeing up their time was a no brainer, especially when you happen to live next door to thewas AutoMowIt demonstration garden! time a no brainer, especially when you happen to live next door to the AutoMowIt demonstration garden! to the AutoMowIt demonstration garden! We still spend most We still spend most weekends gardening We still spend most but Mike weekends gardening but Mike is able to help me with other weekends gardening but Mike is able to help me with other things instead of simply is able now to help me with other things now instead of simply mowing andinstead taking of mountains things now simply mowing and taking mountains of grass clippings to the tip. mowing and taking mountains of grass clippings to the tip. of grass clippings to the tip. Having a robot to take care of Having a robot to take care of the mowing hastohad a much Having a robot take care of the mowing has had a much greater knock onhad effect on the mowing has a much greater knock on effect on how the garden looks than greater knock on effect on just how the garden looks than just improving the condition of the how the garden looks than just improving the condition of the lawn - passers by regularly improving the condition of the lawn - passers by regularly compliment us,byand although lawn - passers regularly compliment us, and although we do work hard in it we are compliment us, and although we do work hard in it we are free towork do ashard much as little we do in or it we are free to do as much or as little as wetowant weorwant. free do aswhen much as little as we want when we want. as we want when we want. Mike works very hard so Mike works very hard so having the freedom to so go and Mike works very hard having the freedom to go and enjoy golffreedom weekendtoor on havingathe gogo and enjoy a golf weekend or go on a fortnights holiday without enjoy a golf weekend or go on a fortnights holiday without worrying about the garden a fortnights holiday without worrying about the garden getting out of control is worrying about the garden getting out of control is so liberating. getting out of control is so liberating. so liberating. Tyler, AutoMowIt’s lawn and Tyler, AutoMowIt’s lawn and robot expert is fantastic, Tyler, AutoMowIt’s lawn and robot expert is fantastic, but then we have to say that robot expert is fantastic, but then we have to say that because our neighbour but then he’s we have to say that because he’s our neighbour - seriously though if you’re because he’s our neighbour - seriously though if you’re about getting a robot -thinking seriously though if you’re thinking about getting a robot don’t hesitate and if you’re thinking about getting a robot don’t hesitate and if you’re visiting the AutoMowIt demo don’t hesitate and if you’re visiting the AutoMowIt demo garden feel free to nip over visiting the AutoMowIt demothe garden feel free to nip over the fence and mine. garden feelhave freeatolook nip at over the fence and have a look at mine. fence and have a look at mine.

The easier way The easier way The easier way to a perfect lawn to a perfect to a perfect lawn lawn • Advice, supply, install • Advice, supply, install and maintenance • Advice, supply, install and maintenance maintenance • and Authorised distributors • Authorised distributors for Ambrogio • for Authorised distributors Ambrogio • for FreeAmbrogio remote lawn • Free remote lawn analysis and quote • analysis Free remote lawn and quote analysis and quote

Talk to Tyler today… Talk to Tyler Talk to Tyler today… today… Call 0800 15 22 123 Call 0800 15 22 123 Visit www.automowit.co.uk Call 0800 15 22 123 Visit www.automowit.co.uk Find us on Facebook @automowit Visit www.automowit.co.uk Find us on Facebook @automowit Find us on Facebook @automowit

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WE HAVE IT COVERED From seagrass to super-soft velvet, traditional solid wood to ultra-luxurious vinyl, Touchwood Flooring has it all! Photography: Kirsten Platt

estament to their many years’ experience supplying and fitting first-class flooring, Belinda Tolenaar and business partner Daniel Hodson have expanded the respected Touchwood Flooring Company, moving into a beautifully presented studio in Berry Lane, Longridge. Specialising in flooring of all types – including Karndean Design Flooring, real wood, laminates, luxury vinyl and sumptuous carpets, the move to their new showroom has enabled Touchwood to offer their growing number of customers even more choice. Keen to deal with local manufactures such as Cormar and Cavalier, Touchwood Flooring also stocks Brockway, a company which uses locally-sourced wool from rare-breed sheep in the Lake District. The spectacular collection, curated personally by Belinda, also includes wool

and silk carpet made in India, sisal and seagrass and super-soft velvet carpet. “At Touchwood we like to help customers visualise their new floor – sometimes being taken out of their comfort zone to explore all options,” explains Belinda, who has a keen eye for detail. “We will also advise on installation and

any sub-floor preparation requirements – our in-house team are fully certified and experienced in all aspects of flooring installation.”

FROM QUIRKY TO CLASSIC, THIS FLOORING COMPANY WILL CERTAINLY ADD A TOUCH OF LUXURIOUS STYLE TO YOUR HOME From quirky to classic, this flooring company will certainly add a touch of luxurious style to your home. Call in to meet Belinda and her team at the welcoming new showroom, where there are numerous displays and samples to view. n

Touchwood Flooring have the only Karndean Select showroom in the North West of England

Touchwood Flooring 18-20 Berry Lane, Longridge PR3 3JA 01772 378300

JOULES MENS LYNDHURST SHIRT £49.95 kenvarey.co.uk

JOULES LADIES SNUG GILET £54.95 kenvarey.co.uk

JOULES MENS GO TO GILET DARK RED £54.95 kenvarey.co.uk

BARBOUR MOORLAND SHIRT CLOUD CHECK £59.95 Varey’s Town and Country 2 Market Place Clitheroe BB7 2DB 01200 423267 kenvarey.co.uk

NEW SEASON COUNTRY CASUALS

B.INTL EVENT SWEAT £69.95 barbourInternational.com

As autumn approaches these hard-working accessories will take you seamlessly into the new season WHITE STUFF AYLA BORG POPOVER JACKET IVORY £80 whitestuff.com

OLIVER BONAS ZIP THROUGH NAVY WASHED SWEAT DRESS £55 oliverbonas.com

BARBOUR MILBURN BOOTS £125 barbour.com

While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, all prices and stockists are subject to change.

BARBOUR NELSON BOOTS £125 kenvarey.co.uk

COLOUR BLOCK SCARF CANDY/ICE £30 shop.nationaltrust.org.uk JOULES LADIES SEAFORD JUMPER NAVY £49.95 kenvarey.co.uk

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fashion

TAILORED JUST FOR YOU… Since 1995 Nigel Clare has dominated Lancashire’s distinguished fashion market for men with an extensive range of formal and casual wear in his high street shops in Chorley. Photography: Robin Lyndon completed with our range of ties and shoes.” Nigel has an exceptional team of committed staff who understand their brands and customers. With a very loyal customer base, where 80 per cent of sales come through the high street shop, the team know which styles and brands will be perfect for their customers and can guide them to find clothing that is ideal for them.

tocking some of the finest fashion brands such as Paul Smith, Armani, Vivienne Westwood, Jacob Cohen and Hugo Boss, plus latest additions from Neil Barrett and Dsquared2, Nigel Clare attracts loyal customers with an eye for fashion. The formal wear market has rapidly expanded over the past few years and despite Covid the wedding market is on the rise again.

pandemic, undoubtedly customers of Nigel Clare enjoy visiting the shop where they know they will be presented with a knowledgeable and helpful team. Nigel is truly optimistic about the future of his high street shops. With Chorley town centre being revitalised with significant investment in shops, restaurants and car parking, it is proving an attractive place to visit as well as shop. So, whether you’re 18 or in your 60s, if you want a formal outfit for a wedding or party or you’re looking for a smart-casual look for a night out, Nigel Clare really will be able to source the perfect outfit to suit the occasion.

MEN ARE LOVING THE FITTED STYLE THREE-PIECE SUITS WHICH CAN BE TAILORED IN-HOUSE, AS WELL AS THE ETON MADE-TO-MEASURE SHIRTS

Nigel comments: “The wedding market really is ready to explode. As restrictions draw to an end, we are witnessing many purchases for weddings. Men are loving the fitted style three-piece suits which can be tailored in-house by our expert team, as well as the Eton made-to-measure shirts, which really are a must have. Outfits can be

As social gatherings increase, people are aiming to look their best whether they are out for lunch with a casual polo shirt and jeans, or for a day at the races with a smart shirt and tailored trousers. The blazer and shirt combined with denim jeans is also certainly proving extremely popular at the moment. Customers travel to Nigel Clare from all over Lancashire with a large proportion from the Ribble Valley. The attraction is a combination of outstanding personal customer service and a substantial range of products stocked in the shops. Though the website came into its own during the height of the

Why not visit Nigel Clare on Chorley High Street and see for yourself? We are convinced you will be impressed. n You can view the brands and products that are stocked on the website and on Instagram

Nigel Clare 10-14 High Street, Chorley PR7 1DN 01257 249052 nigelclare.com instagram.com/nigelclare

fashion re-make the collection – now back available in-store and online – including their bestselling leather boot styles named Whalley and Langho. “Many styles sold out within the first six weeks,” recalls Marco. “A lot of research went into the making of our women’s shoes and boots, which incorporate LANX’s unique design DNA. While they give a nod to our existing men’s designs, they are a true women’s fit and there are different designs and colourways. They are proving incredibly popular.” Lancashire-based model Lily, who has had an input into the new collection, says: “I actually bought a pair of LANX men’s shoes a while back and have been encouraging them to develop a dedicated women’s range ever since.

WOMEN PUT THEIR FOOT DOWN The LANX shoe-making mantra ‘for the boardroom to the bar’ is now extended to women, who have demanded the brand create an all-female collection, now available online and at their style-driven warehouse shop in Whalley

hen Whalley-based shoe brand LANX launched three years ago, following an extensive marketing campaign, the brand gained a nationwide loyal following with its diverse collection of men’s ‘proper shoes’. With a local warehouse store, busy events schedule and international online presence, women soon became aware of the innovative LANX brand and it wasn’t long before their rapidly growing audience of female followers demanded their own collection, as LANX founder Marco Vaghetti explains: “As we’ve developed our brand and carved out a space in the men’s footwear market we’ve attracted an incredible following from women. “They wanted to wear our existing styles,

however the men’s sizing was proving an issue. So, the message was loud and clear – we needed to create similar shoes with a female-specific fit.”

I’VE BEEN ‘ROAD-TESTING’ A PAIR OF THEIR NEW WOMEN’S HIKER STYLE BOOTS FOR A FEW MONTHS NOW AND THEY ARE FAULTLESS! Following 18-months of in-house design and research, working closely with leading local female creatives, including designer and model, Lily Kate, LANX launched their women’s collection at the beginning of July this year and within just six weeks sold out! Swift off the mark, LANX were able to

BACK IN STOCK!

The new LANX women’s collection is available at their Whalley warehouse shop and online at: lanxshoes.com

“I’ve been ‘road-testing’ a pair of their new women’s Whalley hiker style boots for a few months now and they are faultless! Contributing to the transformation of LANX becoming a brand for both men and women has been a really exciting process for me.” The new LANX women’s collection features 21 different styles of shoes and boots in a diverse range of quality leather and colourways. Starting from £155 for the Harwood loafers to the Dinckley toe-cap boots at £190, the women’s collection, all named after local towns and villages, is available at the impressive LANX warehouse shop on Mitton Road Business Park (no appointment necessary), or online at lanxshoes.com. LANX can also be found exhibiting at various festivals, shows and pop-up events around the UK. n

LANX Unit 25, Mitton Road Business Park Whalley BB7 9YE lanxshoes.com Open daily: 10am-4pm

EXCLUSIVE EYEWEAR Lancashire based The Spectacle Factory is absolutely thrilled to be the first opticians in the region to have been selected as a stockist by the iconic world-renowned brand Cartier. Photography: Robin Lyndon

stablished in 1996, The Spectacle Factory opened its new state-ofthe-art premises in early 2020. The family run business is managed by Robert Sands, who is extremely proud of the new premises as well as the specialist service they are able to deliver to clients. The latest prestigious addition to The Spectacle Factory’s collection is Cartier – a name that is synonymous with iconic style and amazing quality. To become stockists for the luxury brand, The Spectacle Factory had to go through a rigorous selection process, which included a whole range of criteria from an evaluation of the impressive new premises, to assessing the reputation of the company and reviewing

the other brands already stocked. With names such as Hugo Boss, Jimmy Choo, Gucci, Chloe and Chopard, as well as many unique independent collections sourced from all over the world, The Spectacle Factory really is the place to visit if you want a great new pair of glasses. Robert commented: “We’re incredibly

honoured to have the most five-star reviews for opticians in Lancashire. Our aim is to give clients the best vision possible – our innovative approach and investment in the most sophisticated technology, allows us to deliver this. The equipment we use gives our clients a 25 per cent more accurate prescription than a standard test, which represents a huge leap in eye testing.”

THE ZEISS VISUFIT 1000 ALLOWS CLIENTS TO SEE EXACTLY HOW THEY LOOK IN DIFFERENT STYLES FROM EVERY ANGLE Transforming the eyewear selection process from something most people don’t enjoy into an amazing experience is key to the success of The Spectacle Factory and it is apparent that every aspect of the business is different than you might expect from typical opticians. The dedicated and highly skilled team create

fashion

a warm, friendly and welcoming environment in modern, spacious premises to help clients enjoy a relaxing and fun experience. They partner with ZEISS, a global leading technology enterprise in the world of optics to provide the latest vision technologies for clients. This enables The Spectacle Factory to stay at the forefront of optical technology and deliver the right solutions to their clients’ visual needs.

opened in early 2020 all safety measures were put in place, utilising technology where possible to keep clients safe. Appointments are also staggered so there are minimal numbers on site at any one time. This has allowed them to remain open throughout the pandemic without a single known instance of Covid transmission. Robert is passionate about the business and part of his role is to research advancements in the optical market across Europe and seek out the latest frame styles long before they usually come to the UK.

THE SPECTACLE FACTORY FEATURES BRANDS SUCH AS HUGO BOSS, JIMMY CHOO, GUCCI, CHLOE, CHOPARD AND CARTIER

Robert continued: “We regularly produce educational videos which are viewed by hundreds of thousands across the globe, giving us a far greater audience reach. As a result, we have clients around the world and in every county in the UK. To deliver a fully enjoyable experience to clients from afar, we have teamed up with Stanley House Hotel and Spa where clients can stay and experience the beauty of the Ribble Valley.” As the new premises and showroom were

Investments in the business are based on the latest technologies available that would benefit clients, as well as frames that Robert knows clients will adore from distinguished brands like Cartier or sophisticated independent brands that are often exclusive to them. One example of the innovative technology on offer is the ZEISS Visufit 1000, which allows clients to see exactly how they look in different styles from every angle, and easily compare different styles side by side. This makes choosing the right eyewear easier than ever before. It can even simulate

different tints, which are a major trend at the moment. Robert concluded: “Whether you want to have the best eye care possible or you want to invest in striking glasses that make

you feel amazing, or both, come and meet our team of experienced specialists, who will make you feel safe, relaxed and reassured. With the introduction of the Cartier collection, complemented by many other distinguished brands you’ll certainly be spoilt for choice.” n

The Spectacle Factory Unit 1, Dewhurst Row Bamber Bridge Preston PR5 6BB 01772 312213 thespectaclefactory.com

LIVING SOBER Covid and the situation we were living in has led to many people re-evaluating their priorities. For many reasons an increasing number of people are choosing a sober life

ost of us know the effects of having ‘too much’ to drink and vow to ‘never drink again’ but with the pressures of society, work and social lives we find it difficult to really cut out alcohol. The benefits of cutting down or quitting alcohol are heavily documented from weight loss, better sleep patterns, and reducing the risk of cancer and other alcohol-related diseases. It’s an undisputed fact that the less you drink the less risk there is to your long-term health. Established in 2015, OYNB (which stands for One Year No Beer) is an award-winning

behaviour change programme and online toolkit for surviving modern society alcoholfree, aimed at anyone drinking more than 3 glasses of wine a week.

IT’S ABOUT EMPOWERING PEOPLE TO BREAK DOWN OLD HABITS AND BUILD NEW ONES The business was founded by Ruari Fairbairns, who found alcohol was negatively affecting his life while working as an oil trader. He set out to give up alcohol for 90 days, carried on and ended up writing

health&beauty a book about his experience, which led to him starting One Year No Beer. He describes it: “As a toolkit for surviving modern society alcohol-free” and has recruited more than 90,000 members in 90 countries. With a member base of over 90,000 they believe that having a community is crucial to making a positive lifestyle change, and so the founders are constantly finding new and exciting ways to provide this support.

TIPS FOR SURVIVING SOCIAL EVENTS SOBER • You can use apple juice in wine glass or alcohol free beer to make it look like you are drinking – if you really feel the peer pressure, no one needs to know. That said, it could be a good idea to talk to the person organising the night directly. • By speaking directly to that person, and explaining to them that you are not drinking, this will really help you to get them on side and enable them to see things from your perspective. This will also really reduce the peer pressure. • Before meeting with loved ones, plan well ahead and decide what you are going to drink as an alternative– don’t leave it to the last minute to decide as often your brain will go on auto-pilot and you will find yourself fighting harder to resist old habits.

IT’S AN UNDISPUTED FACT THAT THE LESS YOU DRINK THE LESS RISK THERE IS TO YOUR LONG-TERM HEALTH OYNB is not an abstinence programme, it is not about eliminating alcohol entirely. It’s about empowering people to break down old habits and build new ones, creating a positive mind-set that lets the individual take back control and make clear-sighted decisions. One of the strongest triggers for having a drink is to distress. We have all become so familiar with using alcohol this way that many of us have forgotten about all of the other great and much more natural ways to relax without alcohol. Drinking alcohol does make you feel relaxed, but other activities such as exercise, meditation, yoga and giving to charity also release natural chemicals in your brains which make you more relaxed and less anxious. The OYNB members say that they never realised that it was actually the behaviours connected with drinking alcohol that made them feel like they needed a drink and, also, they found themselves in a vicious cycle. Taking a break from this cycle enables you to relax and unwind naturally and this should hopefully be the starting point for developing new and healthier habits that will replace old ones. n

For more information visit: oneyearnobeer.com

• Make sure that you have something organised for the following day, that you are really looking forward to. Whether that be a run, walk, bike ride or a special day with family, having something exciting to get up early for the next morning will really help you to remain focused on off the drink the night before.

HOW TO SET YOURSELF UP FOR SUCCESSFULLY DRINKING LESS If you really want to start drinking less, then you need to plan for success. With this in mind, here are a few top tips to help you get ahead of the game and really help you to reduce your alcohol intake in order to be a happy healthier you. • Be sure to stock up on alcohol free drinks so that when you’re feeling the need to drink something at the end of a long day, there are plenty of tasty alternatives for you to enjoy. • Why not order yourself a new different alcohol free drink to try every weekend so that you can look forward to having a tasting session and enjoying and talking about the different flavours? Make it exciting! • You could also consider running an alcohol free tasting with your friends or family – even if this was something that you had to do virtually. • Cutting back on the booze will also do wonders for your bank balance so pick something that you have wanted for a long time but perhaps have been unable to afford and then set aside the money that you would have otherwise spent on alcohol so that you can save up for it and finally buy it. • Make a promise to yourself that you are going to get healthy in 2022 – use the calorie calculator on the OYNB website to calculate how many calories you will be saving by cutting back on the booze. • Finally, if you are still struggling with all of this, take some time to identify what might be sitting at the root cause of your need to drink alcohol – is it your job? Are you having problems in your relationship? Have you got money worries? If you take some time to uncover the triggers, then this will go a long way to helping you to address them.

health&beauty

ADVANTAGES OF ORGANIC BEAUTY PRODUCTS AND COSMETICS Every day, a colossal amount of toxins and chemical poisons enter our body with food, cosmetics, and even clothes. They can accumulate and provoke serious diseases, sometimes even chronic and incurable one’s writes Alexa Wang

rganic cosmetics are actively gaining popularity in modern life due to their unique properties that can make our life healthier. Today, the world’s leading cosmetics manufacturers produce natural makeup, sulphate-free, and natural shampoos, cosmetics without parabens, harmful chemical additives, SLS, and synthetic fragrances. Organic skin care products and natural cosmetics contain herbs, oils, and extracts produced without synthetic pesticides, fertilisers, or genetically modified ingredients. Well-known ingredients to be avoided are parabens and SLS. Natural cosmetic products often have a quality mark, the best known are BDIH and ECOCERT. It is also important to distinguish the term ‘natural’ on products, as this may already be mentioned while the product contains only 0.01 per cent natural ingredients. The ultimate benefit of choosing natural and organic alternatives is that they effectively provide long-lasting health to our skin. Organic

cosmetics usually contain much higher levels of natural nutrients contained in essential vitamins and minerals. Organic foods also provide essential secondary metabolites such as phytonutrients, flavonoids and polyphenols. Cosmetics derived directly from these foods can provide numerous health benefits.

THE ULTIMATE BENEFIT OF CHOOSING NATURAL AND ORGANIC ALTERNATIVES IS THAT THEY EFFECTIVELY PROVIDE LONG-LASTING HEALTH TO OUR SKIN Besides the fact that organic or natural cosmetics are much better for you, it is also much better for the environment.

Nature is less affected, and no pesticides are released into the environment. It is, of course, better for yourself because it is often much gentler on your skin.Your skin can absorb many substances that enter your body, including chemicals in the products you use. These chemicals also end up in your shower drain, for example, and the environment is again burdened. Many petrochemicals such as triclosan are not degradable in the environment. Natural products are often biodegradable. By choosing natural or organic products for ourselves and our family members’ daily care, we can reduce the number of harmful ingredients and maintain our health. After all, cosmetics: toothpaste, creams, shampoos, deodorants – are our daily companions and the choice of high-quality and harmless products directly affects our health. Organic cosmetics give a more lasting effect. Their aim is not at a second solution to a problem or its temporary disguise, but a comprehensive recovery and activation of the body’s natural processes. Their action primarily aims to normalise biological processes, harmonious replenishment of ingredients close to our body and maintaining health, whether skin, hair, or nails. When all our internal processes work correctly and thoroughly, we shine with beauty and health. n

health&beauty

TAKE THE STEP TO CLEAR SKIN

Photography: Robin Lyndon

AND FEEL MORE CONFIDENT

ince the age of 13, paralegal Emily had suffered from acne and had tried everything from doctors and dermatologists to numerous creams and tablets, none of which had worked. For years Emily had a complicated and time-consuming make-up routine to cover up her skin. Even at school, where she was very popular with the teachers, she would be told off for wearing so much make-up. She regularly cancelled social events with friends and family as she felt so uncomfortable about her skin.

Initially sceptical after reading an article about EMA Skin Aesthetics, she tried it as a last resort and has never looked back. Within three months of starting the treatments Emily’s skin had completely recovered and it has transformed her life.

Acne can cause major problems for people, particularly young people who are going through hormonal changes. A combination of spots and scarring can leave people feeling stressed, anxious and very self-conscious Emily commented: “I honestly can’t believe the amazing transformation as a result of the treatments. It’s been three years now and my skin is now completely clear of any spots and scarring, it is unbelievable. It has been such a confidence boost for me.” Emma used a range of specialist non-intrusive skin treatments throughout Emily’s journey to clearer skin, including: • Oxygen therapy • Microdermabrasion • Mesotherapy Dermapen micro needling • Skin peels • Light therapy Emily has been so impressed with the treatments that she has recommended Emma to at least a dozen family and friends, most of whom have booked appointments. One of those was Chloe, a teacher who also suffered from acne and had tried numerous treatments that hadn’t worked. Chloe commented: “Your face is the first thing people see and it therefore makes you very self-conscious if you suffer from acne. Emma used a combination of micro needling and light therapy and this has transformed my skin. Over the years I have spent a fortune on creams and make up, but I would much rather spend the money on Emma’s treatments and have clear and healthy skin.”

Emma, the founder and Director of EMA Skin Aesthetics has had an outstanding career for 18 years and her primary aim is to enable her clients to look and feel confident about their appearance. Her clinical and beauty commitment to her clients is achieving timeless, astounding results, through administering scientificallyproven and pioneering, cutting-edge treatments. Emily concluded: “Most people don’t understand how distressing it can be suffering from skin conditions, it can literally affect every aspect of your life. Having an expert like Emma who specialises in skin treatments can literally transform your whole life. She is phenomenal and worth every penny.” n

SPECIAL OFFER

Acne and Scarring Skin Treatment Mesotherapy with oxygen therapy Normally £299, for Live readers only £159 Plus a free Opera LED mask value £45 Offer ends 10th October 2021

EMA Skin Aesthetics Ltd Upstairs at Toni & Guy 86 Fishergate, Preston PR1 2NJ 01772 821600 07547 802062 info@emaskinaesthetics.co.uk emaskinaesthetics.co.uk

health&beauty

Cheryl Hook of melt explains her love of fragrance and how it can help reduce stress and improve well-being

ack in the 1990’s, after a lifelong love of fragrance, melt began experimenting with essential oils to help balance some of the more negative aspects of a busy working life, which involved a lot of travel. The resulting formulations worked so well that we continued to develop more and today have a library of over 50 fragrances to call on. Fast forward to the spring of 2020 and suddenly we were all at home – and those of us that were still able, or required to work, were doing so at stressful levels. At melt we started to look at ways to enhance our time at home with fragrance. Studies have shown that fragrance influences how we perceive an activity or place – and how we feel about it.

Here’s how it works: We smell with our brain, NOT our nose. When you inhale a fragrance, especially essential oils, the compounds enter the olfactory system via the nasal passage and from there have a direct impact on the area of the brain that deals with emotions, memory, mood and heart rate.

IT’S MORE THAN

JUST FRAGRANCE...

Once we understand this, we can start to choose our fragrances to help create positive changes to emotional and physical well-being, productivity and reduce stress. Knowing how different oils work means we can create different aroma-zones. For example, fragrances can be introduced in hand washes in the bathrooms as well as in spritzes, diffusers and candles. About the benefits of essential oils: Lavender: seriously versatile, it can promote restful sleep and relaxation – a definite contender for the end of day bath and bed. (Found in our White, Lavender, Still & Rich Cream fragrances) Rose Geranium: balances emotions, calming and uplifting – great for those tricky zoom meetings. (Used in our Neroli & Rose Geranium fragrance) Grapefruit: refreshing, antiseptic and stimulating – perfect to kick start the day. (Found in Shine) Petigrain: uplifting and good for exhaustion. (Used in our Recherche fragrance) Rose: balances and calms. (Used in our Still, More & Noir fragrances) Vetiver: grounding and soothing. (Used in Nutmeg & Vetiver fragrance) Frankincense: eases coughs and helps with deep breathing. (Used in Violet & Black Pepper)

Peppermint: great for headaches. (Used in Still) So, from the above it is easy to see how switching your home fragrances can help you close the door on the ‘office’ and establish a relaxing environment for the evening. As the nights draw in – why not visit melt? We have a peaceful and relaxing Chandlery where you can select your perfect fragrance over a glass of wine. We operate a ‘no rush, no push’ welcome to all visitors. n Retail outlet, Chandlery and Reading Room open seven days a week

Monday to Saturday: 10am-5pm Sundays and Bank Holidays: 12noon-4.30pm

melt Backridge Farm Waddington BB7 3LQ 01200 443377 www.themeltco.com /meltcandles themeltco @meltcandles

RVBA Small Business Award 2018 Independent Retailer 2017 Artisan Business 2017

health&beauty

espite new lockdown restrictions, RejuvaMed in Clitheroe is able to continue to offer its medical services for women’s health, varicose veins and weight management as normal in a COVID-secure outpatient environment. Experienced local GP Dr Helen McKeating is part of the team and specialises in women’s health and gynaecology. Dr Helen explains: “Many women experience potentially embarrassing and inconvenient ‘waterworks’ symptoms which include what we call stress or urge incontinence. This means they have ‘oops! moments’ when coughing, laughing or sneezing, or need to suddenly rush to the toilet. It is thought that up to 60 per cent of women experience such symptoms. “There is limited help that can be offered for such problems by the NHS and often women are ashamed and afraid to seek medical care. But now RejuvaMed offers a new high-tech treatment which can quickly help solve those problems.”

BHRT FROM REJUVAMED HAS CHANGED MY LIFE! Mrs Sian Roberts

The clinic has introduced the 3D-Vjuve, which is the latest addition to 3D’s range of laser systems. The 3D-Vjuve offers an exciting new vaginal tightening treatment, working in a minimally invasive way to manage a range of post-childbirth and peri-menopausal issues, from incontinence to vaginal atrophy (thinning and inflammation of the vaginal wall) and dryness. There is increasing research evidence that it can also improve sexual function. After an initial consultation to assess suitability, Dr Helen uses the 3D-Vjuve to treat these embarrassing and often

LIFE-CHANGING TREATMENTS Award winning clinic RejuvaMed at Holmes Mill offers specialist women’s health services including Bioidentical HRT limiting conditions in a fast, painless and highly effective way, with little or no downtime. A consultation with Dr Helen is £50, with each subsequent treatment priced at £500, or just £1300 for the recommended course of three sessions. RejuvaMed is also the first clinic in Lancashire to introduce bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), a natural, individually tailored and effective alternative to current NHS HRT treatments.

Bioidentical hormones have the same chemical structure as naturally occurring hormones, which diminish as we age. These can benefit patients who

have a hormone imbalance, particularly if they have tried other hormonal medications on the NHS, including HRT, and experienced unwanted side effects.

It can also help treat other hormonal imbalances such as menstrual problems, postnatal depression, osteoporosis and endometriosis. The treatment plan includes regular follow ups and monitoring in order to ensure optimum results. Prices for BHRT start at £50 for an initial fact-finding consultation. n For more information or to book a consultation with Dr Helen at our CQC registered medical clinic, please email info@rejuvamed.co.uk and we will call you back.

After an initial consultation, Dr Helen will carry out blood tests to pinpoint specific issues and then prescribe a personalised treatment plan that includes a tailor-made hormone prescription. The medicines are then delivered to your home address. Bioidentical HRT can give relief from a wide range of pre-menopausal and menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, mood changes, weight gain and sleep issues.

RejuvaMed Skin Clinic & Vein Centre Holmes Cottage Woone Lane Clitheroe BB7 1BG 01200 538668 rejuvamed.co.uk

TOP NOTCH CARE FOR THE FYLDE Spire Fylde Coast Hospital’s commitment to deliver the highest level of care throughout the region continues with its latest investment in day care surgery, writes Meena McDonald. Photography: Roger Moore

orking collaboratively with healthcare professionals such as GPs and district nurses as well as the local NHS Trusts in Lancashire and the Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCG) to establish the needs of the local community, Spire Fylde Coast Hospital are expanding their services to enable them to carry out procedures and minor operations in an outpatients setting. Patients waiting for injection therapies for their hip, knee, shoulder, hand or foot can be seen and treated much more quickly.

Mr Steve Mannion, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon commented: “The injection therapy would be carried out under ultrasound guidance for accuracy and instead of waiting all day to be seen in theatre the patient will be treated much more swiftly in an outpatient setting. Several minor operations will also be carried out in the new unit enabling patients to be treated without delay and allowing them to continue with their everyday lives without suffering in pain.” Minor operations which can be conducted in the new outpatients unit include Carpal Tunnel, Trigger Finger,

skin lesions, varicose veins, vasectomies, as well as some gynaecological treatments such as colposcopy and hysteroscopy.

WE WANT TO ENABLE THOSE IN THE COMMUNITY TO LIVE THEIR LIVES AS FULLY AS POSSIBLE, GETTING BACK TO WORK, ENJOYING SPORTING ACTIVITIES AND OTHER HOBBIES WITHOUT BEING IN PAIN Mike Sarson, Director of Clinical Services at Spire Fylde Coast Hospital commented: “We’ve worked with medical experts and the local trust to identify the needs of our community and we believe this new service will address the key pressure points in the area. We will deliver a much more effective and efficient service to patients who are currently on extensive waiting lists with the NHS and are in pain and struggling to live their normal lives. We want to enable those in the community to live their lives as fully as possible, getting back to work, enjoying sporting activities and other hobbies without being in pain.”

health&beauty All operations and medical procedures will be carried out by some of the most highly respected and experienced consultants and surgeons in the region, so patients can rest assured that they will be receiving the best treatment possible. Patients will be able to self-refer or be referred by their GP and be treated at their own convenience. Following an initial consultation with the Consultant a treatment plan will be produced and agreed, with the procedure being carried out at the patients convenience. Some of the procedures can be conducted within the space of a couple of hours and the patients would remain in their own clothes without having to change into hospital gowns as they would have done in a theatre setting.

A TRULY COMPLEMENTARY SERVICE TO THE NHS AND A FANTASTIC SERVICE FOR OUR PATIENTS Mike Sarson continued: “This new investment will lead to much greater efficiencies and throughput of patients, allowing more people to be seen for minor less invasive operations and procedures, whilst freeing up the theatres to allow more major operations to take place, such as knee and hip replacements and hysterectomies. A truly complementary service to the NHS and a fantastic service for our patients.” The hospital recently invested in a new high technology state-of-the-art MRI Scanner to facilitate faster diagnosis and treatment. The demand from patients for this new facility has been tremendous and the service will now be increasing from five to seven days. Additionally, the hospital has invested in a hugely popular new breast service offering specialist care from a dedicated team of professionals. This service starts with breast screening and will be able to deliver diagnosis and treatment which may be required on site, providing an easily accessible service to those on the Fylde Coast. The current situation has truly changed people’s attitudes towards healthcare and their own wellbeing. Rather than suffer on a daily basis and have their lives restricted, many are instead choosing to utilise private health cover or self-fund procedures. As the waiting lists continue to grow, particularly for minor non-urgent procedures, people are increasingly selecting this option.

Those individuals wishing to access private healthcare services also have the option of 0 per cent finance for a 12-month period through the hospital. Mike concluded: “Spire Fylde Coast Hospital is dedicated to delivering speed of access to treatment and the highest Consultant care in the region. That is our promise to all our patients. Our investment decisions are based on local demand and we work very closely with all healthcare professionals in the region to deliver what our patients require. By providing early interventions plus fast diagnostics and treatments we can help improve patient outcomes. Our fundamental goal is to enable people to live their lives as fully, healthily and pain free as possible.” n

Spire Fylde Coast Hospital St. Walburgas Road, Blackpool FY3 8BP Main switchboard: 01253 394188 Self-pay treatment enquiries: 01253 308031 spirehealthcare.com

health&beauty and choice of how patients want to be seen: face to face, by phone, online or a home visit, as well as providing access to wider services at discounted rates. Corporate membership packages are also available for organisations with more than 10 employees, offering annual health checks, office visits and fast diagnostic services. This of course will help reduce downtime in productivity due to illness and sick leave, increase efficiency, improve retention and promote wellness in the office.

GP LED CARE IN THE FYLDE Excitement is growing for the opening of the new Fylde Private GP Practice. Located in the old RBS building in the heart of St Annes, the premises are nearing completion ready to welcome patients, many of whom have already shown genuine interest in this new local service

he aim of Fylde Private GP is to deliver outstanding GP led care and build lasting two-way relationships with their patients. With fast access to GP appointments and each consultation lasting up to 30 minutes, giving patients the time to build a rapport with the GP, allowing them to develop a more comprehensive understanding of any immediate health issues and their patients longer term health and wellbeing needs. The practice will initially open 5-6 days a week with the intention of opening 7 days a week in the future. Matthew Cook, Managing Director of Fylde Private GP commented: “We are offering people an alternative Private GP service and a choice of how and when they are seen by a GP at a convenient time and place. Our GPs will deliver clear pathways to fast diagnosis and treatment to our patients. We are focussed on early intervention and long-term health and wellbeing, identifying health issues early on and preventing them becoming worse

or in some cases tackling them before they even arise.” A user friendly and secure online patient portal has been developed by the GP practice which will allow patients to sign up and register for the practice, choose the date, time, and GP they want to see. Patients will be able to communicate directly with the GP through the portal, streamlining the whole process and delivering speedier diagnosis and treatment.

Fylde Private GP will also offer a range of medical services such as vaccinations, blood tests, urine tests, health screenings plus some minor surgical procedures. The practice has partnered with a local medical specialist to offer ultrasound, MRI and CT scans, enabling the GP to deliver faster diagnosis and implement any necessary treatment plan for recovery. The team are planning a number of open evenings to introduce the local community to Fylde Private GP. Visitors will be able to view the spectacular new premises which the team have completely transformed, retaining many of the building’s traditional features whilst introducing a truly contemporary slant with stunning furniture, lighting and furnishings. Matthew concluded: “Whilst our approach is traditional, we are a modern practice and our doctors use the latest evidence based treatments to deliver the best patient-centred care and outcomes, empowering our patients to take control of their future health.” n If you are interested in finding out more about their services and registering for the opening patient list, please contact 0333 241 6441 or visit the website to register at: www.fyldeprivategp.com

Cost effective membership packages are available for individuals, couples and families, as well as pay as you go options. The membership plans provide flexibility

Fylde Private GP 26 St Annes Road West Lytham St Annes FY8 1RF 0333 241 6441 fyldeprivategp.com

New Private GP Practice Lytham St Annes

Monthly membership plans and pay as you go options available.

A 30-minute consultation time within 24 hours.

0333 241 6441 | www.fyldeprivategp.com 26 St Annes Road West, Lytham St Annes, FY8 1RF

lifestyle Andrew Booker, who set-up The Old Bank with son James, said: “It’s very exciting times for Kirkham it’s a great time to invest here. It’s important that we create a culture where people are choosing not to go out of town to eat and actually stop in their hometown. I really think that it is changing for the better.”

LANCASHIRE’S COMEBACK KID There are few places in Lancashire garnering quite so many positive headlines right now as Kirkham

he historic Fylde market town – which can trace its roots back to before its days as a Roman garrison – is creating a real buzz thanks to a £10m council-led regeneration scheme widely heralded as a ‘once in a generation’ opportunity. The ambitious four-year masterplan is funded through various revenue streams secured by Fylde Borough Council’s regeneration team who have pulled off something of a major coup. As other towns looked on enviously, Kirkham won £6.3m from the Government’s Future High Street Fund and £3.6m via Historic England’s High Streets Heritage Action Zone programme. It was not that long ago that Kirkham’s last high street bank closed, and many shops followed suit. Today, walking along Poulton Street – the town’s main shopping thoroughfare – there is a tangible sense that times are changing for the better. “There is a real buzz about Kirkham right now,” said Heidi Hopkinson, co-owner of Serendipity House gift shop on Poulton Street

Elaine Silverwood has seen the ups and downs of Kirkham over the last 20 years. As owner of Poulton Street’s Book, Bean and Ice Cream, she has attracted the likes of Sir Michael Caine and Olympic golden girl Jessica Ennis to hold book signings in the town.

and Chair of Kirkham Business Group. “New businesses have opened on the high street, and there are many more to come.” Bold improvements will be made to the high street, the town’s historic Market Square and wider public realm changes are out to public consultation, while opportunities are being created to not only help existing businesses but encourage new ones too.

THERE IS A REAL BUZZ ABOUT KIRKHAM RIGHT NOW Fylde Council, the Town Council and Business Group together with Lancashire Artisan Traders have been instrumental in helping launch a new monthly Artisan Market every second Saturday of the month showcasing the best of Lancashire produce and products. Two new town centre restaurants – Bull Horns Smokehouse and The Old Bank (situated in Kirkham’s former HSBC bank) have opened, while a number of other businesses have taken over vacant shop units.

A local councillor, and this year’s Mayor of Fylde, Elaine wants the investment to have a long-lasting impact. She said: “Kirkham folk are rightly very passionate about their town and this investment is so timely. It’s vital we not only create excitement and interest today but that we reinvigorate the high street and town centre for the long-term good. That is what Kirkham so richly deserves.” There is plenty afoot at Kirkham, new shops, new market, new places to drink and dine, new historic trails – time to look at Kirkham in a new light we think? n

For more information about Kirkham’s masterplan and associated projects go to: kirkhamfutures.org

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six arches A beautiful riverside location with fishing access on the River Wyre

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Live Preston - A4 - August 2021.indd 1

11/08/2021 16:49:32

lifestyle

Inspired by Tom Pidcock’s MTB Olympic Gold, this latest ride is one for fans of off-road riding and takes in the scenic trails of the Forest of Bowland

SLAIDBURN TO SALTER FELL Route: 28.1miles / 45.2km Elevation: 2788.7ft / 850m Difficulty: 4 / 5 To view the route go to: komoot.com/tour/429229545

LET’S TAKE A RIDE…

ith long days of good weather, summer is the perfect opportunity to head further afield and enjoy a big ride surrounded by spectacular scenery. The route is an out-and-back, traversing Salter Fell along the remains of a Roman road between Clitheroe and Lancaster. By starting in Slaidburn, you cut off most of the tarmac between Clitheroe and Salter Fell. However, it could easily be ridden in reverse or even continued to Lancaster, should you feel adventurous. The first section is a climb all the way onto the top of the fell, so start slowly and find your pace. Don’t go too fast

straight out of the blocks, only to blow up before you’ve reached the trail. Starting in Slaidburn car park, turn right onto Chapel Lane, following the road for 2km. Turn right onto Wood House Lane, keeping left after 750m. Approximately 4.5km in, you’ll arrive at the gate that marks the start of the fell. Following the road to the right, the surface will change as modern tarmac gives way to loose and rocky terrain.

The climb continues gradually with some steep pitches, so maintain that steady pace. Upon reaching the top, you’ll be rewarded by Morecambe Bay and the Lake District being laid out as far as the eye can see on a clear day. Take some time to admire the view and catch your breath. Continuing along the fell, the trail will gently undulate until you drop down to High Salter Farm, marking the start of tarmac roads again.

Continuing along the road, turn right at the T-junction at 18km. Freewheel another 2.8km, turn right at the fork, to reach the midpoint of the ride, the picturesque Wray village. At this point, you can choose between two pubs and a cafe for a wellearned pit-stop. From here, the route is a simple reverse of what you’ve just ridden and you will be surprised how different it is. n ribblecycles.co.uk

YOUR PASSPORT TO THE WILDERNESS HT TRAIL AL 29 ribblecycles.co.uk

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DIVORCE?

NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS Getting divorced is never easy, but if you’re a business owner too and are looking to protect your livelihood during the divorce process, things can get particularly stressful, explains Antonia Love, Partner at Farleys

have helped many business owners through their divorces over the years. They have all benefited from seeking legal advice to clarify their position and plan the best way to move forward to ensure the business is protected as far as possible. Here are some things you may wish to consider if you are heading for a divorce.

Consult with experts early

You should seek advice from a divorce lawyer as soon as you have taken the decision to divorce.Your accountant and financial advisor will also play a key part in the process. Seeking advice early will ensure you are aware of what is involved in the divorce process, what you will need to do, identify any possible risks to your business and offer advice on how best to guard against those risks.

Consider the value of your business

Whether you are a sole trader or your business is owned as a partnership or a limited company, it is likely that the value (whether in terms of capital or as an income

producing asset) will be taken into account by the Court. Whilst it is possible for the Court to order a business to be sold, that is most unusual. It is much more likely that the Court will order the non-business owning spouse to have more of the property or cash owned outside of the business and/or order maintenance to be paid than to ‘kill the goose that lays the golden egg’.

Keep a cool head

Unfortunately, by their very nature, divorces can be emotionally taxing, particularly so when you reach the part of negotiating a financial settlement. This can cause arguments and bring out a hard edge to your spouse’s personality, but it is important you keep a cool head and keep sight of the end goal. Channel any frustrations into resolving matters promptly, allowing you to work hard on your business and come out of the other side stronger.

Consider settling out of court The Court is dealing with an increasing backlog so where possible you should always strive to settle your finances out of Court. This may also allow a more flexible and creative outcome that is more tailored to you and to your family. Consider a round table meeting to resolve financial matters as soon as possible.

Don’t forget a pre-nuptial agreement

After a divorce, you may not want to rush into another marriage but after time, if you do decide to remarry, I would strongly advise you consider having a prenuptial agreement drawn up. While not legally binding, a pre-nuptial agreement does hold weight in court and can provide peace of mind that your pre-marital assets are preserved. n

Prioritise

Decide on your desired outcomes at the beginning of the process, for example, the longevity of the business. Once decided, you should be prepared to be flexible on other matters. Keep your main objective in mind and try not to get caught up in arguments over less important things – which, believe me, happens a lot!

If you are a business owner and are considering divorce or separation, get in touch with Farleys’ family law experts on 01254 368040 or email: info@farleys.com Visit farleys.com for more information

THE GLORY OF AUTUMN Visit Holden Clough Nurseries and you will discover a whole world of interesting events, inspirational gardening ideas and, with the approaching winter season, artisan markets and creative masterclasses

own at Holden Clough Nurseries visitors have an array of new things to discover as the new season unfolds including treasure trails,expertmasterclasses,late-nightshopping, artisan and Christmas markets, warming seasonal menus and new vintage artefacts and lanterns to light up the darkest of nights! As Holden Clough embraces autumn, you can be sure to experience all the sensory joyfulness of picking and planting bulbs in readiness for them to flower next spring. So, let’s take a seasonal tour around this ever-changing rural idyll that is tucked away in the pretty hamlet of Holden:

SEPTEMBER

CHILDREN’S DAHLIA TREASURE TRAIL: Bring your little gardeners and their friends for a free flower hunt with prize at the end. PICK YOUR OWN SPRING BULBS: It’s that glorious time of year to go along to Holden Clough to pick your own bulbs to plant in readiness for the spring.

AUTUMN IN THE BOTANICAL ROOM: A celebration of all things autumn and a hint of Halloween! HARROGATE AUTUMN FLOWER SHOW: To be held at Newby Hall from 17th – 19th September. Why not go along and support Holden Clough’s John and Kate Foley who will be presenting their Gold Medal winning English Garden that will feature hand-picked flowers from Holden Clough’s growing field.

lifestyle THE POTTING SHED: This comes into its own this season featuring specialist products to put the garden to bed for winter, including feeding, cutting back and fruit and veg storage. THE GLASSHOUSE: The changing season will see new vintage furniture as well as lighting and lanterns to inspire. AUTUMN IN THE KITCHEN: Holden Clough will be celebrating a new seasonal menu with dishes such as warming butternut squash frittata and Tandoor roasted cauliflower soup – delicious!

OCTOBER

PUMPKIN TREASURE TRAIL: A seasonal adventure for little gardeners to learn as they go and a prize at the end. WINTER POTS MASTERCLASS: Holden Clough’s John Foley will lead this masterclass in traditional and contemporary planting to add winter interest to your garden. (6th October 4.30pm-5.30pm) GARLIC BULBS: Time to plant those garlic bulbs for their health benefits during the winter months – plus all those delicious recipe dishes. CHRISTMAS PREVIEW: Have an exclusive preview of all things Christmas at Holden Clough. This exclusive evening is available only by booking. Mulled wine and mince pies. (14th October 6pm-8pm)

CHRISTMAS BEGINS: Holden Clough turns into a magical winter wonderland and Christmas emporium. (15th October) PUMPKIN FOOD MARKET: Featuring artisan producers from around the Ribble Valley from cheese to sweet treats – and many more. (23rd-24th October 9am-5pm)

NOVEMBER

WINTER GARDEN: An opportunity to join John Foley to learn how to enhance your garden over the winter months. (3rd November from 4pm-5pm) CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: A not-to-be-missed lights switch-on – the centre piece at Holden Clough! (17th November 4.30pm) STAR CHRISTMAS MARKET: The first Christmas market of the season at Holden Clough. (19th-21st November 9am-6pm) n

CHRISTMAS WREATHMAKING WORKSHOPS

AUTUMN GARDENING JOBS As we head for autumn, John Foley of Holden Clough shares his gardening tips:

An opportunity to create your own handmade traditional wreath for your front door with guidance from our in-house florists. You will create your own individual wreath to enjoy throughout Christmas. 29th & 30th November 1st, 7th, 8th & 14th December 10am, 2pm & 6pm £80pp inc Prosecco and nibbles

September is usually a slightly cooler, gustier month and as the days become noticeably shorter, there will be plenty of jobs to do in the garden to prepare it for autumn and winter. If you have a fruit or vegetable patch, you’ll most likely be reaping the rewards at this time of year.

CHRISTMAS IS COMING… Holden Clough will soon become a magical winter wonderland with a whole host of events and masterclasses coming up. Watch this space!

It’s also time to get out and start planting spring-flowering bulbs for next year – come along to Holden Clough where you can pick your own. September in the garden is also the time to enjoy the last of the sunshine!

holdenclough.com

• Pick autumn raspberries and other fruit you may have • Weed and seed lawns • Plant spring flowering bulbs • Divide herbaceous perennials • Collect and sow seed from perennials and hardy annuals • Dig up any remaining potatoes • Net ponds before leaves begin to fall • Continue watering any new plants • Start to clean out cold frames and greenhouses so they are ready for autumn

Holden Clough Nurseries Holden, Bolton-by-Bowland, Clitheroe BB7 4PF 01200 447615 holdenclough.com

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CLEANING UP OUR COASTLINE Most of us are very proud to live near the beautiful beaches we have on the Fylde coast but every single day someone drops their litter and leaves it for someone else to pick up. Thankfully there are an amazing group of volunteer’s called the Fylde Litter Action Group (FLAG), who work without thanks to clean up after these individuals

ou may be thinking that its just youngsters who are too lazy to walk to bins, or people from out of town that have had a drink and show our ‘home’ no respect. The truth of the matter is that a lot of the people who drop litter live right here amongst us. In a one-hour litter pick FLAG, aka the ‘Tossers’ can recover well over 50 disposable napkins many buried in the sand (because people have a warped belief that it’s not littering if you bury it!). Many dog walkers on the Fylde take bags to put their dog’s waste in, but some will bag up the waste only to throw the bag in the dunes, or once again bury it in the sand.

But it’s not just dog owners, people with babies leave nappies in the dunes and it’s not just babies nappies, adult diapers have been found littered on a regular basis. Whilst this is bad enough there is plenty of dog and human faeces left un-bagged in the dunes. Despite the nearest McDonalds being on Squires Gate or Boundary Road, there is regularly left over McDonald’s rubbish spread everywhere and plenty of fish and chip polystyrene boxes. With great weather we get to welcome more visitors, unfortunately the minority who leave rubbish behind increases the amount of litter on our beaches. Some

visitors do try to pile up the rubbish in one place but there is a growing number of people that just don’t seem to care. It’s very simple, next time you visit our beaches please take a waste bag with you, use one of the many bins provided or take your trash home. Without the many fantastic volunteers the beaches and dunes could not have been kept clean because of the increased demand. We all have a duty of care to pick up after ourselves and keep the Fylde coast beautiful and safe for everyone to enjoy.

WE ALL HAVE A DUTY OF CARE TO PICK UP AFTER OURSELVES AND KEEP THE FYLDE COAST BEAUTIFUL AND SAFE FOR EVERYONE TO ENJOY The Fylde Litter Action Group (FLAG) will be able to provide advice to anyone who wants to organise a clean-up and the Fylde Council Waste Prevention and Enforcement Team will assist anyone who has a concern regarding litter in the community. n Likewise join the Tossers facebook group and support their work facebook.com/groups/DontBeATosser/ fylde.gov.uk

PROMOTION

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we’re here to help... Whether you’re saving for your future or theirs, we’re here to help with a range of accounts to help you reach your goals. Got a smartphone to hand? Open the camera and point it at the QR code above to see our latest rates. Get to know us a little better As a mutual building society, we’re owned by our members, run for their benefit and not for shareholders, that’s why we aim to deliver the best products and customer service possible. To find out more about us and to find your closest branch, please visit www.themarsden.co.uk.

Visit www.themarsden.co.uk to find your closest branch

Marsden Building Society is a member of the Building Societies Association. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority under registration number 206050. Principal Office, 6-20 Russell Street, Nelson, Lancashire BB9 7NJ. FP192958

Photography: Kirsten Platt Photography: Kirsten Platt

Photography: Kirsten Platt

YEAR-ROUND ATTRACTION Over the summer the grounds of Samlesbury Hall have been transformed in a thrilling project that includes a new community garden alongside a newly created Heritage Café

hile the bees at Samlesbury Hall have found a new purpose, the historic hall is still buzzing. Samlesbury Hall now has a new restaurant – the Heritage Café – located in what was the old bee centre, which is a hive of activity with live jazz, afternoon teas, private dining and a legendary menu featuring locally sourced ingredients from Lancashire. Not to mention the new tapas and platter evenings, starting every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 5pm to 7pm – the perfect

stop off for a bite to eat and, maybe, a cocktail or mocktail? The café will be open Tuesday through till Sunday and won’t close when weddings are taking place, which means visitors can now enjoy Samlesbury all year round. Last year Samlesbury Hall began an ambitious plan to transform the grounds of the historic hall making them a year-round attraction, planting new trees, renovating the borders and courtyard gardens and creating a native wildflower meadow, which has been the inspiration for the botanicalthemed Heritage Café, which features wildflower murals and dried-flower artwork across the walls. Outside the café is a new community garden with a focus on wellbeing. Community groups across the region, along with Lancashire Adult Learning, will present a programme of activities from September, with a view to giving people a sense of belonging.

Courses such as flower arranging, horticulture, mindfulness, tai chi, yoga and meditation will take place in specific areas of the garden with visitors, who are interested in the hall, having the opportunity to

THE HAMLET IS IDEAL FOR WINTER STAYCATIONS – CURL UP BY A COSY FIRE PIT AND ENJOY THE BEAUTIFUL RURAL SETTING WITH PLENTY OF COUNTRY WALKS AND ACTIVITIES volunteer and become part of this historic gem that has been one of Lancashire’s leading attractions for decades. Weddings are a big part of Samlesbury Hall – during the pandemic more than 160 weddings were re-scheduled with brides and grooms showing great patience. Josh Clarke, Samlesbury’s new wedding

lifestyle

Photography: Kirsten Platt

and enjoy the beautiful rural setting, the gorgeous grounds with bee friendly wildlife meadows and a fantastic play area for children with plenty of country walks and activities. Also within the grounds is Dottie’s Wafflery, which continues to be superpopular with visitors. Serving decadent desserts, from brilliant banoffee waffles to mouth-watering milkshakes, cakes, local ice-cream, speciality teas and coffee, crumpets and scones, the wafflery has become a ‘go-to’ destination in itself. With the help of grants from the Cultural Recovery Fund, the Samlesbury Hall team has, over the past 18 months, been able to spend time planning this ambitious renovation and recovery project, which has swiftly been implemented. Located in the perfect position just off Preston New Road, the hall dates back to 1325. Fast forward through the centuries and it is now a major tourist destination that is steeped in history yet has modern-day facilities that cater for 21st century visitors. The hall’s attractions are many and varied – watch out for the return of the

EXPERIENCE THE NEW HERITAGE CAFÉ – PERFECT FOR POPPING IN FOR A CHILLED DRINK OR COCKTAIL, DELICIOUS TAPAS AND SHARING PLATTERS

Photography: Kirsten Platt

co-ordinator, added his skillset to the smooth re-scheduling operation with his calm demeanour, years of experience and his endeavours to build strong relationships with couples, who know their wedding is going to be the best day of their lives. Couples now have an additional facility for weddings at Samlesbury Hall – the former restaurant, located in the old Billiard Room, has been transformed into a fabulous space where the bridegroom, best man and groomsmen can meet and get ready for the day or even have a game of billiards on the full size table on the morning of their wedding. Tucked away in the grounds of the hall is The Hamlet, a cluster of luxury shepherd’s huts, which add to the hall’s wedding accommodation offering as well as giving visitors the opportunity of a great all-yearround staycation. The hall has seen a busy summer at The Hamlet and potential visitors are encouraged to book early for winter staycations – curl up and toast marshmallows by a cosy fire pit

popular Pizza, Prosecco and Peroni Nights when the chefs will cook the most delicious pizzas in the wood-fired oven within the courtyard and experience the new Heritage Café – perfect for popping in for a chilled drink or cocktail, delicious tapas and sharing platters. With free entry all year round, Samlesbury Hall is a destination that appeals to all generations with its educational and wellbeing activities, its destination café and wafflery, historic tours on Sundays (with the witch or spooky Simon) and the beautiful grounds. Go to the website to check opening times – the hall closes during weddings and private functions, activities, facilities and events. n Samlesbury Hall Preston New Road Samlesbury PR5 0UP 01254 812010 samlesburyhall.co.uk Opening times Please call or go to: samlesburyhall.co.uk TM

lifestyle

RUNNING A MARATHON FOR CRY 10-year-old Oscar Drysdale has been running a marathon to raise funds for the charity Cry which supports cardiac risk in the young. Photography: Roger Moore

Steph Drysdale, Oscars mum said: “Oscar has always tried to support TEAM4LUKE and often donates his pocket money. This year he said he wanted to do something more to support. He said he wanted to

scar ran a mile a day over 26 days to raise funds for TEAM4LUKE who collect on behalf of Cry in memory of Luke Rutter. Luke Rutter tragically lost his life in 2010. The 15-year-old son of Jill and Al Rutter, went to sleep after playing tennis one Saturday and never woke up. Luke died in his sleep due to an undiagnosed heart condition. Luke’s death was due to an undiagnosed heart defect. He was an otherwise healthy 15-year-old athlete who died in his sleep whilst resting after playing tennis. Last year due to COVID the TEAM4LUKE weren’t able to raise as much money through their normal fundraisers and asked for help. Oscar, who’s a family friend of the Rutter’s, rose to the challenge and did a mile a day for 10 days during the summer holidays whilst asking for sponsorship.

THE TEAMS PRIME OBJECTIVE IS TO BRING ATTENTION TO THE RISKS OF CARDIAC ISSUES IN THE YOUNG AND PROMOTE STANDARD HEART SCANS FOR 14-35 YR OLDS do a marathon and I said: “You can’t do a marathon in one go it takes months of hard training!” So it was his idea to do a mile a day for 26 days (1.2 on the last one to make it a proper marathon!)” Oscar started his marathon on 1st August and finished with all of his football team joining him, on 26th August, cheered on

by Jill and Al and some of the Team4Luke cycling team. Oscar has raised over £1300 completing his marathon in all sorts of weather and in various locations over the holidays. Ryan Riley who plays for Squires Gate FC ran it with him twice and helped Oscar get a PB of 6minutes 46seconds on day 24! Steph added: “Oscar has had sponsors from far and wide, with the main aim of increasing awareness of a charity that many people won’t know about. Oscar has just gone into year 6 at Lytham CofE School as their Head Boy. We are all very proud of how he spent his summer.” TEAM4LUKE were formed in 2011 in memory of Luke.The teams prime objective is to bring attention to the risks of cardiac issues in the young and promote standard heart scans for 14-35yr olds. They fundraise on behalf of CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young) who’s aim is to raise awareness whilst campaigning for standardised testing and screening for young people. n

Luke’s fundraising page is open until the end of October at: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ fundraiser-display/showROSomeoneSpecial Page?pageUrl=LukeRutter1

WE ARE RECRUITING DELIVERY PEOPLE

HOPING TO TAKE BACK OUR BEAUTIFUL GAME LOCAL FOOTBALL AWAY FROM BIG MONEY

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LANCASHIRE WOMEN THE CHARITY THAT’S SUPPORTING LOCAL PROFESSIONAL WOMEN WITH THE TOLL OF COVID IT’S TIME TO SHOW UP, WISE UP AND RISE UP MEET THE QUEEN BEE

I S S U E

GO ON A LOCAL SAFARI TAKE UP BIRDING

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Live Magazines need enthusiastic and reliable delivery people to join our established teams across Preston & Fylde. These opportunities are ideally suited to distributors working independently across two or three areas. To do this you’ll need to be physically fit, have access to your own transport and have somewhere to store the magazines.

WE ARE CURRENTLY LOOKING FOR DELIVERY PEOPLE IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS:

Lytham & New Longton Please contact Liz Walmsley for further information. liz.walmsley@live-magazines.co.uk

Thinking about fostering? There are over 2,000 children in care across Lancashire Become a foster carer to a child in care in your area To find out more about becoming a foster carer, call us on:

under STYLISH LYTHAM APARTMENT

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under Stylish Lytham Apartment

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LIVING WITH COVID AS THE NEW NORMAL

For many of us, the easing of lockdown restrictions this summer brought longed-for opportunities – to see friends, play sports, resume contact with family in ‘real space’ or get back to work that we value

ust as it took us time to find ways of coping during lockdown, we should also expect that it will take time to find our way back, and to reconnect with life. There are many who are very concerned about the prospect of ‘living with Covid’ and being out of lockdown when debate is still live about the science supporting it. Finding routines, staying connected, eating well, and taking exercise apply just as much now as they did at the start of lockdown – arguably even more so as we remain in a period of high stress but with more demands on us.

Recognising that you need to go at the right pace for you. Don’t let others bully or pressure you into doing things you don’t want to – but try not to let that be an excuse not to push yourself, especially when it comes to reconnecting with friends safely and the time is also right for you.

EVEN IF GOVERNMENT ADVICE IS TO NO LONGER SOCIALLY DISTANCE, OR TO WEAR A MASK, YOU CAN DECIDE ON WHAT SUITS YOU BEST It can be hard to let others move forward without you – maybe your child wants to see friends or needs to return to work, but you can’t. It’s important to discuss concerns with those close to you, but also to allow other people space to move at their own pace. Now its possible to have a social life again some of us are desperate to do so – but others are still nervous about doing so and going back into clubs and public, crowded

spaces – or unable to do so because of their situations. If you are part of a social group doing an activity together, try and plan ways for people who aren’t ready for face to face meetings to still take part.

We may have become comfortable in our own space and with our own company in lockdown – it’s been intense in all sorts of ways and we might really have to push ourselves to reconnect with people and overcome initial awkwardness. Whether it’s feeling uncomfortable not wearing a mask anymore, or feeling odd to suddenly see people in large groups again, take things at your own pace. Even if government advice is to no longer socially distance, or to wear a mask, you can decide on what suits you best. That also goes for our children’s friendships – many children have been desperate to see friends, but all families are making sense of the changes. Going back to school will bring new pressures and it’s important to make an extra effort to support our children getting back into the school routine and picking up friendships. n

lifestyle

INHERITANCE CLAIMS AND HOW TO MANAGE THEM John Lambe from Forbes Solicitors offers his advice on the rise in claims against estates and how to manage them

hen someone dies those left behind often have a strong desire to seek expert legal advice and support to decide whether to bring or to defend a claim against the estate. Disputes concerning the administration or the distribution of trust funds or a deceased person’s estate are increasing. Reasons for this include: • The increase in property prices over recent years mean that estates are worth more than they ever have been historically. With more money at stake, the chances of a dispute are higher as more people are willing to challenge each other over the family assets. • People are now living longer, and this increase in life expectancy means that wills are being made and changed later in life. Doing this at an older age could lead to concerns that the testator might not have had the mental capacity to make their will, been the victim of undue influence or not known and approved of the contents of their will.

• Family life is becoming increasingly more complex than it has been previously. Second marriages and relationships have led to more diverse family set-ups. For example, a second spouse and children from a previous marriage are both likely to expect to benefit from a will, even extended families who live away and don’t have much contact with the testator. • A greater expectation of being the beneficiary of an inheritance coupled with the economic climate means that relatives and dependants can feel disappointed with what they have inherited. Added to this is the increased cost of living and the reliance upon the bank of mum and dad.

TYPES OF CLAIM

The most common disputes involve arguments about the validity of a will or claims for financial provision under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependents) Act 1975 to be made for persons who were excluded as beneficiaries or who did not receive as much as they had expected. Other claims concern disputes about how an estate or a trust is being administered.

Unless handled delicately, inheritance disputes can become drawn out affairs. That is why our priority is to drive disputes to a resolution as soon as possible and ideally without recourse to litigation. Often this is achieved via mediation were as your solicitor we can act as the negotiator will all the parties involved. With our approach, many cases are settled out of court, usually in under 12 months. We undertake complex and high value cases. We represent both claimants and defendants. This can be a very complicated area. Our team has real expertise.You can therefore be assured that you will receive the best quality expert advice and service. Nobody likes disputes, but the truth is they are part of life and at times are unavoidable. Do not be put off by concerns about costs. We offer a free, no obligation initial conversation. Thereafter, we try to be as flexible as possible when it comes to funding. We can discuss a range of price and payment options and often work on a no win, no fee basis. Do not put off having a conversation. We would be pleased to hear from you. n

HOW CAN WE HELP?

Forbes are a nationally recognised law firm with a specialist team of solicitors who have a proven track record of successfully concluding all manner of contentious probate issues quickly and cost-effectively.

If you have an issue you would like to discuss, contact John Lambe, Senior Associate by email: john.lambe@forbessolicitors.co.uk or call 0333 207 1130

WHATEVER THE MOMENT, WE’RE IN IT

forbessolicitors.co.uk

01254 580 000

Offices in Accrington, Central Lancashire, Leeds, Manchester and Preston.

how and when you would like to sell them. They can purchase items from the customer or they can sell them directly through the auction. House clearances are another big area for Lancashire Auction House, where Mark will visit the property, discuss and quote for clearing whole or part clearances. Any items that can be auctioned will then be deducted from the quote, helping cover the cost of clearing the house and in some cases making a tidy profit for the client.

WE’RE PLANNING TO EXPAND OUR LIVE AUCTIONS OVER THE COMING MONTHS AS THERE IS A GROWING DEMAND FOR THEM Live auctions currently take place on a Monday evening, where clients can bid for goods on the phone, online or

GOING, GOING… GONE! From vintage toys to military memorabilia, house clearances to classic cars, if you have something that you want to sell, the team at Lancashire Auction House are the go-to people to help you out, writes Meena McDonald. Photography: Andrew Tighe

t’s not unusual for people to have items that are no longer of interest to them which just sit at home gathering dust. Instead, why don’t you auction them and make some money from them? Lancashire Auction House would be delighted to take them off your hands, in particular vintage toys, militaria, jewellery and antiques.

Established in 2018 by husband and wife team Mark and Sue Galbraith, the business has expanded rapidly over the past few years. They take great pride in the items they auction which include period furniture, vintage collectables, classic cars, motorbikes and religious memorabilia. The expert team will be delighted to help you value your items and establish

at the welcoming Lancashire Auction House premises at Rawtenstall, where refreshments will also be available. Online auctions are ongoing via easyliveauction.com and clients can bid for a wide range of unusual items via their secure online site. Sue commented: “We find clients really enjoy coming into the auction house where they can browse the many unique items we have on display. They often end up purchasing many more products than they’d originally anticipated! We’re planning to expand our live auctions over the coming months as there is a growing demand for them.”

lifestyle Clients of the Lancashire Auction House range from early 20s right through to pensioners and include collectors, traders and the general public, many of whom have become regular clients. Some are looking to refurbish their homes with distinct and interesting items so the auction house is ideal for them.

SOME ARE LOOKING TO REFURBISH THEIR HOMES WITH DISTINCT AND INTERESTING ITEMS SO THE AUCTION HOUSE IS IDEAL FOR THEM Having set up secure online trading facilities before lockdown, Lancashire Auction House was able to continue trading online via easyliveauction.com during this period. Many other organisations in the area unfortunately were not able to do this, so Mark and Sue helped numerous local charities selling items for them to raise much-needed cash to get through the challenging times. So, if you’re looking to sell items you no longer require or would like a house cleared, then get in touch with the friendly and knowledgeable team at Lancashire Auction House, who will be delighted to have a chat with you, make you a drink and see how they can help you. n

Lancashire Auction House Unit 5 Brookside Business Park Burnley Road, Rawtenstall BB4 8LP 01706 213333 07538 141436 mark@lancashireauctionhouse.co.uk lancashireauctionhouse.co.uk

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TAKE CONTROL

OF YOUR MENTAL HEALTH Mental health distress is up almost 10 per cent. According to a UK Government study by GOV UK. the average mental health distress was 8.1 per cent higher in April 2020 than it was between 2017 and 2019. But for anyone struggling with their mental health and wellbeing, it’s important to know you are not alone

reathe Therapies in Preston offers a wide variety of holistic treatments and therapies to cater for each individuals needs, such as Clinical Psychology, Psychotherapy, Emotional Freedom Technique, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dietetics, Art Psychotherapy, Specialist Mental Health Nursing and much more. Shelley, Founder and Clinical Director of Breathe explains: “The importance of early intervention in mental health is really key to mental health not deteriorating – all the research says intervene early, don’t wait, if you’re struggling get some

01772 915735

professional help early.” With the NHS often having a six to nine month wait for mental health treatment, Breathe provides a personal service of support with no waiting lists to help people get their life back on track as quickly as possible.

Breathe offers needs led and person centric services. They look at what individuals need and develop a bespoke treatment plan. Shelley stresses: “If you’re struggling, remember you’re not alone in your journey and there is professional support available and accessible.We’re here to help and we’re happy to help” If you need support, don’t wait, contact Breathe Therapies today! n Breathe Therapies & S.E.E.D Lancashire Quayside House, Navigation Way Preston PR2 2YP 01772 915735 breathetherapies.co.uk

lifestyle

Will your partner automatically inherit your wealth if you have no legal partnership? Deciding who should inherit and how best to transfer your wealth is rarely simple. Family dynamics are often highly complicated. You and your spouse or civil partner might have different views on how, or even if, any of your respective relatives should inherit your wealth. Whatever your goals, getting financial advice will help you pass on your money in a way, and at a time, that creates maximum benefit for the people that matter to you most.

Estate Planning

KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY… Give your family the best chance at preserving wealth from one generation to the next, advises Alastair Brown of Raymond James more active lives in retirement, the age at which the next generation will eventually benefit and how tax efficiently the wealth is transferred can be a real headache. Whether your motivation is to support your relatives, protect vulnerable family members or to leave a legacy, passing on your wealth is a highly emotive and potentially complicated topic.

Ensuring the tax man isn’t your largest beneficiary

s gloomy as it might sound, death and taxes are often described as the only two certainties in life, and inheritance tax (IHT) means they can turn up at the same time. *Almost £5.4 billion was paid in inheritance tax in 2018/19 – a record high. With people living longer and enjoying

What is Inheritance Tax (IHT)? Will you have an IHT liability? Can you reduce it? What can you give away in your lifetime? More and more people are likely to be impacted by Inheritance Tax. However, paying Inheritance Tax doesn’t have to be inevitable. In many cases this most unpopular of taxes can be minimised using allowances or exemptions, or potentially be avoided altogether with careful planning.

Getting all your affairs in order, from deciding who should inherit your wealth to making provisions for vulnerable family members, can be an extensive but invaluable process. Known as Estate Planning, it ensures you eliminate uncertainty over the administration of your assets and aims to maximise the value of your estate by reducing or eliminating taxes and other expenses. From setting up trusts to mitigating Inheritance Tax, Estate Planning should also consider your needs in later life, including the potential cost of longterm care.

Could we help save you and your loved ones thousands? Ready to have a conversation? Give us a call and we’ll help you understand whether IHT is likely to impact you, and whether you could take action to reduce it. If it looks like we can help you keep more money in the family, we’ll book your free, no obligation initial consultation with one of our in-house specialists. n *Source: https://www.statista.com/statistics/284325/ united-kingdom-hmrc-tax-receipts-inheritance-tax/ Published by D. Clark, Apr 29, 2021

Risk Warning: Opinions constitute our judgement as of this date and are subject to change without warning. With investing, your capital is at risk

How, when and to whom should I transfer my wealth? When is the best time to give money away? If you have children should they be treated equally? Who do you leave your money to if you have no immediate family?

Raymond James 8 Berry Lane, Longridge, Preston PR3 3JA 01772 780300 ribblevalley.raymondjames.uk.com

weddings The wedding of my cousin to her beloved fiancé did go ahead. There was no cap on numbers, no social distancing, no miserable insistence of masks. The sun shone, we danced, we ate and drank, we celebrated, and it was wonderful! It was a ‘proper wedding’ and a day my family will never forget. The bride and groom had had their wedding day cancelled twice before, their hen and stag parties had been paired back but they held their nerve as their big day approached for a third time and pulled off a huge celebration of love with family and friends. The bride wore a traditional dress that echoed Grace Kelly on her wedding day. It was a dress that didn’t compromise. I was lucky enough to be part of the bridal party with my daughters and my nieces. They looked absolutely beautiful (of course I’m biased) and took their role on the day and in the preparation before, extremely seriously. At the wedding emotion was magnified and many struggled to hold it together. One of the lessons of the pandemic has been the importance of family and friends in our lives, and of telling people how much you love them while they are still here. Those at this celebration seemed to have taken it to heart. People were out to have a good time. The subsequent euphoria I felt on the dancefloor was like being high. There were precious few multigenerational social events before the pandemic, and

WEDDINGS ARE BACK

AND THEY HAVE BEEN WORTH THE WAIT The speeches, the tears, the jokes, the dad dancing are all back and after months of missing out on social events its all wonderful writes Helen Sanderson

went to a wedding in the summer. That shouldn’t be a remarkable statement, but of course it is. It’s been another strange summer and we waited with baited breath whilst the lockdown rules changed time and time again to see if this wedding would go ahead, at last.

THE SUN SHONE, WE DANCED, WE ATE AND DRANK, WE CELEBRATED; AND IT WAS WONDERFUL!

I’ve always loved the inclusivity of the wedding disco, the grandmas dancing alongside the teenagers, the toddlers held high in the air and the dad dancing. These days it feels even more meaningful, because we’ve spent months apart. To dance and laugh and drink together was awesome. Weddings are back and after months feeing like I’ve been in some sort of weird scientific experiment, they feel better than ever. Of course this wedding was particularly meaningful because of the love I feel for the bride, my cousin. I hope if you are planning a wedding or attending one soon, that it’s filled with as much love as this one. n

Truly one of the most magical wedding venues in the UK. Nestled within 1000-acres of historic Ribble Valley countryside, Gisburne Park Estate is one of Lancashire's finest private estates. We are now offering a lucky few the opportunity to create the wedding of their dreams. There is no simply other venue like this in the U.K.

STUNNING HERITAGE MEETS MODERN LUXURY Benefitting from the bold decision to commit to a multi-million pound refurbishment in lockdown means couples are discovering many delights to say “I do” to at the sumptuous Mercure Blackburn Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa. Kate Bowyer has coffee, cake and conversation with events manager Karen Gettins

he lifting of all social distancing restrictions on weddings and civil partnerships in England this summer was surely greeted with a shower of confetti and popping of champagne corks across the country. However, it has left many couples with vows but no venue. With lockdown’s financial turmoil forcing some venues to close, and a large rescheduling backlog seeing some smaller ones booked up until 2023, the renaissance of heritage wedding venue Mercure Blackburn Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa is putting the icing back on the cake for many. “Lockdown was not great timing,”

reflects Karen. “In the middle of a major refurbishment, everything just stopped. We were worried, not just for the future of the hotel, but our couples, guests, staff, suppliers and building contractors.

IT’S THE PERFECT BACKDROP FOR PHOTOGRAPHS, AND WHEN A BRIDE STEPS DOWN IT, SHE REALLY FEELS LIKE A PRINCESS “Call it a leap of faith, but we were determined to continue, whenever that might be. This hotel is blessed with unique heritage, history and support, and we

were so close to realising our vision of its incredible future. By investing, it felt like we were making a positive commitment to all the people who find it such a special place to visit, stay at, and mark their significant life occasions with us.” It’s easy to see why, set in 17 acres of idyllic Lancashire parkland at the end of a tree-lined driveway, the magnificent 12th-century manor house, bedecked with fairy-tale turrets and porticos, makes a spectacular first impression. The authentic manorial courtyard, sweeping lawns and secluded garden, together with stately fountain, provides the perfect catch-yourbreath backdrop for guest arrivals, bridal processions, ceremonies and photographs. Inside is equally impressive, with high ceilings, stylish furnishings and historic features abounding. Mullioned windows frame charming views over the grounds and surrounding countryside from every aspect. And then there’s the incredible 18th century staircase.

weddings

As Karen says: “It really takes your breath away, people describe it as something out of a film set or Camelot! Its oak balustrades sweep the triple-height hall on both sides, before meeting in the middle. It’s the perfect backdrop for photographs, and when a bride steps down it, she really feels like a princess. “As soon as restrictions allowed, the refit was back on, with no compromise on time or quality. We themed the fresh, distinctive décor to complement the grandeur of the historic building. By retaining and highlighting the stunning original features while subtly incorporating the best of 21st-century comfort and convenience, we feel we’ve lifted it to the heights that our local community and guests deserve.”

And Karen and the team’s hard work and immaculate attention to detail has certainly paid off. Investing £4.5 million in the extensive refurbishment, every single room, from bedroom to bar and restaurant to reception is stunningly finished and furnished to match. In perfect time for the full lifting of restrictions, the Mercure’s extensive facilities enable Karen and her team to offer wedding and celebration packages to suit every scale and sensibility. “This has been the most exciting thing,” adds Karen. “Seeing people say ‘yes, that’s perfect!’ when we help them realise what they’ve been dreaming about, especially those who’ve had to wait. With restrictions lifted, some couples are desperate to gather everyone they love together and yes, really let their hair down! “They adore the largest of the hotel’s distinguished banqueting suites, the Pendle, which can accommodate over 300 people! Of true ballroom dimensions, it boasts a huge dance floor and stage, setting the scene for a party to remember. “Couples who, understandably, feel more comfortable with a smaller, intimate celebration fall in love with our Towneley Suite. Windows on three sides flood it with natural light, and its private bar leads onto lawns that are perfect for reception drinks and photographs. The silver lining from Covid

INVESTING £4.5 MILLION IN THE EXTENSIVE REFURBISHMENT, EVERY SINGLE ROOM, FROM BEDROOM TO BAR AND RESTAURANT TO RECEPTION IS STUNNINGLY FINISHED AND FURNISHED TO MATCH

means we have focussed on the small details – we’ve hosted weddings for under fifteen guests, and they have been some of the most memorable and moving I’ve been involved in.” Whatever couples choose for their wedding, civil partnership, or renewal of vows, Karen and her team seamlessly achieve the perfect balance of making everyone feel relaxed and secure without imposing restrictions. And because the hotel boasts every amenity, including top chefs and 175 bedrooms, everything – from the bride’s entrance to the elegant breakfast, and throwing the bouquet to heading for bed – is joyously under one roof. And if guests feel the need to work off that some of that amazing cuisine – or just indulge in a little post-celebration pampering – the hotel spa offers a full range of professional Décleor treatments, an impressive heated indoor pool and modern fitness centre. I suspect the only hard part will be having to leave. n

Mercure Blackburn Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa Blackburn Road, Clayton-le-Moors Blackburn BB5 5JP 01254 303400

DREAM WEDDING VENUES

SUNDAY 3RD OCTOBER 12noon-4pm PHOTOGRAPHERS: Sarah Glynn, Mike Plunkett, Beth Alderson, Alexandra Holt, Folega Photography, Mark Tattersall, Nick English, Project Valentine, Kerry Woods & Paige Hargreaves

Dream Wedding Fairs

Join us as we open our doors to a collection of truly unique wedding venues. Classic country inns to gorgeous stately homes and manor houses... and a simply astounding contemporary mill conversion. With unrivalled experience and expertise and a passionate attention to detail in everything we do, we really can make your wedding dreams come true.

JAMESPLACES .COM/ WEDDINGS SUNDAY 10TH OCTOBER 12noon-4pm

Mens Ansbro tan brogue £165 LANX Unit 25 Mitton Road Business Park Mitton Road Whalley BB7 9YE lanxshoes.com

Paul Smith tailored fit suit £850 Nigel Clare 10-14 High Street Chorley PR7 1DN 01257 249040 nigelclare.com

Yaya woven waistcoat £79.95, Yaya black leather boots £199.99, Veni by Ronald Joyce £POA YayaInfantino short blazer £129.95, Flamingo Yaya black jeans £89.95 67Precious Liverpool Road at Whalley Penwortham 33 King Street Preston PR1 9XD Whalley BB7 9SP 01772 01254744277 833620 flamingo-fashion.co.uk preciousatwhalley.co.uk

Whalley bottle green boots £190 Lanx Shoes Unit 25 Mitton Road Business Park Mitton Road Whalley BB7 9YE lanxshoes.com

weddings

process we select every aspect of the suit to complement your physique, accentuate your best features and conceal any flaws. Let your creativity flow and express your individual style as you select every detail your way. From linings and colours of buttonholes to monograms, pockets and lapels exactly as you like them, the result is a suit that is uniquely yours and completely satisfying.

TAILORED TO PERFECTION A bespoke suit is the ultimate indulgence for men and your wedding is the perfect time for this. Make the most of this opportunity to look your very best and invest in something special for yourself at Charles Campbell Bespoke Tailoring in Ribchester

bespoke suit tailored perfectly to you gives you an unparalleled confidence and ensures you stand out from the crowd in effortless style. From initial discussions over a drink to the finished result that is the most flattering and comfortable suit you have ever owned, this is the part of the wedding journey that is all about you. We guide you through the process of designing your perfect wedding suit, so that it matches your personal style and the theme of your day. We take into account

At your first consultation, take the time to choose exactly what you want. You could make an event of it by bringing along key members of the wedding party such as your

all the factors of your wedding, whether it is formal or informal, indoors or out, contemporary or vintage, and the climate of the destination, as well as ensuring it will complement your bride’s outfit. From the cut that will most flatter your physique and the colours that complement your skin tone, to the cloths that will look fantastic and also keep you cool and comfortable, we have the answers. With endless beautiful cloths from which to choose, including worsted wools, tweeds, cottons and cashmeres all from the finest textile mills inYorkshire, Scotland and Italy, we will find the exact weight, shade and finish you are looking for in your ideal suit. Our measuring process takes into account every aspect of your figuration to achieve the perfect fit. In our design and cutting For suits ordered between September 2021 and February 2022 we will make a bespoke wedding shirt for you and your best man absolutely free of charge – simply Quote LP FREE SHIRT when you appoint

best man to help advise, or your best man might want a two piece suit to complement your three piece. Make a statement on your wedding day with the finest bespoke suit you will want to wear again and again for those other special events in life such as christenings, friends’ weddings or days at the races. n With two piece suits starting at £950, we welcome enquiries and would be delighted to arrange an appointment for an initial consultation

Charles Campbell Bespoke Tailoring Suite 9, Manor Court Salesbury Hall, Salesbury Hall Road Ribchester PR3 3XR 01254 367968 07714 758296 info@charlescampbellbespoke.co.uk www.charlescampbellbespoke.co.uk

Photography: Nick English Photography

OUTDOOR WEDDING CEREMONIES: THE NATURAL CHOICE recent addition, the Cart Shed, an intimate

It’s definitely a happy marriage of ‘something old, something new’ venue for smaller, rustic celebrations. Then, of course, came Covid. When at Browsholme Hall, writes Kate Bowyer, who takes a look at restrictions began to lift, recounts Amanda: the hall’s beautiful wedding venues “People started enquiring about outdoor

joined co-owner of Browsholme Hall, Amanda Parker, for a tour around the 16th-century hall’s new romantic garden locations and woodland idylls, which have been created to benefit from the government’s recent extension of marriage licences to outdoor venues. “Before 2020, outdoor weddings were a beautiful rarity,” says Amanda, demonstrating the genuine enthusiasm with which she clearly loves sharing one of England’s longest-occupied family homes with couples and their guests. Browsholme’s ancient Tithe Barn, sympathetically converted into a stone-flagged romantic venue by Amanda and husband Robert in 2009, was already top of many a bride’s wish-list. Others fell for the hall’s silk-draped Regency drawing room, or a

weddings. It made such sense – wellventilated, room to relax, no intrusive masks. We started hosting more receptions outside and it made us look at Browsholme’s beautiful landscapes in a new light.”

PEOPLE STARTED ENQUIRING ABOUT OUTDOOR WEDDINGS. IT MADE SUCH SENSE The transformative moment came in July 2021, permitting licensed venues like Browsholme to hold full weddings or civil partnership services in any suitable outdoor location. Amanda and Robert’s lockdown epiphany has resulted in a veritable bouquet of picturesque outdoor settings, like our first stop, a sheltered Italian

Photography: Alfred & Co Photography

weddings

In contrast, our third stop is pure breath-taking elegance, the hall’s sweeping front lawn having the added bonus of almost no limit on numbers – the perfect way to banish nightmares of whittling the guest list to 30! The pedimented arch adjoining the entrance lodge, built in 1805 as an eye-catcher, would make the perfect backdrop for my imaginary wedding photographs, as would the manorial hall in the other direction – so many choices! These new backdrops join the rustic pavilion crafted from the estate’s own 200-year-old oaks, nestled under flower

Photography: Alfred & Co Photography

BEING IN NATURE TAKES A SIGNIFICANT OCCASION TO A NEW LEVEL, THAT’S DEFINITELY WHAT DISCERNING COUPLES ARE STARTING TO SEEK OUT

Photography: Camilla Lucinda Photography

parterre, set next to the East Wing of the hall. It’s all too easy to imagine the bridal train casting beautiful shadows down the stone steps, framed by low walls, perfect for informal after-ceremony socialising for up to 80 guests. “It is a beautiful spot,” agrees Amanda as I allow myself to be led, reluctantly, onwards. “But this is my current favourite – it changes every week!” She leads me to an Edwardian water garden, charmingly twining in informal pockets around a small pond, hosting 60 guests. “It’s that bit more intimate and relaxed, like a secret hideaway,” confirms Amanda. Enclosed by lush rhododendrons and azaleas, a brook babbles musically in the background. It is pure romance in bloom.

banks in the newly landscaped Lily Pond Garden, and the idyllic Lonesome Pine forest clearing, ideal for that eco-centred, or Tolkien-inspired ceremony. And if the weather turns, I suspect the ever-practical Amanda and her team have it covered? “Literally!” she nods. “Plan B means we have the wonderful Tithe Barn to move an outside ceremony into at very short notice, or many people take advantage of splitting the day part out and part in. Eyes to the forecast, we usually make the final decision the night before, but I have been known to shepherd everyone inside at the last minute! “And the other way round – one day, the weather was so amazing, I persuaded an initially hesitant couple outside. With the gardens in full bloom, it took their moment to a new level. They were over the moon, so glad they had done it, and all the guests agreed. “Being in nature takes a significant

occasion to a new level, I think, and that’s definitely what discerning couples are starting to seek out – the natural backdrop, sounds, scents, softness and drama making it even more magical and unique. People seem more relaxed, and of course have fewer Covid limitations on their special day.” Coming sadly to the end of my ‘borrowed’ time, I can only agree, having already decided my ‘something blue’ should definitely now be ‘something green’. n

Browsholme Hall and Tithe Barn Clitheroe Road, Cow Ark, Clitheroe BB7 3DE 01254 827160 hello@browsholme.com browsholme.com

18CT WHITE GOLD 0.40CT BRILLIANT CUT DIAMOND PENDANT AND CHAIN £1,750 leonarddews.co.uk

18CT WHITE GOLD 0.52CT BRILLIANT CUT STUDS £1,895 Leonard Dews Church Street Blackpool FY1 1EW 01253 754940 leonarddews.co.uk OLIVE BRIDAL EMBELLISHED TULLE MAXI DRESS IVORY £309 monsoon.co.uk

OMEGA MOONWATCH PROFESSIONAL CO-AXIAL MASTER CHRONOMETER CHRONOGRAPH 42MM £6,120 whittlesjewellers.co.uk

CHIC & STYLISH

These chic and stylish wedding accessories will enhance any outfit for that special day 18CT WHITE GOLD 0.76CT TANZANITE AND 0.30CT DIAMOND DRESS RING £2,050 whittlesjewellers.co.uk

MONTBLANC URBAN CUFFLINKS £215 leonarddews.co.uk

18CT WHITEGOLD DIAMOND SET LINE BRACELET 2.22CTS £3,750 Whittles Jewellers Fishergate Preston PR1 2AD 01772 252777 whittlesjewellers.co.uk

DUNE LONDON BELAIRE SILVER £85 dunelondon.com

MRS BEADED HARD CASE CLUTCH BAG £45 accessorize.com/uk While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, all prices and stockists are subject to change.

TAG HEUER AQUARACER 32MM MOTHER OF PEARL DIAMOND DOT DIAL £1,850 whittlesjewellers.co.uk

HATS TO HIRE OR BUY FROM £50 Get Ahead Hats Martholme Farm Martholme Lane Great Harwood BB6 7UJ getaheadhats.co.uk DUNE LONDON BONNZER TAN £100 dunelondon.com

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Discover the outstanding collection of Ladies Wedding Outfits & Occasion Wear at Flamingo

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Aldo Martins • Betty Barclay • Caroline Biss • Chiara Boni • Condici • Darcie Mae • Ella Boo Fely Campo • Frank Lyman • Gina Bacconi • In Style by Ian Stuart • Irresistible • Ispirato Joseph Ribkoff • Lizabella • Luis Civit • Marc Cain • NYDJ Jeans • Oui • Passioni • Robell Taifun • Teresa Ripoll • Tia • Tuzzi • Veni Infantino by Ronald Joyce and many more. Fabulous hats, fascinators and accessories to complement your outfit. Add the finishing touches with the perfect shoes and bag with our exclusive Italian bespoke shoe service. As usual, we welcome walk-ins to our fabulous ground floor collections. Our Upper Floor Occasion Wear is by APPOINTMENT ONLY. Please contact us and we’ll make the timing work for you.

Tel: 01772 744277 | www.flamingo-fashion.co.uk | 67 Liverpool Rd, Penwortham, Preston PR1 9XD

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19/08/2021 20:20

education

BACK TO SCHOOL Y T E I X N A How to help kids manage worries and have a successful start to the school year

r Busman, a child psychologist, explains that although the start of the new school year is exciting for most kids, it also prompts a spike in anxiety. Even children who are usually pretty easy-going get butterflies and those prone to anxiety get clingier and more nervous than usual. Parents feel the pain too. Leaving a crying child at preschool isn’t anyone’s idea of fun. Children are very resilient but the past two school years have been very disruptive for them so any child could feel anxious and unsure about going back after the holidays. For most children the new-school-year worries will fade and the anxious behaviours will be transient. The goal for parents is to be supportive without exacerbating your child’s worries. The start of the year can also be anxiety inducing for parents. The pressure’s on for you to reinstate routines after the summer break and arrange for new activities and schedules, not to speak of facing the resumption of homework.

Dr Busman recommends taking your own temperature, to make sure you’re not passing on stress to your kids. And to enable you to manage your own stress, she says: “It’s important not to take on more commitments than the family can handle comfortably.”

RATHER THAN DISMISSING THESE FEARS, LISTENING TO THEM AND ACKNOWLEDGING YOUR CHILD’S FEELINGS WILL HELP THEM FEEL MORE SECURE When your child expresses anxiety about going back to school – a new teacher, increases in homework, making a team, a friend crisis – do listen seriously. Rather than dismissing these fears (‘Nothing to be worried about!’ ‘You’ll be fine!’) listening to them and acknowledging your child’s feelings will help them feel more secure.

And if they want to, you can bolster their confidence by helping them strategise about how to handle things they are concerned about. But keep in mind that kids often want to be able to talk about something they’re upset about without expecting you to fix them. Your job is to validate their feelings (‘I know that it’s hard’) and demonstrate confidence that they can handle the situation. Check in with your child in a more casual way. “It doesn’t have to be a half-hour discussion,” says Dr Busman, “but in the car on the way to get a new backpack, you might ask: Do you know what you’re going to be learning in maths this year? Children often say more when there is less pressure to have a talk.” Schools are back and in the most its business as usual which means that they are all hosting open days. Please contact your local schools or check on their websites to find out when their open events will be. n

All

that they can be. A SPRINGBOARD TO A LIFE OF PURPOSE A leading Catholic co-educational boarding and day school in the Ribble Valley for pupils aged 3-18 years, with full and weekly boarding options available.

2021 | Open days Sixth Form Open Evening | 23rd September Prep School Open Day | 9th October College Open Day | 6th November

Scholarship sittings start in November 2021 DISCOVER MORE AT: WWW.STONYHURST.AC.UK

The astounding exam results achieved by GCSE and A level students at Westholme certainly highlight the academic rigour of the school

ith a remarkable 85 per cent of GCSE students achieving Grade 7 and above, and 90 per cent of A level students gaining a Grade B and above, Westholme sits proudly alongside the most successful schools in Lancashire. The results underpin the educational brilliance of the school which supports students to achieve their academic potential by providing a nurturing and holistic environment. Dr Richard Robson, Principal at Westholme School is thrilled with his

EXAM RESULTS PROVE ACADEMIC RIGOUR students’ achievements and commented: “This is an amazing academic accomplishment for Westholme! The results are phenomenal right across the whole year group. With 81 per cent of students gaining a Grade 8 or above, and 75 per cent receiving at least one Grade 9, our GCSE triumph is testament to the true Westholme spirit.”

The Westholme journey

The journey students undertake whilst at Westholme is an unrivalled holistic experience unique to the school, delivering the key skills employers are looking for in young people, such as communication, teamwork, leadership and problem solving. The school takes a triple strand approach to educating its students. Firstly, delivering a warm and friendly environment to help build a strong community where each

education

student has a profound sense of belonging. Secondly, providing the academic rigour every student expects to enable them to deliver exceptional exam results and achieve their highest potential. Finally, offering a holistic approach where students can acquire the essential skills required for the 21st century by tapping into the extensive range of activities available at the school.

THE RESULTS UNDERPIN THE EDUCATIONAL BRILLIANCE OF THE SCHOOL WHICH SUPPORTS STUDENTS TO ACHIEVE THEIR ACADEMIC POTENTIAL This distinctive approach builds confidence in students and encourages them to participate in class activities, ask questions during lessons and challenge their peers, helping establish independent individuals who believe in themselves and what they are capable of. At Westholme, there really isn’t an ‘us and them’ with students and teachers, they are all part of one team aiming for the same goal – unrivalled success. Most of the successful GCSE students will progress straight into the INSPIRED Sixth Form at Westholme, which has more than doubled its intake this year.

completed at the end of Year 10 and he achieved a Grade 9 in each. He completed the rest of his GCSEs in Year 11, along with Year 1 of the Maths A Level courses and completing the full Computer Science A Level course in a single year.”

Outstanding A Level results

The Year 13 students in the Sixth Form also achieved their best ever A Level results this year and smashed all previous school records with 90 per cent of students achieving at least two B grades or above. Dr Robson continued: “Sixty eight per cent of our ‘lockdown’ graduates leave Westholme with at least one Grade A or above, and they depart, destination ready, with so much more than outstanding academic results. Their journey through the Sixth Form has prepared them for the next chapter in their lives as well-rounded young people. With a quarter of our A Level students achieving a clean sweep of all A/A* grades, they have smashed the school records!” The grades this year were allocated through a meticulous and robust process, ensuring evidence submitted was thoroughly moderated and validated internally and then externally by examination boards.

Tremendous career paths

Students leaving the Sixth Form are going on to pursue some tremendous career paths. A handful of examples include:

Eloïse who achieved four A* grades in Classics, French, Spanish, and English Literature and is going to read English Literature and French at St Hugh’s College, Oxford University. Departing Head Boy Yusuf and fellow student Amaan who have accepted prestigious degree apprenticeships with Jaguar Land Rover and Coca-Cola,respectively. Anna who achieved three A*s and is going on to study Medicine and Surgery at Newcastle University. One student commented: “The one-to-one support of staff is invaluable and I know without the support, encouragement and guidance of Westholme, I would not be as ready or as confident to go out into the wider world and make my mark on society.” Parents are equally delighted with the academic achievements,with one commenting: “Our son has done really well in the UKMT maths challenges each year and achieved several gold awards in this. He’s also taken several GCSEs early, all of which were

So, whether you’re looking to go to Oxford or Cambridge or indeed any of the Russell Group universities, to study drama, music, art or sport at specialist institutions, or be selected for the coveted degree apprenticeships with blue chip organisations, Westholme is most certainly the school for you! n

Westholme Wilmar Lodge, Meins Road Pleasington BB2 6QU 01254 506070 westholmeschool.com

EDUCATIONN E W S GCSE RESULTS The Stonyhurst College standard was flying high to celebrate GCSE results and the achievements of the Syntax class of 2021. Highlights included 28 per cent of pupils achieving Grade 9, 46 per cent Grades 9-8, 65 per cent Grades 9-7 and 98 per cent Grades 9-4. John Browne, Headmaster of Stonyhurst, said: “Syntax pupils have shown amazing mutual support and optimism and like so many pupils in the UK deserve every success with their GCSEs.”

OAK MAGAZINE PUBLISHES AGAIN Under the editorship of Owen in Year 10, the second edition of Oakhill’s history magazine, Oak Magazine has been published. Students from years 7, 8 and 10 have researched and written articles and Owen has worked in Adobe Indesign to produce the magazine. There are a range of articles from the Berlin Wall to Stonehenge. Students have worked extremely hard to deliver the magazine, beginning in Lockdown in the spring. Well done to everyone involved.

SAVING THE BEES Year 5 at Oakhill are proudly showing off their fabulous bee garden designs which they have been working hard on this half term. They have all entered the Radio 2 Design a Bee Garden Competition and have had lots of fun deciding what to include. Lots of research into what bees need and like has helped them put their ideas into practice whilst also thinking about the human visitors that the garden will be used for.

FACE TO FACE TEACHING TO RESUME UCLan is prepared to make the student experience as authentic as possible for new and returning students this new academic year. A number of safety measures have been introduced on campus, in line with Covid-19 guidelines. During the last semester of the

CELEBRATING THE END OF AN ERA Oakhill’s Leavers Meal was this year held at Mitton Hall. After enjoying a beautiful meal, Head Girl Emilie-Anne and Head Boy Ben, thanked the staff and spoke about how they are so grateful to have been part of the Oakhill family. Principal, Mrs Buttery spoke about each pupil’s personality and how they had blossomed during their time at Oakhill, and of course showed the obligatory baby photo! The Oakhill team are incredibly proud of their pupils and it really was an evening to remember.

2019/20 academic year, teaching was moved online as Covid-19 measures came into force. This semester teaching will be a mixture of face-to-face and online learning, with the campus open seven days a week to allow for more flexible timetabling.

PRAISE FOR STUDENTS RECORDS SMASHED Students and staff at Blackburn College AT WESTHOLME celebrated as students collected their A-Level and BTEC results with the numbers of Blackburn College students achieving high grades continuing to improve. Students achieved 100 per cent A-Level pass rate in science subjects including maths, further maths, biology, physics and in other popular A-Level student choices including accounting, law and psychology with 41.4 per cent graded A* to B in a year when students have had to contend with periods of home and remote learning.

It was a superb day for academic accolades at Westholme School with amazing results that surpassed previous school records. The results are a testament to the resilience of the fantastic students with 90 per cent of students achieving at least 2 B grades or above at A-Level. At GCSE, a remarkable 85 per cent achieved grade 7 and above and this is a phenomenal achievement right across the whole year group. This GCSE triumph is a reflection of the true Westholme spirit.

Realising Potential With consistently high examination results, outstanding inspection reports, excellent extra-curricular opportunities and incredible facilities, our friendly independent day school (0-7 co-ed, 7-18 single sex) will enable your child to realise their potential.

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EDUCATIONN E W S SCIENCE FESTIVAL RETURNS

PRESTON TOP FOR GRADUATES

SUPPORTING NASA TO INVESTIGATE THE SUN

The award-winning Lancashire Science Festival is returning. After last year’s event was cancelled due to Covid-19, the UCLan will host the free one-day extravaganza on Saturday 23rd October. Taking place between 10am and 4pm on UCLan’s Preston Campus, families will experience the fun and real-world applications of science, technology, engineering, maths and health with the aim of enthusing and inspiring the next generation.

Preston has been revealed as one of the best UK cities for graduates. From job opportunities, to the average salary, a new index by comparethemarket.com reveals the best UK cities for graduates. Preston is the third best city for graduates. To help those who are currently looking for roles following their recent graduation, comparethemarket.com has created the ultimate graduate index, analysing important factors such as job adverts, salaries, monthly rent prices, basic utilities, and the cost of a beer.

A team from UCLan has joined NASA to probe the mysteries of the Sun’s atmosphere. Physicists and engineers from the university teamed up with NASA on a suborbital flight to gather new information on the workings of the Sun. The project saw researchers successfully launch an X-ray solar imager on a brief but potentially illuminating suborbital flight via sounding rocket to gather new insight on how and why the Sun’s corona grows so much hotter than the surface of Earth’s parent star.

GRADUATION CELEBRATIONS RETURN

INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE & A-LEVELS

COLLEGE TO UNDERGO REFURB

Upcoming ceremonies will take place over two weeks with post-event celebrations on the new University Square. Thousands of students are returning to the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) for their long-awaited graduation ceremonies. Graduates from the classes of summer 2020, winter 2020 and summer 2021 will don their academic caps and gowns at 26 ceremonies taking place between in September. As in recent years, the graduates will take to the stage in the Sir Tom Finney Sports Centre, on the Preston Campus, but the post-event celebrations with family and friends will take place on the new multi-million pound University Square.

Stonyhurst’s 2021 International Baccalaureate (IB) results saw a 100 per cent Diploma Programme pass rate compared to a world average of 85 per cent. Stonyhurst’s top scorer achieved the maximum 45 points placing them in the top 0.5 per cent of candidates worldwide – equivalent to 4A* at A-Level. A-Level highlights saw a 99 per cent overall pass rate with 55 per cent of all candidates receiving all A*- A grades and 81 per cent of all candidates receiving A*- B grades. John Browne, Headmaster, said: “Many congratulations to all Rhetoric pupils on their achievements. There are many stories of extraordinary endeavour and determination behind these amazing grades.”

A major refurbishment of Preston College’s construction department is set to get underway, heralding the start of an exciting new chapter for its staff and learners. Frank Whittle Partnership (FWP) is leading the project which will support the introduction of new Professional Construction T-Level courses. Preston College is one of almost 50 Further Education establishments sharing a £48.5m pot from the Department for Education to fund refurbishments in advance of the new courses. FWP’s design work includes remodelling the building, with the creation of a bright, modern exterior and a new mezzanine level for the delivery of the T-Level courses.

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NEW PRE-PREP AND NURSERY Amanda Owen, the Yorkshire Shepherdess, recently opened Rossall School’s state-of-the-art new Pre-Prep and Nursery provision

ith the highest pupil roll in the school’s history, Rossall has opened a fantastic Nursery and Pre-Prep to cope with the unprecedented surge in demand. The stunning new facilities have been designed by Rossall School’s own Head of Design and Technology, Lee Hodgetts and students in the Senior School have also contributed. The original building was constructed in the early 1990s but burgeoning numbers meant that a radical redesign was needed to ensure bright contemporary learning spaces reflective of the school’s commitment to inquiry-led learning. The striking design of the interior embraces much of the latest thinking in terms of classroom design. The provision of a technologically enriched environment is complemented by the free flow of spaces that exploit the beautiful natural landscape within which the building is situated. Headmaster, Jeremy Quartermain states: “Our ambition was to design a building that would provide young children with a wonderful space within which to learn and play. “Lee’s creative response to the brief has resulted in the creation of a building that undoubtedly has the ‘wow’ factor. Most

importantly our pupils and their parents have fallen in love with its many unique features such as the bespoke purpose-built play equipment. “Rossall is an incredible community and today marks the summation of so much hard work and dedication on the part of our staff. Throughout lockdown, our support staff have been our absolute heroes, and this building provides a tangible expression of their love and dedication to our community. In particular, I should thank Andy Edwards for his spectacular creations.” The Nursery, which now includes a Baby Room, currently has a waiting list and regularly receives rave reviews across a range of media platforms. 2021 will see a record number of pupils enter the school’s Reception Class. Parents are drawn to the wonderful environment which includes Graeme’s Garden – a school petting farm – and a beach school and forest school. The

emphasis upon wellbeing and the provision of a holistic curriculum is reflected in every aspect of the building. It is clear that the provision has resonated very well with current parents. One parent commented: “The staff in the Nursery and Pre-Prep have always been amazing but these new facilities provide such an excellent environment. The variety of activities means we are confident that Rossall is providing the best possible start in life for our children.” Opening the facility, the ‘Yorkshire Shepherdess’, Amanda Owen said she was honoured and enjoyed meeting the children in the Pre-Prep School. Amanda presented prizes at the Prep School Prize Day and her observations on childhood resonated with much of the philosophy underpinning the curriculum in the Prep School.

Rossall School has enjoyed a bumper year which has been capped by outstanding academic results in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and being shortlisted twice in the Independent School of the Year Awards. Prep School Headmaster, Matt Turner concludes: “The strength of our provision, coupled with our staff, is why we are viewed as the nursery and school first choice across the Fylde and Lancashire.” n For a private tour contact Lisa Rhodes, Prep School and Nursery Registrar on: l.rhodes@rossall.org.uk

Rossall School Broadway, Fleetwood FY7 8JW 01253 774201 rossall.org.uk

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ani breezed into the room confident, sassy and fabulous. As a hardworking mum-of-two who runs her own hugely successful coaching business, Dani Wallace looks like she’s got it all figured out. But 10 years ago she was stuck in an abusive relationship and couldn’t see any way out. In the autumn of 2010, Dani had to take out a non-molestation order against her abusive partner, the father of her second child, after enduring two years of coercive control and violent behaviour. After a difficult period, sofa-surfing at friends’ houses, she wouldn’t give up on her dream of making a better life for her and her daughters – and a moment of inspiration while watching ‘The Bee Movie’ set her on the path to success. With just £300 saved up, Dani launched her coaching business ‘I am Queen Bee’ and now counts celebrities like former Atomic Kitten star Natasha Hamilton among her clientele and is set to turn over £100K this year.

What better person to talk to this Business Hour than the self proclaimed ‘Queen Bee’, Dani Wallace. Helen Sanderson was buzzing to chat with the woman who looks like she has it all

She began ‘I Am the Queen Bee’, initially as a Facebook group for women in business to find support. Dani explained: “I got the idea for my branding while watching The Bee Movie with my kids. There was this quote: ‘According to all known laws of aviation, there is no way that a bee should be able to fly. Its wings are too small to get its fat little body off the ground. The bee, of course, flies anyway. Because bees don’t care what humans think is impossible.’ “And I loved that, because most of us are only really held back by the limitations we set ourselves in our own heads.” The Facebook group became a thriving safe space where women could support each other, and Dani’s live streams eventually became a regular weekday morning 8am event called the Show Up, Wise Up and Rise Up Show.

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“I’m a big believer in having an ‘abundance mentality’. This mind shift focuses on what we do have, and it allows us to see possibilities rather than limits. You start making a difference in your life when you show up, wise up and rise up,” Dani explained.

YOU START MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR LIFE WHEN YOU SHOW UP, WISE UP AND RISE UP “I used to be jealous of other people having money or success, but now I believe there is enough to go round for everyone and we can all help each other. So I’m happy to surround myself with positive, achieving people. It was drummed into me to work hard, now I’m working smart.” Last year Dani launched the FLYANYWAY Foundation. She explained: “It was always my intention, from the second I heard the Bee Movie quote about bees not caring what humans think is impossible, to create a foundation that would help survivors of domestic abuse build businesses so that they could do just that, Fly Anyway.”

“Taking back control of your life after you have escaped a toxic relationship is incredibly difficult. “Learning to trust yourself, your talents and believing in your worth as an independent, whole person is a constant struggle, especially if you are trying to do that on your own.” The #FlyAnyway Foundation is a community interest company (soon to be a registered charity) that was launched to help survivors of Domestic Abuse and Domestic Violence, to build their financial independence and confidence by connecting them to business mentors and services. The service users are referred to as Business Builders so that their identity is not built upon victimhood, but it is built

on their empowerment as they build their lives again. The board comprises of founder of Killing Kittens and the Sistr Network, Emma Sayle, Olympic medallist Marilyn Okoro, successful business coach and celebrity events planner Deep Bajwa and Dani’s sister as project lead, who is a speciality domestic abuse support worker.

If that’s not enough for one business woman, Dani also published her autobiography earlier this year. ‘I am the Queen Bee’ which recounts her life as she grew up on a Preston estate. It details how she overcame adversities before finding and creating a new path for her life. Dani said: “I’m a speaker and speaker coach by trade these days and I have written this book like a series of talks. Short topics, stories and learnings that, when you squish them all together, form a veritable arsenal of awesome which I hope will truly help others. My ambition is to help women across the world “show up, wise up and rise up”. n

Business continues to boom across Preston and Fylde area despite this being hailed as the most challenging business year in memory If you have any Business Matters news items then please share them with me at: helen.sanderson@live-magazines.co.uk

COVID THANK YOU PARADE

Image: Paul Rommer

BUSINESS MATTERS

tbc lifestyle 104 business

PRESTON BUCKS THE NORTHERN TREND The economic and social divide between the North and the South of the UK has widened over the past three years and is continuing to grow, new data suggests. While on average southern areas are more prosperous than northern regions, Preston is one of three cities in the north of England, as well as Manchester and Leeds that have bucked the trend with betterthan-average growth. Preston’s success is being attributed to the ‘Preston model’ of sustainable economic development and experimentation in ‘community wealth building’.

Mayor of Preston, Councillor Javed Iqbal, has announced a Covid Thank You parade to take place in Preston this autumn. He is now looking for essential businesses, organisations and groups who have worked throughout the pandemic to support the people and communities in Preston to participate. The torchlight parade, designed as a tribute to key workers, will form part of the finale of Lancashire Encounter and take place early evening 2nd October in Preston City Centre. Expected to have a mixture of vehicles and walking participants, with a mix of proud Prestonians alongside astonishing acts from further afield, the procession will have the theme of ‘light’. This event will provide the opportunity for a city celebration and appreciation for all who have sacrificed and worked hard to support Preston through the pandemic.

CELEBRITY DESIGNER TO REDESIGN PENWORTHAM South Ribble Borough Council are working with Hemingway Design on an exciting new plan for Penwortham’s high streets – and they’re looking for the help of residents. Wayne Hemingway MBE: “Our vision is of attractive and welcoming high streets with thriving independent businesses providing a vibrant mix of retail and leisure that’s perfect for the post-Covid world.”

FUNDING PACKAGE APPROVED Plans for Preston’s multi-million pound cinema and leisure complex took an important step forward today as Councillors agreed a funding package for the project. The new development, called ‘Animate’, will be located on the site of the former indoor market and will feature an eight-screen cinema and bowling alley along with five new restaurants and bars, a street-food hub, a car park, and new public square. The scheme will bring growth and development to the city centre as well as bringing in over £7million of extra economic activity every year while creating 125 full time equivalent jobs.

PARTNERSHIP APPROVED FOR SKILLS CHECKS

TOP PLANNING AWARD FOR PRESTON Preston City Council earned a prestigious planning award for its strategy that is transforming the city. Preston continues to be an example for other small cities and towns. Recently, Preston City Council’s City Living Strategy nabbed the top prize at the Royal Town Planning Institute Awards for Planning Excellence 2021. The city’s Planning Department also won team of the year. The City Living Strategy is a vision to transform Preston’s city centre and inner suburbs into a series of vibrant neighbourhoods.

Cabinet at Preston City Council have given the go ahead to a partnership with Calico Enterprise Ltd for the implementation and monitoring of the Central Lancashire Employment Skills Supplementary Planning Document (SPD). Calico Enterprise, part of the Calico Group, will provide the Council with additional resources, expertise and experience to help introduce this new and innovative end-to-end process, understood to be the first of its type in the UK. The service will support and encourage applicants and the construction industry to achieve the local employment and skills outcomes identified within adopted Core Strategy policies, supporting the Council’s delivery of principal Community Wealth Building objectives.

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BEST OF BOTH WORLDS The all new BMW iX3 is a highly efficient, pure electric trailblazer, writes Paul Agnew. Photography: Roger Moore

e all have our goals and dreams. Achieving them is the hard bit. Nigh on impossible unless you are prepared to compromise. So, is it simply unrealistic to imagine ever realising ‘the best of both worlds’? Not, it seems, when it comes to cars and one car in particular – the new BMW iX3. It’s electric – in every respect. No compromises required here. BMW’s first pure electric Sports Activity Vehicle is not only efficient in the extreme it’s also eye-catching and exciting.

A true trailblazer for this era of electric mobility, perfectly serving the needs of the moment, it has sporting prowess, exceptional performance and long-distance ability with a range of up to 286 miles. Driving pleasure, ease of operation and great character, inside and out, make this a stand-out motor.

ELECTRIC DRIVING WITH THE EXCITING POSSIBILITIES OFFERED BY THIS MODERN MASTERPIECE IS TO BE EMBRACED, NOT FEARED We’re talking Vernasca leather, metallic paint, 20” aerodynamic black alloy wheels, automatic tailgate, panoramic glass sunroof, sun protection glass, automatic air conditioning, adaptive LED headlights, parking assistant, driving assistant professional, heated front seats, wireless charging, acoustic pedestrian warning and ambient lighting. As for the drive, you’ll find a highly-integrated

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system with electric motor, transmission and power electronics in a single housing. Maximum output: 286 hp, peak torque: 400 Nm (295 lb-ft), acceleration (0-62mph): 6.8 seconds. This is the true power of electric driving, constant and instant acceleration to give any road trip or adventure extra thrills to savour. The high-voltage battery has a gross energy content of 80 kWh (kilowatts an hour). A combined charging unit enables direct current charging at a rapid rate and a 10-minute fast charge adds around 100 kilometres (62 miles) of range in the WLTP cycle. Stop right there! Just what, I can hear you asking, is WLTP? Well, it stands for Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure – the name for the test that decides fuel efficiency ratings for all petrol, diesel, electric and hybrid cars. Snappy? No. Important? Very much so.

A TRUE TRAILBLAZER FOR THIS ERA OF ELECTRIC MOBILITY, PERFECTLY SERVING THE NEEDS OF THE MOMENT, IT HAS SPORTING PROWESS, EXCEPTIONAL PERFORMANCE AND LONG-DISTANCE ABILITY

As for equipment, there are two lines to choose from, ‘Inspiring’ and ‘Impressive’ including a mix of aforementioned goodies plus adaptive suspension, automatic tailgate operation, electrically adjustable seats, sport leather steering wheel, a storage package and a three-zone automatic climate control system with pre-heating and pre-conditioning function, head-up display Harman Kardon surround sound system and BMW Iconic Sounds Electric (more of that later). It wouldn’t be a BMW without an exceptionally wide selection of driver assistance systems and with the iX3 the following come as standard: Driving Assistant Professional with Steering and Lane Control Assistant, Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, automatic Speed Limit Assist and route monitoring, Parking Assistant with Reversing Assist Camera and Reversing Assistant. The Live Cockpit Professional with cloudbased navigation system, BMW Maps and BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant also come as standard along with smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto preparation.

Last but not least, let’s talk about sound. Together with one of the world’s most famous music composers, Hans Zimmer, BMW has developed the aforementioned Iconic Sounds and it features right here in the iX3. Simply press the start/stop button, and you’ll be surrounded by the full emotional thrill of electro-mobility!

to convenient home charging solutions, topping up is a cinch. All in all this is some package – a fullyelectric vehicle that answers so many questions (not least over peace-of-mind driving) and one that takes ‘Efficient Dynamics’ to the next level. Electric driving with the exciting possibilities offered by this modern masterpiece is to be embraced, not feared. BMW engineers set out to produce a highly-desirable car whilst striving to set a new benchmark in terms of efficiency. With the iX3 they’ve managed it – truly the best of both worlds. n

For peace-of-mind electric motoring, a new app recommends battery charging stops on long routes, showing the estimated charging time required. The iX3 features the latest BMW Operating System 7, enabling secure and convenient over-the-air updates to ensure your system is always up to date. BMW continues to spearhead the creation of an extensive UK network of charging facilities, which is constantly growing to meet the dramatic rise in popularity of electric cars. From easy-to-use public charging stations

Bowker Preston BMW Channel Way Preston PR2 2YA 01772 769976 bowkerprestonbmw.co.uk @BowkerBMW @BowkerMotorGroup BowkerMotorGroup @BowkerBMW TM

EVERYTHING… & MORE The new Taycan Cross Turismo is a lifestyle super-car – a true all-rounder that is keeping Porsche ahead of the game, writes Paul Agnew. Photography: Roger Moore

orsche has always had the edge. For power and performance, style and sophistication, design and dynamics, the global motoring giant knows exactly what it takes to stay ahead of the game. Competitors stand on the sidelines, fuelled by a mix of admiration, envy and frustration, while an expanding customer base simply revels in the sheer joy of it all. But surely there must come a time when even a sports car manufacturer of this magnitude hits a wall – theoretically speaking! Could going ‘all-electric’ or ‘off-road’ put the brakes on the dominance? The short answer is no, not even slightly. In fact, the new Taycan Cross Turismo is likely to steer Porsche into an even stronger position. For this, my learned reader, is one truly awesome sports car. I was formally introduced to the 4S –

one of four derivatives – and it was love at first sight. Standing super cool in the Porsche Centre Preston showroom (the car not the reviewer) in ice grey metallic, a masterpiece of modernity oozing kerb appeal, with the capability of fizzing from 0-62mph in 4.1 secs, reaching a top speed of just shy of 150mph and offering a battery range of around 250 miles. Porsche is pursuing a path towards fully-sustainable, all-electric mobility –

without compromise and I think they are all but there. Like the Taycan sports saloon, the Taycan Cross Turismo benefits from an innovative electric drive with 800-volt architecture. A new high-tech chassis with all-wheel drive and adaptive air suspension also ensures uncompromising dynamics off-road.

PORSCHE IS PURSUING A PATH TOWARDS FULLYSUSTAINABLE, ALL-ELECTRIC MOBILITY – WITHOUT COMPROMISE AND I THINK THEY ARE ALL BUT THERE With 47 millimetres more headroom for rear-seat passengers and up to 1,212 litres of load capacity, the Taycan Cross Turismo is a true all-rounder. The Off-Road Design package (optional) increases ground clearance by up to 30mm, allowing it to be driven on mixed surfaces and uneven tracks. The Gravel Mode (standard) improves suitability for driving on rough roads. Elements include wheel arch trims, unique

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lower aprons at the front/rear and special flaps at the corners of the front/rear bumpers and at the ends of the sills. These make for a striking exterior as well as providing protection from stone impacts. Inside, the design statement continues with wing-shaped upper and lower sections of the dashboard stretching across the entire width of the car. The free-standing, curved instrument cluster forms the highest point on the dashboard. A central 10.9-inch infotainment display and a further, optional front passenger display are combined to form an integrated glass band in a blackpanel. A compass mounted on the top of the dashboard is optional.

THE TAYCAN CROSS TURISMO LOOKS SENSATIONAL, SMELLS WONDERFUL, FEELS SUMPTUOUS, DRIVES LIKE A DREAM – A LIFESTYLE SUPER-CAR TRUE TO ITS BRAND AND HERITAGE Style is imperative, but comfort comes a close second, especially off-road. Nothing is left to chance. The integrated Porsche 4D Chassis Control analyses and synchronises all systems in real time to allow the driver to easily perform adjustments. The ride height is automatically raised for road humps or garage driveways. Such positions can be stored by simply pressing the chassis button. Clever stuff. Thanks to FoD (Functions on Demand), drivers can purchase various convenience and assist functions as required. Significantly, this option is possible after the vehicle has been bought, and availability does not depend on the car’s original configuration.

It is not necessary to visit a workshop (thanks to online activation) for the likes of Porsche Intelligent Range Manager, Power Steering Plus, Active Lane Keeping and Porsche InnoDrive. Easy and quick to charge at home and on the road, the Taycan Cross Turismo battery recharges to provide a range of up to 100 miles in just five minutes. The plug and charge function enables convenient charging and payments without the need for cards or an app. The Taycan Cross Turismo is everything, and more, that a car born in 2021 should be, and you can put your name on one from £80k. I could go on and on about the stunning safety features and the high-end green technologies, but there just isn’t the space.

Suffice to say, excellence in all areas. But a word or two about the extensive ‘standard’ equipment – digitally broadcast radio with truly superb sound quality and Apple ® podcasts that can be selected as an

individual media source. You’ll also find LED headlights, advanced climate control (two zones), exclusive 21” wheels, multifunction sports steering wheel, partial leather interior and eight-way electrically adjustable comfort seats. The Taycan Cross Turismo looks sensational, smells wonderful, feels sumptuous, drives like a dream – a lifestyle super-car true to its brand and heritage. Fancy one? Join the queue. n

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4.7mpg, CO2 emissions 185g/km. Mpg figures are official EU test figures for comparative purposes & may not reflect real driving results. Fuel consumption uding accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles & vehicle load.

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le with Subaru Personal Contract Purchase on the specific models stated. Excludes fleet and BASC and NFU Members Affinity Scheme sales. Available at participating dealers only. Not available in conjunction rs Finance Limited, registered office at Charterhall House, Charterhall Drive, Chester, Cheshire, CH88 3AN. We can introduce you to Subaru Finance and a limited number of lenders who may be able to provide ers may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Offer ends 30.09.21. †Forester e-BOXER is covered by a 3 Year/60,000 mile (whichever comes sooner) Limited Warranty which comprises of a standard 3 Year/60,000 Extended Warranty (applies to powertrain only) provided by the importer. Added reassurance is provided by a comprehensive 3 Year Recovery and Assistance Programme valid in the UK and Europe. Vehicle shown e includes VAT, delivery, number plates, 12 months road fund licence and first registration fee. Prices correct at time of going to print. Please consult your local Subaru dealer for a quotation. 48 monthly payments (Plus Customer Deposit & Optional Final Payment)

AVAILABLE FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY

SPEAK TO A MEMBER OF OUR TEAM TODAY Dales Subaru 01282 797555

439 Colne Road, Barnoldswick, Lancashire BB18 6TG

SEARCH: Dales Subaru Subaru Dales Subaru, Trading as A To B Vehicles Ltd is a credit broker and not a lender

SUBARU FORESTER e-BOXER fuel economy and CO2 results (WLTP): Combined 34.7mpg, CO2 emissions 185g/km. Mpg figures are official EU test figures for comparative purposes & may not reflect real driving results. Fuel consumption achieved in real life conditions & CO2 produced depends on a number of factors including accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles & vehicle load. *Credit available subject to status to UK residents aged 18 and over. *Dealer deposit contributions only available with Subaru Personal Contract Purchase on the specific models stated. Excludes fleet and BASC and NFU Members Affinity Scheme sales. Available at participating dealers only. Not available in conjunction with any other offers. This credit offer is only available through Subaru Finance provided by International Motors Finance Limited, registered office at Charterhall House, Charterhall Drive, Chester, Cheshire, CH88 3AN. We can introduce you to Subaru Finance and a limited number of lenders who may be able to provide funding for your vehicle. We may receive commission or other benefits for introducing you to these lenders. Offers may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Offer ends 30.09.21. †Forester e-BOXER is covered by a 3 Year/60,000 mile (whichever comes sooner) Limited Warranty which comprises of a standard 3 Year/60,000 mile (whichever is sooner). Manufacturer’s Warranty (bumper to bumper, excluding clutch driven plate) and an Extended Warranty (applies to powertrain only) provided by the importer. Added reassurance is provided by a comprehensive 3 Year Recovery and Assistance Programme valid in the UK and Europe. Vehicle shown is an Forester 2.0i XE Premium Lineartronic with optional special paint finish OTR price of £39,360.00. OTR price includes VAT, delivery, number plates, 12 months road fund licence and first registration fee. Prices correct at time of going to print. Please consult your local Subaru dealer for a quotation.

A SAFARI ON OUR DOORSTEP

or our own well being its vital to devote some time each day to something pleasant and relaxing. Contact with nature is a tried and tested way to relieve stress. Birding and wildlife photography lets our tensions melt away and helps us cope with whatever the world throws at us. And in contrast to man-made entertainments these activities do not merely distract, they heal us. Many of us spent lockdown looking for something different to do and developed a new awareness of the world around us in gardens and parks. A lot of us also made new acquaintance with some of the wonderful nature reserves that surround Preston and the Fylde. However, there are still people who think that the wonders of nature live somewhere else and have no idea of the

After the excitement of Euro 2020 and the Tokyo Olympics many are craving less dramatic sports in their lives. Although some argue that bird watching or birding is not a sport it is enjoyed by many millions of people across the globe. Mike Ebdy tells us how we can enjoy bird watching and wildlife photography whilst going on a safari close to home treasures on our doorstep. If you get out and about locally, you don’t have to go far to see remarkable things.You’ll need some sturdy old shoes, and a waterproof, but walking is a great way to keep fit, and watching out for nature will make any walk much more interesting. If you’re keen enough, some binoculars will help you. These need not cost the earth, and £25 will get you a decent pair for

beginners on eBay. If you fancy it, nature photography is a great hobby, and it is fine to start with your smartphone and move upmarket if your interest grows. Perhaps the best place to start is at Brockholes. Managed by the Lancashire Wildlife Trust, it is conveniently situated where the A59 meets the M6 (Junction 31). Twenty years ago it was two working cattle farms, but gravel extraction followed by

sport

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sensitive restoration allowed the creation of a fabulous nature reserve. Admission is free, but you need to pay for parking (£5 per day for cars). What will you see? As you park up, you might see Kevin the kestrel. He is the king of the car park and might well be the most photographed bird of prey in the country. In the summer, common terns nest on rafts on the lake, sandpipers and other waders will be close by, and ospreys have been known to drop in. Hobbies, which are small falcons, hunt dragonflies over the lakes and also on the Ribble, which runs around the site. Sand martins nest in prepared sites and in the banks of the river, flying in and out of their nest holes with insects for their insatiable youngsters.

Hares and lapwing are common. Adjoining the reserve are Boilton Wood and Red Scar Woods, a huge tract of ancient woodland, home to foxes, roe deer and much else. For those wanting a better view, Brockholes is also home to In Focus, a well-known shop selling binoculars and telescopes. Whether you are a novice or an expert, they will give good advice. At Blackpool, Marton Mere is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, created from a former rubbish tip. Famous for orchids and dragonflies, this is a reed-bed and wetland habitat with a wide variety of wetland species. Within sight of the tower, you might see a long-eared owl! Just to the west of Chorley is White Coppice. There is car parking at the picturesque cricket field, beside the Goit, a canal linking local reservoirs.You can go north to Brinscall or south to Anglezarke

reservoir, where a walk through broad-leaved woodland takes you along the waterside. It is a rewarding walk either way, with chiffchaff, roe deer and cuckoo, and grey wagtails busy on the water.

BIRDING AND WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY LETS OUR TENSIONS MELT AWAY AND HELPS US COPE WITH WHATEVER THE WORLD THROWS AT US On the other side of Chorley is Yarrow Valley Country Park. A walk around the lake will bring you to the river and the weir, where dippers hunt for food in the fast-running water. Goldcrests and kingfishers are around, and a bank vole might pop out of his burrow by the bridge if you spread some bird seed outside. Lancashire Wildlife Trust manages around 40 nature reserves across the county, and clearly I lack the space to describe them all, but further information can be found at

lancswt.org.uk/. Membership costs as little as £3.00 per month, and family membership with added benefits for children starts at £4.00 per month. Other organisations are active too, with the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds managing Leighton Moss in Silverdale and sites on the Ribble estuary at Fairhaven Lake, Marshside and Hesketh Out Marsh. The Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust runs a wonderful reserve at Martin Mere near Burscough, where marsh harriers are relatively common and if you are very lucky indeed you might see a bittern. n

SPANISH RESTAURANT DREAMS FOR PRESTON ENTREPRENEUR

nthony Smith oozes enthusiasm. He rattles through his ideas for his new business and plans for the future like he’s planning world domination. Its always great fun meeting up with Anthony, he’s effervescent and I’m always enthralled to hear his latest business plans. He talks with the confidence of a man who’s not afraid of failing. And why would he fail? He’s already built a business from the ground up, that turned over £12 million a year. I’ve known Anthony for the past 10 years, our paths have crossed as we had mutual business colleagues in the Preston business world. 10 years ago Anthony was building Lantei, a market leading testing company

He was listed amongst the top 100 influencers in Preston and the Fylde in our last issue and now he’s being referred to as the Banksy of the Preston restaurant world. Helen Sanderson talked to Anthony Smith about creating a fiesta in the city centre with the opening of his new restaurant. Photography: Andy Tighe which offers compliance packages. He built the award winning, multimillion pound business from humble beginnings in a bedroom in Holme Slack, Preston in 2010 with nothing more than a credit card and a Yellow Pages. Anthony’s business credentials and skills as an entrepreneur were never in question yet it wasn’t until 2017 that I first learnt

food&drink a regular supper club was that it was only held six times a year, consisted of six courses, and was open to just six randomly chosen guests.

I WANT THE FOOD TO BE PHENOMENAL, THE VIBE TO BE GREAT AND THE MUSIC TO BE QUINTESSENTIALLY SPANISH It was held at the private home of the host (which turned out to be Anthony), the location was only divulged a week or so before the event. All of the prep, cooking, service and washing up was done by the chef who was known only as Six. Guests weren’t allowed to name the host and it created a tremendous buzz in ‘foodie’ circles across the City. Anthony explained: “I have always loved cooking and I had a successful, secret popup restaurants called Six Seats – I took six strangers from a social media platform, got them together and gave them a six course taster menu. The only rule was they couldn’t tell anyone who I was and so BBC Radio Lancashire started calling me the Banksy of the food world. It created a wonderful air of mystery and if it had not been for lockdown, I would have carried on with that.” In early 2020 I sold Lantei and we went into the national lockdown,” said Anthony, “I was home-schooling and looking after the kids. I had a lot of time on my hands and money in the bank. Its then that I worked on the concept of a restaurant. I have done bars and restaurants up over the years and I have always wanted a place of my own in the centre of Preston, to be in my chef whites in the kitchen.” of his abilities as a chef, when he starred on an episode of Come Dine with Me. Of course Anthony with his ‘larger than life’ personality made brilliant viewing. Recalling the experience Anthony laughed: “Come Dine with Me” was a fantastic experience and I loved every second. I got to put my cooking and hosting skills to the test with a group of strangers. I was delighted to win and I donated the £1000 to charity.” In truth Anthony has always been a keen chef and originally trained in catering at Runshaw College. It came as no surprise to me to find out that it was Anthony who was the man behind the highly secretive Six Seats Supper Club. What made this unlike

Anthony wanted to create a concept in Preston that was quintessentially Spanish in its flavour profile and service delivery. “I wanted to emulate the restaurants of San Sebastian. Their restaurants are gastronomic experiences, a feast for the senses.You can visit for a glass of wine, before going on somewhere else or for

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dinner and the whole evening, but it will always be a great experience; lively relaxed yet still elegant. A place where you could meet a colleague after work or bring your family to celebrate.”

The perfect venue came available on the corner of Friargate on Preston’s Flag Market and Anthony’s restaurant dream became a reality called Pintxos (pronounced Pinchos). Pintxos are small pieces of bread with tasty toppings secured with a cocktail stick and are traditionally eaten as snacks in bars in the Basque region. Anthony explained: “I love Spain and I want to bring that informal style of eating, from the Basque region into the city centre. I want the food to be phenomenal, the vibe to be great, the music to be quintessentially Spanish or Latin and the atmosphere to be brilliant.”

PRESTON IS MY HOME. I WAS BORN AND BRED HERE AND WHERE ELSE WOULD I REALISE MY RESTAURANT DREAMS? With plans to have a pitch in front of the restaurant on the Flag Market, for tables and chairs Anthony hopes to create a great piazza vibe at night.You can see it |all over his face, but Anthony readily |admits he is excited to be at the heart of what he truly believes will soon be a reinvigorated city centre. He concludes: “Preston is my home. I was born and bred here and where else would I realise my restaurant dreams? There is lots of investment coming to the city and I know its going to be an incredibly exciting place to be. I’m really proud to be amongst the first to take that leap of faith and open up my restaurant dream here in the city centre.” I can’t help but wish him all the luck in the world with his new restaurant but knowing Anthony as I do, he wont need luck his hard work, determination and positive ‘can do’ attitude will never fail. n

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SUPPER C L U B I

’m delighted to announce that Supper Club is back this month with our first event for more than 18 months. We’ve kept in touch with many of our original members and because of their requests our Supper Club is back on 16th September at the stunning Black Bull at Old Langho. We have kept things simple before Christmas with a series of dinner dates at some of our local restaurants but are in the process of exploring all sorts of ideas and activities including lunch with walks, race days, gin tastings and even a table at the soon to be announced Obsession at Northcote early in 2022.

For like-minded single men and women who enjoy socialising, sparkling conversation and fabulous food, Live Ribble Valley Supper Club is back, writes Tedd Walmsley LIVE RIBBLE VALLEY SUPPER CLUB DATES Black Bull Old Langho Thursday 16th September 7pm (last five places) £45 to include three delicious courses with fizz on arrival Contact Katherine 01254 248801 to book Yu Copster Green Thursday 14th October 7pm £55 – three courses includes signature cocktail 01254 240665

To remind you, Supper Club has no subscription and no commitment except to choose the event or dinner you’re interested in – book the appropriate night and commit to being part of a fantastic occasion. We are unashamedly targeting a group of women and particularly men

over 50, who enjoy good food, good conversation, friendship, companionship and the odd glass of wine. Our host Lynn is on hand to make sure the night runs smoothly and our Australian-style seating means you’ll move around between courses and meet a number of new people on the night.

Three Fishes Mitton November date TBC Be one of the first to dine at the newly-refurbished restaurant with Nigel Haworth’s new menu

As our ability to dine out with little or no restrictions has returned, it’s the very best time for us to re-group and re-launch what was a popular pre-Covid series of informal dinners for single people. Please get in touch and gentlemen, we’d especially love to hear from you and get more of you involved. Tell us what you’d like to see and we’ll do our best to deliver. n

Details to follow supperclubenquiries@live-magazines.co.uk

A TASTE OF SAN SEBASTIAN IN THE HEART OF PRESTON NOW OPEN 36 Market Place PR1 2AR | barpintxos.co.uk | 01772 821202

barpintxos_pr1

/BarPintxos

! S E T I B D FO Tuck into our page of Food Bites which brings you the latest news on our restaurants, rural country inns, chefs and local artisan producers who all make Preston and the Fylde a region of outstanding gastronomy If you have any Food Bites news items, please let me know: helen.sanderson@live-magazines.co.uk

NEW GUILDHALL STREET WINEBAR

Wine and beer bar NIKO has opened in Preston city centre and is off to a flying start. The new bar successfully opened this summer already generating some regulars who return every week to Guildhall Street. NIKO’s aim is to bring expert knowledge and a high level of service to bring a bar experience like Preston has never seen before according to the owners.

NEW CHEF DELIVERING THE VISION

Floriana’s has a new chef at the helm. Shane Whitaker is fanatical about quality food and launched a new menu at the Glovers |Court restaurant this summer. Shane was mentored by Marco Pierre White and his passion for food and culinary excellence is contagious. The new menu combines a selection of stunning small plate options along with a la carte dishes.

FRIARGATE BETTING SHOP TO BECOME A RESTAURANT

REFURB FOR POPUAR PUB

POPULAR RESTAURANT LEAVES TOWN

NEW PIZZA AND COCKTAIL BAR

A former betting shop on Friargate has had plans submitted to become a bar, restaurant and radio hub. The ‘Bet Sid’ betting shop and offices are currently vacant and have been since 2019. The application intends a new use of the ground floor of the property as a bar with tables served by a small kitchen area in t he ground floor area, and use of the first floor as a bar lounge with two karaoke studios.

Olive Tree Brasserie has closed its door in Preston city centre. After ongoing negotiations with the landlord through the difficult 18 months that have passed, the popular restaurant is having to suddenly close in Church Street. Dean Wilson, Director of Olive Tree Brasserie said in a statement: “We would like to thank all of our loyal customers, many of whom have enjoyed the brand over many years as well as our dedicated Preston team for all their hard work and passion in making the Olive Tree Brasserie Preston experience one to remember.

The Station Preston has changed hands and has had a major refurbishment. It was the 17th addition to Blind Tiger Inns, which had a £100,000 refurbishment earlier this year. The newly refurbished pub is next to Preston Station so is a great spot for commuters, football fans, shoppers and those on days out in Preston. The pub has live local singers every Saturday, and they are family friendly, dog friendly, and have a beer garden at the rear as well as darts and a contactless pool table.

All Hopes No Promises which has opened in Guildhall Street is run by the same people as Smashed Preston in Miller Arcade. A spokesperson said: “The bar is a whole new concept in Preston, welcoming people from all backgrounds to come and try our amazing pizza and mystical cocktails developed by General Manager Andrew Ball. “The venue is designed to stand out from the norm. After going through a pandemic, we thought that Preston needed a little bit of something different to bring it back to life whilst not straying away from its heritage.”

Gourmet Weddings atatNorthcote Gourmet Weddings Northcote ourmet Gourmet Weddings Weddings at Northcote at Northcote

The Louis Roederer Champagne Rooms at at Northcote areare thethe The Louis Roederer Northcote The LouisThe Roederer LouisThe Champagne Roederer Louis Champagne Roederer Rooms Champagne atChampagne Rooms Northcote at Rooms Northcote areRooms theat Northcote are the are the perfect venue for anan unforgettable gourmet wedding experience perfect venue for unforgettable gourmet wedding experience erfect venue perfect for venue an perfect unforgettable for an venue unforgettable for gourmet an unforgettable wedding gourmet experience wedding gourmet experience wedding experience

It’s time to look forward to Christmas lunch at Northcote We all missed out last year. Now it’s time to celebrate with a stunning festive menu created by Lisa Goodwin-Allen. ENTHUSIASM TO CELEBRATE THIS CHRISTMAS IS UNPRECEDENTED DON’T MISS YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO BOOK A FESTIVE LUNCH TREAT

Samantha Broadley Photography Samantha Broadley Photography mantha hy Broadley Photography Samantha Broadley Photography

View our menu and book now at northcote.com/christmas

WEDNESDAY 24TH NOVEMBER – THURSDAY 23RD DECEMBER

A Northcote Gift Voucher is the perfect Christmas surprise for lovers of The luxurious wedding suite located onfloor thethe ground floor of aNorthcote, Northcote, 26 bedroom The luxurious suite is ground located on floor of a 26 bedroom he s wedding luxurious The suite wedding luxurious is located suite wedding oniswedding the located ground suite onwine isisthe floor located of Northcote, on the ground ofground aNorthcote, 26floor bedroom of 26Northcote, bedroom aa 26 bedroom fabulous food and hotel situated on the edge of the picturesque Ribble Valley. hotel situated on the edge of the picturesque Ribble Valley.

on tel situated the edge hotel on of the situated the edge picturesque on of the picturesque edge Ribble of Valley. the picturesque Ribble Valley. Ribble Valley. Available from £40

Arrive inentrance style through thethe exclusive entrance and greet your guests inorthe the dedicated cocktail barbar or or Arrive inonline style through exclusive entrance and greet your guests in the dedicated cocktail hrough rive in style the exclusive Arrive through in the style exclusive through and entrance greet the exclusive your and guests greet entrance inyour theand dedicated guests greet in your the cocktail dedicated guests barin cocktail dedicated bar orcocktail bar or Purchase at northcote.com Champagne courtyard. Then it’smenu time to enjoy enjoy an exquisite menu designed by Executive Executive Chef LisaLisa Champagne courtyard. Then it’s time to enjoy an exquisite designed byLisa Executive Chef hampagne urtyard. Then courtyard. Champagne it’s timeThen tocourtyard. enjoy it’s time an exquisite Then to enjoy it’s an time exquisite to designed menu an byexquisite Executive designed menu Chef bymenu Executive designed Lisa Chef by Chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen and herretiring team before retiring to one one of our our beautifully designed suites or bedrooms. bedrooms. Goodwin-Allen her team before to one of our beautifully suites or bedrooms. oodwin-Allen and her team Goodwin-Allen and before herretiring team and before toand one her team of our before to beautifully one retiring of retiring our designed beautifully to of suites designed or beautifully bedrooms. suitesdesigned ordesigned bedrooms. suites or

Our dedicated wedding co-ordinator willyour discuss every last detail ofday your special dayday to create create your Our dedicated wedding co-ordinator will discuss detail of toyour special to create your wedding ur dedicated co-ordinator Our wedding dedicated will co-ordinator discuss wedding every will co-ordinator discuss last detail every will of last discuss detail special every ofevery day your last tolast detail special create of your your special create your day to your beautiful occasion. beautiful occasion. on. autiful occasion. beautiful occasion.

Northcote Road, Langho, Blackburn, Lancashire BB6 8BE Northcote Langho, Blackburn, Lancashire BB6 8BE ho, thcote Blackburn, Road, Langho, Lancashire Northcote Blackburn, Road, BB6 Road, 8BE Langho, Lancashire Blackburn, BB6 8BELancashire BB6 8BE Telephone: 01254 240 555 | Email: events@northcote.com | www.northcote.com | Email: | www.northcote.com | Email: | Email: |events@northcote.com | www.northcote.com Telephone: 01254 240 555 ephone: 555 | Email: 01254 events@northcote.com 240 Telephone: 555 01254 events@northcote.com 240 |555 www.northcote.com events@northcote.com www.northcote.com | @NorthcoteUK | /NorthcoteUK northcoteuk |northcoteuk || /NorthcoteUK | |northcoteuk @NorthcoteUK /NorthcoteUK northcoteuk @NorthcoteUK /NorthcoteUK| |@NorthcoteUK /NorthcoteUK northcoteuk

An optional 12.5% service charge will be added to your bill.

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LANCASHIRE’S SON TO COME HOME Paul Heathcote, former Michelin starred chef is going to return to Preston with a new restaurant in the city centre

he man who helped refine many Lancashire specialities, from his home county, is due to open a new business venture at 23 Winckley Square which will then be named ‘Number 23 Winckley’. Paul also used to run Heathcotes Brasserie at the same Winckley Square address until 2016 before it was sold to Solita. However, Solita closed in 2018 and then it reopened as Trinity on the Square but then that closed down in 2019. Paul’s new project will be located at the same address but it is thought it will not be a traditional restaurant. Having studied catering at Bolton Technical College, Paul opened his first restaurant, named Heathcotes in 1990 at the age of 29. Within nine days of

opening, a gas leak saw the kitchen go up in flames, but against all odds, they were open again only 48 hours later. Within two years he was awarded his first Michelin star, as well as the Good Food Guide’s Restaurant of the Year. His second star came in 1994 which he retained for the next four years. It remained a one-star establishment until 2003, when it was launched as the Longridge Restaurant, regaining its second star in the 2004 awards.

RHUBARB & BLACK PUDDING – A PORTRAIT OF THE CHARACTER, PEOPLE AND ATMOSPHERE OF RURAL LANCASHIRE Over the years, Paul Heathcote has added 12 more restaurants to his portfolio, including Grado in Manchester, Simply Heathcotes in Wrightington and several branches of Olive Press Bar and Grill. After 22 years, he decided to sell his flagship Longridge Restaurant and the cookery school he had added to the venue, as he

wished to pursuit other avenues. Paul Heathcote has published two cookbooks, Heathcotes at Home and Rhubarb & Black Pudding – the latter a portrait of the character, people and atmosphere of rural Lancashire which showcases his prized local producers as well as his extraordinary, two-Michelin -star cooking. He fundraises for several charities and works with organisations to promote Lancashire, educate and train young people entering the hospitality industry and teach children about food and healthy eating. He has also received three honorary fellowships from Liverpool John Moores University, Lancashire University and from Bolton University, in his home town. In 2009 he was awarded an MBE for services to the hospitality industry. In 2016, he sold Heathcote’s Brasserie and The Olive Press after twenty-one years of service to focus on his catering business. Paul currently runs his catering company ‘Heathcote and Co’ at venues including Preston North End. n

We have our new a la carte, pub grub and salad menus available. Lunch and Tea time treats £14 2 courses and £18.50 3 courses Wednesday to Friday 12 – 2pm and 6-7pm, Saturdays 12 – 2pm FOOD SERVING HOURS

COME AND JOIN US...

Wednesday to Saturday 12 noon to 2pm and 6pm to 9pm

Outdoor seating area for drinks and food.

Sunday – 12 noon to 6:30pm Sunday Lunch £20.50 2 courses £26.50 3 courses.

10 beautiful bedrooms also available from £94 per night bed and breakfast.

Booking recommended 01200 443339 3 Millstones Inn, Waddington Rd, West Bradford BB7 4SX

@3millstone 3millstones.co.uk

WHAT'SON

BLACKPOOL’S ILLUMINATIONS 3rd September – 3rd January 2022

onth ! The Illuminations are to have a two-m The greatest free light show is back t’s hard-hit tourism industry an resor the give to ded Inten year. extension like last ption emic expected to cause further disru added boost with the Covid-19 pand year. over the first few months of the new visitblackpool.com

CITY OF PRESTON 10K

26th September

The SPAR City of Preston 10K, the only race where you can run throu gh the heart of Preston City Centre, is returning after a year off due to Covid. All finishers will receive a commemor ative SPAR City of Preston 10K meda l, and all runners will receive a t-shir t. The race will be marshalled and on closed roads, and there are route markers every 1km. letsdothis.com

KIRKHAM ARTISAN MARKET Kirkham Market Square 9th October

et at the monthly market in the mark Lancashire Artisan Traders will be local ous fabul some be will There square in Kirkham from 9am-3pm. produce on sale. Lancashire businesses with fantastic 07446 057869

Events in and around Preston & Fylde, for all the family

LSA ART SOCIETY AUTUMN EXH

Lytham Heritage Centre 21st September – 10th October

IBITION

An exciting display of artwork by local artists – for more than 100 years the Society has been at the creative heart of Lytham St Annes. lythamheritage.wordpress.com

CHORLEY’S BIG WEEKEND 1st – 2nd October

usual The event will be a mix of indoor and outdoor activities instead of the with indoor Chorley Live. Organisers Chorley Council have been working will help venues and the Creative Network to come up with a new format that night give people a variety of options to enjoy the event while ensuring the past. the in provided has Live Chorley that boost the get s time businesse chorleylive.com

ED BYRNE: IF I’M HONEST

Lowther Pavilion 3rd November

Join Ed as he takes a long hard look at himself and tries to decide if he has ANY traits that are worth passing on to his children. lowtherpavillion.co.uk

THEATRE

Brought to you from the Winter Gardens, Blackpool Book online: wintergardensblackpool.co.uk

WHAT’S LOVE GOT TO DO WITH IT –

DERREN BROWN – 1st - 2nd OCTOBER

illusion, The multi award-winning master of mind control and psychological received Derren Brown, is at his very best on stage. His one-man shows have other wide critical acclaim and more Olivier wins and nominations than any but if in history! The content of the show remains a closely guarded secret, treat! se powerhou a for in you’re know you before, you’ve seen him

14th OCT

OBER What’s Love Got To Do With It is the joyous new show celebrating the music of the incredible Tina Turner. In a breat h-taking career spanning over 50 years, audiences can look forward to heari ng stunning musical arrangements of Tina’s most-loved classic hits includ ing; Private Dancer, What’s Love Got To Do With It?, Proud Mary, River Deep , Nutbush City Limits, Simply The Best and many more. This not-to-be misse d musical experience is a stunning celebration of one of the greatest singers of our time.

VEMBER

ELF THE MUSICAL – 21

st - 31st OCTOBER

Christmas is arriving in Blackpool early this yea r as Elf arrives at the Ope House this October. Elf: ra The Musical features son gs by Tony Award nom Matthew Sklar and Cha inees d Beguelin (The Weddin g Singer), with a book Tony Award winners Tho by mas Meehan (Annie, The Producers, Hairspray) Bob Martin (The Drowsy and Chaperone).

FRIENDSFEST LIVE – 5th - 19th NO

years, festive experiences from previous FriendsFest will include all the best digital a with snow the in titles the recreate including giving fans the chance to holiday season would be complete no e, cours of and op, photo snow globe ng?! Grotto. Could this BE any more exciti without a visit to The Holiday Armadillo’s of the best some ing watch t whils relax and Guests will also be able to kick back est TV show of all time. seasonal moments from the great

MAGIC GOES WRONG – 24th - 27th

COLLABRO – 6th NOVEMBER

tre Company Choir

Featuring the Electric Youth Thea

, have al theatre vocal group, COLLABRO The world’s most successful music some their most memorable rming perfo tour Hits test Grea announced their Home’ and ‘Defying Gravity’. tracks including ‘Stars’, ‘Bring Him

NOVEMBER

Back with their biggest comedy catas trophe to date, multi award-winning Mischief (The Play That Goes Wrong, BBC One’s The Goes Wrong Show) return to the stage with their hilarious new show created with magic legends, Penn & Teller. Raising the bar with their dare-devil stunts, jaw-dropping feats and irresis tible comedy genius, Mischief’s Magic Goes Wrong comes direct from the West End. Book your tickets now, before they vanish out of sight (or sellout!).

Penn & Teller are co-creators of the

show and won’t be appearing on

stage.

DESIGNING THE DREAM

We all agree that Preston and the Fylde is a great place to live. Helen Sanderson spoke to Joel Firth about some of the beautiful and aspirational properties that he has designed in and around the area

oel grew up in Cleveleys and was fortunate to get a scholarship to Rossall school, where his creative design and drawing abilities were nurtured. His dad was a teacher at the time also had an interest in property development which resulted in Joel spending most of his summer holidays working on renovation projects around the Fylde coast. Joel said: “My interest in construction culminated when we built our family home and I have fond memories of going to site

property high expectations. My projects are often intuitive and expressive with an underlying balance and order, focusing on materials, lights on space. Having an empathy for the clients needs ensures that I create an appropriate and responsive architecture.” There are ‘Firth’ projects all over our area but a couple that Joel is particularly proud of include 8 Church Drive in Lytham and Otter Bank, on the shores of Windermere. Joel explained: “The common element that is key to both of these projects is really the exceptional clients who’s ambitions I hope we’ve met and who’s patience and attention to detail I believe have made these properties stand out. It also goes without saying that without my team of talented and dedicated builders and craftsman, none of our projects would have been possible or finished to the high standard that has helped to build our reputation over the last 18 years.”

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HOW TO BUILD YOUR OWN HOUSE If you harbour a dream to build your own house, self-building could be a more affordable way for you to get your ideal property. But it’s not for everyone. If you don’t plan properly, you could risk getting into financial difficulty. If you’re going to build your own house you need to prepare for the fact that it’s going to take months, possibly even years, to complete. No matter how moderate your plans, it’ll be an expensive and stressful undertaking. So building your own home isn’t something you should go into lightly. When you’re building your own home, getting a good architect can be the key to making your dream home a reality. Having the right architect will mean you achieve the right, one-off design for your selfbuild home. It’ll also help make the selfbuild process as stress-free as possible.

very early in the morning helping my dad dig foundations before going to school.” After completing my university education Joel worked for a number of practices in London and Manchester before being invited to take on some private work in 2003 and shortly after set up the practice.

Over the last 18 years Joel has been very fortunate to be asked to work on interesting projects that have been challenging and rewarding. He explained: “I always strive to create unique designs that meet my client’s

Recently Joel has also developed a commercial portfolio working on projects for a National Museum, Fylde Rugby club and Lytham Cricket and Tennis Club. He balances this commercial work with charity work for Boathouse Youth. The Boathouse Youth is a children’s charity based in Blackpool that provides positive recreational and educational activities for children and young people aged 5-17. Joel explained that clients now often ask for a ‘firth’ project, and added: “I have been debating what this means and how I can provide this to our clients. I am inspired daily by this fantastic coastline we live on, we are blessed to be able to go on daily walks along the beach and respect for the environment is fundamental to my work. Current projects include zero carbon construction techniques and always improving properties to reduce energy consumption which is a seam through all of my work and my responsibility as an architect.” n

firtharchitects.com

Choosing the right architect is important. It makes sense to book initial meetings with several different architects. Discuss your requirements, ideas and plans with each. Every time you have to hire someone to work for you, you’ll pay a premium for their expertise. Choose your team carefully. Having quality, reliable tradesmen on board will help you make sure your property’s well finished. It’ll also help the build to stay on track and make everything run as smoothly as possible. Get recommendations and use review websites to find contractors that are highly regarded in your area. You can search also for builders and check their details and qualifications on the fmb.org.uk One way you could keep the costs down would be to take on some of the tasks yourself. Of course certain jobs are best left to professionals, such as installing the electrics and water system. But there are other jobs that you could take on yourself, like: plastering, interior design and decorating. You could even take on the role of project manager on your site. It’s a demanding job, and you have to have time and patience, but it would save you having to pay someone else to oversee construction.

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YOUR LOCAL ARCHITECT Introducing Peter Hitchen Architects and our availability to assist with your architectural requirements no matter how small the project

t Peter Hitchen Architects we utilise our expertise and skills to meet our clients’ objectives while offering insightful solutions, which may not have been considered or even thought possible. We offer a ‘no charge’ initial service to inspire and create confidence in moving forward. We place a big emphasis on communication to produce great design based on practical solutions, which adhere to the main principles of your brief. Our office has a fantastic youthful family

ethos and there’s no appointment necessary as our door is always open to discuss your project. Our office has ample car parking on The Sidings in Whalley and we will be delighted to offer you a seat and demonstrate our design software and our wide-ranging portfolio of local projects with the aim that you will leave stimulated and excited. We pride ourselves on our accessibility, integrity and professionalism no matter how big or small the project. We specialise in home extensions/renovations and refurbishments as well as rural conversions in the locality. I personally have over 30 years’ experience as a chartered architect working in the Ribble Valley and Lancashire and take great pride in how we work and the ability of our team to produce fantastic solutions to the specific project needs. We always ensure that additional expertise is utilised through our consultancy base should this be required as it’s vital that all the issues and potential costs are

understood at the earliest stages. We fully recognise that we need to provide the appropriate service and are able to supply the answers to your questions, as we recognise that the planning system is ever-evolving and ambiguous. Providing clarity and confidence, we are your local architect and we welcome your custom. n

Peter Hitchen Architects Ltd Marathon House, The Sidings Business Park Whalley BB7 9SE 01254 823885 info@peterhitchenarchitects.co.uk peterhitchenarchitects.co.uk @PeterHitchenArchitects peterhitchen.architects

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A beautifully-presented family home, extended to the rear and with lovely views located in the popular Lea Town. The spacious and open accommodation is finished to the highest standard and benefits from four double rooms and sits within a corner plot, ideal for outdoor entertaining!

GOOD READ Helen Sanderson reviews the latest Amazon best seller

Stop Procrastinating and Start Living – Three Books in One Gemma Ray With this issue of Live Preston & Fylde Magazine themed on well-being I thought I should invest in myself and review one of the many ‘self-help’ books that I have on the bedside table. Launched in August, Gemma Ray’s ‘Stop Procrastinating and Start Living – Three Books in One’, went straight to the top of Amazons self-help book chart. I’ve known Gemma for many years, our careers and working lives have run in similar circles. Gemma is one of those gregarious people that makes the world feel fun and light. She oozes confidence and charisma yet she’s a real creative and not the first person who springs to mind when I think about self-discipline. Gemma say’s herself that she should have a PhD in procrastination yet she has written, not one but, three books on self-discipline and those books continue to top the best seller charts helping people develop their own self-discipline strategies. I believe Gemma’s appeal, in her writing, as it is in real life, is her ‘realness’. She writes from the heart to give practical encouragement for those of us who need a hand pulling our finger out to take action and realise our potential. This is Gemma’s third self-help book and its dedicated to her readers, or more significantly the future version of her readers. This particular book is three books in one: Self Discipline, Stop Procrastinating and Start Living and Stop Procrastinating in Six Steps. It’s a no-nonsense read that teaches simple practices to make positive changes in your life. Gemma believes that we are all just products of our own repeated decisions. There is no magic trick it’s about doing the stuff we don’t really want to do, over and over again until we form habits. A simple but effective technique that she refers to as habit stacking. Self proclaiming to: “Not always having all my s*&% together”, Gemma’s down-to-earth delivery and style makes you feel like you have a friend between the pages giving you simple advice over a coffee. She continues that support for her readers through her online coaching courses and Facebook accountability groups, giving readers direct access to her no-nonsense witty retorts that makes accountability a whole lot of fun. Gemma writes the books that she professes to needing to read herself, and packages her research in a personal, fun account that is easy to read and even easier to implement. Gemma Ray is a BBC Radio presenter, best selling author, marketing and PR specialist. Catch Gemma live every Sunday from 2-6pm GMT on BBC Radio Lancashire via the BBC Sounds app, follow her on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadeeray and watch the weekly live interviews with incredible guests on Gemma Ray – Life Unfiltered on Facebook every Thursday evening. n

Outstanding achievement at every level

Students at Oakhill School in Whalley have been celebrating another record breaking set of results at GCSE: The percentage of students achieving the most prestigious grade of 9 was nearly double the number awarded nationally. Nearly half of all GCSEs were awarded at the highest levels of 7, 8 and 9 (A, A* and A**). Students achieved either one, two, three or even four levels above those predicted based on their ability in 80% of cases, whatever their ability. | oakhillschool.co.uk | 01254 823546 | Wiswell Lane, Whalley, Lancashire, BB7 9AF

Elegance is an attitude Simon Baker

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The Longines Master Collection

Longines_HQ • Visual: SB11_MC32 • Magazine: Leonard_Dews • Issue: 17/08/2021 •