Live Preston & Fylde Issue 113 June/July 2023

LONG LIVE LYTHAM CLUB DAY! SUMMER CELEBRATIONS

JEWEL IN THE CROWN CLOSURE OF HISTORIC STORE

LASTING LEGACY ZANZIBAR VOLUNTEERS

TREASURE TROVE ARTEFACTS DISCOVERED

Crafted for Humans

Our Italian heritage brings the exquisiteness of the Italian soul to the world. We have a bright vision, always ready to capture the most unique desires for beauty and comfort. Our quality lies in the hard-working hands of our craftsmen, and we’re passionate about our respect for others and the environment.

Refresh Your Home with our Latest Collection of designer sofas, furnishings & accessories. Spring into action and bring Natuzzi style, comfort and innovation into your home. Our unique and extraordinary know-how is developed from over 60 years experience. Enjoy the quality which lies in the skilled hands of our craftsmen and the very best of Italian design for you.

CONTENTS

12 JEWEL IN THE CROWN

Stepping back from his respected jewellery business, Michael Hyman heads for retirement after a glittering career.

68 LONG LIVE CLUB DAY

Anne Aitken vice-chair of Lytham Club Day and Rose Queen Festival, reflects on Club Day history and looks at the positives and negatives of future events.

74 TREASURE TROVE

A collection of medical artefacts and literature has been discovered providing a unique insight into early 20th century health care.

124 EPIC ADVENTURE

Endurance athlete Jordan Wyn-Jones is gearing up for an epic challenge. He is currently training for a 1700k run, walk and cycle, which he hopes will be a record-breaker!

134 IN THE WILD

Professional artist Michael Demain has travelled the globe to observe wildlife, but one of his favourite places is in the heart of the Lancashire countryside.

LIVE MAGAZINES

Chairman: Simon Smith

Managing Director: Tedd Walmsley

Company Secretary: Elizabeth Walmsley

Editor: Jan Woolley

Graphic Designers: Nick Dittrich and Rob Walmsley

Operations Manager: Kate Hyde

Production Manager: James Britton

Photography: Peter Austin and Roger Moore

Sales Account Manager: Jane Hughes 07875 696 928

Editorial Contributors: Paul Agnew, Gail Bailey, Kate Bowyer, Meena McDonald, Lucy Newton, Catherine Robinson and Sarah Ulyatt

Live Magazines Limited Office 9, 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.

Editor

Well, the last week or so has really confirmed summer is on its way. The sun has been shining and gardens are blooming. It’s a wonderful time of year when everything comes to life.

In this month’s Live Preston & Fylde magazine, we celebrate all that is good about the region.

From the coast to the city, we meet some interesting and inspirational people. Among them is Blackpool businessman Michael Hyman, well known in the world of fine watches and exquisite diamonds. Michael has been a jeweller since joining the family business in 1968. However, the company was established long before that – Leonard Dews was founded in 1877 when Queen Victoria was on the throne, making it one of the region’s oldest jewellers. Fast forward to 2023 and with Michael set to retire, the store is to close, bringing to an end a golden era.

Moving away from the coast, we put the spotlight on Fulwood, home to the Lancashire Infantry Museum, which houses one of the largest and most important collections in the country. As well as Fulwood’s history, we take a look at some of the town’s independent businesses and looking ahead, there’s an exciting line-up of sporting, musical and cultural events coming up over the summer months.

Also in this issue, we meet a team of volunteers from Preston North End Community and Education Trust, who have recently returned from a trip to Stone Town in Zanzibar where they helped renovate a local school. Many volunteers have described the trip as humbling – the young pupils always had a smile on their faces, despite having little or no equipment or belongings.

Endurance sportsman Jordan Wyn-Jones is also hoping to help others by raising money for the British Heart Foundation. He will soon be embarking on what he hopes to be a record-breaking challenge –walking and running from Brighton to Glasgow – then cycling back. Along the way he will be joined by celebrities and members of the public to raise funds for this good cause.

As we head into summer, we hope you enjoy this inspirational issue of Live Preston & Fylde magazine!

Jan Woolley Editor

Part of the Live Magazines portfolio, including Live Ribble Valley

Live Preston & Fylde Lytham Club Day 2022

Photographer: Roger Moore

LUTRON’S PALLADIOM WIRE-FREE SHADING SYSTEM

The intelligent system delivering the ultimate in design freedom –a stunning blend of beauty, flexibility and performance without sacrifice.

These blinds are intended to be installed without a pocket, fascia or top treatment.

Powered by batteries integrated into the blind itself, this solution is ideal for situations where wired is not an option.

RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SOLUTIONS THAT PUT YOU IN CONTROL.

Bernard Dickinson, 13 Beech Drive, Fulwood, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 3NB

01772 862 266

bernarddickinson.co.uk

andrew@bernarddickinson.co.uk

TIMELINE:

1877 Leonard Dews opened in Blackpool

1910 Leonard Dews moved to Market Street

1925 Hymans moved to the corner of Church Street; the lease was £400 a year

On May 14th 1894 The Blackpool Tower opened to the world to much fanfare

1924 David Hyman and brothers opened the first Hyman Shop in Feldmans Arcade, Blackpool

Photography: Roger Moore

with his family to the Isle of Man, where he settled in 1923 and set up a small shop,” explains Michael, who in his spare time is a model railway enthusiast.

“Two years later, he got the opportunity to start another business in Blackpool. The family moved, arriving on a paddle steamer at the North Pier in 1924 and setting up a modest retail outlet in Feldmans Arcade – originally on a box topped with velvet, from which my father would sell watches. Trade was successful and my father was soon able to take a lease on 18 Church Street for £400 per year.

“With an innate flair for business, he opened a number of stores over the years. He bought Leonard Dews in 1959 and the business thrived. At its peak we had 11 successful jewellery stores including locations in Birmingham, Liverpool, Jersey, Manchester and the Isle of Man, trading

JEWEL IN THE CROWN

under the names Hymans, Leonard Dews and Wilkins.”

Michael Hyman, a well-respected member of Blackpool’s retail community and owner of one of the oldest jewellers in the region, has announced the closure of Leonard Dews. With over 140 years’ of history and heritage to celebrate, it is the end of a golden era for the store which has been renowned as a retailer of the world’s finest watches and exquisite jewellery.

When Leonard Dews was established in Blackpool in 1877, Queen Victoria was on the throne and Benjamin Disraeli was Prime Minister. Over 146 years later, led by owner Michael and his expert, knowledgeable team, the Leonard Dews name has become synonymous with superior quality and exemplary customer service.

Local historians may know that Leonard Dews’ iconic Church Street store predates Blackpool Tower and is widely known throughout the UK as having an enviable

reputation for high-class diamonds.

In 1959 the business was bought by the current owners, another local jewellery family business, Hymans: “My father David Hyman was originally from Liverpool and was born in 1899. After the war he grew despondent with the deprivation in the area and moved along

Michael, who joined the family business 55 years ago to support his father, adds: “I grew up here in Blackpool and came into the business in 1968. I was required to learn my trade on the job, guided by my father’s expert hand,” recalls Michael.

“My father, who passed away in 1977, was hugely knowledgeable about diamonds and taught me everything I needed to know. He was a natural entrepreneur and had an innate understanding of what would sell. I was always fascinated by watches, so I went to Switzerland to understand how the finest quality watches were manufactured. This further fired my passion and watches are really what I have focused on throughout my career.”

When recession hit in the 1980s the business was pared back and transferred to the flagship Leonard Dews store in Blackpool. With a strong local reputation for high-end diamonds, Leonard Dews weathered the economic storm and subsequently, continued to flourish. In 2000 the store was relocated to its current corner location, into a building which had previously been a Hymans store.

Stepping back from his respected jewellery business, model railway enthusiast and expert Michael Hyman heads for retirement after a glittering career

1959 David Hyman and brothers bought Leonard Dews

1999 Leonard Dews moved on to the corner plot

1984 The Hyman jeweller’s shop merged with Leonard Dews, closing the store on the corner of Church Street

2004 Leonard Dews became Patek Philippe authorised stockists

THE FAMILY MOVED, ARRIVING ON A PADDLE STEAMER AT THE NORTH PIER IN 1924

The business capitalised on local knowledge, keen marketing, exceptional quality and superior service and went from strength to strength. Leonard Dews was expanded and refurbished, taking on several high-end watch brands, including Patek Philippe, TAG Heuer, Omega, Bremont and Chopard.

Leonard Dews launched its own exclusive bridal collections – the Signature Collection and the Hidden Diamond Collection, featuring engagement rings, wedding rings, eternity rings, pendants and earrings. Focused on quality and style, every diamond

in these ranges has been hand-picked by a team of experts and manufactured from the finest materials.

In addition branded jewellery including Fope, Chopard, Gucci and Georg Jensen were added to the mix.

experience, despite the restrictions.”

After a long, successful and rich history, dating back almost 150 years, the family business is very close to Michael’s heart. Heading for retirement and with no one to take over the store, he needed to make a difficult decision about the future: “My team and I have worked incredibly hard to take Leonard Dews to where it is today. We have shared our dedication and passion with our customers, who have supported us over many years. During my career I have seen the highs and lows of jewellery retail and ultimately, I have made the emotional decision to hang up my loupe and call time on this much-loved family business.

“My first concern was for my staff and I have been supporting them as much as possible to find new roles. I am keen that they go on to positions, which will be right for their personal circumstances and their career.

“After 55 years in the business, I very much want to have the opportunity to say goodbye to customers, many whom I have known for years and have become friends. Generations of families have shopped with us and we have shared special occasions with them – engagements, marriages, birthdays, anniversaries and births. It has been an absolute privilege to be part of their lives at these special times and I am certain that many people will be sad to hear that Leonard Dews will be no more,” says Michael.

“I will be here throughout the closing down sale, to thank our customers for their unwavering support and valued custom over the years.” n

“In the last eight to 10 years, customers have been incredibly interested in our offering of luxury watches.

“We have continued to build the business and even throughout the lockdown, when we were able to trade, we found ourselves very busy. Customers were keen to shop locally and we went above and beyond with our service to ensure we could provide the Leonard Dews

Leonard Dews

18 Church Street,

FY1 1EW

2008 Michael Hyman purchased the whole block including the original Leonard Dews, Hyman stores and Sam Lyons Jewellers on 14-16 Church Street

2017 Leonard Dews has a complete shop re-fit

2012 Leonard Dews extended the shop to include both the original Hyman and Leonard Dews stores

2023 Michael Hyman makes the tough decision to close down the store ahead of his retirement

The Leonard Dews closing down sale will commence at 10am on Saturday 3rd June. All jewellery will be discounted by 50 per cent including diamond rings and diamond jewellery, coloured stone pieces, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, pearls and silver items. All branded jewellery and watches will be discounted by 25 per cent. All pieces will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis and the closing down sale will last until stock is sold.

No Patek Philippe watches, or associated products, will be available as part of the closing down sale.

Blackpool

AFTER 55 YEARS IN THE BUSINESS, I VERY MUCH WANT TO HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO SAY GOODBYE TO CUSTOMERS

PERSONA BAMBOO MIRROR £189 cuckooland.com

SECRET DRAWER LUXURY BATHROOM £POA

Victoria & Albert Toulouse freestanding bath, Samuel Heath mixer taps in Fairfield, underfloor heating with Calcatta Viola marble tiles, floor to ceiling sash windows and handcrafted panelling finished in Farrow & Ball Brassica. The Secret Drawer The Old Chapel Sawley Street Skipton BD23 1SX secret-drawer.co.uk

EICHHOLTZ DEVON BATHROOM RACK £570 sweetpeaandwillow.com

REST & RELAXATION

Make your bathroom a haven of peace, quiet and pure luxury with these delightful and practical accessories

LAUFEN LUA BASIN WITH LANI FURNITURE £POA

MACERARI MARBLE BATHROOM BIN £75 sazy.com

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

CHARLOTTE STRIPED

TURKISH COTTON BATH TOWEL £16 sazy.com

CIRC SCULPTURAL WALL OR CEILING LUMINAIRE FROM £574 kok.lighting

The Original Bathroom Company 84 Liverpool Road Longton, Preston PR4 5NB originalmathroomcompany.co.uk

REFILLABLE BATHROOM BOTTLES £7.50 thewisteriastree.co.uk

EICHHOLTZ DEBONAIR LAMP £1120 sweetpeaandwillow.com

Showroom by appointment only

Showroom address: 13 Cable Court, Pittman Way, Fulwood, Preston PR2 9YW

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.

COLOUR DRENCH YOUR HOME

Heritage paint brand Farrow & Ball has once again delivered a ground-breaking new product, Dead Flat ®, a super-matt paint finish that colour drenches walls, ceilings, woodwork and radiators

This spring, paint and wallpaper maker Farrow & Ball has unveiled its most revolutionary finish to date – the all-new Dead Flat®

The latest, industry-leading innovation from this heritage brand is its most matt finish ever and multi-surface too, suitable for walls, woodwork and metal. The ultimate choice for colour drenching, the completely flat look surrounds spaces in richer, uninterrupted colour from ceiling

to skirting board and even over radiators. Charlotte Cosby, Creative Director at Farrow & Ball, comments: “Dead Flat® is a unique combination of truly fantastic features –it’s matt, durable and multi-surface. The super matt quality has the incredible effect of making our colours look even richer, especially the darker shades. We’re thrilled to launch this exciting new finish and I can’t wait to see it transform our customers’ homes all over the world.”

The new Dead Flat® formulation has been refined by the technical experts at Farrow & Ball in Dorset over the last five years. The ability to create such an incredibly matt and impressively durable product is thanks to a breakthrough ingredient, which is combined with a precise blend of other, quality paint ingredients to deliver the signature Farrow & Ball look with reimagined chemistry. Now scuff-resistant, washable and wipeable, Dead Flat® creates beautiful spaces that stay beautiful.

Dead Flat® boasts just a two per cent sheen, which dramatically minimises light bounce, so the eye only sees colour from every angle. Not only does this increase how rich the colour appears, but it also minimises imperfections. As Dead Flat® is multi-surface, you can seamlessly extend colour across your walls, ceiling, woodwork, less commonly used furniture and radiators with just one finish. Dead Flat® is a practical and aesthetic choice as it’s washable and wipeable. This durability makes it ideal for high-traffic areas like hallways and playrooms, and like all Farrow & Ball finishes, Dead Flat® is water based and low odour too.

Patrick O’Donnell, a colour expert and Brand Ambassador at Farrow & Ball, added: “Whether you want colour saturation in a space or just to create a seamless matt flow of finish through your home, Dead Flat® delivers all with its eminent practicality. You can create the illusion of more space in a bedroom through painted wardrobes to match the walls or hide utilitarian radiators in your chosen Dead Flat® colour, it’s a decorators dream.” n

farrow-ball.com

Local stockist: rockform.co.uk

OFFERS IN-STORE 2023 celebrating 16 years of beautiful living

PAD showroom exhibits the best in good quality, beautiful designed, well-crafted European furniture.

Showcasing pieces from French Gauier, Connibia-Calligaris, Akante, Italia Living and Nicoletti and more, shipped from some of the finest manufactures on the continent. The clean lines and smooth edges make up a collection of pure design classics which are all hand picked by owner and interior stylist, Paula Baxter. PAD offer a free design service from rooms to a full house including bed design, lighting and fitted wardrobes.

PAD showroom exhibits the best in good quality, beautiful designed, well-crafted European furniture. Showcasing pieces from French Gauier, Connibia-Calligaris, Himolla, Rossetto and more, shipped from some of the finest manufactures on the continent. The clean lines and smooth edges make up a collection of pure design classics which are all hand picked by owner and interior stylist, Paula Baxter. PAD offer a free design service from rooms to a full house including bed design, lighting and fitted wardrobes. They also offer in the showroom a collection of all weather innovative garden furniture for outdoor living.

‘At

01253 893334

PADCL.CO.UK

FAMILY VALUES

the back and she was thrilled with it!”

Over many years company chairman Mike Davies and his family have had a long association with Croft, a leading manufacturer and suppliers of windows, doors, orangeries and garden rooms.

“It was my late mother-in-law, who started the tradition,” recalls Mike. “Many years ago, she needed to replace the windows in her bungalow and Croft made such a good job of it she went on to have a conservatory built at

John Croft and his team made a lasting impression on Mike. With their skilled workmanship and their ability to come up with great ideas, Mike turned to Croft when

Services to Business and to Disadvantaged Children. He is the founder and chairman of the Principle Trust Children’s Charity, which to date has given 4,600 children holidays in Blackpool and the Lake District, since the charity was founded by Mike back in 2011.

Mike, who was also the founder and former CEO of Principle Healthcare, is now semi-retired: “The businessman in me always gets two quotes when we are having any work carried out and Croft have

he and his wife Brenda moved to a new home in the lovely village of Grimsargh, where they decided to have an orangery built: “The team at Croft really inspired me with confidence –they listen to your ideas then add to them, which I like.

“Croft also took care of all the legals – the planning permission and building regulations for the orangery, which was great,” adds Mike, who was awarded the MBE in 2018 for

A company founded back in 1874, continues to impress with its skilled team of craftsman and traditional customer service

THE TEAM AT CROFT REALLY INSPIRED ME WITH CONFIDENCE – THEY LISTEN TO YOUR IDEAS THEN ADD TO THEM

always been really competitive.”

When the orangery at the Grimsargh house was complete, Mike and his wife were thrilled: “We virtually lived in it!”

So, it came as no surprise, when one of Mike’s two sons turned to Croft when he needed to replace a conservatory at his home in Ilkley: “Even though the team were having to travel 35 to 40 miles each day, it was worth it for the quality workmanship,” says Mike, who with Brenda, decided to make their own move over the Lancashire Yorkshire border.

grounds with a more contemporary pod: “John suggested we visit Holden Clough in the Ribble Valley, where there is a Croft pod in situ. We visited and were really impressed –so much so we are having one constructed by Croft, starting at the end of this month.”

recommend Croft. The culture of the business, which has been passed down the generations, is very much in keeping with our ethos. It’s a traditional firm with traditional values – providing quality products, skilled craftsmanship and fantastic customer service!”

Needing replacement windows in their new Ilkley house, he asked John Croft to advise on the work: “He came up with lots of suggestions including going with grey UPVC on the outside and white on the inside, which we would never have thought of. We went ahead and replaced around 20 windows, which could have been pretty disruptive and messy, but the workmen were exceptional. Nothing was too much trouble.”

Eighteen months ago, another move was on the cards: “We’ve just moved again and this is definitely our final move!” adds Mike, who wanted to replace a garden room in the

The new rectangular garden room with its span of glass bi-fold doors, will be located in a south-facing position: “I suspect it’s going to become a favourite place in the summer, when we can sit out and enjoy an evening tipple in the sunshine – it’s going to be very pleasant,” adds Mike, who spends much of his spare time working for his charity. Speaking about the family’s experience with Croft, Mike adds: “I wouldn’t hesitate to

Croft’s current owner, John Croft, is a fifth-generation descendant of Thomas Croft, who founded the business in 1874. Reflecting on the work carried out for the Davies family, he says: “At Croft we pride ourselves on our knowledge, expertise and craftsmanship, which has been honed over many years. Much of our business comes from recommendations and the projects for the whole Davies family certainly did! It is a pleasure to work with them.” n

Showroom: Croft Complete Homes Ltd

6 Pittman Court

Pittman Way, Preston PR2 9ZG 01772 703777

sales@croftconservatories.co.uk

croftconservatories.co.uk

croftgardenbuildings.co.uk

THE WORKMEN WERE EXCEPTIONAL. NOTHING WAS TOO MUCH TROUBLE

Making your furniture beautiful again

A local, family business who have been helping to rejuvenate homes throughout the UK for the past 60 years.

Our unique in-home service is reliable, friendly and trusted to help guide you on any of our services... Reupholstery Sofa & chair covers Curtains

All products are handmade by expert craftspeople right here in Lancashire.

Visit

Creativity knows no bounds…

Artist Nick Dittrich creates original artworks using a variety of mediums (acrylic, charcoal, graphite, pastel and chalk) or anything else –object trouvé, bottle tops, purchase receipts and micro shredded banknotes.

To purchase, or to commission an artwork call: 01279 861863 / 07909 850462 email: endartistuk @ gmail.com

His latest collection are collages from recycled billboards and dry transfer lettering with original wording. He said about the artworks: “The large scale halftone printing, the torn forms, vivid colours and ripped edges are ideal to create purely abstract expressions, as opposed to the original advertising images.”

view his gallery visit: www.endarts.co.uk

AND FOLIAGE FRAGRANT FLOWERS

We will soon be in June, a lovely month to be in the garden –everything is bursting into bloom and you can really enjoy being outside

With the evenings getting longer and brighter you can use your garden or patio as a great extension to your home – whether it’s in the countryside or in a smaller, but equally treasured, urban environment.

It’s also traditionally the time to plant out bedding plants which are so much part of the floral display of a summer garden. However, in addition to looking good, some plants also taste good. Herbs have some of the most beautiful flowers in the garden and are edible.

So, thrifty tip for the month is, if you plant a selection of flowering edible herbs you will have a beautiful garden good enough to eat! You can make any herb produce more flowers by planting them in a well drained site or container in a sunny location. When planting a herb that you want to flower use some organic compost and feed in the planting hole then plant the herb, water at the base and keep the soil moist throughout the growing season. Along with basil, sage and mint, chives are delightful edible treats with beautiful flowers and make lovely pollinator plants.

You could also let your herbs bolt – when the plant changes from being mainly leaf-based to a plant that has mostly flowers and stems. Once a herb has bolted, when the weather gets hot and dry, it loses its flavour and produces flowers that are rich with nectar that attract bees and butterflies. If you want to attract moths, then try plants with white flowers that release their scent in the evening such as tobacco plants or night-scented stocks.

over winter. Cuttings can be taken in late summer. Popular varieties include Attar of Roses with pale green foliage, a rosy aroma and pink flowers, Prince of Orange with a strong orange scent and pale purple and white flowers and Deerwood Lavender Lass a semi-trailing plant with olive green leaves and rosy-mauve flowers.

The extra light and warmth this month encourages the garden to put on an exuberant burst of growth – especially fruit trees. n

RHS GARDENER’S JUNE CHECKLIST

• Tie in climbing or rambling roses

• Pinch out side shoots on tomatoes

• Mow lawns at least once a week

Another aromatic addition to the garden is the scented-leaved pelargonium – commonly known as geranium – that brings foliage, fragrance and flowers to any outside space. There are a variety of fragrances – lemon, rose, lavender, cinnamon, apple – created from natural oils within the leaves that are released when brushed with fingers or hands, and sometimes after a summer shower. Scentedleaved pelargoniums are best grown in containers in the sunny position. They can withstand chills outside especially if grown next to a house wall, but not frosts and if temperatures dip, they are best brought inside

• Recycle grass clippings

• Begin feeding potted flowers

• Protect brassicas from cabbage white caterpillars

• Plant out dahlias

• Be water wise and try to use grey water in the garden

• Watch out for mould on fruit, especially strawberries

• Weed regularly

SAFE, SUSTAINABLE, STATE- OF-THE- ART DRIVEWAYS

Resin-bound driveways: a modern, eco-friendly alternative

Oltco’s resin bound driveways are fully water permeable. There is no environmental run-off, making them Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) compliant. Resin bound driveways are also safe. They retain very little surface water, ensuring that they are slip-resistant in all weathers. They have no loose stones and 99 per cent of weeds won’t push through a resin bound drive, ensuring they are low maintenance.

Every Oltco driveway comes with a 20-year guarantee, but because Oltco uses proven, high-quality materials the customer can expect an even greater longevity than that. Oltco aims to lay a driveway within a week with minimal disruption.

Not only is Oltco a trusted, established, award-winning, UK-wide company, it also uses recycled waste plastic in its resin bound driveways, thereby helping to alleviate the world’s waste plastic problem – every square metre of resin bound driveway laid, is the recycled equivalent of 3000 plastic straws!

A s well as all its other benefits, you’re making an ethical and sustainable choice when you opt for an Oltco driveway. n

YOU’RE MAKING AN ETHICAL AND SUSTAINABLE CHOICE WHEN YOU OPT FOR AN OLTCO DRIVEWAY

featuring

HAROLD RILEY

JAMES LAWRENCE ISHERWOOD

WILLIAM RALPH TURNER

PETER BROOK

ARTHUR DELANEY

Indulge your artistic passion and visit the newly opened Northern Art Lounge at the Hepplestone Fine Art gallery. Now showcasing original artworks by leading members of the Northern Art movement including the iconic L S Lowry and Salford’s Geoffrey Key. “A haven for all lovers of the Northern Art genre”

SALE STARTS TUESDAY 3 JANUARY 2023 - ENDS SUNDAY 8

MULTI AWARD WINNER UK RETAIL ART GALLERY OF THE YEAR

Specialists in collectable original paintings, limited edition prints and sculpture by leading northern and international artists

www.hepplestonefineart.com

LIMITED ITEMS ONLY AVAILABLE IN OUR 2022 SALE, SEE THE FULL RANGE ON-LINE OR VISIT US IN THE GALLERY /hepplestone.art @hepplestoneart @hepplestoneart

THE GALLERY - WE ARE 5 MINUTES FROM JUNCTION 27 OFF THE M6 OPEN 6 DAYS WITH AMPLE FREE PARKING OR BUY ON-LINE WITH FREE UK MAINLAND DELIVERY

Hall Shopping Village, Wood

and around the corner to the master bedroom. We therefore had to lift the carpet to the second storey of the house and post it through the balcony doors. That might sound simple, but it took five of the team to get it up there!”

For the ground floor, which incorporated the lounge, kitchen, dining area, hallway and small cloakroom, our client selected Amtico Form Parquet Rural Oak.

The Amtico Form Parquet Rural Oak is an elegantly textured luxury vinyl tile (LVT). With its gloriously golden, honey-toned oak, it creates a warm and welcoming space and

WE’VE GOT IT COVERED

Agorgeous and very rewarding project Gainsborough Flooring recently delivered for a client after they had undertaken a major refurbishment of their entire home, meant we were able to be creative in our approach whilst also considering all the practicalities.

Flooring was required for the entirety of the property with two bedrooms on the top floor, the stairs and landing, plus the complete ground floor incorporating the lounge, kitchen, dining room, hallway and toilet.

Our client was familiar with our service, having played rugby with our very own Eddy Brown for many years. Following numerous productive meetings to discuss ideas for each space and establishing the style and colourways the client was considering, we came up with

various options for them to contemplate. For the bedrooms, the landing and stairs the client opted for Cormar Sensation Heather Bergen Frost.

With a dense, thick and soft pile, the Bergen Frost Sensation Heather carpet adds a cosy and relaxing feel to any room.

can be used in a range of laying pattern configurations, creating a unique space.

Our client commented: “We’re absolutely delighted with the end result and are really pleased we went with a border for the lounge after discussing this with the Gainsborough team. It was great to work with them throughout the whole project, including their attentive and meticulous fitters and the brilliant before and after customer service from the rest of the team.”

The distinctive flecked pile uses two shades of grey in its two-ply Saxony tufts to create a great looking carpet that works well with many room styles and furnishings. The heathered colour can help reduce the appearance of foot marks, which is ideal for well-used areas.

Eddy Brown, Contracts Manager at Gainsborough Flooring commented: “One of the challenges our team faced was to get the carpet upstairs to the bedroom, as we weren’t able to get it through the front door, up the stairs

The client has received tremendous feedback from family and friends visiting their home, who have been more than impressed at the incredible transformation the flooring makes to the space. It even works perfectly for dogs with mucky paws!

Why not contact Gainsborough Flooring and see how they can transform your home? n

Gainsborough Flooring

26 Heatley Street, Preston PR1 2XB 01772 250682

vicky@gainsboroughflooring.co.uk

gainsboroughflooring.co.uk

Meena McDonald explains how the team at Gainsborough Flooring meticulously planned and executed a project to renew all the flooring in a client’s home – with stunning results!

BATHROOMS TO BOAST ABOUT

Photography:

Spring is the season to show one of the most important rooms in our homes a bit of TLC. Whether it’s a new home, refresh or complete redesign, a welcoming bathroom which works for your household, is worth its weight in gold.

The experts at Preston Plumbing Supplies know this all too well. With over 30 years’ experience, every detail is thoughtfully covered, from dimensions and design, to fixtures, fittings and outstanding aftersales care.

Talking of gold, did you know that it’s one of 2023’s hot new trends? Step into Preston Plumbing’s spacious, modern showroom on Brookfield Street to discover beautifully laid out room sets, showcasing the latest designs, colours and innovations. Traditional, contemporary, retro or indulgent, whatever your style and budget, you’ll find inspiration at every turn.

The new showroom is the perfect place to browse at your leisure and friendly, knowledgeable staff are on hand to help with those all-important decisions. No steering or sales pitches here – simply expertise and understanding every step of the way to make your dream bathroom a reality.

Going the extra mile for customers for more than three decades has earned Preston

Plumbing Supplies their enviable reputation and feedback, word-of-mouth recommendations, proudly posted pictures on social media which invite ‘like! like! like!’ responses and long-standing repeat customers.

Showcasing stunning trends for dark colours like forest green, midnight blue and statement black, styled to showstopping effect from classic to cutting-edge and set off to perfection with those on-trend gold or brass taps and handles.

Proud to be a one-stop-service for everything bathroom related, the team can create a bespoke bathroom to your room’s dimensions, including clever space-saving, budget-friendly and resource-saving technologies.

With plentiful parking and free trade accounts available, professional and DIY fitters alike can take advantage of the trade counter’s extensive range of fixtures, fittings and tools, or use of their recommended list of tried and trusted fitters.

Creating the perfect room to refresh you for the day, or relax you for a good night’s sleep, your dream bathroom is awaiting you at Preston Plumbing Supplies. n

Staying at the forefront of trends and innovations, you’ll discover exciting new displays and designers on every visit. Established brands including Crosswater and HiB have just been joined by new ranges from Roca and Burlington.

Preston Plumbing Supplies Brookfield Street, Preston PR1 1NR 01772 203202 prestonplumbingsupplies.com PrestonPlumbingSuppliesLtd

From single washers to compact cloakrooms and high-end bathrooms, combined with world-class customer service, Preston Plumbing Supplies’ stunning ‘one-stop’ showroom has it covered, writes Kate Bowyer.

Roger Moore

CREATING THE PERFECT ROOM TO REFRESH YOU FOR THE DAY, OR RELAX YOU FOR A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP, YOUR DREAM BATHROOM IS AWAITING YOU

BEAUTIFUL BATHROOMS

Roca Ona unit with basin and shelf. This is shown with a self-coloured accessory set to complement. Roca Ona wall hung pan and soft close seat and Roca Ona corner bath made from Surfex - a solid surface gel coat bath and looks stunning: £POA. Preston

Utopia freestanding Dove Grey curved unit and Orbitz round mirror: £POA.

CIRC impresses as a sculptural wall or ceiling luminaire with artfully arranged circular surfaces and luminous intersections. Price: from £574.

01772 977677

www.kok.lighting

James Kok Lighting

Inspired by the beautiful qualities of organic materials, Amtico Signature Tempus is influenced by the softly mottled textures of stone and ceramic. Tempus offers a modern, natural aesthetic and works with a wide range of laying patterns. With six neutral hues this is perfect for any interior. Price: £75 per square metre, Gainsborough Flooring

26 Heatley Street

Preston PR1 2XB

01772 250682

gainsboroughflooring.co.uk

Be inspired in our 3000 sq ft showroom. Open Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm by appointment only. Evening appointments are also available upon request.

Please call 01772 611622 or email showroom@originalbathroomcompany.co.uk www.theoriginalbathroomcompany.co.uk

CELEBRATING 75 YEARS OF TRADING

One of Preston’s oldest hardware businesses is drawing up plans to celebrate its 75th anniversary this year – and everyone is invited!

Photography: Roger Moore

Blundell’s Hardware on Liverpool Road in Longton, has been welcoming customers since 1948, providing generations of South Ribble residents with all their hardware and household needs including cookware, cleaning products, paint, decorating sundries, DIY, gardening, electrical and plumbing supplies. This independent retailer places a huge focus on customer service and satisfaction, as well as competitive prices and a close relationship with the local community.

75th anniversary weekend

Blundell’s owner Nick Thompson and his team are inviting customers and local residents to join in their 75th anniversary celebrations over a special weekend on 3rd and 4th June 2023. There will be lots of special offers including money off interior and exterior paint, ladders, gardening supplies, a steam iron and plenty more. There’s also a free tombola plus a chance to win a Tower Dual Basket Air Fryer, worth

£299 RRP, in a free prize draw! The winner of which, will be announced on Saturday 16th September, the anniversary of Blundell’s first day of business in 1948.

Nick said: “We pride ourselves on our long history and close connections to the Longton community and are delighted to host the celebration weekend in June. We appreciate that our past is part of what makes Blundell’s so special. Whilst we aim to be innovative and forward-thinking, it’s old traditions, excellent customer service, a personal touch and competitive prices that will always be at the forefront of our amazing shop.”

The history of Blundells

With a unique story stretching back to the post-war era in 1948, the hardware shop was originally set up by Ronnie Blundell, who left his trade as a barber and started a delivery round from the back of an ageing wagon, trading as ‘R. Blundell – Ironmonger’. Instantly successful, Ronnie quickly upgraded to a ‘step-inside’ mobile shop in a converted coach, which did the rounds on the streets of Longton and surrounding villages for several years.

Ronnie’s wife Lynn soon got involved, selling items from their home in Walmer Bridge, alongside the delivery round. In 1958, the extra sales prompted the search for a shop for Lynn to run – along with her sister, Irene. The original Chapel Lane shop in Longton was leased to Blundell’s by the Booth family,

OUR STAFF TRY HARD TO OFFER THE BEST ADVICE WE CAN ON EVERYTHING FROM GARDENING TO THE RIGHT CHOICE OF PAINT BRUSH AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN

who then owned the adjacent shop, on the understanding that Booths would one day extend into it. As the business grew, Ronnie eventually sold his coach to a local greengrocer and joined his family indoors. Over the next decade additional staff were taken on, including son, Graham, who initially joined

the business part-time whilst completing an engineering apprenticeship.

When the time came for Blundell’s to move on, Ronnie was quick to secure prestigious new premises nearby. In February 1971 business was transferred to the former

homes

Co-op building on Liverpool Road – from where it still trades to this day.

In 1978, a year before Ronnie’s retirement, the company changed its trading name to Blundell’s Hardware. Shortly after, Graham, his wife Denise and their excellent team took over running of the shop. The two remaining original staff members – Ronnie’s wife Lynn and her sister Irene, retired in the early 1990s. Inspired by the fine Victorian shop frontages on Lord Street, Southport, in 1992, the iconic Blundell’s shop front canopy was installed to Graham’s design and specification.

Following Graham’s retirement in 2015, the business is now owned by Nick Thompson, who is committed to retaining and celebrating the history and heritage of this local highstreet staple offering the same great service and personal touch that Ronnie and Lynn instilled back in 1948.

Outstanding customer service

Nick and his team are passionate about the business and service they provide across South Ribble and beyond: “We always aim to leave our customers with a smile on their face. Our staff try hard to offer the best advice we can on everything from gardening to the right choice of paint brush and everything in between. We offer a carry to car service to anyone requiring help with heavy or bulky items and have a no quibble returns policy so that you can buy in peace of mind should anything go wrong.”

Blundell’s Hardware 159-161 Liverpool Road Longton PR4 5AB 01772 612365

SUMMER CASUALS

Fardon waxed suede shoe in Sand £165 LANX Unit 29-30 Mitton Road Business Park Whalley BB7 9YE lanxshoes.com

McLaren 3D printed graphite sunglasses £500 The Spectacle Factory Unit 1 Dewhurst Road Bamber Bridge Preston PR5 6BB 01772 312213 thespectaclefactory.com

Frames by BOZ, available to wear in-store as part of our Virtual Try On collection

SMOOTHER & BRIGHTER

Often with no downtime, the latest cosmetic treatments use 21st century science and technology to achieve stunning results

Want to look refreshed and rejuvenated? These days it’s all about ‘tweakments’ –small cosmetic adjustments that will leave skin smoother, eyes twinkling and a bright smile that reflects inner happiness.

There are numerous aesthetic practitioners who can help and offer expert advice on how you can achieve the look you want. The majority are of a mindset that treatments need to be subtle so you don’t look like a different version of yourself – just you, but brighter and fresher.

Whether it’s wrinkle smoothing treatments to eliminate and soften frown lines or laser treatment to brighten and firm, it is vital you

get an expert, with in-depth knowledge to administer these cosmetic treatments safely in a medical environment.

stimulates new collagen while improving skin elasticity. The energy produced by the radio frequency is capable of targeting the deeper layers of the skin so results are more noticeable.

Specialist facial treatments are suitable and beneficial for most skin types, even sensitive skin and can target uneven skin tone, excess oil, dehydrated skin and fine lines. These treatments leave skin instantly and noticeably smoother and plumper.

Practitioners are increasingly advising clients to have non-surgical treatments that result in a natural but noticeable improvement in skin texture.

This can involve treatments to boost collagen to firm and brighten skin – some use a non-invasive radio frequency which

Nowadays, most non-invasive treatments require no downtime either, which is always an added bonus!

Whichever treatment you choose, you should always be offered a consultation with a qualified practitioner before you make a decision and go ahead. Choosing the right treatment is vital – so rest assured you will look and feel rejuvenated! n

THESE TREATMENTS LEAVE SKIN INSTANTLY AND NOTICEABLY SMOOTHER AND PLUMPER

REGAIN YOUR YOUTHFUL LOOKS WITH CONFIDENCE

Emma Pearce at EMA Skin Aesthetics is one of the most sought after, experienced and highly skilled aesthetic specialists in Lancashire. Her aim is to achieve life-changing results, and she has dedicated decades to mastering the safest, most effective and least intrusive treatments available.

With an approval rate of 99.9 per cent across thousands of clients, you couldn’t really ask for more validation of her skills and success.

Two of the most popular anti-ageing treatments are:

• PlasmaPen which is perfect for tightening and erasing sagging jowls, turkey necks, marionette lines, smile and smokers’ lines around the lips, crow’s feet, puffy eyes, drooping eyelids, chest lines and more.

• 7 D Focused Ultrasound, which features the latest non-surgical technology using High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound and MicroMacro Focused Ultrasound (MMFU) to deliver a non-invasive face, neck and body lifting treatment. It is best known for tightening skin with optimal results and is a non-surgical and painless replacement for facelifts. It boosts collagen production giving a firmer and natural rejuvenating effect to the skin. With little to no down time!

The results have been genuinely astounding, with clients’ commenting:

“I’m extremely delighted with the results. I’ve had both PlasmaPen and 7D Ultrasound on my marionette lines and jowl area. I couldn’t be more pleased, so much so, I’ve now booked to have the neck lift.”

(Denise M)

“I had wrinkle-smoothing injections and fillers for 13 years but didn’t like the results nor the long-term effects these treatments were having. A friend recommended Emma, and after having PlasmaPen and other treatments with Emma, it’s the best run into a friend I have ever had!”

(Linda S)

“I had my full eye area treated with PlasmaPen with absolutely brilliant results. It wasn’t painful at all and the results stopped me from wanting surgery – just perfect.”

(Susan S)

“I’ve had my full face and neck treated with PlasmaPen, Hyapen and Ultrasound 7D, and the results are just remarkable. I’m 73 but look and feel 20 years younger. Even my doctor thought I wasn’t in the waiting room recently as he didn’t think for a minute I could be his next 73-year-old patient.”

(Christine K)

“Emma’s professionalism, passion, patience and understanding with me throughout the treatment plan and journey so far has been just wonderful. I’ve had PlasmaPen treatment on my lower face and neck followed by Ultrasound 7D in the same areas with Emma. I’m only half-way through and I’m absolutely thrilled with the results and overall experience.”

(Joan F)

All AFTER images show results after 3 weeks, full results will be seen after 3 months

ONE

PlasmaPen £185 off each area. Areas start from £250. Ultrasound 7D £195 of each area. Areas start from £300. 25% off each ml of Hyapen.

Offers ends 10th July 2023

Limited availability!

You can regain your youthful looks safely and confidently with full recommendations from happy EMA clients

TIME ONLY SUMMER OFFER BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!

THE EYES HAVE IT

Consultant ophthalmologist

Consultant ophthalmologist Mano Sira is the Ribble Valley’s ‘go-to’ specialist for all things related to the eyelids, using the latest surgical and non-surgical procedures for both medical and cosmetic conditions.

With patient care at the heart of all treatments, Mano heads up the Eye Lid Clinic within consulting rooms at Beardwood Hospital in Blackburn and the Lancaster Hospital. He is also an NHS consultant oculoplastic and ophthalmic surgeon at Lancashire Teaching Hospitals’ Eye Centre in Chorley and Preston, specialising in eyelids, orbits and reconstructive surgery. His specialist work also includes endoscopic tear drainage for watery eyes, skin lesion treatment, thyroid eye disease as well as major life-threatening conditions such as tumours affecting the eye.

With more than 15 years’ experience, Mano concentrates purely on treating the eye area and is highly respected within

the medical profession, receiving referrals from across Lancashire and South Cumbria within the NHS as well as working privately.

He explains: “I work with patients with all kinds of problems affecting the eyes and lids and can perform surgical and non-surgical procedures that can resolve medical and functional issues as well as aesthetics.”

Working from his private consulting rooms, his aesthetics work includes administering anti-wrinkle treatments, brow lifting and treatments for dark circles, dermal fillers and non-surgical skin peels as well as surgical procedures around the eyes including rectifying

unsightly eye bags and hooded lids under local or general anaesthetic.

One such delighted patient, who had tried various treatments to correct hooded lids, was absolutely delighted after undergoing surgery performed by Mano. She explains:

“After trying various techniques and treatments, including creams and wrinkle-smoothing injections, to reduce the effect of my ‘baggy’ eyelids, I decided to go for corrective surgery.

“I chose Mr Mano Sira as he specialises in eye surgery, and after meeting him at my first consultation, I knew straight away I was in good hands.

“His manner was professional, honest, friendly and reassuring. My experience at Beardwood under Mr Sira was excellent. I would not hesitate in recommending him and encourage anyone who wants to achieve a natural fresh look to go ahead with the procedure.

“I now feel more confident in my appearance and everyone comments on how well I am looking without actually identifying I have had the procedure.”

Mano, who takes a holistic approach, adds: “The cosmetic procedures I carry out leave patients looking rejuvenated – and I will happily turn a patient away if I don’t think a certain treatment is appropriate.”

Consultations with Mano, for private medical procedures and aesthetic treatments at the Eye Lid Clinic are conducted specifically in a private hospital setting with fully trained medical staff to ensure the patient receives treatment that is Care Quality Commission approved.

Mano is also happy to advise via online video clinics for those who would like a brief initial chat. n

For more information and online clinic bookings contact: info@eyelidclinic.co.uk

Call Beardwood Hospital for hospital clinic bookings, on: 01254 507607 eyelidclinic.co.uk

Mano Sira offers specialist surgical and non-surgical treatments to resolve medical and cosmetic issues surrounding the eyes

Photography: Kirsten Platt

I WOULD NOT HESITATE IN RECOMMENDING MR SIRA AND ENCOURAGE ANYONE WHO WANTS TO ACHIEVE A NATURAL FRESH LOOK, TO GO AHEAD WITH THE PROCEDURE

SKIN CANCER SOLUTION

Highly-regarded Consultant Dermatologist, Dr Arif Aslam, has made the prevention and treatment of skin cancer his life’s work. His dedication and passion have resulted in him working internationally due to the high demand for his specialist surgical skills. In 2021, he brought his unique skill-set home to the people of Lancashire.

Arif is a double fellowship-trained Mohs Micrographic Surgeon. One of only 14 UKbased members of the prestigious American College of Mohs Surgery.

Mohs surgery is considered the gold standard for treating common types of skin cancer. Done in stages, including immediate microscopic review while the patient waits, all cancerous cells are removed and healthy tissue is le untouched. All while leaving the smallest possible scar.

Mohs surgery has the lowest cancer recurrence rates and highest cure ratesup to 99% for primary lesions and 98% for reoccurring lesions unsuccessfully treated by other methods. It also has the best cosmetic results of any skin cancer treatment.

“It was amazing doing high volume Mohs surgery in New Zealand and Australia where they have the highest incidence of skin cancer, but I always wanted to return to my home town of Burnley and set up my own surgical practice for the people of Lancashire,” says Arif.

“My friend and colleague Dr Miguel Montero, a highly-regarded skin specialist, heard I was back and asked me to consider joining his team. I jumped at the opportunity. What better place than Miguel’s beautiful Medical Skin Clinic, located privately within Crow Wood Leisure, to ful l my ambition of having a local clinic o ering Mohs and advanced dermatology services.”

Dr Montero commented: “I’ve diagnosed and treated non-cancerous lesions for many years in my clinic and in the NHS. “Patients with more serious abnormalities previously required a referral to a specialist dermatologist, which can be a lengthy and

Mohs suite and lab within their clinic, where I work with their team to carry out my Mohs surgery.

“Because it involves a special multistep process, Mohs surgery is slightly more expensive but more cost-e ective than other skin cancer treatments. Health insurance plans also cover it. For patients seeking a traditional approach, I also remove noncancerous and cancerous skin lesions using long-established surgical methods.”

worrying process. So, when I heard Arif was returning to the UK and looking to set up his own practice, I was straight on the phone,” says Miguel.

“Lesion removal is di cult to obtain via the NHS, especially in Lancashire and Cumbria. Even if you get to see your GP, there are few with a dermatology speciality. Sadly, some serious cases get missed or caught too late.

When Skin Cancer Awareness month is over at the end of May, skin cancer prevention and treatment will still be very much at the top of Dr Aslam’s agenda. He encourages everyone to keep on top of their skin health because early detection leads to a better diagnosis. ■

For more information call Discover Laser’s friendly team on 01282 420886

To find out more about treatment visit: www.discoverlaser.co.uk

“With Arif on board, we can help more people, giving them safe, fast and e ective private dermatology treatment that eliminates unnecessary wait times and worry.”

“Miguel and his wife Gill, who is Clinic Director, have thoroughly spoiled me,” Arif says with his trademark warm and friendly smile. “I have an excellent purpose-designed

May is Skin Cancer Awareness month, but for Dr Arif Aslam of Discover Laser Medical Skin Clinic, every day is about cancer awareness and cure

MOHS SURGERY IS CONSIDERED THE GOLD STANDARD FOR TREATING COMMON TYPES OF SKIN CANCER

MOHS SURGERY HAS THE LOWEST CANCER RECURRENCE RATES AND HIGHEST CURE RATESUP TO 99%

BUILDING ON FIRM FOUNDATIONS

Dr Khurrum Hussain is one of just five periodontal specialists in the North West – and he has chosen Ribble Valley based Renovo Dental as his referral clinic.

Photography: Sarah Valentine

Seeking specialist dental treatment, patients throughout the UK travel to Ribble Valley-based Renovo Dental, where there is a top team of dental specialists and general practitioners working with some of the very latest state-of-the-art technology.

As part of the team, Dr Khurrum Hussain is one of just 350 periodontal specialists working in the UK – 220 of those being registered in and around central London.

“Working as part of a multi-skilled team with the same passion really is a dream come true. It takes the planning and patient treatment quality to a whole new level,” says Dr Hussain, who completed his training in periodontology at the globally-renowned Eastman Dental Institute at University College London.

“The institute accepts just four people each year, one from the UK one from Europe and the other two internationally. It was an offer I couldn’t refuse,” he explains.

Graduating from the institute in 2016, Khurrum returned to his roots in the North West, teaching periodontology to post-graduates at Manchester University and using his skillset working privately for BUPA.

As a periodontal specialist, he deals with gum disease and the soft tissue surrounding the palate, degenerating bone issues and failing implants.

He is specially trained in the placement, maintenance and repair of dental implants.

“My ethos is not just to treat patients with periodontal challenges, but I aim to work together to educate and motivate them and I have had excellent results with this approach.

“At Renovo we don’t rush in, we view everything in a calculated way. We offer the latest techniques for diagnosing and treating periodontal disease and are also trained in performing cosmetic periodontal procedures.

“Our gums are very much part of our smile

and they are the foundations on which we work. Our aim is to get gum tissue and bones strong and healthy before we carry out any further work.”

Poorly managed diabetes, smoking or inherited genetics can lead to susceptibility to advanced gum disease – and at Renovo Dental, Khurrum can advise on the best techniques and treatment to overcome the problem.

Treatment of advanced gum disease may require dental surgery, such as:

Soft tissue grafts

To replace lost gum tissue due to recession –a small amount of tissue from the roof of the mouth or using tissue from another donor

Before Left: Pre soft tissue grafting

After Right: Post soft tissue grafting

Procedure time 90 minutes – one visit

source and attaching it to the affected site can help reduce further gum recession, cover exposed roots and give your teeth an improved aesthetic. (As illustrated by the gum graft procedure carried out by Dr Khurrum Hussain in the clinical images above).

Bone grafting

This procedure is performed when periodontitis has destroyed the bone surrounding your tooth root. The graft may be composed of small fragments of your own bone, or the bone may be synthetic or donated. The bone graft helps prevent tooth loss by holding your tooth in place. It also serves as a platform for the regrowth of natural bone.

Guided tissue regeneration

This allows the regrowth of bone that was destroyed by bacteria. In one approach, a special piece of biocompatible fabric is placed between existing bone and your tooth. The material prevents unwanted tissue from entering the healing area, allowing bone to grow back instead.

Tissue-stimulating proteins

Another technique involves applying a

special gel to a diseased tooth root. This gel contains the same proteins found in developing tooth enamel and stimulates the growth of healthy bone and tissue.

“There is often a general lack of awareness of what can be done in terms of the latest techniques, treatments and technology. Too often patients are told that the treatment for gum disease and bone loss is not possible. Yes, it is more complex, impossible it is not. That depends on the skillset of the team carrying out the treatment,” explains Dr Khurrum.

As a new clinic, Renovo has invested in all the latest digital technology dentistry has to offer, including a state-of-the-art CT scanner which allows the team to plan and perform very precise implant surgery. This CT-guided surgery for implants is accurate, more safe and comfortable and results in faster healing.

Since launching Renovo Dental, the team’s reputation has spread through word of mouth: “We are very fortunate in what we do and what we have here, and we are all passionate and very dedicated. Renovo is much bigger than a group of individuals – it is all about our patients, changing mindsets and attitudes and giving them support and confidence by providing outstanding dentistry.” n

Renovo Dental

Pendle

House, Clitheroe Road

Chatburn BB7 4JY

01200 441000

hello@renovodental.co.uk

@renovodental

OUR AIM IS TO GET GUM TISSUE AND BONES STRONG AND HEALTHY BEFORE WE CARRY OUT ANY FURTHER WORK

INSPIRED BY YOU… DRIVEN BY SCIENCE

With an ethos that underpins Bedeque Medical Clinic’s aim of achieving natural, ‘untouched’ looks, clients can be sure they are receiving the best treatment for sustained, skin rejuvenation, writes Lucy Newton

Photography: Roger Moore

As a family-run clinic focusing on robust skin care and aesthetic treatments, Bedeque Medical Clinic is headed by Dr Siobhán Allen.

Who is Dr Siobhán Allen?

With 18 years’ experience under her belt and a passion for all things dermatology, Dr Siobhán Allen’s scientific and honest approach underpins the ethos at Bedeque Medical Clinic. Dr Siobhán first began her healthcare career by completing a degree in adult nursing in 2005. She went on to work within the field of oncology, specialising in

paediatric oncology, spending 14 months in a specialist oncology unit in Australia. She then joined an emergency department team in Dublin, where she also completed a PhD in Emergency Medicine. Dr Siobhán has recently started a Masters in Advanced Clinical Practice.

During her time training, Dr Siobhán also spent a year-and-a-half doing extra work on a dermatology unit: “I have always been interested in skin, and with a family member suffering badly with eczema that really further fuelled my interest in dermatology.”

With this combination of medical expertise and passion, Dr Siobhán opened the doors to Bedeque Medical Clinic in January this year.

I REALLY WANT TO MAKE AESTHETICS SAFE FOR THE CONSUMER AND WITH MY MEDICAL BACKGROUND

I FEEL I CAN PROVIDE A HOLISTIC APPROACH

What to expect from Bedeque

Bedeque Medical Clinic offers a holistic approach to skin care and medical aesthetics ranging from ageing skin, treatment of medical skin conditions to cosmetic injectables. Dr Siobhán is keen to promote that ‘doing something for yourself isn’t selfish’ and wants clients to understand that investing

WHAT CLIENTS SAY:

“This is the best clinic I have been to. It was important to me to find a medically trained practitioner with healthcare experience. Dr Siobhán is very knowledgeable and made me feel at ease straight away. The results from my treatments are amazing and I will be returning for more. I would highly recommend Siobhán at Bedeque Medical.”

“Dr Siobhán makes you feel relaxed and explains everything that you need to know. It’s a great relaxing environment too. I felt it absolutely vital that I wanted to deal with a specialist when having vitamin injections. The professionalism shown is second to none and you can easily tell your dealing with a doctor who is more than qualified to working in this environment. I would recommend Siobhàn without any hesitation – a true professional.”

in good skin care will boost the outcomes of any additional treatments. With an emphasis on educating clients on the importance of skincare, clients can expect to receive a rigorous consultation during their first appointment to ensure that a bespoke treatment plan, catering for their individual needs and concerns can be developed to ensure sustained skin rejuvenation: “I really want to make aesthetics safe for the consumer and with my medical background I feel I can provide a holistic approach. For me it is about looking at the skin as a whole, as no two faces are the same,” explains Dr Siobhán.

WE WANT TO EDUCATE OUR CLIENTS ON THE BEST WAY TO CARE FOR THEIR SKIN. WE WILL HELP IN LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS TO GET THE BEST OUT OF YOUR SKIN AND YOUR TREATMENT

With treatments ranging from medical grade skincare, skin boosters, chemical peels, facials, dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle injections, Dr Siobhán aims to work with clients to achieve their desired results, in a safe, scientifically-based and sustainable way. With initial consultations lasting 45 minutes to an hour, clients can expect to receive a treatment plan based on their goals and the results of a state-of-the-art skin scanner which

detects issues such as hyper pigmentation and sun damage. Not only will Dr Siobhán discuss bespoke treatment plans, she will also advise on a robust skincare regime that will aid and lay the foundations to achieve the best possible results. The clinic offers Obagi medical grade skincare, used by Dr Siobhán herself: “I would never recommend a product that I don’t use or haven’t tried myself.

BEDEQUE MEDICAL CLINIC SERVICES

• Diagnostic Skin Scanner

• Medical Grade Skin Care

• Obagi Facials

• Chemical Peels

• Skin Boosters

• Wrinkle Relaxation

• Dermal Fillers

• Vitamin Injections

“We want to educate our clients on the best way to care for their skin. We will help in laying the foundations to get the best out of your skin and your treatments.”

How to book

Bedeque Medical Clinic is available for those 18 and over. Opening hours vary however there are booking slots available online at bedequemedical.com. The clinic also offers a range of payment plans such as ‘pay monthly’ options for treatments. All consultation fees are redeemable against treatment plans. n

Bedeque Medical Clinic

8 Castle Walk, Penwortham PR1 0BP 01772 369222

bedequemedical.com

“She was particularly bothered about losing her hair and she suddenly had lots of questions.”

As part of the SCALP community, Victoria, her family and a group of supporters have been making up goody bags to deliver to patients in hospitals in the Preston area: “The bags contain toiletries and lip balm,” adds Lynne. When she returned home from hospital, realising the trauma she had undergone, Victoria set about seeing how she could help others and created a private consultation room at one of her salons to chat with people with hair loss advising them on coping strategies, on wigs, how to look after them, beauty products that can enhance brows and lashes as well as offering her expert advice on style and colouring, once hair starts growing back.

HELPING OTHERS

Hairdresser Victoria Latham founded SCALP (Supporting Cancer Alopecia Lives and People) last year after being diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia.

With salons in Leyland and Garstang,

Victoria knows exactly how it feels having to cope with hair loss, as her mum Lynne Rawlinson explains: “Victoria was admitted to hospital last year and had to undergo a very aggressive form of chemotherapy, which had various side effects.

With a facebook page on social media, SCALP is there to help any anyone going through hair loss due to chemotherapy, menopause alopecia and other issues. On facebook Victoria explains: “For most people our hair is one of the most important things in making us feel good and confident and when this is taken it can leave us feeling very upset and vulnerable, but it doesn’t need to be this way.” n

As part of their fund-raising effort, SCALP is holding an event on 1st June at Voie Garstang and on 2nd June at Voie Leyland featuring fizz, fun and raffles with luxury prizes

For more details about SCALP go to the Facebook page

Voie Leyland 01772 421929

Voie Garstang 01995 676442

voiehairbeauty.co.uk

A charity fund-raiser is to be held in order to raise awareness of the issues facing people who have hair loss

HIGH-END SPA RENOVATION UNVEILED

Relax, pamper and rejuvenate at Barton Manor Hotel’s recently renovated luxurious spa, writes Sarah Ulyatt

Complementing the four-star Barton Manor’s leisure and wellness facilities, the stunning spa remodel has seen high-end upgrades to the treatment rooms, offering a range of therapies and pamper sessions using marine-based Thalgo products from the French Riviera.

The team of six experienced spa beauty therapists, offer everything from an eyebrow reshape and OPI gel nails, to a brightening facial, a relaxation body wrap, Indian head massage or hot stone full body massage. The team also offers LED light therapy, promoting anti-ageing effects and reducing inflammation.

All of the beauty and wellness options are offered as single treatments or as part of a spa day or overnight package, starting at £130.

Not only has the main spa had an amazing upgrade, there’s also a new mud rasul steam room to cleanse and detoxify and a relaxing

and decongesting eucalyptus sauna, not forgetting the inviting swimming pool to unwind in. To complement all of this is a new luxury vanity room complete with showers, hairdryers and GHDs.

We have even more plans for the future too, with an upgrade to the swimming pool and the addition of a hydro pool.

“I’ve really tried to create a spa experience I would want for myself so whether you’d like to treat yourself, a loved one or visit with friends, we can’t wait to welcome you. You don’t have to be a hotel resident to visit the spa, although we do offer packages and add-ons to overnight stays. You could also make a day of it with friends, treat yourself to some treatments, have a drink or bite to eat in our Walled Garden and also enjoy other nearby destinations like The Flower Bowl at Barton Grange.

Open to non-residents and hotel guests alike, the spa sits at the rear of the hotel and is accessed through the serene and relaxing gardens – a perfect setting to indulge yourself in luxury.

General Manager Andrea Burton said: “I’m thrilled with the renovation and the relaxing, luxurious setting we have created.

“We’ve got lots of free parking and latenight openings, so if you want to relax and recharge, there’s no excuse not to give us a try!”

Once an old manor house, the family-run Barton Manor Hotel is located on the outskirts of Preston and offers a stylish and contemporary setting, with cosy, comfortable rooms from standard to deluxe and executive. n

Barton Manor Hotel & Spa

746-768 Garstang Road

Barton, Preston PR3 5AA 01772 867096

spa@bartonmanorhotel.co.uk bartonmanorhotel.co.uk/spa

BartonManorHotel

bartonmanorhtl

ALL OF THE BEAUTY AND WELLNESS OPTIONS ARE OFFERED AS SINGLE TREATMENTS OR AS PART OF A SPA DAY OR OVERNIGHT PACKAGE

Photography: Roger Moore

ALL THE FUN OF FULWOOD!

Fabulous Fulwood has lots for all the family – and there are special plans for 2023! Photography: Roger Moore

Despite being part of Preston since 1974, Fulwood remains defiantly and robustly distinct with a charm that sets it apart from its parent city. Fulwood is a desirable place to live, particularly the Nooklands area which is graced by elegant Victorian villas. Many of Fulwood’s public buildings date back to the 1800s when wealthy industrialists invested in the town. Fulwood Union

Workhouse (now a part of the University of Central Lancashire) and Harris Orphanage (under residential development) are both in the Victorian Gothic style. Despite its semi-rural feel, Fulwood has great transport links and is rich in local amenities. Preston’s main hospital is here, as are four high schools, 10 primary schools, two prep schools and a college. There are many independent shops, welcoming

pubs and a well-stocked library. Two supermarkets and Fulwood Central Retail Park ensure late-night shopping. Fulwood Barracks, is home to the Lancashire Infantry Museum, which houses one of the largest and most important infantry collections in the country and is well worth a visit.

FULWOOD IS A DESIRABLE PLACE TO LIVE

Historians might also be interested in the shrine of Our Lady of Fernyhalgh, also known as Ladyewell, where devotion has taken place since the 11th century. The reliquary houses pre-reformation artefacts has recently acquired authenticated relics of the 12th century saint, Thomas Becket. Our Lady of Fernyhalgh attracts pilgrims of all faiths and is nestled in a tranquil Fulwood spot surrounded by ancient woodland. n

UPCOMING FULWOOD EVENTS

Preston Caribbean Carnival: Moor Park Avenue

Sunday 27th May starts 12 noon

The town’s 49th Caribbean Carnival will include a vibrant, colourful procession through the city streets, followed by a family fun day on Moor Park, celebrating the flamboyant, creative Caribbean culture within the city. Park events will include live stage performances, Caribbean and international food stalls, craft stalls, a bar, children’s creative sessions, rides and inflatables. prestoncarnival.co.uk

Teddy Bears’ Picnic Weekend: Ribble Steam Railway, Chain Caul Road

27th – 29th May

Just bring your teddy bear and join in the fun! There’ll be face painting and the Big Teddy Bear Raffle. Trains run every 45 minutes.

Book on-line at: ribblesteam.org.uk, or just turn up on the day

Tchaikovsky’s Eugene Onegin: Fulwood Academy

Thursday 1st June, Friday 2nd June - 7pm and Sunday 4th June - 2pm

Preston Opera presents Tchaikovsky’s Eugene Onegin – a Russian opera reimagined in Lancashire. Fulwood Academy

Black Bull Lane, Preston PR2 9YR

Race for Life and Pretty Muddy: Moor Park

Saturday 10th June

The Moor Park route is a single 5k lap, mostly on flat grass. It gives people of all abilities the chance to come together to help beat cancer. In aid of Cancer Research UK, the event is non-competitive so take it at your own pace. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you could try Pretty Muddy®, instead. Climb, crawl and slide your way over a 5k obstacle course! Go to: raceforlife.cancerresearchuk.org

Preston City Games Tournament: UCLan Sports Arena, Fulwood

Friday 30th June at 12pm

This one-day sporting festival pits teams of businesses and charities against each other in tournaments of rounders, football and netball. It’s an opportunity for businesses and charities of all sizes to encourage staff to take part in fun physical activities. prestoncitygames.com

The Big PNE Sleep Out: Preston North End Football Club, Deepdale

Friday 17th November

Sleep out pitch-side to raise essential funds for Preston’s most vulnerable residents. Preston has more people sleeping rough than any other place in Lancashire. To take part and register go to: eventbrite.co.uk

McDade Roberts Chartered Accountants and Business

A dvisers has been assisting Lancashire families, businesses, and individuals since the 1990s: “We offer the full range of accountancy services as well as

A BRAND-NEW SERVICE

the usual compliance service. We are also financial advisors through our sister service MR Financial Services and we’re probate registered. Some of our clients have been with us since the day we started,” says director, Martin Garry.

The personnel of the Lancashire accountants, which now has offices in Fulwood, Longridge and Bamber Bridge, has changed over the decades, but Martin believes their unique selling point remains their

welcoming and approachable style: “There are a lot of good accountancy firms around, but what differentiates us, is the friendly personalities of our team and the fact that we are led by client need.”

Kevin Carey, McDade Roberts’ longest serving director, spotted such a client need when he launched their newest and most innovative service: McDade Roberts Financial Director (MRFD). This unique service is aimed at businesses who do not have an in-house financial director, but who would benefit from the scrutiny of one.

backing and regular availability, your business can be agile and proactive.

Martin explains: “MRFD looks at potential efficiency gains. We seek out your business’s pinch points and system weaknesses and because we aren’t part of your business, it’s all from an objective viewpoint. It’s a completely personalised service. We can report to board meetings, assess reporting systems and control and ensure technologies are being introduced into the financial functions. We can help you make informed decisions and create confidence in your business’ financial performance. We bring our time and experience to the table so that with our continuous

“Some businesses are looking for growth, others are concerned with succession planning or even preparing for sale. Whatever it is, we will tailor our service to your needs. It’s like having a financial director on demand, but at a fraction of the cost of employing one.” n

McDade Roberts

316 Blackpool Road

Fulwood, Preston PR2 3AE 01772 717110

South Preston Office Village 4B Cuerden Way

Bamber Bridge PR5 6BL 01772 335111

Chapel Hill

Longridge PR3 3JY 01772 786858

office@mcdaderoberts.co.uk

mcdaderoberts.co.uk

Catherine Robinson hears how an exciting financial service is set

to

help local businesses thrive

IT’S LIKE HAVING A FINANCIAL DIRECTOR ON DEMAND, BUT AT A FRACTION OF THE COST OF EMPLOYING ONE

WE CAN HELP YOU MAKE INFORMED DECISIONS AND CREATE CONFIDENCE IN YOUR BUSINESS’ FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

home visit to ensure we fully capture your needs.

“Bang & Olufsen’s current products are designed to be upgraded rather than having to be replaced, which is great for you and for environmental purposes.

“I’m so passionate about our products that I can’t wait to show them off. One of my absolute favourites at the moment is the Dolby Atmos Beosound Theatre soundbar which has amazing music and cinematic quality – especially when partnered with Beolab 28 loudspeakers, it’s the best there has ever been, in my opinion!”

John has many plans for Bang & Olufsen of Preston, he’s already launched a new YouTube Channel to showcase the wonderful world of all the products on offer: “I explain how the products work in a way I would want to hear with limited technical jargon,” adds John.

TIMELESS DANISH DESIGN WITH EXPERT AUDIO-VISUAL ADVICE

Established in 1959, Bernard Dickinson is a name synonymous with high-end audio-visual solutions from some of the world’s leading brands, including Bang & Olufsen, offering high-end speakers, televisions and luxury headphones. Sarah Ulyatt finds out more.

Photography: Roger Moore

With new Store Manager, John Williams, recently joining the team, Bernard Dickinson’s Fulwood showroom is home to Preston’s Bang & Olufsen dealership giving you the chance to experience and explore all the luxury products in action.

John, who has been with Bang & Olufsen since 2006, previously worked at stores in Nantwich, Chester and most recently in Manchester, so comes with a wealth of knowledge and experience to offer you the best possible service.

John explains: “The timeless Danish design and exceptional craftmanship in Bang & Olufsen products create the most amazing sound and vision. Whether you’re after a simple pair of

Dedicated to customer service

JOHN HAS MANY PLANS FOR BANG & OLUFSEN OF PRESTON, HE’S ALREADY LAUNCHED A NEW YOUTUBE CHANNEL TO SHOWCASE THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF ALL THE PRODUCTS

headphones or want to create a high-quality audio visual experience, I will offer you my advice and knowledge, and can go through your plans, initially in our showroom and then a

Customer care is at the heart of both Bang & Olufsen and Bernard Dickinson, John says: “In just a few months of working here, I can honestly say that Bernard Dickinson’s dedication to the customer is second to none and I’m proud to say that Bang & Olufsen is part of that – putting people first and going out of our way to help. Working together we can provide perfect connectivity for your home, from audio visual entertainment to lighting and shade, bringing together technology and interior design with seamless installations.” n

Bang & Olufsen at Bernard Dickinson

13 Beech Drive, Fulwood PR2 3NB 01772 862266

john.preston@bang-olufsen.co.uk

bernarddickinson.co.uk stores.bang-olufsen.com

B ang & Olufsen Preston

Dr Stephen Hennessy BDS is UK-renowned for his skills in non-surgical, cosmetic facial rejuvenation.

Always advocating natural-looking results, Dr Hennessy is a cosmetic dental surgeon and aesthetics expert more than two decades within the industry.

During his career, Dr Hennessy who has recently opened a new clinic solely dedicated to aesthetics, has worked as a trainer in advanced procedures for worldrenowned Galderma at London’s Royal College of Surgeons.

Specialising in anti-ageing treatments carried out in an ultimately safe environment, patients are assured of subtle, facial enhancements resulting in a fresher, brighter complexion.

Academy & Cosmetic Clinics

Natural Beauty

CQC registered, treatments are carried out at Dr Hennessy’s new aesthetics clinic in Preston and testament to his vast experience, Dr Hennessy also has his own academy training other aesthetic practitioners.

Safe treatments using proven products in a clinical environment are at the forefront of Dr Hennessy’s practice, which provides:

• Wrinkle smoothing injections

• Lip and cheek enhancement

• Facial contouring

• Facial rejuvenation

• Brow and lip lift

Dr Hennessy BDS is a member of International Academy of Cosmetic Dermatology and the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

For a consultation or to find out more please contact the clinic or go to drhennessy.com

Dr Hennessy Aesthetic Clinic

80 Watling Street Road

Fulwood

Preston PR2 8BP 01772 774297

drhennessy.com

Dr Hennessy Aesthetic Clinic & Academy

5a Millennium Office Park

Preston PR2 5DB 01772 774297

drhennessyacademy.com

A Preston clinic dedicated to non-surgical aesthetics has forged a reputation for anti-ageing treatments that enhance, rather than change, natural facial features

FIRES TO FALL IN LOVE WITH

With 32 years’ experience advising, supplying and fitting electric and gas fires, fireplaces, stoves and woodburners, Preston’s Burning Desires knows exactly how to turn up the heat without burning your budget, writes Kate Bowyer.

Photography: Roger Moore

Over the last year, how to heat our homes efficiently and economically as well as beautifully, has preoccupied us more than we could have imagined. Luckily the experts at Burning Desires have been helping customers seamlessly solve this challenge for decades.

“Astute customers are taking advantage of the summer months to plan for next winter,” observes owner Paddy Umpleby. “Who can afford to maintain an inefficient gas fire, knowing half your increasing energy bill is

literally going straight up the chimney? It’s the foresight to invest in a new fire, knowing you’ll reap the benefits of a warmer home for

less cost, for years to come.”

Luckily, just as cost-of-living challenges have ramped up, so has the technology. Situated on Garstang Road, handily on the main A6 from the M6 into Preston City Centre, Burning Desires stays abreast of the very latest developments. This enables them to stock the newest efficient models and welcome exclusive partners like British Fires and Dutch manufacturers Kalfire.

“Electric fires have developed out of all recognition in the last two years,” advises Paddy. “Perfect timing for customers considering alternatives to gas. Establishing themselves at the forefront of electric fire and stove design, British Fires marry modern design with cutting-edge ‘air curtain’ technology, drawing cooler room air in and circulating it through special channels to distribute controlled heat into the room.”

For homes where gas remains the most effective option, manufacturers like Kalfire, Faber, Elgin and Hall and Gazco have raised the bar on design, performance and efficiency, including glass-fronted gas fires which operate at twice the efficiency of open-fronted, and many which can be controlled remotely via a smartphone app, to warm the room exactly and only when needed.

To incorporate these exciting innovations,

the team at Burning Desires have modified the showroom and introduced new displays, now showcasing over 70 installations across two floors. Traditional, contemporary, hole in the wall, corner, freestanding, ‘floating’ designs and stunning four-metre showpieces – it’s the perfect way to picture exactly which fire feels like ‘home’. Woodburners and solid fuel stoves range from snug to sleek, all benefiting from the highest performance and clean-air specifications.

“Aesthetics and appearance are still incredibly important,” confirms Paddy. “Your fire is the heart of your home, the key to creating feelings of warmth, security and relaxation. This is why I made my twin focuses for 2023 sourcing the best new suppliers and models, and displaying them to the customer’s best advantage.”

It’s been a busy and exciting year for Paddy, who took on the business from Burning Desires’ founder and shareholder Sean Treaddell in January. Having started working for Sean aged just 18, Paddy is committed to continuing the integrity and care that has made the business so loved and trusted by customers.

“Sean created and built an incredible company, which deserves its reputation,” reflects Paddy. “I’m so proud to have been able to take this opportunity. Everything customers have come to expect continues –I’m the same, the team is the same. Between us, we have over 100 years’ worth of experience in the industry!

“Feedback confirms we’re doing the right thing, maintaining the highest standards of expertise, attention and understanding. The only things that have changed are even more exciting new additions to our portfolio and showroom.”

Burning Desires continues to be the trusted partner for an increasing number of architects, interior designers and house builders across the North West and the Isle of Man, and are currently consulting on a project in central London.

“These partnerships benefit everybody,” explains Paddy. “Enabling exactly the right fireplace to be chosen, integrated and fitted seamlessly into newbuilds, conversions or renovations, both domestic and commercial, our experienced and meticulous installation teams ensure the trickiest installation is completed to the highest standard and finish.

“Just as we appreciate buying a fire is a significant decision, our passion is ensuring it is also a life-enhancing one. Our showroom enables you to discover the best and newest models in a relaxed setting, with fantastic staff on hand to assist as little or as much as you choose. We understand this may be a once in two-decades decision, so we’re with you every step of the way to making sure it’s the right one.” n

JUST AS WE APPRECIATE BUYING A FIRE IS A SIGNIFICANT DECISION, OUR PASSION IS ENSURING IT IS ALSO A LIFE-ENHANCING ONE

LONG LIVE CLUB DAY!

Anne Aitken vice-chair of Lytham Club Day and Rose Queen Festival, reflects on Club Day history and looks at the positives and negatives of future events. Photography: Roger Moore

The name Club Day is only found in the North West of Lancashire and a few parts of Cheshire. It was the day when all the men’s clubs joined together to show off their banners and hopefully increase their membership. The clubs were mainly social clubs, not in the entertainment sense, but in a socially aware sense. The main clubs were the Oddfellows,

the Friendly Society, the Temperance Society and the Buffaloes. In those early days there were absolutely no worker’s rights or sickness pay or redundancy pay so these groups originated to look after the worker and sometimes as in the Temperance Society the worker’s liver!

The first recorded Lytham Club Day (LCD) was in 1840. The Clifton family, who resided

at the now famous Lytham Hall, had a huge influence on the day as they owned the majority of the town. It was a midweek parade and became a public holiday. It was a quiet affair, with no music or dancing, and definitely no women. The pubs certainly increased sales on this first Club Day.

BETWEEN 1850 AND 1887 LCD GREW IN POPULARITY WITH BANDS AND HORSEMEN ADDED

Between 1850 and 1887 LCD grew in popularity with bands and horsemen added and eventually the lifeboat crew. Each town in Fylde had their own day and they never clashed. They did all compete to be bigger and better than their neighbours. However, by 1894, something had to change, so the churches intervened as they wanted to bring a touch of sobriety to the proceedings.

In 1894 Annie Johnstone, aged 14 from St Cuthbert’s Church was crowned the first

Lytham Rose Queen. Live music, Morris dancing, floats and the local sports’ teams actively took part. This was the first year the whole community came together to enjoy something. No one was excluded and women and children became involved. It continued like this until 1909 when the school children marched as schools in the parade and the local councillors marched.

In 1913, Lytham welcomed King George V and Queen Mary of Teck the day before Club Day. The town was strewn with bunting and flags and everyone painted their houses and tended to the gardens. This continues to this day because who wants to be the scruffiest house on the street when the Rose Queen is passing! This Coronation year, the bunting was strewn across roads earlier than usual and hopefully will stay in place for most of the summer.

Ring for the King’ has been announced for this Coronation year.

When Club Day parade finishes the day continues with the crowning ceremony, then entertainment until the evening. In the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s this comprised of a barn dance and huge crowds dancing in the streets but as the town increased in size and anti-social behaviour became a problem, usually due to mis-use of alcohol, there had to be another alternative.

The future – positives:

• Heritage.

• Tradition.

• New clubs: The Soroptimists, Rotary and Lions.

• A huge community event bringing everyone together.

• A f ree inclusive community spectacle in the morning and a nominal fee of £3 to enjoy live bands and entertainment at Lytham Hall.

Only three times in its illustrious history has the day been cancelled, during both wars and of course most recently during the pandemic. After World War II had ended Club Day was revived in a spectacular manner. All the allotments grew roses to adorn the floats and the Queen. The church bells rang out as the procession passed each local church – this still continues and will be even more relevant this year as, ‘Learn to

In 2014, the whole after-party involving the crowning of the Queen returned to its roots and moved lock stock and barrel to Lytham Hall. The event is contained, children are safe and around 3,000 to 4,000 people can enjoy a funfilled day. The Cliftons have always been huge supporters of LCD with Wykeham Clifton missing the Coronation in 1902 to organise Lytham’s coronation! So, to be able to use their ancestral home is a huge privilege.

In 1919 LCD cost £250 to put on. Now, in 2023, it is £25,000! So, is the future in doubt?

The future – negatives:

• A reduced committee and not enough volunteers to put on such a massive event.

• Health and safety regulations.

• L ess people join churches and clubs.

• Lytham Festival encroaches massively on the day as the green is not accessible to families.

This years Club Day is Saturday 24th June when the Rose Queen, Beatrice Smith from St Cuthbert’s Church and the Rose Queen elect, Phoebe Rowlings from St Peter’s Church will be welcomed. Two fabulous girls who spend their year in office doing charitable work raising money. n

LYTHAM

Saturday 24th June 2023

LCD is funded entirely by the local community through fund raising events and sponsorship

THE BELLS RANG OUT AS THE PROCESSION PASSED EACH LOCAL CHURCH AND THIS STILL CONTINUES

HOLIDAY HOMES FOR SALE

REEDS

To be clear, a negligent hair treatment isn’t when someone has received a bad haircut or is unhappy with the result. Negligent treatment is when a customer has suffered serious hair damage or injury as a result of the misuse of chemicals, failing to test before the treatment or poor or ineffective training.

Examples of hair damage include hair breakage, bald patches, burns, scarring, allergic reactions, scalp damage and swelling, among other things.

People will usually make a claim for compensation for one of two reasons – to cover the cost of remedial treatment, since the damage was not their fault so they shouldn’t be out of pocket as a result or to ensure that the same thing doesn’t happen again to someone else.

We put a lot of trust in our hairdressers to look after a part of ourselves, our hair, which

INJURY AT THE HAIRDRESSERS

A trip to the hairdressers should be an enjoyable and relaxing experience. But, unfortunately sometimes an injury or damage to your hair can occur due to negligent treatment, explains

Joanne Smith, personal injury solicitor at Mulderrigs, part of the Farleys Solicitors family

is so personal to us. When the treatment is negligent, it can have a devastating impact on a person, not only physically, but mentally too.

WHEN THE TREATMENT IS NEGLIGENT, IT CAN HAVE A DEVASTATING IMPACT ON A PERSON, NOT ONLY PHYSICALLY, BUT MENTALLY TOO

What should you do if you have been injured at the hairdressers?

There are several steps you should take after the accident to ensure you can make a claim for compensation. Take photographs of the damage or injury and visit a doctor where appropriate for any necessary treatment.

It is also important that you don’t have any more chemicals applied at another salon to try and repair the damage or cut out the damaged hair.

Finally, get in touch with a solicitor with experience in hair damage claims at the earliest opportunity to discuss whether you have grounds for a claim and what steps you should take next. Having a solicitor fighting your corner during the claim process can help to take away a lot of the stress involved and ensure you are getting the best settlement. n

To speak to an expert in hair damage claims to discuss your circumstances in confidence, please get in touch with Mulderrigs Solicitors on 01706 438478 email: info@mulderrigs.co.uk or visit: www.mulderrigs.co.uk

MEDICAL TREASURE TROVE

feeder, a ceramic inhaler, an X-Tonometer, which is used to measure eye pressure and was designed by Professor Schiotz in the early 1900s and a variety of medical books.

Medical equipment and nursing training reports dating back almost 100 years have been discovered at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan).

Items, including a pair of Tudor Edwards Spectacles that were used to administer oxygen until the 1950s and an acrylic hip joint from around the same period, were found at the back of a storage cupboard in the School of Nursing.

The discovery was made by the school’s Clinical Skills Technician Karen Colton while she was clearing out the storeroom. Other items include a metal syringe kit and steriliser from the 1960s, a premature baby

Karen explains: “I just thought, what on earth is this? Everything was hidden in crates at the back of the cupboard and it took me a few moments to realise what I was looking at. It’s absolutely fascinating to see how medical equipment and our attitudes to illness and treatment has changed over time. What struck me the most is the change in how we sterilised and reused medical equipment compared to single use plastic in modern medicine.

“The first item I saw was a book called Diseases of Women and Children that we suspect was published in the early 20th century. This really was of its time and provides a fascinating insight into how women’s health and their role in society was perceived.”

The book, which includes a drink recipe to alleviate menopause systems, provides

School of Nursing artefacts discovered in a storeroom, have provided a unique insight into early 20th century health care

SHE, WITH HER LITTLE ONES PRATTLING AT HER KNEES, IS THE CULMINATION OF MAN’S HIGHEST IDEALS OF PEACE, LOVE AND PERFECT HAPPINESS

an overview of ‘womanhood’, suggesting: “She, with her little ones prattling at her knees, is the culmination of man’s highest ideals of peace, love and perfect happiness.”

The treasure trove also reveals handwritten explanations of the modules studied by trainee nurses from Blackpool Victoria Hospital, dating back as far as 1932. They list various lectures that students attended, such as infectious diseases, the nursing of pneumonia and Materia Medica, which is a Latin term relating to the history of pharmacy.

Andrew Melling, Head of the UCLan School of Nursing, said: “This is a really exciting find for the School of Nursing and reflects UCLan’s long-standing relationship with the nursing profession in the region.

“The way we teach nursing has of course moved on in the UK. Our own School of Nursing was established in 1990 and we’re now able to teach in an immersive way in classrooms that simulate the environment our future nurses will be working in – whether that’s an operating theatre, the patient’s own home or a mock-hospital ward working with adult and infant mannequins.

“However, although technology has moved on, the fundamentals of nursing are still the same and allowing students to gain practical experience was clearly the focus of nurse education all those years ago.”

All of the handwritten reports and training summaries have now been transferred to the university archives to be retained for historical significance, and the School of Nursing now plans to showcase some of the medical equipment in a display cabinet in the Greenbank Building.

It’s unclear exactly how the artefacts came to be stored at UCLan, as the Greenbank building where they were found was only built in 1998. n

Anyone who may be able to shed some light on where the equipment may have come from can contact UCLan via the press office on: pressoffice@uclan.ac.uk

ALLOWING STUDENTS TO GAIN PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE WAS CLEARLY THE FOCUS OF NURSE EDUCATION ALL THOSE YEARS AGO

SUPERBIKE FOR SUPERHUMAN ENDEAVOURS

Geoff Thomas, MBE, former footballing legend and blood cancer survivor, has been prolific in raising awareness and fund-raising with the Tour 21 series

Geoff Thomas has conquered all 21 stages of the Tour de France no less than five times as a tribute to the medical professionals who helped him and to patients fighting their own battle against Leukaemia.

Ribble Cycles, honours the Tour 21, their superhuman efforts and celebrates being the official bike partner with the creation of a new tour superbike – Ribble’s Tour 21 Alumni

Limited Edition Ultra SL R.

Masterminded by Ribble’s Head of Product and ex-pro Tour rider, Jamie Burrow, who is no stranger of what it really takes to complete one of the most iconic sporting events in the world, the bike is a special homage to everyone’s personal efforts, which is reflected in the striking aerodynamically optimised geometry, resplendent bespoke colourway and 24-carat gold leaf detailing. As a limited edition it is only available to Tour 21 riders, with each bike personally signed and numbered by Geoff Thomas and proceeds going to Cure Leukaemia.

TOUR TALK

Geoff, you have completed the Tour de France five times – how did this come about? With a conversation really – when I was told I was in remission from cancer in January 2005. I still had a profile from my playing days, but my knees were shot from football. I asked someone what riding the Tour would entail and was told it would be three weeks in France. I didn’t even have a bike, but I knew that this was what I needed to do. I got my first bike at the start of March 2005 and my first ride was six miles and it nearly killed me! I thought to myself, ‘I’m really going to have to put some effort into this!’.

Describe the experience – has it lived up to expectations?

Surpassed everything! Nobody really gave me any hope but that’s what motivated me. I did my first 100-mile ride just two weeks before that first event. We had some gruelling days but the feeling reaching Paris was indescribable.

How much have your efforts raised?

The first ride raised £250,000 and in 2021 we raised more than £1m for the first time. Over the years we’ve leveraged more than £300 million in drugs into the infrastructure we’ve built.

Ribble’s superbike and support what does that mean?

We’ve struck up a good relationship and a support package for the Tour 21. I’m a modest guy, but the Alumni bike’s creation to raise money for Cure Leukaemia is great. n

For more information, visit: ribblecycles.co.uk

THE ALUMNI BIKE’S CREATION TO RAISE MONEY FOR CURE LEUKAEMIA IS GREAT

Ribble Valley based DressEd was launched last year by Eddison Emam who has travelled the world competing in international beauty pageants. She is delighted to be the face behind the upcoming Miss Great Britain Finals Lancashire Heat, which will be held at Stanley House Hotel and Spa in Mellor on 9th July.

DressEd Boutique is unique in terms of the international labels that can be seen adorning the rails as well as Eddison’s extensive experience on the pageant circuit.

THE FABRIC CAN BE DRAPED, TWISTED AND TIED TO CREATE AN ELEGANT GOWN OF YOUR CHOICE –THE POSSIBILITIES ARE ENDLESS!

Stocking designer names that are celebrity favourites, DressEd is also the only UK stockist of Diverse Style heels in three shades of nude – a brand Eddison discovered during her time in the United States: “I spotted them and knew we just had to have them at DressEd – they are fabulous!”

DressEd also stocks bridesmaids’ dresses from top designers including Dessy Group and Onlyway – a unique concept offering a createyour-own style dress in fabulous fabric that comes in 42 different shades.

“This a great idea!” says Eddison. “Bridesmaids come in all different shapes and sizes so it’s often really difficult to choose a dress that

MISS GREAT BRITAIN LANCASHIRE HEAT

Tickets for Miss Lancashire GB go on sale on 21st April on Eventbrite!

The event will be held at Stanley House Hotel and Spa in Mellor on 9th July.

Tickets include a sit-down buffet on round tables of 10.

DressEd will be hosting a VIP after party – tickets on sale on the door. All proceeds go to Derian House Children’s Hospice.

YOUR TIME TO SHINE

Sponsor of the official Miss Great Britain Lancashire Heat is the glamorous DressEd Boutique, which has become renowned for its fabulous prom, pageant and bridesmaid dresses

suits them all. Well, the Onlyway is the perfect answer!”

Each bridesmaid literally creates their own style in the same fabric –it can be off-the shoulder, with sleeves, cross-back, halter-neck –the fabric can be draped, twisted

and tied to create an elegant gown of your choice – the possibilities are endless!

For any special occasion, call in at DressEd Boutique to meet Eddison and view the beautiful gowns on display. n

DressED Boutique Huntley’s Whalley Road Samlesbury PR5 OUN 07393 719950

@_dressedboutique

MEMORIES OF ZANZIBAR

A group of volunteers from Preston North End Community and Education Trust recall their memories of a recent trip to Zanzibar to renovate and help out at a deprived local school

Staff from Preston North End Community and Education Trust (PNECET) as well as volunteers from the public recently embarked on a life-changing trip to Zanzibar as part of a special volunteering project, to leave a positive lasting legacy on the African island. Here is a first-hand summary of the trip, from the PNECET volunteers giving a unique insight into the work carried out during the trip that saw them working at Fuoni School, improving the lives of pupils and staff.

Harriet Creighton-Levis

“As the group organiser and leader for our first overseas volunteering trip, I witnessed first-hand the impact of PNECET on the school, its staff and most importantly, the pupils. “The commitment and dedication from our

volunteers was phenomenal – I was so proud of us as a Trust, embarking on the journey of volunteering abroad and the group that we took to Zanzibar.

THE ATMOSPHERE IN STONE TOWN WAS SO VERY FRIENDLY WITH STRANGERS SHOUTING ‘JAMBO’ AND ‘HAKUNA MATATA’ WITH FIST PUMPS AND HIGH FIVES EVERY DAY

“To live within a deprived local community and support them while embracing their culture and their diverse situations was special to us, and them. You could feel their true appreciation of your presence and support. At the school, there were class sizes of 80 plus students, no tables or chairs, no lights, no educational resources, no catering facility or communal space for teacher or pupil, just bare rooms and some uneven outdoor space, which was shared with cows, where we played our sport.”

Sue Devaney

“It’s hard to put it all into words but for me I would say the trip was life changing and

I feel so grateful to have had the opportunity to go.

“The children and staff at school were so happy and eager to learn and meet us. Although they have very little in the way of facilities, they were all happy to be there. The children were so enthusiastic and engaged in all our activities, it was a pleasure to be with them and very difficult to leave.

“I think we made a lasting difference with the renovation work we undertook. It certainly brightened the place up. I only wish we had longer to complete it all.

“Stone Town itself was a beautiful place to stay, contrasting between the everyday housing, shops and market stalls and large five-star hotels along the seafront. The atmosphere was so very friendly with strangers shouting ‘Jambo’ and ‘Hakuna Matata’ with fist pumps and high fives every day. We felt so very welcome everywhere we went. It was infectious!

humbling and rewarding experience and some great memories were made in Zanzibar.

“The most memorable moment was the big football tournament that myself, Alex and Harrison organised. Just being able to play football with young children and seeing them happy was a great way to end our time there.”

Alistair White

“It was all over so quickly but it was a trip to remember and cherish forever. I would go back in a heartbeat.”

Sulaimaan Mullah

“We spent 10 days working with Fuoni School to teach lessons, coach sports and help with construction to help better the education and lives of the hundreds of children. It was a

“As someone who was involved in the initial conversations with African Adventures about setting up a trip for PNECET, the feeling of actually being out in Zanzibar engaging with the school and all the pupils was even better!

“It was a pleasure to lead such a passionate and committed group of volunteers who all wanted to make a difference. Everyone put so much effort into raising funds, collecting donations and thinking of ideas for classroom and sports sessions and to see how appreciative

the pupils and teachers were for our support, was so humbling.

“I will never forget all the people we met, their smiles and the memories we shared together.”

Mary Hewitt

“I have met so many amazing people from this experience. Working in the school made you really think about how lucky we are. A lot of children had no shoes and some of their bags were just sacks. It felt so good knowing that we had vital equipment that we were leaving for them and it was clear it was certainly needed.

“My time there has really made me reflect on my own life. Its allowed me to take a step back from the stress of daily life, technology and the ‘what’s next’ attitude. I now try to appreciate the simple things, taking in my surroundings and being present in the moment.

“I will never forget that when we were leaving, a group of girls noticed I was becoming quite emotional and wiped away my tears saying, ‘Don’t cry, be happy. We love you and we will miss you’.”

PNECET would like to thank Business Gift UK for sponsoring the volunteer T-shirts for the Zanzibar trip.

Ben Ward, General Manager at Business Gifts UK, said: “As a local company, we’re really proud of the work PNECET do in the community so we were more than happy to support the Zanzibar trip with the donation of branded T-shirts for the volunteers. They are a great way of spreading the PNE name to a new corner of the world and we’re sure the work carried out by the team will leave a long-lasting legacy in Stone Town.”

If you are interested in supporting similar fundraising trips in the future or would like to become a partner of PNECET, please contact: brad@pne.com

IT WAS CLEAR THAT MOST OF THE CHILDREN HAD NOTHING, HOWEVER THEY GAVE EVERYTHING TO US, JUST THROUGH THEIR SMILES, LAUGHTER AND SONG!

ON TRACK FOR A SPRUCE-UP

refreshing the paintwork on some of the platform furniture and will also be planting summer bedding plants and hanging baskets to ensure the station looks its best for the big day.

Volunteers and railway workers have joined forces to clean up stations along the South Fylde line in preparation for a landmark celebrations at St Anne’s VOLUNTEERS WILL ALSO BE PLANTING SUMMER BEDDING PLANTS AND HANGING BASKETS TO ENSURE THE STATION LOOKS ITS BEST FOR THE BIG DAY

St Anne’s station is planning a series of special events to mark its 150th anniversary this year. With a fresh coat of paint and seasonal display of spring blooms, the station celebrates a century and a half serving the communities of the Fylde.

St Anne’s station was actually opened before the town of St Anne’s was built – one of about six stations in the UK where the stations preceded the building of the town they served.

Tony Ford, Chairman of the Station Friends Group said: “We are very pleased with our newly painted station. All credit to Northern Rail’s Regional Stakeholder Manager Owain Roberts, who managed to arrange for the work despite the pressure on railway budgets.”

Volunteers at the station are now throwing their energies into painting the fencing,

Amongst the other events and activities scheduled for what promises to be a spectacular summer of celebrations are the burying of a time capsule of contemporary railway artefacts from the current era, an exhibition of period photographs of the station and the line, an illustrated talk on the station’s history by local archivist David Hoyle and a series of guided walks based on the railway walk which starts at St Anne’s Station.

Community rail volunteers all along the South Fylde Line have been busy cleaning their adopted stations to mark the arrival of summer.

On the footbridge over the railway line

at Ansdell Station, Network Rail staff used power-washers to remove dirt and graffiti from the structure.

Friends of Ansdell Station member Karen Cornforth said: “I am really pleased that Network Rail have power-washed the graffiti and painted over the panels of the bridge.

“There is still work to do to make the steps more user-friendly, but this is a start and comes after much lobbying by the Community Rail Partnership and Ansdell in Bloom.”

Meanwhile, volunteers at St Anne’s Station took the opportunity to tackle litter and fly-tipping at Squires Gate Station between Blackpool and St Anne’s.

The clean-up mission was part of the Great British Spring Clean – Britain’s biggest mass-action environmental campaign.

The volunteers split into two teams – one to tackle the active platform and the other to work on the derelict platform area, which the station group has been turning into a wildlife haven and much more.

Station volunteer Paul Nettleton said: “You name it, we’ve collected it – plastic bottles, crisp packets, beer cans, pieces of wood, footballs, blocks of polystyrene and a bicycle tyre. Squires Gate station now looks neat and tidy. It’s all in a day’s work!” n

For the latest updates on events on the South Fylde Line, visit: communityraillancashire.co.uk

The Preston City Mela at Moor Park on 17th June celebrates South Asian arts, culture and tradition with performances, traditional music and workshops. Windrush 75 Festival, on 18th June at Avenham Park, celebrates the contributions of the Windrush generation to British society.

Armed Forces Day on 24th June in the City Centre is a day of remembrance and

ALL-ROUND ENTERTAINMENT

Preston City Centre is set to come alive with a packed calendar of events this year. From festivals to celebrations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy

The annual Caribbean Carnival kicks off the festivities on 27th and 28th May at Moor Park, Preston, featuring a vibrant procession, stunning costumes, live music and dancing. Jazz lovers can look forward to Young Jazz in the Square and Jazzin’ the Park, both taking place in Winckley Square on the 3rd and 10th June.

respect for Preston’s serving soldiers and their families. The Preston City Wrestling Showcase on 19th August at the Flag Market promises a captivating display of strength and aerial acrobatics.

Encounter Festival returns from 15th to 17th September, celebrating the diverse

cultural offer of Lancashire with high-quality arts and performances. Finally, on 23rd September, head to the Flag Market and support Preston’s LGBTQIA+ community at Preston Pride, featuring fabulous acts, entertainment and stalls.

Join Prestonians and visitors alike at these fantastic events throughout 2023 showcasing the city’s community, culture and diversity. n

visitpreston.com

@visitprestonlancs @visitpreston

Owd Barn’s farm shop is full of seasonal produce including local strawberries and tomatoes from Hesketh Bank and homegrown cauliflower, broccoli and new potatoes from the family’s own 200-acre farm. Set within the farm shop is Butcher Farrell’s Meat Emporium where all meat is ethically produced from small independent UK farms.

SHOP, EAT AND RELAX

Located in the picturesque West Lancashire countryside, Owd Barn at Bispham and neighbouring retail space The Spud Shed, provide a one-stop rural venue to shop, eat, drink and relax, writes Sarah Ulyatt. Photography: Roger Moore

Set in a 16th century barn, Owd Barn is home to a well-stocked farm shop, Butcher Farrell’s Meat Emporium, a licensed tearoom, gift shop and home interiors loft space. Then there’s the neighbouring Spud Shed, offering a range of independent businesses including, Vitality Spa, Oak Wine Shop, Hul&Bert Jewellery and The Yoga Collaboration.

Just 30 minutes’ drive from central Preston, Owd Barn is the perfect place to spend time with family or friends, or to simply treat yourself at the spa!

Gifts, farm shop and tearoom treats

In the tearoom, children and adults are spoilt for choice with a range of traditional farmhouse homemade meals as well as a daily choice of delicious cakes. There’s also traditional and speciality teas, coffee, hot chocolate and soft drinks, plus locally produced Fredericks ice cream. The rustic, farmhouse style afternoon tea is also extremely popular, just make sure you book 48 hours in advance for that!

And, if you’re looking for gifts, the mezzanine floor in the barn offers a stunning range of homeware, jewellery, candles, clothing and other accessories. Popular at the moment are Powder sunglasses which all come in their own beautiful gift bags and there’s a new larger greeting card display with stationery and cook books coming soon, too.

At the weekend, Owd Barn hosts a range of pop-up shops in their new outdoor huts. An array of local traders and makers are using them so see social media for more. n

20th Birthday Celebrations!

On Saturday 15th July Owd Barn will be hosting a party to celebrate their 20th birthday. With a BBQ and live music planned, search for Owd Barn on social media to be part of the celebrations!

Owd Barn at Bispham & Spud Shed

Spencer’s Farm, Rufford Road

Bispham, Near Ormskirk L40 3SA 01704 823435

info@owdbarn.com owdbarn.com

Open Tuesday to Sunday: 10am-5pm Spud Shed business opening times vary

FAB DAD!

Historically, Father’s Day is a day to honour our dads and celebrate fatherhood, paternal bonds and their influence in society.

We all probably remember one or two things our dads helped us with as we were growing up, whether it was teaching you to ride a bike, sitting through endless school plays or helping with homework. Whatever it was, sometimes we don’t always appreciate what they did for us until we are grown up ourselves with children of our own. So, what better way to say thank you than treating him to something special for Father’s Day.

Sometimes it’s not just about the material gifts you get, but about spending time with your dad. So, look for activities you can do together, where you can both create memories. There are lots of experience days that offer something different.

If he’s into sport, many football clubs offer tours of their stadiums. A behind the scenes look around his favourite club could be the perfect gift.

How about tickets to a show, open air theatre, outdoor cinema screening, comedy club or a sporting event? There’s always plenty going on, just check out the local what’s on guides.

If the weather is nice, you could do something as simple as taking your dad for a walk in the park or countryside, followed by a pint and a pub lunch. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to bring the whole family together. Why not organise a family games day, filled with traditional games such as Monopoly, Charades or Twister? It could take you all back on a nostalgic journey of your childhood. Whatever you decide to do, give your dad an experience that he’ll always treasure. n

This year, Father’s Day falls on 18th June so let’s celebrate and make his day extra special

Apre-marital agreement, also known as a pre-nuptial agreement (prenup) is a legal document drawn up by a couple before their marriage to set out how their assets will be divided should they divorce. They are most commonly used where one party to the marriage has greater assets than the other party and seeks to protect those assets should the marriage break down. With an estimated 42 per cent of marriages ending in divorce, it’s well worth considering.

A pre-nup can assist with:

• P rotecting assets acquired before the marriage

• P rotecting business interests

• P rotecting your assets should your partner have debts

• E nsuring your children are provided for –including those from a previous relationship

• Set out how your assets and debt will be divided should you divorce

• Set out what financial provision you will make for each other should you divorce

PRE-MARITAL AGREEMENTS: HOW TO PROTECT YOUR ASSETS

If you have significant assets acquired prior to your relationship and marriage there is no guarantee that these will be protected on divorce, due to the established principles in family law of sharing and meeting ‘needs’. If you have a significant pension that has been accrued prior to the marriage you may wish to protect this. Again, in the absence of a pre-nup your pre-marital pension would be at risk should you divorce.

Whilst pre-nups are not legally binding in the UK, they are becoming more accepted by the courts when couples divorce. To ensure your agreement will be followed by the Courts, there are certain aspects that need to be followed:

• The agreement must be valid – entered into freely and willingly by both parties

• The agreement must have been made at least 28 days before the marriage –ideally longer

• It must be a deed, signed by both parties

• B oth parties must have had financial disclosure of the other person’s assets before signing the agreement

If you are a shareholder in a limited company, established well before the marriage, you may seek to protect this and agree that this will not be considered a ‘marital asset’ on divorce.

A pre-nup needs to be tailored to your individual circumstances but will often include:

P roperty held in your sole name or in joint names

• Savings/ISAs/Premium Bonds

• Business interests

• Pensions

• I nherited wealth and gifts

• Future earnings

• B oth parties must have received independent legal advice before signing the agreement

• The terms must not be detrimental to the welfare of any children

Pre-nups are not just for the rich. If you want to create certainty as to how your assets will be divided in the event of divorce, then a pre-nup can achieve this. Certainly, if you have any pre-acquired assets that you wish to protect in the event of a divorce then a pre-nup is required. n

To speak to a family law specialist, contact Sarah Robson, Family Associate by email at: sarah.robson@forbessolicitors.co.uk or call on 0333 207 1130

It may not be the most romantic consideration when you’re planning a wedding, but many couples want to create certainty as to what will happen with their assets should they divorce. Forbes’ Associate Solicitor Sarah Robson, looks at the benefits of having such an agreement

WITH AN ESTIMATED 42 PER CENT OF MARRIAGES ENDING IN DIVORCE, IT’S WELL WORTH CONSIDERING A PRE-NUP

I DO, I DO, I DO…

couple of years.

Booking the venue is usually the first thing to consider. In Preston and Fylde we have many and varied venues – from bijou boutique locations to grand country houses so whatever style of wedding you are seeking, a date maybe available for you this year.

shopping for wedding rings.

A few months before you tie the knot send out your invitations and you should then soon be able to confirm numbers with your chosen venue. Think about a seating plan and consider who you’re going to delegate wedding day duties to.

With many weddings having had to be re-scheduled over the past couple of years, it may come as something of a surprise that this has left some dates available this year.

If you don’t want to spend years planning for your big day, why not see which venues still have last-minute bookings available.

For those who want to get married without delay, this could be your chance! While the UK has seen a surge in wedding bookings, most are for 2024 and 2025 so couples have plenty of time to plan. But if you’re happy to simplify things, it is quite easy to organise a wedding in a few months as opposed to a

Once you have set your date and found a venue that can accommodate you, book the registrar or the service.

Once you have these two things ticked off –the rest should be relatively plain sailing. Find a photographer, florist and cake-maker, reserve suits if you’re hiring, start the search for that all important wedding gown and go

Many venues have wedding organisers and co-ordinators that will work with you in the run-up to your big day, which takes any worry away.

We are lucky enough to live in a region that has many and varied beautiful wedding venues within just a few square miles – there are exciting city venues or choose a country style wedding in one of the pretty villages on the rural, outlying periphery.

This area really is a fabulous place, where you and your guests could be experiencing a joy-filled day that will make 2023 a memorable year! If you dream of saying ‘I do’ this year then check out the venues and see what dates are available. n

A number of wedding venues still have dates available this year for couples who don’t want to wait to tie the knot

IN PRESTON AND FYLDE WE HAVE MANY AND VARIED VENUES –FROM BIJOU BOUTIQUE LOCATIONS TO GRAND COUNTRY HOUSES

Discover a venue as unique as your love story. The Out Barn, a family-owned and run venue, offers unparalleled flexibility in a truly exclusive setting.

Discover the magic of The Out Barn, where traditional heritage meets modern luxury. Our 17th Century hay barn has been carefully restored and developed to create an unforgettable wedding venue that perfectly balances rustic charm with contemporary design.

• SIX FABULOUS PREFERRED CATERERS

• RECEPTION & TOAST DRINKS INCLUDED IN ALL OUR PACKAGES

SHOP, EAT & SLEEP IN THE RIBBLE VALLEY

Country Pub Perfection...

Fall back in love with the Assheton Arms, the beating heart of the picture-perfect village of Downham. Flagstone floors, low-beamed ceilings and log burning stoves provide the warmest of welcomes. Refined country pub classics fill the menu and the 12 beautifully designed bedrooms are worth staying in bed for.

INCLUDES AN OVERNIGHT STAY IN A DOUBLE ROOM, BOTTLE OF PROSECCO, 2 COURSE DINNER* & BREAKFAST

Gibbon Bridge is the ideal place for lunch or dinner in the Ribble Valley, the restaurant overlooks the award-winning gardens and Longridge Fell and is open daily and offers a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. The hotel is also perfectly situated for exploring the Forest of Bowland on foot, by bicycle or by car, and throughout the year offers exceptional value with its varied calendar of events, short breaks and overnight stays. Visit the website for current offers. Whether you are visiting, or live in the area, it is the perfect place to enjoy quality homemade food and exceptional service in good company!

SUMMER CHIPPY TEAS

Fridays, 5.30pm - 6.30pm

23rd & 30th June, 7th & 21st July

4th & 25th August

Call in and sit in our gorgeous gardens for fish, chips & mushy peas for ONLY £16.95

WEDDING OPEN DAY

Saturday 1st July 11am - 2pm

Explore the gardens, meet suppliers, chat with our team and discover what we can do to make your special day perfect.

GARDEN OPEN DAY

Saturday 8th July 11am to 2pm

£20 PP - entry and picnic lunch. Meet the floral & grounds team, enjoy live music, plant stall, homemade goods & bakery stalls, bar & children’s play area. Pre booking required.

THE BEST VALUE LUNCHES IN THE RIBBLE VALLEY (Booking advised)

Lunch 12.00 – 1.30pm

1 course £22.00 I 2 courses £28 I 3 courses £34

Sunday Lunch with Pianist playing

2 courses £31 I 3 courses £38.50

Dinner 6pm to 7.30pm

2 courses £30 I 3 courses £37.50

GIN TASTING WITH GOOSNARGH GIN

Saturday 5th August

Gin Tasting 5pm Gin Themed Dinner 7pm

£275 PER COUPLE - including gin tasting, superb gin themed dinner, accommodation and breakfast and a set of miniature gins to take away. £45 PP - tasting & dinner only.

historic tours of the hall when visitors will be guided through the centuries with fascinating stories or let award-winning guide Simon Entwistle entertain the whole family with his spooky entertaining tales. Entry is completely free, but the hall does have a donation bucket – with every penny going to the upkeep of the building. For more details of the tours go to the website.

A DATE FOR YOUR DIARY

WEDDING OPEN EVENING

22nd June 2023, 5pm – 7pm

Now we are heading into summer there’s lots to do at awardwinning Samlesbury Hall –from a celebratory afternoon tea to one of the free tours of this fabulous historic building.

HERITAGE CAFÉ

In the stunning grounds of the hall is the fabulous Heritage Café which is open for delicious fresh breakfasts and afternoon tea, served Tuesday to Sunday. Enjoy the best of Lancashire with a full English or indulge in pancakes, granola, porridge or jam and toast! Visitors can also enjoy afternoon tea featuring seasonal produce with a menu that changes weekly. You can even include an indulgent glass of fizz! Book in advance to be sure of a reservation! Private dining is also an option at the Heritage Café.

DIVORCED, BEHEADED, DIED… AN AUDIENCE WITH HENRY VIII

9th & 10th June 2023, 5pm–9pm

Two fabulous evenings in the courtyard with a tale of King Henry VIII and his wives. Pizzas will be available on the night from our wood fired oven and our bar will be open and fully stocked with Prosecco & Peroni if you wish or maybe even the odd G&T!

We are offering a deal in our fabulous shepherd’s huts if you wish to stay over, all tickets and bookings must be pre-booked via skiddle.

TERRIFIC TOURS

Embark on a spellbinding walk through Samlesbury Hall with resident wicked witch Janey, who will have you enthralled with haunting tales of the hall. There are also

Featuring first class suppliers, the Wedding Open Evening will give visitors a glimpse of the secret of Samlesbury Hall’s success as a wedding venue. Guests can chat to Samlesbury Hall’s wedding co-ordinators to learn more about the various spaces within the hall, catering options and guest accommodation. There are some last-minute offers too for 2023 and 2024 weddings dates –just ask! n

Samlesbury Hall

Preston New Road Samlesbury, Preston PR5 0UP 01254 812010

info@samlesburyhall.co.uk

a date and visit Samlesbury Hall to discover a beautiful, rural venue that is perfect for any event!

Photography: Tim Emmerton

Photography: Tim Emmerton

THE LARGEST STOCKIST OF QUALITY COUNTRY CLOTHING IN THE NORTH WEST

If you are looking for the very best in country wear, footwear, accessories and quality giftware then look no further than Vareys Town and Country

EXPERIENCE EVERYTHING

When entrepreneur Louise Monk had a vision for her wellness retreat, little did she know it would attract visitors from all over the UK to the Ribble Valley.

Three years later she has well and truly captured the essence of that vision with a stunning countryside hideaway that has

luxury, wellbeing and relaxation at its heart.

Everything Retreat, quite literally, offers everything, as Louise explains: “I wanted to create a place where people could relax, go for walks, discover fabulous food and enjoy the peace and tranquility of a wellness retreat.

“I also wanted to support local businesses along the way, collaborating with artisan makers, restaurants and services – so that’s why it’s called Everything Retreat!”

Tucked away in the rolling rural countryside of the Ribble Valley, Everything Retreat really is a haven where the outside world seems to grind to a slow, quiet halt. As you draw up to the huge electronic gates that glide silently open, guests know they are set for a very special experience.

Within the grounds, with blossom trees swaying in the summer breeze and abundant wildlife, you are greeted at the reception that is first port of call for arriving guests, who as they check-in, will find themselves with a chilled welcome drink in hand.

Since the official launch of the retreat last year – an event attended by local dignitaries

A perfect getaway to restore and re-connect, the luxurious Everything Retreat really needs to be seen to be appreciated.

Photography Kirsten Platt

and VIPs – Everything has been attracting visitors across the length and breadth of the country: “We have people coming from London and even Cornwall – you can’t get much further than that,” says Louise.

“We are thrilled to be able to attract visitors here to see the sights and sounds of the Ribble Valley. We have so much to offer in terms of walks and wildlife, attractions such as Clitheroe Castle and Holmes Mill and restaurants who we have great relationships with, such as Yu and Northcote.”

WHETHER YOU’VE SPENT THE DAY HIKING IN THE HILLS OR ON AN ORGANISED RETREAT FOCUSING ON YOGA OR WELLBEING IN THE WORKPLACE, EVERYTHING RETREAT WILL ENSURE YOUR STAY IS PERFECT

It’s been an interesting and inspirational journey for Louise, who is passionate about the retreat’s wellbeing and wellness credentials. Whether that’s attending a yoga-focused break run by retreat leaders, creating wellness in the workplace via a themed retreat or just a private visit where guests can revitalise and re-connect in a quiet place, Louise and her team will ensure you have – everything!

boards along with afternoon tea. But as the summer approaches there will be BBQ and pizza evenings for guests.

Accommodation at Everything Retreat reflects the calm and quiet countryside surroundings with a series of stunning lodges nestling around a pond overlooking the rolling hills of the valley.

THE RETREAT HAS BEEN ATTRACTING VISITORS TO THE RIBBLE VALLEY FROM ALL OVER THE COUNTRY. WE HAVE PEOPLE COMING FROM LONDON AND CORNWALL

“Retreat leaders and guests can create whatever they want – they have the freedom to use the space as they wish,” says Louise.

From exercise classes to electric biking, wreath-making to wine-tasting, Everything Retreat is open-minded as to how potential visitors can use the space, which now incorporates the Balance Bar, where guests can get together and relax: “As Everything Retreat is very much about wellbeing, our ethos is ensuring that life is all about balance – hence the Balance Bar.”

At the moment the bar serves drinks and light-bites including cheese and charcuterie

There is a unique collection of themed lodges alongside the retreat’s beautiful Signature lodges, all featuring luxurious interiors with log burner and outdoor hot tubs where guests can sip a sundowner and

reflect on their day as dusk falls.

Whether you’ve spent the day exploring the Ribble Valley, hiking in the hills or on an organised retreat focusing on yoga and exercise or wellbeing in the workplace, Everything Retreat will ensure your stay is perfect. n

If you are interested in organising and leading a retreat, or if you’re a business keen to keep your workforce well to optimise output, please contact Louise. In the next issue there will be more about how you as a private individual or corporate client, can use the space at the Everything Retreat.

EVERYTHING retreat

Everything Retreat Primrose Hill, Primrose Lane Mellor BB2 7EQ 01254 965095

hello@everything-retreat.com

everything-retreat.com

everythingretreat

RibbleValley

FIVE HUNDRED YEARS OF HISTORY…

Tucked away in acres of parkland and forestry, is Browsholme Hall which has been home to 15 generations of the Parker family

If you are lucky enough to live in the Ribble Valley or if you travel from further afield, a trip to beautiful Browsholme Hall is a must-do date in your diary this summer!

Surrounding by 900 acres of woodland, forestry and parkland, Grade I listed Browsholme is first and foremost a family home that is filled with centuries of history.

Fifteen generations have passed through the house – each leaving behind their possessions, now of great historic interest.

Today, Amanda and Robert Parker are the current owners of the hall, which was built in 1507. Along with daughter Eleanor

and son Roland, they work tirelessly to bring the hall into the 21st century, updating the gardens and grounds, creating a sustainable business that attracts visitors from all over the UK.

Conducting tours on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from April to October, knowledgeable volunteers take groups around Browsholme, explaining the history of each room – from the grand main hall to the library and Regency room, each space has a story to tell.

“It’s a home with 500 plus years of history,” explains Eleanor. “It would seem our ancestors

were incredibly well travelled from the antiques we have on display. In the main hall there is civil war armour, part of a Zeppelin from WW1, elephant tusks and the diaries and pocket books of an ancestor, Elizabeth Parker, that date back to the late 1700s, giving a detailed insight into the daily lives of family, friends and life on the estate.”

Among Eleanor’s favourites is a mummified turtle brought back from the travels of Thomas Lister Parker, a great collector of

IT WOULD SEEM OUR ANCESTORS WERE INCREDIBLY WELL TRAVELLED FROM THE ARTEFACTS WE HAVE ON DISPLAY

art and antiquities – this can be seen in Browsholme’ s historic library.

An important project underway is to catalogue over 5,000 historic family papers to create a unique archive of previously undiscovered documents including handwritten recipes from the 18th century and hand-drawn maps, to letters that describe life in the trenches during the Great War.

Outside the Hall new pathways have been created through the woodland by the lake, there is an Edwardian garden and the Wilderness garden, which was originally created in 1707 to mark the Act of the Union that has recently been re-planted in the original geometric quadrants to represent the Union Jack.

Last year under the late Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee ‘Green Canopy’ project, a two-acre woodland garden was created with a selection of beautiful trees and shrubs, including rhododendron, magnolia, cherry and acers for spring and autumn colour.

Set within Browshome’s lush woodland glades are luxury lodges for overnight guests,

while there is also the light and airy threebedroom Shepherd’s Cottage, for longer stays: “All Browsholme accommodation is available to book on Airbnb,” says Eleanor.

ALL BROWSHOLME ACCOMMODATION IS AVAILABLE TO BOOK ON AIRBNB

“It is a perfect place to stay for walkers and cyclists – there are maps for guests with recommended walks in Pendle, Parlick and the Trough, and we are dog friendly too.” Guests and visitors can enjoy lunch in the popular café, located in the Cart Shed. With

Tours of Browsholme Hall, along with the delightful Cart Shed café and gardens are on Tuesdays and Wednesdays until October. Please go to the website for opening times and information. browsholme.com

seasonal specials which change each week and a fixed menu, the café is open Tuesday and Wednesday during the summer months and on Wednesdays during winter. There are occasional pop-up breakfasts in the Cart Shed, which are advertised on social media with ‘Butty & Brews’ being the most popular so far! n

To find out more about Browsholme Hall tours, café and accommodation go to the website: browsholme.com or follow them on social media

Browsholme Hall

Clitheroe Road

Cow Ark, Clitheroe BB7 3DE 01254 827160

hello@browsholme.com

browsholme.com

welcome to your own luxury lodge development in the heart of the ribble valley.

Be part of our new luxury lodge gated community in these peaceful, beautiful settings with a unique 12-month holiday home licence.

Ribble Valley View is situated near the historic market towns and villages of Whalley, Clitheroe, Ribchester, Hurst Green and Longridge, each brimming with individual shops, historic treasures and tales to be told.

Our park has the highest quality, fully furnished luxury lodges, all lodges have a large private individual parking space and raised decking, surrounding them to ensure you can enjoy the amazing views across The Ribble Valley.

WE ARE LOCATED NEXT TO THE BLACK BULL AT OLD LANGHO

A FUN SUMMER OF EVENTS

The Ribble Valley is incredibly lucky to have the North of England’s premier equestrian venue right here on our doorstep, and for anyone who hasn’t experienced the thrill of this top-level sport it’s the perfect place for a fun afternoon: “We have a big event each month and from 31st May to 4th June we have our prestigious Young Horse Show,” says Millie Coultherd, Northcote Stud’s Events Co-ordinator.

The Young Horse Show at Northcote Stud is one of the biggest in the UK with 300 horses stabled on-site.

“The event is for up-and-coming young horses and is fantastic experience for them and their riders. The focus is on courses that are built purposely for the age of the horse, so it’s the ideal opportunity to develop a young horse’s skills,” Millie explains.

“There are some exciting new changes to how we are running our young horse classes this year. We have Big Star and Talent Seekers Qualifiers, a Clear Round Day Tuesday and the Grand Prix on Saturday afternoon, which has a height of 1.45 metres and an exciting first prize of £2k!”

From 28th July to 30th the Bronze and Silver Northern Qualifiers for the Horse of the Year Show 2023 will also be taking place

at Northcote: “The Horse of the Year Show is one of the biggest events in the equestrian calendar,” says Millie. “And it is a privilege to hold some of the qualifying rounds here at our wonderful venue.”

and ice cream truck: “It really is the perfect day out,” says Millie. “It is an opportunity to relax with family and friends and watch top level sport at a local Ribble Valley venue.”

There are also opportunities to sponsor an event, or a category, or even to invest in a show jumping horse. With lots of benefits for both corporate and individual sponsors, including the opportunity to meet the winning athletes with presentation photographs.

These fabulous events at Northcote Stud are open to the public with free entry and an array of refreshments on the site: “We have the Bridle Café which has a focus on modern street food and the Saddle Lounge, which is a stylish, comfortable space to relax, with a wonderful view of the arena and a full-service bar. It is also available to hire for both corporate and family events,” explains Millie.

At the Young Horse Show there is the added bonus of a marquee with bar, a food vendor

Alongside offering top level sport on a national circuit, Northcote Stud also has a fabulous signature livery package which includes everything you could possibly want for both rider and horse and a range of training opportunities: “We offer training across all Olympic disciplines,” explains Millie. “We have world class facilities and a range of resident and visiting coaches. Northcote is an ideal place to prepare for competition or continue your horse’s education.” n

There is so much going on this summer at Northcote Stud with the main event, the Young Horse Show, at the end of May. Gail Bailey caught up with Millie Coultherd to find out more

EDUCATION NEWS

PRESTON COLLEGE – IN OUR ELEMENT

Preston College’s all-new Elements – hair, beauty and barbering salon was recently launched. After a full renovation, Elements has officially opened to encompass additional and industry standard learning spaces for hairdressing, beauty therapy, theatrical media hair and make-up learners, as well a designated area for barbering students. Preston College is the largest training provider for Adult Skills and Apprenticeships in Hair and Beauty in the

Lancashire area. Neil Capstick, CEO of Neal and Wolfe said: “It was excellent to support this event and I was personally blown away by the quality of the college, it’s such a fantastic place to learn.”

Special thanks to go to Neal and Wolfe, NSI, Ellisons, Dennis Williams, Silhouette, Eve Taylor and Eddie at JGR UK for supplying a full range of goodies for gift bags and raffle prizes.

TENNIS CHAMPIONS

Stonyhurst’s senior tennis teams were named the LTA (Lawn Tennis Association) North of England champions at a fiercely contested tournament following their victories in the knockout stages at the North West events earlier this year. Just four schools qualified from the North of England, including the whole of Scotland, for the championship, which took place at the Sunderland Tennis Centre. Stonyhurst was the only school to have both a boys and girls team qualify for the notable event, with both teams securing the North of England titles.

DEBUT FOR ENGLAND

A significant milestone in Stonyhurst’s already rich sporting history, one of its pupils recently played for the U18 England Women’s rugby team, leading the team to victory against Wales. Connie, a scholar in her final year at Stonyhurst College, was selected to play for the starting XV, and scored two tries, helping the team to reign victorious over the Welsh side, with a final score of 48-5. Playing on the left wing, the sports star made her 15-a-side international debut, after playing for the England U18 7s team last summer. The 18-year-old is an outstanding all-round sportswoman. Alongside rugby, she represents Stonyhurst in hockey, netball, and cricket.

TES AWARD

Giggleswick School in Settle is proud to have been shortlisted for ‘Best Use of Technology’ in the TES School Awards 2023. The prestigious awards recognise the very best that the education sector has to offer and include entrants from UK state and independents across early years, primary and secondary. The awards are a well-respected achievement and are judged by an expert panel comprising school leaders, experts and education researchers.

The winners will be announced on Friday 23rd June 2023 at a gala ceremony at London’s Grosvenor Park Hotel.

SPORTING ACHIEVEMENTS CELEBRATED

Westholme held their annual Sports Awards dinner at Ewood Park, home of Blackburn Rovers FC, to celebrate students’ sporting achievements of the past 12 months.

The guest speaker was Ali Ghazanfar, former Pakistan hockey captain, who spoke about his love of the sport and

playing for the Pakistan Junior Hockey side since the age of 19 before going on to play for Pakistan in over 245 international matches. He also represented Pakistan in the 2002 and 2006 Hockey World Cups, the Commonwealth Games in 2002, as well as international tournaments.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

far from the truth. At the 2022 inspection it was highlighted that the children had “extremely good ICT skills” with the potential for extending their abilities even further.

To allow for this extension of learning Ashbridge has recently embarked on a large-scale project to develop the use of technology throughout the school.

technology offering has been transformed. Internet and server capabilities have been significantly upgraded, 70 new laptops and 40 tablets were purchased for use in all classes from Reception to Year 6 and the older, but still functional desktops were donated to other local establishments. The STEM suite, which used to be set up with desktops in rows, has been transformed into a Tech Hub, with moveable desk space, bean bags and breakout areas, to help children to prepare for the world of work in modern office spaces.

Ashbridge Independent School, based on the outskirts of Preston in rural Hutton, has always been ahead of the curve with their curriculum, facilities and ethos.

Judged to be ‘Excellent’ in all areas, the highest grade possible, by the Independent Schools Inspectorate in 2022, Ashbridge believe that children achieve their full academic and wider potential when they are happy, adventurous and spend a significant proportion of their days outdoors. The children enjoy Land Based Studies lessons, explore giant boulders carved from Lake District slate and the school is one of only two Forest School Association accredited primary schools in Lancashire.

With such a focus on outdoor learning you could be forgiven for thinking that the children at Ashbridge may not be up to speed with modern technology, but that is

Over a number of months and with an investment of over £100,000, the school’s

The teachers have fully embraced the new technology, focusing on integrating it into their curriculum to enhance the children’s learning. At Ashbridge this means taking the tablets out in forest sessions to identify plants with an app, working together to develop a business plan for their extra-curricular Business Club while sitting on comfy bean bags, or using music production software to understand pitch in science lessons.

Links with home have strengthened too, with children able to send home pictures, videos and demonstrations of their work as well as share homework easily with their teachers and peers. The school is looking forward to welcoming parents and families for a showcase evening in the summer term.

The next steps for Ashbridge are specialised training for the teachers to allow them to create even more opportunities for the children, additional investment in devices and extending the integration of technology and the outdoors even further. With these exciting developments ahead, the children of Ashbridge Independent School will be well prepared for the next step of their lives, confident in their abilities and ready for whatever the future will bring. n

Pupils at Ashbridge Independent School are benefiting from significant investment in technology that will prepare them for an exciting future

WITH THESE EXCITING DEVELOPMENTS AHEAD, THE CHILDREN OF ASHBRIDGE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL WILL BE WELL PREPARED FOR THE NEXT STEP OF THEIR LIVES

IN A CLASS OF ITS OWN

Imagine an education that would give your child a broad curriculum that promotes knowledge and confidence and a co-curricular timetable that develops life-skills and lifelong friendship. You would think any school would be hardpressed to deliver on all of those aspects. Well, think again. At Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall youngsters are given opportunities in abundance enabling them to experience all that the school has to offer in terms of academic development as well as cultural, artistic and sporting progression.

YEAR 5 – YEAR 8

If your child is approaching their final years at primary school, you may find that SATS loom large on the horizon – especially for teachers, who are under pressure to go through the assessment process to prove all pupils are at the expected standard. Pupils who are not already at that standard will quite understandably be prioritised, meaning more able pupils may not receive the attention and academic stretch and challenge they deserve.

Fr Christopher Cann, headteacher of Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall, explains: “In state

primary schools the focus has to be on the pupils at risk of not achieving the expected SATS level. As a result, the capable pupils often become disillusioned and bored with school. For the talented ones there’s not enough time for sport, or the creative subjects of art, music and drama. This is not the case at Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall, where we deliberately offer a broad and balanced curriculum in Years 5 and 6 taught by subject specialists. For example, timetabled drama, swimming, dance, instrumental music, drama, French, Spanish, German and Latin are all part of our curriculum. We therefore see a good number of pupils joining us at this stage in their education.”

option, (Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall goes up to Year 8) to allow the children to make a much happier transition from junior to senior education.

Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall pupils begin their smooth journey from junior to senior education through Years 5 to 8, experiencing the distinctive year-group ‘playroom’ system in Lower Elements, Upper Elements, Figures and Rudiments: “It means the sudden and sometimes difficult move from junior to senior education is avoided and we can work with our colleagues in the College for the much happier transition at the end of Year 8. There is a set route allowing an intake from Year 5 upwards that enables pupils to be part of Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall and all that we have to offer in our distinctive curriculum,” explains Fr Christopher.

ENRICHED CURRICULUM

A move in Year 5 to Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall will enable your child to thrive in a highly creative learning environment that prolongs their childhood in the most positive sense. For children joining from the state sector, it provides a much cherished ‘middle school’

With a broad curriculum, pupils at Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall benefit from ‘real-life’ experiences at a young age so they are able to see exactly what they are learning about, whether that’s a trip down to the River Hodder to learn about geographical river features, erosion and tributaries or a walk across to the Stonyhurst College campus to visit the magnificent historical museum and archives.

“Pupils followed up their visit to the River Hodder by designing and making boats in their Design and Technology lesson. It is a

Stonyhurst is the only school in the county to feature in Tatler’s Schools Guide, find out why…

far more imaginative way of learning and is very focused on key life skills – sadly in the state sector, given the constraints of a shortened day and a narrow prescribed curriculum, teachers so often do not have the time to do this,” adds Fr Christopher, who points out that prep pupils have access to Stonyhurst’s swimming pool, dance studio, Astro-turf, world-class tennis dome and professional on-site theatre, as well as specialist coaching.

“Our Year 6 pupils recently took part in a stage production of Matilda – it was like a little West End show! Those who weren’t in the cast had the opportunity to work alongside the lighting and tech team, so everyone was able to use their new skills and take part.”

LEARNING TOGETHER

As a leading independent school, Stonyhurst College and Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall has been educating girls alongside boys for more than two decades. At Stonyhurst parity is ensured across the board in terms of opportunities: “Girls’ sport is very robust at Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall – there is a real girls’ sporting culture that has been developed over the years,” adds Fr Christopher, who explains that one of the schools Year 6 girls has recently been ranked in the UK’s tennis top 10. “The curriculum as a whole has developed and progressed through the years – it is very creative in terms of art and design, textiles and food technology. Year 4 have been making their own chocolate bars and cakes, designing the packaging and devising a marketing strategy.

“We work hard to ensure children are proud doing what they enjoy and developing their talents – it’s a very open culture that celebrates learning and success.”

BURSARIES

Stonyhurst has also increased its bursary provision for exceptionally talented over-11 pupils: “As an organisation this has really grown. It’s a big part of our school to give talented children the opportunity of a Stonyhurst education. It’s a life-changing

experience for gifted children, who have a pathway to support them.”

EXTENDED DAY & BOARDING

At Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall there is also an extended day – from 8am to 6pm – allowing for after school ‘studies’ (homework) to be completed as well as a packed programme of extra-curricular activities and evening meal included in the price. The extended day offers working parents great value, offering peace of mind and is fee inclusive.

THERE IS A SET ROUTE ALLOWING AN INTAKE FROM YEAR 5 UPWARDS THAT ENABLES PUPILS TO BE PART OF STONYHURST ST MARY’S HALL AND ALL THAT WE HAVE TO OFFER

As an international school Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall also offers full boarding and flexi-boarding facilities to pupils.

“We are in a beautiful part of the Ribble Valley with more than 400 years of tradition. We have children come here from all over the world, from Mexico, Madrid and Hong

TO BOOK YOUR PRIVATE VISIT SCAN THE QR CODE

Kong, to name but a few. For local Lancashire children it’s an amazing opportunity to make new friends and learn about new cultures,” enthuses Fr Christopher, who explains that SMH pupils are part of a global ‘zoom generation’ that will learn and work globally.

“Having a dynamic, broad outlook has always been part of the Stonyhurst Jesuit tradition. For local Lancashire families Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall gives them the opportunity to send their child to a globally diverse school with a strong family identity.” n

smhadmissions@stonyhurst.ac.uk 01254 827073

stonyhurst.ac.uk

HAPPY 100TH BIRTHDAY!

It was all about having fun for pupils at Westholme School, which recently celebrated its centenary year, writes Meena McDonald

The inspirational and infectious energy of Westholme shone when the school held its Centenary Birthday Party last month.

The momentous celebrations embraced all the values the pioneering Lancashire independent school holds close to its heart –authenticity, enthusiasm, commitment, fun, team-spirit, vibrancy, resilience and a genuine belief that anything is possible.

created a day that will remain a delightful memory for every student for the rest of their lives, with the experience no doubt retold many times.

Students returned from their Easter break to the amazing party, packed with balloons, bunting, banners, music and entertainment throughout the whole school environment.

the dining hall was full of truly creative and astounding outfits.

The Senior and INSPIRED Sixth Form students were immersed in various themes around school from The Great Escape, with numerous challenge scenarios, to Westholme Through the Ages with quizzes, dances and collaborative art creating. Every student was given a voucher which entitled them to a sweet treat, a magic mirror photo booth session and a glitter tattoo. The children had a tremendous amount of fun dressing up and having photos taken with their friends, which were printed immediately for them to enjoy as a keepsake.

The 100-year celebrations organised by the teaching staff encompassed the whole four to 18 school and every student was thoroughly involved in a wide range of funfilled activities.

In the classic Westholme way, they

Prep pupils were involved in an outdoor treasure hunt with numerous challenges to complete along the way and finished their exciting day with a Through the Decades party where each Prep year dressed in a different decade from the school’s history. From rock and roll to the swinging sixties,

Outdoors in the beautiful grounds, there was a diverse range of activities for students to embrace too, such as an inflatable course, slalom, parachute and a tower challenge. All this, along with cake stalls and an ice cream van, ensured the celebrations continued right up until home time when everyone left school with huge smiles.

Westholme isn’t the only one celebrating

its centenary – so is Disney!

So, Westholme adopted the Disney theme in their production which was performed by all of the staff on stage in the majestic Croston Theatre. The exuberant atmosphere was electrifying as the students gazed at the amazing animal outfits, singing solos and duets. The cheers and uproar of laughter were audible from the end of Meins Road! Comments from the students about the day included: “Fabulous, amazing and a day to remember!”

commented: “The unique spirit of Westholme really was captured in the birthday celebrations and will remain an ever-lasting jubilant memory for every member of staff and student

involved. Our commitment to continue to pioneer the future of education, which our students experience daily, really came to the fore on our special day encapsulating our unrivalled holistic excellence at Westholme.”

Of course, you can’t have a birthday party without a cake! But the Westholme cake wasn’t just any old cake, it was over a metre in length and enough to serve a slice for every single one of the school’s 800 students. The special 100 number, designed and constructed by the Design Technology department, stood large and proud on the top for everyone to see.

During the Disney birthday cake assembly, everyone sang a very touching Happy Birthday and then the current and incoming Head Boys and Head Girls blew out all 100 candles! It was an incredibly moving and momentous occasion for the whole school.

Dr Richard Robson, Principal of

Seniors/INSPIRED Sixth Form

Open Evening

5th October 2023 registrar@westholmeschool.com

This really was an occasion for the entire Westholme family and it is hard to imagine another birthday party like it! n

If you are eager to find out more about the distinctive educational philosophy on display at Westholme please contact: registrar@westholmeschool.com

Or visit the exciting Seniors/INSPIRED Sixth Form Open Evening on 5th October 2023

Westholme School

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

Westholme

THE WESTHOLME CAKE WASN’T JUST ANY OLD CAKE, IT WAS OVER A METRE IN LENGTH AND ENOUGH TO SERVE A SLICE FOR EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THE SCHOOL’S 800 STUDENTS

Ian Liddle of Farleys Solicitors chats to Gail Bailey about his inspirational career journey and the importance of charitable fundraising

Born in Sunderland and one of five children, Ian Liddle admits he didn’t have an easy start in life:

“My dad was in the Merchant Navy and rarely home, so my mum brought us up on her own. We lived on a council estate where money was tight,” Ian says.

Losing his mother suddenly when he was just 13, was a difficult time and whilst initially Ian’s elder three sisters cared for him and his younger brother, this wasn’t sustainable, and the boys went away to school: “My dad managed to get myself and my brother a place at Ackworth School and this really was a turning point,” Ian explains.

“I had an interview with Farleys to work as an office junior – and I have been here ever since!”

Ian’s interview wasn’t as you would expect and consisted of being asked if he was any good at football and was invited to play in a game that evening. He obviously impressed them with his skills on the pitch as he was offered the position and was then supported through university, before returning as a trainee solicitor eager to develop the commercial arm of the business.

“Farleys didn’t have a commercial department when I started, and this was the area of law that interested me most. I am grateful to have been given the opportunity and I gradually built our client base, along with our reputation, and it’s now the largest department in the practice – not all down to me of course but I’d like to think I started it!”

Day celebration, established 18 years ago, is a corporate fundraising event hosted by Farleys that has supported Cash4Kids helping young people and their families.

Blackburn Youth Zone is another charity that has benefited from Ian and Farleys fundraising: “Myself and Paul Westhead (who was President of Blackburn Rugby Club at the time) were invited to a beer festival to raise money for Bolton Lads and Girls Club and on the way home we decided we could do something similar right here in Blackburn.”

“Life had been far from easy, and I had very few aspirations about my future, but suddenly I was sitting next to peers who were aiming high! With my friends wanting to be pilots or go into medicine, I suddenly had the realisation that as I was doing as well academically as they were, why couldn’t I aspire to achieve more? I thought my path was already laid out in front of me, but I started to see a different life ahead and I worked hard to get there.”

Ian had decided he’d like to go into the legal profession but on leaving school he sadly didn’t have anywhere to live, so opted for a career that would ensure he had a home: “I thought my only choices were the armed forces or the police,” he says. After successfully being offered a role in the police, the parents of a friend who knew he didn’t really want to be a police officer, offered him their spare room whilst he explored other options –and this is what brought him to Blackburn:

Now a Managing Partner in the business, Ian has always felt a responsibility to give back and charity work has been a big part of his professional life: “I appreciate that life could have been very different for me, and I want other children to have the same opportunities they may not otherwise have. I grew up in an area where people didn’t have much, and I have seen the impact that deprivation and neglect can have on the life chances of children. Helping those from low income and deprived backgrounds is really important to me and drives me to want to keep raising funds to make a difference.

“Ability can be there but not having stability, support or a good role model can be life limiting,” Ian says.

“My mindset changed during my time at Ackworth School. I had my own lucky break and I want to help other children realise their own potential.”

Ian’s own fundraising began with a bike ride from Paris to Blackburn to raise money for Cash4Kids where he then became a trustee for eight years and who he still holds regular events to raise money for. An annual St Patrick’s

Held at the rugby club in 2014 and sponsored by Farleys, the beer festival still continues and has been instrumental in raising significant sums for Blackburn Youth Zone.

Farleys now has its own Charitable Foundation, established six years ago that makes regular contributions to local children’s charities: “Farleys has recently become part of The Lawfront Group Ltd, which will help to accelerate our own growth plans and strengthen the offer we can give to our clients. We employ over 160 people over seven offices, and with our success we can continue our commitment to being immersed in the community and wanting to give back by growing our charitable presence.

“It is hugely important to me personally that we continue to grow our charity work as we continue to grow as a business,” Ian adds. “No child should be limited due to a difficult start in life – I’m testament to that –and it’s my driver to ensure other children get the chance to raise their own aspirations and make the right choices too.” n

farleys.com

I GREW UP IN AN AREA WHERE PEOPLE DIDN’T HAVE MUCH AND HAVE SEEN FIRST-HAND THE IMPACT THAT DEPRIVATION AND NEGLECT CAN HAVE ON THE LIFE CHANCES OF CHILDREN

IAN’S OWN FUNDRAISING BEGAN WITH A BIKE RIDE FROM PARIS TO BLACKBURN TO RAISE MONEY FOR CASH4KIDS

where business always matters

If you have any Business Matters news items contact: jan.woolley@live-magazines.co.uk

LADIES’ DAY

Preston-based business Gainsborough Flooring were the proud sponsors of Ladies’ Day at Grasshoppers and the first team were thrilled to win against Tyndale 40-34. Gainsborough has had a close association with the rugby club for many years and their very own Eddy Brown still continues to play for the club. He played his first match in years on the day, alongside team members in the fifth division. The event raised £620 for  St Catherine’s Hospice, who Gainsborough has supported for some time and where Managing Director Vicky Brown volunteers once a week. There were many raffle prizes won, kindly donated by Steve Ryding Hairdressers, the Beauty Rooms at Preston and SBCA chartered accountants. The team at Gainsborough has thanked all the ladies who supported the event and made the afternoon so much fun. Good luck to Hoppers who also won their next game 34-7 against Harrogate!

£3,000 COMMUNITY FUND

Community groups, charities, schools and good causes can apply for a new community fund in Fulwood. The £3,000 community fund has been launched to mark the next phase of Redrow’s Tabley Green development in the town. This voluntary gift to the community is over and above the statutory investment from Redrow, which include contributions to community infrastructure of more than £2 million. Sian Pitt, sales director at Redrow Lancashire, said: “We want to hear about all the wonderful community work that is taking place in Fulwood. The fund is open to all not-for-profit groups working within or serving Fulwood, we have £3,000 to share. Community plays a huge part in choosing where to live and we hope this fund will play a part in forging an ever-stronger sense of community in Fulwood.” Previous Redrow funding across the North West has helped schools, charities, youth groups, sports teams and individuals at the very heart of the community, providing a range of resources including school uniform, repairs at allotments and new facilities at a cricket club.

VIRTUAL FINANCE DIRECTOR SERVICE

McDade Roberts has launched a new MR Financial Director package to shine a light on the direction for businesses to go next. Designed for ambitious, high growth Lancashire businesses who are outgrowing their existing finance systems, but not ready for the full time employment commitment of an in-house Finance Director or the £100k+ salary, the MR Finance Director Service is being warmly welcomed by the local business community. Every business owner would love an approachable finance director to clarify strategic direction and make sense of the numbers but not all businesses are ready for the financial commitment this role commands. Kevin Carey, Martin Garry and Christine Richards were acutely aware of this fact after many years as directors of McDade Roberts which is based in Fulwood, Longridge and Bamber Bridge.

The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in Preston and Fylde,

MAKING PLANS

Fox Lifestyle Financial Planning Limited, an independent lifestyle financial planning and advice business, has opened an office on Winckley Square in Preston following a sustained period of growth for the firm.

Founder and Managing Director Stephen Fox, who entered the industry in 2009, advised how Winckley Square had always been in his sights from a young age: “We are tremendously excited and proud to have our main business premises right in the heart of Preston city centre. Winckley Square and

the centre itself, is a place I spent a lot of time growing up, with my father holding the role of Site Director at the then British Aerospace Strand Road site, which is just a stone’s throw away.

“Having spent a lot of time here it was always the plan to have a base on Winckley Square at some stage in my life. The square itself has undergone extensive redevelopment in recent years and our offices are nicely positioned at number 25 delivering a fantastic view while we work and for our clients to enjoy when they come in to see us.

“With onsite parking and the train station just a few minutes away, we are pleased to have a further option for our clients who had previously been travelling to the Liverpool offices we work from or hosting our meetings in their home or locality.”

What does a Lifestyle Financial Planner actually do?

• Investment management

• Pensions and retirement planning

• Inheritance tax planning

• Later life and long-term care planning

• General protection services including life cover and critical illness

What does that mean in plain English?

We exist primarily to add support in an area people often find confusing – financial planning. By listening to our customers, we are then able to properly understand what their problems are and what they are looking to achieve. We make no apologies for the range of questions that arise in our first ‘discovery’ session, which is likely to take the full hour. We initially focus on family background, investment experience and risk tolerance before moving on to objectives, income and expenditures and wider asset position right the way through to the clients planned point of retirement and how much is going to be enough for them when the time comes. All areas are key to our learning before we can provide advice. n

Fox Lifestyle Financial Planning Ltd

No 25 Winckley Square

Preston PR1 3JJ

01772 364002

07540 271083

stephen@foxlifefp.com foxlifefp.com

Fox Lifestyle Financial Planning Limited is an Appointed Representative of Flying Colours, which is a trading name of Flying Colours Advice Limited, which is, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under number 672022. We are registered in England and Wales under company number 11056247 at No 25 Winckley Square, Preston, Lancashire PR1 3JJ.

Stephen Fox explains how he and his team can help you plan your financial future. Photography: Roger Moore

BY LISTENING TO OUR CUSTOMERS, WE ARE THEN ABLE TO PROPERLY UNDERSTAND WHAT THEY ARE LOOKING TO ACHIEVE

THE GRENADIER IS HERE…

The INEOS Grenadier is an uncompromising 4X4 built from the ground up, engineered to be a rugged, capable and comfortable go-anywhere working vehicle.

Practical features include a 70:30 split rear door, integrated roof bars, pre-wiring for auxiliary lamps and accessories and a front bumper to sit on. An ‘open-source’ approach to accessories means owners can tailor the vehicle to their specific requirements.

The interior combines utilitarian practicality with the technology and comfort today’s drivers expect. Its intuitive and functional layout features physical switches that are widely spaced for easy use on the move, a central infotainment screen and an overhead console for off-road and auxiliary controls. Hose-out rubber flooring, hard-wearing Recaro seats and numerous stowage options mean the Grenadier is ready for anything work and life can throw at it.

Bowker Ribble Valley was officially appointed as the sole Lancashire partner for the new INEOS Grenadier 4X4 in 2022. The agreement sees Bowker operate in partnership with INEOS from the automotive retailer’s

existing Bowker Ribble Valley dealership on the A59 in Osbaldeston near Blackburn. It is one of 24 UK sites that are among the first 160 locations in markets around the world.

Bowker Ribble Valley offers a full INEOS aftersales facility. The Bowker partnership with INEOS Automotive is overseen by Managing Director Chris Eccles, supported by the existing Bowker Ribble Valley team.

development and manufacturing. The Grenadier combines rugged British spirit with German engineering rigour, resulting in a truly nononsense 4X4. We look forward to building another successful partnership worthy of the Lancashire motoring community.”

Jack Stanley, Regional Business Manager UK and Ireland for INEOS Automotive, adds: “We have worked tirelessly for over a year to find retail partners that share our enthusiasm and excitement for the Grenadier.

“We have so far established a global network of over 160 partners who understand 4X4 users and their requirements and have a proven track record for exceptional customer service. We are working with these partners to ensure they are ready to offer Grenadier customers and owners the advice, guidance and support they need.” n

Full information on pricing, specification and ordering process is available on the website

Paul Bowker, Bowker Motor Group Chief Executive, said: “It is a huge privilege to be chosen by INEOS to be their nominated partner in Lancashire. We have already established award-winning motor retail experiences in Preston and Blackburn with some of the world’s most prestigious motoring brands. The partnership with INEOS is the next exciting chapter for us.

“INEOS brings a fresh perspective to 4X4

Bowker Ribble Valley

Bay Horse Garage, Longsight Road

Osbaldeston BB2 7HX 01254 769069

bowkermotorgroup.co.uk/ineos-grenadier

B owker INEOS Grenadier

bowker_ineosgrenadier

Bowker Ribble Valley unveils the INEOS Grenadier that combines utilitarian practicality with today’s technology and comfort

THE GRENADIER COMBINES RUGGED BRITISH SPIRIT WITH GERMAN ENGINEERING RIGOUR, RESULTING IN A TRULY NO-NONSENSE 4X4

SILENCE IS GOLDEN

the total manufactured volume in 2023.

Paul

Photography: Peter Austin

Going electric. Is it such a big deal? Short answer: No. If you put your trust in BMW - and why on earth not – switching to an electric car makes sound sense and is very straightforward.

There are numerous advantages and you really don’t have anything to worry about. There is no better example than the BMW i4 eDrive.

Is it quick off the mark? Is it sufficiently powerful? Does it go far enough on a charge?

How about 0-62mph in 5.7 seconds, 340 hp and a range of up to 365 miles?

With emissions at zero and the UK already set up with close on 25,000 charging locations – incorporating 42,566 electric vehicle charging points according to Zap Map – these statistics must surely leave the doubters with nowhere to go.

It looks the real deal and handles with what can only be described as quiet efficiency. While it is currently making a big noise in the motoring world, this is a car to be seen, not heard.

I tested the BMW i4 eDrive40 with rear-wheel drive and one electric motor, while BMW also offers the M50 variant, complete with two motors and four-wheel drive.

With regards to technology and connectivity, there is a 12.3” digital cockpit instrument cluster sited within a curved 14.9” CID (Central Information Display). Quite stunning.

You’ll find BMW IconicSounds electric, remote software upgrades, Smartphone and Amazon Alexa integrations, adaptive recuperation, parking assistant, cruise control with braking function, BMW operating system ID8 software, BMW intelligent personal assistant, BMW navigation system and a couple of useful USB connections.

The silence is golden across the range with BMW just announcing that order books have now opened for the eDrive35, making it the latest model to join the fully-electric BMW family (with a very attractive OTR price from £49,995).

All are painstakingly assembled at the BMW Group Munich Plant where it is expected that the production volume-share of fullyelectric cars will increase to 50 per cent of

With regards to comfort and practicality, there are 18” light alloy wheels, double-spoke style bicolour, high-gloss black interior trim, high-gloss shadowline exterior trim, sport leather steering wheel, BMW iBlue elements throughout, sport seats as standard and acoustic glass.

And as for the overall driving performance? Awesome.

Agnew test drives the BMW i4 eDrive40, a great performer with stunning looks – a car designed to be seen not heard.

IT LOOKS THE REAL DEAL AND HANDLES WITH WHAT CAN ONLY BE DESCRIBED AS QUIET EFFICIENCY

Although there is no engine noise, you can have ‘engine sound’ from none other than German film score composer Hans Zimmer –all operated via a driving experience switch!

Put your foot down – trust me this is one responsive, quick-off-the-mark, exhilarating ride – and the noise gets louder with the pitch rising as your speed increases.

BMW understand the importance of charging capabilities, both at home and in public. That’s why they’re offering either a complimentary standard Pod Point 7kW Home Charger with standard installation or £750 public charging credit for your BMW Charging account when you order an all-electric BMW before 30th June 2023*

The standard Pod Point Home Charger offers the following benefits:

• E fficient charging compared to a domestic three-pin socket

• E xpert Pod Point installation

• A ccess to the Pod Point app to view charging activity, track costs and schedule charging

As an alternative, you can opt for £750 credit towards BMW Charging instead:

W ith BMW Charging, you can charge nationwide and across Europe in one of the largest and constantly growing public charging networks with over 300,000 charging points.

History suggests that BMW invariably get things right. So, perhaps it’s time for us all to venture with confidence toward an electric future? n

T&C’s apply, see website for details

Bowker Preston

Channel Way

Preston PR2 2YA

01772 769976

bowkerprestonbmw.co.uk

@BowkerBMW

@bmw_bowker

bowker-motor-group

HISTORY SUGGESTS THAT BMW INVARIABLY GET THINGS RIGHT. SO, PERHAPS IT’S TIME FOR US ALL TO VENTURE WITH CONFIDENCE TOWARD AN ELECTRIC FUTURE?

POLE POSITION

Prepared to be blown away by the all-electric Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo. It drives like a dream, oozes style and is super sleek, writes Paul Agnew. Photography: Peter Austin

Electric cars are unquestionably a force for good. The benefits are crystal clear, particularly with regards to the environment and the significant improvement in air quality. They help make our villages, towns and cities healthier places in which to live and breathe. They also make sound sense economically, requiring less maintenance and lower (much lower) running costs.

In short, they are very much the good guys of the motoring world, quietly going about their business with minimum fuss and maximum efficiency.

Obviously all of that is positively super-duper, but my question is this:

Can an electric car be fun?

I got my answer the other day in the shape –and a stunning shape it is too – of the

Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo. To be specific the 4S model in one of the special Porsche colours, Crayon, with a black leather interior complemented with Crayon stitching. Lovely. And let me tell you that within a matter of minutes it became obvious why the Taycan Sport Turismo is currently hailed by the battle-hardened, hard-to-please motoring critics as the ‘best high-end electric vehicle available’.

AT THE TOP END IS THE GTS WITH 598HP, A 0-60MPH TIME OF 3.7 SECONDS AND A TOP SPEED OF 155MPH. YES, JUST TO CONFIRM, THIS IS AN ALL-ELECTRIC CAR

Praise indeed, so what makes it the stand-out option?

Well, it certainly looks the part. Every inch a Porsche and oozing kerb appeal with a sumptuous interior all about comfort, style and ease of use. Every function is at your fingertips.

Oh, and by the way – it drives like a dream. Super sporty (as you would expect from any car featuring the iconic Porsche badge) it also manages to craftily combine high performance

thrills with solid family practicality.

The overall design is ultra sleek and it sits lower down to the road than usual for an estate and with some stylish alloy wheel choices. Very cool.

Inside, you’ll find just about everything you could ever need. The displays, cockpit, console, dashboard, call it what you will, is little short of magnificent – one for the instrument binnacle and the other for the central infotainment system and the 4S offers an additional screen for your front passenger too so they have some control over entertainment. I’ve been to cinemas with smaller screens!

Space inside is better than okay and the estate-style offers plenty of room for luggage. But for all the practicality, Porsche has built its name on performance and power and you can be assured of both with the Taycan Sport Turismo, whichever model you go for.

At the top end is the GTS with 598hp, a 0-60mph time of 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 155mph. Yes, just to confirm, this is an all-electric car. Talking of which, one of the main considerations is the ‘range’ and once again it scores well. If you were to select a Performance Plus Battery, you can expect

306 miles on one charge. However, in the normal scheme of things that figure hovers around 250 miles.

There are all the usual Porsche refinements, including the famous clock, and you can opt for things like a very sleeky SportDesign Package, LED door courtesy lights, adaptive air suspension, power steering plus, tinted LED matrix main headlights, fixed panoramic roof, privacy glass, Porsche crests here there and everywhere and electric sport sound. You never lose the sense of sophistication when you sit in a Porsche. There is just something special going on, presenting a real tingle of excitement and this car certainly follows that trend.

So, accepting that going forward electric cars are the future, the superb Porsche Taycan Sports Turismo sits proudly in pole position. n

If you ever need a rapid getaway the Launch Control function produces maximum acceleration from a standing start.

To list the car’s attractive features, inside and out, would see me far exceed my word count for this review. Safe to say you will want for absolutely nothing and be suitably impressed at every turn. Impressed? More like blown away.

Porsche Centre Preston Watery Lane, Preston PR2 1QJ 01772 911911

porschepreston.co.uk

@PorscheCentrePreston

@Porsche_Preston

@Porsche_Preston

THE TAYCAN SPORT TURISMO IS CURRENTLY HAILED BY THE BATTLE-HARDENED, HARD-TO-PLEASE MOTORING CRITICS AS THE ‘BEST HIGH-END ELECTRIC VEHICLE AVAILABLE’

POWER &

PERFORMANCE

The Defender P400e is a big beast of a car with exceptional handling, power and performance. Paul Agnew takes it for a spin to find out more. Photography: Roger Moore

Life is about squeezing the juice out of the magic moments. Those fun opportunities – some planned, others unexpected – that make you smile and feel good about the world.

Like when someone invites you to take a spin in a special vehicle.

In this case a very, very special vehicle –the new, mind-blowing, hybrid variant of the iconic Land Rover Defender 4x4.

Gleaming in the spring sunshine, the Defender P400e was a joy to behold. Every head turned to take a closer look.

But looks can be deceptive, can’t they? Not in this case. From the moment you step inside to be enveloped by the sumptuous seating and overall sense of quality and space, you know that the next half-hour or so is going to be a real treat.

The drive is little short of superb and for a

big beast of a car, the handling is exceptional. So quiet too – like a lion on the prowl, you can move in electric silence knowing that power and performance is right there should you choose to call upon it.

IT’S RENOWNED ACROSS THE MOTORING WORLD FOR ITS ABILITY AND AGILITY OVER THE TOUGHEST OF TERRAINS, BUT IT’S EQUALLY AT HOME ON MOTORWAYS AND AROUND TOWNS AND VILLAGES

The Defender P400e uses a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine, mated up to an electric motor and 19.2kWh battery for a total output of 398bhp.

That electric assistance delivers a pokey

5.6 seconds within the standard 0-62mph timeframe. Land Rover claims 85.3 mpg as the best fuel economy figure and, as you might expect, the P400e is the model with the lowest emissions.

It is also one of the few PHEVs (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles) with integrated fast charging. This allows for the battery to be topped up to 80 per cent in as little half an hour.

Impressive. But impressive is what this all-wheel drive car is all about.

In glossy Santorini Black with privacy glass, sliding panoramic roof, signature graphic, black roof rails, LED headlights, auto highbeam assist and electrically deployable tow bar, it looks every inch a modern Land Rover, a car for the time.

Not forgetting heated windscreen, heated electric power fold door mirrors, front fog

lights, automatic headlight levelling, LED tail lights, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), emergency brake assist, heated rear window with timer, rain sensing wipers, satin silver front and rear skid pan, grille bar and badging.

As for capability and dynamics, it offers All-Wheel Drive, eight-speed automatic transmission, electronic air suspension, power-assisted steering, hill launch assist and descent control and terrain response.

For further driver assistance count on 3D surround camera, lane keep and blind spot assist, adaptive cruise control, 360⁰ parking aid, rear traffic monitor, traffic sign recognition and adaptive speed limiter.

Fancy a peep inside? The luxury look and feel continues with Ebony Windsor leather and Robustec seats, 14-way heated and cooled

electric memory front seats with four-way manual headrests, 40:20:40 folding rear seats with centre armrest, Ebony Morzine headlining, leather steering wheel (heated of course), electrically adjustable steering column and leather gearshift.

footwell lights, rear reading lights, twin front cupholders, unique X-Dynamic seat tab and treadplate – plus infotainment of the highest order.

There’s a Meridian sound system, interactive driver display, 11.4” touchscreen, DAB radio, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Pivi Pro with connected navigation and online pack with data plan, 12V power socket in loadspace and a trip computer.

For towing and safety, let’s just say (for the purposes of editorial space) it has everything you’d expect and plenty you might not.

You’ll also find configurable cabin lighting, two-zone climate control, electric cabin pre-conditioning, rear centre headrest,

But it is the effortless way this car moves that really impresses and the imperious driving position.

Of course, it’s renowned across the motoring world for its ability and agility over the toughest of terrains, but it’s equally at home on motorways and around towns and villages.

And so comfortable too. It simply glides along.

Trust me, there is no pothole anxiety here!

In summary, the Land Rover Defender P400e is for all those who relish the thrill of driving, who seek prestige, performance and practicality, who enjoy technology and refinement and who simply want to move from A to B with the utmost style and grace. n

Vertu Land Rover Bolton Kay Street, Bolton BL1 2RX 01204 910962 vertumotors.com

LIKE A LION ON THE PROWL, YOU CAN MOVE IN ELECTRIC SILENCE KNOWING THAT POWER AND PERFORMANCE IS RIGHT THERE SHOULD YOU CHOOSE TO CALL UPON IT

Endurance athlete Jordan Wyn-Jones is gearing up for an epic challenge. He is currently training for a 1700k run, walk and cycle, which he hopes will be a record-breaker – and you can join him on his journey! Photography: Roger Moore

For personal trainer Jordan Wyn-Jones, being able to do his latest world-record challenge is something he could never have imagined five years ago.

At the age of just 28, endurance athlete Jordan had a heart attack. Since then, he has fought his way back to health under the guidance of leading medical experts in London.

And he is now ready to take on his latest and greatest challenge to date, in a bid to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation.

In June, he is attempting a Guinness World Record walking and running from Brighton to Glasgow then cycling back – a total of 1700k in record time and along the way, he will be joined by various celebrities as well as members of the public who want to support his endeavour.

“This is a journey that at one point, I never thought I would be able to do. I have a great support team,” says Jordan, who has numerous sponsors involved, including Skins Sportswear and Tannus UK.

Members of the public who want to walk, run or ride with Jordan are able to join him for a £1-per-minute sponsorship slot: “They just need to keep an eye on social media and there will soon be a link as to how and where they can join me.

“I want to get the message out there and bring people along with me on my endurance adventure. I want to swap stories with them, find out about them. Everyone has a story to tell, it’s going to be a beautiful journey.

“I am in better shape now than I have ever been before. I’ve been training like crazy,” says Jordan, who has been a coach and PT for around 15 years.

“It’s about getting your body and mind accustomed. You go through a lot of emotions.”

Psychologically gearing up for his epic journey, he adds: “When you do something like this you have to understand how to carry on when your body is telling you to stop. It is not just a physical fight it’s a mental one too.”

Having lived in many countries throughout the world, two years ago Jordan moved to Lancashire from Australia where he had been living, following a number of years in the Royal Navy.

He recalls: “After my time in the Royal Navy I expected a lot out of life. I liked adventure.

When I moved to Australia around six years ago, I kept leaning towards endurance sports and I decided to walk from Sydney to Brisbane in 19 days to set a world record.”

It was during this gruelling challenge that sparked a chain of events that would change Jordan’s life.

He contracted a viral infection that spread to his heart that subsequently turned into acute myocarditis: “I was very egotistical –I wanted to prove everyone was wrong,” recalls Jordan, who went on to train for another event: “I was with my coach and the next thing I knew, I woke up in an ambulance. My whole world was turned upside down. I had been a longdistance, endurance athlete and there I was with a heart that was unbelievably fragile.”

Turning away from endurance pursuits, Jordan turned to more intellectual interests, reading and the creative arts: “Looking back it was all part of my journey. Without the heart problem I would never have learnt so much – being still, forced me to learn about myself. I became a different man.”

With great relief Jordan was eventually ‘signed off’ by his Australian cardio team: “I was fine,” he says. “I was ready for another adventure!”

This time Jordan and a friend decided to stand-up paddle-board from Newcastle in Australia to Sydney – a 10-day epic journey that saw them boarding through white shark waters and taking turns to nap. The challenge was a success – however Jordan was later to learn that he had been unaware of the danger it had posed to his health.

Moving to the UK, two years ago, the cold weather sparked the return of myocarditis, which he learnt had never really gone away: “On reflection I should never have done the paddle board challenge,” says Jordan, who was treated by a specialist cardiology team at the renowned St George’s Hospital, London. “They are an amazing team! I have now got my life back on track.” n

In order to raise money for the British Heart Foundation Jordan’s latest 1700km ‘thisismyheart’ challenge will take place from 1st to 30th June when he arrives back in Brighton. To see how you can join him on his journey a link will appear on social media.

thisismyheart23

EPIC ADVENTURE

MICHELIN STAR JOY

Under the guidance of new executive chef Ollie Bridgwater, SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel near Windermere, has retained its coveted Michelin star.

To the delight of the team and Gilpin’s owners, Zoë and Barney Cunliffe, the announcement was made at the Michelin Ceremony Great Britain & Ireland 2023, which recently took place at Silverstone Circuit, bringing together top chefs from the length and breadth of the UK.

Ollie joined Gilpin from Heston Blumenthal’s The Fat Duck in Bray, Berkshire, possibly the most innovative and successful restaurant in the UK’s history, which next year is due to celebrate an astonishing quarter of a century of three Michelin stars.

Bringing new techniques, skills, creativity

and imagination honed in one of the most competitive, demanding and pressurised roles in the industry, Ollie’s appointment is a real coup for the Lake District’s burgeoning fine dining scene. Prior to joining the team at Gilpin, Ollie was with Heston for almost a decade as his sous chef at The Fat Duck, including working in Australia when they moved the entire restaurant to Melbourne for seven months.

Ollie says: “There’s a lot of history at Gilpin, it’s a very special place, so it’s a big responsibility as we reshape SOURCE in the coming months and years. I love making the most of special ingredients that aren’t around all the time, starting with one beautiful local ingredient and using great skills and techniques to make the best of it. Our menus at SOURCE focus on incredible local produce, seasonality, sustainability and precision – the detail really matters.”

Describing his joy at achieving the accolade, he said: “For any chef, earning a Michelin star is the ultimate recognition. It’s what we’re all striving to achieve throughout our careers,

Having worked as Heston Blumenthal’s sous chef at The Fat Duck for more than a decade, Ollie Bridgwater is now leading the team at SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel

OLLIE JOINED GILPIN FROM HESTON BLUMENTHAL’S THE FAT DUCK IN BRAY, BERKSHIRE, POSSIBLY THE MOST INNOVATIVE AND SUCCESSFUL RESTAURANT IN THE UK’S HISTORY

so for the team and I to have retained one star at SOURCE under the new name is just fantastic. A huge thanks to the SOURCE team both in the kitchen and out front, this gives us a real boost and reassures us that we’re on the right track. We now have an unbelievably strong foundation to build upon.”

Owner, Barney Cunliffe added: “Zoë and I are so delighted for Ollie, his team in SOURCE, and for Team Gilpin. Ollie is an incredible talent, and a perfect fit with our philosophy.

With intense technical skills from nearly a decade at The Fat Duck, he also, having visited the area for many years, has a huge love and respect for our Lake District produce. Ollie’s dishes are beautifully executed, as if they are as Mother Nature intended – on her best day, with each ingredient important and perfectly balanced with each other.

“We already had a vision to create the most delicious, sustainable and ethical dishes working alongside our incredible local farmers and producers. Within our nose to tail culinary philosophy, our soon to be opened butchery with in-house butcher, enables us to work with and buy direct from neighbouring farms that are practising the most ethical and sustainable husbandry and also producing the most delicious meat. Our in-house vertical farm meanwhile allows us to grow produce on site, with maximum, unique flavours, incredible

freshness and sustainability. Along with our other two restaurants Gilpin Spice and Knipe Grill at Gilpin Lake House, at SOURCE we will be re-examining every element of our offering with sustainability, ethical sourcing and nose to tail philosophy at its heart.

achievement with enormous pride,” concludes Barney who, with Zoë, joined his parents at Gilpin in 2001.

Gilpin Hotel & Lake House was originally built as a private house in 1901. John’s grandmother bought Gilpin Lodge in 1919, just four years after Beatrix Potter made nearby Hill Top her home, and she also bought Knipe Tarn, then a simple fishing lodge which is now Gilpin Lake House.

“It is all about the sourcing, which is why we are so delighted to call the restaurant SOURCE. I knowmum and dad (John and Chris Cunliffe) who we lost so recently, will be looking down on Ollie and the teams’

Sold out of the family as a private house in 1968, by the time Chris and John bought it back in 1987, Gilpin Lodge had been converted into a humble bed and breakfast. Having run hotels around the world, from New York to Cyprus, Jamaica and London, Chris and John decided to move back to the Lakes and begin the transformation of the house into a luxurious hotel.

Six generations of Cunliffes have been associated with the two estates – today Gilpin Hotel & Lake House is one of England’s finest modern country house hotels, a haven of calm and style, a year-round retreat with just 39 rooms and suites. It is renowned for extraordinary service, exquisite décor and stunning culinary experiences. n

thegilpin.co.uk

OUR MENUS AT SOURCE FOCUS ON INCREDIBLE LOCAL PRODUCE, SEASONALITY, SUSTAINABILITY AND PRECISION – THE DETAIL REALLY MATTERS

flavours unique – every flavour matters and if you close your eyes when eating you should be able to taste each one.”

Ensuring nothing is wasted is also important in the dishes at Northcote: “Our ethos is about how we use every part of an ingredient – for example with mutton we use the fillet to make a mousse, the belly to make bacon, we cure the fat and use the bones to make stock and then a consommé. It is a joy to

EXPERIENCE THE BEST

Northcote is now open again seven days a week. Gail Bailey meets Managing Director Craig Bancroft and Executive Chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen to find out more

Northcote is happy to announce they are back open seven days a week: “We have been incredibly busy since the pandemic,” explains Craig Bancroft: “No-one knew what life would be like post Covid and we have taken our time to train the team and slowly build confidence. Our clients, both personal and business, have been asking us to re-open seven days so that’s exactly what we’ve done. We feel we have the rhythm back into the hotel and it’s perfect!”

Holding their Michelin star for the 27th year, Executive Chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen is incredibly proud that this has been under her own name since 2018: “It gives me huge satisfaction that we offer such a unique food experience here at Northcote, and especially as we ensure this is accessible for all.”

Craig adds: “Lunch at Northcote is a lovely entry point to Michelin-star dining, and what is particularly special for us is that we now see the children and grandchildren of our customers coming here to dine.”

The menus at Northcote change regularly, determined by availability: “Food is at its absolute best when it’s in season and is

crucial to what we offer. We work closely with local suppliers to have ingredients at their finest point.”

Such offerings at the moment include asparagus and rhubarb which are starting to appear, along with light birds such as chicken and quail: “Wild garlic is in abundance at the moment – you can smell it before you see it on riverbanks and in woodlands,” Lisa adds.

be able to do, and to discover new techniques, flavours and processes,” Lisa says.

Craig and Lisa are both keen to pull from traditional dishes for the menu: “Flavours evoke nostalgic memories,” says Craig. “Be that a roast beef dinner or a butter pie.” Lisa adds: “We refine a dish to make it lighter, but we don’t spare anything on the taste. We eat with our eyes, but we need to pack a punch with the flavour!”

Food brings people together and the passion and enthusiasm for food, wine and service is evident from speaking to Craig and Lisa. Expert knowledge, creativity, science and craft all feed into Northcote, and the reason they retain their Michelin star status is clear for all to see. n

Lisa’s Gourmet Menu continually evolves dependent on seasonality: “We work on the flavour profile of a dish and spend time researching what works,” she explains. “We choose the main ingredients and make these

OUR CLIENTS, BOTH PERSONAL AND BUSINESS, HAVE BEEN ASKING US TO RE-OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK SO THAT’S EXACTLY WHAT WE’VE DONE

have been a good choice.

I stayed with the fish theme and thoroughly enjoyed cod with a smoked butter sauce and creamy mash. Gill and Miguel both chose a rather generous ox cheek, onion and mushroom suet pudding, the oozing unctuous Guinness gravy perfectly accompanied by salted, piping hot crinkle chips and devoured by two very happy diners.

COOKING UP A STORM

The Rum Fox is literally cooking up a storm – it’s certainly hit the ground running and has genuinely propelled itself to being one of the most popular restaurants in the Ribble Valley, writes

It’s rare Liz and I leave our seaside base at the weekend, but we were invited to The Rum Fox by our good friends Gill and Miguel and we simply had to see what all the fuss was about.

Much has already been mentioned about the refurbishment and décor and this is immediately obvious on arrival – it has a great atmosphere and I noticed a few familiar faces in the experienced team that chef patron Bob Geldeard has assembled.

What I really want to talk about is the food –it was really very good, the menu has a host of excellent options and was supplemented by a small seasonal specials board. I know Liz had taken a sneaky look beforehand and

had chosen a light smoked salmon starter with pickled cucumber and this was a lovely way to prepare for the main event. Her choice of one of the hand-crafted pies of chicken, ham hock and leek was literally packed full of the delicious filling and served with Bob’s

The desserts looked divine but apart from Miguel, who has a very sweet tooth, we had to decline – maybe on our next visit we’ll leave some room though having seen what was on offer I’d have been hard pressed to choose – all of them sounded truly delicious. The food, service and atmosphere were excellent and for me, achieved the perfect storm. As we left, I noticed just how many customers were re-booking for a future date including our friend Gill. If you are yet to try The Rum Fox I’d urge you to get it on your ‘to do’ list – sooner rather than later!

My top tip is to consider a weekday lunch –a full menu is available and it’s easier to get a table. n

I STAYED WITH THE FISH THEME AND THOROUGHLY ENJOYED COD WITH A SMOKED BUTTER SAUCE AND CREAMY MASH

signature crinkle cut chips and veggies. My pappardelle with Morecambe bay cockles, chosen from the specials, was an amazing dish. Looking back perhaps a side of bread and butter to mop up the sauce would also

Tedd Walmsley

TOP DOLLAR

All-American diner Billy Bobs has opened at Barton where kids (and adults) can enjoy genuine stateside food, ice cream and an exciting and innovative play area. Photography: Roger Moore

If you’ve driven along the A6 near Barton in the past couple of years, you’ll have passed the beaming face of an all-American boy named Billy Bob.

For a couple of years now, those signs have been at the entrance to just a portion of what the place is all about and nowadays, if you pull into the parking lot, you’ll be forgiven for wondering if you were just teleported to America.

Gary, who owns it with his wife Mandy, explains: “We have a Billy Bob’s near Skipton that we’d expanded several times

to accommodate visitors, to the point we felt it was big enough. But we weren’t out of new ideas, so we got to work on creating another Billy Bob’s here in Barton, Lancashire.

MY ULTIMATE FAVOURITE IS THE SODA FOUNTAIN. IT’S AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE PARLOUR SERVING UP OLD FASHIONED SARSAPARILLA, RASPBERRY LEMONADE AND ROOT BEER FLOATS

“We opened the play areas and started serving ice cream, pancakes and burgers whilst we cracked on building the diner in the background. Then Covid struck, followed by the credit crisis and being just a mom ‘n’ pop outfit, funding it all ourselves, we had a decision on our hands – cut some corners or slow the pace.

“We held firm and chose the latter, because we wanted to make it someplace that looks and feels top dollar and for us, that always means going into every detail. We used American architects to help us get that unmistakable Cape Cod look. My kids roll their eyes at me, but I get excited about these things! Even the kerbstone is made the American way with a special concrete roller that we imported to do the job.”

Mandy explains the tag line ‘Parlour –Diner – Play’: “Really there are three elements to a visit to Billy Bob’s – imaginative oldfashioned play that any kid (and an odd adult, wink, wink) rarely gets chance to enjoy. Rope

swings in a straw barn, racing slides and lovely wooden structures to clamber up and over. Then there’s our own homemade ice cream, in more than 30 exciting flavours on fancy cones, pancakes and sundaes and dropped into root beer and soda floats. And now we have the final piece of the jigsaw – an American diner, decked out with original signs and paraphernalia and even an American school bus inside, where families can dine aboard.”

Gary explains where the idea came from: “We wanted to make eating out together as a family both fun and tasty – just because kids are dining too, it doesn’t need to mean rubbish or bland food. When we opened our first store the first thing I did was bring in two local chefs who I knew well, and 12 years on they are still with us today, bringing back ideas from the States and just about everything is made from scratch in our kitchens!”

“Sure, we offer plenty of favourites like handmade burgers and hot dogs, but I personally love Kansas-style barbeque, which we cook in a smoker we brought in from Oklahoma, and I love a deep south flavour, like our Louisiana Boudin Balls.”

Mandy adds: “There are a couple of things I personally think are really special, one’s the Airstream trailer where we make coffee. It’s from the 1940’s, there’s very few left of this size and I’ve never seen another one since. And then my ultimate favourite is the soda fountain. In the 40’s and 50’s every American corner store had one and the guys who operated it were called ‘soda jerks’. It’s an integral part of the parlour serving up old fashioned sarsaparilla, raspberry lemonade and root beer floats.”

Really the whole notion around Billy Bob’s

is about creating a place where families and friends across the generations can have old fashioned fun times together. You don’t often see play equipment that sparks the imagination so it’s great to see kids clambering over the wooden monster truck with parents or

grandparents in tow and being pilot of the helicopter or having a second mate on the ship – it means a new adventure every time. And then of course there’s a chance to push themselves on the rope swings or fly the zip lines – all a great way to burn off energy from brunch, lunch or dinner. Then it’s back in for those legen-dairy parlour treats – ice creams, pancakes, sundaes and shakes!

So, what’s next? I asked Gary.

“Before the year is out, we’ll be unveiling a biggie! Just around the corner from the baseball-themed dining area, hidden from sight right now is a full-size Coke truck, a bit like the one that comes around at Christmas. Kids will be able sit up in the driver’s seat for a photo and then the whole family can dine inside.

“And then the very last piece of the jigsaw will be the adults-only dining area – because all the fun of Billy Bob’s isn’t just for kids you know!” n

Billy Bobs North Planks Farm

Garstang Road, Barton PR3 5AD

Calm Slate Farm

Bolton Abbey BD23 6EU

01756 711826

billybobsparlour.com

TRY THE ROPE SWINGS OR FLY THE ZIP LINES – ALL A GREAT WAY TO BURN OFF ENERGY FROM BRUNCH, LUNCH OR DINNER

IN THE WILD

Professional artist Michael Demain has travelled the globe to observe wildlife, but his favourite place is in the heart of the Lancashire countryside

Working as a delivery driver many years ago, Michael Demain’s life took a remarkable, unexpected turn when he arrived at the home of UK-renowned artist Steven Townsend: “When I saw one of his paintings on the wall I said, ‘That’s what I want to do’,” recalls Michael. “He suggested I paint something and he would give me an honest opinion.”

complete, he took it to show Steven: “He looked at it, smiled and said, ‘Yes, carry on’.”

That was more than three decades ago and over that time, Michael has sold his paintings to collectors all over the world.

take a part-time post in order to give him more opportunity to paint.

Having a particular interest in wildlife, painting birds and animals in their natural habitat was a progression that led Michael to turn professional just four years after he first began painting: “I love travelling the world to see animals in their natural surroundings. It gives me great joy as well as great subject matter.

Michael, who was in his early 30s, had never painted before. But he went away and embarked on his first work of art. Once

“After showing my work to Steve, I took his advice and carried on as I wanted to improve. I was getting home after work and painting every night,” says Michael, who held his first exhibition at Haworth Art Gallery in Accrington.

“I exhibited 30 paintings and sold more than half, it was really successful,” says Michael, who decided to quit his full-time job and

I LOVE TRAVELLING THE WORLD TO SEE ANIMALS IN THEIR NATURAL SURROUNDINGS. IT GIVES ME GREAT JOY AS WELL AS GREAT SUBJECT MATTER

“I take reference photographs and use several to make a painting. The light dictates the composition, so I think very carefully about it,” says Michael, who paints in oils or acrylic.

“Which ever medium I use depends on the subject – sometimes a certain subject lends itself to a specific medium.”

Michael’s love of wildlife has taken him and a group of friends throughout Europe and most recently to Spitsbergen in the High Arctic: “We have seen some totally unexpected things – it’s always wonderful!

“In Spitsbergen there was snow in July, it’s a really wild place. You have to carry a gun at all times – but we didn’t see any polar bears. We did see some walrus, which we hadn’t expected. We also saw pink-footed geese up there on their breeding grounds, in their natural habitat.”

While Michael is happy to travel the world, his favourite place is the Forest of Bowland and for many years, he has worked closely with the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) monitoring endangered species such as the hen harrier, peregrine falcon and merlin, on the Bowland Estate.

As part of the team, Michael helps find the nests of these endangered species and monitors them in order that they are not disturbed: “In a typical day we find where the birds are settling. At the beginning of March, we start locating pairs and as the season progresses, they start to lay their eggs. When I first started as seasonal warden 12 years ago, there were no hen harriers. Last year we had 11 successful nests on the estate,

so that’s really rewarding to see.”

Over the years Michael, who is represented by Carnes Fine Art, has sold many originals and limited edition prints, his work going to collectors in Alaska, Australia, New Zealand and New York: “I once did a painting of a goshawk chasing a partridge – the bird that featured was a falconer’s bird so the original photograph of the bird had jesses (ankle ties) on.

‘Just one request, can you put jesses on the bird?’ I couldn’t believe it! If I had painted the ties on originally, I couldn’t have removed them – it would have been impossible. However, it was relatively easy to add them, so he was happy!”

Michael, who is due to retire from his work with the RSPB later this year, will continue to paint: “I will carry on, but I am not a prolific artist. I feel less pressure now, so I paint what I want to paint – I don’t paint for the market. At times it’s a bit of a battle as it’s all about self-motivation. But I am very lucky to enjoy doing what I do.” n

“I thought I would have more chance selling the painting without the jesses on,” recalls Michael, who subsequently received a phone call from a collector in New York.

“He wanted to buy the painting but said,

michaeldemainwildlifeart.co.uk

THE HIGH ARCTIC IS A REALLY WILD PLACE. YOU HAVE TO CARRY A GUN AT ALL TIMES – BUT WE DIDN’T SEE ANY POLAR BEARS

ON SCREEN

Check out some of the hottest new releases coming to The Flower Bowl this month. For more information visit: theflowerbowl.uk

SPIDER MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE

Release Date: 2nd June

Directors: Joaquim Dos Santos, Kemp Powers and Justin K. Thompson

Starring: Shameik Moore, Hailee Steinfield, Jake Johnson and Issa Rae

Certificate:

Miles Morales returns for the next chapter of the Oscar-winning Spider-Verse saga. After reuniting with Gwen Stacy, Brooklyn’s friendly neighbourhood Spider-Man is catapulted across the Multiverse where he encounters a team of Spider-People charged with protecting its very heroes. But when the heroes clash on how best to handle the new threat, Miles finds himself pitted against the other Spiders and must redefine what it means to be a hero so he can save the people he loves the most. Producer Chris Miller has been saying what we can expect: “The development of new ground-breaking art techniques being done for the next Spider-Verse movie are already blowing me away. It’s going to make the first movie look quaint.” A third movie, Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse, has already been given a March 2024 release. n

INDIANA JONES AND THE DIAL OF DESTINY

Release Date: 30th June

Director: James Mangold

Starring: Harrison Ford, Mads Mikkelsen, Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Antonio Banderas

Certificate:

Harrison Ford dons his dusty fedora for one final time in the latest Indiana Jones blockbuster. Last time we saw our legendary hero he was exploring the jungles of South America, avoiding killer ants and hanging out with a leather jacket-clad Shia LaBeouf. Set in 1969, during the height of the Space Race and sees Indy taking on the fiendish Nazis, with Mads Mikkelsen playing Nazi scientist Voller, Phoebe Waller-Bridge joins the cast as Indiana’s goddaughter Helena. Ford said: “This is the final film in the series, and this is the last time I’ll play the character. I anticipate that it will be the last time that he appears in a film.” It might be the last, but indications suggest it could be one the finest films in the franchise to date. n

NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE: FLEABAG

Release Date: 15th June

Director: Vicky Jones

Certificate:

Written and performed by Phoebe Waller-Bridge (Fleabag, Killing Eve) and directed by Vicky Jones, Fleabag is a rip-roaring look at some sort of woman living her sort of life. Following a box-office record-breaking run in cinemas in 2019, the one-woman show returns to cinemas on the big screen this summer. Fleabag may seem oversexed, emotionally unfiltered and self-obsessed, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. With family and friendships under strain and a guinea pig café struggling to keep afloat, Fleabag suddenly finds herself with nothing to lose. Fleabag started its life on-stage at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2013, winning a Fringe First award that encourages new work. The hilarious, award-winning, one-woman show that inspired the BBC’s hit TV series  Fleabag, was captured live on stage from London’s West End in 2019. n

Ben Ark - Cityscapes Exhibition

Saturday 1st July 2023

Carnes Fine Art are proud to host Ben Ark’s first ever solo exhibition. AN EVENT NOT TO BE MISSED!

Ben will be at the gallery 11:00am - 4:00pm, please come and join us!

To register your interest in this prestigious event please contact Carnes Fine Art.

Ben says – “I’m delighted to be holding my first solo exhibition with Carnes Fine Art. It is a real honour to be sharing this moment with a fantastic gallery that has supported and championed my work since the start.

I’ve created a new collection of cityscapes that will showcase the region and my northern roots, including Liverpool waterfront and the industrial landscape of Manchester. I look forward to catching up with art lovers old and new.”

Carnes Fine Art, Cedar Farm, Back Lane, Mawdesley, Lancashire L40 3SY

Tower View, Deansgate, Manchester - Original Mixed Media Painting

George Parade, Liverpool - Original Mixed Media Painting

LEIGH LAMBERT

Taking inspiration from his own upbringing in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, Leigh’s artwork has a strong sense of nostalgia, which evokes precious memories of childhood that many of us can relate to.

The Crash Bang Wallop! collection takes us back to a bygone era when playing games on the street and finding new ways to entertain ourselves with ‘found’ items, was an everyday occurrence. We observe moments of joy, as the children create their own fun with a home-made go-cart and the inevitable mischief that was sure to follow once construction was complete and the brakes were off, (if indeed they were ever on!). Leigh’s work reminds us of a different time, of a cultural era that has long since passed and for many, acts as a vestige of wonderful, treasured memories.

Please call into the gallery on Berry Lane or contact the gallery for more details.

Original Paintings . Signed Limited Editions . Needleworks . Restoration . Art Framing . Shirt Framing . Canvas Stretching

78 Berry Lane, Longridge, Preston, PR3 3WH 01772 782006 www.longridgegallery.co.uk info@longridgegallery.co.uk

@longridgegall /Longridge-Gallery @longridgegallery

Crash

Bang

Wallop

Crash, Bang, Wallop!

MEASURED APPROACH…

the average price of properties coming to market had jumped by 1.8 per cent across the country.

While property prices have levelled somewhat and agents are working hard encouraging viewings, the market in some areas is showing considerable buoyancy.

Hannah Towers Valuer and Agency Partner with Armitstead Barnett says last year saw a significant steadying of the market caused by an unstable government, inflation, cost of living crisis and interest rises: “However, as we entered 2023, we saw people starting to regain some confidence albeit with a much more measured approach.

“Armitstead Barnett recently ran an open viewing event where we opened up 43 houses and this generated 120 viewings across the weekend. Offers and market appraisals followed showing that there is interest if buyers are given the opportunity to have the confidence to come forward and use their curiosity to consider moving. The turn out at the open event was strong across the market however, where there was limited interest on a couple of properties, it has spurred vendors on to realign their pricing to allow the marketing to sharpen up.”

She adds that in May Rightmove reported

“Gone are the days where the agent can sit back and let something sell. At Armitstead Barnett we have continued to be pro-active. For vendors it is time to make sure that your agent is well equipped in having a ‘roll your sleeves up’ approach to make the most of the market we have.”

“What I have noticed is at the other end of the market for project builds between £100,000 and £500,000 there has been a surge in interest to remodel and renovate using our transformyourhome.com service.

“This has been down to the increase in value of properties over the last three years creating equity that makes it easier to remodel and extend rather than move. Locally, we now have six builds booked in for next year using our transform your home service.

Joel Firth, of architects Firth Associates, has worked as a leading design architect across the North West for 20 years, building award-winning properties and designing over 400 buildings with a 99 per cent success rate with planning.

He says: “Over the last five years I have developed collaborative working methods with various consultant and production companies as a way to work on more varied project types and sizes.

“Over the last year, demand for larger new build bespoke properties has slowed, just until build prices level out, this means that between September and February we will have a few large domestic projects starting up again on site.

“In Lytham the market remains very strong with interesting properties coming to the market regularly and prices remaining high for the North West. With recent sales reaching over the £2m mark, investment interest in the area is increasing. For example, we are currently working on a pair of houses on Islay Road that will be for sale soon at just over £2.5m each.

“Along with the prices, the technology in new homes is also increasing, creating super insulated smart structures for a more environmentally-aware client base, improving the housing stock available and looking towards creating more energy efficient houses for generations to come.” n

Whether you want to upscale or downsize, renovate or re-build, now is a good time to take action

TECHNOLOGY IN NEW HOMES IS ALSO INCREASING, CREATING SUPER INSULATED SMART STRUCTURES

PRICES FROM £435,000

Luxury Development of 3, 4 & 5 Bedroom Homes

Lightfoot Lane, Fulwood, Preston

Offers Over: £900,000

A rare offering to the market, two super homes set in an attractive Lightfoot Lane location in a large plot extending to 0.37 acres OTA.

Entered via an impressive, gated driveway, the double-fronted properties are offered to the market as a whole, set within beautiful gardens and offer great scope and potential for alteration subject to gaining any necessary consents.

Hugh Barn Lane, New Longton, Preston

Offers Over: £700,000

Set in a highly sought-after location this well-presented detached family home boasts spacious living accommodation with four reception rooms and an orangery.

With four double bedrooms and a stunning kitchen with AGA, this home has plenty of outside space for parking at the front and to the rear for outdoor entertaining.

Clitheroe Road, Knowle Green

Offers in the Region: £2,750,000

An impressive, contemporary home with outstanding energy efficiency on the fringes of Longridge Fell.

With 756 sqm of well-thought out space, designed around a spectacular oak frame, plus 567 sqm outbuildings, this stunning six bedroom property is set in 7.4 acres of landscaped grounds and land on Longridge Fell and has the option of adding further land up to 44 acres to suit.

Hothersall Lane, Preston

Offers Over: £1,100,000

A beautifully presented stone-built home set in showstopping gardens and grounds extending to 4.83 acres along the desirable Hothersall Lane.

The spacious family accommodation includes three reception rooms and five bedrooms. The property has three fields and an area of woodland, garaging and outbuilding thus appealing to those with both agricultural or equestrian interests, or those who just wish to enjoy rural life.

Are you looking to let a property?

Our extensive experience, expertise and skills ensure our diverse range of clients are guaranteed access to a flexible and efficient lettings and management service. Our specialised lettings team has an in-depth knowledge of legal requirements enabling us to offer all aspects of lettings management.

Jessica Driscoll has recently joined Armitstead Barnett to take the helm of the lettings section of the Agency Department.

Jessica has many years’ experience in lettings management and offers a great depth of knowledge of legislation and can handle all things associated with the lettings section. Jessica leads our strong dedicated team, who strive for excellence, delivering high standards of service across all four offices, working on traditional values with a modern approach.

STUDIO LIFE

project managing the build. The site is located in greenbelt and the client requested a single-storey, eco-home which maximises natural light and views of the surrounding woodland. One of their key requirements was to live on-site during the construction within their existing home, therefore the new house was designed to accommodate this and the existing dwelling will be demolished once they have moved in.

concept design for a new build super-home in Pendle, we have designed a wow-factor extension to a client’s home in Wiswell and we have re-designed a luxury property in Harrogate overlooking The Stray.

In planning news, we have obtained approval for a contemporary black timber extension to a traditional stone dwelling in Edgeworth and are waiting for a decision on a new-build, holistic home in the West Lancashire greenbelt.

We are still on the look-out for driven individuals to join our team – so if you are looking for a new opportunity and want to work on bespoke designs within a supportive team environment, then get in touch.

Ready to start your own project journey? Visit our website and tell us what you want to achieve, we will then book your free consultation and take it from there. n

As we progress into the summer months, it’s that time of year when everyone spends more time in the garden and more time outdoors experiencing the outstanding open countryside we are lucky to have across Lancashire. Over the last few weeks we have recommenced our lunchtime walks, won some beautiful projects and we have a number of excited clients moving into their completed homes!

Work is nearing completion at our Woodland House project with our clients moving in soon. Readstone Construction are the main contractor and ZMA have been

Clients have now moved into our contemporary hillside house in Whalley Banks and also at our St Albans’ house transformation – both are looking forward to their first summer in their new homes. When your home has been designed specifically for you and your family and works with the existing site – it quite literally can change your life.

In design news, we have just presented a

For regular behind the scenes updates or on-site progress, visit our Instagram: @zaramoonarchitects

We transform sites, buildings, and lives. Unit 37, Mitton Road Business Park Mitton Road, Whalley BB7 9YE 01200 403840 enquiries@zaramoonarchitects.co.uk zaramoonarchitects.co.uk

Zara Moon Architects

Behind the scenes at ZMA, the design team are seeing delighted clients moving into their dream homes

Bursting with colour