LEGACY OF LAUGHTER BOBBY BALL TRIBUTE WONDERFUL WINCKLEY FRIENDSHIPS FORGED
GIVING WOMEN A VOICE AUTHOR BEVERLEY ADAMS
CULTURAL RENAISSANCE PRESTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Natuzzi
12 LEGACY OF LAUGHTER
On what would have been Bobby Ball’s 50th wedding anniversary, Alma Stewart talks to his widow Yvonne, who reflects on life with and without him. 70
WONDERFUL WINCKLEY
Steve Harrison goes behind the scenes in Winckley Square to discover a project that has seen the remarkable revival of this Georgian architectural masterpiece.
114
OUT ON THE OPEN ROAD
Cycling isn’t the niche sport it once was - a range of equipment and disciplines has now swelled participation levels. Ben Hall finds out more.
116
HISTORY BEHIND THE HOSTELRY
The Grade II listed Black Horse pub is celebrating winning a major award – just one of many accolades this historic hostelry has achieved.
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GIVING WOMEN A VOICE
With a passion for telling the stories of important women in history, author Beverley Adams gave up her job to become a full-time writer.
LIVE MAGAZINES
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2024 celebrating 17 years of beautiful living
PAD showroom exhibits the best in good quality, beautiful designed, well-crafted European furniture.
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.
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.
‘At pad we don’t sell we provide a stress free and friendly environment to buy’
Poulton Business Park, 4 Millennium Court, Furness Drive, Poulton-Le-Flyde, FY6 8JS 01253 893334 PADCL.CO.UK
Live Editor
Well summer has well and truly arrived – even though the sunshine has been somewhat scarce over the past couple of weeks. In this issue of Live Preston & Fylde we get out and about experiencing all that this incredible region has to offer. From the vibrant city centre to the calming coastline, there’s no better place to be!
Local writer and walking enthusiast, Steve Garrill, takes us out in the fresh air for a delightful walk around St Annes, pointing out some fascinating landmarks along the way, while cyclist Ben Hall discovers why the sport is now so popular – and competitive!
We put the spotlight on Preston to meet the people behind the transformation of Winckley Square, which two decades ago was an overgrown, unsightly eyesore. Today the Georgian square is a wonderful community hub where people live, work and play thanks to the Winckley Square Community Interest Company and the Friends of Winckley Square, who have breathed new life into the gardens and buildings.
Staying on the historic theme, we visit the Victorian hostelry that is the Black Horse, which once stood beside the Royal Hippodrome theatre, which has since been demolished. The inn, located in the heart of Preston, has retained many of its Victorian features and, fast forward to the present day, has also won numerous awards.
Author Beverley Adams takes us back in time with her books on memorable women in history. Her first book Edith Rigby: The Rebel Suffragette was published three years ago and since then she has written many more including Ada Lovelace: The World’s First Computer Programmer.
We learn how the city has undergone a cultural renaissance with the revival of the Preston Symphony Orchestra, which staged its first concert last month. The orchestra has forged many valuable partnerships and its success looks set to continue with further concerts planned.
There’s some fabulous fashion and fittingly for summer, Scott William Schiavone takes us through the development of swimwear over the centuries. From the modest, woollen swimming attire popularised at the start of the 20th century to the present-day swimsuits made from high-performance fabrics.
We hope you enjoy this issue of Live Preston & Fylde!
A LEGACY OF LAUGHTER
This year, legendary comic and Fylde coast resident Bobby Ball would have celebrated his 80th birthday and his 50th wedding anniversary. Here, Alma Stewart talks to his widow Yvonne, who reflects on life with and without him
We sit in the iconic Clifton Arms Hotel on Lytham’s front, a site that holds many memories of the late Bobby Ball. Bob was one half of comedy duo, Cannon and Ball who passed away from the effects of Covid in 2020.
I remember meeting Bob here back in 2018 where he backed the NHS’ 70th birthday
campaign in video form. Also here was the Bobby Ball Tribute Lunch in the same year for the Variety Children’s Charity, organised by then trustee Deni Middleton of the Variety Lancashire Committee.
The first fundraiser since Bob’s passing was organised by their friends Debbie and Mark Baxter, which raised funds towards his statue that now stands proud in Lowther Gardens.
The Bobby Ball Fundraiser and Variety Show weekend followed in 2021, in aid of the Bobby Ball Foundation, a charity that supports good causes in Bob’s name.
Yvonne and Bob’s story starts in 1970 when Yvonne was working at the famous Fiesta Club in Stockton-on-Tees. This self-confessed party girl worked as a Fiesta Fawn, a take on the popular Bunny Girls at the time. One night, Yvonne got a phone call from a pal at another club, telling her about a party.
HE WAS REALLY MY TYPE – THE DARK HAIR AND MOUSTACHE –BUT WHEN HE STOOD UP, I DECIDED HE WASN’T FOR ME AS I AM 5FT 10 AND HE WAS 5FT 4!
Yvonne recalls: “When I walked into this party, I spotted Bob sitting on an armchair next to a crate of Newcastle Brown Ale. He was really my type – the dark hair and
Photography: Mark McNeill
moustache – but when he stood up, I decided he wasn’t for me – I am 5ft 10 and he was 5ft 4! However, we sat and chatted all night, until 8.30 in the morning and he phoned me every day after that.”
At the tender age of 18, Yvonne soon fell for the 25-year-old Bobby and the pair eventually lived with Bobby’s sister, sleeping in a single bed balanced on bricks: “Some people have said I married Bob for his money, but they don’t realise we had very little in the early days. Thanks to an insurance policy, it was me that bought our first house. Life was not glamorous at all,” says Yvonne. But that was about to change.
I MISS HOLDING HANDS AND LAUGHING WITH HIM, WE WERE INSEPARABLE FOR 50 YEARS SO IT IS A HUGE ADJUSTMENT
Cannon and Ball went on to become one of the top acts of their time, commanding 20 million viewers on their Saturday night TV show. They enjoyed years of success playing at theatres all over the UK, Royal Variety Performances and even made a film, the Boys in Blue: “We couldn’t go anywhere without being recognised,” explains Yvonne. “Bob was so well known we just got used to having little privacy, even abroad.”
In 2005, Bobby was approached to appear in I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here!
This appearance triggered a role in Sky TV’s successful series Mount Pleasant, followed by Lee Mack’s Not Going Out and then to more acting work including parts in Last of the Summer Wine, Benidorm and the TV movie the Fattest Man in Britain with Timothy Spall.
Yvonne says: “Bob loved working in TV and made some amazing friends particularly with Lee Mack and also the cast of Mount Pleasant. In fact, the whole cast and crew of Mount Pleasant were like one big family and Sally Lindsay, Sue Vincent and Dan Ryan all recently attended a celebration in honour of Bob’s 80th birthday – a black-tie event held in February.”
Yvonne and Bobby have lived on the Fylde for 28 years: “Bob absolutely loved Lytham. We used to live on a remote farm in Yorkshire, but we were both so social that we felt too isolated. Cannon and Ball had a three-month summer season in Blackpool so we rented a house up in Bispham.
“A friend was selling his house on Clifton Drive in St Annes and it was love at first sight. It was a beautiful house but eventually just
became too big. We moved to a smaller version of it on Beach Road before heading to Lytham. It’s a really friendly town and living pretty central, I have everything I need close by. Bob was well known here and the support I have received since he died has been fantastic –I am very lucky to be surrounded by some amazing friends with my close friend Deni even moving in with me for the first few months after Bob died. The whole community has been so lovely.”
Some of those dear friends have gone on to become trustees of the Bobby Ball Foundation: “Bob and I were patrons of Blue Skies Hospitals Fund and the Lowther Theatre and I still wanted to help. Then Peter Taylor, of Cuffe and Taylor, approached me about an idea for a charity which could donate to both charitable trusts and also continue to support other worthy causes going forward. And so in 2021, we launched the charity with a star-studded show and the first black-tie event – the Bobby Ball Ball at the Winter Gardens on the same weekend. We were delighted to raise £57,500 for each of our patron charities plus some money towards the planned statue. The Foundation has since gone on to raise money for local causes,” Yvonne explains.
Of course, Bobby was no stranger to fundraising himself. He supported a number of causes including creating the Let the Sunshine In Variety Show at the Lowther Theatre in 2017. This was put on to raise money for the patient garden at Lytham
St Annes’ Clifton Hospital. Bob had often joked that he wanted a statue of himself when he died. And that is exactly what he got.
The unveiling of the Bobby Ball statue, created by talented sculptor Ben TwistonDavies, went ahead in August 2022. The nine-foot bronze Bobby stands proud opposite the Lowther Pavilion Theatre.
A public crowdfunding campaign, coupled with a generous donation from local businessman Tom Gallagher, raised the funds needed and time and resources were generously donated by John Camilleri, Fylde Borough Council, Greg Anderton, Pete Foy and others.
The reveal was attended by a host of
celebrities, dignitaries, fans, family and friends. “On special occasions I will go and leave flowers for him at his statue, but I also go as often as I can – it’s nice to be able to see a version of him still. The family were also granted a memorial rose garden at Lytham Hall, kindly offered by Peter Anthony and Paul Lomax who manage the estate. My grandson Christian bought a bench so we can also sit and enjoy the flowers and think about Bob and my other grandson Sam purchased the rose bushes, so it’s a real family affair.”
There are so many fond memories that Yvonne shares which also include some famous names including George Michael, Adam Ant, Eric Clapton and even Prince Phillip: “Tommy and Bob were invited to meet the royals and Bob was really nervous. He kept stopping for a pint on the way there to settle his nerves. They were told the protocol of calling Prince Phillip ‘Your Majesty’ if they hadn’t met him before. Tommy managed this, but Bob, through a combination of nerves and beer, said: ‘Hiya cock, how are you?’ Prince Phillip returned the favour at a later Royal Variety Performance – when working down the performers’ line, he said to Bob: ‘Hiya cock, how are you?’ Bob thought that was absolutely fantastic!”
BOB WAS WELL KNOWN HERE AND THE SUPPORT I HAVE RECEIVED SINCE HE DIED HAS BEEN FANTASTIC – I AM VERY LUCKY TO BE SURROUNDED BY SOME AMAZING FRIENDS
Though there are plenty of plans in the pipeline, the next Bobby Ball Foundation event will be held in the Lowther Gardens in August when guests are invited to bring a picnic and drinks.
Yvonne concludes: “The trustees and I absolutely love raising money for the Foundation, especially if it helps worthy charities – Bob would be very proud. We all still miss him. I miss holding hands and laughing with him, we were inseparable for 50 years, so it is a huge adjustment. At first, I didn’t leave the house, but eventually you get stronger. People often ask me about grief – you have just got to get on with life and it’s up to each individual how they deal with it. I am very lucky. I have years of fantastic memories plus our wonderful daughter Joanne and family. Everyone has a story about Bob – how fortunate am I that I still hear them wherever I go.” n
Photography: Mark McNeill
Photography: Dave Nelson
LONG, LAZY DAYS OF SUMMER...
GARDEN ROOM from £45,000 Designed, handcrafted and built by Secret Drawer, the oak timber frame for this garden room was handcrafted in their Skipton workshop. They designed and made the windows and shutters, doors, bead board panelling, upholstered bench seating with tapered legs and spade feet and the unique ‘Otto’ table. Flooring, lighting, insulation and heating was also installed. secret-drawer.co.uk
CELEBRATING A FANTASTIC 20 YEARS IN BUSINESS
Bathrooms to inspire...
Bathrooms to inspire...
Bathrooms to inspire...
Bathrooms to inspire...
Bathrooms to inspire...
...for over 16 years we have been creating everything you need for a luxurious & practical bathroom or kitchen.
SHOWROOM OPEN FOR APPOINTMENTS ONLY, PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL TO ARRANGE. We are adhering to social distancing guidelines.
SHOWROOM OPEN FOR APPOINTMENTS ONLY, PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL TO ARRANGE. We are adhering to social distancing guidelines.
• SUPPLY • INSTALL ...for over 16 years we have been creating everything you need for a luxurious & practical bathroom or kitchen.
inspired in 3000 sq ft showroom The Original Bathroom Company
Be inspired in our 3000 sq ft showroom The Original Bathroom Company
SHOWROOM OPEN FOR APPOINTMENTS ONLY, PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL TO ARRANGE. We are adhering to social distancing guidelines.
SHOWROOM OPEN FOR APPOINTMENTS ONLY, PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL TO ARRANGE. We are adhering to social distancing guidelines.
SUPPLY INSTALL ...for over 16 years we have been creating everything you need for a luxurious & practical bathroom or kitchen.
SUPPLY INSTALL ...for over 16 years we have been creating everything you need for a luxurious & practical bathroom or kitchen.
Original Bathroom Company 01772 611622 www.theoriginalbathroomcompany.co.uk Liverpool Road, Longton, Preston PR4 5NB • Next to Booths Supermarket EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE
Be inspired in our 3000 sq ft showroom The Original Bathroom Company tel: 01772 611622 www.theoriginalbathroomcompany.co.uk 84 Liverpool Road, Longton, Preston PR4 5NB • Next to Booths Supermarket EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE
SHOWROOM OPEN FOR APPOINTMENTS ONLY, PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL TO ARRANGE. We are adhering to social distancing guidelines.
84 Liverpool Road, Longton, Preston PR4 5NB • Next to Booths Supermarket EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE DESIGN • SUPPLY
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.
tel: 01772 611622 www.theoriginalbathroomcompany.co.uk 84 Liverpool Road, Longton, Preston PR4 5NB • Next to Booths Supermarket
Please call 01772 611622 or email showroom@originalbathroomcompany.co.uk www.theoriginalbathroomcompany.co.uk 84 Liverpool Road, Longton, Preston PR4 5NB • Next to Booths Supermarket DESIGN • SUPPLY • INSTALL ...for 20 years we have been creating everything you need for a luxurious & practical bathroom.
EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE
LUTRON WIRE-FREE SHADING SYSTEMS
Like a dimmer for the sun. Whisper-quiet privacy, UV protection, and a choice between hundreds of premium textiles.
Unique innovative technology ensures 3-5 year battery life, for hassle-free maintenance.
Adjust shades from the comfort of your home with a handheld or wall-mounted control, or from anywhere in the world with the Lutron App. Eliminate glare, increase privacy, or create the perfect atmosphere with just one touch.
RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SOLUTIONS THAT PUT YOU IN CONTROL.
Bernard Dickinson, 13 Beech Drive, Fulwood, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 3NB
Whatever the weather, a Croft Pod is the perfect addition to your garden. Who says the sun needs to shine on your alfresco celebrations, though it would be nice! Photography: Kirsten Platt
In the heart of the British countryside, where rolling hills meet the horizon and the air carries a hint of blooming flora, there’s an enchanting way to enhance your outdoor living experience – the Croft Pod. Imagine a versatile, beautifully-designed outdoor room that opens up endless possibilities for dining, entertaining and simply savouring the serenity of your garden. Welcome to a world where every meal becomes an occasion and every gathering is infused with the charm of nature, no matter what the weather decides to do.
A SHELTER FROM THE STORM
A Croft Pod is not just an addition to your home, it’s a lifestyle transformation. These
elegantly crafted structures blend seamlessly into the landscape, offering a sanctuary that’s both stylish and functional. With their sleek design and high-quality materials, Croft Pods provide a stunning yet cozy retreat in your garden.
Envision yourself stepping into this inviting space. The gentle murmur of the garden, the scent of fresh blooms, and the soft glow of twilight set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. Inside, the Croft Pod is a haven of comfort, furnished with plush seating, ambient lighting and perhaps a rustic dining table that invites conversation and connection. This is where the magic of outdoor dining truly comes to life.
LET THE ENCHANTMENT OF OUTDOOR LIVING ELEVATE YOUR LIFESTYLE IN THE MOST DELIGHTFUL WAY
HERE COMES THE SUN
One of the greatest joys of a Croft Pod is its ability to offer an outdoor experience that’s impervious to the whims of British weather. Whether it’s a sunny, summer afternoon or a crisp autumn evening, your Croft Pod
stands ready to host. Rain or shine, you can dine al fresco without a care in the world. The sturdy construction and thoughtful design ensure that you and your guests are protected from the elements, making spontaneous dinner parties or meticulously planned celebrations a breeze.
A CELEBRATION TO REMEMBER
Here we are using the Croft Pod to celebrate 150 years of Croft in our pod in the grounds of Holden Clough – with three generations together. Joined by the fabulous team from The Reading Room at Holden Clough, the celebration features an exquisite Italianinspired fresh antipasti menu and an array of fine wines and curated, speciality drinks to complement the delightful spread. It is worth noting that The Reading Room can supply such culinary delights for outside events and gatherings – simply get in touch with Nick and Emma to plan your perfect menu. We also extend a heartfelt thank you to The Phoenix Company for supplying their beautiful Indian hand-printed tablecloths in a very Croft-esque shade of blue. With the Croft Pod as our elegant setting, we are able to gather and honour our family’s rich history, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.
ELEVATE EVERY MEAL
Dining in a Croft Pod transforms meals into memorable events. Breakfast takes on a new dimension as you sip your coffee while watching the sunrise. Lunch becomes a leisurely affair, with the midday sun filtering through the pod’s windows. And dinner, well, dinner becomes a celebration. Imagine a candlelit feast with the stars twinkling above, or a festive barbecue with friends and family gathered around, sharing stories and laughter. For those who love to entertain, a Croft Pod is a game-changer. It offers a unique venue that’s both intimate and expansive, allowing you to host everything from elegant dinner parties to casual get-togethers. Decorate it according to the season – think fairy lights and lanterns in the summer, or cozy throws and candles in the winter. The versatility of the Croft Pod means you can create the perfect ambience for any occasion.
A PERSONAL RETREAT
Beyond dining and entertaining, a Croft Pod serves as your personal retreat. It’s a place to escape the hustle and bustle, to unwind and reconnect with nature. Use it as a reading nook, a yoga studio, or even a home office with a view that inspires creativity. The possibilities are as endless as your imagination.
In today’s fast-paced world, having a space where you can slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of life is invaluable. A Croft Pod offers just that – a tranquil haven that enhances your lifestyle and enriches your time at home.
Incorporating a Croft Pod into your garden is more than just an upgrade; it’s an invitation to live more fully, to embrace the outdoors, and to create lasting memories with those you love. It’s about making every meal a moment to cherish, every gathering an event to remember and every day a chance to savour the beauty around you. So, step into the world of the Croft Pod and let the enchantment of outdoor living elevate your lifestyle in the most delightful way. n
croftconservatories.co.uk
holdenclough.com/food thephoenixcompany.org
WINDOWS | DOORS | CONSERVATORIES | ORANGERIES | GARDEN PODS
“Beach House Art was born from our shared passion for the coast, the beauty of nature and stunning design,” says Sarah, Marketing Director and co-founder of Beach House Art, which began when creative friends Sarah, Brian and Sam noticed a gap in the wall art market for uplifting and inspiring art prints.
“We’re dedicated to creating high-quality, inspirational and affordable wall art, all while providing exceptional customer service and fast delivery. We aim to be your onestop shop for beautiful art prints, whether you’re decorating your home or business or searching for the perfect gift,” adds Sarah.
Crafted by Beach House Art’s in-house artists, these artworks are the perfect way to refresh your summer décor, infusing your space with a modern coastal feel and a tranquil atmosphere reminiscent of the ocean breeze.
COASTAL SCENES & QUIRKY PRINTS
Dive into summer with beautiful, coastal-inspired artwork for the home and quirky modern prints for the kitchen
From calming sea blues and vibrant watercolours to textural acrylics and rich oils, talented artists from Beach House Art, use their UK studio to capture their love for their coastal homes in Cornwall and the Isle of Wight.
Beach House Art’s commitment to accessibility ensures everyone can now enjoy a piece of art that captures a coastal vibe or a quirky aspect of life to bring a touch of style to your interior.
CRAFTED BY IN-HOUSE ARTISTS, THESE PRINTS ARE THE PERFECT WAY TO REFRESH YOUR SUMMER DÉCOR
More than just artwork, these prints encapsulate the serenity of the ocean, the vibrancy of beach life and the thrill of ocean exploration. Whether you’re a lifelong ocean enthusiast, a frequent beachcomber, or simply someone who dreams of seaside escapes – and who doesn’t – these prints are designed to bring a calming piece of the coast to your everyday life.
Whether you find yourself drawn to classic coastal scenes or whimsical beachscapes, there’s a piece to whisk you away and fill your home with holiday vibes.
As well as coastal and sailing scenes, this summer’s collection also features a delightful series of colourful sardine tin paintings, perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to your kitchen décor!
beachhouseart.co.uk
BEAUTIFUL FABRICS TO COMPLETE YOUR HOME
Do your curtains, cushions, blinds and bedding make your home sing or sigh? New move or happy home, now could be the perfect time for a fresh view. Kate Bowyer meets Mandy Marshall, head designer at independent interior fabric specialists Marshalls of Preston. Photography: Michael Porter
Stepping into Marshalls’ light, spacious showroom on Church Street, I treat my fingers to the pleasure of stroking satin fabric, luxurious rich velvet brocade flipping through a book of enticing swatches.
“Fabrics that you are welcome to touch,” nods Mandy Marshall of family-owned Marshalls, who have been turning dreams into reality and houses into homes for over 50 years.
“Going beyond colour and pattern, paint and wallpaper, they add a tactile feel with the pile, finish, depth and shine – the way
they catch the light, or radiate warmth.”
Having worked in the family firm, founded by her father in 1966, for over 30 years, it’s not surprising Mandy has an instinctive feel for fabric: “Growing up in the business, I saw how much dad put into building it up,” she explains. “Helping in the school holidays was good for pocket money too!”
I’D BEEN DOING WINDOW DISPLAYS AND SHOW HOUSES, AND REALISED HOW MUCH I LOVED HOME INTERIORS
With a natural artistic eye, Mandy gained a degree in design, forging a career in the fashion industry in London. But, unable to resist helping out in the business on home visits, the lure of home and hands-on fabrics became too strong to resist.
“I’d been doing window displays and show houses, and realised how much I loved home interiors,” she recalls. “I think my business training helped, I started saying, ‘Why don’t we try this?’, we would, and it would work. Gradually I realised my place was in Marshalls, taking the expertise and passion my dad instilled in the business and getting creative beyond the curtains we were then known for.”
WE’VE BUILT UP PARTNERSHIPS WITH GREAT FABRIC CREATORS, DESIGNERS AND PRODUCERS, SO WE CAN SPECIALISE IN TRADITIONAL AND HARD-TO-GET TEXTILES
That was in the early 1990s. Now, thanks to Mandy, her team, and her father (who refuses to take a well-earned retirement), Marshalls are the go-to North West specialists for home soft furnishings. Curtains, nets, blinds, bedding, upholstery, accessories, kitchen fabrics and cushions – all carefully sourced, beautifully designed and seamlessly made and fitted.
It’s the personal touch that puts Marshalls pelmet-high above anonymous stores that ship in the same mass-produced fabric, whether you’re fitting a cottage in Cornwall or a granary in Glasgow. With a dedicated team of 10 including in-house seamstresses and fitters, you can choose off-the-peg with ease, alterations, or something personally bespoke – there’s the same care, attention and friendliness every time.
“We’ve built up partnerships with great fabric creators, designers and producers, so we can specialise in traditional and hard-to-get textiles,” says Mandy. “We work closely with local interior designers, and source locally wherever possible, including fabric, poles, tiebacks, bespoke bedding and headboards. We found the best-performing curtain linings, from thermal to blackout, for example, just down the M61 in Manchester!”
With over 14,000 fabrics and a sample ‘loan library’, including new sustainable fabrics and designer names like Prestigious, Fibré Naturel, Clarke & Clarke, Ashley Wilde and Style Library, customers will find plenty of inspiration in the shop. Mandy and her trusty tape measure, samples, ideas and expertise will also visit your home, project or premises across the North West.
Keeping travel impact down also ensures personal service, attention to detail and pleasing timescales from the first idea to the finished fitting, from barn to bungalow or terrace to townhouse. The team at Marshalls are renowned for fitting bespoke spans and heights where others don’t, there are also pre-made styles that are perfect budget options, or for keeping pace when kids’ tastes turn into teens.
“The fabrics that background our daily life are so much more than window-dressing,” concludes Mandy. “You should continue to love the designs, colours and fabrics in your home as much as the moment you said ‘that’s the one!’. At Marshalls, we love making that happen.” n
Marshalls
29 Church Street, Preston PR1 3BQ 01772 257974
07800 539476
marshallspreston.com
Marshalls_furnishings
SUMMER TABLESCAPES
This high summer capsule collection for the home is crafted with care from natural materials
Nkuku’s fresh and quietly elegant collection inspires the art of living well within the home. Thoughtfully designed and curated, the collection evokes a sense of freshness, light and calm, infusing summer suppers with a touch of simple, understated style. The effortless blend of natural textures and finishes, paired with the handcrafted elegance of clean cream ceramics featuring fluted details and hand-blown recycled glassware adorned with bursts of fresh sea tones in organic shapes, creates simple yet sophisticated tablescapes perfect for relaxed entertaining.
Enhance the setting with textured, handpatterned terracotta planters, adding rustic charm to outdoor seating spaces. Elevate your table setting by layering with table mats and coasters woven from water hyacinth, adding a touch of rustic charm.
TAJA GLASS
Within the collection is recycled Taja glassware that brings a soft palette of fresh aqua tones in gentle blues and greens to instantly freshen up a table setting. Coloured glass fragments are introduced to the clear
molten glass, creating a free-flowing design and unique finish that is also highly durable as the pattern is contained within the glass itself. The stylish, organic design, with its sturdy form and gentle uneven rim, heightens the individual beauty of each glass.
ARUVI TABLEWARE
Pressed and then hand-finished with gently scalloped edges that give it a uniquely tactile charm, the Aruvi tableware collection adds
a refined and elegant touch to table settings. Standing apart from other stoneware pieces thanks to its beautifully fluted form, the creamy, white reactive glaze develops a very subtle and delicate patina in the kiln that makes each piece pleasingly distinct.
LAM TABLE MATS
These simple yet stylish Lam table mats and coasters have an organic shape and use the variations in colour of the dried water hyacinth to create a simple block pattern and border. Water hyacinth is a river weed in Vietnam, where these mats are made, so the local weavers are making use of an unwelcome species in the ecosystem.
Amy McSorley, Product Development Director at nkuku, says of the new collection: “Summer is a wonderfully social season, filled with alfresco lunches and leisurely suppers shared with family and friends. Introducing a high summer capsule collection enables our customers to enhance their existing tableware collections, offering a range of stylish options for creating memorable tablescapes at home.” n
NEW YORK SIX-SEATER DINING SET
HiGold’s New York six-seater dining set follows an architectural style, blending with all kinds of modern construction. With the special open arrangement of the teak side panels, it looks dynamic and feels comfortable as it allows more room for extra cushions. The design is bold, generous and robust.
CARIBBEAN CORNER SOFA SET
The HiGold Caribbean corner sofa set is characterised by its simple combination of two mini-loungers and one coffee table. The set features seating with textile panels making it comfortable and relaxing. Featuring HiGold’s signature FSC certified, natural teak wood, this set represents a modern style of outdoor living for any generation.
POLO CORNER SET
HiGold’s Polo corner sofa set is a modular set that can be assembled into different configurations. Boasting thick upholstery and cushions, the Polo set is comfortable and cosy for those late nights in the garden. The natural wooden elements assembled at the end of the seating serve as side tables.
LE JARDIN CO FIRE PITS
Le Jardin Co also stock contemporary, eyecatching firepits. The coffee table firepit is perfect for those wanting to enjoy an alfresco drink in the garden – before the summer has even got underway! Similarly,
STYLISH & CONTEMPORARY…
With the arrival of spring, now’s the time to get your outside space in order so you can entertain and enjoy all that the season has to offer
Le Jardin Co is the North West’s exclusive stockist of the luxury outdoor collection by HiGold.
HiGold is one of the leading premium outdoor furniture manufacturers on the market –designed to perfection and using fabrics trusted by luxury yacht-makers for deck furnishings. The solution-dyed acrylic fibre permeates to the very core of the material, creating a rich and fade-resistant colour.
Le Jardin Co is able to combine best-in-class products at competitive prices, even creating an in-house care guide to ensure that customers can enjoy their outdoor furniture for years to come.
NEW YORK TWO-SEATER SOFA SET
The terrific-value HiGold New York two-seater sofa set, which makes good use of natural teak, conveys a strong dynamic feeling. The sofa set can be integrated into different settings and brings a fresh look to your outdoor space that’s ultimately elegant, creating a welcoming outdoor environment for friends and family.
the Cube and Scoop fire pits in concrete finish provide a fantastic solution to enable you to spend more time in your garden on cool summer evenings.
HOT TUBS AND SPAS
In partnership with Le Jardin Co, Ribble Valley Spas is the North-West’s premium hot tub and swim spa supplier and installer. Based in Lancashire, they are a family business with more than 20 years’ experience working with one of the biggest importers in the UK. n
GROWING THE TEAM
Bannister Hall Landscaping Supplies and Plant Nurseries in Higher Walton welcomes two new key members to the horticultural team – Neil Dudley and Matthew Carr
Neil Dudley joins Bannister Hall Landscaping Supplies and Plant Nurseries as their multi-site Nursery Production Manager, bringing over 25 years of horticultural growing experience and a wealth of logistical knowledge to support the existing horticulturalist team across Bannister Hall’s three North West-based nursery sites. Neil has long cultivated an impressive industry reputation for being one of the region’s leading expert professional growers, having been responsible for managing over 70 staff across 12 nursery sites in peak seasonal periods. In his former role, Neil oversaw the contract growing of over five million bedding plants, alpines, and bulbs, to meet the exacting quality
control requirements and strict deadlines expected by the UK’s major supermarket and garden centre chains.
Neil says: “It is an understatement to say that I am passionate about plants. I have had a lifelong fascination with growing plants to the highest possible quality. Joining Bannister Hall Nurseries was a great opportunity to once again be able to grow, source and supply beautiful trees, hedges, shrubs, topiary, perennials and exotic specimens to a variety of clients including local authorities, property developers, professional landscapers and the general public.” Indeed, over the years, Neil has managed a plethora of impressive planting schemes across the UK, even transporting the largest ever oak tree across England to Liverpool, at the time, the European Capital of Culture in 2008.
Commenting on Neil’s appointment, CEO of Bannister Hall Landscaping Supplies and Nurseries, Jon Carlyle-Hollywood says: “We headhunted Neil for his vast wealth of horticultural knowledge, indisputable talent and enthusiastic passion for growing and sourcing the highest quality plants and trees.
We are thrilled he has accepted our offer to join the Bannister Hall horticultural team, whereby his expertise and experience will bolster our commitment to supplying our customers with high quality plants at the most competitive prices.”
Bannister Hall Landscaping Supplies and Plant Nurseries also welcomes Matthew Carr in the dual role of plant sales and landscaping materials sales based at Bannister Hall’s landscaping store and nursery at Potter Lane, Higher Walton. In his former role of over six years, Matthew specialised in the purchasing and retailing of garden stoneware, ornaments and water features.
I WILL BE BRINGING IN A WHOLE NEW RANGE OF BEAUTIFUL POTS, STONEWARE AND WATER FEATURES TO COMPLEMENT BANNISTER HALL’S STUNNING COLLECTIONS OF PORCELAIN AND NATURAL STONE PAVING
Matthew says: “Whilst plants have always been a keen interest of mine, over the years I have developed a passion for those items that dress, complement and finish every beautiful garden design and landscaping project. In my new role at Bannister Hall, I will be bringing in a whole new range of beautiful pots, stoneware and water features to complement Bannister Hall’s latest stunning collections of porcelain and natural stone paving.”
Commenting on Matthew’s appointment, Rachel Innes, Commercial Development Head adds: “Matthew undoubtably has a great eye for product quality and creative flair. We were so impressed with his product knowledge, creative displays and his past sales achievements, that we felt he would be the perfect addition to our team, as we continue to expand our sites and product ranges for both trade and retail consumers.” n
Bannister Hall
Potter Lane, Higher Walton Preston PR5 4EN 01772 877087
bannisterhall.com
OPEN MONDAY TO FRIDAY
FREE ON-SITE PARKING
SIT BACK AND WATCH THE BUTTERFLIES
July is the month of high summer when the garden comes alive with the sound of bees buzzing, gathering pollen from the plants that you have lovingly nurtured and are now in full flower
Although one of the quietest months from the point of view of garden birds, July is one of the best months for insects, especially butterflies. The average garden, with a few good nectar plants, could have 15 or more species visiting this month. In addition to nectar-rich plants such as buddleia, verbena bonariensis and wild marjoram, butterflies love nettles!
While it may be tempting to remove your flowering nettle patch, try to leave some as they provide one of the most important foods for caterpillars of butterflies such as the red admiral. The Big Butterfly Count organised by Butterfly Conservation (butterflycount.org) is running from 12th July to 4th August this year and is a lovely way to spend time watching butterflies and helping to collect data for conservation.
If you have buddleia in your garden then spotting butterflies will be easy. Otherwise
known as the ‘butterfly bush’, buddleia is one of the best nectar shrubs you can plant for butterflies. Beautifully scented and with purple, pink, yellow or white flowers, it
BUDDLEIA IS ONE OF THE BEST NECTAR SHRUBS YOU CAN PLANT FOR BUTTERFLIES
attracts a wide variety of butterfly species, including red admiral, peacock and small tortoiseshell. The buddleja Davidii, buddleja x Weyeriana and buddleja Globosa varieties are the best options. Although a valuable resource for pollinators, care should be taken to stop buddleia from self-seeding
and spreading beyond the garden, where it can ‘elbow out’ native plants. This can be avoided by deadheading buddleia immediately after flowering. This not only improves the appearance but also extends the period of flowering and helps prevent seedlings spreading.
Apart from dead-heading buddleia, other top jobs for gardeners this month include:
• Deadhead bedding plants and repeatflowering perennials, to ensure continuous flowering. It keeps plants looking attractive and encourages more blooms, whether in beds and borders, containers or hanging baskets.
• Using recycled water from baths, sinks and showers can be a vital resource. Use within 24 hours to prevent bacterial growth and apply to ornamental plants rather than edibles.
• Pick your courgettes before they turn into marrows and plant out leeks and brassicas for a winter supply – plus keep an eye out for potato and tomato blight. n
JULY GARDENING TIPS:
July is the month when all the hard work pays off. Herbs and flowers are fragrant, and the soil rich with your homemade compost. After the rush of May and June growth, you can relax a little and enjoy the fruits of your labour.
Garden Organic
Now is the best time to cut and tie stems of herbs – including oregano, marjoram, thyme and lavender –for use in winter. Cut stems in the morning on a dry day, tie them into small bundles of individual herbs and hang up in a cool, dry room. When well dried, the leaves should be transferred to tightly closing tins, or kilner-type jars.
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.”
To view his gallery visit: www.endarts.co.uk
‘not in my gaze (but in my head)’ – 20x20cm Box Canvas
‘Pieces of my heart’ – 40x40cm Box Canvas ‘Fragments of memory’ – 40x40cm Box Canvas
MELLOW YELLOW
This beautiful English fabric will brighten and enhance interiors capturing the warmth of the summer sun
Embrace the warmth of summer with Tori Murphy by introducing cheerful pops of mellow yellow that will transform your interior space. With sun-drenched hues across her premium homeware collections, from lively chevron prints to charming harbour stripes, Tori infuses a welcome dose of vitamin C throughout her made-to-measure curtains and blinds, versatile soft furnishings and fabrics available by the metre, all effortlessly enhancing interiors.
Delightful warmth and brightness creates the perfect setting, with a wide range of yellow shades ideal for rooms capturing the morning sun or afternoon rays. Woven and made in England since 2012, Tori’s luxurious homeware collection infuses your interior with the most vibrant colour of summer.
TORI’S LUXURIOUS HOMEWARE COLLECTION INFUSES YOUR INTERIOR WITH THE MOST VIBRANT COLOUR OF SUMMER
Established in 2012 by founder and textile designer, Tori Murphy, the company’s contemporary approach to pattern embodies the essence of relaxed English style and tradition.
Dedicated to creating thoughtful, timeless and sustainable products for the family home, Tori Murphy’s collection comprises 15 categories, including kitchen textiles and made-to-measure curtains and blinds, backed by award-winning service. Designed with integrity and rooted in English heritage and craftsmanship, Tori Murphy has earned a reputation as the go-to brand for English homewares and fabrics. n
torimurphy.com
Get a HUG from your Local Authority
The Government funded Home Upgrade Grant (HUG) is available for home owners and landlords* to install energy savings measures worth up to £38,000, for free, with no requirement to pay anything back.
Properties without mains gas central heating with an EPC of D, E, F or G qualify.
If your annual household income is less than £36,000 or, if someone within the household is in receipt of a means tested benefit you can apply.
You can also qualify if your house is in an eligible postcode area. No evidence of income would be required. The full list of postcodes is on our website.
For more information or to apply online visit our website or call the number below to speak with a friendly advisor. *Landlords are required to pay a contribution If your
COFFEE WITH AN ARCHITECT
Ready to brew up some exciting new plans? If you have a vision to extend your home, have land to build on, a renovation or remodel but don’t know where to start, BCAE Architects have got the perfect blend for you: Coffee with an architect. Sarah Ulyatt finds out more
From July, every last Friday of the month at BCAE Architects, Co-Directors Ben Craven and Arron El-Ammar will open their doors for a relaxed, free, no-strings-attached chat about your project ideas. Whether you have a plot of land for a beautiful new build, a building to convert, or a home that needs a facelift, they will help build a clearer picture of your dream project and outline everything that’s involved.
The 30 to 60 minute bookable ‘Coffee with an architect’ slots will give you plenty of time to explore your ideas and get expert insights from Ben and Arron, without any commitment – the perfect way to kickstart your project with confidence and creativity.
With offices in Euxton near Chorley and Manchester, BCAE Architects offer bespoke designs for innovative contemporary house extensions, unique eco homes, rural barn conversions, home adaptations and larger scale residential schemes and commercial properties across the North West. n
Want to know more? For inspiration, have a look at their previous impressive projects at: bcae-architects.co.uk
BCAE Architects
Unit 17, Guest House Farm Runshaw Lane Euxton PR7 6HD 01772 230538 07540 591628
info@bcae-architects.co.uk bcae-architects.co.uk
bcae_architects
Your invitation:
Coffee with an architect
When:
The last Friday of every month – 10am to 4pm
Where:
BCAE Architects, Guest House Farm, Euxton PR7 6HD FREE advice, coffee and biscuits!
Book your free slot here: https://calendly.com/bcae-architects-info.
Please ensure you book in advance as they will only be able to see those who have registered. 01772 230538
LOW-MAINTENANCE STARS
Adding plants can bring life and vibrancy to your outdoor space. However, choosing the right ones is essential if you want minimal maintenance
Low-maintenance plants that thrive in various conditions can help you achieve a stunning garden with minimal effort.
Here are a few suggestions:
PERENNIALS
Bring beauty and fragrance to your garden with low-maintenance lavender. Lavender is a must-have for any gardener, known for its gorgeous purple blooms and calming scent. This versatile plant thrives in our climate and requires minimal care, making it perfect for busy lifestyles. Whether you plant it in containers or in the ground, lavender adds a touch of elegance and attracts beneficial pollinators to your garden.
Sedum is a tough perennial that tolerates a wide range of conditions and brings late-summer blooms that bees love.
Geraniums, with their vibrant colours and long lifespan, are a diverse group of perennials that are sure to add cheer to your garden. Rudbeckia is a summer pleaser and a sun-loving perennial, which thrives in average soil and can even withstand drought conditions.
SUCCULENTS
Succulents are the answer to your lowmaintenance, high-impact dreams. These hardy plants come in a stunning array of shapes, sizes, and colours and can be planted outdoors or even kept inside. Succulents are incredibly drought-tolerant thanks to
their water-storing leaves. This makes them perfect for the UK’s unpredictable weather and ideal for busy gardeners who don’t have time for frequent watering.
ALPINES
For those that want a low maintenance garden or container, alpine plants are a dream. These mountain natives are adapted to survive on neglect. Their thick, fleshy leaves store water, so they tolerate dry periods with ease, eliminating the need for frequent watering. Alpine soils are naturally poor in nutrients, so these plants require minimal feeding. Their compact size means little pruning is needed, and with slow and steady growth, alpines won’t overwhelm your garden.
ORNAMENTAL GRASSES
Ornamental grasses are a fantastic option for low-maintenance gardens. They thrive in a variety of conditions, tolerating a range of soil types and light levels, making them ideal for the temperamental UK climate. Ornamental grasses bring textural interest, sound and movement to your garden. With their wispy foliage like the feathery plumes of pampas grass or the compact form of Japanese forest grass, they add year-round beauty.
WILDFLOWERS
Wildflower gardens are a stunning and low-effort way to bring life to your outdoor space. After all, wildflowers have thrived for centuries without human intervention –just look at any meadow or woodland!
Seeds are the easiest way to create your wildflower paradise. There’s a wide variety of mixes, with options ranging from charming cottage garden to vibrant nectar-rich blends that attract butterflies and bees.
SHRUBS
Spruce up your garden with the lowmaintenance magic of shrubs! These versatile
plants are the backbone of any landscape, offering year-round beauty without demanding constant attention. Evergreen varieties are a lifesaver, providing colour and structure throughout the seasons. For an instant impact with minimal care, we recommend Choisya or Skimmia Japonica.
Euonymus is a compact shrub with deep green leaves add a touch of greenery throughout the year. And for an unforgettable fragrance, Daphne can’t be beaten. This UK favourite offers beautiful, glossy leaves and fills your garden with a delightful aroma.
Julian Palphramand, Head of Plants at British Garden Centres says: “We understand that not everyone has green fingers, so at your local store you will find an extensive selection of low-maintenance plants. They offer beauty and variety for all types of gardens, allowing you to create a stunning outdoor space without sacrificing your free time. So, relax, unwind, and let your garden flourish with minimal effort!” n
britishgardencentres.com
COMES SUMMER …
£85 Available as prescription glasses for the same price. iolla.com
IOLLA sunglasses
BATHING BEAUTIES
This issue, fashion historian, Scott William Schiavone, takes us through the development of swimming attire through the years, just in time for the summer holidays
The history of the bathing suit is a fascinating journey through changing societal norms, technological advancements and evolving fashion trends. It spans centuries, reflecting broader cultural shifts and advancements in textile technology.
At the dawn of the 20th century, swimwear was very conservative. Women’s swimsuits were typically made of heavy fabrics like wool, designed more to cover the body and preserve the wearer’s modesty than ease of moving in the water. These cumbersome garments were normally knee-length dresses, bloomers and stockings. Annette Kellerman, an Australian swimmer and actress, popularised the one-piece swimsuit for women, which was considered scandalous at the time. Her arrest for wearing a form-fitting, one-piece suit in 1907 in Boston marked a pivotal moment in swimwear history.
The 1910s and 1920s marked the beginning of significant changes. As leisure time increased and beach culture gained popularity, swimsuits began to evolve into more practical and comfortable garments. During this period,
materials like jersey and rayon replaced heavier fabrics, allowing for greater movement and comfort. The two-piece swimsuit for women, which, while still conservative by today’s standards, began to expose the midriff, was introduced in the 1930s. The development of Lastex, a fabric that combined rubber with textile fibres, revolutionised swimwear by providing a more form-fitting and elastic material. This era also marked the rise of swimwear as a fashion statement, influenced by Hollywood stars like Esther Williams, who played Annette Kellerman in the film Million Dollar Mermaid (1952).
AN AUSTRALIAN SWIMMER AND ACTRESS, POPULARISED THE ONE-PIECE SWIMSUIT FOR WOMEN, WHICH WAS CONSIDERED SCANDALOUS AT THE TIME
World War II had a significant impact on fashion, including swimwear. Due to fabric rationing, swimsuits became smaller and more economical in design. The bikini, introduced by French designer Louis Réard in 1946, revolutionised swimwear. Initially controversial, it gradually gained acceptance and became a symbol of liberation and modernity. The 1950s and 1960s saw the bikini become more mainstream, coinciding with the sexual revolution and Youthquake of the 1960s and changing attitudes toward body image and modesty. Advances in textile technology introduced new materials such as nylon and spandex, enhancing fit, comfort and durability. The influence of icons like Brigitte Bardot and Marilyn Monroe helped popularise the bikini and other bold swimwear styles.
In the 1970s and 1980s swimwear became more specialised, catering for different activities such as competitive swimming and casual beachwear. Brands like Speedo and Jantzen led the way in functional swimwear for athletes. Swimwear styles for the beach however, reflected the broader fashionable trends of the times, including bold colours and patterns.
THE DEVELOPMENT OF LASTEX, A FABRIC THAT COMBINED RUBBER WITH TEXTILE FIBRES, REVOLUTIONISED SWIMWEAR
In recent decades, swimwear has continued to evolve, with innovations in materials such as Lycra and spandex enhancing fit and comfort. Designers have embraced diverse
styles, from the modest burkini to high-fashion swimwear. Today, bathing suits reflect a wide range of personal expressions, body types and cultural preferences, symbolising both fashion and freedom.
The journey of the bathing suit from heavy, modest garments to today’s diverse array of styles, mirrors broader societal changes and technological advancements, highlighting the interplay between fashion, culture and functionality. n
Image Credits
@scottschiavonefashioncurator
Scott William Schiavone is a fashion historian and Curator of Decorative Art at The Harris Museum and Art Gallery in Preston. Scott, who has worked with fashion and textile collections in museums across the UK, has his own YouTube channel, Fashion &… and is an accredited lecturer for The Arts Society.
Bottom left: Annette Kellerman (1887-1975), Australian professional swimmer, vaudeville and film star in her famous custom swimsuit. Image in the Public Doman.
Bottom right: Woman swimming in a Burkini, licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license.
ELMIS PRO-COLLAGEN SKIN
PROTECTION FLUID SPF50+ £55
Protect your skin from UVA and UVB damage that can cause collagen breakdown with this lightweight broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen.
The Spa Hotel
Ribby Hall Village Ribby Road Wrea Green PR4 2PR 01772 671111 ribbyhall.co.uk
RADIANT & REVITALISED
ESPA ISOTONIC COOLING BODY HYDRATOR £43
A lightweight gel-cream to cool, quench and refresh the body that is perfect after a day in the sun, the soothing jelly formula is nutrient-rich yet non-greasy, leaving your skin feeling fresh, revived and revitalised.
With sun protection, these rich, nourishing products will leave your skin feeling smooth and energised
MEDIK8 DAILY RADIANCE VITAMIN C™ £59
Energise your skin with this hydrating vitamin C and SPF 30 day cream for a brighter and more even complexion, whilst keeping future ageing and sun damage at bay.
Melt Twitter Lane Clitheroe BB7 3LQ 01200 443377 themeltco.com
SALTEE ACTIVE
SUN LOTION
SPF 30 £35
This includes MelinOil which stimulates your skin’s natural sun defences and prevents photo ageing to achieve glowing skin, also with ultra-high UVA/ UVB protection. saltee.co.uk
SOL DE JANEIRO RADIANCE SPF50 BODY LOTION £40
Spa Space Gilpin Hotel and Lake House Crook Road Windermere 015394 88818 gilpin.co.uk
COOLA CLASSIC SUNSCREEN
SPRAY SPF30 PINA COLADA £25
A water-resistant, 70%+ organic sunscreen with broad spectrum UVA/ UVB protection, this antioxidant-rich, moisturising formula uses plant-based Olesome technology, which is reeffriendly. cultbeauty.co.uk
OMOROVICZA GOLD
SUGAR SCRUB £65
Fair-trade cane sugar refines the skin by sloughing off dead skin cells to promote a youthful appearance and a unique blend of floral oils gives this scrub a dreamy scent. omorovicza.co.uk
Nourishing and beautifully scented, with SPF 50 protection, this body lotion moisturises and evens skin tone, enhancing and illuminating your look. spacenk.com
TAN-LUXE THE FACE MINI 10ML £15
These travel-sized illuminating tan drops will transform your favourite moisturiser, serum or oil into a self-tanner. tan-luxe.com
While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, all prices and stockists are subject to change.
GET YOUR YOUTHFUL LOOKS BACK & DEFY AGE
Regaining your youthful confidence by achieving younger looking skin at any age is possible thanks to the latest advancements in non-invasive technology that provide exceptional results –diminishing the signs of ageing and correcting any skin concerns you might have.
State-of-the-art, reassuringly safe and comfortable, non-invasive treatments are longer lasting than intrusive procedures like fillers, injectables and surgery. They are effective and naturally flattering at any age – so where can I sign up?
Not understanding much about aesthetic procedures, many of us may just lump everything under the assumption of
Appreciated for bringing her one-on-one personal, understanding touch to EMA Skin Aesthetics since 2016, Emma Pearce talks Kate Bowyer through the life-enhancing possibilities of gentle, regenerative skin treatments
‘painful’, ‘plastic’ or ‘fake-looking’, but Emma Pearce says it’s high time to understand the difference and appreciate the many benefits of non-invasive regenerative skin treatments.
Emma’s career of over 20 years in the industry, brings a wealth of experience, expertise, empathy and most importantly Emma understands her clients’ individual concerns, expectations and through this she consistently delivers exceptional results ensuring all clients are happy.
“A lot of people say they’d feel too intimidated to walk into a big clinic so the first thing they appreciate is that EMA is just me,” she explains. “One-to-one personal service in a reassuring, calm environment, which is perfect for anyone who’s been hesitating over that first step. Come and talk, find out all the details, decide on exactly what’s right for you, then prepare to be delighted!”
Emma specialises in a wide range of treatments and therapies which stimulate the skin’s regeneration processes for the ultimate in natural-looking skin plumping, firming, tightening and smoothing of wrinkles.
PLASMA PEN
Clients are thrilled by results from the biggest advancement in non-invasive treatments – the Plasma Pen – a non-surgical solution to lift, tighten and shrink excess skin. Triggering your own cellular regeneration, the Plasma Pen naturally and effectively combats wrinkles, sagging, loss of collagen
and elasticity, encouraging firmer, softer skin to shine through.
Treatable areas include eye bags and lids, lip lines, crows’ feet, smile lines, marionette lines, sagging jowls, drooping neck, frown and forehead lines.
The other leading treatments are the electromagnetic non-surgical face lift, fractional radio frequency and ultrasound therapy.
The results are people saying, ‘You’re looking so well’ not ‘What have you had done?’
“That’s exactly it,” says Emma. “Where people used to resort to fillers or plastic surgery, now better, safer, totally natural results are achieved simply, comfortably and non-
invasively. Results can last up to three years, rather than just three months for some fillers and surgical procedures.”
HAVE I DISCOVERED THESE TREATMENTS TOO LATE?
“You can’t, that’s the natural beauty of it!” reassures Emma. “Treatments like the Plasma Pen, ultrasound therapy, Morpheus 8, electromagnetic face lift, laser and mesotherapy treatments are ideal and effective from early adult years right up to your late 80s+. It’s never too late to start. I’ve had first timers in their 70s and 80s delighted with the results – not a hint of plastic, unnatural or stretched, just gentle turning back the clock to a more radiant, younger you that is still totally you – with added ease, enjoyment and confidence!”
SPECIAL OFFERS!
PLASMA PEN: £185 off each area. Areas start from £250.
NON-SURGICAL FACELIFT:
Last chance offer of 25% off a course of four treatments.
NEWEST LEADING TECHNOLOGY –
EMA MICRONEEDLING M8:
Introductory one-time only offer –30% off face or combined face and neck treatment.
(Not to be missed! Saving you up to £225 per area.)
Offers end 6th September 2024
WHAT CLIENTS SAY…
“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)
“I’m 76 years old and thought I was too old to receive any treatment for anti-ageing that would actually make a difference. Emma proved me wrong as promised. I am delighted with the results and feel much more confident. It proves you’re never too old.” (Jacqui)
“I’ve received both Plasma Pen and ultrasound from Emma and I can only say I wish I had done it earlier. My concern was the lower face as I was so self-conscious and avoided all mirrors. I now have a new lease of life due to my impressive results. Thank-you Emma.” (Margaret)
To unlock a more youthful you, inside and out, call Emma now on 01772 821600 for your complimentary consultation. n
AFTER images show results after a few weeks, peak results will be seen after 3 months.
EMA Skin Aesthetics Ltd
Upstairs at Toni & Guy 86 Fishergate, Preston PR1 2NJ 01772 821600
Our feet form the basis of our whole skeletal structure which means they are at much higher risk of damage or injury than any other body part. Keeping them in tip top condition should be a priority for everyone! Photography: Michael Porter
We’ve all had occasions when we’ve had pain or discomfort in our feet and know how debilitating it can be when this prevents us from walking, running or simply carrying out essential daily activities. Good foot health plays a critical role in in our overall health and well-being, but often goes unnoticed until problems arise. Understanding the importance of good foot health and how biomechanics and the use of custommade orthotics can help address various conditions, is essential for maintaining mobility and preventing future issues.
David Nicholls is the founder and lead practitioner of That Foot Shop, a highly skilled podiatrist with over 20 years’ experience with specialisms in biomechanics, sports injuries and orthotics. As a member of the Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC), procedures are performed in a safe, caring environment by fully trained podiatrists who provide a
professional, friendly service and expert care and advice so you can rest assured, knowing that you are in safe hands.
David explains: “Common conditions such as corns, bunions, cracked heels, fungal
infections and ingrown toenails, often indicate the feet are being put under stress and need to be managed with a visit to a reputable podiatrist. However, routine treatment may not solve the underlying cause of the condition, this is where the biomechanics of how you walk can identify a structural imbalance which may be the problem.”
INFORMATION COLLECTED BY WALKING OVER THE FOOT-SCAN CAN INSTANTLY BE OBSERVED USING SOPHISTICATED COMPUTER SOFTWARE HELPING TO IDENTIFY ANY WEAKNESS OR IMBALANCE
Even simple conditions such as those detailed above, if left untreated can have a detrimental effect on our quality of life. Ignoring the first signs of discomfort can further complicate existing conditions or lead to compensatory movements and postural imbalances, resulting in pain in other parts of the body such as the knees, hips and lower back.
That Foot Shop utilises the ‘Gait and Motion Technologies Footscan’ system combined with years of experience to assess, diagnose and effectively treat problems
associated with the musculoskeletal system using custom-made orthotics made to fit into shoes. The orthotics are designed from the dynamic data from the foot-scan which, auto-corrects any imbalances between the left and right foot, easing strain on muscles and joints by improving weight distribution.
The value of biomechanical assessment is now recognised as far reaching and is widely used in areas such as development gait analysis in children, rehabilitation after life-changing injury, sports performance and the prediction of biomechanical injury in new recruits to the armed services.
A comprehensive initial assessment at That Foot Shop includes postural analysis, gait observations, range of movement of joints and the use of the foot-scan technology to assess static foot posture, balance and dynamic movement of the foot during gait.
THAT
FOOT SHOP UTILISES THE ‘GAIT AND MOTION TECHNOLOGIES FOOTSCAN’ SYSTEM COMBINED WITH YEARS OF EXPERIENCE TO ASSESS, DIAGNOSE AND EFFECTIVELY TREAT PROBLEMS
“It’s a common misconception that biomechanic assessment is something that’s only utilised by athletes and sportspeople and this is definitely not the case. While it is widely used in this field, it is also used to help correct issues such as flat feet, high arches, pronation, plantar fasciitis and with elderly clients who may experience problems with their balance. For me in practice, it’s the critical first step to a successful diagnosis by providing a detailed analysis of an individual’s gait and weight distribution,” adds David.
Information collected by walking over the foot-scan can instantly be observed using sophisticated computer software helping to identify any weakness or imbalance allowing David to target specific areas for treatment, improving function and reducing pain.
Using the information gathered from the biomechanical assessment and dynamic scan, David can make recommendations for treatment and if required start the process of creating a custom-built orthotic. The foot-scan is one of the only technologies which processes the dynamic data taken and autocorrects imbalances at the design stage of an orthotic. Orthotics once designed are sent through to a 3D printing facility in Belgium using the very latest in 3D printing technology. Manufacture of orthotics in
this fashion enables them to be repeatable if other sets are required even years later!
It’s not unusual for David to see clients suffering from back, hip or knee pain who have initially sought help through other channels such as physiotherapy with limited success. This pain can often be a symptom of a different problem and in cases such as these, it’s always a good idea to start with the feet and work upwards, not only does this avoid weeks and possibly months of pain or discomfort and potential longterm damage, but it can also be more cost effective to quickly identify or rule out other possible causes. n
To arrange an appointment at one of our clinics, or simply to find out more about how this service might help you, please contact David.
South Ribble Tennis Centre
Cuerden Way
Bamber Bridge PR5 6BJ 07809 362734 07751 203702
152 Bury Old Road
Whitefield Greater Manchester M45 6AT 0161 766 3078
davinicholls@gmail.com thatfootshop.com
Aquablation Therapy
New pioneering robotic prostate treatment available for private patients
Fulwood Hall Hospital in Preston, part of Ramsay Health Care, is delighted to announce that men suffering from a benign enlarged prostate (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia) will be able to receive robotic Aquablation therapy.
Many men within the UK have lower urinary tract symptoms associated with BPH, which can lead to surgical intervention for this condition.. Historically, the procedures available for the treatment of this condition, whilst providing effective symptom relief, may have recognised complications such as incontinence, or sexual dysfunction.
Aquablation therapy is an advanced, minimally invasive treatment for BPH that uses imaging, robotics, and a heat-free waterjet to provide long-lasting relief with low rates of complications. Benefits can include:
• Improvement in the BPH symptom score
• Improved flow of urine
• This technology may reduce the risk of incontinence and loss of sexual function when compared to other techniques.
Mr Ahsanul Haq, Consultant Urological and Robotic Surgeon at Fulwood Hall Hospital and one of the first consultants to treat patients for BPH using ‘PROCEPT BioRobotics’ technology said:
“For patients with enlarged prostates, aquablation therapy is a game-changer. The utilisation of heat-free water power results in improved urinary symptoms and whilst we cannot eliminate all complications, the risk of urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction is significantly reduced.”
Fiona Thornhill, Hospital Director at Fulwood Hall Hospital said:
“We are really pleased at Fulwood Hall, to be able to offer patients this option, using advanced technology and robotic assisted Aquablation treatment.. As stated in our corporate motto, ‘People Caring for People’, we place the utmost priority on helping our local community with its healthcare needs.”
To enquire about our Aquablation therapy treatment, please contact our team on 01772 341 756 or scan the QR code for more information.
fulwoodhallhospital.co.uk
ONLY THE BEST OF HEALTH
Fylde Private GP, now known as Fylde Private Medical, situated on St Annes Square, has recently extended its practice and services across a further two floors. Now there is even more reason to choose its wide range of treatments
Awarm welcome awaits in the sleek and calming entrance of Fylde Private Medical housed within the beautiful period building, once home to the Royal Bank of Scotland, having recently celebrated its second anniversary in the heart of St Annes.
This local private medical service puts the patient first. The aim is to deliver outstanding GP-led care to patients and to build a lasting relationship with them to understand all their healthcare and well-being needs.
Complementing the existing services, the centre is about to offer a host of extended treatments. These include:
• dermatology
• physiotherapy
• performance psychiatry
• ultrasound
• counselling
• aesthetics
• in-house pathology lab with the ability to conduct 324 different tests
• weight control treatments –including Alevere medical weight loss
Also joining the team is a consultant neurologist, cardiologist and ENT specialist. Operations Director, Noel Tracey, is proud to extend the range of services, particularly within the tastefully renovated upper floors: “Our patients suggested we need to extend our range of treatments and services and so we analysed our referral data and
identified what we could bring in-house,” Noel explained. “We can now offer a one stop shop for our patients with both primary and some secondary care.”
Fylde Private Medical aims to provide everything that traditional care can sometimes lose: the same GP, a team that knows and welcomes the patients and enough time to be listened to and feel valued. And it is better value for money than people think. Noel continued: “We recently treated a self-employed patient who had been signed off for six weeks as he needed a steroid injection. Unfortunately, he was looking at an eight week wait in which time he was unable to work and therefore had little income. Within 24 hours, we were able to treat him and get him back to work.
WE CAN NOW OFFER A ONE STOP SHOP FOR OUR PATIENTS WITH BOTH PRIMARY AND SOME SECONDARY CARE
The centre is bringing back the concept of the traditional family GP to offer compassionate, flexible and caring services for patients and their families with access to modern, convenient, safe, comfortable, clean within the state-of-the-art facility.
It is the speed and ease of which health issue can be dealt with that is impressive. At an initial appointment, bloods can be taken and analysed and scans taken in-house, the results of which are available quickly, ensuring and concerns have been investigated
all conveniently within one day and in one building. Noel continued: “We can provide the services our patients want without lengthy waiting lists and with the peace of mind that any health worries are dealt with quickly – it’s not just what we do, it’s the whole experience.”
Here, patients can also benefit from minor surgery procedures onsite that often are not a priority on the NHS. Noel described the relief a particular patient experienced following a removal of a facial growth: “This person had been very conscious for many years living with this particular problem. Using a plasma pen – a safe and non-evasive treatment – to remove the growth quickly and easily allowing the patient to enjoy the freedom from self-consciousness and allowing a new lease of life.”
WE CAN PROVIDE THE SERVICES OUR PATIENTS WANT WITHOUT LENGTHY WAITING LISTS AND WITH THE PEACE OF MIND THAT ANY HEALTH WORRIES ARE DEALT WITH QUICKLY
Reflecting modern lifestyles, Fylde Private Medical offers flexibility in choice of how and when patients can be seen. These can be face to face (in-clinic), or by phone or video consultations. They also offer home visits (depending on catchment area) to patients who are unable to attend the surgery.
With great online reviews and a Care Quality Commission (CQC) rating of ‘good’, why not invest in your health and contact the friendly team? Noel added: “It is an exciting time for the practice with so much more to offer and a growing team of highly qualified professionals. We all deserve good health and you will find all the support you need right here, six days a week. Please visit our website to discover the right treatment for you –we look forward to welcoming you.” n
START YOUR SMILE JOURNEY START YOUR SMILE JOURNEY
constant need for admiration and a lack of empathy. Here are some signs that may indicate narcissistic traits:
• Grandiose sense of self-importance leads them to exaggerate achievements and talents, expect to be recognised as superior without commensurate achievements.
• They are often absorbed with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty or ideal love. They often invest in the past, present or future to impress at the start of a relationship.
• They believe they are special and unique and can only be understood by, or should associate with, other special or high-status people.
• They require excessive admiration and are constantly seeking praise and attention.
MIND MATTERS
• They have a sense of entitlement and unreasonable expectations of especially favourable treatment or automatic compliance with their expectations.
There are a number of complex subjects I find challenging, if not impossible, to write about in just a single page article. Sexual or physical abuse, PTSD and narcissism are just a few.
So why write about narcissism?
Therapeutic coach Lynn Scholes delves into the extremely complex, but surprisingly common, issue of narcissism To find out
Over the last few years, the term has been bandied around with little or no thought to its true meaning. People, often men, are referred to as ‘narcissistic’ by those who have only the faintest idea of what it actually
means. It leads to people questioning if they are in a narcissistic relationship.
Narcissism comes on a ‘spectrum’ and people can demonstrate narcissistic tendencies, but that is very different from being a full-blown narcissist. Being in a narcissistic relationship can be life-changing for the partner, leading to them finding it impossible to ever trust their own judgement, or potential partners again.
Narcissistic partners are insidious, exhibiting one set of behaviours at the start of a relationship, to gain trust and create vulnerability. Once they are in the driving seat, their behaviour changes and the blame is all yours.
It’s important to distinguish between someone having narcissistic traits and having Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), which is a clinical diagnosis made by a mental health professional. If you are concerned about your partner’s behaviour, consider consulting a therapist for guidance. We can help you understand the dynamics of your relationship and provide support in addressing any unhealthy patterns.
Identifying whether your partner is a narcissist involves recognising specific patterns of behaviour. NPD is characterised by a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, a
• They take advantage of others to achieve their own ends and set up relationships to exploit their partner.
• Their lack of empathy means they are unwilling/unable to recognise or identify with the feelings and needs of others.
• They are often envious of others or believe that others are envious of them.
• They display arrogant behaviour or attitudes because of the belief that they are superior.
When discussing true narcissism, put simply, there is only one person who will ever matter in the mind of a narcissist and that is themselves! Narcissists typically prioritise their own needs and desires above others, showing a lack of genuine concern or empathy for those around them. Their relationships are often marked by self-centredness and exploitation.
I will follow this up with an article on what to look out for at the start of a relationship that should ring alarm bells. n
Lynn Scholes is a writer, therapeutic coach, trainer and speaker working with individuals and companies.
Sole and Beauty are looking for a new podiatrist and beauty therapist to join our diverse, multidisciplinary team. Especially in the field of biomechanics and sports injury. We are a very busy clinic that provides essential health care to a vast population of Preston and surrounding areas. Contact Ruby on soleandbeauty-333@outlook.com
TREATMENTS
FOOT HEALTH
Verruca Clinic • Dermatology • Corn and Callus Removal
Minor Foot Surgery • Toenail Reconstruction • Fungal Nail Treatment • Biomechanics and Orthotics
Open: Mon, Tues, Wed & Fri 9am-5pm Thurs 9am-7pm Sat 9am-3pm Sun Closed
BEAUTY
Aesthetics • Gel Nails • Manicures and Nail Art Pedicures Eyebrow and Eyelash Tinting • Waxing Facials • Massages
To book a consultation or treatment, email soleandbeauty-333@outlook.com
If
A RICH HERITAGE
Preston city centre is a vibrant hub of history, culture and modern amenities. Known for its rich heritage, welcoming atmosphere and dynamic community, Preston is an excellent place to visit and a wonderful place to call home
Let’s explore why the city of Preston is a must-visit destination. We highlight the best things to do, look at the burgeoning café culture and discuss why it is an appealing place to live.
WHY VISIT?
RICH HISTORICAL HERITAGE: Preston boasts a fascinating history that dates back to Roman times. The city centre is home to many historical landmarks, including the Harris Museum and Art Gallery. This neoclassical building not only offers a glimpse into Preston’s past with its extensive collections of art, history and archaeology but also hosts various exhibitions and events throughout the year.
VIBRANT SHOPPING SCENE: For shopping enthusiasts, Preston offers an eclectic mix of high-street retailers, independent boutiques and bustling markets. The Fishergate Shopping Centre and St George’s Shopping Centre provide a wide range of shops, from fashion to electronics. The city’s outdoor markets, held at Market Square, are perfect for those seeking unique finds, fresh produce and local crafts.
ATTRACTIONS: Preston’s cultural scene is thriving with theatre, concerts and comedy shows. The city’s events, like the Preston Guild
and the Caribbean Carnival, also add a splash of colour and vibrancy.
CAFÉ CULTURE
COMMUNITY SPIRIT: Preston’s café culture is flourishing, with a variety of cosy spots where you can enjoy a cup of coffee and light bites – it really contributes to the city’s unique charm and appeal. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing café to unwind or a restaurant that offers a distinct dining experience, Preston has something to offer. The city’s commitment to supporting local businesses and fostering a strong community spirit makes it a fantastic place to visit and live.
THINGS TO DO
THE HARRIS MUSEUM AND ART
GALLERY: The Harris Museum is a must-visit for art and history lovers. The museum’s extensive collections and
temporary exhibitions provide an enriching experience for visitors of all ages.
AVENHAM AND MILLER PARK: These Victorian parks are a haven of tranquillity in the heart of the city. With beautifully landscaped gardens, riverside walks and scenic views, they are perfect for a leisurely stroll, a picnic or simply unwinding in nature.
THE RIBBLE STEAM RAILWAY: A short distance from the city centre, the Ribble Steam Railway offers a nostalgic journey through Lancashire’s industrial heritage. Visitors can enjoy a ride on a vintage steam train and explore the railway museum.
LOCAL MARKETS: Preston’s historic markets are a cornerstone of the city’s community. The covered Market Hall and the outdoor market offer a variety of goods, from fresh produce and artisanal foods to unique crafts and antiques.
A GOOD PLACE TO LIVE
AFFORDABLE LIVING: Compared to larger cities like Manchester or Liverpool, Preston offers a more affordable cost of living. Housing prices and rental rates are relatively lower, making it an attractive option for families, young professionals and students.
EXCELLENT TRANSPORT LINKS:
Preston is well-connected by road, rail and public transport. The city is a major railway hub, providing easy access to major cities across the UK. Its central location makes it convenient for commuting and travelling.
QUALITY EDUCATION: Preston is home to the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), which attracts students from around the world. The city also has a range of good schools and educational institutions, making it a great place for families with children.
COMMUNITY SPIRIT: Preston has a strong sense of community with numerous local events, festivals and community groups. This friendly and inclusive atmosphere makes it easy for newcomers to feel at home and build connections.
GREEN SPACES: The city centre’s proximity to beautiful parks and the Lancashire countryside provides residents with ample opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation.
GROWING ECONOMY: Preston’s economy is growing, with significant investments in infrastructure and development projects. This growth brings job opportunities and contributes to the city’s vibrant, forwardlooking spirit. n
visitpreston.com
Photography: Nina Alizada/Shutterstock.com
SUMMER: WHAT’S ON
Preston City Centre offers a vibrant and dynamic array of events throughout summer catering to various interests and age groups.
THE MET (MOBILE EVENT TENT): Running up until 3rd August, The MET will be hosting a diverse line-up of activities, workshops and events. Located at the Tesco car park in Ribbleton, this adaptable venue will feature music shows, comedy nights and cultural events, showcasing Preston’s rich arts and culture scene.
IN ABSENCE FROM PRESTON: From 19th July to 10th August, Birley Artist Studios and Project Space will present ‘In Absence from Preston’ an exhibition by Megan Dalton. This event will include photographs, videos and archival ephemera, offering a deep dive into the city’s heritage and artistic expression
LANCASHIRE FESTIVAL: Saturday 27th July sees Miller Park host a spectacular celebration of arts, culture and community spirit. Immerse yourself in a vibrant showcase of local talent, featuring live performances, art exhibitions and delicious culinary delights.
CLASSIC CAR SHOW: Sunday 18th August, enjoy a day in the park with Lancashire Vehicle Club ‘Classics in the Park’ Classic Car Show. Go and have a peruse of the automobiles of the past and enjoy the surroundings of Miller Park for a perfect setting. There will be lots of vehicles, including cars and motorcycles on display, from the eras of the 1920s to the 1980s.
BBC RADIO 2 IN THE PARK: Scheduled for September 2024, this flagship live music event by Radio 2 will take over Moor Park for two days. It’s worth noting this is one of the major music events in the area, attracting some of the most loved pop acts globally. visitpreston.com
WONDERFUL WINCKLEY AND FRIENDS
Winckley Square, in the centre of Preston, evokes fond memories for many who have lived, worked, studied or simply perched in this Georgian square as resident Steve Harrison explains
The first house in Winckley Square was built in 1799 but it took another 50 years before the square was complete. Originally planned for large individual homes around a shared garden, it has seen many changes in its 225 years. Its use has included being the hub for lawyers, doctors, dentists, assurance companies and schools (in the 1960s almost 2,000 children were educated on the square). Today it’s a mixture of commercial, social and residential and the solicitors and barristers are still there!
At the start of the 21st century it was in a sorry state – an overgrown quagmire, avoided by many.
In 2011, a group of six local business leaders and professionals set up Winckley Square Community Interest Company (WSCIC), a not-for-profit independent company aiming to drive the revival and restoration of Winckley Square. WSCIC worked voluntarily with a range of partners. Their aims included:
• To help transform Winckley Square into an award-winning scenic landmark, one of the best public spaces in the North.
ORIGINALLY PLANNED FOR LARGE INDIVIDUAL HOMES AROUND A SHARED GARDEN, IT HAS SEEN MANY CHANGES IN ITS 225 YEARS
• To create a thriving northern business, leisure, retail and cultural city quarter.
• To enhance the values and attractiveness of neighbouring properties as a prosperous place to work, live and enjoy.
A successful bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) was made and after lots of hard work, in November 2016, the £1.2m project was complete and the restored square was reopened.
To break the cycle of investment followed by decline, WSCIC approached Patricia Harrison, who lives in Winckley Square, to establish a ‘Friends of Winckley Square’ (FoWS) group with the goal of ensuring that the investment has a long-term impact.
Pat and I had been working and living in the south of England but wanted to return to Preston and live in the centre of the city. We bought what was originally a house that had been repurposed as offices and reversed the process, turning it back into a family home.
It was felt that the ‘Friends’ should have a membership which reflects more widely the residents of the Winckley Quarter as well as those who have a strong historical, cultural and social connection with, and affection for, Winckley Square.
Among the aims includes:
• To conserve and enhance the historic gardens known as Winckley Square Gardens.
• With others, to ensure the long-term sustainability and the wellbeing of the gardens for future generations.
• To engage local people in activities which share and celebrate the heritage of the gardens.
• With others, to promote the education of the public in the arts, crafts, sciences
Photography: Paul Rushton
Photography: Courtesy of Preston Council
and all other matters connected with the gardens.
• To raise funds to help finance work to support the gardens.
Members were recruited in a number of ways. Pat called at homes in the area, while some Friends worked in the businesses around the square. The establishment of a Friends’ group was publicised on Facebook and attracted interest from members of Preston Historical Society (PHS) who do not live locally but have a tremendous interest in, and appreciation of, the place of Winckley in the life of Preston. Residents were invited to an initial meeting at the Continental pub and FoWS was born in 2016. ‘Friends’ then recruited other members and a viable group was established by mid-2017. One goal in recruiting was to have a team of people which spanned the age groups. That goal has been partially achieved with an age range of early 20s to 80.
THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A FRIENDS’ GROUP WAS PUBLICISED ON FACEBOOK AND ATTRACTED INTEREST FROM MEMBERS OF PRESTON HISTORICAL SOCIETY
A regular full colour newsletter is produced and distributed widely in print and electronically. The newsletter includes ‘What’s On in the Square’, tips from the gardener Tony on what to look out for in terms of plants, insect and bird life, profiles of Friends and articles on the history and heritage of Winckley Square.
A programme of guided walks has been so successful that whereas the first walks were around the square (the first walk ‘Former Residents’ is still fully booked every time it’s offered), the range has been extended to embrace many aspects of Preston’s history from the Jacobite occupations of the 1700s through to the Industrial Revolution and the introduction of gas (Preston was the first provincial town lit by gas), the founding of the Temperance movement, the lives and actions of suffragettes and suffragists, the
tramway that ran across the Old Tram Bridge and the bridges of the Ribble.
FoWS also offer talks, some of which are to large audiences of more than 150 in the Central Methodist Church in Lune Street and others to societies and groups across the North West.
The website has profiles on former residents, the history of the square, scandalous stories and online exhibitions which includes ‘Inside Out’, a chance to see high quality images inside the buildings. One of our long-standing partners is the Preston Photographic Society (PPS).
Free events are provided for the whole of the wider community of Lancashire. Music and
family activities in summer and a Great Christmas Concert in December.
FoWS has developed close links with LCC, PCC, BID, Harris, UCLAN, Lancashire Archives and local voluntary groups. We also enjoy excellent support from the businesses around the square. Our greatest asset remains the volunteers who give their time in so many ways to sustain our work. You can’t put a price on the friendships that have been forged, we are indeed ‘Friends’ of Winckley Square. n
winckleysquarepreston.org
Photography: Paul Rushton
Photography: Paul Rushton
Photography: Courtesy of Preston Council
SIGNATURE STYLE
Heritage bicycle brand Ribble Cycles, born in Lancashire and trading for 127 years is synonymous with exquisite bikes and the epitome of style
Established in 1897, Ribble Cycles has been at the forefront of cycling retail, development and innovation, building a reputation for bespoke and personalised handcrafted bikes across the world.
With the brand’s flagship store based in Clitheroe, we explore some of the true treasures Ribble’s expert design technicians have created and witness some of the most exquisite bikes ever created. Ribble’s unique designs represent the highest level of craftsmanship found anywhere in bicycle
manufacturing. Whether it is a one-off masterpiece which is hand painted or a bike from Ribble’s signature range and on display in the showroom, every bike is hand built in Preston from the ground up by one mechanic.
RIBBLE’S CLITHEROE FLAGSHIP SHOWROOM IS ALSO A MASTERCLASS IN INNOVATIVE RETAIL DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY
Created to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day and as a fitting tribute, Ribble designed two very special superbikes that took their design inspiration from British and US aeroplanes used in World War II. Ribble’s Ultra SL R Mustang Special Edition and Ribble’s Ultra SL R Forces Special Edition have been masterminded by the brand’s Head of Product Jamie Burrow.
Ribble’s Ultra SL R P-51 Mustang Special Edition is aptly named ‘Rebellious Ribble’ after Ribble’s global criterium team –Ribble Rebellion. And it takes its artistic
interpretation and cue from the legendary USAF WWII P-51 Mustang, featuring Allied D-Day stripes, yellow nose, USAF insignia and D-Day anniversary on a silver fuselage.
Similarly, Ribble’s Ultra SL R Forces Special Edition takes its inspiration from the iconic Spitfire aircraft livery adorning Allied D-Day stripes and an RAF roundel on the green fuselage. Both bikes recently raced in the USA Armed Forces Cycling Classic by the Ribble Rebellion team with the Mustang version auctioned for TAPS charity the international non-profit organisation providing compassionate care and comprehensive resources for all those grieving the death of a military or veteran loved one.
Artist collaborations have also provided Ribble’s design team with huge inspiration along with London based award-winning ‘inkist’, Vic Lee, to produce the ultimate urban e-bike. Hand painted by Vic, it is a unique art piece with a design inspired by a bike ride from the brand’s original store in Preston on Watery Lane on the banks of the River Ribble to the capital. The journey visually expresses the joy and freedom of cycling and interweaves the narrative with the cities, iconic locations, tow paths and twisting roads down to London. The results are simply stunning.
CREATED TO COMMEMORATE THE 80TH ANNIVERSARY OF D-DAY, RIBBLE DESIGNED TWO VERY SPECIAL SUPERBIKES THAT TOOK THEIR DESIGN INSPIRATION FROM BRITISH AND US AEROPLANES USED IN WORLD WAR II
Another breathtaking masterpiece has to come from Ribble’s Gravel Ti 125 – a homage to the brand’s steel frame manufacturing heritage and as part of a series of one-off bikes created to celebrate the brands 125th anniversary. The titanium frame is finished with seamless welds for a sleek finish and unmatched strength and longevity. It looks particularly spectacular in the emeraldgreen gemstone hand-painted marble finish and 24-carat gold colourway.
Ribble’s Clitheroe flagship showroom is also a masterclass in innovative retail design and technology. The whole environment has been created to emulate an art gallery with every bike in the range displayed on a plinth and allowed its own space. Digital displays provide product information, reviews, FAQs
and allow the customer to fully interact with the bikes. Offering a fully immersive experience and unrivalled customer service this state-of-the-art showroom is well worth the visit! n
For more information on Ribble Cycles visit: ribblecycles.co.uk
Ribble Cycles
Barrow Brook Trade Park North Road, Barrow Clitheroe BB7 9BQ 01200 411581
ribblecycles.co.uk
CHARITY FOCUS
Live Preston & Fylde takes a look at ongoing fundraising projects that see thousands of pounds donated to good causes around the region
If you want to highlight a charity, please email: alma.stewart@live-magazines.co.uk
FOR THE LOVE OF ANIMALS
Easterleigh Animal Sanctuary is a registered charitable organisation operating in the Blackpool, Fleetwood and Fylde coast area since 1998. Easterleigh provides an invaluable rescue and rehoming service for countless disadvantaged animals in the region. In the past 24 years, the charity has rehomed hundreds of animals from the local area ranging from cats, dogs, horses and birds to reptiles and ferrets.
What makes it unique is that if for any reason it is not possible to rehome an animal it operates a no-kill policy, so animals can have a home for life with the charity instead. Easterleigh Animal Sanctuary makes a significant contribution to the local community and its economy by providing employment and training opportunities for up to 30 people at any given time. It offers opportunities to volunteers to participate both in one of the four charity shops and at the sanctuary at Moorsfield, giving them comprehensive training and enhancing their skill sets in order to facilitate the work.
THE MAIN FOCUS OF THE CHARITY’S WORK REMAINS WITH THE ANIMALS THEMSELVES AND THE FAMILIES WHO ULTIMATELY BENEFIT FROM THEIR REHOMING
The staff and volunteers have continuous, in-house guidance focusing on providing customers at the shops with the best experience possible –they are also fully trained and accredited in first aid and health and safety. Within the senior management team are four highly experienced and motivated events coordinators who have previously managed volunteers at the Fylde Vintage and Farm Show in Kirkham, the Wrea Green Show and the Royal Lancashire Show to name a few.
Through its charity shops, the charity works very closely with a local domestic violence unit, allowing the throughput of clothes, toys, furniture
and white goods to help victims, as well as a help the homeless campaign that endeavours to provide homeless people with free clothing and sleeping bags. In the last year, Easterleigh has partnered with High Furlong Primary School in Blackpool to offer therapeutic visits to the sanctuary for pupils with both physical and mental disabilities.
The main focus of the charity’s work remains with the animals themselves and the families who ultimately benefit from their rehoming. The team prides itself on maintaining the highest standards of accommodation and veterinary care for the animals, adopting a holistic approach that focuses on each individual animal’s behavioural, social, health and wellbeing needs. The demand for the service has been increasing for many years and the effects of the global pandemic have exacerbated this growing need with more and more animals requiring support and care. This, coupled with the increase of people experiencing mental health issues as a result of social isolation and a decrease in charitable donations, has led to an almost insurmountable pressure being levied on the charity. n
If you would like to help, please support the shops across Blackpool and Thornton-Cleveleys, or to find out more go to the website: easterleigh.org.uk
SUMMER ADVICE FOR SEPARATED PARENTS
The summer holidays can be a stressful time for separated parents, but it doesn’t have to be. Emma Procter, family law specialist at Farleys Solicitors, gives her advice for a stress-free summer
It’s important to remember that there’s no law that details how much time a child should spend with either parent but there is an expectation that both parents make these arrangements jointly with the best interests of the children in mind. Each separating family is different and there is no ‘one size fits all’ answer.
GET ORGANISED
Whether this is your first summer as a separated parent or circumstances have changed since last summer, the most important thing to do is to get organised early. This reduces the stress involved with trying to make plans at the last minute.
COMMUNICATE
Communicate with your ex-partner about
your plans for the summer. Will your shared care routine need to be adapted to meet yours, your ex-partner’s or your children’s needs? Try to be honest with each other from the outset about your options.
IF YOU’RE PLANNING TO TAKE YOUR CHILDREN
ON HOLIDAY ABROAD THIS SUMMER BE AWARE OF THE POTENTIAL ISSUES THIS COULD CAUSE AT PASSPORT CONTROL
WORKING AND CHILDCARE ARRANGEMENTS
If one or both of you has a full-time job to fulfil alongside your childcare commitments, the summer holidays can make things particularly difficult. This is where it’s important to work together, for the sake of your children, to ensure neither parent is juggling an unmanageable amount. This is also where making a plan as early as possible can help you to ensure you have enough annual leave to cover any child care needs or to book any additional child care.
BE PREPARED TO NEGOTIATE OR COMPROMISE
No matter your relationship with your
ex-partner, both of your priorities should be in ensuring your children’s needs are met. This may mean that one or both of you will need to negotiate or compromise on your original plan to come to a suitable arrangement. Try not to come to the discussions with no wiggle room on your plans.
IF YOU CAN’T REACH AN AGREEMENT
If you’ve explored all options and still cannot reach an agreement alone, you may want to consider contacting a family law specialist and taking part in mediation with a professional mediator to help you come to an arrangement.
ONE MORE THING…
If you’re planning to take your children on holiday abroad this summer without their other parent, but you have a different surname to one or more of them, be aware of the potential issues this could cause at passport control.
In some instances, you may be asked to provide proof that you are the parent of the child (through a birth certificate) or that you have permission to take the child out of the country (through a letter or court order). n
If you’re looking for advice in relation to child care arrangements, child contact, or separation, please contact our family law specialists at Farleys on 01254 368040, email: info@farleys.com, or visit our website for more information: farleys.com
A STROLL AROUND ST ANNES
This issue, local writer and walking enthusiast, Steve Garrill, takes us for a delightful walk around St Annes, taking in some fascinating historic facts.
Photography: Harry Fenton
St Annes Circular (2.75 miles)
1. From the railway station go straight ahead to reach St Annes Square. Turn right into Garden Street and at the end enter Ashton Gardens to reach Ashton Pavilion cafe and Ashton Gardens.
Ashton Gardens were made possible by a very generous donation from Lord Ashton. They were presented to the residents of St Annes in 1914. They had originally opened in 1874 as St Georges Gardens. A local man, F Harrison, won a competition to design them in 1914 and they were formally opened in July 1916.
2. Take time to explore these beautiful gardens before following the broad path to the entrance onto Clifton Drive North. Turn left.
Just before the lights on the left is an old tram shelter. The shelter has a blue plaque which tells us it was erected in 1918 by the original tramway company. The Lytham
THE SHELTER HAS A BLUE PLAQUE WHICH TELLS US IT WAS ERECTED IN 1918 BY THE ORIGINAL TRAMWAY COMPANY
St Annes tram system can trace its history back to 1896 when a line opened from South Shore in Blackpool to St Annes with an extension to Lytham 12 months later. Originally operated by trams fuelled by compressed coal gas, the system was electrified in 1903 and then in 1905 the line was connected to the Blackpool system. The last trams ran in 1937.
3. At the traffic lights cross over, turn right and cross again. Cross via the zebra to the pier.
St Annes Pier was opened in 1885 and was one of the first buildings in the new town of St Annes. It was originally 914ft long, it has now been reduced to 600ft.
4. Turn left to pass the lifeboat memorial. The memorial was erected in memory of the 27 local lifeboatmen who lost their lives in the 1886 Mexico disaster, the worst in the RNLI’s history. Discover the full story on the RNLI’s website: rnli.org.
5. Bear right at the Waters Edge café to the RNLI lifeboat station.
St Annes RNLI has a £1.5 million Shannon class lifeboat. There is a gift shop and museum above.
6. Continue along past the beach huts and the miniature railway. Bear left and turn left.
The Promenade Gardens, are a Grade II
registered public park, opened in the late 19th century. In 1896 the first St Annes Improvement Act led to the laying out of a length of designed pleasure gardens extending south-east from the pier, which later became known as North Promenade Gardens. In 1913-14 South Promenade Gardens were laid out.
7. Turn right over the little bridge and then cross to the front of the Grand Hotel.
In 1897 a Mrs Holloway had the Grand Hotel built amongst the sand dunes at what was then the end of South Promenade. It was then an isolated spot but was less than half a mile from the new golf club and was known as ‘the golfers’ hotel’ because it was used by many visiting players.
A
CARNEGIE LIBRARY IS A LIBRARY BUILT WITH MONEY DONATED BY SCOTTISH-AMERICAN BUSINESSMAN AND PHILANTHROPIST ANDREW CARNEGIE
8. Turn right and left down Links Road. Turn left to pass the Carnegie Library on your left.
The Carnegie Library was officially opened on 10th January 1906. The land was given by the St Annes-on-the-Sea Land and Building Company and Andrew Carnegie paid for the building. A Carnegie library is a library built with money donated by Scottish-American businessman and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. A total of 2,509 Carnegie libraries were built between 1883 and 1929, with 660 of them in the United Kingdom.
9. Turn right down Wood Street and second left down Park Street.
Gabriella’s on the right is my favourite café/ restaurant, but there are many more.
10. Turn right for the railway station but please turn left first and take time to explore this lovely little town.
A (VERY) BRIEF HISTORY OF ST ANNES ON THE SEA
Running to 16,000 acres, the Clifton estate once extended across southern Fylde from Clifton-with-Salwick in the east, to Blackpool in the west. The Clifton estate wanted to make more use of the desolate sandhills between Lytham and Blackpool which was part of the estate.
The scheme for a railway between Lytham and Blackpool was proposed by James Fair,
the Clifton Estates’ Land Agent and funded by local investors. St Annes-on-the-Sea was a 19th-century planned town. It began with a chapel amongst the sand dunes which served the hamlet of Hey Houses.
It was built by Colonel John Talbot Clifton who dedicated it to Saint Anne. St Annes-onthe-Sea railway station opened in 1873. An official founding ceremony for the town was held on 31st March 1875. n
There are many more local walks and a lot of fascinating local history in ‘Walks from the South Fylde Line’ by Steve Garrill.
Signed copies are available for £8.95 from Plackitt & Booth on Clifton Street in Lytham. lytham.online/walks
FUN IN THE SUN
Tourism and Cultural Services Manager at Fylde Borough Council, Tim Dixon, highlights how to spend the summer here on the sunny Fylde coast
Summer at last is here! Check out the outdoor theatre season at Lytham Hall including Romeo and Juliet, Little Women, the Adventures of Dr Dolittle, Woofers – Laughs on the Lawn LOL, not forgetting the Last Night of the Proms taking place on Sunday 25th August. Over at the Lowther Pavilion and Gardens, there’s the Folk and Roots Festival, Ice Cream Festival, outdoor cinema, plus a great range of music and entertainment all summer long –find out more on their website.
The annual Lytham 1940s Weekend takes place 17th and 18th August on Lytham Green, with a line-up of entertainment, dance, historic vehicles, battle re-enactments, life on the home front and much more. It’s a free event and there’s adjacent event parking on Lytham Green.
FAMILY FUN AT THE SEASIDE! HAVE YOU HIRED ONE OF THE AWARD-WINNING ST ANNES BEACH HUTS YET?
Do take time to explore the 78 acres of Lytham Hall’s grounds, which are forever changing through the seasons and the volunteers do such a wonderful job in the grounds and within the hall too.
Under construction at present is a new
art gallery, to be known as the Fylde Gallery where you’ll be able to see the Lytham St Annes Art Collection, which is normally to be found at the Town Hall in St Annes.
The new gallery will offer the opportunity to see different aspects of this collection with exhibitions held throughout the year, plus other visiting exhibitions. The gallery will remain free to visit, with donations very welcome for reinvestment back into the art collection.
Family fun at the seaside! Have you hired one of the award-winning St Annes beach huts yet? What a wonderful way to spend a day and enjoy fantastic views over the wideopen sandy beach over to Southport. Plus, in St Annes there’s the Little Links golf (under new ownership this year), pétanque court opposite the Grand Hotel, award winning Promenade Gardens, Ashton Gardens and the extensive sand dune network. There’s loads of events too this summer including the St Annes Music Festival, Brass in the Grass and the St Annes Kite Festival (13th – 15th September) to name but a few. Don’t forget Fairhaven Lake with its busy summer schedule of events, motorboat hire, adventure golf, tennis, paddle board hire and more, plus many independent shops in St Annes away from the main shopping street.
And away from the coast there’s the beautiful countryside – watch a game of cricket at Wrea Green, there’s views over Bowland Fells from the Cartford Inn, plus plenty of walking routes with some walking events organised by Fylde Council’s own Ranger Team. n
Photography: Mark Liebenberg
Photography: Andy Bell
FRIDAY
FAMILY - £35
(2 ADULTS & 2 CHILDREN)
ADULT - £16
SENIOR - £12 (65+ YRS)
CHILD - £4 (5-15 YRS)
CHILD - FREE (UNDER 5 YRS)
19TH, 20TH & 21STJULY 2024
EARLY BIRD TICKETS
SATURDAY SUNDAY
FAMILY - £40
(2 ADULTS & 2 CHILDREN)
ADULT - £20
SENIOR - £14 (65+ YRS)
CHILD - £6 (5-15 YRS)
CHILD - FREE (UNDER 5 YRS)
FAMILY - £40
(2 ADULTS & 2 CHILDREN)
ADULT - £20
SENIOR - £14 (65+ YRS)
CHILD - £6 (5-15 YRS)
CHILD - FREE (UNDER 5 YRS)
GLORIOUS GARSTANG LIVING
Discover vibrant community living with a stylish, luxury apartment, fabulous views and landscaped gardens – all at Stanley Place, writes Kate Bowyer. Photography: Michael Porter
Beautifully built Stanley Place, located in historic Garstang, offers the ultimate in comfortable and enjoyable living. Irresistible offers also make it even easier with a try-beforeyou-buy experience and you can enjoy some welcome help to smooth your move. Luxurious, spacious, secure and low maintenance, one and two-bedroom apartments for over 55s, offer the privacy and independence of your own home, with the best of vibrant community living. Thoughtful
touches that make a difference include ample parking, lift to all floors, a stylish communal lounge and beautiful landscaped gardens. Of course your pets are welcome, too!
Nestled between the Forest of Bowland and the Lancashire coastline, residents can revel in enviable views across to the River Wyre and Garstang Golf Club. The bustling, historic market town of Garstang is on your doorstep, offering independent shops, Booths supermarket, the Thursday market, a wide range of local amenities, activities and excellent transport links.
COME AND SEE OR TRY A STAY!
Drop in for a cup of tea or coffee and biscuits, on Welcome Wednesday held every week 11am until 4pm. A great opportunity to look around, view the stunning show apartments, relax in the stylish lounge and chat to the team and residents about living at lovely Stanley Place.
Tempted to stay? Try-before-you-buy is a unique chance to be a guest of ours at Stanley Place. Enjoy a longer visit and explore Garstang’s high street and shops, or take a stroll along the canal and marina, then make yourself at home in the hotel-style guest suite for the night! If that makes it hard to leave, McCarthy Stone’s exclusive offers make it easy to stay!
MOVING MADE EASY
We know moving can be hard to face and that’s why McCarthy Stone are here to help every step of the way. From the moment you make a reservation, through to moving day, McCarthy Stone’s exclusive offers make it smooth, swift and satisfyingly rewarding. Part exchange *: McCarthy Stone act as a cash buyer for your home, ensuring a fast and hassle-free sale. No estate agent fees and no chain – just a guaranteed sale and swifter move to Stanley Place for a relaxing new lifestyle.
Smooth Move: The help you need with the practicalities of moving, from packing and removal experts to assistance with fees, McCarthy Stone’s ‘Smooth Move’ service ensures a much better experience moving to your new home. n
Start your stress-free journey to relaxed, McCarthy Stone living with a Welcome Wednesday visit to Stanley Place, or call 0800 153 3186 to arrange a viewing.
*T&Cs apply
McCarthy Stone Stanley Place
Kepple Lane, Garstang PR3 1XH
0800 201 4811
mccarthyandstone.co.uk
THE MAGIC OF SINGAPORE
Preston-based travel expert, Joanne Wilson, suggests Singapore for a family holiday along with her thoughts on why this south east Asian destination is a top choice
Visiting some of Singapore’s offshore islands is a delightful way to spend the day. For instance, hop aboard a ferry from Changi Point on the east coast to Pulau Ubin and be transported back to 1960s Singapore thanks to the last traditional remaining Kampung villages and the Chek Jawa wetland reserve with its cycle trails and footpaths.
Island hopping
Sentosa Island is a hub of endless fun and adventure for families. From the exhilarating luge rides to splash-tastic fun at the Palawan –including Hydrodash, Hyperdrive and Splash Tribe. Don’t miss the chance to soar over the island on a zipwire, relax on sandy beaches or take a scenic ride on the cable car.
Future World at ArtScience Museum
Prepare to be mesmerised at the Future World exhibition at the ArtScience Museum. This interactive exhibit, created by teamLab, is
where art meets technology. Watch in awe as your movements and interactions transform the digital landscape in real-time, making it a perfect blend of learning and play that fascinates both the young and young-at-heart.
Canopy Park at Jewel Changi
Jewel Changi Airport is not just a transit hub, it’s a destination in itself. The Canopy Park, located at the topmost level, features walking trails, foggy bowls and the Sky Nets – all set amidst lush greenery. It’s a magical place where families can enjoy leisurely walks, take in the stunning architecture and even catch the famous Rain Vortex in action.
SINGAPORE PRESENTS A BLEND OF MODERN MARVELS, NATURAL WONDERS AND CULTURAL RICHNESS THAT MAKES IT A UNIQUE DESTINATION FOR FAMILIES
Simple pleasures
Amongst the grandeur, don’t miss out on the simple pleasures Singapore has to offer. Savour the local delight that is an ice cream sandwich from a street vendor, take an evening bicycle ride around Marina Bay, or splash around in the Gardens by the Bay Children’s Garden. Gardens by the Bay has a whole host of thrilling activities that should be a must-visit on everyone’s list. Find out how plants disperse their seeds, how mushrooms benefit rainforest communities and how plants adapt to adverse environments – there is sure to be an abundance of colour and life that will brighten your day.
Singapore presents a blend of modern marvels, natural wonders and cultural richness that makes it a unique destination for families. The city’s safe and clean environment, coupled with its efficient public transport system, makes navigating through these experiences seamless and really enjoyable. n
To book your next family adventure to Singapore, or to speak to me about further family-friendly destinations across the globe, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me on 07798910294 or email: joanne.wilson@travelcounsellors.com.
EDITOR PART-TIME FREELANCE POSITION LIVE PRESTON & FYLDE MAGAZINE
An opportunity has arisen for the role of Editor for Live Preston & Fylde magazine. The right candidate will work on a freelance basis and will preferably have NCTJ qualifications and experience of working on newspapers or magazines.
You should also be happy to meet and liaise with our many and varied advertising clients, commission work to a small team of writers and work alongside our sales team.
YOU SHOULD ALSO HAVE:
• The ability to research and generate interesting content relevant to the region
• Excellent writing, grammar, subbing and proofing skills
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• The ability to generate clean copy
• Outstanding organisational skills
• A keen interest and understanding of social media
To apply please email Live Magazines with your CV and a covering letter as to why you think you are the right person for the job: liz.walmsley@live-magazines.co.uk
COMPASSION AND CARE
Registered and Chartered Clinical Psychologist, Dr Kim Whitaker has 20 plus years’ post qualification experience. Dr Kim is skilled in the assessment of children, young people, and adults.
Dr Kim specialises in comprehensive, evidence-based reports in the field of Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
We also offer therapy for co-occurring and other mental health disorders, including Depression, Anxiety and Post Traumatic Stress.
The team includes a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist/Social Worker and a second Clinical Psychologist.
Assessment for ADHD can be in person or online and involves a structured clinical interview, observation and psychometric measures. ASD assessments require face to face assessment, which can be supplemented by online history taking.
For further information contact our dedicated team at: www.drkimwhitaker.com | 01772 952831 | admin@drkimwhitaker.com
EVERYTHING IN THE GARDEN…
The lovely, festooned eatery at Samlesbury Hall may have a new name, but the delicious food and pretty location remains the same
We’ve changed the name! Here at Samlesbury Hall we listened to our customers and prospective brides who didn’t think ‘café’ did our Garden Room justice. The delicious quality of the locally sourced food that our chefs serve, together with the prettiness of the interior and absolutely delightful festoon-lit gardens make the Garden Room eatery a foodie destination. Fido loves us! The Garden Room is completely dog friendly – we would ask that you and your pooch respect other diners, there might even be a biscuit for the best behaved!
With all the greenery and the feeling of freshness, not only with the surroundings,
there is friendly table service, pretty glassware and extra special cutlery and crockery – the Garden Room goes from strength to strength.
THERE IS FRIENDLY TABLE SERVICE, LOVELY GLASSWARE AND EXTRA SPECIAL CUTLERY AND CROCKERY
We are open every day apart from Mondays, for home cooked breakfasts from 8.30am, all day brunch, lunches from noon until 3pm and not forgetting our ever-popular afternoon teas and delicious Sunday roast.
The Garden Room is becoming a popular wedding venue for beautifully bijou ceremonies and incredible chef-prepared wedding breakfasts with your closest family and friends. Weddings are held from 4pm onwards, so we are still open every day for our regular diners.
Many of our couples are also enjoying the Garden Room the night before their wedding with a smaller party, scrummy food and plenty of drink, with lots of excited chat about the day to follow! It means they also get another night in our fabulous shepherd’s huts, which are becoming a much bigger part of the wonderful and quirky offering at Samlesbury Hall.
Enquiries are coming in thick and fast for evening celebrations. When the sun goes down the beautiful sparkly lights inside and festoon lights outside, make it such a pretty venue for many festivities – for bespoke dining or pizza, prosecco and Peroni – it’s entirely up to you!
Not forgetting private dining during the daytime, be it a baby shower, birthday celebration, a hen party or simply an excuse to get together with pals – for exclusivity, minimum numbers apply of course. Just ask!
WHEN
THE SUN GOES DOWN THE BEAUTIFUL SPARKLY LIGHTS INSIDE AND FESTOON LIGHTS OUTSIDE, MAKE IT SUCH A PRETTY VENUE
Let’s also not forget the magnificent Samlesbury Hall itself! We are proud to be 699 years old – it’s a big birthday next year! Come and visit as every penny in income goes towards keeping the hall beautiful for another 700 years.
Here’s what you can do when you’re here:
• Treat yourself to an unbelievably scrumptious waffle.
• Meander around the ancient rooms and be sure not to miss the witches garret and the ghost room.
Explore the children’s play area and hook-a-duck
• Go glamping in a shepherd’s hut.
• Get married!
• Savour a delicious afternoon tea.
• Host a meeting.
• Have a retreat or maybe a hen party?
Keep an eye on our diary! We’ve got medieval re-enactors in July, sellout Torchlight Tours in autumn (get your tickets early), the Great
and jazz
and
Samlesbury Hall
Preston New Road
Samlesbury, Preston PR5 0UP 01254 812010
samlesburyhall.co.uk
Victorian Ghost Hunt in September, murder mysteries
dinners in winter
Sunday tours – and it may be a little early to mention but Father Christmas will be visiting in December! n
UNIQUE BLEND…
Jo Malone London ambassador Tom Hardy talks about the brand’s latest ad campaign, his work as an actor and his French bulldog Blue
Actor Tom Hardy discusses his love of fragrance and why he enjoyed working on the new Jo Malone London campaign for Cypress & Grapevine Cologne Intense.
Tell us why you decided to work with Jo Malone London?
“I don’t usually get involved in commercials and adverts because I prefer acting and playing different characters. However, Jo Malone London initially reached out about a collaboration due to my affiliation with a charity that I am a trustee of called REORG, which uses Brazilian jiujitsu and CrossFit to support mental health and physical well-being for veterans, serving military and first responders. They believed we might share similarities in our approaches to supporting mental health.”
As well as starring in the campaign, you also collaborated with Jo Malone London on the concept and brought your father Chips Hardy and director Edward Berger on board. How did you go about conceptualising the campaign film together?
“Jo Malone London has a very familial vibe, so they were very encouraging and allowed me to engage my father in helping create the campaign film, which was brilliant fun for us both. We can’t tell you how valuable it is to enjoy the process of making an advert in the way they were once made.
WHAT WE TRIED
TO DO WAS USE THE REAL ATMOSPHERE OF LONDON AT NIGHT AND THE EXPERIENCE OF THAT JOURNEY IN ORDER TO EXPERIENCE WHAT THE FRAGRANCE COULD GIVE YOU
“I had long been a fan of Edward Berger’s work, so I called him and he was delighted to come on board, followed by cinematographer James Friend, composer Volker Bertelmann and of course the creative team at Jo Malone London.
“We collectively share a mutual desire to give back and make a difference where it counts, so partnering with them was a lovely blend of alchemies and shared intentions. It went beyond simply being a brand spokesperson, so that was the real draw.”
How is your London reflected in the film?
“One of the unique things about London is that it’s an open city. Similarly, the Jo Malone London fragrances are designed to be for everyone. It might seem illogical for certain ingredients to blend like cypress and grapevine,
which aren’t typical partners, but they work. “We eventually arrived at the final idea of ‘the exceptional and the contradictory’, almost a ‘London at play’ notion.
“It carries a celebratory feel to it, while showcasing a vibrant array of people coming out and coming together.”
Why was it decided to set the campaign at night?
“It was a collaborative decision creatively for us, serving as a vehicle to showcase this beautiful mix of people crossing paths during a typical London evening, each going their own way yet still very much connected.
I’ve spent many nights driving around London – it is hypnotic with this contained atmosphere that is timeless. It’s a spirit I hope has transferred into our film.”
How does scent come into the campaign?
“During the conception stage, we were intrigued by the challenge of visualising a fragrance. It was exciting trying to understand how fragrance flows, how it takes to the air, how it takes to the senses, how it can impact us.”
How do you make a scent visible on screen?
“What we tried to do was use the real atmosphere of London at night and the experience of that journey in order to experience what the fragrance could give you and the type of fragrance it is. It’s an evocation rather than a depiction.”
How did this experience differ from your usual roles?
“I grew up around the advertising of the 1970s and 1980s. It was very different to how
things are now with social media. It’s a real challenge to tell a story in 60 seconds. You’re confined to such short time frames, which was initially daunting but ultimately turned into a great mental game. How you can put narratives in, what you can see, how much you can keep in. It was fun intellectually making a movie on a micro level.”
Cypress & Grapevine Cologne Intense is the hero scent behind this campaign. What were your first impressions of the scent?
“I realise I am the ambassador for Cypress & Grapevine Cologne Intense, but what are the chances of it actually being utterly divine! I think a good fragrance has to exist without being overbearing and have an assimilation to the human being that is wearing it. To me, Cypress & Grapevine Cologne Intense has this wonderful classic, vintage and earthy scent. A lot of people have asked what it is. Even my 16-year-old also grabbed my bottle, so even the kids like it!”
KENNEL SPRAY! THAT WOULD BE GREAT. SIGN ME UP, AND MY DOG BLUE
How important is scent to you?
“I have a palette of memories that is evoked by smells. From the smell of the forearm of my mother and father, a dusty pillow, a dry barn in the sunshine. Smells can be nostalgic, they can influence the atmosphere, they can manipulate, conjure and change the dynamic of an experience very quickly without being seen.”
Finally, like us, we know you’re a big fan of dogs. Where did your love of dogs come from?
“My grandad, Ray had a dog named Louie. When I was little, I always wanted to cuddle up to Louie and he was having none of it because he was my grandad’s dog. I used to look at the way grandad and his dog were. I didn’t have any brothers or sisters and I wanted someone to hang out with me like that so I would always have a companion. The dog is a very interesting creature. They are all heart and very honest. Pure unconditional love. I wish I could be simple like that.”
We take it you would be keen on a dog grooming range then?
“I think it’s an absolute essential to have a dog grooming range! I would head up any design opportunity to get involved in that! Kennel spray! That would be great. Sign me up, and my dog Blue. Which is perfect because French Bulldogs snore and fart, so scented things for Blue are ideal.” n
EAT, DRINK AND STAY IN THE RIBBLE VALLEY
WE ARE CELEBRATING!
In the heart of the rural Ribble Valley is the idyllic Everything Retreat, which is celebrating its second anniversary
From the outset, Everything Retreat was destined to become a winner when it launched two years ago. From the luxurious lodges, each with hot tubs, to the vibrant Balance B ar (guest only amenity), this exclusive resort has become the pinnacle of luxurious elegance. Since it opened, this delightful hideaway has attracted more than 1150 guests from throughout the UK and internationally.
It’s been a busy time for founder Louise Monk and her team, who have worked continuously to progress and develop the retreat into a resort that offers guests (as the name suggests) everything!
With 12 beautifully furnished signature and themed lodges the retreat has become renowned for providing guests with a unique concierge service that deals with everything from restaurant bookings to local chauffeur services.
The retreat has also forged collaborations with some of the region’s leading restaurants as well as with local artisan suppliers – from butchers, bakers and suppliers of exclusive wines.
With every consideration to ensure a first-class experience for guests, nothing is overlooked – from delicious continental breakfast hampers to tapas in the lovely onsite bar – Louise has thought of everything.
BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION SPECIAL OFFER!
To celebrate Everything Retreat’s second birthday, check out this fantastic special offer: Book two nights or more during July and enter code LIVE121 to receive complimentary breakfast throughout your stay. 01254 965095 everything-retreat.com
A peaceful haven of tranquility, the grounds of Everything Retreat are a joy at this time of year with the views across the valley, nothing short of spectacular!
Nestling in the Mellor hillside, the retreat is also surrounded by wildlife and there are
WINNING FORMULA!
Ribble Valley Stars In Tourism Awards, Tourism Innovation Winner 2023
LUXlife Resorts and Retreats Awards Most Idyllic Accommodation Winner 2023
Ribble Valley Business Awards New Business Winner 2023
Ribble Valley Business Awards Social Media Champion Finalist 2023
Lancashire Tourism Awards New Tourism Business Finalist 2023
Ribble Valley Stars In Tourism Awards Team Excellence Winner 2024
Ribble Valley Business Awards Tourism Business Finalist 2024
EVAs Enterprise Vision Awards Hospitality Finalist (currently) 2024
Influential Businesswoman Awards Best Idyllic Retreat CEO Winner 2024
plenty of scenic walks to enjoy, as Louise says: “We are thrilled to attract visitors to the area – it shows them just how vibrant and beautiful the Ribble Valley is.”
The multi-award winning retreat, also hosts exclusive guest-led themed events –whether that’s a yoga break, a workplace team-builder or a private dining experience, this is a place where the magic happens! n
To find out more about Everything Retreat and forthcoming events go to the website.
EVA AWARDS…
Everything Retreat has been nominated in the 2024 Enterprise Vision Awards (EVAs) in the Hospitality Industry category.
The nomination states: “Louise has crafted a haven of wellness and luxury in the heart of the Ribble Valley. With her exquisite self-catering lodges, she offers guests an unforgettable escape into relaxation and indulgence. Every stay is a journey of tranquillity, creating cherished memories that last a lifetime. Cheers to Louise for redefining hospitality!”
The EVAs are the premier female business awards in the UK and this year the awards will be celebrating its 13th anniversary.
This summer, the place to be as the temperatures rise is the yard at Holmes Mill. From a spontaneous drink with mates after work to one of those laid-back afternoon-intoevening weekend sessions, the yard is a place to simply go with the flow.
With outdoor seating for more than 150, there’s plenty of room to mix and mingle with a friendly bunch of locals and visitors. And as afternoon slides into golden hour, the buzz gets a little louder as the DJ cranks up the volume.
From craft ales and cask beers to fine wines, artisan gins and fizz, there’s plenty of choice at the indoor and outdoor bars, so rack up another round and settle in to make a night of it.
But it isn’t just about the booze. The beer hall carries a huge selection of alcohol-free drinks while the Food Hall Café serves a wide range
of speciality coffees and don’t forget to sample the mouth-watering choice of ice creams on offer at the Gelateria.
THE ULTIMATE DESTINATION TO ELEVATE YOUR WEEKEND
If you’re celebrating a special occasion with friends, split the gang into teams and grab a couple of lanes in the Bowling Alley for some Duck Pin Bowling.
It’s easier than a full-size alley so everyone can really get involved. Strike!
With a full programme of live music, DJs and special events throughout the summer, the yard at Holmes Mill is the ultimate destination to elevate your weekend.
For our full line-up of summer entertainment, visit our website or follow us on socials to stay in the loop! Scan the QR code for the latest updates.
DELICIOUS ALFRESCO DINING
It’s been a while, but Summer has finally arrived and for easy alfresco dining, we’ve got you covered!
Holmes Mill is the award-winning destination foodies all over the northwest are talking about: a fabulous venue which anyone with an appetite for epicurean adventure will love!
A ONE-STOP TO INDULGE YOUR WILDEST OUTDOOR DINING DREAMS!
Pop into the Food Hall at Holmes Mill to discover authentic Lancashire produce – showcasing
all the things we do best: outdoorreared meats, mouth-watering cheeses, scotch eggs, samosas, bhajis and pies… lots of pies. Discover a huge selection of locally-sourced produce at our butcher’s and deli counters and put together a picnic of epic proportions and if you’re in a hurry – just ask our friendly food experts to do it all for you!
Choose between a Posh Picnic to eat in the Castle Grounds or a succulent Butcher’s BBQ Pack to take home and griddle to perfection. The Food Hall also stocks a vast range of beers, wines and grown-up soft drinks – truly a one-stop to indulge your wildest outdoor dining dreams!
And while you’re waiting for your order, why not treat yourself to coffee and cake in the bustling Food Hall café. Just grab a window table and just watch the world go by.
Our BBQ Packs and Posh Picnics are specially made to order.
Pre-order online or in person and collect direct from the Food Hall. Scan the QR code below for details.
in one of the many delightful dining areas, decorated with antique paintings and country artefacts – it really is very pretty and welcoming.
Any good pub should serve a decent pint and I chose a local brew, Pride of Pendle, which was served perfectly – and it was delicious and very appropriate as we were so close to the majestic Pendle Hill!
THE CHEDDAR CHEESE AND TRUFFLE WAS A MARRIAGE MADE IN HEAVEN
Matt soon started to tantalise us with a selection of canapes to whet our appetites, goat’s cheese and leek croquettes, smoked bacon and pancetta sausage rolls and Wiswell chicken – sticky and gently spiced. These
SIMPLY STUNNING
While the Taste of Freemasons menu looked amazing, Simon Smith opted for a la carte choices to discover a series of dishes that were innovative and totally delicious
Tucked away in the pretty Lancashire village of Wiswell, the Freemasons restaurant with rooms is a perfect example of a dreamy, charming pub with amazing food. In the background, some exciting changes are afoot with Head Chef Matt Smith leading the drive to take the Freemasons to the next culinary level.
On an unusually sunny and warm evening, we were welcomed and shown to our table
were all fabulous and I would return just for the sausage roll! The Taste of Freemasons menu looked amazing with six courses featuring the kitchen’s best dishes. However, we opted to choose an a la carte starter plus a cheeky soup and a main course.
My choice, an Isle of Mull cheese souffle with a delicate summer truffle sauce was simply superb – the Cheddar cheese and truffle was a marriage made in heaven. Judith opted for duck parfait, beetroot and port jelly walnuts and baked beetroot. This was absolutely delicious but the piece de resistance was the homemade date and walnut bread, which was worthy of a star on its own – fabulous!
Photography: Suzanne Skeen
We had asked if we may also have a small soup course – English pea and asparagus velouté was a picture in a very delicate bowl, accompanied by a Sharrock’s Lancashire bomb hotdog. The dish was a brilliant celebration of seasonal local produce expertly crafted into a sublime treat. A rest was required and the head waiter duly obliged, allowing us time to relax, admire our surroundings and savour a beautiful glass of Saint-Veran white.
I OPTED FOR TURBOT, A VERY GENEROUS PORTION, COOKED BEAUTIFULLY AND SERVED WITH A RICH MUSSEL AND BASIL MARINIERE SAUCE – A PERFECT ACCOMPANIMENT FOR THE SAINT-VERAN
I could not help but overhear a guest on the nearby table, who had some food intolerances, being expertly guided through her choices –so nice to see a professional, kind and caring member of a busy team being so helpful. Time to move on and Judith chose Nidderdale lamb with new potatoes and cauliflower cheese. The texture and flavour of the just-pink lamb was everything you could ask for. Judith wasn’t keen to share!
I was very tempted by well-aged Lancashire beef fillet and Roscoff onion but wisely I think, opted for turbot, a very generous portion, cooked beautifully and served with a rich mussel and basil Mariniere sauce – a perfect accompaniment for the Saint-Veran!
A difficult choice awaited with the desserts, but for me the choice of Snickers Freemasons style with peanut butter and miso parfait,
simply tremendous!
Judith’s burnt honey custard tart with cider caramel and brown sugar ice cream lived up to it description – a super ending to a lovely meal with superb cooking, friendly and attentive staff and great surroundings –this little corner of Lancashire is not to be missed. n
salted caramel and banoffee sorbet was
OPEN GARDEN
A two-day Open Garden event at Great Mitton Hall is set to be another record-breaker, raising much-needed funds for various charities
Great Mitton Hall is once again holding an Open Garden event when visitors will be able to walk around the delightful gardens, displayed at their best thanks to owner Jean Kay, who each year raises money for various charities through a small admission charge.
Now in its 13th year, the Open Garden at Great Mitton Hall, features lovely lavenderedged pathways, wild roses tumbling over ancient stone walls, 50 manicured topiaries and a large fish pond while eye-catching stone sculptures take centre stage – all with the beautiful backdrop of the medieval All Hallows Church next door and views of the open countryside and River Ribble beyond.
There is plenty of seating where visitors
can enjoy a refreshing cuppa and slice of homemade cake and there will also be a variety of stalls including plants, books, delicious cakes and bric-a-brac.
“Throughout the year people very generously donate beautiful items for the stalls, which is lovely,” says Jean, who tends the gardens of Great Mitton Hall all year round.
Last year’s event was a resounding success raising over £5,000 for Combat Stress, Walking With the Wounded and HAPPA.
This year all proceeds from the event will go to Walking With the Wounded, Help for Heroes and The Brooke. n
GREAT MITTON HALL OPEN GARDEN
3rd & 4th August – 1pm to 5pm
Admission: £5 (adults), £3 (children) Mitton Road Great Mitton near Clitheroe
TAP INTO TREASURE
At The Beer Shack, in the heart of Clitheroe, it’s not just about the beer – a warm welcome awaits, great company, comfy seating, tasty snacks and even (said in a whisper) non-beer beverages! But it’s also magnificently about the very best beer, with a palatetantalising array of honest-togoodness, traditional and innovative craft beers refreshingly available in pint, half, third and two-third pint measures to suit every thirsty throat.
Kate Bowyer visits the popular Beer Shack where there’s beers to sample from around the corner to around the world! Photography: Kirsten Platt
Championing independent breweries from around the corner and around the world, a huge selection of ever-changing guest
taps, classic cask favourites, refreshing IPAs, satisfying stouts, sours and gluten-free beers will keep you coming back for more.
DISCOVER A PALATE-TANTALISING ARRAY OF HONEST-TO-GOODNESS, TRADITIONAL
Spoilt for choice? Try a three-third tasting flight, or stock up with cans and bottles to transport the taste of your best evening or afternoon, home.
Relax in the beer garden with a Beer Shack Beer, their gorgeous, first-ever homebrew, or sing with your supping to great live weekend music. Whatever summer’s doing, drop in and discover what’s putting the ‘Oh!’ into Clitheroe! n
The Beer Shack 22-24 King Street Clitheroe BB7 2EP 01200 411967 info@thebeershack.uk thebeershack.uk
THE CAFÉ THAT KEEPS IT LOCAL
Anita Orchard, owner of the Apricot Meringue, talks about her quirky café-tearoom and why she has fallen in love with Clitheroe.
Photography: Kirsten Platt
As president of Clitheroe’s Chamber of Trade, Anita Orchard is passionate about local business and that includes her own – the Apricot Meringue café.
Always striving to support other Lancashire businesses, Anita uses local produce in the café, whenever she can: “I think it’s really important to support local people.”
Buying fruit and veg from Walkers on the market, cheese and butter from Carron Lodge, fish from Wellgate, milk and cream from
Primrose Dairy, meat from Farnsworths, ice cream from Wallings and coffee from Clitheroe’s Coffee Exchange, Anita adds: “While I really believe in buying local, there’s no getting away from the fact that the produce tastes better too! The quality is amazing.”
WE HAVE PERFECTED THE RECIPES FOR THESE LOVELY LIGHT DESSERTS SO PEOPLE DON’T EVEN REALISE THEY’RE GLUTEN FREE
Anita and husband Dave took over the Apricot Meringue three years ago – the café originally began 42 years ago when it was a traditional, mainstay tearoom: “It is the type of cozy place that gives you a big metaphorical hug!” says Anita, who strives to continue and progress that ethos.
While the menu continues to feature popular classics, Anita and the team are
gradually introducing new innovative dishes to the ever-changing specials menu: “We want to adapt to changing tastes and introduce more modern food too. We offer traditional meals and pies all made in house, but also want to experiment with new and exciting flavours.”
The café is also mindful of allergies and has a delightful selection of gluten-free desserts: “We have perfected the recipes to create lovely light desserts so people don’t even realise they’re gluten free.”
Afternoon tea at the Apricot Meringue is particularly popular: “It’s more of a silver service elegant event – we love the likes of the Ritz or Betty’s so we want our guests to feel pampered for a few hours,” says Anita. “It’s very indulgent, which is what we believe afternoon tea should be – guests often take food home with them and we are more than happy for them to do that!”
With three large rooms, the café can cater for up to 75 people and looking to the future the Apricot Meringue will be adding to its busy itinerary. The café currently hosts private events and children’s parties (which also feature a junior afternoon tea) and going forward hopes to host live music events in the evening. They also offer an outside catering service for any occasion.
Employing an efficient team of 17 full and part-time staff with an age range of 14 to 66, the Apricot Meringue is in safe hands with Anita at the helm: “We have a fantastic team who take pride in their work and all love to make our guests feel relaxed and welcome.
“I love meeting the people who come into the café and hearing their stories. I am so lucky to do what I do and since moving to the north, I have fallen in love with Clitheroe, it is a place where people look out for one another but are also straight talkers and I love that!” n
The Apricot Meringue
15 King Street, Clitheroe BB7 2EU 01200 426933 apricotmeringue.co.uk
LIFTING THE SPIRIT…
The new summer menu at Clitheroe’s Emporium is a joy to behold with Mediterraneaninspired dishes that are simply delicious, writes Lucy Bale
The Emporium is part of the foundations of the Ribble Valley’s food and drink scene, and rightly so! Once a Methodist church in the heart of Clitheroe, lots of you will know it now for it’s vibrant atmosphere set over three beautifully designed floors. As a brasserie, coffee shop, wine bar and pizzeria, there really is something for everyone –and as if that’s not enough to tick all of your boxes, it’s the perfect place for a spot of people-watching!
I visited with a friend on a grey, rainy Thursday to lift my spirits (so much for the British summer) with their exciting new menu.
It’s a destination for any event, whether you want to call in for a coffee with friends,
up hungry as you might be tempted by a few extras!
I started with the fried calamari and saffron aioli which almost looked too perfect to eat – but somehow, I managed! The aioli was perfectly zingy against the crisp calamari and ideal to share if you can make peace with giving one away! I then fancied the wild mushroom and chicken fettuccine, with a side of rocket and parmesan salad – I think they call that balance, right? My friend went for the soup of the day, with a wedge of crusty bread – slightly more difficult to do a straight swap for some calamari, but I got a few spoonfuls and it was pure comfort in a bowl. She then carried on the pasta theme and went for the seafood tagliatelle, which arrived towering with a generous portion of mussels, cockles and king prawns. Disappointingly, we couldn’t quite manage a dessert – I did say
make sure to go hungry! Next time, I’m making room for the summer fruit and mascarpone mille feuille or the sticky toffee pudding –or the chocolate creme brulee! Not quite sure how I’ll choose but that’s a future problem for me to fathom.
If a glass of wine and a small bite to eat is more your vibe, the menu has plenty of sharing platters, small plates and a three for £18 nibbles section. The gorgonzola croquettes, maple glazed chorizo and the prosciutto and fig bruschetta make for a delightful trio with an icy glass of rose! I think I’ll be back for the Greek mezze platter and a few glasses of wine with friends on a sunny Saturday afternoon.
So, if you’re trying out the Emporium’s breakfast, lunch or dinner options, you won’t be disappointed by what they have to offer and with events always on the itinerary, the Emporium really is the place to be throughout the summer! n
have some nibbles with a few glasses of wine or if you want to enjoy the fabulous menu. My tip to you would be make sure you turn
ENJOY SUMMER IN STYLE
Gastropub the Rum Fox is the perfect place to enjoy the summer months with wonderful food in stylish surroundings, writes Gail Bailey
“The beautiful garden room with its innovative, retractable roof is the ideal spot to enjoy the summer sun,” says chef patron of the Rum Fox, Bob Geldeard. “We are lucky to have fabulous views over Pendle and it’s the ideal place to relax, unwind and sample some of the sensational summer menus and new dishes we’ve created.”
And there is plenty to choose from at the popular gastropub. Whether it’s an early bird meal, a lovely long lunch, a romantic dinner or even a ‘stop off’ after a walk in the Ribble Valley countryside, the menu continually evolves: “We’ve extended our two or three course set menu from lunch time into the early evenings on Wednesday and Thursday between 5pm and 6.30pm,” explains Bob.
There is the now also the added choice of a luxury sandwich made with award-winning sourdough from Kendal bakery, Lovingly Artisan: “We only ever use the finest ingredients and products in all our dishes and Lovingly Artisan are famous for their natural ingredients and their passion to make and bake true bread,” explains Bob.
10 people enjoying dishes from the weekly changing menu or something bespoke created by Bob.
With comfortable armchairs, open stonework and large dining tables, the Rum Fox has quickly become one of the area’s most popular dining venues and Bob’s menus continue to delight and surprise. The popular Wine Club will also resume this summer when at the beginning of August, Richard Bracken from Milestone Wines will be in attendance: “Our Wine Club events have quickly sold out when we first introduced them,” says Bob.
“Customers can enjoy a stunning menu created especially for the evening along with the special selection of wines expertly chosen and introduced by Richard.”
THE BEAUTIFUL GARDEN ROOM WITH ITS INNOVATIVE, RETRACTABLE ROOF IS THE IDEAL SPOT TO ENJOY THE SUMMER SUN
A walk along the River Ribble or over Grindleton Fell, followed by a three cheese and onion toasted sandwich, a beef and blue cheese on sourdough or a Wellgate Fisheries smoked salmon bagel is a recipe for a perfect day – and even better if accompanied by a chilled glass of wine or a local craft ale!
Recent winners of the Best New Tourism Business Award at the Lancashire Tourism Awards, the Rum Fox has also become an extremely popular place for private birthday and wedding celebrations: “We have parties in our restaurant, garden room or occasionally the entire venue,” explains Bob. But for those wanting a luxury private dining experience there is nowhere better than the intimate Den dining space, which can cater for up to
The food, the atmosphere and the warm hospitality has been wowing guests since the opening of the Rum Fox last year and with a recent addition of their very own allotment in the village, there will be the added bonus of Rum Fox’s homegrown herbs, gooseberries and raspberries to add an extra summer twist to your plate. n
The Rum Fox Sawley Road Grindleton Clitheroe BB7 4QS 01200 871691
info@therumfox.co.uk therumfox.co.uk
EDUCATION NEWS
WALK FOR TANZANIA
AKS’ annual ‘Longest Day Walk’ takes place each June in association with Blackpool Rotary to raise much appreciated funds for the school’s legacy international charity partner, Village Aid Tanzania. This year’s event was held in June and was the biggest turnout yet, with students, families, teachers and operational staff from across the school coming together raising well over £1000. The walk mirrors the daily commute faced by many school children in Tanzania who walk miles to school on empty stomachs. The AKS community completed the 10k from the windmill in Lytham to St Anne’s beach and back to school.
TRIPLE NOMINATION FOR MYERSCOUGH
Three Myerscough College apprentices have been named on the shortlist for the 2024 Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year. The annual event celebrates the best student greenkeepers in the country, and they now go through to the final in September. All of the Myerscough finalists are studying while working at golf clubs across the country. They are: The Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year finalists: Matt McCreadie, greenkeeper at Tadmarton Heath Golf Club Jack Wellings, greenkeeper at JCB Golf & Country Club. The Toro Young Student Greenkeeper of the Year finalists: William Moore, apprentice greenkeeper at Kilworth Springs Golf Club.
SPORTING ACHIEVEMENTS
Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall celebrates its best-ever performance at the Independent Associations of Prep Schools sports and pupil events (IAPS) this year! Annabel and Orlaith proudly finished second nationally, the U13 Boys’ team finished in the top eight in the UK. Additionally, the U11 Girls’ A team finished 11th nationally and the U11 Boys A team and B teams finished 15th and 16th out of a 32 draw. Each team performed commendably, showcasing the depth of talent across the younger groups!
NATIONAL SCHOOL THEATRE AWARDS
Nominated Westholme Performing Arts students headed down to London last month for the National School Theatre Awards. With a star-studded line-up of theatre patrons announcing awards to the top performing schools in the country, Westholme School walked the red carpet as deserved finalists for Best Musical Production, for the spring production of Les Misérables as well as Best Actor and Actress nominations. A special congratulations to Lily in Year 8, who won Best Supporting Actress for her performance as Gavroche.
PREP PUPILS TAKE TO THE STAGE
It was the turn of Prep 6 Westholme students to shine on the Croston Theatre stage recently as they performed ‘We’re All In This Together’ – a classic rendition of High School Musical. With high energy dance routines and catchy songs, the confidence of every student shone through and all their hard work in rehearsals paid off. Performing Arts is part of the curriculum throughout Prep and because of this, students develop their confidence and essential communication skills from an early age.
CAMPING COUTURE CLAIMS NATIONAL PRIZE
A University of Central Lancashire student has won a highly prestigious fashion award after impressing senior industry figures with her attractive range of childrenswear. Jasmin Honeyball, a BA (Hons) Textile Design undergraduate, scooped the top prize in the Childrenswear category at Graduate Fashion Week 2024. The 21-year-old wowed judges from JoJo Maman Bébé, Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury’s TU and Vogue childrenswear with her range of gender-neutral camping inspired outfits and accessories for youngsters. Jasmin, who won a competition with children’s bedding company Happy Linen in her second year, will graduate with a First-class degree.
AGES 3-11
Monday-Friday school with optional sports activities and fixtures*
Fees including activities, lunches, swimming, drama, music and more…
Free weekly swimming lessons for all pupils
Over 40+ co-curricular activities including fencing
Bus routes available across Unrivalled facilities including tennis dome and Olympic-sized
Additional outdoor
Art and design room Newly-refurbished science labs to include food technology
AN EDUCATION LIKE NO OTHER
A global community, Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall provides an unrivalled education for local children as well as those from around the world
With a 430-year legacy of excellence and set in breathtaking countryside grounds, Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall Prep School transcends the ordinary with exceptional educational experiences, at a competitive cost. With fees comparable to other local schools and a superior offering that surpasses any other, Stonyhurst enriches lives both now and for years to come.
As parents, we all seek the best educational experience for our children, a nurturing environment where they can flourish academically, socially and emotionally.
Well, look no further. In the heart of the picturesque Ribble Valley lies a beacon of educational excellence unlike any other. St Mary’s Hall Prep School stands unrivalled in its commitment to fostering holistic development, instilling lifelong values and providing a myriad of opportunities for young minds to explore and excel.
Within Stonyhurst’s safe and inspiring 1000-acre estate over 40 extra-curricular activities await Prep School pupils, catering to a range of diverse interests and passions, led by those who are every bit as passionate in helping the children discover new talents and unleash potential outside of the classroom. Whether it’s sport, music or arts, or even activities not as readily available in the local region, such as archery, fencing and street dancing, there’s something for everyone to immerse themselves in, cultivating a love for learning outside of academia.
Many of the activities are supported by facilities that are nothing short of exceptional, with many including the professional theatre,
25m swimming pool, golf simulator, tennis dome and sports hall, enabling year-round participation. There is also an Olympic-sized AstroTurf pitch along with a range of outdoor sport pitches for rugby, football, cricket, hockey, golf and netball. Weekly swimming lessons, in particular, will also be included in the fees from this September.
And there is even more for families to get excited about, with a new, state-of-the-art dance studio being built for September 2024, along with further projects throughout the next academic year, including a new art and design room, fully refurbished science labs to accommodate food technology and additional outdoor play areas. This is all part of a £400,000 investment by Stonyhurst in the pupil experience to take education and opportunities to the next level.
For aspiring athletes, the school’s connections with professional sports clubs provide unparalleled opportunities for growth and development. Pupils have access to experienced, knowledgeable coaches, including Director of Tennis, David Shaw, who has been recognised as the LTA
Performance Coach of the Year for his work on the Stonyhurst tennis programme, with all the sports facilities allowing pupils to hone their skills on the same grounds where regional and national champions are made.
On-site there is also a working observatory and the captivating Stonyhurst Museum, home to over 100,000 artefacts and historical books, which is utilised as a unique resource to spark curiosity and bring elements of the curriculum to life through interactive learning. There aren’t many schools, after all, where pupils can handle dinosaur fossils and shark teeth, and get up close to items of huge historical significance, such as Shakespeare’s First Folio and Christ’s Crown of Thorns.
THIS
IS ALL PART OF A £400,000 INVESTMENT BY STONYHURST IN THE PUPIL EXPERIENCE
Stonyhurst also understands the importance of a healthy body as well as a sharp mind, which is why all school meals are included in the fees, ensuring that every child receives nutritious, balanced meals throughout the day, with healthy eating habits strongly encouraged to promote overall wellbeing. This is supported by the inclusivity and diversity of the Prep School, where the global community of several nationalities from all corners of the world enriches pupils’ perspectives and broadens their horizons as they become comfortable with peers from different cultures to their own, preparing them to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
And at the core of Stonyhurst’s ethos are the Jesuit values, woven throughout all aspects of school life, that help to shape compassionate, selfless and confident individuals, striving to make the world a better place for all, particularly the most vulnerable. Through a curriculum infused with principles of service, empathy and integrity, pupils are not only academically enriched but also equipped with a moral compass to navigate the complexities of the world around them. This emphasis on character development sets Stonyhurst apart, nurturing well-rounded future leaders of positive change, who are as inspiring as they are respected.
Peace of mind is also offered for busy parents thanks to the wrap-around care at St Mary’s Hall, where from 8am to 6pm they can be assured in the knowledge that their child is safe and being supported throughout
the day. Whether it’s help with homework, which can be done after lessons have ended for the day, or evening activities and extra social time with friends, the dedicated staff go above and beyond to ensure that every child’s needs are met.
In conclusion, Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall stands alone as more than a school, but an entire experience of genuine value for children and their parents alike that will serve them well for the rest of their lives.
It is an excellent foundation for any young person, regardless of their aspirations, where
Learn more about the new offering and investment into St
and
every effort is made and provided for them to not only reach but maximise their potential. The unique environment has inspired and played a key role in starting the successful careers of many individuals, so the only question is whether you are ready for your child to join this extraordinary journey of learning, growth and discovery? n
Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall Stonyhurst, Clitheroe BB7 9PU 01254 827073 stonyhurst.ac.uk
Mary’s Hall
Stonyhurst College
From the statement entrance through to their state-of-the-art facilities and access to innovative learning resources, Westholme School is home to both Senior and Prep pupils.
Whilst both have their own unique building, the overarching message is one of unity – Westholme has a strong family ethos where relationships are built on every level. The school prides itself on offering a stable nurturing and holistic environment to enable its children to thrive.
Prep children have the benefit of a blended
A JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY
If first impressions are the most lasting, then time spent at Westholme School is memorable from entrance to exit, writes Danusia Osiowy, who speaks to Deputy Head and Early Years Lead, Judith Dixon
learning approach. Younger children have access to innovative facilities throughout the whole school including the swimming pool, the Astroturf, the professional Croston Theatre, recording studio and the science, design, food and technology rooms. Early Years Lead, Judith Dixon speaks enthusiastically about how the INSPIRED Sixth Form students work with younger children as part of special projects, such as Playground Ambassadors and Enterprise and wider school initiatives to further enrich their experience.
PREP SCHOOL
The Prep School reception, punctuated with its signature purple colour, is adorned with pictures of children smiling, learning and achieving – a philosophy that is echoed and advocated by Deputy Head and Early Years Lead, Judith Dixon: “Staff ensure every day is an opportunity for new discovery and our children are happy, we know happy children flourish.
“The children are taught by specialist
teachers who are passionate about teaching creatively across the curriculum, providing an inspiring learning environment where individual talents are recognised and nurtured and children have the opportunity to reach their full potential.”
At Westholme Prep the creative comes in many guises – from weekly outdoor learning sessions in the bespoke William’s Wood, learning how to compose music, designing and building a bug house or creating 3D bubble wands – the list is exciting and novel. School trips are plentiful and planned to
align with aspirations such as the recent visit to Manchester Airport for Reception class children, where they delved into the world of aviation and potential career opportunities.
“We pride ourselves on enriching the curriculum by organising activities on and off the site,” explains Judith.
The 21st century wheel of essential skills, on display for all to see, is woven into everything the school undertakes with a focus on equipping each child with tools to succeed in life, developing character, leadership, thinking and collaboration.
“Our curriculum ensures equal importance is placed on knowledge and skills that will equip our children for their future. We prepare our children to be successful and teach them to be able to adapt, be independent and have empathy.”
WELL-BEING
Nutrition and well-being are also intrinsic and the children are taught accordingly so they go on to make well-informed choices to aid a healthy body and mind, making tangible the school motto, Mens Sana in Corpore Sano.
Lunch is a special time where staff and children from across the school eat together in the main dining room. There is an extensive choice of home-cooked dishes, with a wide variety of dietary requirements catered for.
Prep School children learn table etiquette, are encouraged to try new foods in a kind and caring atmosphere and are supported to develop independence.
There are opportunities for children to work with key stakeholders such as the catering company, Thomas Franks, which recently showed them how to make a healthy smoothie. The on-site school nurse works with the youngest children and recently taught them how to place somebody in the recovery position and how to dial 999.
Other special activities include a Reception
spent developing positive relationships with parents.
WE DON’T KNOW WHAT SKILLS A FOUR-YEAROLD MIGHT NEED LATER IN LIFE, BUT WE KNOW THEY NEED TO BE ABLE TO ADAPT,
BE
INDEPENDENT AND HAVE EMPATHY
“It’s a favourable time for our youngest children, improving emotional regulation, concentration and a time in which they become aware of their own feelings. It is a calm and quiet session where they listen to their bodies and take time out from their busy week.”
FAMILY
Equally important are the families behind the children. Dedicated time is also
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
Discover Westholme for yourself
OPEN EVENING: Thursday 3rd October, 6pm – 9pm
Looking for Reception 2025 places? PREP R DISCOVERY DAY: Friday 11th October, 11am – 12.30pm
Discovery Days were introduced 18 months ago as a way of establishing the beginning of a positive relationship with parents, who are keen to learn first-hand about the school. The morning begins with an activity for preschool children and their parents and wraps up with lunch in the school dining room.
The partnership is further nurtured through hosting regular parent events throughout the whole of Prep.
“We have a strong open-door policy for our parents, who want to come and support their children’s learning. They trust us and we trust them.”
As testament to the school, Judith has been with Westholme for more than 20 years and remains even more confident of its role going forwards.
“Parent relationships are important to us, and communication is encouraged. I look forward to receiving emails from parents sharing what their children have enjoyed doing at the weekend. I am proud to say we are one big family where everyone belongs.
“The curriculum provides wonderful opportunities for every girl and boy. Children become well-rounded independent and confident individuals who see themselves as an important part of the Westholme family.” n
class weekly yoga session, used as a time to reflect over the past week and look forward to the week to come.
TRULY INSPIRING!
Chief Executive at North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, Babs Murphy, describes her excitement for this year’s Be Inspired Business Awards
For the last 41 years, Babs Murphy has been a crucial part of the Chamber of Commerce. Hailing from the North-East but having resided in Lancashire for more than 40 years, she is now an adopted Lancastrian. Here, she reflects on the latest award preparations ahead of the glamorous Be Inspired Business Awards (BIBAs) ceremony to be held in September: “I am incredibly excited to share with you all the amazing journey we have been on leading up to the BIBAs.
“As the event draws closer, I can’t help but reflect on the hard work, dedication, and passion that has gone into making this year’s awards the best yet.
“First and foremost, I am thrilled to announce that we received a record number of applications for the BIBAs this year. It was
FROM INNOVATIVE STARTUPS TO ESTABLISHED INDUSTRY LEADERS, EACH BUSINESS HAD A UNIQUE STORY TO TELL AND A DEDICATION TO EXCELLENCE
“With more than 120 judges sitting on the 20 category panels, the process of narrowing down the applicants was no easy feat. Each judge brought their own expertise and knowledge to the table, ensuring that every business was given a fair and thorough evaluation. After much deliberation, we were able to dwindle the numbers down to just eight businesses for each category. It was a tough decision, but we are confident that we have chosen the best of the best to represent Lancashire at the BIBAs.
“One of the highlights of the BIBAs process has been the BIBAs on Tour. In the final leg of the journey, we travelled the length and breadth of Lancashire visiting businesses who had made it through to the final round. It was an incredible experience to see firsthand the passion and dedication that these businesses put into their work every day. From small startups to long-standing local institutions, the variety of businesses we visited was truly inspiring.
truly inspiring to see so many businesses in Lancashire putting themselves forward to be recognised for their hard work and dedication. It was a testament to the thriving business community that we have here in Lancashire and it made the task of choosing our finalists incredibly difficult.
“As we visited each business, it became clear that the passion for what they do was what set them apart. From innovative startups to established industry leaders, each business had a unique story to tell and a dedication to excellence that was truly inspiring. It was an honour to meet the faces behind these incredible businesses and to see their hard work and dedication.
“Now, as we prepare for the BIBAs ceremony, I am filled with excitement and anticipation. The night promises to be a celebration of the best of Lancashire business, with awards being presented in categories ranging from Small Business of the Year to Family Business of the Year. The evening will be a chance to honour and recognise the incredible businesses that make our community unique and thriving.
I’M SO LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING WHO WILL COME OUT ON TOP AT THE BIBAS –THE COMPETITION IS FIERCE!
“I am proud to be a part of the BIBAs and to have had the opportunity to witness firsthand the incredible passion and dedication that drives the businesses of Lancashire. As we prepare to announce the winners at the ceremony, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of this amazing journey. The BIBAs are not just an awards ceremony, they are a celebration of the hard work, perseverance and dedication that goes into running a successful business.
“I’m so looking forward to seeing who will come out on top at the BIBAs – the competition is fierce, but I know that each and every business that has made it this far is a deserving winner in their own right. I am excited to celebrate with them and to honour the incredible work they do.
“So, mark your calendars and join us at the Blackpool Tower Ballroom for the Be Inspired Business Awards. It promises to be a night of celebration, inspiration and above all, recognition for the incredible businesses that make Lancashire such a vibrant and thriving community. I can’t wait to see you there!” n
The BIBAs are taking place at the Blackpool Tower Ballroom on Friday 20th September.
Main image: Babs Murphy, Brendan Cole, Chamber President Jane Cole, Lancastrian of the Year David Taylor CBE DL, Tim Webber MBE
BUSINESS MATTERS
The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in Preston and Fylde, where business always matters
If you have any Business Matters news items contact: alma.stewart@live-magazines.co.uk
SPA HOTEL WINS AGAIN
The Spa Hotel at Ribby Hall Village has been awarded the title of Best Day Spa in the UK for the third consecutive year by the prestigious Good Spa Guide. This accolade is particularly special as it was determined by the highest number of public votes, a testament to the exceptional experiences provided by The Spa Hotel. The awards ceremony, hosted by Spa Life UK, took place last month in Hampshire when spas from across the UK gathered to celebrate excellence within the industry. The sun was shining, adding to the evening’s glamour as industry leaders and guests enjoyed the festivities.
FREE FAMILY EVENTS
Preston Markets are hosting a range of free, family events on Saturdays throughout August. In the city centre, beneath Preston’s iconic, Victorian canopy, a series of events will take place for the whole family to enjoy. From scientific exploration of the senses to a fantastic bubble show, back by popular demand, dance with the Funguys, see the world from a different perspective and pick up free gifts distributed by some very interesting characters. To find out about event times, traders, opening times and more, visit prestonmarkets.co.uk and follow @prestonmarkets on Instagram, Facebook and X.
WANDER YOUR WAY TO WANDERLAND
Presented by Wyre Council, Wanderland promises to be a fun-filled day for the whole family to enjoy on Saturday 27th July at Cottam Hall Playing Fields, Poulton-le-Fylde. Celebrate Hey Duggee’s 10th birthday and dance along to your favourite songs. Enjoy a live stage performance from CBeebies favourite, Mr Bloom and join in with the fantastic live karaoke party with Massaoke. Tickets are available now for just £10 each. There’s something for every age and every taste at Wanderland and everything inside the festival is included in your ticket price, except food and drink. Visit: wyre.gov.uk/wanderland for more information.
COMMUNITY PROJECTS FUND
Fylde Council has allocated another £20,000 in financial support to local voluntary, community and faith groups during the financial year 2023/24, across two tiers of grant for a wide range of projects. The Community Projects Fund supports local schemes which promote or enhance the environment, encourage cohesive communities or promote the economy. Each year the council allocates £20,000 to the pot as part of the annual budget setting process. If you represent a local voluntary, community or faith group who could benefit from the Community Projects Fund, visit: new.fylde.gov.uk
CONSTRUCTION UNDERWAY
Preston Youth Zone’s development group, consisting of young people from across Preston, revealed the winning name of the new venue to be The Vault. The announcement came ahead of a special groundbreaking ceremony at the Youth Zone’s town centre site. The event, hosted by the charity’s chair Guy Topping and CEO Tim Jacques, launched an exciting new phase for the Youth Zone. Contractors Triton Construction will now begin work building the multi-million-pound centre, which will open next autumn. Using a giant spade, supplied by Barton Grange Garden Centre, young people cut the first hole in the ground.
DELIVERING DYNAMISM
Paul Agnew takes the new Porsche Panamera for a spin to discover, unsurprisingly, it is a car full of surprises, style and substance.
Photography: Peter Austin
Some of us drive out of necessity, others drive for a living, some of us drive for the sheer joy, others for the sport, the thrills and the spills. But all of us – assuming that we share a mutual love of great motor vehicles and the open road – would surely relish the chance to drive the best car out there.
The car that delivers maximum in terms of fizz, sophistication and excitement. And so, may I proudly present the new Porsche Panamera.
The Panamera is defined on the worldwide web as a ‘four-door sports car of elegance with high-performance capabilities and advanced technological features.’
And while that assessment is pretty much on the money, it simply doesn’t do justice to what is a truly incredible machine.
The third-model generation is just out of the blocks – a fresh look at a globally recognised, luxury saloon with the emphasis on dynamism, comfort and sport.
I was handed the keys to the Panamera 4, an all-wheel drive, petrol powerhouse capable of eye-watering performance.
YOU DON’T EVEN HAVE TO BE IN THE CAR DURING AUTOMATIC PARKING AS THE WHOLE PARKING PROCESS CAN BE MONITORED FROM YOUR SMARTPHONE
Engineering modifications have boosted pressure, fuel injection flow rate and ignition timing so that the 2.9-litre V6 turbo engine can now generate 500Nm of torque.
It races from 0-62mph in just five seconds and has a top speed of 167mph. No messing about here folks, these are serious statistics.
The new profile is enhanced by an updated operating concept and numerous innovative technologies. These include the new Porsche Active Ride Suspension, which combines a significantly higher level of comfort with the sporty driving characteristics that are so typical of Porsche.
The integration of a digital ecosystem into the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system offers extra ways to interact and there is an astonishing range of driver assistance systems.
The new Panamera has a superior feel, much of it down to the state-of-the-art adaptive air suspension with Porsche Active Suspension Management. The suspension noticeably dampens impacts from damaged road surfaces, while also ensuring more body stability. It absorbs bumps and potholes almost completely and actually leans inwards into corners like a motorcycle. It also pulls the front down when accelerating and the rear when decelerating. When stationary, the Porsche Active Ride Suspension system lifts the body to a comfortable height for ease of entry and exit. This latest variant retains the characteristics and proportions of the model line and is a big unit by any standards – close on 17 feet long and six feet wide.
I WAS HANDED THE KEYS TO THE PANAMERA 4, AN ALL-WHEEL DRIVE PETROL POWERHOUSE CAPABLE OF EYE-WATERING PERFORMANCE
Once inside, the Porsche Driver Experience cockpit concept strikes an ideal balance between digital and analogue control elements and everything is designed to make driving not just a pleasure, but as easy and enjoyable as possible.
The selector lever is directly to the right of the steering wheel and the mode control for the Normal, Sport and Sport Plus driving programmes as well as the assistance control stalks, are also directly accessible. Never do you have to take your eyes off the road to activate changes and make choices and a passenger display closely integrates your ‘co-driver’ into the driving experience. The 10.9-inch screen displays vehicle performance data on request. It also allows operation of the infotainment system and supports video streaming while the car is running. To avoid any possible chance of distraction, the passenger display cannot be seen from the driver’s seat.
As for overall vehicle equipment, the list is packed with high-end features, most of
them included as standard.
Apologies but I can’t find room to mention them all so here are a few highlights that include a panoramic roof system, 21-inch SportDesign wheels, Porsche crests on the headrests, comfort seats (14-way electric) with memory package, heated GT Sports steering wheel, BOSE Surround Sound, acoustically insulated laminated privacy glass, head-up display, soft-close doors, surround view with Active Parking Support, Lane Change Assist, Matrix LED headlights, exterior mirrors and side window trims in high-gloss black, sports tailpipes in dark bronze and so the list goes on.
The Active Speed Assistant interacts with traffic sign recognition. If the system is active, the Panamera will not automatically drive faster than the appropriate speed limit. The Porsche InnoDrive including adaptive cruise control also features active lane guidance and junction assist. A swerve assistant is now also part of the range of functions.
If that’s not enough, you don’t even have to be in the car during automatic parking as the whole parking process can be monitored from your smartphone.
In summary, the new Porsche Panamera is a collection of highlights and surprises, of style, sport and substance.
Is it the best car out there? It’s definitely right up there so why not go along and judge for yourself. n
Porsche Centre Preston Centenary House Watery Lane, Preston PR2 1QJ 01772 911911 porschepreston.co.uk
@PorscheCentrePreston
@Porsche_Preston
@Porsche_Preston
ELECTRIFYING PERFORMANCE
The new all-electric MINI Cooper still has the famous silhouette, but it has a fresh face that is ultra-modern, ensuring the ultimate driving pleasure, writes Paul Agnew. Photography: Peter Austin
Here’s one: name your top three best-known car brands? Hang on, let’s simplify matters, just give me the other two – aside from MINI.
That’s right, MINI is a gimme when it comes to listing the most popular cars of all time. It is, in short, a global motoring icon.
Dating back to the days when most of us were a significant distance away from a driving licence, the MINI is the instantly recognisable small(ish) car with the giant reputation.
A car which has consistently left the rest green with envy. Talking of green, perhaps this is an opportune moment to welcome the new, all-electric MINI Cooper.
When I say ‘new’, I refer to a futuristic car perfect for the electric era, but one that is essentially and immediately identifiable.
Still with the famous silhouette and go-kart feel (the drive, particularly the cornering, is something to behold) but
maybe a touch more refined and certainly jazzed up.
This is the fifth generation, ultra-modern and super simplistic, embodying maximum driving pleasure and minimum footprint and there is more innovative technology on board than ever before.
Available in two performance options, the E variant offers 184hp and up to 190 miles of electric driving, where the increased performance of the SE offers an electrifying 218hp and up to 250 miles of range.
On the subject of range, you’ll be happy to
hear that the charging time from 10 per cent to 80 per cent is just half-an-hour.
From any angle it’s a MINI, but one with a fresh face and an emphasis on sustainability. The chrome has gone, replaced by secondary aluminium, to give the vehicle an even more vibrant silver exterior.
There are three trim levels – Classic, Exclusive and Sport – all combining emission-free mobility with an electric driving performance.
THE MINI COOPER MAY HAVE ORIGINS IN THE DISTANT PAST, BUT IT IS MORE THAN CAPABLE OF SATISFYING ALL OF TODAY’S MOTORING NEEDS
The Classic is a nod to the past and classic for a reason. Particularly eye-catching in Sunnyside Yellow paintwork (optional) you get 16” alloy wheels (17” optional) and superb upholstery in a perforated houndstooth pattern.
The Exclusive features even more premium features, with modern and sophisticated detail. Paint choices include Blazing Blue and British Racing Green IV (17/18” alloy
wheels) and a striking silver grille surround. Inside, expect sport seats in either blue or beige and a recycled fabric knitted dashboard to match.
The Sport gives all of the above and more –a gutsy performer just itching to go with a design to emphasise its sportiness. You can combine black high-gloss features with Legend Grey paintwork, a Chili Red contrast roof and JCW 18” alloy wheels. Race-inspired sport seats are upholstered in knitted JCW black material with red contrast accents and stitching.
You can’t go wrong, so let’s take a closer look at connectivity and technology.
Combining the world-first 240mm circular OLED touch and voice operated display screen (surely one of the most impressive features of any car anywhere) with the latest and most advanced MINI Operating System 9, you are presented with just about everything you could possibly need in terms of intuitive operation and personalisation options.
YOU’LL BE HAPPY TO HEAR THAT THE CHARGING
TIME FROM 10 PER CENT TO 80 PER CENT IS JUST HALF-AN-HOUR
The optional MINI Connected Package allows access to an ever-growing range of practical features and entertaining apps, including gaming, music and video streaming.
Want to know the traffic or weather conditions? Want to find charging stations along your route? Or, maybe you just fancy a chit-chat? The MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant is Android and Apple compatible and able to assist via a push-to-talk button on the steering wheel, or by saying the greeting: “Hey MINI”.
Spice up your acoustics with the optional Harman Kardon surround sound system with 10 loudspeakers and, of course, tap into music streaming apps like Spotify and Amazon Music.
Peace can be important too and this little gem is nothing if not quiet. It’s also equipped with a raft of assistance systems to provide true peace of mind on the road.
Parking Assistant helps you manoeuvre smoothly into spaces, alongside the Rear View Camera, which is activated with the reverse gear. With Driving Assistant, additional functions include Dynamic Cruise Control and Blind Spot Detection to name just two.
Less is more with MINI, but the new MINI-malist design provides all the essentials, characterised by that wonderful OLED display and patterned, recycled textiles.
The MINI Cooper may have origins in the distant past, but it is more than capable of satisfying all of today’s motoring needs. n
Preston
Channel Way
Preston PR2 2YA 01772 761234
bowkerprestonmini.co.uk
@BowkerMINI
@bowker_mini
@BowkerMINI
Bowker
OUT ON THE OPEN ROAD…
Cycling isn’t the niche sport of the past – but a range of equipment and disciplines has swelled participation levels and that can only be good for health, writes Ben Hall
Whether commuting or for sport, cycling is fully accessible to a wide range of people whether that be on a hand bike, trike, road, mountain, hybrid or gravel – and all with e-bike options.
Road cycling’s showpiece event is unquestionably the Tour de France, but the Tour de Guild Wheel in and around Preston is just as fun and far more accessible. If the cycling bug bites hard, then a bikepacking coast to coast adventure or a trip to Mallorca to challenge yourself against the pros might interest you.
While most of us observe our surroundings
from a car, cycling offers an alternative view. We have an amazing area to explore here in the North West of England and it is a treat to discover what even the most informed of local residents have missed.
THE SHEER BREADTH OF OUR SPORT MEANS THAT REGARDLESS OF SOMEONE’S BACKGROUND THEY CAN ENJOY TAKING PART
British Cycling
Route planning is key. The perfect scenario is beautiful scenery on freshly tarmacked,
quiet roads. The Sunday cyclist is hoping for few cars, and with some luck, even fewer potholes. Head out to the Trough of Bowland for a hilly hiatus or seek solitude following the dunes of the Fylde coast. Wherever your journey takes you, just be sure to factor in a coffee and a piece of cake.
When it comes to picking up the pace, there is a new language to acquaint yourself with. Aerodynamics, watts and carbon fibre might seem more relevant to our fighter-jet local engineering heritage, but once immersed in this world there are marginal gains to be had everywhere for that king or queen of the hill climbs. They do say that no matter how good you are, it doesn’t get any easier, it only gets faster.
The countryside views can be splendid, but that first glimpse in the mirror of yourself in lycra does take some adjusting to. The wind chill, British weather and distances covered
can make clothing decisions difficult, but a good-looking peloton is a fast peloton. The strange hats with short peaks and strange coloured tops hark back to the 80s while more modern attire, matching bike and outfit, must be worth a tenth of a second!
Cycling history is rich. The 80s weren’t the peak of fashion, but they were the pinnacle for Greg LeMond as he created his legacy within the sport by winning the Tour de France, having been shot by his brother-in-law two years prior. The ‘Pirate’ Marco Pantani with his earing and headscarf, Laura Trott’s Olympic gold medals and Mark Cavendish’s record-breaking 35th stage win in the Tour this year, all provide tales of heroism in the sport.
This is all well and good for the pros, but Sunday cyclists have their own achievements. A personal best here and a furthest ride there, the challenge varies
for all. Some will need a top-of-the-range bike with wind resistance reduced to a minimum and the lightest of alloys to gain weight savings, unnoticeable to the less initiated. For others getting out there is an achievement in itself and speed is not where the enjoyment is, but in a group.
IT DOESN’T GET ANY EASIER, IT ONLY GETS FASTER
There is one subject that is tricky and strangely, it is eating. Should you use gels, water, carbohydrates, isotonic drinks or should it be a protein bar? The Sunday cyclist needs a nutrition degree to keep up with supplements and an economics background to support the cost of all these aids – not to mention the equipment!
Speed is fun and kids love bikes to be fast.
As children we were chased by parents having just taken off the stabilisers, ensuring we stayed upright as we wobbled further away. Kids build jumps and ramps and parents dare not look as thrills are sought. We are told to slow down, to be careful and always wear a helmet. But speed is still fun, and the Sunday cyclist knows this.
A tough hill climb is full of sweat, aches, pain and thoughts of stopping – or worse, giving up. But on the other side, a glance down at the speed clock and nothing but the thinnest of clothing to prevent the gravel rash, just heightens the senses.
Cycling is also a great group activity. You can talk and cycle. You have a common topic to discuss the positives and negatives. Any group activity should be prescribed as part of a well-rounded healthy lifestyle, so ‘chapeau’ to all those happy cyclists! n
Photography: Pierre Jean Durieu/Shutterstock.com
for its charming atmosphere, historic architecture and commitment to providing well-kept real ales. The pub has become a beloved hub in the community, drawing both locals and visitors with its warm hospitality and excellent offerings.
A Robinsons pub – family brewers since 1838 – you’ll find the famous Old Tom and Dizzy Blonde ales along with regular guest real ales and more recently, a host of ciders.
The pub, a Grade II listed property, dates back to Victorian times and is known for its unique architecture, including three entrance doors from three different streets –a one-of-a-kind feature in the country. Inside, you’ll find an expressive tiled bar servery, mosaic floors and a side corridor leading to additional seating and an upstairs room and bar, full to the brim with interesting artefacts.
Dan Taylor, Robinsons’ Business Partner at the Black Horse, has been at the helm of the pub for the past eight years.
He said: “We are incredibly proud to receive such a note-worthy CAMRA award. After being our local CAMRA Pub of the Year
VICTORIAN HOSTELRY CONTINUES TO WOW
Since 1898, the Black Horse in Preston city centre has been providing patrons with a wide selection of drinks within its unique, Grade II listed building. Now the team are hoping to clinch a national award
When it comes to recognition, the Black Horse in Preston is doing rather well with their latest award –Lancashire Pub of the Year – just one in a long line of accolades.
This respected CAMRA award follows on from their win as CAMRA Central Lancashire Pub of the Year, which they’ve been awarded for two consecutive years. This marks a significant achievement for both the Black Horse, and for the city, where it’s believed to be the first pub in Preston to receive this honour since 2001.
Sitting proudly behind the beautiful tiled circular bar, you will find certificates
including the George Lee Memorial Trophy 2019/20 and a Certificate of Excellence for the most highly rated pubs in the CAMRA branch 2022, plus the West Pennines Regional Cider Pub of the Year 2024. This pub is definitely on the must-visit map!
Located on the corner or Friargate and Orchard Street, the Black Horse is renowned
for two years running, achieving the award for the whole of Lancashire is incredible. This recognition reflects the hard work of our entire team, and the wonderful support from our customers. We try really hard to create a welcoming environment where everyone can enjoy quality drinks and great company and this award is a fantastic validation of our efforts.”
ATTITUDES HAVE CHANGED
OVER THE YEARS. REAL ALE PUBS ARE NO LONGER ‘OLD MEN’S’ PUBS
Alongside the Black Horse, Dan also runs another incredible Robinsons pub, the Three Mariners in Lancaster.
What is really exciting is that the Lancashire award sees the pub enter into the next round of the competition for the West Pennine Pub of the Year and if successful, the Black Horse may become a national finalist: “Since the competition began in 1988, no pub from Preston has ever got this far,” Dan continued. “Only one has won the
national award from Lancashire.”
Pubs in the competition are judged on their atmosphere, decor, welcome, service, inclusivity, overall impression, but most importantly – the quality of live beer, real cider and perry.
Within the Robinsons 250 or so venues, the Black Horse has also won the brewery’s Gold Award in Beer Excellence for the fourth year. With many bars and pubs under threat of late, the Black Horse is standing firm: “Attitudes have changed over the years. Real ale pubs are no longer ‘old men’s’ pubs. What we know as beer as changed – now you can enjoy a host of flavours and colours. Many women enjoy real ales and ciders and we do offer a host of gins and another 70 sprits along with more traditional beers, stout and lagers, so there is something for everyone.”
WHETHER YOU ARE A HISTORY BUFF, REAL ALE FAN OR JUST WANT TO RELAX IN A PUB FULL TO THE BRIM WITH CHARACTER, YOU CAN’T GO WRONG AT THE BLACK HORSE
There are two real fires located in the two snugs either side of the bar, perfect for when the nights get colder and a definite stop following some Christmas shopping. At the weekends, guests can enjoy open mic nights on Friday nights and live music on Saturday nights in what was once known as Peter’s Bar on the first floor. At one time, the pub would have stood just along from the Royal Hippodrome theatre which was demolished in 1959.
Dan concluded: “We have a great team here at the Black Horse. Managers Harry and Beth have been with us for a long time and we make sure members of staff are right for the vibe of the pub – friendly, welcoming and chatty and we offer a very safe space to enjoy. We are all very proud of the pub and we are proud of being part of Robinsons. We are committed to quality and choice, so if you haven’t called in yet, please pop in and try some of our remarkable drinks and see why we have won our awards and of course, we hope to win more.”
So, whether you are a history buff, real ale fan or just want to relax in a pub full to the brim with character, you can’t go wrong at the Black Horse. Cheers! n
robinsonsbrewery.com /pubs/black-horse-preston
PERFECT SUMMER SCONES
Chef Michael Vanheste at Greendale Teahouse & Rooms shares his delicious scone recipe, the perfect addition to your summer picnics
Using strong bread flour a nd a ‘chaffing’ technique, these scones are light fluffy, and easy for home cooks to perfect. Enjoy a taste of Greendale at home. Happy baking!
Ingredients and equipment
275g strong white flour
2 tsp baking powder (14g)
50g caster sugar
50g unsalted butter, very cold
80g double cream
80g whole milk
100g sultanas or raisins 1 egg, beaten
Round cutter (fluted or plain), rolling pin, sieve, bowl, baking tray and parchment paper.
Method
1. Prepare the dry ingredients
Double sieve the flour and baking powder into a large bowl.
Add the caster sugar and stir well.
2. Incorporate the butter
Dice the very cold butter into small cubes. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs. Ensure there are no large lumps of butter remaining.
3. Combine wet ingredients
Make a well in the centre of the flour mixture.
Pour in the double cream and whole milk. Add the sultanas or raisins.
Use a spatula to gently mix until most of the flour is incorporated. Do not knead the dough.
4. Form the dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
With well-floured hands, fold the dough in half, then turn it 90 degrees and fold again. Repeat this process to distribute moisture and add air.
5. Rest the dough
Wrap the dough in cling film and chill in the fridge for 10 minutes.
6. Shape the scones
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to a thickness of about 1.5 cm.
Dip a circular pastry cutter (either 45mm or 55mm) into flour, tapping off any excess.
Cut out scones and place them on a baking tray lined with baking parchment.
7. Egg wash and chill
Lightly brush the tops of the scones with beaten egg, being careful not to let it drip down the sides.
Place the tray in the fridge for a further 20 minutes.
8. Bake the scones
Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan assisted).
After chilling, brush the scones with another layer of beaten egg.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and fully baked through.
9. Cool the scones
Allow the scones to rest on the baking tray for a few minutes.
Transfer them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
To serve, first have a debate about whether jam or cream should be spread on top and then do it this way – cut the scones in half, spread a little strawberry jam on each half, and finish with a generous dollop of real clotted cream. Enjoy! n greendaleteahouse.co.uk
NEW GENERAL MANAGER
Thomas Ferrante, who has worked in luxury hotels throughout the world, has been appointed General Manager at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House
Thomas Ferrante joins Gilpin Hotel & Lake House from Seren, the management company behind Grove of Narberth, where he held the position of Group Director of Operations.
With more than 20 years’ experience in the hospitality industry, Thomas is a firm believer that the key to success within any hospitality business is a team of happy people, which is why he was drawn to Gilpin.
Located in the beautiful Lake District, just four miles from Windermere, the AA 5 Red Star family-owned and run Gilpin Hotel & Lake House is made up of two hotels on two separate estates, just over a mile away from each other. Both are elegant, relaxing havens of luxury offering the ultimate in wellness experiences and are the perfect locations for special occasions. Home to two restaurants, the Michelin-starred SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel with chef Ollie Bridgwater at the helm, and the contemporary pan-Asian Gilpin Spice.
Thomas’ first experience of the world of hospitality was in the kitchen, but he soon swapped his chef whites for front of house attire, quickly working his way up to Food & Beverage Operations Manager at The Berkeley Hotel, where he stayed for seven years, before relocating to Malta to take on the role of Hotel Manager at The Phoenicia. His most
recent roles saw him return to the UK, this time to Pembrokeshire in Wales, with five years leading the team at Grove of Narberth in the position of General Manager and then Hotel Director, before overseeing Seren’s portfolio of hotels and restaurants as Group Director of Operations.
GILPIN CAN FURTHER ESTABLISH ITSELF AS BEING A BEACON FOR QUALITY AND A CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE FOR HOSPITALITY IN NOT ONLY THE LAKE DISTRICT, BUT THE COUNTRY AS A WHOLE
Commenting on his appointment as Gilpin’s GM, Thomas says: “The owners of Gilpin Hotel & Lake House have a strong ethos. They have built the property from a set of family values which really resonated with me, particularly the guest-focused nature and development of people.
“I am thrilled to have joined a fantastic team. Gilpin is a truly special property, located in one of the most picturesque destinations in the world. It has a really unique spirit, it’s both a ‘special occasion’ place with a real buzz, yet at the same time from the moment
you arrive you feel right at home – simply put, you just want to spend time here. The food scene in the Lake District, of which Gilpin is a key player, is outstanding too and attracts visitors from far and wide, there is a lot of opportunity to grow.
“I am passionate about people and working with the teams to help them reach their full potential. I believe that by continuing to nurture its people, Gilpin can further establish itself as being a beacon for quality and a centre of excellence for hospitality in not only the Lake District, but the country as a whole. The opportunity to join Gilpin and help the team be the very best they can be is an honour.”
Barney and Zoë Cunliffe, owners of Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, added: “Thomas brings with him a wealth of experience of managing luxury hotels in the UK and abroad, predominately with family-owned, award-winning 5 Red Star hotels similar to ours, with a very strong cuisine emphasis. He has a proven track record and is commercially driven, as well as having a strong belief in team and guest recognition, both of which are at the heart of Gilpin.
“We’ve known the owners of the Grove at Narberth for years through POB, and they described Thomas as ‘a genuine lovely people person who was instrumental in bringing our team together’. We are absolutely delighted that he has joined our team, who are all very special to us.” n
thegilpin.co.uk
#LOVEANDLAUGHTER
MAGICAL MINI BREAKS IN THE LAKE DISTRICT
One of our favourite things that our guests say, is that when they think of Gilpin, they think of love and laughter – ours, and theirs, which is such a lovely compliment. At the heart of Gilpin is a passionate family and team, dedicated to creating lasting memories for our guests, who return time and again for romance, celebrations and escapes. For us, hospitality starts with a very warm welcome and ends with a friendly goodbye, with extraordinary service, exquisite décor, beautiful spa experiences, and stunning culinary experiences in our restaurants – the Michelin Starred SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel and the Michelin listed pan Asian Gilpin Spice. CELEBRATE • SPA • DINE • STAY
CULTURAL
RENAISSANCE
Preston has received a huge boost in its cultural life with the reintroduction of a city symphony orchestra after 50 years, as publicity manager Alex Roe MBE, explains
Up until the 1970s, the Preston Symphony Orchestra was at the centre of entertainment in the city. It played concerts in both Preston and Chorley and also accompanied the Preston Opera Company (POC) in its annual productions. The POC is still thriving today and has recently performed the Tales of Hoffman and is now accompanied by its own orchestra purely brought together for the shows under the direction of local conductor Helen Harrison.
It is believed that the conductor of the Preston Symphony Orchestra before it folded was Frank Salter – he moved out of the area and due to this, the orchestra ceased to exist. The loss of such a group meant that the city received a huge blow to its cultural life. There has not been an orchestra in Preston since the late 1970s. Frank, who died in 2017 aged 77, had founded the Preston Opera Company in 1965. He also gave lessons to the now famous Alfie Boe from Fleetwood.
Most towns and cities in England have an orchestra, whether it be professional
or amateur, so Preston has been lagging behind and the people of the city have long been astounded that they did not have their own orchestra.
THE FIRST MEETING WAS HELD AND IT BECAME OBVIOUS THAT LOCAL MUSICIANS WERE VERY KEEN TO RESTART THIS ONCE-WONDERFUL ORCHESTRA
This year, local musician Matthew Price, a trombone player, decided to do something about it. He posted the idea of a new orchestra on Facebook and more than 40 musicians answered his call. Matthew then approached Lancashire County Council for funding. They suggested that he created a Crowdfunding appeal on Facebook to raise £4400. This was successful and the County Council then matched the amount – a huge sign that there was a need for an orchestra in the city. The first meeting was held and it became
obvious that local musicians were very keen to restart this once-wonderful orchestra. Players from all parts of Lancashire including Morecambe, Burnley and the surrounding area of Preston have now come together to form the group. This means that the standard is extremely high, so much so that members of the audience have been convinced it was a professional orchestra.
Auditions were held for the post of conductor and assistant, which were subsequently given to Marco Guidici and John Chapman, respectively. Marco, although Italian, now lives with his wife and family in Lancaster. John hails from Chorley. Marco conducts the Salford Symphony Orchestra as well as
now become a set partnership and they are looking to the future with the PSO. It is worthy of saying that a good friendship has developed between the two parties.
THE FUTURE IS LOOKING BRIGHT FOR PRESTON CULTURE
The orchestra was then approached by Preston’s Arts Association which invited the musicians to play at the Preston Arts Festival which is held every September in the city.
The next concert for the Preston Symphony Orchestra is on Sunday 22nd September at St Leonard’s Church in Penwortham. Tickets
Ambleside Choral Society. John, a French horn player, is a leading light in the British Police Symphony Orchestra, which was founded by Alexander Roe MBE in 1989, who is now the principal viola in the newly-formed Preston Symphony Orchestra.
After the auditions for the conductor, two concerts were planned for 2024. The first concert was held at Ashton Methodist Church on 9th June and this sold out within three weeks of the release of the tickets. The concert was attended by the Mayor of Preston, Councillor Phil Crowe and the Vice Chair of Lancashire County Council, Alf Clemson who both concluded that the concert was a huge success and vowed to support the orchestra in the future. The evening ended with a standing ovation from the audience which went on for several minutes. The Preston Symphony Orchestra was back on the cultural map of the city.
Rumours were beginning to swirl round the city and Porsche Centre Preston contacted the orchestra and offered their assistance with publicity and advertising. This has
were released on 10th June and two days later over half of the seats were sold.
So, what about the future? At present the PSO has booked a concert on the 8th December, again at St Leonard’s and two for 2025 at Chorley Town Hall. The committee are working extremely hard led by its Chairman Matthew Price.
The PSO have also been approached by local choirs to celebrate their special concerts and other groups are looking into how they can use this amazing resource.
Testament to the reception the city is giving to its newly-formed orchestra, the future is looking bright for Preston culture.
The PSO is in the process of registering as a charity which will help enormously with its finances. They have also set up a patronage scheme where members receive certain benefits during the year. n
For more information on patronage please email: alexanderroe@hotmail.co.uk.
prestonsymphonyorchestra.co.uk
GIVING HISTORIC WOMEN A VOICE…
Author,
Though fascinated by history, Beverley didn’t choose the option for GCSE as the period was too modern for her interests. After leaving school she went to work for an insurance firm where she stayed for 20 years:
“I didn’t go to university at 18 but I did go on to study an English honours degree and then a Masters’ with the Open University. I wrote my dissertation on the Bronte sisters which sparked my interest in writing about historical women.”
ON A LOCAL LEVEL, I’D LOVE TO SEE MORE ABOUT EDITH RIGBY IN THE CITY. WE HAVE THE BLUE PLAQUE ON HER HOUSE IN WINCKLEY SQUARE
Beverley Adams, gave up her job to become a full-time writer with a passion for telling the stories of
women
in
history,
Isome important
who have often been overlooked
t is a passion for history that sees author Beverley Adams working on her seventh book in five years and it was the global pandemic that gave her the opportunity to take this big risk.
The former St Mary’s Catholic High School and Runshaw College student found her passion for history when her grandmother, keeping her occupied in the summer holidays,
gave her a book to read on Mary, Queen of Scots. And she hasn’t looked back.
“The books of history writer Jean Plaidy became my favourites,” Beverley explained.
“I became fascinated on how people lived 500 years ago – who married who. It’s being interested in human nature I suppose. I can study a family tree for hours. Maybe it’s just being nosy!”
When the pandemic forced a lockdown and home working, Beverley found that the time saved in travelling to and from work could be used to write instead. She also saved the money usually used for commuting: “I had got very interested in Preston suffragette Edith Rigby and felt her story needed to be told. Everyone has heard of Pankhurst but what Edith did was just as important. I had commented to a work colleague that I should write a book about her and my colleague said:
‘Then why don’t you?’ I then put a tweet/post out on X to ask how I could get a book published and someone contacted me from a publishing company and it went from there. I am now published by Pen and Sword and my publishing editor is really easy to work with and approved my ideas the majority of the time. I’ve been very lucky.”
Beverley’s first book Edith Rigby: The Rebel Suffragette was published in 2021. Having
saved some money, Beverley gave up her full-time job in 2022 and has been a full-time author ever since. She currently has three books on sale – the Edith Rigby book, Ada Lovelace, The World’s First Computer Programmer, published in March 2023 and The Forgotten Tudor Royal, Margaret Douglas, Grandmother to King James I and VI, published August 2023. This year, readers can look forward to The Tragic Life of Lady Jane Grey, released in August and the story of Elizabeth of York to be released in October. Beverley is currently writing her sixth book on the heirs of Elizabeth I and is researching her seventh on Elizabeth Stuart which should be available to buy in 2026. Beverley continued: “I made a conscious decision to write about women who had achieved a lot in their lifetime that history hadn’t remembered.
For example, not many people know the grandmother of James I of England, VI Scotland, but she was incredibly influential. Had she been beheaded, she would have been written down in history, but the fact that she died in her bed consigned her to the footnotes of history. I want to make sure these women’s voices are heard. They become part of my life – I live with them every day.”
And it is through her passion for history that Beverley discovers other fascinating women, researching one and discovering another: “I came across Ada Lovelace through my degree studies of Lord Byron and I kept coming across her name. I started to discover how feisty she was, so ambitious. I loved her so much, I just had to write about her. I often find myself going down
rabbit holes and discovering more and more fascinating women.”
I WANT TO MAKE SURE THESE WOMEN’S VOICES ARE HEARD. THEY BECOME PART OF MY LIFE – I LIVE WITH THEM EVERY DAY
When it comes to research, Beverley spends hours tracking down files and artefacts: “It was harder during lockdown with so many places shut,” she said. “But luckily a lot of archives are digitalised. Researching Edith was easier as she lived so close but in the research phase, I could be visiting museums and archives all over the place looking at artefacts and piecing information together.”
Beverely is also a freelance editor and proofreader. She has also written a short story
for the Lancashire Stories Anthology that was run by Lancashire Libraries and has been hired as a historical consultant for an up-and-coming game about Ada Lovelace. She plans to keep on writing though she would like to go down the historic novel route: “I’m looking at creative writing courses and developing my imagination to write fiction. I’d also love to see these women’s stories told on a bigger scale, like Horrible Histories for the forgotten women. On a local level, I’d love to see more about Edith Rigby in the city. We have the Blue Plaque on her house in Winckley Square and a new road named after her but maybe there could also be a statue of her – everyone should know about her story, especially as she was from Preston.” n
pen-and-sword.co.uk/Beverley-Adams/a/4203
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Explore the charm of Ribble Valley with its stunning scenery, vibrant community and convenient access to supermarkets, schools, restaurants and independent shops and enjoy seamless commutes via the nearby M6 and M55, with Preston just 23 minutes away. With only a few homes remaining at this beautifully designed development, this is your last chance to make your move to a thriving new community.
Incentives worth up to £20,000 * on selected plots, get in touch with our homes advisor to find out more and book your visit to Stonebridge Fold today.
CHANGE YOUR AGRICULTURAL BUILDING TO HOUSING
Zara Moon – RIBA Chartered Architect and Planning Consultant explains the recent changes to Class Q permitted development which could mean greater freedom when converting your agricultural building
The changes to Class Q took effect from May 2024, and are in relation to the scale, the amount of development, extensions, the 10-year limit and the extent of development permitted. If your agricultural building did not meet the previous Class Q limitations, you may now be in luck!
If your building existed on or before 24th July 2023, and it wasn’t constructed under permitted development, and you have not already taken advantage of other permitted development rights, you can now apply for Class Q! Previously you would have needed to wait for 10 years.
Also, if your building existed on or before 24th July 2023 and was at that time part of an agricultural unit, yet since that date it
has ceased to be part of the agricultural unit, and has not been used for anything else, or has been left empty for 10 years – you can also apply for Class Q.
You can convert 1000sqm / 10,763sqft and create up to 10 new dwellings within the same agricultural unit. The units of which can be split across different buildings until you reach your limit.
You are able to include a 4m rear single-storey extension! This may be a game-changer because many local authorities do not allow you to extend a building at the point of conversion, even through a full application. The extension needs to be included at the point of conversion, located to the rear and needs to be on an area of hard-standing which existed on 24th July 2023.
A prior approval application will be required to consider issues such as highway impacts, noise, flood risk, design, neighbour amenity and location. They will also consider if the existing location would be impractical or undesirable for a dwelling.
Your prior approval application covers work required to convert the building. You can also partly demolish and install external walls which now potentially allows for barns which are open to the elements on one or more sides.
There are a number of limitations – the scale of each dwelling is restricted to 150sqm / 1614sqft, the building must have an existing suitable access road and the new dwellings must meet the minimum space standards and adequate natural light in all habitable rooms.
You cannot benefit from Class Q if your building is listed, within a listed building’s curtilage, within a Conservation Area or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or similar sensitive sites.
If the limitations of Class Q are too restrictive for your requirements, Class Q may just be your first step in achieving approval. On difficult sensitive sites, permitted development rights can be used to achieve approval for the principle of housing on the site. Once approval has been granted it represents a fall-back position of which housing can now be developed. You can then pursue a full planning application as your scheme has overcome the issue of whether housing is acceptable. n
If you have an agricultural building you would like to repurpose for a new use – get in touch with your site address and we will take it from there.
Windmill Lane, Brindle, Chorley
Asking Price £900,000
Abbotsway, Penwortham, Preston OIEO £1,000,000
A ‘must-view’ property to fully appreciate the extent and quality of accommodation on offer. This stunning four bedroom property is in a setting that offers the much sought-after rural lifestyle that our buyers crave - and allows for excellent access to regional motorways making it a perfect property for those who need to commute.
A hidden gem, positioned in a large plot in Penwortham, this home lies in stunning manicured, well-stocked gardens and grounds.
Providing over 4,400 ft2 of accommodation to include a superb open-plan kitchen, multiple reception rooms and four bedrooms allowing the best of modern living to blend with the traditional.
Ghants Lane, Hambleton, Poulton le Fylde
Asking Price £3,495,000
Woodplumpton Lane, Broughton, Preston
Asking Price £685,000
An incredible country residence that has been tastefully improved by the current vendors with beautiful cabinetry to give a luxurious and opulent feel.
It includes a living kitchen and 5 further reception rooms, 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms with space for entertaining both inside and out. The stunning principal residence adjoins further annex accommodation and extensive garaging. With comprehensive equestrian facilities and beautifully presented gardens and grounds the property sits in a plot of 11 acres, OTA.
A stunning four bedroom detached home, recently modernised and renovated throughout and yet retaining its wonderful charm and character befitting the age of the property.
Situated in the popular and desirable village of Broughton this home is sure to delight, providing a warm and inviting feel: couple this with the magnificent rear private garden it truly is not an opportunity not to be missed.
ON SCREEN
Check out the latest films being shown at The Flower Bowl Entertainment Centre in Preston. For more information visit: theflowerbowl.uk
DEADPOOL AND WOLVERINE
Release Date: 25th July
Director: Shawn Levy
Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, Morena Baccarin, Brianna Hildebrand and Jennifer Garner
Certificate: TBC
Featuring Ryan Reynolds’ Wade Wilson/Deadpool and Hugh Jackman’s Logan/Wolverine, this film brings together two iconic characters from the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Wolverine is recovering from his injuries when he crosses paths with the loudmouth Deadpool. Despite their differences, the reluctant duo team up in a bid to defeat a common enemy – including The Crown’s Emma Corrin, who plays a major villain. Perhaps most anticipated though is Dogpool, a canine variant of Deadpool! n
BLUR: TO THE END
Release Date: 19th July
Director: Toby L
Starring: Damon Albarn, Graham Coxon, Alex James and Dave Rowntree
Certificate: 15
This new feature-length documentary depicts the extraordinary and emotional return of blur, captured across a year in which the band made their first record in eight years, the critically acclaimed number one album The Ballad of Darren. The revealing film follows the unique relationship of the four friends and bandmates of more than three decades as they come together to record 10 new songs ahead of their sold-out, first ever shows at London’s Wembley Stadium in 2023. A real treat for fans of the Britpop Monkees. n
TWISTERS
Release Date: 19th July
Director: Lee Isaac Chung
Starring: Daisy Edgar-Jones, Glen Powell and Anthony Ramos
Certificate: PG 13
Daisy Edgar-Jones stars as Kate Cooper, a former storm chaser haunted by a devastating encounter with a tornado during her college years. She is now on safe ground studying storm patterns on screens in New York but is lured back to the open plains by her friend Javi (Anthony Ramos) to test a groundbreaking new tracking system. There she meets Tyler (Glen Powell), the reckless social media star who thrives on posting his dangerous adventures. As storm season intensifies, Kate, Tyler and the competing teams find themselves fighting for their lives in the paths of multiple storm systems. n
BORDERLANDS
Release Date: 9th August
Director: Eli Roth
Starring: Cate Blanchett, Kevin Hart, Jack Black and Jamie Lee Curtis
Certificate: 15
Based on the popular video game, this all-action film is set on the abandoned planet of Pandora with a hunt to find a mysterious relic. Cate Blanchett is Lilith, an infamous bounty hunter who returns to Pandora on a mission to find the missing daughter of Atlas. She forms a ragtag team of misfits – seasoned mercenary Roland (Kevin Hart), feral pre-teen Tiny Tina (Ariana Greenblatt), musclebound Krieg (Florian Munteanu), oddball scientist Tannis (Jamie Lee Curtis) and wiseass robot Claptrap (Jack Black). A bit like Guardians of the Galaxy, these unlikely heroes must battle to save the universe. n
MakeTlevel placements workforyou
MakeTlevel placements workforyou
Could
Could your business benefit from an extra pair of hands?
Becoming a T level placement employer with B&FC could be the answer. We can set up 315-hour placements in any of the following sectors:
Could your business benefit from an extra pair of hands? Becoming a T level placement employer with B&FC could be the answer. We can set up 315-hour placements in any of the following
And because our T level programmes are industry-focused, our students are equipped with the skills to make a valuable contribution to their placement employer right from the start. Here are just some of the benefits
And because our T level programmes are industry-focused, our students are equipped with the skills to make a valuable contribution to their placement employer right from the start. Here are just some of the benefits
Extra resource for specific projects
Extra resource for specific projects
Increased
Increased capacity
Increased capacity
The opportunity to nurture and develop future talent
A
The opportunity to nurture and develop future talent
A cost-effective recruitment route for entry level jobs and apprenticeships
A cost-effective recruitment route for entry level jobs and apprenticeships
New ideas, industry-leading skills and best practice
New ideas, industry-leading skills and best practice
Upskilling opportunity for existing staff to mentor a young person
Upskilling opportunity for existing staff to mentor a young person
Nextsteps
Nextsteps
Nextsteps
If
about placement opportunities at B&FC, please contact our Placements Team at placements@blackpool.ac.uk
If you would like to offer a placement or want to know more about placement opportunities at B&FC, please contact our Placements Team at placements@blackpool.ac.uk
