Live Preston & Fylde Issue 99 May 2021 by Live_Magazines

YOUR PREMIER GUIDE

THE MUSIC MAKERS AND THE DREAMERS OF DREAMS THE BLACKPOOL SCHOOL OF ARTS THE COMEBACK IS ALWAYS STRONGER THAN THE SETBACK FROM NIGHTCLUB TO A RESTAURANT WITH A TOUCH OF CLASS HOPING TO TAKE BACK OUR BEAUTIFUL GAME LOCAL FOOTBALL AWAY FROM BIG MONEY

TO LUXURY LIVING • ISSUE 99

#humancomfort

Summer sale, here comes the sun. DOUBLE DISCOUNT SUMMER SALE Don’t miss out on our Special offers. Be inspired by our new collection of sofas, furnishings and accessories to transform your home. Come and discover our Summer sale. Interest Free Credit available. Natuzzi Editions - Preston 227 Brook Street Preston, PR1 7ND - T 01772 880082. For further details, please call or email our dedicated team at preston@natuzzieditions.co.uk

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CONTENTS

F E AT U R E S 12 REMEMBERING THE CREATIVE INDUSTRIES The need for creativity in the world 66 REVOLUTIONISING THE WAITING GAME FOR PATIENTS A new day case hospital is to open in Buckshaw Village

78 ZOOM FACE Many of us are feeling the effects of zoom face as we spend hours in virtual meetings 114 PRESTON ENTREPRENEUR TAKING OUR CITY TO WESTMINSTER Rob Binns appointed chair of the Lancashire division of Downtown Business 128 HOPING TO TAKE BACK OUR BEAUTIFUL GAME A football season like no other 130 THE COMEBACK IS ALWAYS STRONGER Husband and wife team launch a high-end restaurant after the pandemic killed nightclubs 138 CITY LIVING A through the key hole look at Preston’s most luxurious neighbourhood

REGULARS 8 EDITOR’S LETTER 15 HOMES INSIDE OUT 50 FASHION 58 HEALTH & BEAUTY 70 LIFESTYLE 106 EDUCATION 113 BUSINESS 118 MOTORS 128 SPORT 130 FOOD & DRINK

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136 WHAT’S ON 138 PROPERTY

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LIVE MAGAZINES Chairman: Simon Smith Managing Director: Tedd Walmsley Company Secretary: Elizabeth Walmsley Editor: Helen Sanderson Graphic Designers: Nick Dittrich and Rob Walmsley Operations Manager: Kate Hyde Production Manager: James Britton Photography: Sue Blackhurst, Roger Moore and Kirsten Platt Sales Account Managers: Jane Hughes 07875 696 928 Michele Preston 07872 461 561 Editorial Contributors: Paul Agnew, Sandra Hinchliffe, Meena Macdonald, Samantha Martin, Francesca Saunders and Sarah Varley Live Magazines Limited Office 2, The Old Bakery Green Street Lytham FY8 5LG T: 01772 366 002 live@live-magazines.co.uk www.live-magazines.co.uk LIVE PRESTON & FYLDE magazine is hand delivered to selected households and businesses in Barton, Bretherton, Broughton, Buckshaw Village, Cottam, Croston, Eaves, Elswick, Garstang, Great Eccleston, Freckleton, Fulwood, Hutton, Kirkham, Little Eccleston, Longton, Lytham, Much Hoole, New Longton, Newton with Scales, Penwortham, Warton, Wesham, Whittle-Le-Woods, and Wrea Green. Live Magazines Limited cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts or photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Live Magazines Ltd takes no responsibility for omissions and errors. We reserve the right to publish and credit any letters. All rights reserved. An annual subscription is available at £17.50, to cover postage and packaging. For details of subscriptions please email subscriptions@live-magazines.co.uk. For advertising please contact us on 01772 366 002.

A SPRINGBOARD TO A LIFE OF PURPOSE Stonyhurst College incorporating Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall is an exceptional co-educational Catholic boarding and day school for pupils aged 3-18 years with full, weekly and flexi boarding options available. Our unique and nurturing environment gives pupils the opportunity to become all that they can be. Stonyhurst Admissions Tel: 01254 827073 or email: admissions@stonyhurst.ac.uk Stonyhurst, Clitheroe, Lancashire BB7 9PZ www.stonyhurst.ac.uk/open-days

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Magazines Editor If you are a similar age to me then the number 99 will usually transport you to the song ‘99 Red Balloons’ by Nenah. A song about how the hopes and dreams of the German people were lost in the Second World War. The red balloon became a symbol of hope when Banksy portrayed it in his image known globally as ‘the girl and the red balloon’. This image was first created in London in 2002 on the walls under Waterloo Bridge at London’s Southbank, with the words ‘There is always hope’. As a nation we haven’t faced as many challenges as this past year since the Second World War. It has cost us dearly in lives and businesses yet as I set to work on this issue of the magazine I was inspired that there was so much ‘hope’ for the future in Preston & Fylde. It’s truly wonderful that life is returning to some sort of normality; that the roadmap is progressing and that business are able to trade again. As we head to print on issue 99, Lancashire is celebrating that over one million of us have had our vaccines. This is a fabulous milestone. We can only hope that the vaccine and the roadmap will lead to normality once more in our lives. Huge congratulations to all involved with the vaccine programme. Hope is the theme for this issue of the magazine. For the front cover I worked with the fantastic photographer Sue Blackhurst, to create our own version of the Banksy image of hope right here in Preston. This is my first issue as editor and my hope for you is that you get the opportunity to sit down with this bumper issue, to relax and enjoy the read. Best Helen Helen Sanderson Editor

Live Preston & Fylde Photography: Sue Blackhurst susieqphotography.com Model: Miss B Sanderson Walker Shot on location in Preston City Centre

YOUR PREMIER GUIDE

TO LUXURY LIVING • ISSUE 99

LANCASHIRE’S PREMIER GUIDE TO LUXURY LIVING

I S S U E 12 5

I S S U E 12 4

THE MUSIC MAKERS AND THE DREAMERS OF DREAMS THE BLACKPOOL SCHOOL OF ARTS HERE COME THE BOYS MEN’S ISSUE

HERE COMES SUMMER FRESH AIR, FUN & FESTIVALS GISBURNE PARK POP-UP FULL LINE-UP

THE FUTURE IS RETRO CLUB LEGEND PAUL TAYLOR

RAGAMUFFINS ON THE ROAD FRONTMAN DAVID JOHN JAGGS

FOOTBALL FOCUS CLITHEROE FC

TEE-TIME AT CLITHEROE DIRECTOR OF GOLF WAYNE JOHNSON

UNIQUE COLLABORATION ROLLS-ROYCE & HERMÈS

Part of the Live Magazines portfolio, including Live Ribble Valley

THE COMEBACK IS ALWAYS STRONGER THAN THE SETBACK FROM NIGHTCLUB TO A RESTAURANT WITH A TOUCH OF CLASS HOPING TO TAKE BACK OUR BEAUTIFUL GAME LOCAL FOOTBALL AWAY FROM BIG MONEY

Model: Miss A Sanderson Walker

TO LUXURY LIVING • ISSUE 99

BROWSHOLME

Lancashire’s oldest historic family home E S T 1 3 81

Your perfect short break could be closer than you think!

BIJOU lodg e s

Make a Bijou Lodge at Browsholme Hall your next great escape. Just 5 miles from Clitheroe and nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Forest of Bowland is Lancashire’s oldest historic family home. This fascinating Tudor Hall built in 1507, has been home to the Parker family for 14 generations. If you’ve been dreaming of a much needed change of scenery, then this is it. 10 luxury lodges are hidden away in a picturesque Woodland Glade for the perfect, safe escape. Complete with en-suite shower room, seating area, kitchenette and deck, they are self-contained and ideal for a unique short break with walks and cycling from the doorstep. All lodges have their own firepit to sit around, toasting your toes and sipping hot chocolate, or perhaps something a little stronger, reflecting on the day’s adventures. You are invited to enjoy all that Browsholme, Bowland and the Ribble Valley has to offer. With something for everyone - you can even bring the dog! For more details visit browsholme.com or call on 01254 827160.

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A second Kitchen Design Centre kitchen …20 years after the first! Chris and Andrew were so delighted with their Kitchen Design Centre kitchen that when it came to replacing it twenty years later, they turned to Kitchen Design Centre again. Living in Thornton-in-Craven near Skipton, it was only a 20-minute drive to the Barrowford showroom where they were impressed with the fantastic showroom and the wide range of displays. They met with designer Suzanne Ryan and loved her ideas. Chris liked a traditional display in the showroom but Andrew wanted something more modern. They considered a sleek, modern, handleless look but after speaking to Suzanne and looking at a range of styles in the showroom, they decided a modern shaker style kitchen would suit their house perfectly. Despite their first visit happening just before the first national Coronavirus lockdown, Suzanne and Kitchen Design Centre delivered the kitchen with minimal hold ups and everything from design to installation continued in a safe way. Chris and Andrew are delighted with the finished space and Kitchen Design Centre, “We’re so glad we turned to Kitchen Design Centre again. We loved the first kitchen and love this one even more. The service from Suzanne down to the fitters was first class and we can’t thank them enough for ensuring everything still went ahead despite lockdown.”

Designer Suzanne Ryan says, “It’s always lovely to have customers return to us after so many years as it’s really nice to know they’re happy with the quality and service we offer. Chris and Andrew were easy to work with and the finished kitchen sits perfectly in their stunning home.”

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

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T E G R O F T O N ’S T E L THE MUSIC MAKERS AND THE DREAMERS OF DREAMS…

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As the pandemic hit in March 2020 and the world shut down, the artists, the designers, the writers, the musicians and all the many other creative industries, were told to ‘stay at home’ writes Helen Sanderson

e clapped for the carers, and gave thanks for those deemed ‘essential’ workers whilst the artists stayed at home. With time to think, people found new creative outlets and renewed their love of the arts. To quote, the now famous, Kitty O’Meara poem about this time… “And the people stayed home. And read books, and listened, and rested, and exercised, and made art, and played games, and learned new ways of being, and were still. And listened more deeply. Some meditated, some prayed, some danced. Some met their shadows. And the people began to think differently.”

WHAT WE ARE NOW SEEING THAT OUT OF THESE DARK TIMES HAS COME A GREATER UNDERSTANDING THAT MUSIC, ART, POETRY, WRITING, DANCING AND DESIGN, ARE WHAT MAKES US HUMAN What we are now seeing that out of these dark times has come a greater understanding that music, art, poetry, writing, dancing and design, are what makes us human. Speaking to Mark Johnstone, technical iIlustrator and higher education Curriculum Manager at The Blackpool School of Arts he explained: “Before the pandemic hit, one in eight people in this country were employed in the Arts and the industry contributed over £10.8billion a year to the UK economy. This success has been built upon the UK’s world leading arts education and its entrepreneurial graduates. 65 per cent of employees in the creative sector have a degree, evidencing the value of the universities and schools of art. An arts education develops high level creative skills along with complex problem solving and critical thinking, areas that the World Economic Forum identified as the top three skills for future jobs.” Despite the Government providing emergency funding for the cultural sector

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across the country through the Culture Recovery Fund they have continued to in turn to appear to devalue the arts industry by reducing funding for Higher Education. This will limit the availability and accessibility of places on arts courses and result in fewer courses being offered. Rachelle Panagarry, designer, professional illustrator and lecturer at The Blackpool School of Arts said: “Arts education is fundamental to the lives of the next generation of artists and designers. As professionals in the arts, we use the process of going to university as a way to learn, network, grow and experience the arts as a career. Artists and designers learn about art so they can see and engage with the world in a new and exciting way. They collaborate with scientists, engineers, new technologies, the NHS. Art positively contributes to wider society and not just the economy, it has the power to bring communities together, which we have all seen throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. Art is essential to the growth of this country.” Blackpool School of Arts was established in 1937 and at first taught RAF artists how to develop and create maps. In 1949 as part of Blackpool and The Fylde College it offered degree courses that were validated by Lancaster University. Since then it’s gone on to provide world renowned teaching across the whole creative spectrum. Mark added: “Today the Blackpool School of Arts prides itself on teaching

divergent thinking practical skills and digital competencies for the future. A creative community of practice, it embraces the potential for cross-curricular working whilst retaining the specialisms of discrete disciplines. We embrace project and problem-based learning, the ethos of the School rests on three pillars – Community; Connectivity and Process.”

ART IS ESSENTIAL TO THE GROWTH OF THIS COUNTRY Under a new leader, Annie Kerfoot, the Head of School, formerly Head of Creative and Digital at Blackburn College – is already getting a great sense of how Blackpool School of Arts changes lives. Anne said of the school: “It’s a dream to be working with a team that’s already developed an outstanding reputation in arts education. There’s a strong sense of creative community at Blackpool School of Arts and I hope to expand opportunities for individuals, groups and employers with different options to study with us over the coming years. My ambition is to ensure that Blackpool School of Arts makes a significant contribution to the rebuilding of the creative economy post pandemic.” Blackpool School of Arts offers a range of programmes which have been designed to give the next generation of creatives,

the skills and intellectual abilities to operate in the exciting and fast growing Creative Industries. The campus on Palatine Road in the resort is a beautiful art deco building housing an extensive range of studio spaces, theatre space, workshops and equipment, creating a vibrant and creative learning environment designed to encourage collaborative working across the different disciplines. Rachelle explained: “The staff are all creative practitioners with expertise in a wide range of fields such as film making, illustration, acting, singing, music, dance, fine art, graphic design, fashion, photography and costume. I personally spent twenty years as an artist in illustration and mixed-media and I have illustrated a number of best selling children books. “The Creative Community of Practice which we operate within at The School of Arts means that staff and students work together to experiment, take risks with our work and produce professional, industrystandard exhibitions and shows. Our students have gone on to work as designers, art directors,artists,actors,West End performers, teachers, costumiers, arts administrators, illustrators and much more.” n For a full list of opportunities offered at Blackpool School of Arts go to: blackpool.ac.uk/school-of-arts follow on Instagram: @blackpool.school.of.arts

SONANCE COVER THE GROUND WITH SOUND Sonance is recognised around the world for high performance sound and innovative design flair. It uses state-of-the-art materials and cutting-edge test software to generate wide audio coverage at very low distortion for the most discreet home applications - even at high volumes. As many independent listeners have confirmed you’ll hear a quality, consistency and depth of sound that has to be experienced to be believed. For every all-weather application and project challenge, you’ll love the answer from Sonance. Consistently voted No.1 outdoor speaker supplier.

• In-Wall • On-Wall • In-Ground • On-Ground Bernard Dickinson, 13 Beech Drive, Fulwood, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 3NB 01772 862 266 bernarddickinson.co.uk andrew@bernarddickinson.co.uk

COTSWOLD ECO TUB WINCHCOMBE EIGHT-PERSON MODEL £4645 Cotswold Eco Tubs are wood-fired hot tubs, with a dry bubble system, LED lights and a heat-up time of approximately 1.5 hours and low running costs. Firewood Supplies, Acewell Units, Simpson St, Hapton, BB12 7LJ 01282 778350 firewoodsupplies.co.uk

CLASSICAL HEAD OUTDOOR PLANTER £95 audenza.com

MONTANA INDOOR/OUTDOOR EGG CHAIR £495 ellajames.co.uk

EXTREME LOUNGING OUTDOOR BED BEAN BAG IN AQUA £249 cuckooland.com

AL FRESCO ACCESSORIES Look forward to relaxing in the outdoors with these stylish accessories that will look perfect on a garden terrace or beautiful lawn TULUM OUTDOOR BEAN BAG IN TAUPE £206 lujo.com

LARGE ALDSWORTH OUTDOOR STORAGE BOX £250 gardentrading.co.uk

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

RAVELLO FIVE/SIX SEATER HOT TUB FROM £7495 ribblevalleyspas.co.uk

MULTICOLOURED OUTDOOR LED CUBE TABLE/STOOL £265 limelace.co.uk

OUTDOOR ELITE LED CUBE WATER FEATURE IN GRANITE £349.99 charltonisland.com

BEOLIT 20 BLUETOOTH SPEAKER £450 With a longer lasting battery, integrated smartphone charging and powerful portable sound, Bang & Olufsen’s Beolit 20 is the fourth generation of a modern classic in wireless speaker design. bernarddickinson.co.uk

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Hepplestone Fine Art Limited, Heskin Hall Shopping Village, Wood Lane, Heskin, Chorley, Lancashire, PR7 5PA. 01257 451121 sales@hepplestonefineart.com www.hepplestonefineart.com Visit the Gallery - we are 5 minutes from Junction 27 off the M6. Open 7 days with Ample Free Parking or Buy On-line with FREE UK Mainland Delivery. BESPOKE FRAMING SERVICE ALSO AVAILABLE

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the Chaïm Soutine exhibition held at the Courtauld Gallery, London, in 2018. To see Soutine’s portraits of cooks, waiters and bellboys in the flesh was an amazing experience an exhibition I will never forget.”

Today this passion burns even more intensely – when in conversation with Brad you always get a clear sense of this – he just loves what he does. Brad is modestly proud that he has achieved his lifelong dream of running his own art gallery, made possible by sheer determination, ongoing hard work and unwavering support and encouragement from his wife. Carnes Fine Art continues to grow and has evolved greatly over the last 10 years. The gallery now boasts an eclectic mix of

GLOBAL APPEAL art works and sculptures from the artists

A Lancashire art gallery that is celebrating a successful decade in they collaborate with directly and the older business, has a worldwide client base thanks to the enthusiasm and collectible works they source from private collections from around the world – French, expertise of owner Bradley Carnes

elebrating 10 years in business, Bradley Carnes is the director and owner of Carnes Fine Art, a cosy and inviting art gallery located at Cedar Farm in the beautiful rural setting of Mawdesley. Having successfully established firm roots in the region, Carnes Fine Art sells original artwork and sculptures by some of the UK’s leading artists and collectable works by world-distinguished artists. As a young boy Bradley had a deep fascination with art. In the mid-1980s he would often walk by and gaze into the window of the old Unicorn Gallery

located next to the Rex cinema in Wilmslow admiring their collection of traditional paintings. He took a keen interest in French and British artists from early to mid 20th

I FEEL INCREDIBLY FORTUNATE TO WORK AND REPRESENT SUCH TALENTED ARTISTS HERE AT THE GALLERY IN LANCASHIRE century. Reading countless art reference books and visiting exhibitions has fuelled his passion for art. “One exhibition stands out for me,

modern British, wildlife and landscape works are all deeply ingrained into the core of the business. “I am delighted to work directly with some of the North West’s finest artists including Michael Demain, Philip Gerrard, Harry Brioche, Sandie Henderson, Carl Longworth, Simon Whitfield, Clare Shaughnessy and Ben Ark,” says Bradley. “They all have very different styles and are at different stages of their professional careers. However, their works come together wonderfully in the gallery, offering our clients a broad variety of style and subject – there is definitely something for everyone. Sandie, Michael and Harry all have works included in major art exhibitions this year

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including the Royal Society of British Artists Annual Exhibition and the David Shepherd Wildlife Artist of the Year competition. I feel incredibly fortunate to work and represent such talented artists here at the gallery in Lancashire.” Carnes Fine Art prides itself on being an independent gallery offering high quality original art that appeals to a broad client base, from affordable to expensive: “The business model was always going to be a little bit different and loyal to my heart. I did not want to follow the theme of main high street galleries but curate my own path, mixing traditional and modern styles, to be individual and to stay open-minded to new ideas, embracing opportunities to grow and evolve the gallery. “Due to increased demand and sales during lockdown we have decided to take on extra display space in the main building at Cedar Farm. We will hold concurrent exhibitions with a full schedule in place with our artists running throughout the year.” Carnes Fine Art cleverly blends traditional and contemporary artwork, as Bradley explains: “Our clients find the gallery a breath of fresh air and something quite different when they walk in – a mix of styles on display that have a real positive impact. On a personal level I admire various forms of artwork but very much admire the creativity and visual appearance of Impressionism, the loose style with vibrant colours can give a piece vitality, a life and a sense of being. “I also love an artist’s technical creativity,

we’ve all been there when you stand back from a piece of art and say, ‘Is that really a painting or is it a photograph?’ I hear this quite a lot in the gallery which is testament to the calibre of artists we represent.

non-UK clients saying they would love to come over to the gallery in person. “I remain ever grateful for our continued support from our clients throughout the last 10 years and during the unprecedented pandemic. We always strive to give the very best service and offer free UK delivery on all artwork. Where possible I like to personally deliver artwork to clients, to ensure they are completely satisfied and happy with their new piece. “I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone well and if you are reading this article and you have never been to the gallery before then please do pop in, you are promised a warm welcome.” n

WE HAVE A STRONG CLIENT BASE LOCAL TO THE GALLERY AND GLOBALLY FROM OUR ONLINE PRESENCE “We have a strong client base local to the gallery and globally from our online presence. Clients that have never been able to visit us in Mawdesley enjoy keeping up to date with our online collection and our monthly newsletter. We often receive emails from

Carnes Fine Art Cedar Farm, The Design Shed Back Lane, Mawdesley L40 3SY 01704 822533 info@carnesfineart.com carnesfineart.com

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LIFESTYLE TRENDS The past year has seen us mulling over home decor ideas which make us feel safe, comfortable and happy, those which give the impression of space, connect us with nature and enable households to live together harmoniously

hese are not so much design trends, but rather lifestyle trends which have taken hold as an instinctive response to the way our lives have had to alter – and they are likely to be around for many years to come.

COTTAGECORE

Cottagecore is not a new concept, but since lockdown, it seems more relevant than ever. It’s like a warm comfort blanket that embraces the home, and is a global phenomenon, uniting young and old, from all walks of life. It’s a romantic reflection of rural life and a less complex world of a bygone era. In a nutshell the trend uses colours, patterns and details your granny might well have adopted for her home!

The essence of cottagecore is whimsical and nostalgic, but with quirky and green elements that reflect our need for beauty, sustainability and security. With more time on our hands, we’re taking up traditional skills and crafts including flower arranging, gardening, baking and pottery. Cottagecore design can work in any home, but if yours has interesting features, such as exposed beams, original floorboards or panelled walls (also a growing trend in its own right) these elements give your interior intrinsic cottagecore value.

JAPANDI

Japandi is a minimalist trend that’s all about clean lines and no clutter. With many homes at full capacity over the last 12 months, a light and spacious feel to our interiors is certainly an appealing vibe many of us have been craving. This trend is a fusion of east meets west, in which Scandinavian elements are teamed with the design traditions of Japan. Japandi is the perfect trend for those who relish a bit of order – the organisational and functional element of the look creates a calming feel with its pared-back aesthetic,

natural materials and muted shades, which make it a versatile trend for use in any room in your home. Natural motifs and textures also play a key role. Stoneware and ceramics particularly symbolise this look, usually in organic shapes and colours, with a homemade vibe. Colours are muted in hues of grey and white, with plain walls, although wallpaper in earthy colours incorporating natural prints also embodies the trend.

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homesinsideout the air, filtering out pollutants and releasing oxygen. Choose either large plants for a bold feature, or a throng of smaller ones. Green walls in earthy, organic hues such as olive and sage are very on trend. Science shows that just looking at something green can slow the heart rate and reduce stress, so from a mental and a physical wellbeing standpoint, biophilic design won’t be disappearing from our homes any time soon.

BIOPHILIC DESIGN

Biophilia describes design and architecture that focuses on our innate human connection with nature. It’s all about bringing the outdoors in and taking the indoors out. Outdoor space has become a key part of any home as we spend more time enjoying nature. We are also demanding more of our gardens throughout all the seasons. Our outdoor areas are extensions of our living space, providing us with places where we can relax and switch off, with the possibility of remaining social. Flexible soft seating, outdoor kitchens and heating provision, along with some form of allweather shelter, will all ensure we can use our outside space all year round.

those which will make us feel positive and good about ourselves. Sometimes all we need to boost our mood are little reminders of what makes us happy. Surrounding ourselves with things that make us smile can have a huge impact on how we feel – whether it’s a gallery of wall art, treasured trinkets or a windowsill of herbs and succulents. There is something comforting about arranging selected treasures, reviewing them and adding new elements into the mix. Depending on what you’re displaying, floating shelves can be an ideal way of showing off your accessories, and a thoughtfully curated shelf makes for the model Zoom backdrop!

FLEXIBLE SPACES

For many of us, working from home is looking like a permanent fixture, even if it’s on a part-time basis. Living and working in the same space isn’t easy. Multi-purpose furniture is ideal for creating versatile spaces. Fit a wall-bed in your guest bedroom and a desk with bespoke storage and you’ve created two rooms in one. As you’d expect, this year’s garden trends are reflecting those indoors. In the same way that today’s homes now have to multitask, so too do our gardens. Garden offices and studios have become immensely popular, further reflecting the importance of our outdoor spaces.

At Hartleys we’re good at creating bespoke furniture which will achieve the versatility you’re looking for in your home. Our multipurpose designs will optimise your interiors, such as our wall-beds and fitted window seats, creating more space for living and storage provision, and ultimately making your home a more organised and harmonious environment to live in. n

HAPPINESS ON DISPLAY Caring for lush houseplants keeps us in touch with nature. Greenery is said to promote feelings of calm, as well as purify

Spending so much time at home has made us survey our living spaces and create new areas for new activities. Likewise, it’s made us examine the aesthetics of our homes and consider the updates we’d like to make –

If you’d like to speak to us about your fitted furniture plans, we’d love to hear from you on 01756 700471 or via our website at: hartleysbedrooms.co.uk

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LIVING LARGE OUTDOORS

will determine how you best make use of your outside space. Next think about what you want the space for. A place for entertaining or eating, or a place for relaxing? If you have the space, then you can divide the area up by creating different levels or sections. Do you want to be able to use the area in all weathers? Then you may need to look at shelter and heating; with pagodas or canopy’s and patio heaters, fire pits or a chiminea. If it’s an area for eating, then ensure the ground is flat and solid, as wobbly tables aren’t fun to eat from. Invest in sturdy weather proof garden furniture. Rattan is considered the best long term garden furniture to leave outside. Wooden garden furniture should be good

Outdoor living spaces are all the rage. And, it’s clear why. Creating CONNECTING YOUR an outdoor living area is a clever way to enhance both your indoor SPACE CAN AMPLIFY YOUR and outdoor garden space. Whether you have a large patio to play LIFESTYLE AND YOU’LL WONDER with, a tiny balcony or even just a courtyard garden, there is so WHY YOU’D NEVER THOUGHT much you can do to blend a little of the indoors, out!

aking whatever space you do have as stylish, comfortable and inviting as your living room doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive.You just need to be selective, a little creative and in no time at all, you’ll have merged your indoor living room with your outdoor

ABOUT DOING IT BEFORE

room perfectly. Connecting your space can amplify your lifestyle and you’ll wonder why you’d never thought about doing it before. Before you start making any plans, take a good look at your garden – its position, orientation and outlook – where does the sun rise and where do the winds hit? This

all year round – especially if it’s a hard wood such as oak, ash or beech and regularly treated. Most furniture also comes with suitable cushions to make the sitting experience more comfortable. Plants in pots make great additions to outdoor living areas and take little looking after. Consider the amount of sunshine

that the plant will receive each day. The containers for plants today, come in all sorts of sizes shapes and colours and can make great additions to an outdoor living area with out a plant in them. And finally if you have the space why not create a mini bar? Some might say that an outdoor living area is not complete without one. n

Hey Siri mow the lawn! It’s Saturday morning, you’ve had a tough week at work and typically - it’s raining again! Is it any surprise you don’t feel like mowing the lawn? You skipped doing it last week though, so now unfortunately you don’t really have a choice, otherwise it’s going to be a really big job next weekend. Wouldn’t it be great if you could just say “Siri Mow the lawn” then sit back and enjoy another coffee? AutoMowIt are Lancashire’s approved Ambrogio robot mowers distributor - it’s a newly launched business for Tyler Stevenson who owns the Blackburn & West Lancashire Greenthumb lawn care treatment franchises.

Are robot mowers just a fad?

So why did he start AutoMowIt?

I can provide free site assessments to determine suitability and advise on the variety of features across the range, so clients can make an informed choice. Ambrogio robot mowers can be fully automatic, programmed to mow your lawn on a schedule that suits you. Alternatively they can be instructed via the Ambrogio App on your phone from anywhere in the world - even if that’s just your bed!”

“We have a large lawn at home, with a busy business and a young family I just didn’t have the time to mow my lawn as often as I advised my Greenthumb customers. But, I obviously want my own lawn to be in tip top condition. So I started looking at robot mowers. I did my research, checking out product reviews on line and quickly realised Ambrogio were unparalleled. I was extremely impressed with the product range so my mind was made up. My installer had to travel from Lincolnshire so seeing a gap in the market, I decided to qualify as an approved installer and dealership, serving Lancashire.

Ambrogio have been manufacturing for over 25 years. But to the UK market it feels like robot mowers are a bit new, and there’s a lot of uncertainty in consumers minds. The benefits are clear and the technology is always improving, so they are definitely not just a fad! How does someone choose the right mower?

AutoMowIt are happy to offer a free assessment of your lawn, virtual via FaceTime or in person to discuss suitability and features of the various models. Call 0800 1522123.

The easier way to a perfect lawn

Talk to Tyler today…

• Advice, supply, install and maintenance • Authorised distributors for Ambrogio • Free remote lawn analysis and quote

Call 0800 15 22 123 Visit www.automowit.co.uk Find us on Facebook @automowit

GARDEN GLAM

Lutec Poppy. All in One Solar Lighting Solution complete with Bluetooth speaker for playing music and phone based App Control. LED 8 watt with 1 x 4400mAh 3.7 volt battery 3000K Warm White. £231.95 James Kok Lighting 13 Cable Court Pittman Way Fulwood Preston PR2 9YW 01772 977677 www.kok.lighting

Cover the ground with sound, with Sonance garden speakers £POA Bernard Dickinson 13 Beech Drive Fulwood Preston PR2 3NB 01772 862266 bernarddickinson.co.uk

The construction of this orangery is simply beautiful with more brick/stone work than a standard conservatory and smaller glazed roof area. Finished with 2 sets of bi-fold doors giving more light, With the structure complimenting the original property , perfect for them summer days and entertaining £POA Lee Kelly UPVC 364 Blackpool Road Preston PR2 3AA 01772 788550 leekellyupvc.com

I VI R E AT YO IUORNHAOLMIED FEO IRNESVP ARS WTO I NENHANCE T E R H I BYOUR E R N AT ION HOME

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

Beautiful designs and affordable prices KITCHENS AND BEDROOMS

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

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FIRED UP…

be compliant with a new legal requirement to burn only wood supplied by Woodsure Ready to Burn companies. Having recently diversified, Firewood Supplies & Stoves is now a recognised retailer of quality wood-burning stove brands, including a selection of outdoor stoves made from Corten steel that naturally rusts to create a characterful stove that sits well within a garden landscape.

which is one of the quietest on the market, and the LED lighting, which means only a low 240v power supply is required. Regardless of the weather, your Cotswold Eco Tub is built to last, as only the highest quality wood and fibreglass is used in the construction.

Imagine a summer garden get together, warmed by the glow of an outdoor wood-burning stove and the fun and relaxation of an eco-friendly, wood-fired hot tub with atmospheric lighting – just perfect!

COMPARED WITH ELECTRIC TUBS THE RUNNING COSTS OF AN ECO-TUB ARE EXTREMELY LOW

“We have had a huge amount of interest in the Cotswold Eco Tubs,” adds Lucy, who works alongside Lauren Bracewell, whose father founded the business. Supplying first class kiln dried firewood and all the accessories needed for wood burning, Firewood Supplies & Stoves are Woodsure Ready to Burn certified, which means that on 1st May this year, they will

The outdoor stoves feature air wash glass technology, and because the fire is enclosed the fuel lasts longer. They also feature a two-metre flue, which draws any smoke upwards giving them a huge advantage over fire pits – and one model has optional modifications that means it can be easily moved to any part of your garden! n If you would like to view a wood-fired Cotswold Eco Tub or one of the efficient outdoor woodburning stoves call in to the Firewood Supplies & Stoves showroom

Photography: Kirsten Platt

amily business Firewood Supplies & Stoves initially forged a reputation for top quality firewood however, in recent times it has been brought well and truly into the 21st century with a collection of super-efficient indoor and outdoor stoves along with eco-friendly wood-fired hot tubs that can be used all year around. Firewood Supplies & Stoves are the Lancashire and Greater Manchester dealer for prestigious Cotswold Eco Tubs, a brand that promises to soothe body and mind – adding a touch of luxury with the captivating crackling and sweet aroma of firewood. The eco-tubs can be used in all seasons and in summertime they take just one-anda-half hours to heat up – and you’re ready to go! “Compared with electric tubs the running costs of an eco-tub are extremely low,” says Lucy Webbe, who is part of the team at Firewood Supplies & Stoves. “Also, the tubs have excellent heat retention so if you replace the lid after use, you can contain much of the heat – meaning re-heating your eco tub is so much quicker.” The wood-fired boiler means that electricity is only required for the air bubble system,

Firewood Supplies & Stoves Acewell Units, Simpson Street Hapton, Burnley BB12 7LJ 01282 778350 firewoodsupplies.co.uk

GET SET FOR SUMMER Looking forward to an outdoor gathering of friends and family? Get your garden guest-ready with top class equipment from Mowerpower, which is renowned for friendly service and honest advice. Photography: Roger Moore

ith restrictions lifted on outdoor gatherings and summer just around the corner, it’s an exciting time for everyone who has spent the last year yearning for the time when we can bring all our family and friends together. Your garden will be a vital part of your living space over the next few months, especially with holidays being limited, so now’s the time to get it in tip-top condition so that you can relax and enjoy any celebrations you may be planning over the summer months. With over 70 years’ experience, Mowerpower can really help you achieve this with their wide range of first-class

garden machinery and accessories. A fourthgeneration business, Mowerpower will provide all the equipment you need to get your garden looking perfect! Owned and run by the Webster family, Mowerpower also has a number-one reputation for customer service and good honest advice.

NOW’S THE TIME TO GET YOUR GARDEN IN TIP-TOP CONDITION SO THAT YOU CAN RELAX AND ENJOY ANY CELEBRATIONS YOU MAY BE PLANNING Originally established in St Anne’s by Bill Webster and his father back in 1948, the business is now run by Bill’s grandson, David, alongside his parents Richard and Lynn. “We pride ourselves on our knowledgeable customer service and many of our customers come to us on recommendation,” explains David.

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“We are anticipating a very busy summer – over the past few months people have been considering how they can improve their outdoor space, and with restrictions being lifted on the number of people gathering outside, gardens are more important than ever to homeowners.” With a showroom at Brock near Garstang, Mowerpower has an impressive range of stock that customers are encouraged to examine in order to get a feel for which machine is best for them and the outcome they want to achieve in their garden.

WE ARE ANTICIPATING A VERY BUSY SUMMER – OVER THE PAST YEAR PEOPLE HAVE BEEN CONSIDERING HOW THEY CAN IMPROVE THEIR OUTDOOR SPACE The showroom is packed with every kind of quality garden machine – there are huge gleaming ride-on mowers from Countax,Stihl, Mountfield and other leading manufacturers as well as powered push mowers in electric, cordless and petrol options. The recentlyintroduced Harrier 41 and 48 are both now available as eco-friendly battery powered models too. There are even robotic mowers that can be simply programmed – key in which area of lawn needs mowing, the day and time and let technology do the rest! With approved retailer status with all the top manufacturers of garden equipment including Hayter, ATCO, Toro, Stiga, Westwood and Ariens, Mowerpower also stocks a huge range of hand-held machinery including hedge cutters, strimmers, chainsaws, leaf blowers and pressure washers from leading manufacturers including Stihl and Echo – just about everything to get your

garden in pristine condition ready for your guests! Expert David and his team are always on hand to advise on which machine will do the job – they get to know their customers and their gardens, the size of lawn, if customers want a standard cut or stripes, what sort of trees and shrubbery features in their gardens and what machinery is needed to keep it looking neat and tidy – at Mowerpower the customer is at the core of the business. Alongside unrivalled product knowledge, customer service at Mowerpower extends far beyond a sale as the team also has an impeccable reputation for its repairs and servicing provision that ensures all machinery is kept running smoothly for many years. With a team of five full-time mechanics across both workshops, who use state-of-the-

art diagnostic equipment, any problems can usually be resolved and repaired within days. Whatever you require, you’re guaranteed to get good advice at Mowerpower, along with sound product knowledge and excellent after-sales service: “It’s all about helping our customers make the right choice so they can create and maintain a garden that will look fantastic throughout the year.” n

Mowerpower Garstang Road, Brock, Preston PR3 0RB 01995 643999 01253 722065 mowerpower.co.uk

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THE ECO CHOICE FOR YOUR HOME Known for its richly pigmented paints and handcrafted wallpaper, Farrow & Ball has become a must-have staple in the homes of the style conscious, but did you know it’s also the eco-conscious choice for your home?

ere are seven reasons why Farrow & Ball is crafted to be kinder to the planet and everyone who shares it. 1. It’s child safe – you can be safe in the knowledge that the Estate and Modern ranges are certified safe for use in nurseries and children’s bedrooms and in accordance with Toy Safety Standards. So perfect for sprucing up not only the walls but also toy boxes, cots, headboards, bookshelves or wardrobes. 2. Eco-friendly paint formulations – the entire range of Farrow & Ball paints are water based so are safe to use in all rooms of the home, kinder to the environment, and also makes brushes easier to clean with no need for harmful solvents – not to mention quicker drying times. 3. Comfortable to apply – the low or minimal VOC content in the paint means they are low odour and you don’t have to breathe in nasty fumes. 4. The packaging is infinitely recyclable – metal tins can be recycled over and over

again, it may even turn up in your home again one day! 5. All of the paper used for its wallpaper is sourced from sustainable forests and responsibly manufactured. It’s printed

with Farrow & Ball’s own water-based paints, so environmentally friendly from start to finish – and, because it doesn’t contain any vinyl, any leftover paper can be easily recycled. 6. Zero dry waste – everything is created with care at Farrow & Ball’s home in Dorset and that means 100 per cent of the dry waste from its manufacturing plant is now recycled or converted into energy. The brand’s work has been recognised with environmental accreditations and being winners and finalists for the Coatings Care Awards for the last four years. The water used by Farrow & Ball is recycled in its own water treatment facility which pre-treats it before sending clear water to local authority treatment plants. There are 132 colours, from soft neutrals to bold reds or soothing blues so there is a colour scheme for all kinds of homes, and each shade even has a complementary white – so being green has never been easier! n farrow-ball.com Local stockist rockform.co.uk

Importers & stockists of exceptional tiles, stones & wood flooring

DESIGN INSPIRATION Sarah Varley speaks to interior designer Leslie Lockyear about her favourite projects past and present

eslie Lockyear loves to create beautiful spaces that are also practical. Always endeavouring to achieve complete balance and calm in a room, her work is lifestyle-led showing us our homes need to work for us and the way we live. How would you describe your style? I have always lived in very old houses that needed a lot of renovation and this has given me a lot of practical knowledge about houses. My background in fashion retail, and the experience of buying, setting

out stores and styling fashion shoots really lends itself to interior design, knowing how to create harmony in a room wherever you look. Spending a lot of time in Italy has influenced my taste, especially the idea of the kitchen as the heart of the home. I like to be quite bold in large spaces and make a statement, perhaps with an incredible light fitting or a stunning mirror. My colours can be bold but always toning and I love using textures and natural materials. I take inspiration from fashion and what is going on around us. I

homesinsideout keep the basics quite timeless but add a pop of the client’s personality and work with the things they love. What have been your favourite projects? I have been given some quite unusual challenges. Perhaps the most unusual request was from an old Giggleswick school friend who is now an Augustinian Sister. Her convent runs a retreat and wanted their very grand drawing room to be restored into a calming, inviting space. The ceilings were so high we had to use scaffolding to restore the amazingly ornate plasterwork!

Another favourite project was a completely derelict barn being transformed into a shoot lodge. It was fantastic to be so involved in creating all the different spaces, from the kitchen to the gun room, working with lighting plans and visiting stonemasons to choose the perfect stone for the fireplaces. Tell us about your current projects. It has been a massive treat to work on Pringle Homes’ Northcote project, something so perfectly designed for modern living. These homes are all about lifestyle, which matches my own ethos, because they are ideally located for both commuting to work and the Ribble Valley lifestyle with so much beautiful countryside to explore. I love that the architects have been so sensitive to creating great spaces to live, with great attention to detail. There are bi-folding doors to open up the space into the garden, high ceilings, room for a home study – everything you would want, even plenty of storage for your outdoor gear. The stunning, spacious kitchens are full of

texture with wooden cupboards, stone floors and amazing marble tops. I have made some quite bold choices and I’m experienced in mixing old and new. This will also be shown in another exciting project, the renovation and development of The Horns Inn at Goosnargh. This project is forward-thinking and innovative and has a passionate team working to bring the vision to life. What is the best part of your job? I love working with artisans to bring my clients bespoke, unique pieces. I once saw a light fitting at Arundel Cathedral which I knew my client would love so I tracked down the designer from 20 years ago and got another made. I live, sleep and breathe projects, finding out exactly what my clients want to achieve, creating huge, elaborate mood boards.

The way I work is quite intuitive for each individual space and client. I look at the light and the surroundings, get a feeling for what the space needs and go with it. I love to remove stress for my clients, both in the design process and in having a home that works perfectly.

The very best part of my job is when everything is put in place and the client’s jaw drops. A client once said in their wildest dreams they didn’t think the end result could be so good, and for me there is no better feeling than that! n

EdithAnice Ltd Email: leslielockyear@gmail.com or find us on instagram: @edithanice Creating something you love but find impossible to define

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BUZZING NEW DESIGN British homewares brand, Sophie Allport, is pleased to announce the launch of her new Bees Teal design

eautiful bees buzz around a teal background on this stylish new colourway from Sophie Allport which complements her everpopular Bees collection. As a keen gardener herself, Sophie was inspired by the bees in her garden to create this fine collection. The new teal design features on a wide range of homewares and accessories, including Oundle bags, a pet bed, table linens and kitchen linens. Prices start from £7.50 for a Bees Teal fabric placemat and up to £76 for a Bees extra-large pet bed. Designer Sophie explained: “Our very first design was Busy Bees and we’ve come so far since 2007, so we’re really excited to launch this new Bees Teal design, it’s perfect for adding a touch of colour to any interior all year.” Further items being added to Sophie’s existing Bees collection include a kettle and toaster in collaboration with Dualit, new summer pyjama shorts, a camera bag, a thermal water bottle, t-shirts and bees embroidered bedding. You’ll also spot a lovely new collection of gardening and outdoor accessories in the Bees collection which features gardening toolsets, a selection of display stoneware and ankle wellies. n

The new Bees Teal collection is now available from: sophieallport.com

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

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

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WELCOME BACK! If you’re looking for inspiration for your home then look no further than Gainsborough Flooring, writes Meena McDonald

ainsborough Flooring can provide you with a vast range of carpets, wood type flooring or rugs from world-leading manufacturers. Even though we’ve made a tremendous success of our home selection service over the past year, the thought of actually welcoming customers back into our showroom fills us with great excitement. We truly believe the success of our business can be attributed to the team’s commitment to delivering a personal service to every customer. That has always been our focus and priority, and over the past 70 years we’ve built the most amazing relationships and friendships with customers, So much so, that they come back to us again and again, have invited us to their weddings, and their children and grandchildren are now buying their flooring from us too – a true family business!

Even though we’ve faced numerous challenges over the past 70 years, the showroom being closed for a large proportion of the past year has certainly been the greatest one. However, with the team’s resourcefulness and commitment combined with the support of our loyal customers we have managed to get

through it and come out even stronger. Our business success isn’t just down to our customers and our team, but also our manufacturers and suppliers. The reason we’re able to source such a wonderfully eclectic range of flooring from some of the most reputable manufacturers in the world is because our expert team have established long-lasting partnerships with suppliers, which is built on professionalism and mutual respect. This enables us to provide customers with the most stylish flooring on the market, at extremely competitive prices. We’ve got such an extensive selection, so there’s always something for everyone. Of course we’re very conscious of the fact that as we slowly come out of lockdown, some customers would prefer to continue with our home selection service, therefore, this will remain in place for anyone who wishes to utilise it. Do come and view our superb showroom if you can though and we can guarantee you won’t be disappointed. There is such an array of flooring to choose from and we cannot wait to welcome you with a friendly smile, even though it may be hidden behind a mask! n

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

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

G A R D E N P A RT Y R E A D Y

Ilse Jacobsen Rain 128 Army £220 Precious at Whalley 33 King Street Whalley Clitheroe BB7 9SP 01254 822620 preciousatwhalley.co.uk

Opposite page left: Marc Cain silk mix fabric dress £369 Shaw’s 2b Lynton Road Hillside Southport PR8 3AN 01704 563612 shawsfashion.co.uk Opposite page right: NoLoGo Malibu print linen tunic dress £115 nologo-chic.co.uk Above left: Monsoon Artisan Studio printed max dress £99 monsoon.co.uk Above right: Lipsy contrast spot jumpsuit £75 next.co.uk

BARBOUR TARTAN 12 TAILORED SHIRT SAGE £69.95 kenvarey.co.uk

NAVY OVER SHIRT £155 DRAWSTRING TROUSERS £109 T-SHIRT £59 ALL ROY ROBSON hopestores.co.uk

BARBOUR BRENDON SHIRT OLIVE/MIST TARTAN £59.95 kenvarey.co.uk

SUMMER CASUALS From relaxed rugby tops and tees to bright, chunky-knit sweaters, the new summer collections are casual and comfortable TRAVEL TROUSER COFFEE £69 crewclothing.co.uk

MEN'S WAYFARER SUNGLASSES £55 crewclothing.co.uk

OLIVER BONAS FLORAL SHIRRED WAIST SHIRT £49.50 oliverbonas.com CATH KIDSTON TRIPPER TOTE £65 cathkidston.com

SUEDE MOCCASIN WITH LACES DARKNAVY SIDE £79 crewclothing.co.uk

BARBOUR PADSTOW JACKET £259 & BARBOUR SOUTHPORT TOP £29.95 kenvarey.co.uk

BARBOUR GABBIE GOLD SANDLE £69.95 kenvary.co.uk

BARBOUR KEEL NAVY SHOES £89.95 kenvarey.co.uk WOMEN'S AVIATOR SUNGLASSES GOLD TORTOISESHELL ANGLE £45 crewclothing.co.uk

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

SOUTHPORTS’ PREMIER LADIES FASHION RETAILER OUTHPORTS’ PREMIER LADIES SOUTHPORTS’ FASHION RETAILER PREMIER LADIES FASHION RETAILER

2b Lynton Road, Hillside, Southport Merseyside PR8 3AN 2b Lynton Road, Hillside, Southport Merseyside 2b Lynton PR8 3AN Road, Hillside, Southport Merseyside PR8 3AN t: 01704 563612 w: shawsfashion.co.uk e: sales@shawsfashion.co.uk t: 01704 563612 w: shawsfashion.co.uk e:t:sales@shawsfashion.co.uk 01704 563612 w: shawsfashion.co.uk e: sales@shawsfashion.co.uk

FOR THE INDEPENDENT WOMAN A new face for the Twenty~4, the Patek Philippe ladies’ watch, born to accompany every moment of the modern woman’s life

atek Philippe is stepping up the allure of its Twenty~4 collection exclusively for women with a fresh interpretation of the original ‘manchette’ or cuff-style quartz model in steel of 1999. Patek Philippe have launched two new versions in stainless steel, and one in rose-gold, adorned with applied Arabic numerals and applied trapeze-shaped hour markers. Designed as stylish companions to every facet of an active lifestyle, these new Twenty~4 references stand out

more than ever as paragons of timeless feminine elegance. In 1999, Patek Philippe strengthened its privileged links with feminine watch lovers by launching its first collection dedicated exclusively to women. The aim was to meet the demands of the independent active woman who sought a timepiece with an assertive personality able to adapt to her modern lifestyle. A watch of timeless elegance that would complement her fashionable business-wear and most elegant evening-wear. It would

be her ally on every occasion, uniting contemporary design, technical excellence and impeccable craftsmanship.

A WATCH OF TIMELESS ELEGANCE THAT WOULD COMPLEMENT HER FASHIONABLE BUSINESSWEAR AND MOST ELEGANT EVENING-WEAR Conceived, as its name suggested, for every hour of the day and night, at work, at home and during leisure activities, the new Twenty~4 stood out by its original art-deco-inspired ‘manchette’ or cuff design, featuring a cambered rectangular case that

fashion followed the contours of a woman’s wrist and a metallic bracelet that felt exceptionally smooth and comfortable. In 2018, Patek Philippe responded to women’s increasing interest in mechanical watches by launching the Twenty~4 Automatic. While its bracelet retains the same exclusive design, with the broad, gently cambered central links framed by delicate two-tier outer links, this Reference 7300, endowed with a calibre 324 S C self-winding movement, stands out from the quartz-driven ‘manchette’ model by its round case, its bezel lit with a double row of diamonds in a ‘dentelle’ (lacework) setting and the applied Arabic numerals on the dial. The launch of this new incarnation of timeless feminine elegance gave centre stage to a ‘Twenty~4 woman’ – independent, sure of her taste and making her own way in the world.

THE TWENTY~4 COLLECTION IS A MODEL OF TIMELESS DESIGN THAT HAS BECOME A MODERN CLASSIC AND THE GOLD STANDARD FOR THE ‘MANCHETTE’ WATCH With the new Twenty~4 references, Patek Philippe is continuing the renewal of its Twenty~4 collection by reinterpreting the original model, the medium-size (25.1 x 30 mm) quartz ‘manchette’ watch in steel and rose-gold. The original Roman numerals give way to the gold applied Arabic numerals 12 and 6 and the diamond hour markers are replaced by applied trapeze-shaped hour markers, also in gold. This new face constitutes the first major change to the Twenty~4 of 1999 – and an aesthetic evolution in step with the design of the Twenty~4 Automatic. The three new references feature a dial decorated with a blue sunburst (4910/1200A-001), a grey sunburst enriched by a gradation to black at the periphery (4910/1200A-010) and in rose-gold, a chocolate brown sunburst (4910/1201R-001). Their gold applied numerals and hour markers and gold baton-style hands all have a luminous coating ensuring excellent legibility in the dark. The fine grooved rays of the sunburst emanating from the centre of the dial play with the light, lending a refined but dynamic touch. The distinctive shape of the two-tier rectangular case is underlined by two rows

of 18 Top Wesselton pure diamonds (approx. 0.42ct) set with textbook precision. A Calatrava Cross, emblem of the Patek Philippe manufacture, embellishes the crown. The supple, comfortable bracelet, fitted with a fold-over clasp, is a jewel in its own right. Each component is manually finished and fully polished. The Patek Philippe calibre E15 quartz movement is made with the same devotion to fine workmanship as the manufacture’s mechanical movements. The Twenty~4 collection is a model of timeless design that has become a modern classic and the gold standard for the ‘manchette’ watch. All of which is set to strengthen Patek Philippe’s increasing

success in the ladies’ watch segment and in the hearts of women for whom style and beauty must pass the test of time. The new Patek Philippe Twenty~4 collection is available in Lancashire and Cumbria at Leonard Dews Jewellers. n

Leonard Dews Church Street, Blackpool FY1 1EW 01253 754940 leonarddews.co.uk

MEN’S AVI-8 X RBL PARTNERSHIP £295 avi-8.co.uk

MEN'S RAYMOND WEIL MAESTRO 2227-STC-00808 £1,195 raymond-weil.com

MEN'S CHOPARD HAPPY SPORT £8100 Leonard Dews 18 Church Street Blackpool FY1 1EW 01253 754940 leonarddews.co.uk

WATC H WOR D

WOMEN'S CHOPARD MILLE MIGLIA £5850 leonarddews.co.uk

MEN’S BRISTON CLUBMASTER £265 wolfandbadger.com

These stylish watches for him and her will complement any outfit WOMEN’S TIMEX THE WATERBURY INDIGLO £130 timex.co.uk

MEN’S SPINNAKER FLEUSS £250 spinnaker-watches.co.uk

MENS RAYMOND WEIL MAESTRO 2237-STC-05658 £995 raymond-weil.com

WOMEN'S KATE SPADE NEW YORK HEART £239 very.co.uk MEN’S TIMEX GIORGIO GALLI S1 AUTOMATIC £425 timex.co.uk While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, all prices and stockists are subject to change.

WOMEN’S BRISTON CLUBMASTER £265 wolfandbadger.com

fashion

SAME PEOPLE, SAME SERVICE… NEW NAME Fitright Footwear is the brand-new name for the specialist shoe shop in Clitheroe! Not only is it a brand-new name, it’s also an exciting, brand-new look! Photography: Kirsten Platt

on’t worry, Fitright Footwear will still offer the same immensely popular one-to-one, outstanding, professional, measuring and fitting service for people who have awkward or hard to fit feet that they have always done, and the same Fitright Footwear team are delighted to be open once more. We can promise and assure you that absolutely nothing has changed but the name! In addition to all the excitement of reopening in Clitheroe, Fitright Footwear are absolutely thrilled to announce that they have opened a brand-new Fitright Footwear shop, offering an identical outstanding service, in Harrogate. Bursting with a fabulous collection of spring and summer footwear, our Society of Shoe Fitter qualified staff invite you to step through the door, relax and allow them to treat your feet. With their in-depth product knowledge, they will guide you every step of the way to help you find shoes that are right for you.

Fitright Footwear firmly believe you simply cannot beat the personal instore experience and service that they offer. When you buy online you can’t touch, feel or, most importantly, try on the footwear you wish to purchase. Our high quality, complimentary, unique fitting service is like no other. At Fitright Footwear we pride ourselves on being passionate about footwear and ensuring that each fitting is as individual as every customer that steps through our door. By listening to our customers, we help them to choose the footwear that meets their needs best. Like fingerprints everyone’s feet are different. There is no such thing as a standard size or fit. When we measure it is only a starting point – a guide for us. It may come as a surprise to learn that our feet are changing all the time becoming flatter, wider and longer as we get older. In addition to these changes, it’s also common to start developing foot problems such as bunions, hammer toes, Morton’s

Neuroma, Plantar Fasciitis and corns. At Fitright Footwear we endeavour to stock a fabulous range of footwear in a variety of sizes, widths and depths to ensure we have something to fit everyone, whatever their needs. We also want our customers to know that we will be continuing to focus on our customers’ safety by operating an appointment system and locked door policy to restrict the number of customers in store at any one time. This also allows us to maintain the correct level of social distancing required and keep track of and monitor all surfaces that are touched so that the right level of cleaning takes place between each customer. Fitright Footwear – with you every step of the way. n

Fitright Footwear 32D King Street, Clitheroe BB7 2EP Book your appointment on 01200 425399 clitheroe@fitrightfootwear.co.uk fitrightfootwear.co.uk Opening Times: Wed to Sat 10am – 5pm Find us on Facebook and Twitter

health&beauty Creating a great skincare routine can certainly go a long way to preventing breakouts caused by wearing a mask for long periods, pamper your skin with a good cleansing and hydrating routine to keep the skins PH balance at its optimum. Avoiding wearing make-up whilst wearing a mask will mean less build up, but as this is not always possible, be sure to clean thoroughly morning and evening.

CREATING A GREAT SKINCARE ROUTINE CAN CERTAINLY GO A LONG WAY TO PREVENTING BREAKOUTS CAUSED BY WEARING A MASK FOR LONG PERIODS

FACING THE PROBLEMS OF MASKNE –

THE NEW ACNE THAT’S NOT JUST FOR TEENAGERS!

Since wearing a face mask or facial covering has become part of every day life grown adults are increasingly finding that they are suffering from acne breakouts like that haven’t seen since their teenage years

he close contact of the mask to skin, combined with a warm moist environment between the surfaces creates an opportunity for the skin to become irritated, blotchy and sore, leading to a condition commonly referred to as Maskne. Maskne is the term given to an outbreak of acne vulgaris or irritation on the face, generally focused around the mouth and nose area, as a result of wearing a face mask for an extended period of time. Wearing a face mask or face covering for short periods of time likely won’t cause too much irritation, but longer-term use, such as we are seeing during the pandemic can lead to this condition becoming more prominent, particularly in those with blemish-prone skin. Jane Cable, who has worked in the skin care industry for the past 15 years with brands such as Clarins and Tropic explained: “Our faces are covered in tiny follicles that become blocked at various points around the nose, mouth and forehead, all of which create a petri-dish for bacteria to grow and a flare-up to occur, even in people with no history of blemishes or acne.”

Jane explains: “It’s also important to feed your skin’s natural eco flora and keep PH at its optimum, a great moisturiser, nourishing oils, and blemish prevention serum will go a long way to reduce future breakouts. “Remedying mask damage with a mask may sound counter-intuitive, but it works. Blemish fighting masks can be applied twice weekly for a balanced skin. Look out for blue spirulina, bioflavonoids and prebiotics, bamboo charcoal, ginger and salicylic acid, these amazing natural ingredients are great for helping to prevent maskne.” To blitz blemishes, Jane swears by Tropics Pure Lagoon blemish prevention serum, a lightweight serum which contains blue spirulina to sooth and reduce inflammation, and prebiotics and bioflavonoids to optimise your skins PH. n

For 1-2-1 skincare advise and recommendations on the use of Tropic products go to: www.tropicsincare.com/janecable

health&beauty

DON’T WAIT TO PUT YOUR

BEST FACE FORWARD Emma Pearce, founder of renowned non-invasive skin clinic EMA Skin Aesthetics Ltd in Preston, is excited to have introduced the new state-of-the-art Plasma Pen Ultra, delivering even more remarkable results to her clients

own

MA Skin Aesthetics Ltd founder Emma Pearce explains: “I always stay ahead with the latest leading technology to ensure I maintain my reputation as the number one leading skin specialist in the region. The results I’m achieving with the new Plasma Pen Ultra are second to none and it has definitely given my clients the wow factor. The feedback has been so rewarding. There’s a real buzz in the air due to the results, which has caused a high demand in bookings. I’m delighted with it!

and next generation treatments and it certainly does. It is truly state-of-the-art non-invasive technology. Why go invasive when you don’t need to? “All of my clients have stated it was a comfortable treatment and a much better experience than

are achieved after three months. The results last up to three years and can last even longer. “I have also been achieving amazing results with HyapenTM, the natural non-invasive volumiser for lips and the mouth region – perfect if

“I had been struggling with my skin for 10 years, I was suffering with acne at 52, my skin looked tired, dull, old and lax. I was always too scared and quite frankly embarrassed to go to a skin clinic. Finally, I decided to do something about it when my daughter announced she was getting married. I contacted Emma through a recommendation from a friend. Now I only wish I had addressed my concerns years ago. Emma 100 per cent exceeded my expectations. I now have clear and youthful skin and it was achieved on time for my daughter’s wedding as promised. Sindy C

they expected. The new Plasma Pen is fantastic for treating drooping jowls, lip lines, marionette lines, smile lines, frown lines, forehead lines and lifting drooping eyelids. Clients have been seeing visible results in just two weeks and final results “The new Plasma Pen Ultra is a two-setting device which allows me to heighten the level of plasma delivered in those areas that require more help. It’s designed to underpin all the primary treatments, advanced treatments

you’re concerned about your lips thinning, and especially if you’re scared of needles,” says Emma. “It gently introduces hyaluronic acid fillers into the skin without a needle – the most hydrating substance found naturally and required for

SPECIAL OFFERS Plasma Pen Ultra treatments starting from £250 per area. A once-only launch offer of £169 off the price of each area until 4th July 2021 Hyapen non-invasive filler starting from £200 – 10% off until 4th July 2021

youthful hydration and texture. It’s incredible and there is no numbing needed and absolutely no down time!

“It’s never too late or too early to get the skin confidence you deserve. Don’t wait to address your concerns, nip them in the bud and start putting your best face forward today!” n

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

health&beauty

TO PAY OR… NOT TO PAY?

for and what’s excluded.You can also tailor the policy to fit in with your needs, choosing from options such as mental health cover and comprehensive cancer cover. As with other types of insurance, you can decide on the level of excess cover you need. Although a higher excess can result in lower monthly premiums, you have to be sure that you’d be able to pay up if you need to make a claim.

Private healthcare is an option available for anyone who’s in a position to pay for their medical treatment. It means that you won’t have to go through the usual waiting lists that can be YOU CAN ALSO common with the NHS and you could have access to consultants TAILOR THE POLICY TO FIT IN WITH YOUR NEEDS and procedures that may not be available to you on the National Health Service (NHS). However, if you don’t have health insurance, Although the NHS can make healthcare it can prove to be very costly, writes Abbie Laughton-Coles more affordable for those living in the

efore we explore the benefits of private healthcare we need to remember that not all treatments available on the NHS will be offered by private healthcare companies, and as we have seen throughout the pandemic the NHS is a truly fabulous organisation that we are very fortunate to have in this country. If you’re looking into private healthcare, you usually need to be referred by your GP. This is a quick and straightforward process and you should be seen by a private healthcare consultant within a couple of weeks. Private medical insurance or health insurance can make private healthcare more

affordable.You’ll pay a monthly premium and how much this will cost is determined by a number of different factors, including the optional extras you want to be included. The terms and conditions of each policy will detail exactly what you’ll be covered

UK, there are some instances in which you may want to consider opting for private healthcare. This could include if you’re currently on a long waiting list for treatment or the medical procedure you need isn’t available on the NHS (for example cosmetic surgery). If you’re a stickler for privacy, you’ll be happy to know that you get your own room if you need to stay and there’ll be a selection of food, so you can peruse the menu to see what tickles your fancy. The NHS will offer options catering to dietary needs, whether they’re religious or medical requirements, but it’s unlikely to be the gastronomic smorgasbord you can expect in private healthcare. n

Fast access to a range of diagnostic tests Spire Fylde Coast Hospital now has its mobile MRI and CT scanners available throughout the week in addition to X-ray, Ultrasound and digital Mammography If you’re waiting to see a GP or specialist about a health issue or waiting for tests, there’s no need to put your life on hold.

•

Virtual, telephone and face to face appointments with specialists are available within a few days at times to suit you.

•

Specialists cover a wide range of areas including Physiotherapy, Joints and Spinal, Gynaecology, Urology, General Surgery, Ear Nose and Throat.

•

MRI and CT scanners together with X-ray, Ultrasound and digital Mammography are available throughout the week with fast turnaround of results so you can get answers quickly.

•

If you need treatment you will be within a Covid secure environment where your safety is our first priority. Scans start from £129* depending on type of scan and area.

For more information contact our Imaging department on: Call 01253 308084 Email info@spirefyldecoast.com Website www.spirefyldecoast.com

* Monthly payment options are available Terms and Conditions apply

health&beauty

Morpheus8: Dr. F. Roth

MORPHEUS8 COMES TO CLITHEROE! RejuvaMed is introducing a revolutionary new treatment that has taken the world of cosmetic medicine by storm

ward winning medical and lifestyle clinic RejuvaMed has brought several new treatments to the Ribble Valley over recent months including miraDry permanent sweat reduction, which can transform the lives of those who have problems with underarm sweating, and oculoplastic surgery for those who have loose and saggy eyelids. As an established family run clinic, led by owner consultant doctor Grant McKeating, RejuvaMed has built an enviable reputation for quality care, with excellent patient feedback. Now RejuvaMed is bringing the incredible Morpheus8 to the Ribble Valley. Morpheus8 has taken the world of cosmetic medicine by storm and is now the ‘go to’ treatment in the celebrity world to rejuvenate the face and body, with rave reviews from the likes of Judy Murray, Amanda Holden and Kim Kardashian. So what IS Morpheus8? Morpheus8 is a combination of two anti-ageing treatments in one. This ‘power couple’ together triggers our own natural healing mechanisms of collagen

and elastin production, without injections into the face or body. Not only can this treatment improve the appearance of sagging and excess fat in the face and neck, it can also reduce pigmentation, treat acne scars,

stimulating the healing response, whilst radiofrequency uses heat to ‘shrink wrap’, tighten and lift the skin at a deeper level. The Morpheus8 system ‘injects’ the RF energy into the skin with lots of tiny needles, and the depth

Morpheus8: Dr. S. Harper

fade stretch marks and reduce lines and wrinkles. Morpheus8 combines microneedling and radiofrequency (RF) technologies, both of which work to create controlled trauma. Microneedling creates ‘micro-trauma’ in the skin,

skin) and for contouring, the needles can be adjusted to reach as far as the subdermal tissue, which is the deepest layer of the skin. In effect, by combining the two technologies together, Morpheus8 gives you two treatments in one, with enhanced and much faster results! An anaesthetic numbing cream is applied to the skin before treatment to ensure that the procedure is as comfortable as possible.The skin may be a little pink for a day or so afterwards, but down time is minimal. This non-invasive, relatively painless procedure is safe for all skin tones. Treatments can be performed on any area which exhibits wrinkles, skin laxity, discolouration, acne scarring or stretch marks. It is most commonly used as a rejuvenation and lifting treatment for the face and neck, but can also be used to tighten areas such as the thighs and tummy. You’ll often see results within a few days of your first treatment, however your appearance will continue to gradually improve in the following weeks. For best results, RejuvaMed recommends two to three sessions of Morpheus8, spaced six to eight weeks apart. These results will last around a year, so annual follow up sessions may be required to maintain your youthful appearance. n To book a consultation to discuss Morpheus8, call RejuvaMed on 01200 538668, or email: info@rejuvamed.co.uk

of the needles can be adjusted depending on the area of skin being treated. For resurfacing the needle depth is smaller to work in the epidermis (the outer layer), for skin tightening it’s a little deeper to work in the dermis (the middle layer of the

INTRODUCTORY OFFER 10% OFF MORPHEUS8 FACE AND NECK ONLY £585 LIMITED PLACES

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

health&beauty

TAKE CONTROL

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

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

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

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

health&beauty

Photography: Roger Moore

benefits of the clinic, what really sets it apart is the incredible personal support and care offered by the team. Sarah Caine, the clinic’s breast care nurse, plays a vital role in each patient’s care. A nurse for 27 years, who has specialised in breast health for seven years, Sarah was recruited specifically for the new clinic. “If a mammogram is done in the morning, the consultant will review the results immediately and send them straight to me, so I can usually be back in touch with the patient the very same day,” explains Sarah. “If a problem has been identified, I’ll immediately provide the patient with a follow up consultant appointment.” Sarah then becomes the patients’ first point of contact for individual support and further information. They will have Sarah’s phone number and can contact her at any time. “Patients can become quite emotional and upset, and Sarah is with them all the way, quite literally holding their hands,” says Hayley. You don’t need a GP’s referral to access the new service. If you have any concerns

PERSONAL SERVICE WHEN IT’S NEEDED MOST A breast clinic in Blackpool is providing a vital service alongside an unmatched level of personal care, writes Kate Ford

business development manager. “Our new clinic can offer diagnostics, advice and treatment very, very quickly.”

uring last year’s pandemic, there was UK-wide concern that people with symptoms of non-Covid conditions were unable to access diagnostic services. This often meant that serious problems were not identified and were therefore left untreated. The women’s health team at Blackpool’s Spire Fylde Coast Hospital were particularly concerned that routine mammograms were being cancelled and that women with worrying symptoms were unable to access the help they needed. In response, they set up a new specialist service dedicated entirely to breast care. “We were genuinely concerned that routine screening was unavailable and women who had found lumps were often unable to see their own GP, never mind a consultant,” says Hayley Summersgill,

OUR NEW CLINIC CAN OFFER DIAGNOSTICS, ADVICE AND TREATMENT VERY, VERY QUICKLY The breast clinic, which launched in October, has four specialist breast consultants including one female consultant. Whilst minimal waiting times are one of the

about your breast health, you can ring Spire Fylde Coast on the number below and speak to one of their advisors. Some women are concerned about their family history of breast cancer and may be considering having the test for the BRCA (breast cancer) gene. In these circumstances, the Spire team will arrange for them to see a specialist consultant to talk through their options. Whatever the reason for coming, patients will receive the highest quality of individual care. “I consider it a privilege to do this job. I cherish each patient and want to make sure they get whatever treatment they need quickly,” says Sarah. “It’s important to remember that men can be diagnosed with breast cancer too. It’s less common than in women, but it can happen, and this is a clinic for everyone.” n

Spire Fylde Coast Hospital St. Walburgas Road, Blackpool FY3 8BP 01253 308031 spirehealthcare.com/spire-fylde-coast-hospital

SKIN CANCER

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

ighly-regarded Consultant Dermatologist, Dr Arif Aslam, has made the prevention and treatment of skin cancer his life’s work. His dedication and passion have resulted in him working internationally due to the high demand for his specialist surgical skills. Now, he’s brought his unique skill-set home to the people of Lancashire. Arif is a double fellowship-trained Mohs Micrographic Surgeon. One of only 14 UKbased members of the prestigious American College of Mohs Surgery. Mohs surgery is considered the gold standard for treating common types of skin cancer. Done in stages, including immediate microscopic review while the patient waits, all cancerous cells are removed and healthy tissue is left untouched. All while leaving the smallest possible scar. Mohs surgery has the lowest cancer recurrence rates and highest cure rates up to 99% for primary lesions and 98% for reoccurring lesions unsuccessfully treated by other methods. It also has the best cosmetic results of any skin cancer treatment. “It’s been amazing doing high volume Mohs surgery in New Zealand, Australia and Canada where they have the highest incidence of skin cancer, but I always wanted to return to my home town of Burnley and set up my own surgical practice for the people of Lancashire,” says Arif. “My friend and colleague Dr Miguel Montero, a highly-regarded skin specialist, heard I was back and asked me to consider joining his team. I jumped at the opportunity. What better place than Miguel’s beautiful Medical Skin Clinic, located privately within Crow Wood Leisure, to fulfil my ambition of having a

local clinic offering Mohs and advanced dermatology services.” Dr Montero commented: “I’ve diagnosed and treated non-cancerous lesions for many years in my clinic and in the NHS.

MOHS SURGERY IS CONSIDERED THE GOLD STANDARD FOR TREATING COMMON TYPES OF SKIN CANCER “Patients with more serious abnormalities previously required a referral to a specialist dermatologist, which can be a lengthy and worrying process. So, when I heard Arif was returning to the UK and looking to set up his own practice, I was straight on the phone,” says Miguel.

MOHS SURGERY HAS THE LOWEST CANCER RECURRENCE RATES AND HIGHEST CURE RATES UP TO 99% “Lesion removal is difficult to obtain via the NHS, especially in Lancashire and Cumbria. Even if you get to see your GP, there are few with a dermatology speciality. Sadly, some serious cases get missed or caught too late. “With Arif on board, we can help more people, giving them safe, fast and effective private dermatology treatment that eliminates unnecessary wait times and worry.” “Miguel and his wife Gill, who is Clinic

DISCOVER LASER, CROW WOOD ROYLE LANE, BURNLEY BB12 0RT EASY TO ACCESS JUST OFF THE M65

www.discoverlaser.co.uk

Director, have thoroughly spoiled me,” Arif says with his trademark warm and friendly smile. “I have an excellent purpose-designed theatre room and lab within their clinic, where I carry out my weekly Mohs clinics. “Because it involves a special multi-step process, Mohs surgery is slightly more expensive but more cost-effective than other skin cancer treatments. Health insurance plans also cover it. For patients seeking a traditional approach, I also remove noncancerous and cancerous skin lesions using long-established surgical methods.” When Skin Cancer Awareness month is over at the end of May, skin cancer prevention and treatment will still be very much at the top of Dr Aslam’s agenda. He encourages everyone to keep on top of their skin health because early detection leads to a better diagnosis. ■ Book your FULL-BODY SKIN CHECK for £175, by calling Discover Laser’s friendly team on 01282 420886 If you’d like to know more about treatment, you’ll ﬁnd lots of information at discoverlaser.co.uk

REVOLUTIONISING THE WAITING GAME FOR PATIENTS Chris Greenslade, Hospital Director at Euxton Hall shared with Helen Sanderson the plans for Ramsay Healthcare’s new hospital. The new day case hospital opening in Buckshaw Village will be a ‘one stop shop’ for patients

he Ramsay Healthcare UK have recently invested £25million in a day case hospital. The new, stateof-the-art development is located at Matrix Park in Buckshaw Village, Chorley. Chris Greenslade, Hospital Director at Euxton Hall who is leading on the new development explained: “The new hospital will be an extension of services offered by Euxton and Fulwood Hall Hospitals, building

on the strong relationships that we have established with both NHS and insured patients, whilst also enhancing our offering for those in the local area that are paying privately for their medical procedures.”

THE BUCKSHAW HOSPITAL IS A CONSULTANT LED FACILITY WHICH WILL OFFER A ‘ONE STOP SERVICE’ APPROACH As a day case hospital, patients will be able to have rapid diagnostic procedures and results and be treated by a consultant without the need for an overnight stay. The new hospital will provide further capacity to treat patients in and around the local area and reduce patient waiting times. All this whilst delivering the best care and patient experience that has become synonymous with Ramsay Healthcare UK. Ramsay Healthcare UK already operate two leading private hospitals in Lancashire, Fulwood Hall near Preston and Euxton Hall

health&beauty

which is situated on the outskirts of Chorley. Euxton Hall and Fulwood Hall Hospitals have some of the UK’s leading consultant surgeons treating patients here in Lancashire, including nationally recognised orthopaedic, general surgical, breast care and cosmetic doctors.

OUR NEW FACILITY WILL ENSURE THE LOCAL COMMUNITY HAS ACCESS TO HIGH DEMAND SERVICES, PROVIDING GREAT CARE TO ALL OUR PATIENTS Chris added: “The Buckshaw Hospital is a consultant led facility which will offer a ‘one stop service’ approach.This means that a patient will be able to have an outpatient appointment with a consultant, have a diagnostic test, ultrasound MRI or CT scan and receive a diagnosis the same day. In some instances, patients may also be able to have their treatment the same day and we generally aim to have patients treated surgically within a couple of weeks. We know that having to wait for treatment can be lengthy, painful and emotionally draining.” The Buckshaw Hospital will offer the one stop clinic service in urology, gynaecology, breast care and orthopaedics. As well as offering clinics in key specialities including gastroenterology, ENT, general surgery, gynaecology, orthopaedics, urology, pain management, dermatology and cosmetics. Patients should seek a referral from their GP or equivalent practitioner for rapid access to diagnostics in the brand new static MRI, CT and 3D Mammography scanning facilities. Facilities at the new hospital will include: • Rapid Diagnostic Imaging Services including static CT and MRI scanner machines, ultrasound and breast mammography • Two surgical day case theatres • A purpose built endoscopy unit for gastroscopy and colonoscopy services • An outpatient department equipped with six consulting rooms • Large treatment room for one stop clinics • Physiotherapy department. The new facilities will be run by Hospital Manager, Karen Crockatt. Karen has over 30 years’ experience in healthcare having trained and qualified as a nurse and working through the ranks promotion to Senior Theatre Sister and then Theatre Manager.

Her next opportunity took her to Head of Procurement and Commissioning in the NHS and the Independent Sector. Karen said: “I’m delighted to be appointed Hospital Manager at the new Buckshaw Hospital. It’s going to be a fantastic facility and enable The Ramsay Group to deliver the very best in patient care whilst cutting out the diagnostic time that patients have

to go through way too often.” Adding: “It’s fair to say that 2021 has proved to be a challenging start to the year but I am pleased to announce that the hospital development remains on schedule and will open in Autumn 2021. Our new facility will ensure the local community has access to high demand services, providing great care to all our patients.” This major development will also create new employment opportunities in the local area, with approximately 70 vacancies in nursing, nursing support, clinical, administration and support services, with many opportunities for training and professional development. In addition, the facility has eighty car parking spaces and eight electric car charging stations. Despite the challenges the pandemic has created, work has remained on track and the opening for The Buckshaw Hospital is planned for September 2021. n

ramsayhealth.co.uk

health&beauty Other treatments available at Angela Kay’s include:

WRINKLE RELAXING INJECTIONS

Minimally invasive, this works by blocking nerve impulses, creating a smoother appearance to the skin. The muscles are unable to create the frown that causes lines to appear and it can also lift the brow area slightly to give a more ‘awake’ look. Areas targeted can include the forehead, vertical lines between the eyebrows and crows’ feet around the eyes.

DERMAL FILLERS

This is a procedure to fill fine lines or deep wrinkles around the mouth, smoker’s lines

REHYDRATE & REFRESH

lways at the forefront of new treatments and technologies, leading beauty therapist Angela Kay is delighted to introduce Profhilo – a multi-tasking wonder treatment that rehydrates and plumps, smooths and tightens the skin while stimulating collagen.

Experienced beauty therapist Angela Kay introduces a new treatment that subtly, plumps, rehydrates and refreshes the skin or the nose to mouth lines. It is also used to plump out lips. Angela doesn’t create ‘the trout pout’, only natural enhancements are her aim. Bio-degradable hyaluronic acid, naturally found in our skin, is injected beneath the skin’s surface to smooth wrinkles and add volume.

PROFHILO

Minimally invasive, Profhilo is effectively a moisturiser containing 100 per cent synthetic hyaluronic acid (HA) that is injected by a tiny needle. Because it gets deeper it rehydrates and plumps the skin far more effectively than a topical cream. “Profhilo isn’t a filler, it isn’t permanent and doesn’t freeze anything – but the results really do speak for themselves,” explains Angela. An incredibly effective remodelling injectable for smoothing and tightening the skin, Profhilo stimulates collagen production naturally and provides a deep long-lasting hydration leaving the skin glowing. It is suitable for use on the face, neck and hands (as pictured below).

VITAMIN D & B12 Profhilo is injected into five key points in the face starting with each side just next to the ears, then on to the nasolabial fold – the laughter lines around the mouth – the chin, under the eyes and on the tops of cheeks. The five specific points ensure optimum placement so it spreads evenly across the skin – results can usually be seen after four weeks and two sessions are required four weeks apart for maximum results. Angela adds: “Treatment with Profhilo can improve skin tone, texture, hydration and overall radiance. It can help to increase firmness and elasticity and promote healthier and softer-looking skin. Profhilo doesn’t sit in the wrinkle, it spreads underneath the skin, rehydrating and smoothing.”

SPECIAL OFFER! 20% OFF PROFHILO Offer closes end of June 2021

Essential to get our body and mind working at optimum levels these vitamins are available in injectable form, giving you an instant boost! While many people take supplements in tablet form, some of the efficacy is lost – an injection once every three to six months goes straight into your system. With many years’ experience in the beauty industry, fully qualified and insured, Angela will always carry out a full consultation, advising on what treatment is most suitable, analysing what will help make you look naturally refreshed and more youthful. n For more information please go to: angelakays.co.uk

Angela Kay’s Beauty Salon 46 Warner Street Accrington BB5 1HN Angela Kay’s, Brockhall Village 07813 195888 angelakays.co.uk aklaser.co.uk akbrows.com

5* rating on Google, Trip Advisor and Facebook – Top-rated salon on Treatwell

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LOVING THE SKIN YOU’RE IN... Anti-ageing skincare, does it exist and does it work? Happily, the answer is yes, but time and again the science comes back to three, clinically proven, key ingredients – Vitamin C, sunscreen and Vitamin A

NEXT IN YOUR ARSENAL IS SUNSCREEN: SPF is the most powerful anti-ageing weapon there is – and it is clinically proven, so no argument there. Although if you are younger, you might argue that SPF belongs in the ‘prevention’ category. You also want to ensure that it is broad spectrum, environmentally clean and photostable. It doesn’t fix any damage that is already done – that’s the job of Vitamin A.

he truth behind whether a topical skin product works or not comes down to the ingredients it’s packed with, how that product is formulated and whether or not they contain high enough levels of the active key ingredients to be of any value to the skin. The point of anti-ageing skincare is to make older, possibly damaged, skin behave in a younger and healthier way and this is how these three key ingredients do it.

FIRST UP IS VITAMIN C: This is one of the most powerful vitamins for preventing the signs of ageing and reversing the signs of skin damage. It is an exceptional antioxidant which protects your skin throughout the day from free radical attack caused by pollutants and it also disrupts the formation of melanin, so helps prevent age spots and promotes even skin tone. It is essential for the formation of collagen – which in turn prevents lines and wrinkles. So, no Vitamin C – no collagen!

behave in a younger and healthier way – and so with continued use, you can expect your skin to be smoother brighter and firmer. But choose your Vitamin A with care – and use it wisely! All Vitamin A products should be phased in over a period of four weeks. Melt have partnered with Medik8, Nourish and Dr Haushka and are specialists in skincare which is scientifically proven to help ageing skin look younger. More importantly, they can help guide you on the correct use and entry level for your skin type and age – and advise when to step up to the next level for continued improvement. For a more in-depth telephone consultation, or to book an appointment to discuss this in person, please call 01200 443377. n

Melt are also stockists of Powder, Chalk, niche perfumes, cashmere, jewellery and more. Retail outlet, Chandlery and Reading Room open seven days a week. 10am-5pm Monday to Saturday and 12 noon-4.30pm on Sundays and Bank Holidays

THE POWERHOUSE THAT IS VITAMIN A: Hailed as the gold-standard in anti-ageing, Vitamin A (a retinoid) is one of the most well proven ingredients in skincare. It is the only other ingredient along with SPF that is legally allowed to claim to be anti-ageing. As we age, loss of Vitamin A and collagen helps create those signs of ageing such as wrinkles and a dull complexion. But retinoids (Vitamin A) can help reverse this. It rebuilds collagen, increases cell turnover, targets hyperpigmentation, tackles acne, refines skin texture, repairs sun damage, targets wrinkles – and is an all-round good egg. Essentially, it challenges ageing skin to

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

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COME HOME TO YOUR HIGH STREET.

Preston has missed you! Whether you’ve been waiting for the bars, shops, cafes or gyms… Preston is now open and ready to welcome you back!

So do your bit by following the guidelines while on your shopping spree, eating out with friends or exploring Preston’s beautiful parks.

All our businesses have been working hard to ensure your visit is safe.

Come home to your high street, we are ready for you.

GLOBAL LEADER R The opening of Ribble Cycles’ fantastic new showroom has sparked a wave of excitement, which isn’t surprising as it’s undoubtedly the best in the world – and it’s right here in Lancashire

eturning to its prestigious heritage, world-renowned Ribble Cycles has opened a state-of-the-art flagship showroom in the heart of the Ribble Valley. Leading this exciting project is Commercial Director David Stacey, who says: “Personally I am really passionate about this, it is a world class experience in the Ribble Valley, which is the perfect location for cycling as we have beautiful countryside and an abundance of quiet lanes along which to explore it! Fantastic riding like this is the ideal backdrop for our world-class range of bikes.” Located at Barrow Brook, just off the A59, the flagship showroom is just a few minutes’

drive from the M6, M65 and the national motorway network: “This was really important to us as people travel from all over the UK to visit us,” explains David. “We needed ease of access and a unit that was a blank canvas, which is exactly what we got.” In a brand-new unit spanning a generous 2,000 sq ft, Ribble Cycles, which dates back to 1897, is bringing the brand truly into the 21st century. At the foot of majestic Pendle Hill and surrounded by stunning countryside, visitors to the flagship showroom will be greeted by Europe’s largest indoor 4K display at nine metres wide, and a fully digital retail experience.

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“It is a focal point that is engaging. The showroom is of a standard that is commensurate with our worldwide brand. We wanted something that is truly the best of its kind globally,” adds David.

WHICHEVER WAY THE CUSTOMER WANTS TO BUY THEIR BIKE, WE HAVE ALL THE DIFFERENT OPTIONS. WE JUST WANT THE BEST BIKE FOR THEM While manufacture will continue at the Preston site, the new Ribble Cycles showroom is leading the way in omnichannel retail whereby customers can engage with the brand however they prefer. Customers can now shop online on the website, come into the new showroom, speak to the UK-based customer service team via phone, email or text chat – or even use the ‘Virtual Showroom’ feature on the website which will connect customers to an agent in the Clitheroe store via a live video link. There has never been more ways to engage, and Ribble are confident of delivering an exceptional experience however customers choose to interact with them. “Whichever way the customer wants to buy

their bike, we have all the different options available. We just want to make sure they ultimately get the best bike for them.” Unlike most bike retailers who stack their cycles closely together to maximise space, Ribble Cycles showcase their bikes so customers have a 360 degree view: “The way we have done it means customers can see the bikes properly, like pieces of art. They are on plinths but can be taken down so customers can touch and feel them.” Next to each bike is a digital tablet looping a video of that particular bike in action: “It is a very immersive, sensory experience showing what the bike can do. Customers can also use the tablet to get content on the bike from our website, such as imagery and FAQs and even customer and press reviews. With each tablet customers have all the information in front of them – it’s a really exciting showroom concept.” One of Ribble Cycles’ unique selling points is the customisation of bikes, which makes them very different to other retailers: “With our Bike Builder experience we can customise to any specification and in the new showroom we have all the options on display. If customers want to see the difference between an alloy and carbon wheel, for example, we have them here to touch and feel. “Similarly, with our CustomColour service we have a designated area in the showroom with tube samples in a colour wheel so you can see exactly what your chosen shade looks like ‘in the flesh’ and how it will look teamed with a different shade.” With a friendly, experienced team at the Barrow Brook showroom, customer service remains at the heart of Ribble Cycles:

“If customers have never ridden a bike before – or if they are riding at professional level, we have staff that have the relevant technical experience.

WE CONSIDER THE SHOWROOM TO BE OF A STANDARD THAT IS COMMENSURATE WITH OUR WORLDWIDE BRAND. WE WANTED SOMETHING THAT IS TRULY THE BEST OF ITS KIND GLOBALLY “First and foremost, we want the flagship showroom to be a fun and engaging experience for everyone. We want customers to get up close and personal with our bikes, whether that’s one of the latest e-bikes, a new bike to commute to work on, or a pro-level bike to win their next race. “The showroom and the brand have a legacy that will continue for many generations to come and we want people to be blown away by this latest chapter in Ribble Cycles’ history.” n The new Ribble Cycles showroom, just off the A59 is now open – free parking is available

Ribble Cycles Unit 1 Barrow Brook Trade Park Barrow Brook, Clitheroe BB7 9BQ ribblecycles.co.uk Monday to Friday: 9.00-20.00 Saturday: 9.00-18.00 Sunday: 11.00-17.00

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As we reflect on our buying habits and look to reduce waste we may overlook that it’s possible to get a hand tied bunch of beautiful British-grown seasonal flowers to display in our homes. Photography: Brooks-Carter Photography

oanna Whittaker decided that “grow your own” was the best for her flower business. She owned and ran a busy florist for 15 years, and has been in the industry for 25 years. Three years ago she reached for a new challenge, not only selling flowers but growing them. Joanna explained: “For me the satisfaction comes from seeding the flowers, nurturing them before planting them out, then cutting them when fully grown to sell fresh that day. To be involved in the whole life cycle is extremely rewarding. Buying British and local has never been so important.” Her field grown blooms are hand tied in craft paper in a country style and sold

LOCAL BRITISH BLOOMS BUYING BRITISH AND LOCAL HAS NEVER BEEN SO IMPORTANT in the Flora & Fauna shop which is open every Friday and Saturday on the main road between Lytham and Wrea Green. Everything Joanna sells is seasonal and British, and she is hoping to share her passion and knowledge in classes and events such as ‘pick your own’ later this year. n

Flora & Fauna Spring Field Farm, Moss Side Wrea Green FY8 4LY joanna.floraandfauna@gmail.com

joanna.floraandfauna

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NEW CARE HOME OFFERS

FIRST CLASS CARE

ibble Court Care Home in Much Hoole, near Preston, will offer its residents a wide variety of activities and events to connect the home with its vibrant local community. The trained and knowledgeable staff at Ribble Court, which can accommodate 53 residents, will provide exceptional standards of care including residential, nursing, specialist and respite care. The purpose-built, high-quality home has spacious lounges, a hair and beauty salon and LIVE PRESTON & FYLDE HALF PAGE_Ad2:Layout relaxing landscaped gardens. There’s also a1

café and dining room serving home cooked food from a daily menu to ensure all likes are catered for. All the bedrooms are spacious and complete with an en-suite wet room and wireless alert system that allows residents to call a member of staff at any time. Ribble Court’s Registered Manager Jen Roberts, said: “Being purpose-built means that we can tailor the room layouts to deliver outstanding person-centred care within a supportive, care-focused environment with state-of-the-art facilities 18/05/2021 14:02 Page 1 and nursing technology.

Ribble Court, a new purposebuilt luxury care home will be opening near Preston in June “We go to great lengths to ensure our residents are afforded opportunities to pursue hobbies and interests that are dear to them through our extensive weekly activity programme.” Ribble Court Care Home is part of the Sandstone Care Group, an independent, quality-driven care home operator whose primary purpose is to provide the same standards of care, comfort and compassion you would expect in your own home. n sandstonecare.co.uk

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If you go up to the woods today... You’re in for a big surprise. Your dream holiday retreat deserves an extra special location and Three Rivers Woodland Park ticks all the boxes. Nestled in the heart of the Ribble Valley countryside and the Forest of Bowland AONB, but still only a couple of miles from the hub of Clitheroe, Three Rivers has stunning views and outstanding on park facilities including, swimming pool, two bars, cafe and shop. It is the ideal base to unwind and recharge in the peaceful woodland setting or have your own wilderness adventure. With great prices on a range of new and pre-owned holiday homes now is the perfect time to discover a hidden gem in the Ribble Valley and your very own, beautiful, family home from home up in the woods.

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Why not pay a visit to the new show ground or call the friendly, helpful staff for more details. Three Rivers Woodland Park, Eaves Hall Lane, West Bradford, Clitheroe, BB7 3JG.

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AVAILABLE FOR SHORT TERM BREAKS AND STAYCATIONS FROM JUNE 2021. For further information please contact Liz T: 07843 375815 E: lizwalmsley1969@gmail.com

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THE RISKS OF COSMETIC DENTISTRY An unexpected side effect of the global pandemic has seen enquiries for cosmetic dentistry procedures skyrocket but with these types of procedures, there are often hidden risks, explains Jane Chadwick, medical negligence specialist at Farleys

n what has been dubbed the ‘Zoomboom’, after people reported criticisms of their own appearance as a result of spending more time looking at themselves on video calls, the cosmetic dentistry industry is experiencing an increase in popularity as practices begin to reopen now restrictions are lifting. Patients are seeking treatments ranging from minor procedures such as teeth-whitening and straightening through to more extensive treatments like veneers and crowns. Crowns have become popular with reality stars and influencers of late, leading the everyday person to follow suit, spending thousands of pounds in search of that Instagram-worthy smile. However, some cosmetic dentistry procedures like crowns are highly invasive and irreversible which could leave you with a permanently damaged smile if the procedure is done incorrectly or you are not informed of the consequences and risks involved.

Thorough assessments need to be completed by a professional to advise on the correct treatment and to explain the process but some consultations are still taking place over video calls rather than in-person which brings a potentially higher risk of leading to substandard assessments and negligent treatment.

PATIENTS ARE SEEKING TREATMENTS RANGING FROM MINOR PROCEDURES SUCH AS TEETH-WHITENING AND STRAIGHTENING THROUGH TO MORE EXTENSIVE TREATMENTS LIKE VENEERS AND CROWNS Due to a backlog of patients and enquiries caused by the pandemic, some people are seeking the services of less reputable dentists in a bid to fast-track their treatments so they can have their smiles transformed by the time the world fully reopens again. If you are thinking of undertaking any cosmetic dentistry procedures, you should ensure you

are dealing with a reputable dentist. Check whether they are registered with the General Dental Council which regulates the industry. Remember, the dentist must inform you of the benefits, risks, and any alternative treatments before proceeding. If you have already experienced negligent treatment at the hands of a dentist, it is important you seek advice from a legal professional at the earliest opportunity. Under normal circumstances you need to make a dental negligence claim within three years from the point at which you became aware you may have received negligent treatment. Farleys expert medical negligence team has extensive experience of dealing with claims of dental negligence. n

To discuss your case with a specialist, please call 01254 368040, email: info@farleys.com or visit: farleys.com for more information

lifestyle

ARE YOU SUFFERING FROM ZOOM FACE? Since the pandemic began, millions of people have stopped going into physical offices and began working from home instead. This has meant physical meetings are now replaced with virtual ones. The calls can not only be draining on our brains, but draining on our faces and self-confidence too

e spend hours and hours looking at our colleagues on the screen, and there to one side is our own face staring back at us. Attempting to focus on what others are saying, while being perpetually distracted by our own faces, is impacting our relationship with our appearance.

The perfect selfie is always taken by tilting our heads up and looking side on to the camera yet on a zoom call facial ageing is much more visible as our faces are constantly moving.

THERE ARE HOWEVER SOME SIMPLE THINGS THAT YOU CAN DO AT HOME WHEN SETTING UP A ZOOM CALL The media has actually dubbed this particular phenomenon ‘zoom face’, based on a rise in both men and women seeking out beauty fixes driven by the extra hours spent looking at their filter-free image in virtual meetings. Media reports also claim that there has been a huge surge in people booking appointments for cosmetic injectables, as well as looking into plastic surgery. There are however some simple things that you can do at home when setting up a zoom call, before heading for the injections. If your laptop has a Photobooth function

have a play with that. It shows what the laptop camera sees so you can adjust lighting and angles before zooming. Put the laptop on a high barstool while sitting on a lower chair can create a great angle. The best lighting comes from directly behind the screen at about eye level. So, during the day sit facing the window, choosing a room with no windows at the side to eliminate side-shadows. At night try using an LED ring light set at eye level behind the screen. These are easy to find online and make a huge difference. Most ring light adjusts from cool to warm so you can select the most flattering warm tone setting. These simple tips – angles and lighting – can really help if you’re distracted by your zoom face. Make sure you try them before you make the call for some injectable assistance. The simplest option and perhaps the most effective, could be just to turn your video off and concentrate on the meeting at hand. n

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SEAFRONT

TREATS FOR ALL The Sea Defence Project which opened last summer is a great place to spend the day and enjoy our coast, whether you like water sports, golf, bird watching or just a cake and a coffee. Tim Dixon, the Fylde’s Tourism and Cultural Services Manager shares the delights on offer

he newly renovated sea defences from Fairhaven through to Church Scar at Lytham have been very well received and offer fantastic views across the Ribble estuary and Southport. The scheme was completed in three sections and opened last summer – Church Scar, Granny’s Bay and Fairhaven. Feedback has been excellent and there’s plenty of spaces to stop off, enjoy the view and watch the world go by. At Fairhaven Lake, there is work still underway, supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Renovation includes the café, a new water sports centre and a fantastic adventure playground which has been a real hit with younger visitors, refurbished tennis

with proceeds from Last Night of the Proms event headlined by Russell Watson donated towards the continued restoration of Lytham Hall. Lytham Hall set in its 78 acres always offers something to explore, whether it’s the changing colours of the seasons, a stop off for a delicious cake and coffee, the Leafy Lytham Garden Hub, Antiques and Reclamation Centre or the many events throughout the year – there’s summer outdoor theatre already scheduled in.

courts, new interpretation around the park, plus the recently reopened RSPB Fairhaven Lake Visitor Centre.

OUR NEW WATER SPORTS CENTRE WILL OFFER CANOEING, KAYAKING, STAND UP PADDLE BOARDING AND MORE Our new water sports centre will offer canoeing, kayaking, Stand Up Paddle boarding and more. We have recently reopened our new 18-hole Fairhaven Adventure Golf course which has so far proved to be a real hit with visitors and there’s some local landmarks featured, such as Lytham Hall and Singleton Fire Station, plus a few holes modelled on those at St Annes Old Links Golf Course and Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club. And the popular motorboats will once again be available at Fairhaven Lake. We are starting to see the return of events and now on sale is the WonderHall series of concerts at the stunning Lytham Hall in late August, featuring Sir Tom Jones, Anne-Marie, Jools Holland and many more,

Outside dining has been available for a while now and as we reach the next stages of the government Covid road map, there’s never been a better time to support the fantastic places to eat and drink across Fylde, from the multi award winning Cartford Inn in Little Eccleston to Anatolia Seaview Restaurant in St Annes. With serviced accommodation opening up too, the superb quality of places to stay in Fylde, from Mode Hotel and the Dalmeny in St Annes to the Clifton Arms in Lytham will once again welcome guests, but please, always book directly with the accommodation provider for the best information and rates. n

Tourist Information Desk 01253 658443 discoverfylde.co.uk

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THE E-BIKE SMILE Ribble Cycles is a world beating Lancashire brand – Gail Bailey visited their state-of-the-art new showroom to find out more

rossing three centuries, and still hand assembling bikes, Ribble Cycles are proving that they are a global world class brand. “The company has the same ethos it has always had,” explains Head of Sales and Retail Fraser Hamilton. “We absolutely put our customers’ needs first and know that everyone is unique – at Ribble we ensure that customers leave us with a bike that is their perfect fit, both in terms of dimensions and usage.”

Some famous names that have owned a Ribble are testament to their excellence. Geraint Thomas, Bradley Wiggins and Chris Boardman have all owned a Ribble as well as Head of Product Jamie Burrow, who is a former US Postal Team pro, and now oversees the design of Ribble’s awardwinning bike range. Technology is pivotal to everything the company does and this includes the new showroom which houses Europe’s largest indoor video wall, along with Ribble’s BikeBuilder tool and a digital tablet by each model enabling customers to see immediately each of the bikes’ key features: “Our business model is unique. We recognise that buying a bike is a big purchase and our team, who are all passionate bike enthusiasts, work hard to ensure that customers leave

with the perfect bike for them. Our team aren’t driven by targets – we have a consistent message and customer satisfaction is always our driving force,” Fraser adds.

Lockdown has seen more and more of us revisit or even take up cycling for the first time, and this has been significantly helped by the emergence of a new generation of e-bikes: “There is no longer a stigma around

lifestyle the e-bike,” Fraser says. “They are often the first step for many people, who then either keep them or graduate onto a regular bike. One thing that always gives us the greatest satisfaction is what we call the ‘e-bike smile’ – people can’t help but just beam when they try one out!”

WE ARE ALREADY SEEING INITIATIVES IN MANCHESTER AND ACROSS THE COUNTRY WHICH HOPE TO GET MORE AND MORE PEOPLE CYCLING TO WORK Ribble Cycles have the worlds lightest and most technologically advanced range of electric bikes on the market. “People choose an electric bike for many reasons. It may be a generational thing, a health issue or even just a cyclist who wants to be able to go further at the push of a button – and the beauty of our electric bikes is that you can no longer tell the difference as they look like any other bike. Not a bulky battery in sight! E-bikes are a real problemsolver for many people.”

Fraser gave me a tour of the showroom, so I was able to experience the exceptional service and technology first-hand. There is an array of bikes on display from mountain, road and electric bikes to hybrid and track, and they really do cater for the complete novice right through to the professional. The flagship showroom attracts people from all over the country and it’s easy to see why: “Even though the website is usually the first port of call for most customers the showroom enables them to really have that ‘touch and feel’ experience, to be able to walk around each bike, speak to the team, be sized by an expert and feel confident about their choice,” explains Fraser. Once I had chosen my e-bike, a CGR AL e Road Bike, Fraser demonstrated how easy it was to use the BikeBuilder tool to choose the specific frame, colour, finish, seat, handlebar – and I could even save

my choice, go home and re-visit it online. Customers are able to visit the store or access the virtual showroom team as many times as needed until they feel happy that they have found the right bike. The final purchase is easy to make too – done online or instore – and they can have their bike delivered or collect in person with the

ONE THING THAT ALWAYS GIVES US THE GREATEST SATISFACTION IS WHAT WE CALL THE ‘E-BIKE SMILE’ – PEOPLE CAN’T HELP BUT JUST BEAM WHEN THEY TRY ONE OUT!

confidence that one mechanic has built it from start to finish in Preston. Ribble Cycles are keeping focused on the future and know they are enablers in the market as our work lives change and our passion to reduce our carbon footprint also becomes more important to us all: “We accept that usage in the UK will begin to change for cyclists,” Fraser says. “We are already seeing initiatives in Manchester and across the country which hope to get more and more people cycling to work and using bikes for much more than leisure. This concept will become more common – it’s an exciting time for the cycling sector and an exciting time for us all here at Ribble Cycles.” n

Ribble Cycles Unit 1 Barrow Brook Trade Park Barrow Brook, Clitheroe BB7 9BQ ribblecycles.co.uk Monday to Friday: 9.00-20.00 Saturday: 9.00-18.00 Sunday: 11.00-17.00

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for family courts to follow when deciding whether to enforce these agreements: “The court should give effect to a nuptial agreement that is freely entered into by each party with a full appreciation of its implications unless in the circumstances prevailing it would not be fair to hold the parties to their agreement.” This means it is important that you have both taken independent legal advice before entering into such an agreement. Both parties should understand the full extent of any financial claims they might be giving up by signing an agreement and the extent of the financial position of the other. The needs of both parties and the children will need to be considered. Ultimately, this approach aims to achieve fairness and certainty to

YOUR GUIDE TO PRE-NUPS & POST-NUPS Marsden Rawsthorn solicitors have decades of experience and historic roots within the local community. We have a well-established team of highly qualified and skilled solicitors with a first-class reputation. Photography: Roger Moore

he Family Team at Marsden Rawsthorn in particular are sensitive to the difficult situations you may face. We recognise your needs and circumstances are unique and our aim is to achieve the very best outcome for you. Our focus is on finding the best solution to help you move forward. The Family Law team at Marsden Rawsthorn solicitors takes us through the implications of pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements A pre-nuptial agreement, also known as a pre-nup, is a formal, written agreement between two partners prior to their marriage. It sets out ownership of their belongings including money, assets and property and explains how it will be divided in the event of the breakdown of their marriage. Prenuptial agreements are perceived by some to be unromantic, however, a pre-nup can save time, expense and acrimony should the marriage subsequently break down. Post-nuptial agreements, or post-nups, are essentially the same as prenuptial agreements but they are formed after the

marriage or civil partnership has taken place. Both pre-nups and post-nups consist of a contract, entered into by a couple, setting out their wishes on how the assets of each party, including property, savings and pensions, should be distributed in the event of a divorce, dissolution of civil partnership or death of either party. The aim is to try and keep assets separate rather than allowing them to become mixed together in the ‘matrimonial pot’ – and consequently to minimise the possibility of divorce-related financial disputes ending up in court. Currently post-nuptial agreements are not legally binding in the UK. Courts are not forced to follow the instructions contained in post-nups or pre-nups and will take factors into account at the time of separation and the needs of any children of the marriage. The court will determine how assets should be divided notwithstanding the terms of any postnuptial agreement. However, it is likely that the court will generally take pre-nuptial or post-nuptial agreements into account, so they can still be very useful. The Supreme Court case of Radmacher v Granatino provided guidance

couples, to alleviate any potential disputes that may arise. The experienced team at Marsden Rawsthorn offer guidance on preparing pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements for those planning to marry or who are already married, as well as cohabitation agreements for couples who elect to live together. Properly written, legal agreements help to protect property and assets in the unfortunate event of the death of a partner or the breakdown of the relationship and separation. n

Pictured: The Family Team – Amanda Long, Lauren Townson and Lyndsey Kiley (from L-R in the top left image)

If you would like to arrange an appointment, call 0800 294 4410 or alternatively email: info@marsdenrawsthorn.com

Marsden Rawsthorn Solicitors Ltd Faraday Court, Faraday Drive Fulwood, Preston PR2 9NB Westmarch House 42 Eaton Avenue, Buckshaw Village Chorley PR7 7NA 0800 294 4410 marsdenrawsthorn.com

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r Booth is the Chairman and CEO of Booths which has its headquarters in Preston. Having recently been sworn into the role Mr Booth stated that he would be focusing his efforts in the year-long appointment in three key areas: crime, homelessness and education. The role itself is a non-political role offering support to the Crown and the judiciary alongside crime prevention agencies, emergency services and the voluntary sector. He is no stranger to the role having been Deputy Lieutenant of Lancashire since 2005. Upon his appointment Mr Booth said: “It is a privilege to be recognised for this role and I want to celebrate everything that is good about Lancashire, a county my family has called home for nearly 200 years. There is a great deal of opportunity in Lancashire, and it is my wish to give others the same inspiration and chance to succeed that I have been fortunate to receive.”

IT IS A PRIVILEGE TO BE RECOGNISED FOR THIS ROLE AND I WANT TO CELEBRATE EVERYTHING THAT IS GOOD ABOUT LANCASHIRE

THERE’S A NEW SHERIFF IN TOWN! Edwin Booth CBE DL has been appointed High Sheriff of Lancashire. We offer our congratulations to Edwin on his appointment by Her Majesty the Queen to the office of High Sheriff of Lancashire for 2021-2022

Many of the issues Mr Booth is looking to tackle are linked to ever increasing poverty in the region with more reliance on food banks and other welfare resources than ever before. The pandemic has escalated these problems but also brought to light many social and economic issues the county needs to tackle head on. Many of these vital resources are currently operated by charitable organisations with very little funding and often rely on the kindness of their volunteers. Hopefully with the help of Mr Booth and his local knowledge and influence, he can make a real difference to Lancashire during his time in office. We are hoping to sit down with Mr Booth over the coming months and we would like to put your questions to him about what action he intends to take and what the plan is going forward. What changes would you like to see in your area? Do you and your children have access to the right education and support systems for your needs? Is rising crime and anti-social behaviour an issue in your community? Let us know and we’ll put your questions directly to the High Sheriff. n Send your questions to us via our social media, or email the editor at: helen.sanderson@live-magazines.co.uk

Imagine... A magical private wedding in the Lake District Enter through electric gates to discover this beautiful sanctuary in the Lake District. Surrounded by stunning woodland in the heart of a hundred acre estate, Gilpin Lake House is quiet, untouched, and devoid of traffic or people – a place to forget about everything. Perfect for both small and large weddings, the Lake House is fully serviced with Relais & Châteaux trained staff and Michelin starred chefs, and our dedicated team balance warmth and friendliness with extraordinary service, exquisite décor and stunning culinary experiences. With its own lake and pool, the house and grounds provide an inspiring and peaceful location with an abundance of natural beauty. Set on three levels with a beautiful entrance and sweeping staircase, the interiors are stylish, comfortable and warm, with a touch of home. The six sumptuous bedrooms are individually designed and furnished, with crisp white linen, exquisite fabrics, wonderful upholstery, and delicious art. The lounge is scattered with sofas, armchairs and bookcases, and the huge adjoining conservatory has floor to ceiling glass on two sides; both rooms overlook the private lake. On the lower floor the heated indoor pool and sauna lead to the lake, cedarwood hot and gardens. Elsewhere in the grounds there are kitchen gardens, a boat house, mature woodland, moorland, grassland, wild ponds, and a lovely walk with 360° panoramic views of the Lake District, including Coniston and the Llangdales in the distance.

We hope to welcome you to Gilpin soon.

love ◦ laughter ◦ happily ever after

Gilpin Hotel & Lake House ◦ Windermere ◦ 015394 88818 ◦ hotel@thegilpin.co.uk ◦ www.thegilpin.co.uk

lifestyle How will funds be distributed? I’ll set out a police and crime plan over the next few months, consulting with the public and the force on their priorities, and that will determine how I allocate the budgets. I’m working with the Chief Constable on where there might be efficiencies we can make and where we can then prioritise that funding. I’m having a briefing in the operational control centre this afternoon, so I can see how that works and understand it so when I’m setting budgets and priorities with the Chief Constable I know what is achievable and what the police need my backing on.

OUR PEOPLE ARE TRUE AMBASSADORS FOR REAL DIFFERENCE IN THE COMMUNITIES IN THEY LIVE THEIR LIVES

LEADING THE FIGHT AGAINST CRIME Sarah Varley speaks to the new Lancashire Police & Crime Commissioner, Andrew Snowden on how he plans to support the Chief Constable and lead the fight against crime Congratulations on your new role.What should Preston & Fylde residents expect from you during your time as Police & Crime Commissioner? Thank you! As Police & Crime Commissioner I will be passionately leading the fight on crime. It’s still a relatively new role and some people are still sceptical, but I think it comes down to who holds the role. If done well by someone who genuinely wants to make a difference, the role can have real value in shaping public safety and that’s what I hope to achieve. I’m here because I want to see a much tougher, nononsense approach to getting criminals off our streets. How do you plan to deliver on this? I will be starting afresh with a whole new policing and crime plan, focusing on getting tough on crime and cracking down on criminals.Too often we see offenders getting off lightly and excuses being made for repeat offenders. I want to start working with national Government around sentencing

and the criminal justice system. A good start has been made with a number of bills going through at the moment but we need to do much more on the sentencing side.

How do you intend to tackle concerns about an increase of organised crime coming into Lancashire? I’ve already had a good conversation with the Chief Constable about protecting our Lancashire borders and repelling crime coming in from elsewhere at the point it crosses our borders. The Chief and Deputy Chief Constable are very aware of this issue and that is something I will be fully backing them up on. We have dedicated units tackling serious organised crimes such as county lines gangs. It will require continuous hammering to disrupt and dismantle their networks. It is not going to be fixed overnight, and certainly not with a light-hearted approach. It’s going to be a tough nut to crack so we’re going to have to keep hammering it and that is what the police will have my 100 per cent backing in doing. No excuses or exceptions will be made for these criminals, these are dangerous people who should not be on our streets. n The Office of the PCC for Lancashire County Hall, Preston PR1 0LD 01772 533587 commissioner@lancashire-pcc.gov.uk lancashire-pcc.gov.uk

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LIFETIME GIFTS Jane Burbidge of Forbes solicitors explains the complex rules around lifetime gifting and how it may reduce the amount of inheritance tax you pay

nheritance tax (IHT) is a tax on the estate (property, money and possessions) of someone who has died, it can also be payable when making certain lifetime gifts. Most people who think their estate would be liable to IHT want to pay the least amount of tax possible when they die and want to look at what they can do to achieve that, not only in their Wills but also during their lifetime. For most people the two main ways of reducing their estate for IHT purposes on their death are to either spend more or make gifts. Whilst spending more sounds like a fun way of reducing your estate, it can be quite difficult – strange as it may seem, a lot of people say they aren’t actually very good at spending money – making gifts to their loved ones however is a different matter. Making lifetime gifts may reduce the amount of IHT payable on your death. However, there are specific rules which must be followed and criteria to be met in order for the gift to be effective for IHT purposes.

There are a number of gifts which can be made which are free of IHT immediately. Everyone can make gifts of up to £3,000 every year.You can also make regular gifts out of income, provided you have established some element of regularity or pattern of giving and you still have sufficient income to maintain your usual standard of living, then the gifts will be entirely exempt. Other gifts to individuals are potentially exempt transfers (PETs). These gifts can be of any amount and if you survive seven years after making the gift, it becomes exempt from IHT. Gifts to trusts can be a useful tax planning exercise where you do not wish to pass over complete control of an asset, for example to a child or vulnerable person. Such gifts are immediate chargeable transfers and may face an immediate charge to IHT (at reduced lifetime rates) as soon as you make the gift and a further charge if you die within seven years. The tax rules surrounding gifts and IHT are complex and there are various traps to avoid. If you give an asset away but still receive a benefit from it – for example if you give your house to your children but you continue to live there rent-free, the reservation of benefit rules apply and you may still be treated as owning the property when you die. There are complex pre-owned asset income tax rules which may take effect where the reservation of benefit rules do not apply.

For example, if you sold your house, gave the proceeds of sale to your child, your child then buys a house and you later live in that property, you may be subject to an income tax charge on a deemed market rent. If you give an asset away and later require residential or nursing care, the local authority may look to apply the deprivation of asset rules when carrying out a financial assessment to determine your contribution to the cost of your care. If it can be proved that the main reason for making the gift was to avoid paying care fees, you may be treated as if you still owned that asset for the purpose of the financial assessment. A gift of assets such as shares or a holiday home for example would be a disposal for capital gains tax purposes. If the value of the asset has increased since you acquired it, you could be subject to an immediate charge to tax. Lifetime giving can reduce the IHT payable on death so that your loved ones inherit the maximum amount from your estate. However, you need to ensure the gifts have the desired effect and do not create unforeseen issues and additional tax liabilities. n

To discuss lifetime gifts, please contact Jane Burbidge: jane.burbidge@forbessolicitors.co.uk or contact 01772 220022

WHATEVER THE MOMENT, WE’RE IN IT

forbessolicitors.co.uk

01772 220 022

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

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A REPUTATION SECOND TO NONE

’m often asked whether the reputation the Ribble Valley has for food and drink is hype or richly deserved. I can confirm without any hesitation that we do indeed have a cornucopia of amazing eateries. National press and food and travel journalists including Jay Rayner are frequent visitors and have helped promote an already burgeoning reputation for food and drink. Recently the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastro Pubs were announced with two of our pubs featuring in the Top 10. The Ribble Valley has built its reputation by many of the restaurants drawing on its rich larder of local produce and we have a whole host of other award winning cafes and gastro pubs, along with our very own Michelin restaurant – Northcote. Recent additions for wining and dining include the emergence of a terrific selection of wine and cask ale bars. In Clitheroe itself the fabulous food hall showcases the very finest of Lancashire fare. There are also plenty of new accommodation options popping up to complete a weekend or

Just a short drive away is the Ribble Valley, an area synonymous with beautiful scenery, fabulous food and so much more, writes Tedd Walmsley mid-week break. We are not just about food though – our market towns of Clitheroe and Longridge boast many local independent shops offering a vast array of diverse

WITH COUNTLESS WALKS, TAKING IN DOG FRIENDLY AND MUDDY-BOOT WELCOMING PUBS AND CAFES products. Neighbouring village Whalley has always had a reputation for high end retail and has a host of great places to eat and drink too. Award winning lifestyle garden centres often with food to match are also to be found dotted across the valley. The countryside around the towns is

second to none. With countless walks, taking in dog friendly and muddy-boot welcoming pubs and cafes and a myriad of local villages steeped in history and waiting to be explored. As summer approaches our historic houses are also well worth a visit but I would advise you to check out their individual websites for opening times, events and even details of accommodation. Events will of course be more limited this summer, but as lockdown eases, I’m sure many smaller events will happen alongside the amazing Royal Lancashire Show. Lastly, there is plenty of good oldfashioned fun to entertain the kids, exploring the woods and riverbanks combined with wet day activities. With summer just around the corner come and join us and see what all the fuss is about. n

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the steepest in the area, we encountered a group of club cyclists punishing themselves up the gruelling climb. We eased past them like we were riding on the flat and received some friendly banter about cheating on an e-bike! As we left them to their struggle, we replied: “No this isn’t cheating guys, this is the future!” Onwards we travelled on what must be some of the quietest and safest lanes anywhere, it was like going back in time as we hardly saw a car. The route took in some of the region’s beautiful villages such as Slaidburn, Whitewell and Chipping where we stopped off at a local pub for a refreshing drink.

A GREAT DAY OUT! If you are looking for an experience with a difference, then look no further than Ribble Valley E Bikes

ased in Dunsop Bridge in the heart of the Forest of Bowland, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Ribble Valley E Bikes is only a 15 minute drive from Clitheroe. It was easy to book our e-bike experience with a simple phone call or you can book online. On arrival we parked the car in the free car park behind the shop and we were greeted by Wilbur the friendly black Labrador, who alerted Roger the owner of our arrival. Our e-bikes were ready and waiting for us and Roger’s attention to detail was second to none – typical of the personal touch you only get from a family run business. All the bikes available for hire are of the highest quality and feature powerful and efficient Bosch or Yamaha motors. We were given a quick lesson on how to use our e-bikes, which are so simple to operate. Roger then used his extensive expert knowledge of the Forest of Bowland to tailor a route that would be suitable for our level of ability. We were provided with a free map of the route and our helmets and off we went on our adventure! The route that Roger gave us was absolutely perfect and saw us venture out into some of the most unspoilt beautiful

What a fantastic day out we had and one that we would recommend to anyone. The quality bikes supplied by Ribble Valley E Bikes at a very reasonable price, made the day a real pleasure. Once you have experienced the pleasure of e-bike riding you will almost certainly want one of your own. Look no further than Ribble Valley E Bikes where once again Roger and the team can provide you with the expertise to make the right choice for your needs. They stock a wide range of top-quality bikes at really competitive prices. You can even try before you buy and the hire cost will be deducted from the price when you make a purchase. What more can you ask from a first class, local family run business. n

YOU CAN EVEN TRY BEFORE YOU BUY AND THE HIRE COST WILL BE DEDUCTED FROM THE PRICE WHEN YOU MAKE A PURCHASE countryside that this country has to offer. Around every corner we encountered stunning views of the Forest of Bowland and Ribble Valley. The e-bikes made it a pleasure to be out and dealt with the Bowland uphill climbs with ease. On one particular hill on Easington Lane, one of

Ribble Valley E-Bikes Ltd Dunsop Bridge Clitheroe BB7 3BB 01200 426246 ribblevalley-e-bikes.co.uk

CYCLE SAFARI… E Discover the beautiful Ribble Valley and Forest of Bowland by electric bike with James’ Places

xplore the quiet byways and country lanes in the heart of the Ribble Valley on a state-of-the-art electrically assisted e-bike – what better way to enjoy the great outdoors! With a range of up to 60 miles, a state-ofthe-art e-bike is the perfect solution to exploring the countryside on two wheels and the James’ Places Group of country inns can arrange fully charged bikes to be ready to roll when you check-in to any of their Ribble Valley locations. Andrew Bailey, James’ Places Digital Marketing Manager, explains: “We are absolutely delighted to bring our guests this new experience. This is a great collaboration between James’ Places and Ribble Valley E-Bikes –we have come together to bring this concept to visitors so they can enjoy the beautiful countryside and any of James’ Places venues. “They can arrange a single day or embark on one of the two-day safaris enjoying a two-night, two-hotel stay – cycling during the day and enjoying dinner at their chosen hotels in the evening.”

James’ Places can provide delivery and collection plus concierge luggage transfer – and all bikes come complete with back-up services from an expert technician, who will ensure the bikes are fully charged and serviced on delivery.

“The concierge service makes a terrific difference – at the end of their stay guests will also be driven back with their luggage to their base hotel. They don’t have to worry about a thing. It’s a unique experience and a reason to embark on a staycation this summer.” Road, hybrid and off-road e-MTB bikes are all available to hire plus James’ Places can also provide advice on routes and enroute pit stops plus a rescue service if you

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suffer an unrepairable puncture or technical issue with the bike. James’ Places can also deliver e-MTBs to the extensive Gisburn Forest Mountain Biking Centre, where you can explore miles of traffic-free woodland trails offering varying degrees of challenge – from beginner to expert!

the bikes will be charged overnight so they are ready for you to continue your journey after a hearty breakfast. James’ Places can also provide single centre itineraries that incorporate circular rides.

ONE DAY E-BIKE HIRE

Book an e-bike for delivery direct to your James’ Places hotel to start the day in the saddle exploring the Ribble Valley. No need to worry about recharging – the battery range should be adequate for all but the most ambitious explorers.

TWO-DAY CYCLE SAFARIS E-BIKE PARTNER James’ Places e-bikes are supplied by Ribble Valley E-bike Hire which is based in the beautiful village of Dunsop Bridge in the heart of the Forest of Bowland – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). As well as delivering and collecting the bikes, a qualified technician will also do a full hand-over and be available to offer technical support via mobile phone.

Secure the exclusive use of a pair of e-bikes to explore over the course of a two-day, two-hotel stay. Your bikes will be ready to roll on check-in and James’ Places will create an itinerary which takes you from hotel to hotel via some attractive stopovers and popular visitor attractions. Your hotel will provide packed lunches for scenic roadside picnics or point you in the direction of pubs and cafes where you’re assured of a warm welcome. Upon return, while you dive into a reviving bath followed by a relaxed evening meal,

GISBURN FOREST MTB TRAILS

Explore miles of traffic-free woodland trails offering varying degrees of challenge – from beginner to expert standard. Navigate a complex network of cycle trails to emerge at the summit of Whelp Stone Crag to admire sensational views of the Forest of Bowland and Yorkshire Dales. To make the most of your day, we recommend you make your own way to the Forest Hub, where your e-bikes will be ready for you.

GUIDED GROUP TOURS

James’ Places can arrange bespoke guided rides and multi-day tours of the area led by experienced guides. Groups of up to six people and larger groups by special arrangement. n

To plan your James’ Places cycle safari visit: jamesplaces.com/e-bike-hire

THE ULTIMATE IN LUXURY & STYLE Sarah Varley catches up with the Everything Retreat team as they add the final touches to the brand new luxurious woodland hideaway in Mellor. Photography: Kirsten Platt

Guests will also be able to experience every luxury they could want via the in-house concierge service, with breakfast hampers, cheese boards, afternoon tea and dinner with champagne for guests and a chauffeur service for those wanting to eat out.

s The Everything Retreat launches this summer, founder and CEO Louise Monk will see her dream project unfold in the form of a luxury woodland lodge retreat featuring private hot tubs and beautiful gardens coupled with an exclusive concierge service, all surrounded by spectacular countryside in the heart of the Ribble Valley. The Everything Retreat features 12 exclusive cedarwood lodges with each lodge offering stunning open plan living with log burners, comfy sofas, bespoke kitchens, sumptuous beds and crisp linen, along with full length glass windows with panoramic views overlooking the stunning Ribble Valley. Each lodge represents the ultimate in luxury and style where every detail has been considered, providing the perfect setting for a peaceful and quiet break away.

THIS EXCITING DEVELOPMENT WILL ALLOW DISCERNING GUESTS TO IMMERSE THEMSELVES IN UNIQUE SURROUNDINGS The development build is on schedule and The Everything Retreat will be ready to welcome guests this summer. Bookings will be accepted from May, with the website launching imminently. Bespoke

interior designs have been conceptualised and furnishing is in progress, with each unique interior being finished to the most exquisite standard. Landscaping is the next priority with the planting of trees and shrubs underway. The team are busy creating a haven for wildlife and beautifully themed garden areas for guests to enjoy. Attracting a diverse range of wildlife is close to the team’s heart with owl nesting boxes, hedgehog boxes and a large nature-filled pond all in progress. Rest and relaxation begins upon arrival. Guests can simply park up and enjoy the welcoming reception area with complimentary drinks and homemade treats from local artisans. A golf buggy ride through the quiet seclusion of the countryside transports guests to their chosen lodge. “The Everything Retreat has been designed for the ultimate experience for our guests,” says Louise. “I have taken inspiration from some of my favourite corners of the world and brought them all together to create this luxury development. The amount of hard work and planning we have been doing over the last six months is really beginning to take shape. I am delighted with the progress so far and I’m so lucky to have an incredible team with Kelly and Daniel on board and also the fantastic contractors and skilled tradesmen who have worked tirelessly to make this dream come true.” Kelly Slater, The Everything Retreat’s

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THE EVERYTHING RETREAT LAUNCHING SUMMER 2021! BOOKINGS BEING TAKEN FROM MAY A luxurious woodland retreat featuring every luxury you can imagine!

07816 229617 Business Development Manager, adds: “I’m really excited to be working with Louise to help her realise her unique vision. There is so much going on at the moment with planning, designing and building and we are so lucky to have such an amazing team on site.” Daniel Smith, Brand and Creative Director, explains: “I’m incredibly excited to be working on this project with Louise and her team. Being able to use my 10 years’ experience in hospitality and events to help bring Louise’s vision to life has been amazing and I am excited to show everyone the final product.”

I HAVE TAKEN INSPIRATION FROM SOME OF MY FAVOURITE CORNERS OF THE WORLD AND BROUGHT THEM ALL TOGETHER TO CREATE THIS LUXURY DEVELOPMENT This exciting development will allow discerning guests to immerse themselves in unique surroundings, enjoying the unbeatable combination of impeccable attention to detail of each lodge and the treasure trove of experiences the Ribble Valley has to offer. The Everything Retreat team are now working on creating partnerships with key local businesses to build relationships and ultimately enhance their guest experience. n

EVERYTHING retreat

The Everything Retreat 07816 229617

THE SHOW GOES ON!

he organisers of the Royal Lancashire Agricultural Show are delighted to announce that the event will take place this year. It was with great disappointment to everyone that the 2020 show had to be cancelled due to Covid. However, they have been paying close attention to the various Government announcements and are now confident that the event can be held safely for everyone to enjoy. The 2021 Show will once again be held within the beautiful grounds of the Salesbury Hall Estate alongside the River Ribble near Ribchester on the 30th, 31st July and 1st August. Arrangements are forging ahead and as in previous years, there will be a huge variety of entertainment with a very substantial livestock section including cattle, sheep,

The Royal Lancashire Agricultural Show, which is one of the oldest in the country, is set to go ahead this summer in the stunning rural grounds of the Salesbury Hall Estate

THE VERY POPULAR AND WELL-ESTABLISHED CHILDREN’S VILLAGE AND THE ARMY WILL BE THERE WITH A LARGE DISPLAY OF VEHICLES

rabbits, goats, pigs and poultry and an extremely large Showing section and there will also be top class showjumping. The very popular and well-established Children’s Village and the Army will be there once again with a large display of vehicles and firearms. Also, at the show there will be: • Jousting Knights • Gundog scurry • Fishing displays • Falconry • Ferrets • Shetland pony Grand Prix

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• • • • • • • •

Family dog ring Shooting gallery Vintage tractors Classic cars Prosecco and Pimms bar Food hall Craft marquee Lifestyle marquee

EARLY BIRD TICKETS Friday 30th July: Family ticket – £25 (two adults and two children) Adults – £12 Senior – £8 Children – £3 Children under five – Free

Saturday 31st July and Sunday 1st August: Family ticket – £30 (two adults and two children) Adults – £15 Senior – £10 Children – £5 Children under five – Free Photography: Sonya Kate

There are many exhibitors coming to the show so there will be plenty of opportunities to treat yourself. Bowland Brewery will again have a large marquee with live music,

Alternatively, you could become a society member at a very modest price. This would give you free entrance to the Members’ Marquee which is situated by the main arena with its own bar and light refreshments served throughout the day. Call or visit the website to join.

serving a selection of their finest beers. In addition, many of Lancashire’s finest gin distillers will be joining the event. You won’t go hungry either as there will be a wide selection of different food offerings too.

BOWLAND BREWERY WILL AGAIN HAVE A LARGE MARQUEE WITH LIVE MUSIC, SERVING A SELECTION OF THEIR FINEST BEERS The organisers would be delighted for you to come and join them at one of the of the oldest agricultural shows in the UK. n

01254 814712 www.royallancashireshow.co.uk

BE INSPIRED… Come rain or shine, Holden Clough is a place where visitors are inspired by the beautifully curated plants and the stunning collections of homeware, pots, glassware, plants and vintage memorabilia. Photography: Kirsten Platt

ime spent at Holden Clough Nursery is always magical no matter what the season, and as spring blossoms into summer, buds start to bloom and everything comes to life – there’s no better time to visit! Novice and experienced gardeners will love the new developments that have evolved around this four-acre, family-run nursery, which is tucked away in the pretty hamlet of Holden. From a new summer menu in the Shepherd’s Hut to an eclectic collection of vintage and contemporary collectables in the Garden Room, the Holden Clough experience is ultimately relaxing. Wander through the pretty shale pathways to the sound of the birds and bees, sit quietly on a bench with a warm drink and watch the world go by – or visit the stunning larch

clad Potting Shed featuring everything you need for the gardening world including trugs and trowels, secateurs and watering cans, fertilisers and fungicides, and for junior gardeners there are children’s gardening tools, den building kits and activity sets to make outdoor play so much fun! The Potting Shed is also where it all begins, a place where you can watch thousands of young plants in their new beginnings. This spring the original Frame Yard, which was built with the nursery in 1927, has come alive with a wonderful show of plants and, new to Holden Clough, are David Austin roses – rambling and shrub. Renowned for their beautiful, often many petalled, repeat flowering blooms and rich fragrances, David Austin roses grace prestigious gardens around the world, so if you want a very special addition to your garden, they make a fantastic focal point. It is within the Frame Yard that your choice of plant is made easy as they are

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grouped by association so you can find a plant that will thrive. The inspirational plant collections are carefully curated to give you perfect planting combinations for beautiful borders from spring through to summer and beyond. Choose from cottage garden, wildlife friendly, shade loving and of course, the classic white garden collection. All the plants and shrubs at Holden Clough are of the highest quality and grown to withstand the unpredictable northern weather so you can be sure that you are getting only the very best when buying for your garden.

Moving on to Holden Clough’s Glasshouse which continues to showcase vintage furniture, beautiful mirrors and lighting from Europe, house plants and terrariums as well as more exotic orchids, lemon trees and cactus – the plant selection is second to none!

Also new and exclusive to Holden Clough are Pots and Pithoi, a manufacturer that produces a wonderful selection of Cretan terracotta pots available in different shapes and sizes. Stunningly handcrafted and frost resistant, the world-renowned terracotta pots will add beauty and form to any outside space. The pots are capable of withstanding the harshest of UK winters due to the unique blend of clay and the way they are fired – at high temperature using crushed olive stones and grape seeds. The Pots and Pithoi brand is also a favourite with the Royals, Prince Charles is rumoured to have chosen the Pots and Pithoi Honeypot for the gardens of Highgrove. Always mindful of safety, a visit to Holden Clough is a quiet oasis of calm – and in times when people are looking to create relaxing work spaces in their gardens, Croft Pods have a fully kitted out pod for viewing. If you’re feeling peckish you can stroll through the nursery grounds to the Shepherd’s Hut where you will find a mouth-watering selection of hot and cold

WEEKEND MARKETS AT HOLDEN CLOUGH STRAWBERRY MARKET: 9th, 10th & 11th July 9am - 5pm DAHLIA MARKET: 20th, 21st & 22nd August 9am - 5pm Booking is essential via the website Visit: holdencloughnursery.com

dishes and snacks. From buddha bowls to Scotch eggs and delicious stews, visitors can look forward to curry Mondays and pie Fridays – all equally delicious! Looking to the future, Holden Clough is set to hold two summer markets Strawberry and Dahlia, when artisan producers will gather in the outdoor pergola that has been especially adapted so visitors feel safe in the charming new marketplace. Booking for the weekend markets is essential and this can be done via the Holden Clough website.

So, what are you waiting for? As spring unfolds into summer, visit Holden Clough for a wonderful outdoor experience – the beautifully curated collections of plants and memorabilia, will boost your senses and enliven your day. n

Holden Clough Nursery Holden, Bolton-by-Bowland BB7 4PF 01200 447615 holdencloughnursery.com

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THE SOUND OF SILENCE

Photography: Sarah Valentine

Tedd and Liz Walmsley take getting away from it all to a whole new level as they escape for a night in a cosy and tranquil woodland glade hideaway. Tedd share’s his experience of Browsholme Hall

’m easily distracted when writing articles and reviews – colleagues, phones and family interruptions often mean a stop-start approach to my writing – well not today! Liz has just left our lovely lodge in the glade here at Browsholme and I sit with coffee, birdsong and the dog for company. For those of you who have not had the pleasure of visiting Browsholme Hall – let me put this into context for you. Browsholme Hall was built in 1381 and has been owned by the same family for the entire time – its set in the Forest of Bowland in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The relative recent addition of the lodges initially filled a need for accommodation to support Browsholme’s fabulous wedding venue – Tithe Barn. Weddings primarily take place at the weekends and midweek lodge breaks are now available and appeal to a wide cross section of clients. On arriving I was struck by the peace and tranquillity of the Woodland Glade – so far removed from our normal surroundings. If like me, birds and wildlife are your thing, it was a rare opportunity to immerse myself in the birdsong and breathe in the clean fresh air – a real boost for both mind and body and a welcome distraction from day-to-day life.

We were staying in one of the superior lodges which is dog friendly – it was well appointed with an en-suite shower room, sitting area and fully equipped kitchenette. As you can see I loved the large decking area and even returned to my boy scout days by building a fire as we embraced a cool May evening. We chose to relax and brought with us a selection of meats and cheese and of course a rich deep red wine – with no television and no other distractions we talked and ate well into the evening – true relaxation. There is Wi-Fi for those who need it but for once we chose to ignore this and switched off our phones just for the night.

A REAL BOOST FOR BOTH MIND AND BODY AND A WELCOME DISTRACTION FROM DAY-TO-DAY LIFE After an undisturbed sleep we awoke to a dawn chorus like no other – my first coffee shared with rabbits, pheasants and songbirds – even an inquisitive deer could be seen through the trees – could you think of a more perfect start to a Thursday morning – I know I couldn’t. Customer feedback has created a host of add-ons to make your stay even more perfect – picnic hampers, barbecues and

lifestyle even hot chocolate – and marshmallows to toast on an open fire – and some fairy lights to complete the romantic ambience. The lodges appeal to a diverse range of visitors from the ‘outdoors type’ consisting of walkers and cyclists along with families and friends wanting to spend quality time with each other – they all rub shoulder to shoulder with the newly weds I mentioned earlier. Once open the café close to the lodges will serve a selection of breakfasts, snacks and afternoon teas to suit every appetite, this will be a cracking addition to the facilities already on site.

THE GROUNDS, GARDENS AND LAKES ARE SIMPLY STUNNING AND AVAILABLE FOR YOU TO EXPLORE I also wanted to be clear about Browsholme’s stunning location whilst unashamedly tranquil there is so much to enjoy right on the doorstep. I’d recommend a tour of the hall itself by current owner Robert Parker – a fascinating insight into our local history and that of the Parker family. The grounds, gardens and lakes are simply stunning and available for you to explore. The bustling market towns of Clitheroe and Longridge are a short car journey away and offer an ever-increasing selection of local independent shops to browse and places to grab a bite to eat. Many of you will have heard of the reputation that the Ribble Valley has for food and drink and you will be tempted with a selection of award-winning eateries to suit every appetite and budget. With plenty of other villages steeped in history to explore and a host of great walks and bike rides to keep the more energetic of you happy, there’s also parks, castles, farms and cinemas to entertain the little ones. It would be fair to say I had to be torn away from our lodge and whisked back to the reality of being a magazine publisher. I do hope I’ve managed to capture the essence of these beautiful bijou woodland glade lodges and hope that in the next couple of months you, along with maybe some family or friends, might be able to find an excuse to go and surround yourself with nature. n Please check out the website for latest availability, opening times and events

browsholme.com

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EXCLUSIVE NEW GOURMET MENU… Northcote chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen is delighted that diners will be able to enjoy her new seasonal gourmet menu now the renowned restaurant has finally opened its doors

here are legions of Northcote fans across the UK, who couldn’t wait to see the Michelin-starred restaurant open its doors again and will be thrilled to hear that executive chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen and her talented brigade are back in the kitchen and ready to welcome diners! The past year at Northcote presented an interesting challenge for Lisa and the team, who stepped up to the mark to create an alternative dining experience – Northcote at Home gourmet boxes. “It has been amazing,” says Lisa. “I am very proud of the

Northcote at Home boxes. It kept the Northcote name out there and we were so well supported. It was truly remarkable.” During their most successful period with the gourmet boxes, in the run up to Christmas, Northcote was sending out around 500 a week, delivering throughout the UK.

“We didn’t really know what to expect at the time, but people really got behind us and for that, we are truly grateful. People loved them and it also presented us with an opportunity to adapt, learn and develop,” adds Lisa. As the restaurant re-opens, Northcote at Home boxes will be scaled down to 100, as Lisa

LISA AND HER TALENTED BRIGADE ARE BACK IN THE KITCHEN AND READY TO WELCOME DINERS

explains: “I think the demand will still be there. People still want a special date night treat.” With a new restaurant menu now launched, Lisa is looking forward to connecting with Northcote’s leading suppliers, producers and artisans: “It’s like going from one mile an hour to 100 in a short space of time! Our menus are always based on seasonality and at the moment there’s so much coming into season – we are on the cusp of summer – think Jersey Royals, lighter cuts of meat, poussin, shellfish and it’s also lobster time too. “I have been making contact with the suppliers and working closely with them to see what they have.” With some of the 60-strong team furloughed and others kept on to work with Lisa on the

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LISA’S FIVE-COURSE GOURMET MENU Capturing the spirit of the season, as you embark on a culinary journey through five stunning courses. gourmet boxes, Northcote is gradually bringing the whole team back together: “We have kept in contact with all staff members and we all got together to look at

the new menu before the grand opening – easing them back into the kitchen and ramping things up so we were firing on all cylinders when we opened.”

Samantha Broadley Photography Samantha Broadley Photography Samantha Broadley Photography Samantha Broadley Photography Samantha Samantha Broadley Broadley Photography Photography

Samantha Broadley Photography Samantha Broadley Photography Samantha Broadley Photography

CHEF’S TABLE GOURMET LUNCH

Samantha Broadley Photography

Experience the Chef ’s Table and take the best seats in the house. Fun and exclusive, it’s your opportunity to witness all the culinary action as the chefs create their masterpieces!

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Wedding stor

Telephone: 01254 240 555 | Email: events@northcote.com | www.northcote.com @NorthcoteUK | /NorthcoteUK | northcoteuk

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lifestyle

CREATE YOUR OWN MINI-STAYCATION Behind the scenes the team at the Red Pump have been hard at work in readiness for reopening next month. Photography: Kirsten Platt

he Red Pump Inn, which enjoys breath-taking views over Bowland, has over the years evolved to provide its diners with first class food in its renowned steak restaurant, the finest cask ales behind the bar, an extensive outdoor terrace and beer garden and accommodation in the form of luxury French-inspired boutique rooms, charming shepherd’s huts and cosy glamping yurts in the grounds. The Red Pump’s Jonathan and Fran Gledhill are always mindful that visitors to the inn, which was built in 1759, expect nothing but the best. “We are finding that we are getting more and more enquiries from people who want to come to the Red Pump, enjoy one of our famous 40-day dry-aged steaks, a glass of wine and stay overnight. As people can’t take their usual holiday abroad and many UK destinations are booked up, they are staying local to enjoy a mini staycation.” Taking time during lockdown to spruce up the interior with a new oak floor, Jonathan and Fran have also been building new shepherd huts located behind the pub in an elevated position with stunning views of Pendle Hill.

All the huts sleep two people, have a king size bed, en-suite, fully fitted kitchen, cooker and hob and can be let out for self-catering breaks or overnight stays – with the added bonus of breakfast and dinner available at the inn. Fully insulated with sheep’s wool and with central heating, the huts are a cosy hideaway for a romantic break.

WE ARE GETTING MORE AND MORE ENQUIRIES FROM PEOPLE WHO WANT TO COME TO THE RED PUMP, ENJOY ONE OF OUR FAMOUS 40-DAY DRY-AGED STEAKS, A GLASS OF WINE AND STAY OVERNIGHT

Take a walk through the shale paths in the gardens behind the Red Pump and you will come to the private glamping area, where traditional, yet luxurious, yurts await. Suitable for families or couples, each yurt comes with its own en-suite with powered shower, king size bed and a day bed that can be split into two singles. Outside each yurt has its own decking area with a wood fired chimenea, where guests can enjoy a barbecue or just appreciate the warmth and glow of the flames. “The yurts are a real treat for visitors who like the outdoors – camping with comfort. What better way to start a break than sleeping under the stars on a blissfully quiet summer’s night,” says Jonathan, who is looking forward to welcoming guests back to the historic inn. Glamping in the yurts is open to guests from April to September. The inn’s restaurant is open to guests for food and drink from 19th May. The boutique rooms and shepherd huts are open to guests from 19th May. For diners, for couples and for families, the Red Pump represents that most sought-after combination – a warm friendly welcome, luxury accommodation and first class food in a stunning location. n

THE RED PUMP INN OPEN 19th MAY! 01254 826227 theredpumpinn.co.uk

The Red Pump Inn Clitheroe Road Bashall Eaves, Clitheroe BB7 3DA 01254 826227 theredpumpinn.co.uk @theredpumpinn @_theredpumpinn

Re-opening 19th May

Stunning Scenery, a Friendly Vibe and First Class Food Dine on the finest Flame Grilled Dry Aged Steaks

in the region. Grass fed native beef dry aged to around 40 days to giving the exceptional flavour and taste we look for. Our changing seasonal menu also sources the very best of local and regional produce for our pies, fish, classic dishes, burgers and vegetarian meals.

Experience friendly service, family run by Jonathan & Fran, with

a warm welcome for visitors, dogs and muddy boots alike. Just 3 miles from the market town of Clitheroe and on-site parking.

Clitheroe Road, Bashall Eaves, Clitheroe, BB7 3DA

01254 826227 www.theredpumpinn.co.uk

EDUCATIONN E W S

THANK YOU CAPTAIN TOM Oakhill Senior School Student Council suggested we celebrate the inspiration of Captain Tom’s life by holding a non-uniform day to support his charities and we made the number 100 as a school family. Whilst we remained in our bubbles and wearing masks, it was lovely to come together following a whole year of separation. Different classes have also been remembering Captain Tom with various 100 challenges and we have all celebrated the values of kindness.

LUXURY BRAND APPRENTICE Lottie, a Year 13 pupil at Stonyhurst, has been selected from an extensive field of applicants for a degree apprenticeship with Bentley, one of Britain’s most iconic luxury brands. Lottie will be based in the company’s design department in Cheshire, focusing on enhancing the ‘consumer experience’ before, during and after point of sale. Lottie studies A Levels in business, photography and psychology, and after beating competition from over 1000 applicants to even be interviewed, she underwent a gruelling process of interviews, presentations and aptitude tests to earn her place on the apprenticeship scheme, which starts in September.

EASTER MEDITATION PATRICK GRANT His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales showed PROJECT his support for Catholics and Christians around the world through his contribution to this year’s Easter Meditation at Stonyhurst College. The Prince recited the poem God’s Grandeur, by the distinguished Jesuit poet, Gerard Manley Hopkins, that speaks powerfully of a promise of. Hopkins taught and studied at Stonyhurst, and the poem recited by The Prince formed part of the Stonyhurst Easter film.

Former St Augustine’s pupil and construction student at Blackburn College, Sydney Chapman, was recently involved in the Homegrown Homespun Patrick Grant project on Higher Audley Street in Blackburn. Sydney used her skills to build wooden fencing that has formed the perimeter around a flax field. She said: “It was great to be able to use our skills on a real-life project outside of college, especially one that is being led by Patrick Grant. I have really enjoyed being involved!”

PUPILS MUST CONTINUE TO WEAR MASKS Schools across Preston and Lancashire have advised pupils and staff that they should continue to wear face coverings until at least 21st June, despite restrictions relaxing nationally. The recommendation, from directors of public health across the North West, came amid concerns about the spread across the region of the variant of global concern that was first detected in India. The directors of public health from Lancashire County Council and Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council

have jointly agreed on the recommendation to prevent further spread of the virus and to reduce the disruption in education settings. They have written to schools and colleges with this recommendation. Continuing to use face coverings in schools along with maintaining hand washing, social distancing, fresh air and regular testing will help to control the spread of the variant. The advice will be reviewed ahead of 21st June, the next milestone in the government’s roadmap.

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EDUCATIONN E W S

RECITING SHAKESPEARE Four pupils in Key Stage 3 have entered the ESU Shakespeare Competition. The pupils from Oakhill each had to memorise and perform a passage from a Shakespeare play. Harvey performed the, “Friends, Romans, Countrymen” speech from Julius Caesar whilst Emma performed a demanding monologue from Macbeth. Mae and Millie took on the role of the Nurse and Juliet in a comedy duologue from Romeo and Juliet. All four pupils were extremely impressive. Well done and good luck for the next round.

MAKING MUSIC The start of term brought a new musical era to Westholme with the completion of a fabulous new music facility. For the first time, this gives Westholme the ability to offer A Level Music Technology in their state-of-the-art recording studio, equipped with industry standard equipment. However, it is not just about cutting edge technology – the new suite of practice rooms, choir rehearsal room and bright classrooms will enable music making of all genres and levels to flourish over the many years ahead.

HONOURING HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS Year 10 pupils ventured out to begin training towards the Expedition section of their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. On the day of the funeral of the Duke of Edinburgh the Oakhill pupils felt proud to honour his life’s work in the way thousands of young people have done over the last 65 years. Pupils walked from Downham with staff, practising map reading and navigation techniques. They did an excellent job and are looking forward to further training and their final expedition.

WELCOME FOR JASPER ADDRESSING HOMELESSNESS Dancing from the age of eight, talented Australian dancer Jasper had been offered places at several renowned dance establishments. However, alongside his mum, he made the decision to reject these offers and take up a place at Moorland Ballet. Having successfully auditioned online, Moorland has been very happy to welcome him into the fold at the academy. Moving alone halfway across the world would be daunting for most adults, never mind alone at 11 years old! Yet Jasper couldn’t be happier, his infectious enthusiastic character has allowed him to seamlessly slot into the day to day life of the academy.

Pupils at Penwortham Priory Academy are reading a book about homelessness and connecting with Rise and Shine charity to prepare to write a letter to the Police and Crime Commissioner. The students are sending the letter to support the Rise and Shine appeal. Rise and Shine Lancashire is a charity started by former Priory technology teacher Adam Graham and he is applying for funding to create survival packs for the homeless with basic necessities including toothpaste, socks and bottled water.

The Year 8 pupils are all reading Stone Cold by Robert Swindells which covers the subject of people living on the streets in the 90s. English teacher Ryan Owen said: “I got in touch with Adam on the advice of our Head of English Amy Gidden to link up with his charity. The idea of linking up with homelessness and well-being charity came from the book Stone Cold which highlights the real impact of homelessness and the effects of mental health, it breaks down stereotypes.”

A C O - E D U C AT I O N A L B O A R D I N G A N D D AY S C H O O L F O R 0 – 1 8 Y E A R O L D S

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Telephone 01253 774201

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academic subjects and extra-curricular activities are given equal value. So, whether your child is interested in chemistry, music, maths, design technology or history – each subject or activity is given equal status and importance, as each one will help to form the whole individual. Students are given the freedom to explore their interests and challenge themselves through a plethora of opportunities.

IS YOUR CHILD READY TO BE A 21ST CENTURY ENTREPRENEUR? Success isn’t just about academic results. Though of course they are extremely important, they are only one element of what makes up a dynamic young person, writes Meena McDonald

estholme School takes a unique approach that develops all the skills that will make your child a confident well-rounded individual. Dr Richard Robson joined the school at the beginning of this year, following two headships at independent schools as well as 10 years as an Independent Schools’ Inspector. Though he’s only been at the school a few months he feels like he has been part of the Westholme community for years!

Dr Robson comments: “Even after a short period at Westholme, it really is hard to imagine a school that does it better.”

So what makes Westholme so much better?

Everyone within the school is committed to providing each individual student with a set of skills that they can utilise in the outside world, combined with a stimulating environment that encourages self-belief and the desire to achieve their aspirations. It begins with a holistic approach where

EVEN AFTER A SHORT PERIOD AT WESTHOLME, IT REALLY IS HARD TO IMAGINE A SCHOOL THAT DOES IT BETTER Their aspirations are encouraged the minute they arrive at the school and each student is welcomed, recognised and appreciated for their individualism. They have tremendous relationships with their teachers, who inspire them to broaden their horizons to become confident and accomplished young people. This is supported by a vibrant, embracing and genuine school environment which is full of warmth and support. The Principal’s door is always open so he can hear the fun and laughter of students as they go about their school lives, and he enjoys his daily, personal interactions with them. Students

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thrive when they are doing the things they enjoy and that’s exactly what daily life at Westholme looks like. Academic rigour of course is crucial and the grades reflect the excellence of the teaching.

WITH DEVELOPMENTS UNDERWAY, WHICH WILL SEE ALL STUDENTS BEING EDUCATED ON ONE STATE-OF-THE-ART SITE, THE FUTURE FOR THE SCHOOL REALLY DOES LOOK VERY BRIGHT INDEED The exceptional standards set by the school and the commitment of the staff ensure the school can easily hold its own against any independent or grammar school in the region. The teaching staff are dedicated to delivering a supportive environment, providing personal guidance and encouragement to every student, ensuring they achieve and go beyond their expectations.

So, what next?

A five-year strategic plan is currently being produced to take the school to the next level. Dr Robson believes that everyone has a role to play in the success of the school and the teachers, students and parents have been

involved in the process as they are much more familiar with the school and have been there a lot longer than he has! Technology will be fully utilised and the blended learning approach will be adopted where it will help improve teaching, alongside providing students with the best possible experience. With developments underway, which will see all students being educated on one state-ofthe-art site, combined with inspirational programmes such as the Westholme Diploma and Award, the future for the school really does look very bright indeed. The recently launched Sixth Form Academic

Scholarship, an award that covers between 50 per cent and 100 per cent of school fees throughout the whole Sixth Form period, is already proving a real success. Dr Robson really cannot imagine being anywhere else. His own education was a very academic one, with little additional inspirational activity. This he found many years later when acting at the Old Vic Theatre in Bristol. He’s determined, however, that the students at Westholme will gain all the skills they require at school, a combination of independence, problem solving, creativity, leadership, transferrable skills and of course, the confidence to achieve their dreams and be ready to become 21st century entrepreneurs! n

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

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business

THE POWER OF DIVIDENDS Head of Branch Investment, Paul Gavaghan at Raymond James explains how, with a sensible approach, dividends can provide a more stable income than savings accounts

‘W

here can I double my money this week?’ and ‘Are there any ten baggers around?’ are common questions aimed at anyone working in investment. I hate to be a bore, but I explain such returns mean taking levels of risk like those in the bookies. So, if you’re not trying to shoot the lights out in a week, how can an investor expect to increase their wealth? When investing responsibly, I believe you need to take a long-term view and assess what you expect your returns to be.

Potential returns from equities are a combination of dividends and capital growth. It is on dividends that I focus this article. John D Rockefeller said: ‘Do you know the one thing in life that gives me pleasure? It’s seeing my dividends coming in.’ So, what is a dividend? It is simply the sum of money that a company pays to its shareholders out of its profits or reserves. Therefore, with dividend paying stocks you get paid for holding them no matter what the share price is. However, companies choose the appropriate value to distribute to shareholders. This means that as well as rising, dividends can fall. However, management teams of many dividend paying companies are under pressure to sustain their dividends even in times of falling profits. Take Roche, the world’s largest cancer drug manufacturer. It has increased its dividend every single year for 29 years. Sometimes though, companies have no choice but to reduce or suspend dividends. When choosing dividend stocks, it is important to choose only those that you believe will sustainably increase their dividend through free cashflow over the long term. So how do you assess a company’s ability to increase its dividends over the long term?

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For this to happen, the company must be able to sustainably increase its profits. With this in mind, I think it is important to choose only shares in industries with high barriers to entry, operating in markets with favourable demographics and, most importantly, enough of the companies’ profits must be re-invested for growth. With a sensible approach, dividends can arguably provide a much more stable income stream than savings accounts, which are reliant on interest rates and can be extremely volatile in the income which they pay. I think we all remember getting seven or eight per cent and now we get 0.5 per cent if lucky. However, in order to gain the extra income shares can provide, investors must accept fluctuations in the capital value. We tend to find that clients wanting to take a substantial income and not wanting huge swings in capital value, but accepting some, benefit most from a mixture of equities and other assets, such as bonds, which have low correlation with equities and still provide income. By utilising dividend and ISA allowances, dividend income can also be very tax efficient. Speaking to someone who’s qualified and experienced in helping investors make rational, sound decisions can offer you a fresh perspective, make sure you stay focused on your long-term plan and help you separate emotions from your decisions. Whether you’re a seasoned investor in need of some guidance, or you’re at a turning point in your financial life and need a plan, our advisers can help. n Risk Warning: Opinions constitute our judgement as of this date and are subject to change without warning; with investing, your capital is at risk. This article is intended for information purposes only and no action should be taken or refrained from being taken as a consequence without consulting a suitably qualified and regulated person

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

politicians, those that want to extend their reach into their regions and do more business in the capital. I am looking forward to contributing to the work of Downtown in Business over the coming months. DIB has exciting plans for the future and have become an influential business voice not just in the Northwest, but across the country.”

For this issue of Business Hour, Helen Sanderson talks to Rob Binns, the man who is keen to take Preston to Westminster and ensure that we get our share of the pie

n April this year the local business world celebrated the appointment of Rob Binns as chair of the Lancashire division of Downtown Business. Rob is a Preston-based entrepreneur

who currently holds various roles in the county, ranging from founder and owner to non-executive director of several businesses. He is a member of Preston’s Towns Fund Board and a leader in residence at the University of Central Lancashire Rob said: “I have been a member of Downtown in Business for many years. It’s a great organisation that brings together business owners and enables connections to be made between senior decision makers and business leaders. It looks to address the needs of amazing Lancashire businesses that need access to policy makers and

IT IS GREAT THAT WE HAVE BEEN ABLE TO PERSUADE ROB TO TAKE ON A MORE ACTIVE POSITION WITHIN THE ORGANISATION He explained that for him being the Chair of Downtown Lancashire is not just about getting the best deal for the region from Westminster, its about exporting the talent, skills and businesses that we have here in the heart of the Red Rose county to other parts of the country and the world.

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Rob said: “I want to lead Downtown Lancashire really to get stuck into the issues that impact on Lancashire businesses – and do what we can to promote the massive potential and opportunity the county has in the post-pandemic economy.” Frank McKenna, chief executive of Downtown in Business, said: “Rob is an entrepreneur in the truest sense of the word. He has been involved as a member and sponsor of Downtown for many years now, so it is great that we have been able to persuade him to take on a more active position within the organisation. “Rob is a visionary leader, fusing corporate experience with entrepreneurial passion. He has worked for key global players in technology services across aerospace, defence, manufacturing, finance, education, health and the third sector. He is a highly driven entrepreneur with a proven track record in the technology, energy, cosmetics, and property sectors. I know he will make a valuable contribution to the work of DIB.”

When asked about the title ‘entrepreneur’ Rob said: “I’ve always enjoyed working hard and creating opportunities. Does that make me an entrepreneur? Maybe. I see my role at Downtown as being in a fortunate position where I can debate the issues that really matter to Lancashire businesses, understand the challenges and take them to Westminster and a national platform to ensure that we get true a share of the funding available. Asking Rob if he had plans to move his own life to London and the Westminster platform he said: “I’ve been asked that a number of times. But its not on my agenda. I’m from Preston and I’m in a fortunate position where I can now give something back to the town that I call home.

I’M FROM PRESTON AND I’M IN A FORTUNATE POSITION WHERE I CAN NOW GIVE SOMETHING BACK TO THE TOWN THAT I CALL HOME “When I finished school I went to work for BAE and began an apprenticeship. I went on to become an IT consultant turning my hand to property. I now hold a number of positions in the City. “Preston truly is a great city and I’m proud to call it my home and the place that I raise my daughter. On our doorstep we have beautiful parks, the seaside, the Lake District and we can be in the centre of London in just over two hours. “And before the pandemic we were experiencing a once in a lifetime regeneration with hundreds of millions of pounds being invested in housing and infrastructure

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around the city centre. It really looks like many of those projects are back on track. Who wouldn’t want live here!” Rob is CEO of Cotton Court Business Centre, off Church Street, a thriving business community which provides office workspaces. With a reception team, flexible scalable solutions, and access to business support it’s the ideal place for your business to grow! There are conference and training facilities which are flooded with natural daylight, exposed brickwork and air conditioning all offering an inspiring and comfortable environment for any event. In the heart of the city with plenty of parking it’s the ideal office or conference facility. Rob may be a mover and shaker in our city but its his role of daddy to four-yearold Lydia that he’s most proud of. It’s in this role that saw him launch a shampoo and hair styling products business just over a year ago. Rob saw a gap in market after struggling to find shampoos and conditioners that suited his daughter’s curls. So he decided to create his own products that are vegan-friendly along with business partners Bradley Lincoln and Mike Peters. The FYC (For Your Curls) product range is specially designed for mixed race and curly hair and is looking to take a slice of a hair care market worth £1.72bn in the UK alone. Rob said: “I’ve got a little girl with frizzy, curly hair and we couldn’t find any products that worked for her that didn’t contain harsh chemicals. We wanted to develop a product range to help all kinds of ‘curlies’ to live with and love their hair. Lydia certainly loves it!” n

BUSINESS MATTERS

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

FLOWER SHOP BLOOMS IN LEYLAND

NEW MOBILE EVENT SPACE COMING TO TOWN

PRESTON BARBERSHOP DEFIES THE ODDS AND OPENS AMIDST THE PANDEMIC

When Bridget Wrennall took over Forgot Me Not Flowers in Leyland in 2020, little did she expect to spend most of her first year navigating various lockdowns. But through hard work, roping husband Geoff in to do deliveries and other members of the family mucking in to help with doorstep collections, she has kept the florists going from strength to strength. And with a new flower school in the planning, Bridget is a woman on a mission to supply the very best flowers to the people of Leyland.

The MET is a new mobile event space planned for Preston and it will support an exciting programme of arts, cultural and community events in the city. It is the first in a series of Pop-Up projects funded by money Preston has received from the government’s Towns Fund. It is hoped The MET will be in place in summer 2021.Preston’s Pop-Up projects aim to encourage people back into the city centre and support local businesses following the pandemic. Preston received a total of £20.9m from the Towns Fund to support exciting regeneration projects in the city’s Harris Quarter.

Coronavirus has hit local businesses in Lancashire hard. But a trio from Preston have decided not to let the global pandemic stand in the way of their plans to open a new barbershop. an Kean, Rob Robinson and Liam Kirkham are the proud owners of BARBA, a new barbershop in the heart of Preston city centre, which opened in April. The shop is a hub of all things barbering, offering haircuts, shaves, facial treatments and artisan coffee in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere that aims to cater to every generation.

KIRKHAM HIGH STREET AWARDED £80,000

which was awarded last year. This grant provides an exciting opportunity for the community to create a cultural vision for their town. It will deliver a wealth of opportunities for individuals to work with professional artists to create artwork that will animate the town. It is an exciting time for Kirkham, for the community to work together, to bring alive Kirkham’s past while improving its future prospects, assisting in its regeneration.

Kirkham has been awarded an £80,000 grant from Historic England to create and deliver community-led cultural activities on the high street over the next three years. The historic Fylde coast market town is one of more than 60 across England to receive a share of £6m to deliver a Cultural Programme as part of the town’s High Streets Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) status

NEXT GENERATION BROADBAND COMES TO TOWN Work to bring full fibre connectivity within reach of almost every home and business across Preston has now started. Construction of the £30m city-wide full fibre network has begun in Frenchwood and Fishwick and is being delivered by Telent, on behalf of CityFibre. The team will use a range of construction methods while working in close partnership with Preston City Council and local communities to deliver a fast roll-out while minimising potential disruption. The overall project is expected to reach completion by 2024 but the first services will go live for people to take advantage of much sooner.

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WHEN IS A GIFT NOT A GIFT?

It is sadly not uncommon for disputes to arise where there have been informal arrangements in place and ‘gifts’ made. In this article Nicola Turner, a specialist in inheritance disputes at Napthens, considers a case that highlights the issues

t is common for individuals as they get older to look to family members to take over management of their finances, whether formally or informally, by allowing access to bank accounts and assets. They may also want to make gifts to their family and friends during their lifetime. In a recent court case, the claimant, an elderly woman, allowed her daughter-in-law to manage her finances for her on an informal basis. She gave her daughter-in-law access to her bank accounts and later claimed her daughter-in-law had taken advantage and without authorisation, transferred large sums of money to her own son. The woman had also signed documents transferring ownership of her own home to another family member and had contributed

thousands to the purchase of her daughterin-law’s parents’ house. The defendants argued that these were gifts. The court found that the defendants had abused the woman’s trust and that the ‘gifts’ could not possibly have been considered as gifts as they were made without her knowledge and intention. This is a sad case and while it may not have provided complete protection from this financial abuse, if the claimant had executed a formal Lasting Power of Attorney, additional safeguards could have been put in place to protect her, including the ability to ask the Office of the Public Guardian to investigate any abuse. In this case, the court detailed the importance of ensuring that parties to a gift know and understand that the transaction is intended as a gift. Without proof of the full knowledge and intent of all parties, the gift can be challenged. The best approach if considering making a substantial gift is to seek advice from a

solicitor, who will advise on the consequences of the gift and then prepare a Deed of Gift to sign. If the gift were to be challenged later, the solicitor can confirm they gave advice and that the person making the gift understood the consequences and made it of their own free will. There can also be estate planning advantages to the use of a Deed of Gift. Many people look to minimise inheritance tax payable on their estate by making gifts of assets during their lifetime. A Deed allows individuals to keep a clear record of lifetime gifts so they can track when and to whom a gift was made. Napthens has a wealth of experience in relation to drafting Deeds of Gift, Lasting Powers of Attorney and dealing with any disputes that may arise in relation to financial abuse. n Nicola Turner is a senior associate solicitor specialising in inheritance and probate disputes at regional law firm Napthens napthens.co.uk

napthens.co.uk

For life’s biggest challenges Together is better Moving home. Solving disputes. Divorce. Probate. Estate planning. Complicated issues, often a worry. But the support and advice from our experienced lawyers will guide you through the process. When you’re facing life’s big decisions, together is better. Email or call

together@napthens.co.uk 0345 671 0276

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04/09/2019 10:06

D u ring t he 1 3 t h and 14th century, Bl ackburn was th e e p i c ent re of t he texti l es w orl d. Before that, i t was th e s i t e of a f a mous Roman templ e, and si nce, i t’s playe d h ost t o ma ny a c compl i shments and key mome n ts in t i m e, inc lud ing a P remi er League-w i nni ng fo o tball t e a m. To d a y, a mong ot h er thi ngs, i t’s home to natio n wide m ot or t r a d er, Hippo Motor Group. T he w i de-reach in g, h u g ely suc c essf ul, mul ti -mi l l i on-pound busi ness - wh ich i s l oc a t ed a t Tr id e nt P ark - i s headed up by o n e man ; To m Prest on. G ro wing up , Tom al w ays took a keen i nteres t in th e m ot or t r a d e. It r an i n the fami l y after al l , w i th To m’s F a mily owning a BMW and Land R over deal ersh ip. S o , t h e n, it c omes a s no surpri se to see hi m w he re h e is t od a y. H o wev er, his p a t h from cl eani ng cars to becom in g th e d i re c t or of his own company w i th more than 250 staff w a sn’t a lwa y s st r a i ghtforw ard. “ I w or k ed in t he fami l y car deal ershi p si nce le avin g s ch ool, st a r t ing i n val eti ng and w orked throu gh to j u n ior ma na g emen t,” Tom sai d. “My i dea w as to fo llo w i n my f a t her, Ric hard’s footsteps and hopeful l y ru n th e p l a ce one d a y. “ H o wev er, t hing s di dn’t w ork out l i ke that, and o n e day, m y Da d a nd Au nti e deci ded to sel l the bu sin e ss, e ff ec t iv ely lea v ing me w i thout a j ob! ” B u t d esp it e his setback, Tom al w ays knew w h e re h is f u t u re la y, a nd h e w asn’t about to gi ve up o n h is a s pir a t ion of c ont i nui ng hi s fami l y’s l egacy. “ I did n’t wa nt t o w ork for or do anythi ng el se ,” To m t ol d us. “ G iv en a l l I knew w as cars, I had a ch at with D a d f or his a d v ic e and i t w as a fai rl y easy decisio n to s e t up my own c ompany and start sel l i ng. A n d th at’s h ow Hip p o wa s c re ated.” H o wev er, muc h like havi ng hi s empl oyment ri ppe d o u t

fro m u n de rn e ath a fe w ye ars e arlie r, Tom w oul d f ace similar ch alle n ge s du rin g th e e arly year s of H i ppo. F o u n de d in an atte mpt to re plicate h is f am i l y’s s ucces s , h e co u ldn ’t h ave kn o wn th e blo w h e w as about t o be de alt in 2008. “My go al fro m day o n e was to make a good l i vi ng and try an d be as su cce ssfu l as th e family bus i nes s I l ef t , ” To m re calle d. “I se t th e co mpan y u p in 2007, an d one year l at er t he fin an cial crash h it. It was a re al stru ggl e. D ur i ng t hat time , I was o n ly se llin g abo u t 10 ca r s a m ont h and do in g pre tty mu ch e ve ryth in g myse lf; f rom buyi ng t o marke tin g an d se llin g.

“What I Really Like About Hippo Is No M a t t e r H o w L o n g Yo u ’ v e B e e n H e r e , T h e r e ’ s A S e n s e O f To g e t h e r n e s s A n d U n i t y, A n d T h a t C o m e s F r o m H o w W e Deal With Our Customers”

“Over the next three years, I worked s o me cr azy h o u r s, persistent to reach my goals and takin g so me b ig r isks along the way, including remortgaging o u r family h o me to put down a deposit on our first site. T h an kfu lly mo st of the risks paid off!” Since recovering from the financial cr ash , Hip p o h as gone from strength to strength, n o w b o ast in g a brand-new, state-of-the-art showroom an d wo r ksh o p in Blackburn stocking over 1,000 vehicles, an d a h an d o ve r site in Luton. However, during that time, Tom and Hip p o h ave n ’t forgotten the morals and ethics they w e re b u ilt o n , wit h the company director attributing many o f h is an d t h e business’ triumphs to the people arou n d h im. “It’s a cliché, but the Hippo people are a massive p ar t of our success,” Tom said. “We have some amazin g st aff here, many of whom have been here fro m t h e st ar t . “What I really like about Hippo is no mat t e r h o w lo n g you’ve been here, there’s a sense of to g e t h e r n e ss an d unity, and that comes from how we d e al wit h o u r customers. We pride ourselves on e mb o d yin g t h e people we’re trying to help and think: “ W h at wo u ld I want in this situation?” “It really helps us connect with ou r cu st o me r s an d together in the office, all working toward s o n e main goal - helping people get the car they wan t . “Buying a car can be confusing. T here are ju st so man y options be it new, used, all the diff e re n t make s an d models, and that’s before you start th in kin g o f h o w t o fund it. We get customers asking regular ly if it ’s b e t t e r to buy, lease or finance,

“I “I t hink think another another b ig big part part of of our our success success is is that that w ewe dodo allall o f otfhese these things things and and are are not not biased biased toto one one area, area, soso our our cucustomers s t omers can canmake makeananinformed informeddecision decisionrath rather er than than ju sjut st b eing b eing presented presented w ith w ith a couple a couple of of options.” options.” OfOf c ourse, course, over over the the past past 1515 months months oror so,so, the the solidity solidity of of Hippo H ippohas hasbeen b eentested testedlike likenever neverbefore, before,with withthe the COVID COVIDpandemic pandemicforcing forcingbusinesses businessesacross acrossthe theUKUKtoto cloclose s e their their d oors doors toto customers. customers.

“I “I love love spending spending time time with with family family and and f r ie fr n iedns,d s, e sp e sp e cially e cially going goingabroad,” abroad,”Tom Tomnoted. noted.“I’ve “I’vealso al sob ebeene nin tin ot ofo fo re re st st and and tarmac-stage tarmac-stage rallying rallying forfor a while. a while. “M“My y Dad Dadused usedtotorally rallyin inthe themid-80s, mid-80 s,sosowewewowo u ld u ldg og o and and watch watch him. him. I always I always loved loved it it but but c oco u ld u ld n enve e ve r affo r affo rdrd mymy own own car. car.

HoHwowever, ever, d esp d esp iteite yet yet another another monstrou monstrous s and and u nupreced nprecedented ented challenge, challenge,Tom Tomand andHippo Hippoare arecoming coming o uot ut of of the the p and pandemic emic stronger stronger forfor it.it.

“When “WhenI turned I turned21,21,I went I wentwith withsome som efr ie fr n iednsd tsot oa ar ally r ally school schooland andfell fellin inlove lovewith withit itfrom fromt h tehre e re . I. bI obro ror ro wewe d d some some money money toto buy buy mymy first first rally rally carcabr ubt uut nufo n fo r t ur tnuat n at e lye ly crashed crashed it it into into a tree. a tree. It It certainly certainly wasn’t wa sn ’t o noeno e f omy f my fi nfienste st moments!” moments!”

“A“Along long with witheveryone everyoneelse elsein inthe theUK, UK,w hen w henthe thefirst first lo ckd lo ckdown own was wasannounced, announced,I Iw as w asw orried w orriedabout aboutthe the f u ftu u ture re forfor the the company company and and our our staff,” staff,” Tom Tom told told us.us. “We “We e mploy e mploy over over 250 250 people, people, soso pretty pretty much much straight straight away away wewe beg began an toto adadapt. apt .

Picking P ickingfights fightswith withtrees treesaside, aside,Tom Tomh as h asg ognoen eo no nt ot o become becomequite quitethe thesuccessful successfulrally ral lyr ace r ace r, r,sese cucu r inr g in g several severalvictories victoriesover overhishistime timebeh bein hd in dt h teh ewhwh e eel,e l, including includingtopping toppingthe thetimesheets timesheetsin int h teh en at n at io n ioaln alW W R CR C GBGB Rally. Rally.

“We’re “We’revery verymuch muchananonline onlinebusiness businessand andhave havethe the in fin rastructure frastructuretotobebeable abletotodeliver deliverlarge largevolumes volumesof of carca s rs nationwid nationwid e, e, soso in in that that respect, respect, w ew w e ere w ere fortunate. fortunate. I I knknow o w some some of of the the ‘traditional’ ‘traditional’ carcar dealers dealers were were s trsut rugg ggling lingthrough throughthis thisperiod perioddue duetotoclosures, closures,but but th tankfully, h ankfully, forfor everyone, everyone, things things now now seem seem toto bebe picking picking u pu p agagain.” ain.”

But Buteven eventhough thoughsliding slidingthrough throughthe thet ret re e se o s f oaf ad ednese n se British Britishforest forestbehind behindthe thewheel wheelof ofhishisF oFrd o rdF ie F st ieast ar ally r ally carcar always always brings brings a smile a smile toto hishis face, face, anan d it d it like like ly ly always always will, will, like like Hippo, Hippo, it’sit’s not not the the only only thing thing ToTo mm live live s fo s fo r. r.

ThThe e COVID COVIDp and pandemic emic also alsodidn’t didn’tstop stopTom TomororHippo Hippo f rof rom m helping helping those those w ith w ith needs, needs, goals goals and and aspirations. aspirations.

“M“Maybe aybe a touch a touch of of rallying rallying before before goi go ng in g o uot ufo t fo r ar cu a cu r r yr r y and and a few a few beers. beers. Perfect!” P erfect!”

A lo A ng long sidsid e esup sup porting portingBurnley BurnleyFCFCin inthe theC ommunity C ommunity with witha aSterling SterlingFoFord rd Transit Transitvan vanearlier earlierthis thisyear yearand and dodonating n ating freq freq uent uentcare carepackages packagestotothe thelocal localfood food ban bank, k, Tom Tom also also enjoys enjoys seeing seeing local local talents talents soar. soar. “I “It hink, think,asasa acompany, company,if ifyou’re you’reable abletotohelp helpout, out,you you s hsohuld,” ould,” Tom Tom said said. . “There “There are are lots lots of of local local and and national national chcharities arities we’ve we’vesupported supportedover overthe theyears, years,and andwe’ll we’ll cocontinue n tinue toto d od o soso in in the the years years toto come. come. “I “Ia lso alsofeel feelthat thatup-and-coming up-and-comingathletes athletessometimes sometimes n eneeed d a helping a help ing hand, hand, w hich w hich w ewprovide e provide w here w here w ewe can. can. In In f a ct, f act,we’ve we’vejust justsigned signedupupforforanother anotheryear yearw ith withlocal local pro professional fessional boxer, b oxer,Josh JoshHolmes Holmesand andBritish Britishyouth youthskiski te tam e am ace, ace, Rob Rob Holmes.” Holmes.” HoHwowever, ever, despite despite hishis obvious obvious affection affection forfor hishis bubusiness,Tom s iness,Tom isn’t isn’tallallw ork. w ork.HeHealso alsohas hasother othermajor major lo ves lo vesin inhishislife, life,including includinghishisw ife, w ife,Suey, Suey,hishistwo two chchildren ildren and and rallying. rallying.

“M“My y perfect perfectFather’s Father’sDay Daywould wouldbebespsp e nednin dg in gt h teh ed ay d ay with with mymy wife, wife, Suey, Suey, and and the the kids,” kids,” hehe adad d edde. d .

T HTRHEREE E T HTI H NIGNSG A S BAOBUOTU T OTM OM

I’mI’mmarried, married,have havetwo twobeautiful beautifuldaughters daughtersand anda a crazy crazy boxer boxer dog dog Some Somepeople peoplesaysayI look I looka alittle littlelike likethe theTVTVstar star George George Clarke, Clarke, however, however, mymy friends friends saysay more more Frank Frank Sidebottom! Sidebottom! I’mI’m a keen a keen rally rally driver driver and and won won the the national national part part of of WRC WRC Rally Rally GBGB

Here Hereat atHippo HippoMotor M otorGroup, Group,weweprp idr id e eo uor u ser se lvelve s so no n being beingthe thebest bestin inthe thebusiness businessand andd udeu et ot oe xp e xp anan siosio n,n, we’re we’re now now recruiting recruiting forfor ambitious ambitious indi ind vid ivid u als u als t ot jo o in jo in o uor u r long long listlist of of success success stories. stories. We Wehave havemore morethan than3030open openvacancie vacancie s sacro acro ss ssa awid wid e e range rangeof ofskills skillsincluding includingsales, sales,vehicle veh iclemain main t e tnean n an cece , , administration, administration, compliance compliance and and marke marke t int g in. g . Visit Visit our our careers careers tab tab at at www.h www.h ippomot ippomootrogro r g ro u pu.co p.co mm t ot o find fin d your youperfect r pe rfe ct role role today. today.

MAKE THE SWITCH The new MINI Electric is very much a car for today, bringing with it a raft of economical and environmental advantages, writes Paul Agnew. Photography: Roger Moore

he MINI is a British icon. Not a claim, a statement of fact. Its place – not only in motoring folklore but also in the hearts of our car-loving nation – is forever guaranteed. But for all that enduring popularity over so many decades, the MINI has never been afraid of change or challenge, or resisted the opportunity to gear up. Hence the MINI Electric. Combining the very best bits of yesterday, this is a car very much for today with more than an eye on tomorrow.

The latest version comes complete with a visual facelift, including a smart new front grille, re-designed front and back bumpers, soft-feel steering wheel, rear fog lights, improved LED headlights and interior lighting, an 8.5 inch touchscreen as standard – the list goes on.

COMBINING THE VERY BEST BITS OF YESTERDAY, THIS IS A CAR VERY MUCH FOR TODAY WITH MORE THAN AN EYE ON TOMORROW Every bit a MINI in terms of looks, style and handling, the MINI Electric also brings a raft of economical and environmental advantages thanks to the ultra-efficient, fully-electric motor and a boot crammed with financial perks. An HM Government Plug-In grant of £2,500 is one such example and company car users can benefit from a BIK tax rating of just one per cent.

motors Although ‘electric cars’ are no longer strangers on our roads, there remains a degree of nervousness about the concept from those yet to convert. To provide reassurance, particularly concerning ‘range anxiety’, let’s focus on some hard facts: • DISTANCE RANGE: In short, how far can you go on a single charge? A very impressive 145 miles. • CHARGING (RUNNING) COST: Would you believe 4p per mile? And that is two to four times cheaper than cars with petrol or diesel engines. • BATTERY CHARGING: Simple and straightforward, either at home or on the go. Achieve an AC 0-80 per cent home charge in 12 hours (three hours 12 minutes with a wallbox) and a DC public rapid charge in as little as 36 minutes. • CHARGING STATIONS: You’ll never be stuck with around 9,000 stations available (many across Lancashire), all of them integrated into the in-built MINI navigation system. • LIFE OF BATTERY: So good that the manufacturers offer warranty for EIGHT years or 100,000 miles! • SERVICING: From as little as £10 per month, you can completely remove the uncertainty often associated with servicing costs. You will also receive added extras including fluid top-ups, one MOT, wash and vac every time, seasonal health checks and sat nav map updates. • PERFORMANCE: No problems here either. A car that’s all torque, as well as action, produces a maximum output of 184hp and a maximum torque 270 Nm.You can zip from 0-37 in under four seconds and from 0-62 in 7.3 seconds. CO2 emissions? Zero.

Okay, let’s get down to a bit of detail about the car itself. Depending upon your budget you can enjoy a range of equipment highlights right through to the top-end ‘Collection’ which boasts a gallery of unique features such as 17” spoke alloy wheels and exterior graphics.

HOW FAR CAN YOU GO ON A SINGLE CHARGE? A VERY IMPRESSIVE 145 MILES It’s also only the MINI Electric which includes new exterior paint colours, perfectly partnered with multi-tone roof and Piano Black exterior. The interior design complements the stunning exterior thanks to sport seats upholstered with cloth/ leatherette in Black Pearl/Light Grey and aluminium trim. If you are happy to go with standard then standard is very, very good. MINI Navigation remains a key feature and

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a fully-digital dashboard (still the famous circular shape) brings a futuristic feel to the cockpit. When you need helpful information when driving, then here it is, just a finger tap away. Not to overlook automatic transmission, cruise control, intelligent emergency call (MINI E-call), DAB digital tuner, Apple CarPlay, electric parking brake, Mini e-badge, rain sensor and automatic headlight activation. At levels two and three, you will also discover front distance control, rear-view camera, heated front seats, front centre armrest, Harman Kardon hi-fi system, head-up display, panoramic glass sunroof and parking assistant. Whichever model you choose, the MINI Electric is certain to impress. So don’t delay, get a handle on the future and take the next step with confidence. n

Bowker Preston MINI Channel Way, Ashton-on-Ribble Preston PR2 2YA 01772 761234 bowkerprestonmini.co.uk @BowkerMINI @BowkerMotorGroup BowkerMotorGroup @BowkerMINI TM

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TRULY UNIQUE Commissioned by Japanese entrepreneur, art collector and supercar enthusiast Yusaku Maezawa, this bespoke Rolls-Royce Phantom was created in a unique collaboration with Hermès

hen entrepreneur Yusaku Maezawa commissioned this Rolls-Royce Phantom he envisioned the car as a ‘land jet’, to complement a recently commissioned private aircraft, bringing the serene exclusivity of private air travel to the road. Designed and handcrafted by a combined team of specialists at the home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood and Hermès in Paris, the car’s striking two-tone exterior matches the characteristic green and cream glazes of antique Japanese Oribe ware, of which Maezawa-san is a prominent collector.

The upper part is finished in Oribe green, a fully bespoke colour created exclusively for the client and, in an unusual move, Rolls-Royce has made the paint available for use on the client’s private jet that the Phantom is to be paired with. Developed over many months by specialists in Rolls-Royce’s Surface Finish Centre at

Goodwood, it perfectly captures the lustrous, deep-green glaze that characterises these 16th century ceramics. The effect is beautifully complemented by the creamwhite lower section.

IN AN UNUSUAL MOVE, ROLLS-ROYCE HAS MADE THE PAINT AVAILABLE FOR USE ON THE CLIENT’S PRIVATE JET THAT THE PHANTOM IS TO BE PAIRED WITH The Oribe ware-inspired colourway harmoniously continues through the interior, created and realised through a true meeting of minds between Hermès designers and craftspeople in Paris, and

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the Rolls-Royce collective of designers and engineers. Together, they applied their shared expertise and ingenuity to ensure every individual component embodies the finest traditions of both houses. The interior is finished predominantly in Hermès Enea green leather, extending to details that include the immediate touch-points – for example, the steering wheel, duchess handles, gear selector and the rotary controls for the car’s climate settings. The Hermès leather flows around the upper instrument panel, interior pillars and parcel shelf. It also enrobes less visible surfaces including the glove compartment and luggage compartment lining, centre console, decanter stowage compartment and Champagne cooler. Delicate Hermès piping adorns the headrest cushions and calf supports of the rear seats, while soft Seashell white accents and matching lambswool floor mats create a sense of light and space throughout. The interior also features examples of

THE HERMÈS LEATHER FLOWS AROUND THE INTERIOR PILLARS AND PARCEL SHELF IT ALSO ENROBES THE CENTRE CONSOLE, DECANTER STOWAGE COMPARTMENT AND CHAMPAGNE COOLER

Rolls-Royce design and handcraftsmanship. Wooden speaker frets, for example, are formed by meticulously perforating the open pore royal walnut veneer applied to the doors, creating a seamless, textured aesthetic. Open pore royal walnut is additionally applied to the centre and rear consoles and, in another first for Rolls-Royce, the interior features Hermès Toile H canvas on the door armrests, centre and rear consoles and, most notably, the signature headliner. Hermès brings its distinctive equestrian heritage and innovative craftsmanship knowhow to the car, with the leather upholstery

created using stitching and edge-painting techniques originally employed by master saddlers. For the unique ‘Phantom’s Gallery’ that runs the length of the car’s fascia, Hermès commissioned an artwork based on a design by celebrated French artist and illustrator Pierre Péron (1905–1988) who created many of Hermes’ iconic scarves. The work, inspired by the famous Hermès horse motif, is hand-painted on open pore royal walnut and is presented as though staged in an art gallery, behind glass. Torsten Müller-Ötvös Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, comments: “This majestic and tasteful Rolls-Royce

Phantom demonstrates what is possible when talented people from two of the world’s great houses work closely together alongside a far-sighted, inspirational client like Maezawa-san. It is a meeting of minds, expertise, visions and skill that represents the very best of our respective craftspeople and capabilities. It has been an extraordinary privilege to unite on such a creatively challenging, technically demanding commission and bring our client’s remarkable vision so beautifully to life.” n

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There is nothing more electrifying than meeting your soulmates. The new Taycan. Soul, electrified. The Taycan family welcomes its fourth fully electric member to an award-winning range. Together with a constantly growing charging network and intelligent charging solutions for the home, all Taycan models offer uncompromising flexibility and an electric driving feeling that is truly Porsche. Discover more at porsche.co.uk/taycan

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Porsche Taycan model range official WLTP combined energy consumption 20.4-26.6 kWh/100km, WLTP combined CO₂ emissions 0g/km. Figures shown are for comparability purposes only and may not reflect real life driving conditions, which will depend upon a number of factors including any accessories fitted, variations in weather, topography and road conditions, driving styles, vehicle load and condition.

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16/03/2021 09:51

HOPING TO TAKE BACK OUR BEAUTIFUL GAME

ith no fans allowed into grounds, revenues dramatically cut, many clubs on the brink of collapse, the game was rocked when the so called ‘Big 6’ decided they wanted to be part of the formation of a new European Super League (ESL). The ESL was made up of 12 of Europe’s elite clubs with the promise of billions more in revenues. There was no real competition to it with no relegation and more of a round robin of games aimed at the Asian and Middle Eastern TV audiences. And at the heart of this new organisation was Joel Glazer, co-chairman of Manchester United. The Glazer family are no strangers to controversy within the game and have

A very famous football pundit once said that football was a funny old game. I don’t think he realised when he said it just how many twists and turns the game would take over the years. We keep hearing about this past season being a season like no other. Nobody could dispute that it really has been an odd and unique year for the sport come up against strong opposition from Manchester United fans since they first took over the club. Most notably the formation of FC United in 2005 by a group of fans disillusioned by the running of the club.

HAS FOOTBALL BECOME OVER COMMERCIALISED AND FORGOTTEN ITS BASIC GRASSROOTS HISTORY? FC United is now the largest fan owned club in the UK, they have their own ground and are playing in the Northern Premier League. As a members’ association every fan has the right to vote on the running of the club and control the direction it goes in. The fans have taken it back to basics and grassroots level. FC United, along with their first team, now also operate a youth

academy and women’s team. Many fans of other clubs are disillusioned about the way their clubs are being run. With the ever-increasing tv monies, the amounts paid for and to players and ticket prices that exclude many families from attending games, has football become over commercialised and forgotten its basic grassroots history? Some fans blame foreign ownership for

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the current state of the game. This was evident at the recent protests outside Old Trafford before the home clubs clash with rivals Liverpool, that resulted in fans breaking their way in to the ground, spilling on to the pitch and the game being postponed. Protests by supporters at other clubs led to the swift demise of the ESL with all six English clubs pulling out. But the blame cannot solely lie with foreign ownership when you look at the scenes at Wembley following the FA Cup Final win by Leicester City. The owner is clearly integral to the club’s success and loved by fans, players and management alike. But what about locally? The likes of AFC Fylde are a far cry from the dizzy heights of being asked to join the ESL. Clubs like Fylde rely heavily on their fans and local community and their move to the Mill Farm complex in 2016 showed

THERE IS STILL HOPE FOR THE GRASSROOTS LEVEL OF THE GAME, IN THE FORM OF THE WOMEN’S GAME a significant investment into the club by its owner. They have since established a women’s team and youth academy. Blackpool FC are also no strangers to controversy when it comes to the club’s ownership with many fans boycotting attending games to show their frustrations in previous seasons. Founder members of the football league, Preston North End, are still wholly owned by local businessman Trevor Hemmings. How long local ownership will continue is anyone’s guess or will the club be lured into foreign investment to reach the holy grail of the Premier League? In the last month four youth academy players have signed professional ter ms with the club. We look forward to seeing some homegrown talent gracing the pitch at Deepdale very soon. But there is still hope for the grassroots level of the game away from the commercialisation and wrangling over ownership, in the form of the

women’s game. Only a handful of clubs and players are on professional terms and many women are joining clubs to play simply for the love of the game. Blackburn Rovers have a well-established team, with great successes over the last few years and now playing in the FA Women’s Championship with home games played at the Sir Tom Finney Stadium in Bamber Bridge. Preston North End have just announced a fresh start for their women’s team and are on the lookout for new players in their bid to emulate the success of the Dick Kerr Ladies FC, the earliest known women’s association football team in England founded in Preston in 1917. Do you fancy being involved at the very start, at grassroots level? Preston North End

Ladies manager, Andy Lyons is hosting trials for new players in June. Could you be the next female Tom Finney or Preston’s version of Fran Kirby? Trials will be held on the 3G pitch at Penwortham Priory Academy on 2nd, 9th and 16th June, 8pm-10pm. For further details email Andy on andydlyons@aol.com. When football does return next season, hopefully, it will be with fans back in the grounds. Will clubs take on board suggestions of more fan ownership and representation at board level? Will we see more investment and development at grassroots level? The effect of the events of the last 12 months will eventually unfold and lessons will be learnt from this season like no other. But it does show us that football really is a funny old game. n

THE COMEBACK IS ALWAYS STRONGER Being part of the Preston nightlife industry for the past 20 years husband and wife team Andrew and Naomi Forster have learnt how to flex and adapt their business model to suit their customer’s needs. With every knock back this duo has had, they come back stronger. Helen Sanderson sat down with them both to learn about their exciting plans to launch a high-end restaurant

n the 20th March 2020, when Boris Johnson told the country that people ‘must’ stay at home and the hospitality industry must close. Andrew and Naomi pulled the shutters on their nightclub Lofty’s, for the very last time. Andrew and Naomi Forster, both born and bred in Preston have run businesses across the city for the past 20 years. Andrew is most synonymous with Lofty’s and the Wellington on Glovers Court. Lofty’s Cocktail Emporium, in the heart of Preston, had been a haven for soul and R&B clubbers since the early 00’s. Attracting the best

DJ’s of the time from across the country, the club was always packed out, with a steady line of people down Glovers Court, queuing to get in.

WE HAVE POURED OUR HEART AND SOUL INTO THE RESTAURANT In 2005 when the licensing laws changed to introduce 24hrs drinking, Andrew applied for the full extension to his 11pm licence, till 6am. He was granted this licence, the very first in Preston. Initially though Lofty’s just extended their opening until 1am.

Andrew explained: “We applied for the full 6am licence thinking that it would be more likely we got a two-three hour extension on our 11pm licence, so we were surprised we got it. In truth the Preston clubbers weren’t ready for it. People were still going out at 7.30ish and ready for a kebab, and a taxi home, by 2am. In 2007 I got approached by a DJ wanting to put a night on that started at 2am and ran until 6am. I took a gamble and invested

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in the night with the extra door staff that were needed for the late licence and new lighting so the club had a totally different vibe. We had our regular Lofty’s night until 1am then we would close, thoroughly clean the club, relight the rooms and reopen at 2am until 6am. To say the gamble was a hit is an understatement. The club was packed-out week after week.” When the shutters came down in March last year Andrew and Naomi both had a lot

of time to think about their businesses and the future direction they wanted to go in. Andrew confessed: “In truth I’d begun to fall out of love with nightclubs. I haven’t drunk alcohol in over three years and the clubbers seemed to be getting younger, I must be getting old. People were drinking at home before coming into town, the breweries were squeezing the mark-up on prices of drinks and the overheads on staff and door staff were increasing. “The Government never really talked about nightclubs in their roadmaps and we had to take stock. Naomi and I had always talked about opening a high-end restaurant and now seemed like as good a time as any.” When asked about the target market being in Preston, Naomi pointed out: “Preston is our home, we don’t want to have to go to Manchester, Leeds or Newcastle for a great

night out. We have visited restaurants across the country and Spain, where my family lives, and studied what works. Then we have brought our findings back to Preston, it’s a great city, its where we live and want

NAOMI AND I HAD ALWAYS TALKED ABOUT OPENING A HIGH-END RESTAURANT AND NOW SEEMED LIKE A GOOD A TIMES AS ANY to build our future. There are dozens of executive housing developments opening in the city and we can’t wait for these people to move in and to join our thriving city economy.” Naomi explained: “Floriana’s is our vision and its been our total focus for the past

12 months. We have poured our heart and soul into the restaurant creating a space that’s unrecognisable as Lofty’s. We have worked with local crafts men and women as well as using British paint and wall coverings to create our beautiful restaurant.” The restaurant will be open Monday through Sunday and offer an extensive brunch menu from 11.30am until 5pm, to cater for the café culture. Then from 5pm Floriana’s becomes an exclusive a la carte restaurant with beautifully prepared dishes such as moules mariniere, whole native lobster, sweet potato curry, fillet steak and seafood linguini. Each specially prepared main can be served with a selection of sides such as potato gratin, pumpkin with feta, green leaf salad and truffle and parmesan chips. Naomi personally prepped the menu taking inspiration from her travels and it was polished by Floriana’s new head chef, Nuno Bettencourt Camacho. Nuno is a native of Portugal and has been a sought after executive chef in the UK for many years. All the ingredients on the menu are locally sourced and prepped on the premises. The wines on the menu have been selected from a vineyard near Naomi’s family home in The Jalon Valley Wine Region in Spain, these are complemented with British wines. The beer wall hosts beers from the Poynton Brewery in Stockport and the coffee is from Atkinson’s Coffee Roaster in Lancaster. Floriana’s Restaurant & Bar will be open in June bringing a touch of class to Glovers Court and Preston. n www.florianas.group instagram/florianas_preston

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

UNIQUE AL FRESCO DINNING

ROOM TO RELAX

The owners at Penwortham’s Lime Bar and Lounge are back with a bang! They have invested in a new permanent pergola. The structure was ordered from Italy and features retractable glass panels and a roof, as well heaters and a light and sound system. It’s the first of its kind in the area and looks fantastic as you pass it on Liverpool Road. Inside has undergone a revamp too with a plush new area for the evening’s and an Instagram cocktail booth. There is a brand new food and cocktail menu with the bar opening Thursday thru Mondays noon – close and from 11am for brunch on Sundays.

The team at Valley Coffee shop in Bamber Bridge have been working hard to ensure your visit will be as safe as possible in cooperation with government guidance.They are blessed with over 250m2 of seating space which means they can still comfortably welcome customers inside and outside. They have reduced their capacity by almost 50 per cent to ensure most of the seating is still 2m apart and introduced a one-way system around the floor. Outside there is covered seating and a fabulous covered play area. They are delighted to be back brewing Atkinson’s coffee and serving the local community responsibly.

BRUNCH & BITES IN BUCKSHAW

BEER BAR FUNDED BY THE PEOPLE

A TASTE OF THAILAND

RESTAURANT TO COMPLEMENT WHALLEY VENUES

Buckshaw Village has undergone quite a foodie revolution during lockdown. The former Tiggis Xpress has been taken over by new owners and aptly renamed Home. Gone is the old traditional Italian menu, replaced with an amazing brunch, small plates and a vision to offer a fun and informal way of dining and drinking, creating a ‘home from home’. With a promise of more exciting dishes to come. Ample seating inside and outside.

Another eatery born out of lockdown in Buckshaw is A Taste Of Thailand. This takeaway has a sister site on Friargate in Preston and became popular with deliveries to local residents during the first lockdown. So much so the owners took over the old Shanti Indian Takeaway unit and have been rushed off their feet ever since! Offering freshly cooked authentic Thai street food with seating inside and out to enjoy a classic cocktail while you wait.

A Crowdfunder has been launched to transform the former bank on the Adelphi roundabout into Bier Box Preston. Crowdfunder creator Mark Murphy noticed Preston had developed a fantastic beer scene with several micro-pubs and ale houses. Bier Box Preston aims to complement and build on that great foundation. Donate between £10 and £999, with different ‘treats’ being unlocked with different packages.

The Aviary has opened to rave reviews. Following a £120,000 revamp the former bar is now a beautiful restaurant offering a large collection of bespoke cocktails, premium spirits, craft beers and extensive wine list. Manager Chelsea Victoria said: “We have refurbished and created an upmarket venue which complements Whalley’s hospitality venues. We are excited to launch a creative menu and there will also be live music every weekend, followed by a DJ until the early hours.”

Thank you to all who have supported us over this rollercoaster year... Through TOTI, our online shop, our takeaways, and our cook at home boxes and more recently our outside pop-up Spring Garden restaurant. It’s been challenging but fun. We are now moving to the next stage and we can welcome you back inside. Over the past few months we’ve made some exciting changes and are looking forward to showcasing them to you: our new bar, fireplace and refurbished bedrooms. Also, our gardens and riverside vegetable plot are in full bloom. We have now stopped our takeaway service, however, we are growing our online presence with a full TOTI rebrand alongside the launch of some exciting new products.

www.thecartfordinn.co.uk T: 01995 670166 E: office@thecartfordinn.co.uk Cartford Lane, Little Eccleston, Lancashire, PR3 0YP

EASY MEALS HOME OR AWAY

Award winning local restaurateur Breda Murphy in Whalley, has created this unique online service. You can enjoy tasty, wholesome meals either delivered nationwide to your door or click and collect from the Pantry. Ideal to put in the freezer for those lazy days, mid-week teas, Friday curry nights, family celebrations, send as a gift or to takeaway with you on your self-catering break.

Order at www.bredamurphy.co.uk

41 Station Road, Whalley, Near Clitheroe, Lancashire, BB7 9RH Email. help@bredamurphy.co.uk Tel. 01254 823446

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“Outstanding food - delicious, easy and great portion sizes. Fantastic meal box with a variety that suits

everyone. We will be ordering again!” Trust Pilot 5-star review.

Voted best contemporary British restaurant in the UK by LUXlife magazine 2020 & Restaurant of the Year 2019 Lancashire Food & Drink Awards .

11/05/2021 21:54

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NEW GALLERY WINE BAR IN LYTHAM coffee with a decadent pastry on your own for breakfast or sharing a light lunch with friends and family or a drink after work with colleagues. The warm and welcoming atmosphere will appeal to all generations and we hope the wine bar will quickly become the heart of community.”

Imagine being able to choose from a selection of over 170 award winning wines and champagnes. That’s exactly what you’ll be able to do at the Gallery Wine Bar, a new concept recently launched at Booths in Lytham

ustomers will be able to enjoy the delightfully relaxed environment from breakfast right through the evening and are able to enjoy any of the Booths wines on sale in the shop downstairs. The heritage of Booths runs through every element of the stunning wine bar, starting with the outstanding teas and coffees which Booths has been blending, roasting and serving since 1847, right through to its locally sourced products and eclectic range of exceptional wines. With a wide range of delicacies to complement whatever you’re drinking, you’ll certainly be spoilt for choice. Each day there will be fresh artisan bread, tempting open sandwiches, award winning cheeses, cured meat and antipasti along with indulgently delicious cakes. All produce is expertly sourced and of excellent quality using only the finest of ingredients. Retail Development Manager Matt Bruno commented: “The new Gallery Wine Bar combines our great wine range with our fantastic range of delicatessen into one comfortable space. It is ideal for so many social occasions, whether that’s a peaceful

SAMPLE WINE LIST

Here are a few expert recommendations from wine buyer Victoria Anderson to enjoy in the Gallery or to buy from Booths to enjoy at home.

Lagar de Cervera Albariño £15.00 An impressive example of Spain’s iconic white varieties, from the sea-swept Rías Baixas region. The juicy fruit is lifted by delicious freshness, with notes of stone fruit and minerality. Perfect with a light lunch.

Booths English Sparkling Wine £22.00 Made in the South Downs of England by award-winning producers, Ridgeview. Red fruits and toasty spice on the nose lead to an intense, yet elegant palate full of ripe citrus with notes of brioche. Pinot dominance brings depth and complexity, with the Chardonnay adding finesse and freshness.

Walt Pinot Noir, Germany £10.50 Try this deep, plummy pinot from, of all places, Germany, which actually produces some terrific pinot nowadays.

Booths is renowned for its wine selection and expert wine buyer Victoria Anderson’s ethos is focused entirely on the customer and she aims to offer an extensive range, value for money and uncompromising quality. In 2020 Booths won Decanter Magazine’s prestigious Supermarket of the Year Award which recognises the best wine retailers based on range, service and innovation. This will now be extended to the new Gallery Wine Bar. The Gallery offers a range of wines by the glass, or for a small corkage fee of just £3.00 you can enjoy any one of 170 wines from the award-winning Booths range with no additional mark-up. n

Gallery Wine Bar – Booths Lytham Haven Road, Lytham FY8 5EG 01253 795561 booths.co.uk

WHAT'SON

CRAZY P SOUNDSYSTEM: CRAFT Hoghton

VINTAGE

Tower, Preston – Sunday 30th May

live P Soundsystem are set to perform Shimmering disco-house outfit, Crazy Spring the over , ashire Lanc in r Towe ton on the enchanting grounds of Hogh Kenny ort on the event comes from DJs Bank holiday weekend this May. Supp art. Rynh Jaeger and Adam

POSH GRUB WITH CHEF LEWIS

Kanteena, Lancaster – Sunday

SPENCER

20th June

Chef Lewis Spencer back to host a extra special Posh Grub for Fathe r’s Day on the 20th June 2021. Lewis has spent over a decade in two and three Michelin-star restaurants. He draw s on this training to provide a besp oke culinary experience for his clients.

RESTRICTED FOREST Witton Country

June Park, Blackburn – Saturday 26th

o and the biggest names in house, techn Delivering live music from some of Jules, t will welcome the likes of Judge Fores icted Restr year’s this l, old skoo thousands at Blackburn’s of front in rm perfo to more And Ultrabeat, Snap! Witton Country Park.

The best events taking place across Lancashire in 2021, brought to you by Skiddle

KANTEENA BEER FESTIVAL

Kanteena, Lancaster – Friday 4th

June

Tickets include five pints/10 halve s, hot deluxe bar snacks and your very own festival tasting glass. The best DJs and a fine selection of over 30 beers from near and far, gluten free, vegan and plenty of Ciders. Breweries includ e Lervig, Fell, Brass Castle, Verdant, Omnipollo and Pollys.

BLACKPOOL ROCKS: THE RETURN

Winter Gardens, Blackpool – Saturday 26th June

BBC Radio 1 host and DJ Danny Howard will present a very special sets all-dayer at Blackpool’s Winter Gardens this June, featuring massive from Hot Since 82, Maya Jane Coles, Absolute, Jaguar and headliner, Fatboy Slim.

ROCKPREST Moor Park, Preston – Saturday

26th & Sunday 27th June

The UK’s number one tribute festiv al is set to make its long-overdue return to Preston this June, featuring live tribut es to bands such as AC/DC, Foo Fight ers, Iron Maiden, Metallica, Tool, Mega deth, Slipknot, System Of A Down , Queen, Kings Of Leon, Madness, The Smith s, New order and many more.

Music venues, theatres and other popular attractions have begun reopening their doors to the public following Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s announcement that the UK has indeed successfully managed to reach step 3 out of 4 of the government’s ‘Roadmap out of Lockdown’.

Kanteena, Lancaster – Friday 2nd July

time with This flashmob musical show is designed to take the audience back in the most a crew composed of 17 musicians playing fully unplugged to ensure stage set, authentic experience. Everything takes place within a magnificent designed to give the sensation of being inside a 19th century vessel.

RETRO IN THE PARK

Riva Showbar, Preston – Saturday

31st July

A rave event fit for the whole family , Rave Kidz makes its anticipated return to the Northwest this July. The popu lar touring children’s disco will featu re the best child-friendly music from the likes of DJ Andy Whitby, Friday Night Posse and MC Little Miss Bliss.

Towneley Park, Burnle

y – Saturday 28th Au

gust Showcasing some of the world’s biggest dance acts alongside a handful of loca superstars, Retro in the l Park is set to bring the likes of Graeme Park, Sanchez, N-Trance, K-k Roger lass Paul Taylor and Tall Paul to Burnley’s Townele Park this Summer. y

HACIENDA CLASSICAL & GUESTS

29th August

of ’80s will recreate the iconic club sounds The Manchester Camerata Orchestra Club this August, alongside et Crick pool Black the at live r, and ’90s Mancheste rs Park, Robin S Maynard, Crystal Wate renowned artists and DJs Graeme and more.

Go to: skiddle.com to find out more, or book your tickets.

RAVE KIDZ SUMMER TOUR 2021

OLD TIME SAILORS

Blackpool Cricket Club – Sunday

Here, you’ll find a list of incredible live events on SKIDDLE that are confirmed to go ahead over the coming weeks and months, as restrictions continue to be relaxed throughout the summer.

CRAFTY VINTAGE FAMILY FESTIVA

28th to Monday 30th August Hoghton Tower, Preston – Saturday the three-day st bank holiday weekend, Taking place over this year’s Augu endent present an array of stalls from indep Crafty Vintage Family Festival will as well ures, treas retro and s table e collec and local businesses, selling vintag . rages beve and treats tasty of t as an assortmen

HIGHEST POINT FESTIVAL

Willamson Park, Lancaster – Frida y 3rd &

Saturday 4th Sept

ember Lancaster’s premier open-air musi c festival returns to Williamson Park this September. Headline acts include the likes of Brit award-winner Rag‘ n’Bone Man, Becky Hill, Ella Eyre, Sam Divin e, Hannah wants, Wilkinson, Clean Bandit, The Futureheads and more…

reston may be the North Wests third city but Matt Eastham of Eastham’s & Co, the longest established letting and management company covering the PR and FY postcodes, explained why now may be the time to embrace city living. Matt said: “Preston is enjoying a boom thanks to the City Living initiative and there are lots of new apartment schemes. Those on and near to Winkley Square are just stunning. A number of these developments have roof gardens that overlook the city, concierges and gyms. Each one is a beautiful home but also makes attractive investments as they are currently a fraction of the prices of a similar apartment in Manchester and Liverpool.”

A THROUGH THE KEYHOLE LOOK AT CITY LIVING A walk through the heart of Preston City centre and you will see there are at least a dozen buildings being converted to ‘luxury’ apartments. Winckley Square and the adjoining streets are welcoming tens of millions of pounds being invested to create luxurious city living. Helen Sanderson took a walk through one of the wealthiest neighbourhoods in town with property expert Matt Eastham More and more people are embracing city living and Preston has become a real alternative to its neighbouring cities.

Matt explained: “£430million is being invested in infrastructure as part of the City Deal. We have 500 hectares of parks, green

spaces, wildlife habitats, play areas and allotments within the city including the awardwinning City Centre historic

property

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HOMEBUYING: IS THERE REALLY A FINANCIALLY BEST TIME TO BUY?

Buying a home is one of the biggest investments we make in our lives. However, while the average house price in the UK is valued at £249,633, the cost of mortgages among other factors means that the total cost of the home-buying process can vary between individuals writes Ella Pumford at St. Mowden Homes Even then, house prices continue to rise year on year. In England, house prices have increased by 7.6 per cent in the past year. Competition spurred on by the housing crisis may mean that this increase is set to continue. This raises the question: when is the best time to buy? ‘Immediately’ is not always the answer. The true cost of a house will depend on your personal finances when you buy, and it can vary depending on which financial schemes you use to help you on your homebuying journey. Jumping into a sale too soon can cost more than it is worth. Here, we explore the options for buying your house, what schemes you can take advantage of, and when to buy your home. On 3rd March 2021, Rishi Sunak unveiled his latest budgetary plan for the nation. Included in this were schemes for home buyers which may make the process of climbing the property ladder easier for many people.

Avenham and Miller Parks. The Lake District or the Yorkshire Dales National Parks are a 45-minute drive whilst on our doorstep is the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the varied

The beautiful East Cliff Gardens is one such property that has become a luxury home again after many years as an office. The prestigious triplex townhouse has stunning views over Avenham Park. The

MORE AND MORE PEOPLE ARE EMBRACING CITY LIVING AND PRESTON HAS BECOME A REAL ALTERNATIVE TO ITS NEIGHBOURING CITIES Lancashire coastline. Four major motorways intersect at Preston giving motorway access from all points of the compass and our capital city is just a two-hour train journey.” As well as apartments blocks the grand old houses overlooking Winckley Square are being returned to their former glory.

exclusive apartment is set over three floors and furnished to an extremely high standard. The property consists of two double bedrooms, both with ensuites, huge open plan living area, a modern fitted kitchen/diner and a study area. The property has secured gated parking. n

The Stamp Duty holiday extension reduces the tax paid when buying properties. Under this scheme, homebuyers will only pay stamp duty on properties above the value of £500,000. This scheme was set to end on 31st March 2021. However, the Government has extended this until 30th June 2021. Buying a property within this timeframe could save homebuyers up to £15,000 before the tax break ends. The sale of properties must be completed before the 30th June deadline. However, the opportunity to save on Stamp Duty could be extended based on your buying choices. One national housebuilder, St. Modwen Homes, has its own Stamp Duty holiday extension which is available on a selected number of homes until 30th September 2021. Buying a new build property with this company can help you save thousands beyond the Government’s June deadline when you buy houses in Eastwood or houses in Newton-le-Willows, among many other locations. The housebuilder has also launched a new ‘Mortgage Paid’ offer for those buying a new-build home. Available on selected homes at developments across the country, the company will essentially pay up to six months of your mortgage. So, if you’re ready to buy now, it may already be the best time! The offer is only available for a limited time, but being six months mortgage free could save you thousands.

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REALISE YOUR DREAMS WITH A PROPERTY PORTFOLIO If you are looking for a long-term income or healthy return on an investment then property maybe your route to wealth acquisition

he team at Flagship North Investments in Preston provide a bespoke service tailored to individual clients’ needs. They source the ideal property and manage the whole conveyancing process. If a client wants to refurbish a property to sell on at a higher price, Flagship North even has its own refurbishment team to undertake the work. Clients have seen returns of up to £18,000 in a matter of months but if your ambition is for longer term investment, building your future, then they can help with this too. One client, recently sourced a buy-to-let off market property, providing a yield of over 9 per cent and a 39.7 per cent return on his money left in the deal. Client Sam, from Preston said: “The team helped me to source a buy to flip property at the start of 2021. As a business man

and first-time Dad, I was struggling to find the time to search for deals which met my specific criteria. They took care of all of this for me, as well as the complete refurbishment. I was delighted with the return on capital employed.” Operations manager at Flagship North Investments, Rachel Suthers added: “If you are thinking about property then please come and talk to us. We offer free, no obligation advice and we can talk you through the excellent investment opportunities.” n

01772 305202 flagshipnorthinvestments.com

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Our approach: We listen to you, taking time to get to know you and your business and understand the market you are trying to reach. Once we have an agreed concept, we will create a range of innovative and relevant designs to realise it, continuing our two way communication process until you are satisfied with the final designs. We remain small by choice to be able to provide a very personal, dedicated and hands on service. Our goal is to make the creative journey enjoyable for everyone involved, to ensure that every client is happy with the end result and that they reap the benefits of their investment in our service.

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SHOW HOME OPEN Whittingham Place, Whitehall Drive, Broughton, Preston, PR3 5EB Prices from £200,000

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Preston OIRO From: £585,000

Two individual 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom luxury homes with fantastic contemporary living spaces.

Esprick, Preston Offers Over: £625,000

A highly-attractive barn conversion which makes for a wonderful family home, this 5 bedroom property is ideal for those who are looking for space to grow.

Beautifully finished by a family-owned builder, both properties are finished with care and considerable attention to detail. Both set within generous, south-facing plots with double garage and spacious driveways.

Set in a large plot this property is just made for entertaining. Enter from a private driveway and past spacious gardens, situated within easy access of road networks and the many amenities of Kirkham.

Greenhalgh, Preston Offers Over: £800,000

This fantastic, detached home has been improved by the current vendors offering 4 bedrooms along with a further 2 bedroom annex, suitable for multigenerational living.

Chatburn, Clitheroe P.O.A. By Informal Tender.

A grade II listed home with a range of outbuildings set in 4.2 acres (1.7 ha) OTA.

Ideally located for those yearning a country life - who may enjoy the benefits of potentially working from home, or use the property for alternative uses (subject to consent) - it equally has excellent accessibility for those who may commute.

This attractive 4 bedroom home offers a wealth of opportunity. The house is in need of modernisation, yet is set in attractive gardens, with stone outbuildings, orchard and field. Viewing by appointment. Tender date 12 noon, 10 June, 2021.

Offering a first class choice of homes on the

South Fylde

01253 795555 johnardern.com

Hill Cottage Little Plumpton £950,000

13 Newbury Road St Annes £399,500

Part of the Lytham St Annes historic heritage this cottage of immense charm and quite authentic character was built before 1800. It is believed that the property was originally the main farmhouse of the district called ‘The Hill’. On a date unknown the property was converted into two cottages and remained so for many years. Though, subsequently restored to its original and current configuration as a single four bedroomed detached dwelling standing on a plot of approximately two acres with stunning lawned gardens and open rural views. Hill Cottage is accessed through electric double opening gates with a feature long sweeping driveway and is an outstanding character property in a prime semi rural location within very easy access of the M55 motorway, Lytham St Annes centres and all the Fylde coast has to offer. Viewing essential. Freehold. EPC Rating D.

Detached family house enjoying a very popular location close to local schools and the beach. Accommodation briefly comprises; Two reception rooms, family kitchen and conservatory, utility room and cloaks/WC. Three 1st floor double bedrooms and a family bathroom with separate WC. Walled gardens to the front and rear. Garage and off road parking. Gas central heating and double glazing. Freehold. Viewing recommended. Freehold. EPC Rating E.

Offering a first class choice of homes on the

South Fylde

01253 795555 johnardern.com

2 Church Row Wrea Green £389,950

4 Denford Avenue St Annes £339,950

Stunning mid terraced thatched cottage built in 1846 in the heart of Wrea Green village arguably one of the county’s finest traditional villages with its centre Village Green and duck pond. On the ground floor is a central entrance hallway, lounge with original low beamed ceiling, leading to the dining kitchen, utility and ground floor extension room/study. Ground floor shower room/WC. On the first floor are three good sized bedrooms. Gas central heating and double glazing of principal windows. Cottage garden to the front of the property and a rear enclosed patio garden with stone cobbled floor. Useful bike store. No onward chain. EPC Rating C.

This very well appointed double fronted semi detached family property has been the subject of considerable modernisation program during the course of the last 10 years. The property is situated in a nice residential location within minutes from AKS schools and within sight of the beach and foreshore. There are transport services running adjacent on Clifton Drive South leading directly into St Annes Square which lies approx 1 mile from the property. On the ground floor are two reception rooms and a modern full width dining kitchen. On the first floor are three double bedrooms and a modern family bathroom/WC. Gas central heating and double glazing. Gardens and double tandem garage. Leasehold & EPC rating D. Viewing strongly recommended.

John Ardern & Company Ltd 6 Park Street Lytham Lancashire FY8 5LU

01253 795555 johnardern.com

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JOIN OUR TEAM IN OUR NEW WHALLEY OFFICE We are searching for talented architects, architectural technologists and architectural technicians who want to join our growing team at ZMA

e have just relocated our rural studio to Whalley, in the heart of the Ribble Valley and we are currently holding interviews to expand our fantastic team. We are a small boutique practice with a unique set-up – we all work on every project together as one collective team, which allows us to work efficiently and to

everyone’s individual strengths, creating a strong team-work environment. Being a small studio allows us to provide a highly bespoke and personal service to our clients and we are able to create unique schemes individually tailored to our client’s needs. You will work with our dynamic team in our brand new Whalley office, working on projects in the Ribble Valley, Lancashire and beyond. Our projects vary from bespoke extensions and unique solutions for sensitive sites, to concept-driven ‘paragraph 79’ and luxury super-homes. Our clientele includes private individuals, self-builders, business owners and developers who work with us for our innovative design solutions.

We are passionate about creating the best possible solution for our clients, with the key driver being to transform people’s lives. n If you would like to work with us at ZMA, please send your CV and portfolio to: info@zaramoonarchitects.co.uk

Zara Moon Architects We Transform Sites, Buildings & Lives Unit 37, Mitton Road Business Park Mitton Road, Whalley BB7 9YE 01200 403840 info@zaramoonarchitects.co.uk zaramoonarchitects.co.uk

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Contact us for availability in our Nursery, Prep School and Senior School. For more information or to book a tour, please contact the school registrar Suzanne Spencer on 01254 823546 or email spencer.s@oakhillschool.co.uk. | oakhillschool.co.uk | 01254 823546 | Wiswell Lane, Whalley, Lancashire, BB7 9AF

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