41 minute read
CELESTIAL BEAUTY
A fabulous exhibition featuring images of the night sky above Bowland can currently be seen at Clitheroe Castle
From the winter constellation of Orion to the magical sight of a meteor shower and the fabulous sweep of the Milky Way, the skies above Bowland are filled with wonder – and look amazing when captured on camera.
The Forest of Bowland AONB Partnership and Clitheroe Castle Museum are celebrating the area’s celestial beauty with a special exhibition. And as part of the fourth Bowland Dark Skies Festival, they invited people to submit their very own night-sky photographs for inclusion.
Manager of Clitheroe Castle Museum, Claire Sutton, explains: “We have a fantastic gallery space here at the museum and we’re really excited to be hosting this brand-new exhibition.”
Images taken by amateur and experienced photographers have been selected for the exhibition and are truly stunning.
Dark skies expert and photographer Robert Ince, who is showing his work in the exhibition, has been involved in developing various Dark Skies projects in Bowland from the start, running workshops for tourism businesses, raising awareness about light pollution and delivering a range of stargazing and night sky photography courses as part of Festival Bowland.
Speaking about the exhibition Robert says: “In the Forest of Bowland we are so lucky to have amazing, relatively light pollutionfree skies and with the abundance of local photographical talent we have enjoyed some amazing astro-photography as part of the exhibition. The standard has been so high, featuring the Milky Way, galaxies, meteors, star trails and more.
“My own shots were all taken in the Gisburn forest area with a Canon DSLR and a wide angle lens but you can even take similar images with a smartphone!”
Hetty Byrne, Sustainable Tourism Officer with the Forest of Bowland adds: “We’re lucky to have such dark skies here in Bowland and it’s great when people take the opportunity to get out and enjoy them. We hope this exhibition will help to show just how special Bowland is once the sun has set – and how important it is that we help to keep it that way.”
Truly dark skies are becoming increasingly rare as light pollution from towns and cities dilutes the blackness of night obscuring the stars for much of the population.
In 21st century Britain, many town and city dwellers may never have seen the Milky Way – our home galaxy – and will only catch the faintest glimpse of a handful of the brightest stars.
Brenda Hempton: Stars over a lone tree on Longridge Fell, with a person walking with a torch through the heather WE HAVE ENJOYED SOME AMAZING ASTRO-PHOTOGRAPHY AS PART OF THE EXHIBITION. THE STANDARD HAS BEEN SO HIGH, FEATURING THE MILKY WAY, GALAXIES, METEORS AND STAR TRAILS
The night skies over Bowland have been recognised as some of the darkest in England and on a clear cloud-free and ideally moonless night, the skies become home to all manner of legendary figures and mythical beasts. This is the domain of Pegasus, the winged horse, Taurus the bull, Orion the hunter and Andromeda, a beautiful princess.
And as well as these characters in the sky, there’s a whole host of other heavenly objects to look at. Many of the earth’s companion planets in the solar system are visible at various times of the year, as are more distant objects like the Orion Nebula and the Great Galaxy in Andromeda.
While the winter months, when the nights are longer and the skies are darker, tend to be the best time to stargaze, events like the Perseids meteor shower can be seen in mid-August, when observers can see dozens of shooting stars an hour, making a real celestial spectacle.
The Forest of Bowland AONB has five designated Dark Sky Discovery sites that include Beacon Fell Country Park and Gisburn Forest Hub.
Speaking about the exhibition Sandra Silk of the Forest of Bowland AONB, adds: “The standard of entries for our first Bowland Dark Skies Exhibition with Clitheroe Castle Museum has been so impressive. The photographers have captured such a fantastic range of images, from nebulae to brooding, fell-top sculptures – no easy feat given the unpredictability of the weather here in Bowland. The Stewards Gallery at the Castle will be a great setting for them.” n
FROM THE CONSTELLATION OF ORION TO THE MAGICAL SIGHT OF A METEOR SHOWER, THE SKIES ABOVE BOWLAND ARE FILLED WITH WONDER
The Dark Skies Exhibition at Clitheroe Castle will run until late May and admission to the gallery is free
Chris Jones: Andy Goldsworthy sculptures on Clougha
Robert Ince: Gisburn hub path to the heavens
ESTATE LIFE
Gisburne Park Estate is owned and managed by Guy Hindley and his wife Amber, who are converting it into a thriving tourist destination
Our gorgeous walled garden outdoor pool is heated and open again on Ribblesdale Park, which means it’s finally spring. And if you were in any doubt about it there are over 800 lambs running about the place already! The deer have nearly all lost their antlers, wild garlic is sprouting everywhere and the migratory birds are returning, change is afoot.
If you’re in the market for a bespoke lodge we have a new show home arriving shortly, which you will be able to view. Demand is exceptionally high these days – post pandemic, we are really enjoying welcoming new owners to the estate. Our bespoke lodges start at around £240,000 and come from Lissett Lodges, probably the best manufacturer in the UK. We are excited to announce that we have ordered five more units all to come in the first half of 2022. In order to arrange a private tour of a lodge and the estate don’t hesitate to get in touch with my brother-in-law Charlie charlie@gisburneparkestate.co.uk
OUR BESPOKE LODGES START AT AROUND £240,000
The new menu for Hindelinis will be launched shortly. Please keep an eye on our website for that. I am pleased to say Hindelinis is currently hitting its mission statement with flying colours. Our aim is to create a fun atmosphere and cook the classics using local, high quality, Lancashire produce while maintaining an exciting, seasonal and varied specials board to keep everyone interested.
Our Thursday Club has an unbelievable line up of local, live music and events for you all to enjoy. As soon as it’s warm enough we will be enjoying live music outside in the Hindelinis Garden – we will keep you posted on when that will be.
Another holiday cottage has recently been renovated by Amber to an exceptional level, complete with a new garden by the ever-talented John from Holden Clough Nurseries and there is a large sumptuous hot tub and fire pit. We are close to completing two other gorgeous cottage refurbishments as we continue to develop our self-catering portfolio across the estate. n
THURSDAY NIGHT LINE UP 21st APRIL – QUIZ NIGHT 28th APRIL – GINJAMMERS 12th MAY – PHILIP HALLIWELL 26th MAY – LUCAS WYATT
Gisburne Park Estate Mill Lane, Gisburn BB7 4LP 01200 415300 gisburnepark.com
For all updates go to: @gisburneparkestate
THE IMPORTANCE OF
LASTING POWERS OF ATTORNEY
It is never too soon to set up Lasting Powers of Attorney, advises Jane Burbridge of Forbes Solicitors
The pandemic has brought to light the importance of having measures in place to enable your family to access and manage your finances in the unfortunate case that you are unable to do so yourself.
It’s not an easy conversation to have but it really does pay to plan ahead and set up Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) sooner rather than later. Not just for the instances that you or someone you love is diagnosed with a progressive illness such as dementia in later life, but earlier on in your life too.
Research shows that 65 per cent of us think our next-of-kin will make medical and care decisions for us if we are no longer able to. That is not the case without a Health and Welfare LPA being in place, this enables them to make decisions about social care issues and medical treatment, including life sustaining treatment. Unfortunately, it is estimated only 22 per cent of people in the UK have an LPA.
There are not only problems dealing with your personal finances and making medical and care decisions, what about the business you are involved with?
Most businesses have undergone crisis management – identifying and preparing for probable risks, such as floods, computer hacks or theft. However, fewer businesses consider preparations for significant business decision-makers being incapacitated.
Without a business LPA in place, certain risks arise. For example, if one of the bank account signatories lacks capacity, the bank could freeze the account. If there is an overdraft, the possibility of the bank freezing the account is greater. Contracts entered by a person who had capacity but now lacks it, may become unenforceable owing to their incapacity. Paying creditors, employees or tax becomes difficult as does running the business generally with a businessperson who now lacks capacity. Investors may require their investments to be returned.
The time to consider making LPAs – for personal finances, health and welfare or business – is when you are fit and able. It is never too soon to make an LPA. However, if something happens which results in you losing your mental capacity, it is too late.
An application would then need to be made to the Court of Protection to have a deputy appointed. You would have no say in who applies to be your deputy, the process may take months or longer and, in the case of a business, during that time the business is exposed to uncertainty of survival.
At Forbes Solicitors we can help guide you through the steps of making a Lasting Power of Attorney to help you decide what would happen if you could not make decisions for yourself and needed support managing your affairs. n
Jane Burbidge, Partner in Wills, Tax, Trust & Probate 01772 220156 jane.burbidge@forbessolicitors.co.uk
forbessolicitors.co.uk 01254 580 000 WHATEVER THE MOMENT, WE’RE IN IT
HOME TRUTHS
The atrocities of the Ukraine war fill our media daily and I watch in disbelief how inhumane and cruel Russian troops are towards civilians in towns throughout the country. I fear things will get much worse before they get better – but President Putin has blood-stained hands and must be brought before international courts to answer for his crimes. This is his war and he must not win or be allowed to get away with appalling acts of violence and the execution of innocent people. I visited Qatar to attend the annual spring forum, where President Zelensky Zoomed into the conference hall to speak to delegates from several countries. His request for assistance and increasing sanctions against the Putin regime were met with acclamation. The conference spoke of other world issues including spiralling energy costs. Qatar
is moving in the right direction on democracy whilst Russia ignores it. At least there is some hope in some parts of the world whilst dark clouds hover over others. I met a politician from another far-flung territory, which had also faced invasion from a foreign neighbour – The Falklands. The Honourable Leona Roberts was telling me of their preparations to commemorate 40 years since the start of the Falklands war – there is to be a service in Westminster to mark the occasion. I went to see an old chum of mine, wit and raconteur, Gyles Brandreth on the stage in London. He was simply incredible in his energetic one-man show and in the second half, his Ukraine jumper was worn to great effect, which will be auctioned to support Ukraine charities. As a brief warning, I was shocked to find that someone has started a fake Instagram account in my name with attempts to get my unwitting followers to invest in a crypto currency scam. Please be aware that scammers are out there – if it doesn’t look right, it probably isn’t! Pupils came from Barrow School to visit Parliament and it was wonderful talking with them. They were full of ideas – high on their list was to tackle too much housebuilding and the speed of cars through our villages. I think we may have a few future MPs in Barrow!
Three cheers to the Speaker, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, for allowing visitors to Westminster to tour the State Apartments which he presides over. This is the first time it has ever been open for tours and I heartily recommend it. Finally, I visited Windsor Castle to watch HRH Prince Edward present new colours to the Royal Gibraltar Regiment. It was the first time I have ever witnessed such a presentation and it was full of pomp in the most glorious of settings. I spoke with Prince Edward after the ceremony and he was surprised when I told him I was celebrating 30 years as an MP this month. It has been a huge privilege for me representing you in Parliament and when I raise a glass of wine at the Speaker’s celebration dinner it will be to say thank-you to those of you who have put me here over three decades. It will also be to remember those who have supported me and are no longer with us. I remember the early years and I remember them and always will. Thank-you and God bless the Ribble Valley and its people. n
Ribble Valley MP Nigel Evans visits a spring forum in Qatar, meets his old chum Gyles Brandreth and is shocked to discover that someone has set up a fake Instagram account in his name
Helen Lucking, head of family at Napthens, looks at changes to the divorce law which finally came into effect on 6th April 2022. This law, often called no-fault or amicable divorce, allows couples to start divorce proceedings without having to blame the other person. The divorce process has already been made much easier as you can apply online using a simple form. The Courts have been dealing with divorce applications relatively quickly recently, with the process taking about four months from start to finish. However, we
AN AMICABLE DIVORCE?
Whatever your personal circumstances, if you have decided to get divorced you will no doubt want to try to resolve things as amicably and cost effectively as possible
anticipate an increase in the number of people getting divorced from April 2022 which will no doubt cause some delays. What changes does the new law bring?
The new law promises to end the blame game between couples. The process will be instigated with a statement that the marriage has irrevocably broken down and in fact, couples can apply for divorce jointly should they wish. It is hoped this new process will reduce hostilities, improving the situation for all concerned during a turbulent time, particularly where children involved. It will no longer be possible to contest a divorce. There will be a minimum period of 20 weeks for couples to “reflect” before committing to divorce, followed by a further six weeks before divorce is finalised. Couples should be aware, however, that it is very unlikely issues relating to finances and children will be resolved within this same period. Being prepared
If you are contemplating divorce, it is worthwhile spending time in advance to gather all the information you will need. Find your marriage certificate and make sure that you have the correct postal address and email address for your husband/wife. Take a look at how much the court fee is and whether you may be eligible to claim an exemption or a reduction in the fee. You can do these things in advance so that when the time comes you are ready to make the application. If you want the assistance of a solicitor, then arrange an appointment as soon as possible so they are aware of your situation and what you want to achieve. It is worthwhile getting your “ducks in a row” so that you are ready to go when the time comes. But please remember that the divorce is simply the dissolution of the marriage. Financial issues still need to be addressed – and this is where complications can arise. Contact a member of our family law team to discuss your circumstances and take specialist legal advice before you take steps to resolve financial issues. n
Helen Lucking is a Partner and Head of Family & Divorce 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 together@napthens.co.uk or call 0345 671 0276
THE COLOURS OF SPRING HAVE ARRIVED
The show gardens often form the foundations of the displays John and wife Kate produce for the Royal Horticultural Society’s Tatton Flower Show and also Southport and Harrogate Flower Shows, where they have enjoyed considerable success taking numerous gold medals for their show gardens, which have been praised for their expert planting and structure. Down in the lovely, newly-developed beck area at Holden Clough is the re-stocked, fabulous Pots and Pithoi display – the nursery is the only stockist in the UK outside of Oxford to features these exclusive Cretan terracotta pots, which feature at Highgrove – the residence of Prince Charles.
It’s the time of year when Holden Clough Nursery comes alive with bursts of colour as flowers come into bloom and wildlife is buzzing
Visitors can take a seasonal tour around the ever-changing rural idyll that is Holden Clough and view the latest plant collections that have been beautifully curated. Meander through the gravel pathways and observe the plants that are grouped by association and colour making it easier to choose for a specific area. And within each planting sections you will find handy ‘Did you know?’ gardening tips. If you want plants for borders there will be a selection that will produce a perfect display throughout the summer and there is always someone on hand to give expert advice. Nursery owner John Foley offers a free-ofcharge Border Design Service – he will happily meet you at the nursery to discuss and assist in drawing planting layouts for your borders, taking into account your aspect, flowering times, structure and style along with planting combinations to give you beautiful borders. This year, with an enhanced offering, John and the team have curated packs of plants that go well together in terms of aesthetics and grow well together in terms of withstanding the northern climate. All plants at Holden Clough are hardy and especially reared outdoors to withstand our chilly, wet weather. The curated pack-and-plant collections are named according to the type of garden you wish to achieve including Cottage Garden, Shade Loving, Wildflower and White – they are perfect for gardeners who may lack confidence in choosing what will look good and grow well. At a set price, each pack will cover a specific metreage and are great for classic ‘repeat planting’ which will create a larger stunning display or repeated along a lengthy border resulting in a beautiful summer display. Once again, the Frame Yard at Holden Clough, which is tucked away in the pretty hamlet of Holden, will be producing four show gardens to help inspire you with your plant combinations and plant heights. The gravelled beck area has an extensive display of pots from huge centrepieces to smaller versions, with a stone water feature as a pretty backdrop and the Holden Clough Croft pod at the hub. A trip to Holden Clough is a must this spring – from the glasshouse with its beautiful displays of vintage-style furniture and accessories to the forthcoming artisan markets, you will delight in the magic of this stunning destination. n
ARTISAN MARKETS:
Bluebell 22nd-24th April Lilac 6th-8th May Rose 10th-12th June All individually named with inspirational makers and collections, handpicked for their artisan qualities with delightful handmade products BOOK A TIME ONLINE holdenclough.com
Holden Clough Nurseries
Holden, Bolton-by-Bowland, Clitheroe BB7 4PF 01200 447615 holdenclough.com Open 7 days a week: 9am till 5pm Script Font Bi ham Script Pro
HISTORIC STEAM FAIR
Organiser of the Slaidburn Steam Fair David McNamee is delighted to see the return of the historic fair this year
The legendary Slaidburn Steam Fair is back and bigger than ever! The fair will, as usual, be located at the Hark to Bounty in the heart of the village of Slaidburn on 11th and 12th June with a good number of steam engines arriving from all parts of Lancashire and Cheshire.
Along with 50 vintage tractors and 50 vintage cars, there will be entertainment over the twoday event.
Since its inception four decades ago, Slaidburn Steam Fair has been organised single-handedly by David McNamee who, in 2019, was the winner of a Special Recommendation prize at the Ribble Valley Stars of Tourism Awards held at Holmes Mill. The glass trophy and certificate recognised his singular work and dedication to the Slaidburn Steam Fair over the years.
During the 40-year running of the fair more than £88,000 has been raised for local village charities and organisations.
This year donations will be made to Brennands Endowed School, Slaidburn and Thorneyholme Primary School, Dunsop Bridge.
“I enjoy organising the fair tremendously. It’s a lot of hard work – we don’t have a committee which makes decisions easier, but we do have a lot of local support from the village,” explains David.
With free admission, this year’s fair will feature a country craft fair with a clog maker, basket weaver, rugmaker and rusher, along with a fairground organ.
On the Sunday there will be clog dancers and the renowned, celebratory barbecue.
Having been forced to cancel the event over the past two years, David is delighted that the fair is back: “As far as exhibits go, we have had to turn people away as it’s so busy. We have some rare steam engines including two showman’s locomotives. The support we have seen has been fantastic!” n
Slaidburn Steam Fair 11th and 12th June from 10.30am Free admission slaidburnsteam.co.uk
LUXURY LODGES FOR SALE
BEAUTIFUL SPACES
Whether you’re seeking to maximise space at home, in your business or looking for a holiday escape, lodges, pods and garden rooms can all be viewed as great investments
If you are looking for a holiday home on one of the beautifully appointed lodge parks in the region, there are many to choose from, giving you the ultimate weekend escape as well as a property that can be let as and when you choose, enabling you to reap the benefits.
Renting out your lodge could cover the maintenance costs and more, while you can still use it as your personal holiday destination – making it a sound investment.
As lodges are becoming more and more luxurious, properties are being kitted out with all the latest fixtures, fittings and accessories to make life more enjoyable during your stay.
Don’t be surprised to find hot tubs on the decking for those balmy summer evenings or lovely wood burners in the contemporary living spaces to keep you warm on chilly autumn nights.
When choosing on which park to buy a lodge, choose wisely – look at the location, visit some of the local inns and restaurants ask yourself all the relevant questions. Are they located within walking or cycling distance of local amenities, are there shops nearby and are there lots of lovely walks and rambles to enjoy?
For your own enjoyment and for that of renting holidaymakers, there are lots of things to take into consideration.
When it comes to adding a garden room or pod to your property to add extra room, you will need to ask different questions.
How big does the room need to be? What is it going to be used for, what about heating, water and electricity? While pods and garden rooms may be similar in structure to lodges their use is varied and
they don’t necessarily need to be on your own property – some pods are perfect for adding extra space to a commercial property to be used as a base for business.
Pods are often contemporary spaces that have high-spec insulation and 21st century technology.
If you are installing a pod or garden room as a home office, study or quiet space in which to enjoy your garden, bear in mind that the initial cost may seem expensive, but kit it out in the correct way and it will add value to your property when you come to sell in the future.
So, all in all if you’re looking for a holiday park lodge or if you would like to create extra space at your business premises or in your garden, lodges, pods and garden rooms are all fabulous options and worthwhile investments. n
RURAL IDYLL
As a great investment opportunity, you can own a luxury lodge in one of the finest locations in the country
One of the Ribble Valley’s most attractive and popular lodge parks has a number of luxury lodges for sale. This is an opportunity to own a lodge – buy on-site, as seen with a 12-month licence – representing a great investment!
PHASE ONE
Ribble Valley View launched more than a decade ago with 30 lodges and a number of these are available to view on-site and purchase now. Due to their unrivalled location, tucked away in the rural Ribble Valley, these lodges have been incredibly popular as holiday rentals. Owned and run by the Simpson family Philip, Ian, Robert and Helen, the 40-acre lodge site represents a hugely successful diversification project. Coming from a dairy farming background spanning more than 100 years, this fourth-generation family have developed the lodge park into a popular holiday destination as well as a thriving hub within the Ribble Valley. The Simpsons have brought thousands of visitors to the area, which is renowned for its beautiful countryside, fabulous food and hospitality. Understandably, the park attracts holidaymakers, owners and investors from throughout the UK.
VIEW NOW!
Surrounded by green fields and farmland, the Phase One lodges that are for sale,
enjoy stunning views over Longridge Fell and Stonyhurst College and with high demand anticipated, potential buyers can view the lodges now – as seen on site.
Photography: Kirsten Platt YOU CHOOSE
As an investment this is perfect – as a buyer you can choose exactly how you would like to use your luxury lodge. You could buy and let your lodge throughout the year through Airbnb or through the team at Ribble Valley View. Alternatively, you can earn income from letting as and when you choose, while still enjoying your very own holiday lodge in one of the most desirable areas of the country, surrounded by nature. The lodges can be short term holiday rentals or long-term holiday homes. It’s a good investment opportunity and a great asset.
UNRIVALLED LOCATION
Nestled in a sought-after rural location, Ribble Valley View lodge owners and holidaymakers enjoy high-speed wi-fi and high-tech security within this gated community. Surrounded by fields, woodlands and indigenous wildlife, they can take advantage of the many and varied walks around the countryside as well as visiting the renowned
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THE BLACK BULL PUBLIC HOUSE
CHAPEL OF ST LEONARDS
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OLD LANGHO ROAD OLD LANGHO ROAD
Photography: Kirsten Platt Photography: Kirsten Platt
country inns and restaurants and experience all the wonderful destinations that the Ribble Valley has to offer.
The lodge park is located next to the highly acclaimed Black Bull at Old Langho, as Ian Simpson explains: “We support the pub and they support us. It’s a great country inn and restaurant that our owner occupiers and holiday guests can enjoy, with great quality food and just a stone’s throw away.”
WE ARE REALLY PASSIONATE ABOUT WHAT WE DO AND GIVEN THAT PEOPLE ARE FAVOURING STAYCATIONS, THE LODGES ARE EXTREMELY POPULAR PHASE TWO
The Simpson family are delighted to announce they have been granted planning permission to develop Phase Two of Ribble Valley View. This will feature 19 new luxury lodges overlooking Dinckley Brook. Potential buyers can pick their plot and buy off plan now. n
RIBBLE VALLEY VIEW
PHASE ONE LODGES NOW ON SALE AND AVAILABLE TO VIEW ON-SITE NOW COMING SOON: PHASE TWO Enquiries call: 0800 181 4044
Ribble Valley View Old Langho Road, Old Langho BB6 8AW 0800 181 4044 hello@ribblevalleyview.com ribblevalleyview.com hoseasons.co.uk stonesyoung.co.uk
ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME EXPERIENCE
A charity football match has raised an amazing £20,000 for worthy causes. Photography: Paul Currie
Ewood Park recently hosted the inaugural Blackburn Rovers Community Trust Football Aid in the Community charity match – Blackburn Rovers Home v Blackburn Rovers Away.
The evening gave Rovers fans a once-ina-lifetime opportunity to play alongside, and be managed by, former Rovers players including Danny Graham, David Dunn, Derek Fazackerley, Howard Gayle and Mark Atkins – all under the floodlights of Ewood Park.
Money generated from winning bids for a place in the team, ticket sales and via the trust’s Just Giving page, helped raised much needed funds to support Tony Parkes and his family, amid spiralling care costs following the club legend’s diagnosis with Alzheimer’s in 2019. The event also supported local community projects, such as Remember the Rovers, which supports people with dementia, as well as other initiatives aimed at tackling social isolation among the elderly.
The response to the event was overwhelming, with support from local businesses and fans alike. Greenthumb Lawn Treatment Services were the main event sponsors, with other businesses generously supporting the event too – LCC scaffolding, The Ref Stop, McDonald’s, Blades Building & Roofing, Lune Valley Pods and Norwest Medical Services.
Martin Winters, Senior Business Support Manager from Blackburn Rovers Community Trust explained: “We were blown away with the support we received from Rovers fans across the country and how people came together to make the event a success.
“We wanted to raise as much money as possible for worthwhile causes, whilst ensuring the fans, who won a place in the team were rewarded with a professional, once-in-a- lifetime, match-day experience. The participants used the first team dressing rooms, with their unique match-day kit waiting for them. They then walked out of the famous tunnel to a roaring crowd and the flash of cameras before gracing the hallowed turf for what was a very competitive game of football.
“Feedback from the day has been excellent, with players and spectators enjoying their time at Ewood Park, which helped raise over £20,000! We want to thank everyone for their support, and we look forward to Football Aid in the Community 2023.”
Taking part in the match, sponsor Tyler Stevenson from Greenthumb, said: “The atmosphere was electric, lining up in the tunnel with Derek Fazackerley and Mark Atkins giving final instructions to the two teams and then running out, it really was an authentic pro-footballer experience.
“The 600 strong crowd really got into the spirit of things and created a great atmosphere. The Rovers legends were brilliant, making sure we had a great time. Earlier on that day I’d been aerating and scarifying customers’ lawns so I went from groundsman to pro-footballer in a matter of hours. On behalf of all the players and sponsors I want to thank the trust for all their hard work making the night such a great experience. I can’t wait for next year’s event!” n
IN THE SADDLE
Within the Pony Club, there are many ridden disciplines to participate in, and the core of Chipping’s ethos is to take every opportunity to try something new, writes Megan Conlon. Photography: Diane Marsden
One of the Pony Club disciplines is mounted games which I describe to my non-horsey friends as ‘relay races on horseback’, with various obstacles to navigate and items to manoeuvre. The age range is from three to 14, which neatly encompasses many different levels of riding experience.
It is a discipline which enables members to start out at novice level and advance all the way to national competitions, such as the Horse of the Year Show or Windsor Horse Show, or even international ones!
Beginners, who are at grass roots level, can still be on a lead rein. Then, as their confidence and ability strengthens, they may join a junior team and compete for their club. If they are successful, they may qualify for the Pony Club Championships.
Over time, they then progress to a senior team and compete in the Prince Phillip Cup. This begins at the area competitions, which are held once a year in all 19 Pony Club Areas around the UK. The winners of these competitions move to the Zone Finals and the winners of those compete at the world-famous Horse of the Year Show.
There are some common races, which feature in many competitions – the simple bending race which involves weaving between poles, the mug race where riders move mugs from one pole to another and the flag race, involving moving flags from one cone to the next, all while maintaining speed and staying on board! At higher levels, new games are introduced, such as a sack race and even one involving a pantomime horse!
Some members specialise in mounted games and have ponies who purely excel in the fast-paced races. The majority, however, have just one pony who does all disciplines at Pony Club. Prince Phillip himself attested that he originally designed the Prince Phillip Cup for ‘ordinary children on ordinary ponies’, so anyone can give it a go!
Over the years, Chipping has been successful within this discipline and have competed at the Zone Finals! This year, we started the season with a handful of riders, who were completely new to the sport and had to be trained from scratch. This was done by one of our members, Sarah Hoare, who is well-versed in mounted games and used that knowledge to coach our team members to be competition-ready. Throughout the Winter League competitions, which took place on (often cold and wet) Friday evenings, the team were able to improve their performance every time, consistently getting higher placings as they went on. We are very much looking forward to entering a team into the area competition where we can put all the hard work into practice. n
If you’d like to know more about Pony Club, and in particular Chipping Branch, please contact the District Commissioner Joanne Conlon 01200 445143 or email: chipping@pcuk.org
ALL SET…
Jason Fildes, of Highclere Racing, looks at the prospects of the two-year-olds and when they are likely to be seen on the racecourse
We were in Middleham this week looking at the new two-year-olds beginning to step up their training ahead of making racecourse debuts in the next couple of months.
There are two colts at Karl Burke’s Spigot Lodge stables, both of whom look very promising.
Design is Highclere’s home bred by Expert Eye. Karl thinks it will probably be towards the end of May before he’s ready to run over six furlongs.
The well named Edmund Ironside, whose sire Saxon Warrior won the 2000 Guineas over one mile is also unlikely to be sharp enough to be an out and out sprinter, so probably won’t be seen until the six-furlong races start for these youngsters (up until the Dante meeting at York it’s five furlongs only for two-year-olds).
As it’s an early start in the training yards at this time of year, some of the owners went up the night before and we had an excellent dinner at the Wensleydale Heifer in West Witton. A full English breakfast was a must the following morning before we set out onto Low Moor to see the horses working over four furlongs.
As well as bringing better weather, spring also accelerates the development of the young colts and fillies – and these months are wonderful times in racehorse ownership with their potential yet untapped and all the dreams very much alive!
Mid-morning, we moved on to the other end of Middleham Moor and the fabulous facilities at Kingsley Park stables. Mark Johnston now shares the trainer licence with his son, Charlie. Like with all family businesses, this seems a natural progression with Mark, the winning-most trainer in the history of UK racing, taking a chairman -type role with Charlie overseeing day to day operations.
Our chestnut filly, Fragrance, by Oasis Dream only arrived in Yorkshire just before Christmas and she looked absolutely gorgeous in the sunshine. There is some talk of her potentially running in a quality fillies’ novice race at Chester at the beginning of May, but she needs to prove herself in a trial gallop before then.
Of all these two-year-olds, the first to run is probably going to be Admiral Jack, a very handsome steel grey colt, beautifully bred by Coolmore Stud who retained 20 per cent – always a good sign when the breeders want to keep an interest!
Charlie said that he expected Admiral Jack to make his debut before the end of April. Personally, I can’t wait to see him run as he seems to have a brilliant attitude and the Johnstons have plenty of other youngsters to compare him with.
It’s going to be great fun to see how these lovely horses fare at the start of their racing careers and let’s hope they give their owners lots of fun – and some wonderful days ahead. n
Highclere – Jason Fildes 01200 444622 07721 311778 jason@highclere.co.uk highclereracing.co.uk
SPRING INTO CYCLING
With the onset of warmer weather, lighter mornings and evenings more people are getting into cycling. We catch up with Ashley Brough, Ribble Cycles’ Retail Manager to get an insight into what you should consider when buying a bike
What makes Ribble so special and what qualities make your bikes stand out?
As one of the oldest bicycle brands in the world we have a lot of cycling knowledge, and bike design expertise but, it is genuinely the people behind the brand that make it special and standout. We endorse our brand values and embody our cycling passion through everything we do. ‘Real’ ‘Bike’ ‘People’ is the message which you will see illuminated in the showroom. This ethos permeates through everything we do as a business – from when you first enter our showroom and speak with our retail experts to the design innovation that we lead the market in, right down to the bespoke hand-building of our product.
What are the key considerations when buying a bike?
We have such a vast range that covers every riding genre and discipline – from road, off-road, gravel and adventure through to hybrids, commuter and e-bikes, so it can be a daunting task figuring out what you want and really need. Everything we do is designed to ensure the customer can easily define what is correct for them either online or better still with one of our in-store specialists. Here we can tailor your needs to a specific model built solely for you and your intended use. We consider everything for the user from sizing, gears, wheels, tires and all touch points. All crucial considerations when choosing a bike to fit your individual needs.
Can I test ride a Ribble before I buy one?
We will be hosting various events at our flagship showroom in Clitheroe and offering test rides from across the range. We understand that customers need this. It further enhances our proposition and complete customer buying experience. So, please watch this space!
Are Ribble bikes expensive?
The broadness of our range is designed to fit the pockets of all our customers. We ensure that we are inclusive to everyone’s needs when it comes to investing in a bicycle, which is why we offer a competitive product at a competitive price. The custom ‘BikeBuilder’ nature and uniqueness of our brand enables customers to run away with their imagination and build something truly special to them and that can work within their budget. We also offer financial options to help assist so that everyone can ride and enjoy their dream Ribble bike.
And finally, what is your favourite Ribble bike and why?
Never easy, given our range and my broad love of cycling. However, it would have to be the Ribble Hybrid Trail AL. Versatility is key to my limited leisure time, and as someone with a young active family it is a bike I can utilise in any setting or scenario. n
Ribble Cycles ribblecycles.co.uk
FOR ADVENTURERS
Whether you take your own bike or hire one from our Dunsop HQ, enjoy the ride through Slaidburn and past Stocks Reservoir. Or arrange to have one of our e-mountain bikes delivered to The Hub – Gisburn Forest is THE place to go for mountain biking and off-road trails.
ROUTES TO SUIT
Every cyclist is different, and Ribble Valley e-Bikes owner Roger Wolstenholme knows there’s a local route to suit everyone
We’re very lucky in our little corner of Lancashire that there are great opportunities to explore by bike, whatever your age, ability or interest. Whether you want to take in the views, take it easy, take the kids or take a ride on the wild side – you can do it all, and it all starts in Dunsop Bridge. We’ve highlighted just a few routes here, with full details online.
FOR FAMILIES
First things first – an ice cream at Puddleducks and a trip to the park! Practice with the children’s trailer or kid’s seats up Brennand Valley (look out for kingfishers) and then tootle over to the Wild Boar Park via Little Bowland for a scenic ride and fun-filled afternoon. Come back via Chipping and grab a brew at Chipping Farm Shop or an evening meal at the Inn at Whitwell.
FOR FOODIES
Indulge in some of the best food in the North West right on our doorstep. Set out over Jeffrey to Ribchester for breakfast at Stydd Garden, carry on to Hurst Green for a cycle around scenic Stonyhurst and lunch at the Shireburn, and then pedal up an appetite for the best steak you’ve had this year at the Red Pump Inn. Head back over Hall Hill, and don’t worry, the electric drive will give you a boost when you need it after such a deliciously decadent day. FOR EXPLORERS
Versatility is key to this scenic route – you can build your own adventure, depending on how fit you’re feeling or how far you’re committed to going. From Dunsop Bridge to Slaidburn via Back Lane, there are a number of loops (of different distance) you can then choose to take a route across or around Easington Fell and return via Waddington Fell, Whitewell or Chipping. Your efforts will be rewarded with great views at every turn.
Find out more about these trails on the website or drop us a line and we’ll do what we can to help design a route to suit you
For full details of each route and suggested stopping points visit: ribblevalley-ebikehire.co.uk
Sale & Rental service of premium brand electric bikes for all ages & abilities, on or off-road.
SALES CENTER PEEL STREET, CLITHEROE BB7 1RA ribblevalley-e-bikes.co.uk
01200 426246
RENTAL CENTER DUNSOP BRIDGE GARAGE, DUNSOP BRIDGE CLITHEROE BB7 3BB
