Live Ribble Valley Issue 136 October 2022

AUTOMATED WIRELESS BLINDS

Residential and commercial solutions that put you in control.

Wireless blinds are cost effective, easy to maintain and ideal for areas that require a wire free solution.

Reduce unwanted glare, save energy, and provide privacy to your living space – simply.

Choose from Roller or Insulating Honeycomb Wireless systems.

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

01772 862 266

bernarddickinson.co.uk

andrew@bernarddickinson.co.uk

CONTENTS

FEATURES

12 URBAN LANDSCAPES

Ribble Valley artist Simon Blackley had a ‘creative silence’ for three decades. Having resumed painting four years ago, he is now enjoying success painting portraits and urban landscapes.

120 BUSINESS HOUR

Ribble Valley-based James Knowles is executive chairman of First Class Metals, a company that focuses on the exploration for precious and base metals in Ontario, Canada.

126 LONGRIDGE & LONGEVITY

Sports enthusiast Michael Hodkinson talks to Lee Ashcroft, the manager of Longridge Town FC, whose sights are firmly set on promotion.

128 SECRET RECIPE

Craft baker Callum Robertson and his wife Gina took over Stables Pies two years ago – and have truly discovered the recipe for success!

150 DIFFERENT DIMENSION

Creating intricate pieces of artwork, Yasuyo Cooper is an expert in the ancient Japanese arts of origami and tsumami.

REGULARS

Stand out from the crowd.

Porsche Macan range.

LIVE MAGAZINES

Chairman: Simon Smith

Managing Director: Tedd Walmsley

Company Secretary: Elizabeth Walmsley

Editor: Jan Woolley

Graphic Designers: Nick Dittrich and Rob Walmsley Operations Manager: Kate Hyde Production Manager: James Britton

Sales Account Manager: Jane Hughes 07875 696 928

Photography: Robin Lyndon, Andy Lynes and Kirsten Platt

Editorial contributors: Paul Agnew, Gail Bailey, Emma Brereton, Michael J Hodkinson, Kate Hyde, Meena McDonald, Jenni Walmsley, Robert Walmsley, Liz Walmsley and Tedd Walmsley

RIBBLE VALLEY OFFICE

Office 9 The Old Bakery, Green Street, Lytham FY8 5LG T: 01772 319 465

LIVE RIBBLE VALLEY magazine is hand delivered to selected households and businesses in Balderstone, Barrow, Barrowford, Bashall Eaves, Bolton by Bowland, Brockhall Village, Broughton, Chaigley, Chatburn, Chipping, Clitheroe, Copster Green, Dinckley, Downham, Dutton, Fence, Gisburn, Goosnargh, Grimsargh, Grindleton, Higham, Holden, Horton in Craven, Hothersall, Hurst Green, Knowle Green, Langho and Billington, Longridge, Mellor, Osbaldeston, Pendleton, Pleasington, Read, Ribchester, Rimington, Rivington, Sabden, Salesbury, Samlesbury, Sawley, Simonstone, Twiston, Waddington, West Bradford, Whalley, Whittingham, Wilpshire, Wiswell, Worston.

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Magazines

In this autumn issue of Live Ribble Valley we pay tribute to our late Queen, we celebrate local heroes who are dedicated to helping others and we meet some truly talented people.

I have always believed that this little part of England is full of inspirational characters, beautiful places and businesses small and large, that are all intent on making life better.

This month we meet artist Simon Blackley who after what he calls a ‘creative silence’, which lasted three decades, is painting again to much acclaim. Simon who lives in the Ribble Valley, has a large collection of work focusing on urban landscapes and portraits, some of which feature homeless people on the streets of London and Manchester. He is set to hold his first solo exhibition next month.

Also an artist, working in a very different medium, is Yasuyo Cooper who was born in Tokyo and came to live in the UK with her young family. An expert in the Japanese arts of origami and tsumami, Yasuyo developed her creative skills as a therapeutic way of helping her settle in this country.

In this issue we also discover eco-escapes across Lancashire, meet a talented craft baker, chat to a longserving football manager and we turn the spotlight on a soap box derby debut that has raised funds for Longridge Community Action, which is supporting the most vulnerable in the town.

With the nights drawing in and temperatures falling, autumn will soon drift into winter and our thoughts will soon turn to Christmas!

We hope you enjoy this issue of Live Ribble Valley.

Jan Woolley Editor

All that they

To see more of this and other fabulous kitchens visit the case studies page on our website.

Sleek Contemporary Style

When a family from Bolton wanted to replace their kitchen with a cutting-edge, sleek contemporary one, Stuart Frazer came highly recommended by friends.

They contacted Paul Rigby at Stuart Frazer to not only design the kitchen but to project manage all the elements of the renovation too.

A sleek contemporary look was what the family were after and they were clear that they wanted a dark kitchen with a moody look and Walnut incorporating in to the design. They also wanted the whole space to match their existing floor tiles.

Paul recommended Graphite grey with Oro Quartz worktops and introduced Walnut in to a niche back wall detail which broke up the tall bank. This was mirrored with the walnut table around the island.

Cleverly designed storage including a pantry cupboard means appliances can be hidden away and when opened, the cupboard provides extra working space.

The family were delighted with the way Stuart Frazer managed the whole project, bringing in other trades such as electricians and plumbers.

The family love their new kitchen space and can’t praise Stuart Frazer enough. They found their service to be outstanding, from Paul right down to the fitters.

Set to hold his first solo exhibition, artist Simon Blackley’s work has been highly acclaimed. His controversial subject matter often focuses on urban landscapes and homeless people, sleeping rough on the streets of Manchester and London.

When he began painting again in 2018, after a break of more than three decades, he started painting rural landscapes but as he recalls: “I felt painting landscapes was an acceptable start and a good return to painting. However, I needed to prove to myself I could be an artist.”

When he left Blackburn College at the age of 18 Simon abandoned his dream of becoming an artist and he began a career in textile design. With work and family commitments he didn’t pick up a paint brush until decades later: “It was quite a gap in terms of creative silence,” he says.

“My first painting seemed to feel like I was emptying all the creative information that had accumulated over the years. It was semi-abstract and a real expression of how I felt at the time. Looking back there was an element of finding my feet.”

Simon went on to do 12 landscapes of varying sizes – of locations across the Ribble Valley from Longridge Fell to Pendle Hill and entered the 2018 Open Exhibition at Clitheroe Castle.

Enjoying considerable success at the exhibition, he went on to sell the original paintings as well as limited edition prints and he decided to take studio space in the heart of Clitheroe.

“At home your discipline disappears so I knew if I was going to paint seriously, I needed a studio. It took a few months before I really settled into the space and starting painting,” adds Simon.

“While I work in textiles, the painting has become much more than a hobby.”

In 2020 Simon changed direction and began to concentrate on portrait painting:

URBAN LANDSCAPES

“I felt I needed to prove my ability to myself, so I started experimenting and tackled the complex subject of portrait painting.

“While I had numerous failures, I approached it in a very disciplined way. The likeness has to be there and it’s the process of measuring that captures the person, seeing your mistakes and correcting them is the key. Don’t allow your brain to kid you, paint what you see.

rest of his clothes and when I started to paint him the trainers seemed to be the focal point of the canvas, they were so white against the backdrop it makes you question the image.

“There is a lot of information around each painting, from mark application, colour and in some cases, the under painting left in view – none are perfect as my style is very loose, which suits the subject.”

A number of the large-format paintings in Simon’s ‘Home Street Home’ collection have been kept back to exhibit in his solo show.

“Finding portraits to paint was quite difficult as we were in lockdown and I was desperate to find subject matter. The cities were empty but for homeless people sleeping on the streets.

“I had to travel to the textile showroom in London with work, which was permitted at the time as it was classed as business.”

Seeing the homeless people on the streets gave Simon the idea of capturing them on camera – then working them into a painting. It was something that resulted in him creating a large body of highly acclaimed work.

“The photographs I took gave me different ideas. It’s only when you remove the public from the streets do you really see the homeless community, I didn’t want to just show the sadness but somehow highlight a thread of happiness.

“It was quite an eye-opener. Some people had stories to tell, of how they came to be sleeping rough. I took many photographs and when you look into their eyes there is a great depth and I tried to interpret that and capture it in my paintings.

“On one occasion I took a long distance shot of a man sitting on the pavement. He had the cleanest pair of Nike trainers which seemed so out of context with the

“The paintings are a metre square, oil on canvas so it’s been quite a learning curve working in large format for me,” he says.

Inspired by the success of this work, Simon has continued with the urban theme: “It’s a theme I particularly like. I recently walked from one end of Blackburn to the other taking photographs of industrial estates and car parks and what struck me was the intensity of the blocks of colours within that environment.

“Two industrial rubbish bins caught my eye – one was lime green the other bright

Ribble Valley artist Simon Blackley had a ‘creative silence’ for three decades. Having resumed painting four years ago, he is now enjoying considerable success

THE KEY FOR ME IS LOOKING AT SOMETHING AND CAPTURING IT CORRECTLY WITH VERY CONSIDERED BRUSH STROKES

yellow. They were in a particularly awful part of an estate, but the light and the shadow made the painting work.”

His love of urban scenes was reflected in a painting Simon completed in the Paint Padiham competition, as he recalls: “All the artists taking part were painting the high street, which has recently been really smartened up.

“I found a bin and a street cone in a back alleyway – the deep shadows and shade were amazing. I don’t like to be traditional I like to find an element of ugliness that

WE WERE TASKED WITH PAINTING THE NORTH PIER AT BLACKPOOL. IT WAS QUITE DAUNTING, BUT I WAS VERY CALCULATED AND SPENT A LOT OF TIME, MEASURING THE PERSPECTIVE BEFOREHAND

through the painting, show signs of beauty.

“Very few artists feature cars in their work, they are regarded as an eyesore on the landscape as they are notoriously difficult to paint. I decided to learn how to successfully paint cars observing the reflections and symmetry.”

Entering Paint Garstang this year, Simon won the competition with his painting of Market Square, featuring cars on the high street. The painting was praised for its technical execution and keen observation.

Simon is also set to appear on TV’s Sky Landscape Artist of the Year, which is to be aired in the New Year: “I can’t say too much about it, but we were tasked with painting the North Pier at Blackpool. It was quite daunting, but I was very

calculated and spent a lot of time, measuring the perspective beforehand then approached the canvas with the paint – my painting process is fast which given the time restraints proved to be an asset. It suits my style to work quickly.”

Using a square brush and palette knife to apply paint to canvas, Simon is a great admirer of British painter Lucien Freud and French artist Francis Bard.

“I love the way Francis adds layers and at the same time tunes in detail –it fascinates me how this process works. I look at his paintings and find myself bringing his techniques to my palette and canvas. His works just amazes me.

“When I was 18 and studying art, my work was very detailed and a little contrived, but I feel I have found my style or maybe a comfortable technique that I can continue to build upon. The key for me is looking at something and capturing it correctly with very considered brush strokes. It’s often what’s left out of a painting that’s important.

“Every time I paint, it’s a step further, refining my technique. There’s still so much to explore in the urban landscape.” n

Simon Blackley’s solo exhibition at Atelier Arts, Harris Court Wellgate, Clitheroe, begins with an open evening on 4th November 7pm-9pm  and runs for two weeks

THE LIKENESS HAS TO BE THERE AND IT’S THE PROCESS OF MEASURING THAT CAPTURES THE PERSON

When only the best will do

As a renowned estate agent, our customer knows the importance of the kitchen when it comes to selling houses. Working in the Ribble Valley for many years, he’d seen a wide range of kitchens and knows various kitchen companies by reputation and quality. When it came to replacing the kitchen in his own Ribble Valley home, our customer didn’t go anywhere else. He went straight to Kitchen Design Centre and Will Hustler at the Blackburn showroom.

Design was important and with a complex space with lots of doors, it needed consideration from an expert which is where Will came in. As a busy family, the space needed to accommodate formal and casual dining. Top of the family’s wish list was an island and Will came up with a contemporary design that worked perfectly in the space, allowing for both dining and entertaining.

They found the whole process from inception and their initial meeting with Will to completion with the fitters to be seamless and efficient and can’t praise Will or Kitchen Design Centre enough, “we love our new kitchen. It has totally transformed the space and enhanced how we use it. We’re really impressed with Will and the whole Kitchen Design Centre team. We picked them because of their reputation and design capabilities and they certainly lived up to it. The finished space not only looks fantastic but is functional too.”

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

Designer Will Hustler says,

“I knew a dark kitchen would work well and I’m delighted that the family trusted me and went with my contemporary, bold design which opens up the space and uses it effectively, combining preparation areas with casual dining. The sink on the back wall was also a brave move but really works.”

0161

Wickentree

M35

Manchester M41 0TZ 0161 749 9254

Liverpool L25

0151 428 0020

Candles and lighting make a huge difference to the ambience of a room or outdoor space. These classic neutrals will enhance and highlight

Loom Loft Barrow Brook Business Village Holly Road, Barrow Clitheroe BB7 9WF 01200 404404 loomloft.co.uk

STONE

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

ILLUMINATE YOUR MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING

If you think about it, most of us spend the better part of the day absorbing static artificial light which can have a negative impact on our overall health. Fluorescent lighting in the office, the blue glow from your mobile phones and the light that emanates from a computer screen, all have a reputation for contributing negatively towards our mental state.

Paul Hindle, founder of Lumenata, explains how using the latest LED lighting technology and giving more consideration to light architecture in the home and workplace may help to improve mental health and productivity.

Light is the very thing that guides us day to day but also has a deep impact on our mental health and wellbeing, writes Emma Brereton

apartment. The apartment had low levels of natural light and there was no way to add windows to allow the daylight to flood in.

The solution was to install an innovative product that imitates natural daylight. This biodynamic LED light is an electronic skylight which is installed in the ceiling and can give the feel of bright sunshine even on the gloomiest days. It changes colour and

said: “After having the electronic skylight installed, we feel a lot more comfortable in our home. On entering the kitchen and living room it feels as if we are walking into daylight. In all honesty, it took us a couple of weeks to get used to the novelty of it, we simply couldn’t stop looking at it. We are incredibly impressed and it was definitely a worthwhile upgrade.”

The benefits of improving light

new respite centre for people living with autism. The concept included no harsh light sources and kept all lighting systems flexible. Lights can be dimmed when needed and specific colours can be chosen to reflect mood and feelings.”

Although studies are in their infancy, the studies that have been carried out show a number of benefits to biodynamic LED lighting including improved focus and productivity, better learning performance, elevated mood and reduced stress.

Lumenata is an accredited Lighting Industry Association member and has grown over the last 15 years to become one of the most respected lighting design practices in the North West.

Paul says: “Over the last two decades we have been

Paul says: “We believe that good quality lighting design improves our lives in so many ways. It helps us to unwind at home whereas in commercial applications, good lighting design can increase our productivity and mood in the work place.”

Recently, Lumenata was approached by an interior designer who was working with a client moving into a ground floor

THE ELECTRONIC SKYLIGHT INSTALLED BY LUMENATA AUTOMATICALLY CHANGES COLOUR AND INTENSITY TO MIMIC NATURAL DAYLIGHT

intensity as the day progresses in a similar fashion to natural daylight, in tune with what our brains have been accustomed to since man first walked the earth.

Upon completion of the installation, Lumenata’s client

in the work place and where we live are becoming so apparent, that a wide range of organisations are approaching Lumenata to assist with improving their space. Paul added: “We were asked by an architect for advice on a

providing lighting design to homeowners, architects, interior designers, electrical contractors and commercial end users of lighting.” n

Lumenata Unit 24, Dollywagon Way Preston PR5 6EW 01772 312416 info@lumenata.co.uk

to inspire...

Bathrooms to inspire...

...for over 16 years we have been creating everything you need for a luxurious & practical bathroom or kitchen.

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...for over 16 years we have been creating everything you need for a luxurious & practical bathroom or kitchen.

...for over 16 years we have been creating everything you need for a luxurious & practical bathroom or kitchen.

...for over 16 years we have been creating everything you need for a luxurious & practical bathroom or kitchen.

3000 sq ft

SHOWROOM OPEN FOR APPOINTMENTS ONLY, PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL TO ARRANGE.

Be inspired in our 3000 sq ft showroom

SHOWROOM OPEN FOR APPOINTMENTS ONLY, PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL TO ARRANGE. We are adhering to social distancing guidelines.

SHOWROOM OPEN FOR APPOINTMENTS ONLY, PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL TO ARRANGE. We are adhering to social distancing guidelines.

SHOWROOM OPEN FOR APPOINTMENTS ONLY, PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL TO ARRANGE.

SHOWROOM OPEN FOR APPOINTMENTS ONLY, PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL TO ARRANGE.

We are adhering to social distancing guidelines.

We are adhering to social distancing guidelines.

We are adhering to social distancing guidelines.

DESIGN • SUPPLY • INSTALL

Original Bathroom

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Original Bathroom Company tel: 01772 611622 www.theoriginalbathroomcompany.co.uk

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

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

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Next to Booths Supermarket

Next to Booths Supermarket

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AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

The Original Bathroom Company tel: 01772 611622 www.theoriginalbathroomcompany.co.uk 84 Liverpool Road, Longton, Preston PR4 5NB • Next to Booths Supermarket EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

84 Liverpool Road, Longton, Preston PR4 5NB • Next to Booths Supermarket

EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

WORLD BEATING TECHNOLOGY

It’s time to get tuned in to the latest technology to watch the 2022 World Cup on one of the best TVs that bring events to life with crystal clear images and surround sound

The forthcoming 2022 World Cup is set to be one of the most exciting and unique FIFA competitions in its history. In November sports fans will be tuning in to the event, which is being hosted in Qatar.

So, are you all set for this ultimately entertaining competition that will no doubt have us on the edge of our seats?

It is one of the shortest World Cups,

with the final on 18th December, so make the most of it and feel part of the action with the very latest viewing technology.

WHEN THE ACTION KICKS OFF IN QATAR, YOU’LL FEEL LIKE YOU’RE THERE IN THE STADIUM WATCHING THE WORLD’S BEST FOOTBALLERS COMPETE FOR THE ULTIMATE TROPHY

At Harry Garlick you will find an extensive collection of state-of-the-art, high-tech TVs from world-leading brands including Samsung, LG, Panasonic and Sony.

Imagine sitting in front of a huge screen that brings the action right into your sitting room – or even your garden.

Harry Garlick showcases an impressive collection of all the latest models all under one roof – the Sony QD OLED not only has a fabulously sharp picture, it features immersive sound thanks to acoustic surface technology – the entire screen become your speaker!

The latest Samsung too features OLED screen technology making an ordinary picture extraordinary with self-illuminating pixels that deliver superb contrast and breathtaking cinematic detail.

Transform your viewing with a 77-inch Panasonic that brings pictures to life on a next-generation screen panel.

For the more budget conscious is a Samsung that comes in varying sizes and has colour volume and Quantum Dot display technology.

Or for an outdoor experience why not get the hot tub and wood-burner fired up and set up the Samsung Terrace TV – a great way to throw a World Cup party!

So, when the action kicks off in Qatar, you’ll feel like you’re there in the stadium watching the world’s best footballers compete for the ultimate trophy.

With a home entertainment system from Harry Garlick films and sporting events spring to life on the screen with crystal clear images and surround sound.

With something for every budget, get your home entertainment system set up in time for World Cup action!

Look out for upcoming Black Friday deals and offers or why not rent one of the latest TVs?

In a deal similar to that of a mobile phone, rent a TV and after two years be eligible for a sleek new upgrade! n

To find out more call in to the Clitheroe store and speak to the experts

Harry Garlick 26-30 King Street Clitheroe BB7 2EP 01200 421080 harrygarlick.co.uk

GET YOUR HOME READY FOR CHRISTMAS

DECLUTTER

Be ruthless! Don’t feel guilty, clear spaces of unnecessary items. You will feel calmer and less anxious. Extra guests, gifts, food and decorations will be brought into your home during this time. Stay in control and think about what you want to achieve.

Theofano Interiors stocks an abundance of faux foliage and berries to add to this and create a longer lasting display.

FRAGRANCE

There is nothing like stepping inside on a crisp winter’s day and the warm evocative fragrance of Christmas welcomes you. Subtly scented candles and diffusers will invite and relax guests and create your unique living environment.

Rachel Barnwell home stylist at Whalley-based Theofano Interiors advises on how to achieve the best from your home during the festive season

Christmas is one of the busiest and most exciting times of the year and with some simple steps you can make it less stressful and more enjoyable.

Providing a full, turn-key interior design service, Maureen Bentley and her team at Theofano, can help create living spaces that are filled with beautiful festive accessories from glowing scented candles to stunning Christmas wreaths.

FOLIAGE

The fun part! A beautiful wreath on the door to welcome family and friends is essential. Whether decorating the dining table, fireplace or staircase, cuttings of fresh evergreens such as eucalyptus pine, fir, variegated ivy and holly berries from your garden will add drama and natural fragrance to your home.

LIGHTING

Keeping a minimalist approach to Christmas lights with a simple colour palette will create a soft and warming aesthetic. Warm lights with red and yellow hues will create that vision of the crackling fire at Christmas time. Twinkling lights on the tree and stylish lanterns carefully placed around the room will achieve that all encompassing warm and welcoming ambience not to mention with mood-boosting and well-being benefits. For stunning interiors and gorgeous accessories visit Theofano. With their design skills, contacts and ability to source exactly what you need, your home will indeed be beautiful this Christmas! n

Theofano Interior Design 5a Accrington Road, Whalley BB7 9TD 01254 825275 theofanointeriors.com

OPTIMISING SPACE: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE

Integral to making the room in our homes work as hard as possible, is the need to maximise all the space available and making it ultimately functional

Whether you’re working from home, pursuing a hobby, exercising or simply relaxing with a good book, there may not be a suitable space to undertake the activity within your home’s existing layout. However, with a fresh pair of eyes and a little creativity, there could be an area in your home ripe for repurposing – you just haven’t spotted its potential as yet.

So, in this guide we’re pointing out some of the common blind spots we have when assessing our homes, and how, once identified, they can be converted into really useful spaces that will make our homes less cluttered, more organised and ultimately more stress-free.

THE CONSERVATORY

At some point conservatories became unfashionable, and together with their sometimes extremes of temperature, we didn’t hear much about them for years. However, over recent decades, with the advent of effective heating systems and modern building and roofing materials, orangeries, which are more enclosed, are in demand once more.

Conservatories and orangeries come in all shapes and sizes and are the ultimate in flexible spaces, ideal as a storage area, spare bedroom, home study, playroom,

school room, snug, yoga room, or even as a multi-purpose space, allowing a combination of activities. With plenty of natural daylight, and located at one end of the house, hence enjoying a relatively peaceful situation, a conservatory makes for the perfect home-study. A fitted window seat with storage beneath is easy to install too, so you have a dedicated spot for relaxing and enjoying your garden to boot. A bespoke desk and shelves will make the optimum use of space on one side of the room and you can add a stylish sofa bed –ideal for when guests come to stay.

THE GUEST ROOM

Talking of guests, how is your guest bedroom looking? By definition, your guest bedroom will not be in use the whole time, so make the most of it by adding functionality to ensure you and your family benefit from

homesinsideout

the extra space all year round. If the room is located next to your bedroom, and you’ve always dreamed of a walk-in wardrobe or dressing area, then hey presto!

Fitted wardrobes with interior and exterior mirrors, and a bespoke configuration of rails, shelves and racks for all your clothes, will keep them tidy and in perfect condition.

from home, hobbies, crafts, a library or simply as a space to unwind in and read, play music or enjoy the peace and quiet. Another idea is to use the space as a TV room. A bespoke TV unit at one end of the room could take in the whole wall, with shelving and cupboards designed around it.

A second, and popular, multi-purpose idea for a guest bedroom is to turn it into a home-study with a wall bed. For the majority of the time the bed can stay in position against the wall to give extra space. On the occasions the bed is needed, it is quickly and easily moved into position. The latest wall beds are comfortable with a robust folding mechanism. The bedding can remain on the bed when it is not in use, folded smoothly to avoid excess creasing. A fitted furniture design will incorporate the desk, drawers and shelving as well as the bed and bedroom storage provision – a seamless layout, which is highly functional.

IRREGULAR SPACES

This is where a little ‘out of the box’ thinking is beneficial, along with a handy joiner or a fitted furniture designer. So, a narrow alcove will fit a made to measure slimline desk with storage above, a generous landing may suit a stylish shelving unit and a redundant under-the-stairs space could be just right as a cupboard for coats, bags and the vacuum cleaner.

THE LOFT CONVERSION

A loft conversion is the ideal candidate for a fitted furniture design due to its common feature of sloping ceilings. If you’re converting your loft, you’ll want to ensure that the project is worthwhile, adding as much usable space to your property as possible, and particularly maximising those areas where conventional furniture is unlikely to fit. A bespoke wardrobe run will achieve this requirement, especially as the interiors are configured in exactly the way you want them, thus optimising your storage further.

THE BOX ROOM

Traditionally used for storage due to their small size, box rooms and spare rooms are often overlooked and undervalued. Notorious for being the dumping ground for bits and bobs that you can’t find a home for, it’s sometimes hard to see the potential in these spaces.

As with a guest bedroom, a wall bed is a useful piece of furniture which will fully maximise the functionality of the space. If a sleep space is not required or the room is not of the right dimensions, this opens up alternatives such as working

Fitted furniture moulds itself around the contours of the space – it’s ideal for all kinds of quirky architectural features from beams and sloping ceilings to jutting windowsills and housing household fixtures such as boilers.

THE GARAGE

The garage is the king of underused spaces. Your garage is likely to be a reasonable sized space, as well as a conventionally shaped one. Its location and access points will determine its usage to a degree. If your kitchen leads into your garage space, your garage could make an ideal dining area or you could use the space as a utility room, with the option of a handy boot room. If your garage is not directly connected to your main living area but you intend to heat it, the space is ideal as a home-study.

A garage conversion is also perfect accommodation for returning university students who have got used to their own space or it could be a hobby workshop or home gym.

Whatever the shape or size of a room, we apply the same criteria to ensure a room is aesthetically pleasing and functional. n

You can visit our Skipton showroom to view our room-sets including bedroom, lounge, home-study and multi-purpose furniture, request a design visit to your home, or take an online 3D tour of our showroom. If you’d like some initial advice about your furniture plans, you can call us on 01756 700471.

hartleysbedrooms.co.uk

DESIGN DISCUSS DELIVER

From concept to completion the knowledgeable team at Whalley Home Improvements will design, discuss and deliver

It’s been another busy year for Whalley Home Improvements with homeowners continuing to enhance and extend to make the best of their living space.

With a team of more than 20 skilled craftsmen, founders Emma Hodgkinson and Graham Fielden have completed many prestigious projects throughout the Ribble Valley and beyond.

Working alongside leading manufacturers, including Ultraframe’s globally renowned roof system, as well as being a trusted installer for Rockdoor, Whalley Home Improvements offers the best in window and door fitting as well as building construction, with a full project management service.

WE CAN PRODUCE CAD DRAWINGS SO THE CLIENT CAN SEE WHAT THE END RESULT WILL LOOK LIKE

Within the business Emma is the first point of contact for clients. She has many years’ experience in the industry, having worked for world-leading manufacturer Ultraframe in Clitheroe. Emma sees each project through from concept to completion: “I get involved right at the beginning and check that each phase is progressing well, seeing the project through to the very end.” From initial consultation to delivering a warranty pack and a ‘thank-you’ to customers once the project is complete, Emma is at the forefront working alongside sales advisor and experienced designer Martin Bentley. Having worked together at Ultraframe

for seven years, Emma and Martin have a wealth of product knowledge and can advise on everything from construction to design and décor.

“We can produce CAD drawings so the client can see what the end result will look like. We can discuss whether aluminium or PVC would suit their project best or help them choose between bi-fold or French doors in a new orangery or kitchen extension,” explains Emma.

Martin’s role is to processes customer enquiries and meet them to discuss in detail their requirements: “At Whalley Home Improvement we have a lot of freedom and flexibility with our products as we are not tied to any one manufacturer, so we can procure the very best quality.

We are not restricted so this ensures every customer gets exactly what they want at the best possible price.”

From initial contact to final fitting, the experienced, knowledgeable team makes sure all projects are finished to the highest of standards and that customers are fully satisfied.

Being fully CORGI Fenestration registered, Whalley Home Improvement is also Quality Mark Protected, meaning all work carried out has a full insurance backed guarantee ensuring that each and every customer has peace of mind.

Whalley Home Improvements can also now offer finance with Ideal4Finance making all the products or services they offer, more accessible.

The team works on varying projects from fitting windows and doors of all different styles and materials, to orangery construction and extensions. They have also worked on listed buildings, which require bespoke wooden windows and doors.

“We have a really experienced, skilled team here at Whalley Home Improvements and they are extremely familiar with all products,” explains Emma.

polycarbonate roof – the latest Ultraframe roof system provides a perfect solution to this.”

Whalley Home Improvements also recently completely replaced an old conservatory with a stunning glass garden room at a cottage in Bolton-by-Bowland and the team also replaced all the windows and installed new doors to transform a 1940’s semi-detached home in the Ribble Valley.

With many happy customers, Whalley Home Improvements has forged a reputation for attention to detail and keeping clients up to date on the progress of their project.

Emma meticulously keeps ahead of the game, calling in to see clients checking that the work is on time and on budget. As one happy customer recently said: “I was impressed with the reviews on Whalley Home Improvements’ website –and looking back, yes, they really were that good!” n

Over the years, Whalley Home Improvements has worked on a variety of different projects. They have replaced polycarbonate roofing on numerous conservatories that tend to be too cold to use in winter and too warm in summer. Replacing the roof not only gives the conservatory a new look, it can also be used all year round.

Emma adds: “This dilemma is fairly typical. Many homeowners find that the temperature varies too much with the old-style

Whalley Home Improvements Ltd Unit 22, Mitton Road Business Park Mitton Road Whalley BB7 9YE 01254 824179

www.whalleyhomeimprovments.co.uk

Photography: Kirsten Platt

WE HAVE A REALLY EXPERIENCED, SKILLED TEAM HERE AT WHALLEY HOME IMPROVEMENTS AND THEY ARE EXTREMELY FAMILIAR WITH ALL PRODUCTS

Photography: Kirsten Platt

CONTINUALLY EVOLVING

Established 36 years ago, Kitchen Design Centre continues to lead the way in kitchen design and remains the largest independent kitchen company in the North West. Their Blackburn showroom, the original and oldest showroom in the group, has recently seen an exciting renovation with brand new elegant kitchen displays introduced

Blackburn was the first showroom for award-winning kitchen company Kitchen Design Centre. Established in 1993 in the same building that houses the showroom today, the ethos of the company was to provide design-led, cutting-edge kitchens. Fast forward and the company has expanded throughout the North West with four more stunning showrooms.

It’s Blackburn where the heart of the company still lies and the recent renovation has seen new displays and appliances that keep the showroom at the very forefront of the kitchen design industry, ensuring it continues to evolve and adapt.

KDC is always responding to changes to the way we live – and the Blackburn showroom reflects this in the beautiful displays of traditional and contemporary kitchens in six different room settings.

The experienced team at KDC Blackburn are delighted to announce a number of new displays to the showroom, including the innovative new Hacker Concept130 collection.

Newly launched for 2022, Concept130 reinterprets the kitchen as a living space. Individual, tailor-made requirements and special ideas can be implemented with millimetre precision in a way that has never been seen before. The revolutionary product not only looks ergonomically sophisticated but creates significantly more storage space too.

The Concept130 new display at Blackburn sees new black concrete units combined with a new Sparkle White Corian worktop, beautifully finished with accents of walnut. The display has excellent eco-credentials too, being a 100 per cent carbon-neutral manufactured kitchen.

The showroom has always featured the very latest appliances and the new display also features the brand-new Neff Glass Downdraft hood – one of the latest innovations from this world-class manufacturer together with their new Graphite trim appliances.

Add to this the Liebherr tall wine cooler, large fridge and freezer with built-in ice machine and the new Quooker Cube and

Quooker Combi and this state-of-the-art display not only looks incredibly impressive but has all the latest appliances.

Another new Concept130 display sees the colour of the moment, Ocean Blue in all its glory! With stunning grey quartz worktops this display looks sensational. The inside is just as impressive with a ‘hidden’ bespoke breakfast area that lies behind one of the cupboards. Complete with worktop surface, this magic cupboard enables appliances to be hidden away.

Visit the Blackburn showroom and meet the team – Designer Lou and Office Manager Lynne together with Showroom Manager Will Hustler, who has been with KDC for 29 years.

“Initial response to our new displays has been incredible,” says Will. “The collection really complements our other room displays. Many customers refer to the showroom as a ‘tardis’ because we have so many rooms with different displays to see.

“We have contemporary and traditional kitchens to give customers a wide choice and our presentation area is fantastic, offering customers the chance to see and select from an enormous bank of samples.”

The presentation area consists of a bespoke table, demonstrating a service that has proven exceptionally popular with customers. KDC can create the perfect dining table or desk area, to a customer’s exact specifications in terms of size and material and their range of Danetti chairs

are incredibly comfortable and provide a real ‘pop’ of colour.

Will, Lou and Lynn are exceptionally proud of the showroom and rightly so. Customers often cite the showroom as a reason for choosing KDC as they are able to gain inspiration from the many displays on show. The two new ones have already seen customers ordering the exact blueprint of the displays.

Having been in business for 36 years, KDC’s name is synonymous with quality, well-built kitchens and exceptional customer service.

Head over to the Blackburn showroom and see for yourself – customers are welcome to pop in whenever they’re passing. If you want to speak to one of the Blackburn showroom designers book a free kitchen design appointment ahead of your visit. Just call the showroom to arrange. With easy access from Brownhill roundabout and ample free parking on the surrounding side streets, see what’s new at the showroom. n

Kitchen Design Centre Blackburn Brownhill Roundabout Blackburn BB1 9AZ 01254 246046 blackburn@kitchendesigncentre.com kitchendesigncentre.com

manufacturers such as Amtico, Alternative Flooring, Brinton’s and Cormar, speak to the Gainsborough Flooring team who will advise on the most suitable flooring for your space as well as professionally fit your new floor.

With over 50 years’ experience in the industry, Gainsborough Flooring work closely with key manufacturers to deliver contemporary as well as traditional flooring choices.

INSPIRED BY NATURE

Sleek, natural and hard-wearing, this beautiful flooring is ideal for an open plan family kitchen and living area, writes Meena McDonald

Aproject Gainsborough Flooring recently completed for a client in Lytham created a striking open plan kitchen and lounge area using Karndean Opus Terra.

Karndean Opus Terra takes inspiration from nature at its best and has warm, earthy tones which are reminiscent of a travertine pattern. Featuring a contemporary design, it instantly adds a touch of finesse to any space and is a stunning piece of elegance that will make any space instantly beautiful.

The fresh, modern Opus collection combines flexible layout options, stylish design and durability with plank sizes ranging from 36” x 6” and a large-scale option of 48” x 9”. The contemporary look is carried across to its stone range, which has varying shades of creamy whites and darker tones which are available in poured concrete and polished limestone looks.

The whole range is extremely easy to clean and maintain so ideal for busy households and those with pets and children.

Karndean Opus also comes with a 15-year commercial guarantee which rises to lifetime if used in the house-building sector or other residential environments.

For amazing flooring choices like Karndean Opus as well as quality carpets, luxury wood and tile-look flooring and rugs from popular

The team understands the importance of exceptional customer service and goes above and beyond to ensure your experience is a positive and enjoyable one, from the moment you step into the showroom until after your flooring is installed. They’re also on hand for any advice you may require after installation.

Their showroom, based in Preston city centre is filled with some of best products in the flooring industry, so you certainly won’t be stuck for choice. The displays are constantly updated with the latest designs and trends alongside many classic products. Go and take a look and see how Gainsborough Flooring can transform your home. n

Gainsborough Flooring 26 Heatley Street, Preston PR1 2XB 01772 250682 vicky@gainsboroughflooring.co.uk gainsboroughflooring.co.uk

Opening times:

Mon - Fri 8.00am - 5.00pm Sat 9.00am - 4.00pm

A TOUCH OF

Respected kitchen suppliers Howdens is now offering customers more choice than ever in terms of high performance, world-class solid kitchen worktops.

With their Clitheroe showroom full of displays and samples, the latest addition to the Howdens showcase is a selection of 15 Silestone samples.

Silestone combines style with practicality, so whether you’re looking to replace your kitchen or simply update your existing one with new-look work surfaces, Howdens provide a professional, end-to-end service for customers with the manufacture, fabrication, laser templating and installation of these premium, solid surface worktops.

Easy to maintain and with a high level of resistance, Silestone comes in a range of beautiful colours and Howdens offers over-the-counter competitive quotes as well as on-site visits to generate competitive price-matching.

Call into the Howdens showroom to see the latest Silestone collection and see how you can transform your kitchen into a luxurious, inspirational and practical living space that works for you and your family.

TIMELESS STYLE

fund to support businesses in designing innovative, cost-effective ways to retrofit the UK’s old housing stock.

The loss of traditional windows from the UK’s older buildings is one of the biggest threats to maintaining the heritage of our architectural environment. Keeping traditional windows and their glazing make an important contribution to the significance of historic areas. However, with an increasing emphasis being placed on making existing buildings more energy efficient, replacement windows have become a market area that has required in-depth thought and product development in order for consumers to make the right choice when specifying a new window for their home.

Affordable Windows Group is one of the largest window manufacturers in the UK. It has created its own unique Timberlook Heritage Flush Sash window. This product has all the beauty of a traditional timber window with every modern-day benefit you would expect.

Amelia Gaughan, sales administrator, and marketing coordinator at Affordable

Windows Group commented: “The Timberlook Heritage Flush Sash window replicates the traditional design using modern materials, ensuring A-rated energy efficiency.

Amelia added: “The name of the product, Flush Sash, refers to the fact that the frames and the sashes sit flush with each other to mirror traditional, timber style side and top hung windows. Another appealing quality and success of the Flush Sash window is that it is accepted by local authorities for use in conservation areas.

“The flush window design was carefully crafted over a year. We are very proud to have a product that looks beautifully traditional, not to mention energy conscious. The Timberlook wood-effect sash windows are more suited to modern living than timber windows. They have none of the costly maintenance and do not deteriorate like wood.

“This product looks beautiful, and it’s one of the best when it comes to energy performance – something more and more customers are talking to us about due to concerns around energy costs.”

The UK has some of the oldest domestic building stock in Europe, with nearly 38 per cent of homes dating from before 1946 according to research carried out by the BRE. In 2019, alongside a pledge to become net zero by 2050, the UK government announced an innovation

“And not wanting to get too technical, but there are a few intricate details which enhance the heritage feel of the Flush Sash window. It features mortise and tenon joints, an option for a deep Radlington cill, a transom weather bar, an astragal bar and traditional hardware, including optional dummy stays. Elements such as these make them the perfect choice for specifiers looking to renovate a period home without compromising its historical integrity.”

The Timberlook Heritage Sash Flush comes in a range of 10 colours with the ability to

Timber windows are a sophisticated, elegant addition to any property with their function just as important as their style, writes Emma Brereton

THERE ARE A FEW INTRICATE DETAILS WHICH ENHANCE THE HERITAGE FEEL OF THE FLUSH SASH WINDOW

pair any of these colours externally with white wood grain internally. Remarkably, the range also includes an Anthracite grey non-wood grain option allowing customers to best match with new or existing products.

Amelia adds: “The smooth Anthracite grey option allows you to tie in the traditional style flush window with our more modern aluminium products such as bi-folding and sliding patio doors as well as heritage crittal doors, giving you the best of both worlds.”

Affordable Windows Group is a family firm and has been manufacturing for almost 30 years. In that time, the business has grown from a company with 20 employees to over 350. Although it’s now a national company, they offer a local service via its trade counters,

21st Century Windows Ltd, located in Poulton-Le-Fylde, Marton, Leyland, Stafford and Altrincham. The Lancashire-based business has been named in the top 10 ‘Lancashire’s Hot 100’ for the last five years.

Amelia concludes: “We may be a national company, but the family feel still resides. We are a close-knit team, and we are proud to develop and manufacture our own products.” n

Affordable Windows

Cornford House, 20 Cornford Road Blackpool FY4 4QQ 01253 891010 sales@awcg.co.uk a-w-s.co.uk

THIS PRODUCT LOOKS BEAUTIFUL, AND IT’S ONE OF THE BEST WHEN IT COMES TO ENERGY PERFORMANCE

cupboard is reinvented into a practical and contemporary alternative to open shelving, giving pieces the gravitas of a museum display.

BARCHITECHTURE

Hitting new, luxurious, heights personalised pet spaces and rooms in the home are a major trend. They feature lower sinks for pet baths, hand-crafted beds and pet cabinetry dedicated to pet food and treats. Being ‘in the doghouse’ has never been so good.

THE BUTLER’S KITCHEN IS MAKING A RESURGENCE. THIS CLEVER IDEA KEEPS THE MAIN KITCHEN CLUTTER FREE

STORE AND ORDER

The butler’s kitchen is making a resurgence. This clever idea keeps the main kitchen clutter free. From cleaning cabinets to climate-controlled cooling worktops, specially engineered drawers and interior fitments

REINVENTED HERITAGE

Downton Abbey meets 2023 in a major trend – the gentrification of the home with rejuvenated spaces more at home in a country manor – think pantry, larder, boot room, scullery and butler’s kitchen

While open plan layouts have been all the rage for over a decade, they have led to many homes feeling like one big room. With people continuing to spend more time at home, we are seeing a multifunctional and dedicated space approach. Inspired by the grandeur of Downton Abbey-style mansions, the return of rooms with purpose are trending across the luxury market.

BYGONE ERA

The notion of ‘estate’ style living holds much appeal, with money lavished on even the most utilitarian and previously forgotten corners of the home, bringing the same level of grace and elegance as you might see in more visible areas of the home. Uber-luxe laundry rooms with chandeliers, sommelier-inspired wine rooms, magnificently crafted cabinetry for a scullery and pantry.

The butler may no longer be a regular sight, but the butler’s kitchen is making a resurgence. It’s a reimagining of a bygone era when the best living spaces were kept pristine using additional rooms to take the strain and the clutter away.

For the ultimate in storage, more and more homes are opting for dedicated pantries or sculleries. These spaces do not come with a ‘maid of all works’ but do work hard keeping cleaning, cooking and dried stored goods behind closed doors.

For those with less space, the house hideaway continues to be hugely popular and provides a beautiful piece of furniture that incorporates clever storage solutions tucked behind break-fronted doors, drawers and shelves.

For a while now, even minimalism has embraced the idea of putting your most treasured pieces out on show, filling your home with personality. So, the glass fronted

suited to specific products such as wine, cheese, cutlery and crockery – this trend takes decluttering and orderliness to the next level.

Photography: Paul Craig

Photography: Nick Yarsley

44 homesinsideout

Japanese style decluttering and organising has resulted in a rise in demand for cabinetry dedicated to categories, as people look to simplify their belongings and look after them longer-term.

Drawers and fitments have purpose built into the initial design that translates into a more orderly and organised home and transforming everyday life by combining beauty with practicality.

UPSTAIRS DOWNSTAIRS

The utility room is getting a major luxury makeover with pendant lighting and architectural features such as panelling, architrave and skirting usually confined to public spaces such as halls and living rooms.

The once humble room is on the move –from downstairs to upstairs negating the need to carry washing up and down when it can all be done closer to the bedrooms and dressing room where the laundry lives.

THE BEST FURNITURE DESIGN ADDS A DEGREE OF ESCAPISM BY INCORPORATING GRAND AND PRACTICAL IDEAS FROM THE PAST

MULTIFUNCTIONAL DESIGN

The best furniture design adds a degree of escapism by incorporating grand and practical ideas, often from the past, into

smaller spaces and making rooms multiple purpose and functional. For example, a well-placed boot room by a door helps keep the main kitchen clean and tidy with open or closed shelving, welly and boot storage and pegs.

Full height shelving and a gliding ladder converts a forgotten corner into your own library. The downstairs toilet is elevated to the status of cloakroom by creating a coat cupboard, storage and large, handcrafted mirror.

REMODELLED MASTER

As one of the most personal spaces in a home, the bedroom should strike a balance between tranquil and chic. It’s where almost a third of time is spent. As a result, the bedroom is becoming the master wing, with more square footage devoted to the most intimate space in the home. Incorporating the bedroom, ensuite, dressing room, fireplace and seating, harking back to a golden age.

This uber luxury, even in functional spaces, is rooted in craftsmanship, with quality pieces that stand the test of time, are highly attractive, practical, full of character and imbued with the Downtonnostalgia factor. n

secret-drawer.co.uk

Photography: Nick Yarsley

Photography: Paul Craig

AT HEART OF YOUR HOME KITCHENS THE 1909 COLLECTION IS AN OUTSTANDING EXAMPLE OF BEAUTIFUL CRAFTSMANSHIP.

Featuring two core designs, the contemporary slab and the classic Shaker, the painted timber 1909 collection is available in a palette of stunning colourways. As the 1909 cabinetry can be customised to suit your style, this timeless British-made collection allows for a bespoke look … at an affordable price.

Call in to Heart Of Your Home’s stunning showroom, meet owner and designer Katie Green, to discover how the 1909 collection can transform your kitchen and enhance your lifestyle.

“Katie is a great problem solver when it comes to working around unusual, tricky spaces and we are absolutely thrilled with our new 1909 kitchen!”

Creativity knows no bounds…

Artist Nick Dittrich creates original artworks using a variety of mediums (acrylic and oil paint, charcoal, graphite, pastels and chalks) or anything else that comes to hand – object trouvé, bottle tops, purchase receipts or micro shredded banknotes.

He considers the canvas to be a part of the artwork and not just the substrate, so often manipulates the canvas by stitching it together, cutting or ripping it, sanding the surface, spot varnishing elements, also embedding or inserting objects through the surface – to bring another dimension to his artworks.

01279 861863 / 07909 850462 email: endartistuk @ gmail.com

‘Wait,

Whether you enjoy cosy evenings on the sofa in front of a crackling fire or entertaining friends around the dining table, Shackletons, an award-winning, home and garden retail experience, has selected exquisite products for the cooler season.

Founded in the Ribble Valley in 2000 by brothers Paul and David Shackleton, the family-owned business has a strong reputation for providing the best home and garden ware, supporting British manufacturers where possible, while doing all it can to become an environmentally sustainable company.

David Shackleton, owner and director explains: “Since the conception of the business we knew we wanted to create a place which sparked imagination and encouraged customers to reimagine their homes inside and out to create the lifestyle they deserve.”

Shackletons is proud to be a major stockist of leading British furniture brands including Tetrad, Spink & Edgar, Ashwood, Simplicity and Smeaton Brothers. As well as the ability to bespoke upholstery, there are also a number of ranges available from existing stock. The centre provides a ‘white glove service’ for furniture items which includes delivery, assembly and removal of all packaging.

“Customers don’t need to wait for the manufacturers’ normal lead times with what we have in stock,” says David. “So, if you’re looking to give your home a fresh look

INSPIRATIONAL INTERIORS & FESTIVITIES

With summer becoming a distant memory it’s a great time to focus our attention on the indoors, writes Emma Brereton

before Christmas there is plenty to choose from without having to wait.

“We are really proud of our ‘white glove service’ too. We don’t take for granted that our business is in one of the most beautiful parts of the country and we want to do all we can to protect that beauty. Once we have delivered an item, we take away all the packaging, sort it and recycle it locally.”

IF YOU’RE LOOKING TO GIVE YOUR HOME A FRESH LOOK BEFORE CHRISTMAS THERE IS PLENTY TO CHOOSE FROM WITHOUT HAVING TO WAIT

Shackletons ‘Indoor Living’ showroom is an impressive space that showcases superb home accessories including lamps, rugs, throws and cushions with expert advice on hand to demonstrate how to add layers

and texture to your home to create the perfect ambience.

David adds: “All of our products have been hand-picked for our customers by our buying team to complement the furniture we offer. We even stock products that have been made from recyclable waste including mattresses made from plastic bottles found in the ocean. Protecting the environment is really at the forefront of our business development.”

Following the restrictions of the last couple of years, Shackletons is very much looking forward to welcoming customers from near and far this Christmas. And with the season fast approaching, the merchandising team are hard at work to make it as magical as ever.

“You can expect fresh and faux trees, garlands and wreaths not forgetting the tree trim for our discerning customers, which focuses again on caring for the environment with natural and recycled materials this year. The gift shop is a great place to fulfil your Christmas list too, with present ideas for every member of your family, including the dog. And, you may even catch a glimpse of the big man himself!” n

Shackletons Garden Centre Clitheroe Road, Chatburn, Clitheroe BB7 4JY 01200 441230 shackletonsonline.co.uk

In addition to the most impressive range of mowers you’ll find anywhere in the North West, there’s a huge range of hand-held machines including strimmers, chainsaws, pressure washers and leaf

blowers from all the leading brands including Stihl, Echo and Mitox. With the friendly, knowledgeable advice you’ll receive, you can be sure to get the right equipment for the job.

AUTUMN IN THE GARDEN

Your leaf blower may be an essential piece of equipment at this time of year but it’s time to get all your other gardening machinery serviced and ready for the spring!

Most of the hard work in the garden has been done. You may have one last mow to do before the cold weather sets in, spring bulbs have been planted while the soil is still warm and you may still have time to collect ripe seeds from your favourite flowers to plant next spring.

As autumn arrives, looking after your garden becomes a little less arduous but, whatever you’re doing, it’s always made much easier if you have the right equipment for the job.

As the really busy gardening season draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to have your garden machinery serviced to ensure it’s in tip-top shape, ready for the arrival of spring next year when the growing season begins once again and lawns need mowing, topiary needs shaping and hedges need cutting.

The Webster family at Mowerpower have been running their successful business for four generations and have built up 70 years’ experience and extensive product knowledge.

LOOKING AFTER YOUR GARDEN BECOMES A LITTLE LESS ARDUOUS BUT, WHATEVER YOU’RE DOING, IT’S ALWAYS MADE MUCH EASIER IF YOU HAVE THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT FOR THE JOB

That’s why Mowerpower is the place to go for any piece of gardening equipment, as well as for expert repairs and servicing to keep machines running smoothly all year round.

The Websters employ a team of full-time mechanics, across their two state-of-the-art workshops, and will have your mowers and hand-held garden machinery back to their best within days, wherever possible.

If you need replacement gardening equipment, now is a great time to visit Mowerpower, as there will be some fantastic end of season discounts on first class machinery.

David Webster heads up the Mowerpower team with his parents Richard and Lynn and is keen to point out that customers looking for a mower – ride-on, push or robotic –can see and handle the equipment in the showroom to get a feel for it.

Similarly, customers looking for handheld machines will be advised on what will suit them and their garden best. As well as having approved retailer status with all the top manufacturers, the secret to the success of this traditional family business is their customer service and product knowledge, which enables every customer to make an informed choice and buy the machine that’s right for them and the job they’re doing. n

END OF SEASON DISCOUNTS!

If you need replacement gardening equipment, now is a great time to visit Mowerpower, as there will be some fantastic end of season discounts on first class machinery!

Mowerpower

THE  FIRE  SPECIALISTS

Burning Desire are the ultimate fire specialists and opening soon is a showroom dedicated to a new, world-beating brand

Walt Disney once said: “Whatever you do, do it well. Do it so well that when people see you do it, they will want to come back and see you do it again, and they will want to bring others and show them how well you do what you do.”

Well, thanks Walt, that pretty much sums up Burning Desire’s approach to fires and fireplaces for over 26 years. Owners, the Armstrong family, believe people benefit from buying from and receiving advice from experts. We specialise in fires – we are not a jack of all trades and master of none – fires are what we do.

Gas fires, electric fires, woodburning stoves, surrounds and outdoor fires are all on display in our showrooms in Ramsbottom. Why not visit and see for yourself why we are the fire specialists.

MEDIA WALLS

Everyone wants one! Space saving, ultra-modern, this latest development in lifestyle furnishing combines your TV and music centre with the best international electric fire brands to bring you a muchenvied centrepiece to your living space. Why not include special wall finishes such as Venetian plastering or Microcement to enhance your media wall – come in and chat with our fire experts so we can design something bespoke and unique for you.

NEW SHOWROOM –COMING SOON!

We are delighted to announce that we, as an approved stockist, shall shortly be opening a showroom entirely devoted to Evonic electric fires and media walls.

Evonic fires is an award-winning brand of CK Fires Ltd, situated just outside Stratford-upon-Avon, manufacturing a range of British-built electric fires, which are considered among the most technically advanced in the world. With a huge range of models to choose from and fully integrated APP controls, Evonic has a heating solution to suit any interior. n

Burning Desire Fireplace Centre Unit 9, Cuba Industrial Estate, Bolton Road North Subbins near Ramsbottom BL0 0NE 01706 281700 info@burningdesireuk.com burningdesireuk.com

Call: 01706 281 700

Email: info@burningdesireuk.com

Web: www.burningdesireuk.com

SOARING ENERGY PRICES

With Gas and Electric

prices going through the roof - why don’t you go through your roof (or wall) with one of these?

Real wood burning stoves can save you over £500 on your heating bills - (source: SIA)

We have more real woodburning stoves on live demonstration in our showrooms than anywhere else in the Northwest.

Friendly and experienced advice on all aspects of: Fireplaces ~ Gas & Electric fires ~ Stoves ~ Installation

THE FUTURE OF HOME WORKING FURNITURE

Recognising that home working is here to stay, newly launched brand Slouch meets the demand for quality and design-driven home furniture, writes Gail Bailey

For over 45 years The Senator Group, the UK’s largest office furniture manufacturer, have provided office products to big brand names and created some of the most desirable and comfortable workplace settings in the world. With home working now the norm for many, the company have used their expertise in design and

manufacturing, along with years of industry experience to create Slouch.

Slouch presents a unique ‘creator to customer’ approach. This reflects their short supply chain and well-priced, flat-pack

IT IS A PRIVILEGE TO BE ABLE TO BRING THIS LEVEL OF DESIGN NOT JUST TO TRADE CUSTOMERS, BUT NOW INTO THE HOME OFFICE TOO

solutions. With years’ of experience behind them, the new brand is leading consumer expectations and setting high standards for other home working brands in the UK. Globally becoming recognised for their

innovative approach to home working, Slouch Director Matt Ousby reflects on how the brand began here in the Ribble Valley during the global pandemic.

“During the pandemic workers experienced reduced commutes and a greater work-life balance. This has led to many seeking permanent flexibility. There’s no denying that the office is still an essential place

for collaboration and conversation, but popularity for dynamic working continues to grow. We have found that those working from home more permanently since the pandemic are now very aware of the need for quality, comfortable and customisable office furniture that mirrors the workplace they know.”

Slouch has introduced a custom-designed,

ergonomic, home office chair boasting features such as back lumber adjustment, soft-touch multi-movement arms, seat height and depth adjustment. One of the most notable features is the auto-adjusting recline with synchronised tilt tension, perfectly balancing a user’s weight and movements whilst promoting good posture. Engineered to deliver maximum support, it is comparable to many industry-leading, high-performing office chairs.

Quality design is in the DNA of The Senator Group. Styles and manufacturing techniques may change, but the self-belief of the company remains the same. They work with the world’s top designers, identify trends and set them – and importantly have complete control at every stage: “By investing heavily in design and development we know we are at the forefront of furniture design and manufacturing,” Matt adds.

“It is a privilege to be able to bring this level of design, not just to trade customers, but now into the home office too.

“Our company ethos is straightforward. Every piece of furniture created is designed to make the consumer’s life easier. Slouch presents home working but done right –by this we mean using the latest technology of the highest quality. Forging the future of home working, we have aligned innovative tech with the modern lifestyle, creating something that doesn’t just look great but feels great too. The best of British design, sustainably made in Lancashire.” n

For further information and purchases visit: info@slouchonline.com slouchonline.com

FORGING THE FUTURE OF HOME WORKING, WE HAVE ALIGNED INNOVATIVE TECH WITH THE MODERN LIFESTYLE, CREATING SOMETHING THAT DOESN’T JUST LOOK GREAT BUT FEELS GREAT TOO. THE BEST OF BRITISH DESIGN, SUSTAINABLY MADE IN LANCASHIRE

LIGHT UP YOUR LIFE…

Working with global lighting powerhouses along with some of the UK’s leading designers and manufacturers, James Kok recently helped transform a newly-built South Lakes property with stunning contemporary lighting

The expert team at James Kok Lighting have worked on many prestigious projects throughout the north of England.

One such project was a five-bedroom new-build house in the South Lakes, as James Kok explains: “We were contacted by the client at the outset – they were knocking down an old cottage and building a contemporary home on the site, which was in a beautiful location next to a canal.”

James was delighted that the client had made contact at the initial stages of the new-build, enabling him to work alongside the architect and homeowner from the outset: “It meant that we had input with regards to the lighting from the beginning and as we were commissioned to supply the interior and exterior lights, it was important that we all worked closely together.”

Inside the house, a two-floor glass walkover featured LED strips and in the contemporary kitchen, designed by Stuart Frazer, bespoke fittings included three German pendant lights over the breakfast bar and German-manufactured track lighting creating a floating detail across the ceiling.

select suitable lighting for a pitched roof.”

The dining room features an Italian pendant light while a games room has colour-changing contemporary LEDs.

The master bedroom features a three-tier modern pendant from a Spanish supplier, while each of the four bathrooms have fitted contemporary recess spotlights.

Having completed the digital visuals for the exterior lighting, James was delighted to present them to the client, as he explains: “Outside the property is a lovely water feature with a blade pond illuminated with colour-changing LED spots, there is also a number of uplighters picking out copper tree features and stone walls and there is a stunning feature wall where the hot tub is located.

“While the house was very contemporary it also featured a lot of natural oak which gave it warmth,” recalls James, who advised on feature lighting above a central oak staircase.

“We liaised closely with the architect and a metal fabricator with regard to the feature stairwell pendant as we needed to

“We produced a total lighting layout and visuals that enabled the client to see how the ambience in the gardens and around the hot tub could be totally transformed with well-designed lighting.” n

OUTSIDE THE PROPERTY IS A LOVELY WATER FEATURE WITH A BLADE POND LIGHT ALONG WITH COLOURCHANGING LED SPOTS

WARMING UP

Opposite page: Barbour waterproof Shoveler quilt navy £209

Varey’s Town and Country 2 Market Place Clitheroe BB7 2DB 01200 423267 vareys.co.uk

Above: UBR Regulator coat £650

Ultra-warm, with expedition quality thermal insulation to keep you perfectly warm with no bulk and minimal weight. Hope Menswear 42 King Street Clitheroe BB7 2EU 01200 423723 hopestores.co.uk

Barbour Stavia wax jacket olive classic £299

Varey’s Town and Country 2 Market Place Clitheroe BB7 2DB 01200 423267 vareys.co.uk

Mackage Edward-NFR hooded jacket £1195

Water repellent, wind-proof, breathable and air permeable with double-layer fabric membrane. Scruples 1984 85-87 Gisburn Road Barrowford BB9 6DX 01282 695770

Opposite page: Riani black frill wool coat £635 michelle b 2/3 King Edward Terrace Gisburn Road Barrowford BB9 8NJ 01282 605060 michellebshop.co.uk

Luisa Cerano coat £649

Shaw’s

2b Lynton Road Hillside Southport PR8 3AN 01704 563612 shawsfashion.co.uk

Sand Copenhagen houndstooth wool coat £550 Hope Womenswear

42 King Street Clitheroe BB7 2EU 01200 426293 hopestores.co.uk

Recently, designer handbags were named by Knight Frank as the number one collectible investment. But the handbags they tracked came from a small pool of top brands, in particular Hermes, Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Gucci. And, of course, the famous Hermes Birkin outstripped all rivals by far. Ribble Valley-based preloved luxury expert, The Atelier World, explains how to maximise your investment.

Owner and founder Michelle Payne, explains: “Luxury handbags are now more than a fashion accessory, with the industry seeing huge growth – and price increases – over the past year. We work with collectors worldwide who are building their portfolios and trading at the highest level.”

So how can you maximise your investment? Here are Atelier’s top tips:

KEEP IT EXCLUSIVE

The reason why the Hermes Birkin and Kelly are so highly desired, and therefore incredible investments, is because you can’t just walk into a store and purchase one. The same is applicable with certain Chanel bags, namely the Classic Flaps. Those 80s and 90s vintage bags by the late Karl Lagerfeld, as featured below, are especially coveted.

THE BUSINESS OF HANDBAGS

Luxury goods, especially designer handbags, are becoming more than a fashion accessory – they are a hotly sought-after investment

CONDITION IS KEY

To get the best price, which is well above average, a bag must be in absolute mint condition, preferably with tags on. Keep the receipts and keep the packaging – it’ll all give you more bang for your buck when you come to sell! Purchasers are very discerning and an item’s provenance will add so much value.

CONSIDER COLLABORATIONS

Over the past year, we have seen exciting collaborations between super-brands. Louis Vuitton is the master of collaboration, with collections selling out immediately and commanding high values on the resale market. A 2021 partnership between Balenciaga and Gucci is of note with bags trading at over a 100 per cent increase on the market.

THE ATELIER WORLD – YOUR INVESTMENT PARTNER

The Atelier World works with clients to ensure that they get the best return possible when investing in a luxury bag. We have established relationships around the globe enabling us to source items for clients that will give them a fantastic return. n

To buy or sell, contact Michelle at The Atelier World and make an appointment to see the fabulous collections at Atelier’s Ribble Valley studio

Whatsapp: 07795 465 365 theatelier.world

MEET: THE 90s SUPERMODEL

Vintage Chanel 1993 Timeless / Classique in black with 24k gold hardware

Vintage Chanel bags from the 80s and 90s are coveted worldwide, commanding high prices! Atelier World’s 90s supermodel is at such a competitive price and a fantastic investment at £4950. It is accompanied by the original card, dustbag and box.

DISCOVER FOOTWEAR

YOUR FEET WILL LOVE

At fitright footwear we recognise that everyone’s feet are different and so we offer an adult only, unique and bespoke shoe-fitting service, by appointment. Photography: Kirsten Platt

We appreciate that fitting, finding and choosing shoes is often stressful and is certainly something that cannot be rushed for people who have problems with their feet or struggle to find well-fitting shoes. Fitright footwear’s appointment-only system is the perfect way to ensure our customers are relaxed and given time to select their footwear in an atmosphere that is comfortable and undisturbed.

Our shoes and our complimentary, professional, friendly, one-to-one measuring and fitting service is so good people return time and again to purchase their footwear.

Customers frequently comment how the introduction of our appointment system has enhanced the fabulous, personal service we provide. There is no substitute for having your feet measured and fitted. We pride ourselves on our honesty and if the shoe doesn’t fit, we will tell you!

The number of people who are wearing the wrong size shoes is astounding. We cannot believe the number of unworn shoes gathering dust in the back of wardrobes. Customers repeatedly tell us how many times they have made mistakes in the past because they continually purchase the wrong shoes for their feet. Here at fitright footwear

we want to make those mistakes a thing of the past.

If you have an existing foot problem, wearing correctly fitted shoes will help to relieve the pain you are already experiencing and help prevent further problems from developing. It will also help to keep recurring issues like corns and hard skin from returning.

depths and sizes including up to size 10 for women in some brands. Our brands are carefully chosen not only for the fantastic range of styles they can offer our customers, but also because different brands benefit different kinds of feet. Our friendly advice, measuring and fitting service and in-depth product knowledge means we can help our customers select the correct footwear for their feet.

Wearing the right footwear makes a huge difference to how we feel. There is nothing better than wearing a pair of shoes that are so comfortable that you can forget they are on your feet and give you confidence to get out and about.

Visit fitright footwear and make a difference to how you and your feet feel –they will thank you for it. n

IF YOU HAVE AN EXISTING FOOT PROBLEM, WEARING CORRECTLY FITTED SHOES WILL HELP TO RELIEVE THE PAIN YOU ARE ALREADY EXPERIENCING

Fitright footwear have an amazing choice of shoes, trainers and boots for both men and women, in an array of styles, widths,

These stylish new-season knits will keep you warm throughout the coming months

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

of Tom, who says: “This season’s shoes from Jeffery West are like works of art! There are gun prints embossed on the leather of the toe post – they come in black and silver and mahogany and tan – they are amazing.”

Coming soon is the opening of the second phase of Scruples 1984 – over the past few

THIS SEASON’S SHOES FROM JEFFERY WEST ARE LIKE WORKS OF ART!

NEW SEASON COLLECTIONS

From hard-working performance winter jackets to beachwear for Christmas in the Caribbean, Scruples 1984 now has its entire A/W collection in store. Photography: Kirsten Platt

With world-renowned brands, Scruples 1984 is an industry leader in terms of bespoke tailoring and designer-led labels.

Store manager, Tom Orrell, son-in-law of Scruples founder Stephen Collins, explains: “We have just about got everything in stock now. From brands such as Paul and Shark, Belstaff, Parajumper and ETON to new season fabrics for made-to-measure tailoring, we have something for every

occasion including beachwear from global brand Vilebrequin.”

At this time of year Mackage is one of Scruples’ most popular labels. The high performance French-Canadian brand produces unrivalled men’s and ladies’ outerwear that can deal with freezing temperatures to minus 25 degrees so you can be sure to keep toasty and warm throughout the season whether you’re on a snowy winter walk or skiing in the Alps.

There are many sleek designs in the latest Mackage line-up including sheen and matt puffa styles, as Tom explains: “This is the biggest Mackage collection we have had to date and it’s wonderful!”

On the denim front, Scruples has global brand Jacob Cohen whilst the shirts from ETON, for which Scruples has become renowned, there will be a three-part release over the season of exclusive style-led designs in hand-picked fabrics. If you’re looking for something really extravagant there are also shirts by Claudio Lugli: “These designs are real attention grabbers!” says Tom.

Taking centre stage on the footwear front is Scruples’ own bespoke design-your-own service whereby you can select your fabric, leather and style to create something truly unique. Also in stock is a new collection by shoe designer Jeffery West, a firm favourite

months half of the store has been undergoing a renovation similar to that of the existing store. With smart, exclusive aesthetics, once opened the newly-refurbished half will allow for Scruples to showcase, bespoke tailoring, formalwear, casualwear and branded clothing in dedicated departments. n

To keep up to date with the launch and any other upcoming events go to Scruples’ social media platforms

WORLD LEADING DESIGN

Having recently attended the Milan Eyewear Show, Robert Sands talks about some of the new world-leading designs now available at The Spectacle Factory. Photography: Robin Lyndon

The personal service and expert knowledge each customer enjoys at The Spectacle Factory has enabled the unique opticians to go from strength to strength over the past year.

Robert Sands, who manages The Spectacle Factory explains: “People have changed their perspective on glasses. They no longer see them as a necessity but more as an accessory – both technology and a fashion statement combined into one. They’re therefore caring more about their choices and considering multiple pairs for different

looks. Gone are the days when people saw glasses as a negative feature, they’re now much more of a way to express yourself.”

The team at The Spectacle Factory help clients to understand their vision and

WE HAVE BUILT QUITE A NICHE FOR OURSELVES WITH OUR PERSONALISED APPROACH AND OUR EXCITING RANGE OF EXCLUSIVE BRANDS

eye health by utilising the most advanced technology and taking an educational approach – their outstanding level of customer care has led to the organic growth of the business.

The quality and individuality of the glasses has meant the eyewear worn by many customers is being noticed and complimented by family, friends and colleagues. Therefore, the referrals aren’t just based on the customer’s delight at their own experience, but also comes from others wanting to know where they have purchased their fabulous glasses from.

Their eyewear collections really are unique and provide a breadth of choice from fashion collections such as Gucci, Boss and Cartier to strikingly creative frames sourced from independent designers,

all made to the highest standards.

Robert attended the Milan Eyewear Show MIDO earlier this year, where leading frame designers from all over the world exhibit their latest creations.

The products presented there wouldn’t normally be available in the UK for at least a year, but as Robert pre-ordered a selection of extraordinary eyewear, customers of The Spectacle Factory already have the opportunity to view and purchase these.

One such brand Robert came across at MIDO was Portrait. Their brand name and influence comes from the artworld and their

technical too, with the graphite fronts contrasting well against the colourful elastomer sides. Yellow, orange and red colourways look superb and suitably sporty, whilst black and blue colourways provide more muted options.

frames are truly inspirational, expressive, individual and colourful. Portrait Eyewear was borne from the genuine desire of two half-Venezuelan/Spanish siblings to preserve the traditional quality of Italian handcrafting.

Opticals and sunglasses are the result of deep, design research and experimentation, strongly influenced by art-history movements and dedicated to its most iconic figures. Each product is entirely handmade in Italy by genuine artisans, with production processes which adhere to environmentally-friendly and sustainable practices.

Gast, with its collection of beautiful, bold styles and colours at very affordable prices, is another brand which Robert discovered at the show. This unconventional urban label is a Milan-based independent eyewear brand created with the mission to provide high quality handmade eyewear with exceptional pricing, achieved by manufacturing their products to a very high standard in the Far East.

Keen to make their products accessible to all, Gast price their eyewear products very competitively and as a result, the glasses are selling at a phenomenal rate at The Spectacle Factory.

Those that enjoy technical details and a more minimalistic, sporty aesthetic will truly love another new collection which The Spectacle Factory now stock –McLaren Eyewear.

McLaren glasses are the first in the world to utilise 3D printed titanium and these pieces are the flagship McLaren frames. The thicker-rimmed pieces are stylish and

Their sunglasses offer lenses tailored to several different activities, from driving to golf to sailing, incorporating specialised tints, polarised filters and mirror coatings to achieve excellent vision for what you need to focus on.

THOSE THAT ENJOY TECHNICAL DETAILS AND A MORE MINIMALISTIC, SPORTY AESTHETIC WILL TRULY LOVE ANOTHER NEW COLLECTION –MCLAREN EYEWEAR

Customers of The Spectacle Factory aren’t just those who visit their premises in Lancashire but also come via the informative YouTube tutorials which have made the brand worldwide with customers from across the globe seeking their advice and purchasing their products.

‘eyewear for the individual’ - providing access to eyewear with real personality, along with unrivalled customer care for each individual regardless of their requirements and budget. Whether customers are looking for luxury brands like McLaren or much more affordable brands such as Gast, they can cater for them all.

To enhance the customer experience even further, The Spectacle Factory have installed an EV charger in their car park which customers can plug into free of charge whilst they’re having eye tests, discussing their eye health and selecting new glasses.

This fits in with the company’s sustainability commitment to become one of the most eco-friendly opticians in the world. They already have underfloor heating, solar panels, low energy lighting and are dedicated to sourcing eco-friendly eyewear.

You can find out more by scanning the QR code below or come and visit The Spectacle Factory and see for yourself. n

Robert continues: “Our customers want to know what is right for them personally. That is exactly what we are about. We provide advice and eyewear that is specific to the individual and make glasses that are suited to them personally. We have built quite a niche for ourselves with our personalised approach and our exciting range of exclusive brands.”

The Spectacle Factory’s ethos is

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

DR BARBARA STURM LIP BALM £40

Formulated to soothe and hydrate dry lips. Its lightweight, silky texture gives your lips a soft glow and finish while providing essential hydration. en.drsturm.com

TATA HARPER WATER LOCK MOISTURISER £61

A lightweight, silicone-free formulation that works to prime and smooth the appearance of the skin. Engineered with macro hyaluronic acid waterlocking technology to deliver sustained hydration spacenk.com

AUGUSTINUS BADER ULTIMATE SOOTHING CREAM £215

An ultra-rich skin-saviour to instantly replenish, rehydrate and soothe dry, irritated or sensitive skin. augustinusbader.com

SOOTHE & SMOOTH

These luxurious products will help counteract skin dehydration now that autumn has arrived

DRUNK ELEPHANT F-BALM™

ELECTROLYTE WATERFACIAL

HYDRATING MASK £44

Plump, restore and strengthen skin with this cooling overnight mask that helps to hydrate parched complexions by improving moisture levels. spacenk.com

KIEHL’S CREAMY EYE TREATMENT WITH AVOCADO £27

The unique, concentrated texture, enriched with avocado oil, gently moisturises, leaving the delicate eye area feeling nourished. kiehls.co.uk

TATCHA THE SILK CREAM £115

A rich yet weightless gel cream of hydrating silk and Hadasei-3™, a trio of Japanese superfoods, for softer, smoother, visibly firmer skin. tatcha.co.uk

ALGENIST TRIPLE ALGAE EYE RENEWAL BALM

WITH MULTI-PEPTIDE COMPLEX £48

Combat under-eye bags, dark circles, wrinkles and puffiness with this targeted skincare treatment formulated with advanced algae technology. spacenk.com

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

MAY LINDSTROM SKIN

THE BLUE COCOON $180

This luxurious balm coddles dry, delicate skin. Intensely moisturising, it melts into skin, calms, nourishes and softens with a combination of blue tansy, botanicals and oils. maylindstrom.com

LA MER CONCENTRATED NIGHT BALM £490

This silken, ampoule-strength treatment, penetrates deeply while you sleep, plumping skin with renewing hydration, helping support skin’s natural collagen and elastin. cremedelamer.co.uk

RED FACE

typically begins as redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead. A blood vessel disorder of the face, it affects women and men usually after they turn 30. Over time, redness often becomes ruddier and more persistent, and blood vessels may appear. Left untreated, pustules often develop, and in severe cases skin may swell and thicken.

Rosacea

“A lot of people are unaware they have Rosacea”, says Dr Montero. “They initially wonder why their skin is so red, flushed and suddenly prone to breakouts.

“These persistent symptoms, coupled with not knowing what’s causing them, can be very distressing. When I explain they have Rosacea and how it can be managed, this instantly gives them a sense of relief.

“Firstly, I use a skin-imaging system to look 2mm beneath the skin so I can make an accurate Rosacea diagnosis and then advise on the best combination of treatment.

“People travel to my clinic from all over the UK and beyond - they go to great lengths to get relief from their symptoms. Seeing someone’s self-confidence grow so dramatically by the end of treatment is just wonderful. It’s a real privilege to help.”

Dr Montero has been helping people with Rosacea since 2008 at his multi-awardwinning medical skin clinic. Using unique laser protocols and his own three-part treatment combination, he dramatically reduces Rosacea symptoms giving his patients long-lasting relief and increased confidence.

His patients are delighted with the results,

as one commented: “As a long-term sufferer of Rosacea, I have been delighted with the huge improvement.

“There has a been a significant reduction in flushing episodes - virtually to zero. Skin breakouts similarly are rare and by no means as distressing as they were before. Changes to my skin tone and appearance are definitely noticeable and have been commented on by family, friends and work colleagues.

“I had resigned myself to living with the condition before Miguel was recommended to me, and did not expect the vast improvements that he has managed to achieve in relatively few sessions.”

What causes Rosacea? - The exact cause is unknown. Blood vessels change, becoming leaky and over-responsive to stimuli such as sun exposure, heat, stress, anxiety, caffeine and alcohol.

Who is affected? - Rosacea affects about one in 10 people, usually starting between 30-60. Women are more commonly affected, but in men it can be more severe.

Can it be cured? - There is no permanent cure but laser treatments significantly reduce symptoms.

When should I seek treatment? Each sign or symptom may progress from mild to moderate to severe. It is best to get an early diagnosis and treatment with a knowledgeable medical practitioner or dermatologist.

To book your ROSACEA Consultation call Discover Laser on 01282 420886

DISCOVER LASER, CROW WOOD ROYLE LANE, BURNLEY BB12 0RT www.discoverlaser.co.uk

... AS A LONG TERM SUFFERER OF ROSACEA, I HAVE BEEN DELIGHTED WITH THE HUGE IMPROVEMENT ...

~ DISCOVER LASER PATIENT, SWINDON ~

Doctor Miguel Montero is one of the UK’s leading doctors on the subject of vascular treatment. We discover what Rosacea is and why people travel from all over the world to have treatment at his medical skin clinic in Burnley

CALMING THE MIND

The warmth of the HotPod Yoga studio and the physicality of the flows will work your body, while the dim lights, heady aromas, purple hues and immersive soundscapes will calm your busy mind. To understand it, you’ve got to experience it. Try our introductory offer.

HOT NEWS:

• Foundation Flow Yoga is a new class featured every Tuesday 8.30pm & Saturday 11.30am. This class is perfect for students who are newer to the Vinyasa practice or for anyone looking to enjoy the movement of a flow class, but at a slightly different pace. For a FREE Foundation Yoga Class get in touch by email.

• World Mental Health Day ‘Sleep Session’ Charity class –9th October bookings open.

• To find out more visit: hotpodyoga.com n

Huntley’s Whalley Road, Samlesbury PR5 0UN 07359 044387 ribblevalley@hotpodyoga.com

@hotpodyogaribblevalley

If you or someone you know has cancer, you may find it helpful to talk to someone who understands what you’re going through.

If you or someone you know has cancer, you may find it helpful to talk to someone who understands what you’re going through.

A team who can provide personal support and expert information. That’s what we do.

A team who can provide personal support and expert information. That’s what we do.

So if you have any questions about your treatment, concerns about your finances or just want to talk, you don’t need to go through it alone. We’re here for you.

So if you have any questions about your treatment, concerns about your finances or just want to talk, you don’t need to go through it alone. We’re here for you.

Call the Macmillan Support Line free on 0808 808 00 00 (Mon – Fri, 9am – 8pm) or visit macmillan.org.uk

Call the Macmillan Support Line free on 0808 808 00 00 (Mon – Fri, 9am – 8pm) or visit macmillan.org.uk

The timetable at HotPod Yoga Ribble Valley has expanded giving beginners and experienced yoga-lovers more opportunity to join in

GET YOUR YOUTHFUL LOOKS BACK SAFELY

You can achieve your youthful looks back and radiant skin with the latest non-invasive technology, writes Meena McDonald

Emma explains: “My passion and commitment ensure my treatments are safe, non-invasive, achieve longer-lasting results and also work with and improve each client’s own skin to ensure they still look like themselves.”

Emma ensures your skin becomes youthful, safely and effectively, without having to seek invasive and unsafe treatments.

Imagine being able to safely turn the clock back on your skin and create its youthfulness again, especially if it involves non-invasive proven technology that achieves longer lasting results.

That’s exactly what you will get from Emma Pearce at EMA Skin Aesthetics Ltd.

As a highly skilled and experienced aesthetic skin specialist with extensive advanced training in aesthetic skin treatments using the most pioneering machines, her aim is to achieve life changing results with safe, non-invasive, scientifically proven technology.

The focus of every treatment Emma carries out is to ensure clients remain looking like themselves, whilst achieving their sought-after anti-ageing results.

The treatments that Emma delivers are renowned for their long-lasting results and continuously exceed client expectations. The PlasmaPen and Hyapen results normally

WHAT CLIENTS SAY…

“I had wrinkle-smoothing injections and fillers for 13 years. I became fed up and didn’t like the results nor the long-term effects these treatments were having on my skin and my overall look. Then I met a friend who I hadn’t seen in years –she looked incredible and younger than the last time I saw her. I was surprised to find out she hadn’t had any work done such as a facelift.

I of course complimented my friend and cheekily asked for her secret to having such amazing, young-looking skin. She went on to tell me about Emma and the treatments she had. Well let’s just say after having PlasmaPen and other treatments with Emma it’s the best run into a friend I have ever had. Thank you Emma for making me happy with my skin and my looks again.”

Linda S.

last three years, however Emma informs us that many clients who have had the treatment four years ago still haven’t needed a top up. This is mainly due to clients following her personalised advice and education on how to take care of their skin.

Emma has achieved 99.9 per cent satisfaction for her clients with the PlasmaPen, Hyapen and all the extensive non-invasive treatments she offers. They are all unquestionably ideal for natural alternatives and impeccable results, unlike many cheap, quickfix treatments that are promoted and too readily available.

To achieve your youthful looks safely and effectively, please contact Emma. Her non-invasive treatments ensure you remain looking like you, whilst achieving your desired results. n

SPECIAL OFFERS

Back for this issue due to popular demand!

PlasmaPen treatments start from £250 per area. Emma is offering Live readers £175 off the price of each area until 20th November 2022!

Non-invasive, Hyapen starts from £200. Emma is offering Live readers 20% off until 20th November 2022!

EMA Skin Aesthetics Ltd

Upstairs at Toni & Guy 86 Fishergate, Preston PR1 2NJ 01772 821600 07547 802062

info@emaskinaesthetics.co.uk emaskinaesthetics.co.uk

IMAGES

We all know that delays in seeking medical advice can lead to late diagnosis and worse therapy outcomes. With a busy lifestyle and long call queues, it’s sometimes difficult to book to see your local doctor. With this in mind, from 14th October RejuvaMed is offering appointments on Fridays with Dr Mani, a fully qualified GP who has worked in the NHS for over 12 years.

Delivered by consultant vascular surgeons Mr Vittorio Perricone and Mr Rob Salaman, RejuvaMed offers the only dedicated varicose vein treatment centre in Lancashire. With a nationwide reputation for quality care and exceptional results, the centre is now established as the leading provider of varicose vein treatment in the North West at prices way below Lancashire’s private hospitals.

Mr Perricone and Mr Salaman have both worked within the NHS and privately for more than 25 years, and they now consult privately solely at RejuvaMed.

As Dr Grant McKeating, RejuvaMed’s

Medical Director explains, the centre offers a real alternative to the NHS: “Funding for treatment for varicose veins has been rationed by the NHS, meaning patients often have to pay for their procedure. Where NHS treatment is available, waiting lists are incredibly long. We offer appointments within a couple of weeks and safe, relatively painless treatments with excellent results and minimal recovery time.”

As well as offering radiofrequency (RF) ablation treatment for varicose veins, RejuvaMed offers the innovative VenaSealTM procedure, which uses medical adhesive rather than a heat source to seal the diseased vein.

Normally priced at over £3,000 in other clinics and hospitals, RejuvaMed’s price is £2410 for one leg and £2725 for both. n

For more information on pricing, or to book a consultation with our surgeons, email: info@rejuvamed.co.uk or call the clinic on: 01200 538668

BANISH VARICOSE VEINS PRIVATE GP SERVICE

RejuvaMed, Lancashire’s leading health and wellness clinic, has launched a new private GP service for adults from its Clitheroe clinic, offering patients easy, quick access appointments and speedy referrals

“We are excited to unveil this brand-new service to complement our current treatment range,” says RejuvaMed’s Medical Director Grant McKeating. “We offer 30-minute face-to-face consultations for a fee of just £150. Should they be needed, more specialist investigations can be opened up for patients, cutting down that anxiety-inducing waiting time and avoiding further health complications.”

Private GP services have multiple benefits. Opting for a face-to-face consultation, with enough dedicated time to discuss your concerns, can make a huge difference in reassuring you and getting straightforward referrals to specialist consultants.

Dr Mani is also offering Well-Person medicals at RejuvaMed, which include

a careful history, full examination and a range of screening blood tests tailored entirely to the patient, giving peace of mind. For Well-Person medical enquiries and pricing, or for more information on RejuvaMed’s private GP services, please call the clinic on 01200 538668 or email: info@rejuvamed.co.uk. n

Alternatively, private GP appointments with Dr Mani can be booked online at: rejuvamed.co.uk/book-online

RejuvaMed Health & Wellness Holmes Cottage, Woone Lane Clitheroe BB7 1BG 01200 538668 rejuvamed.co.uk

There’s no need to undergo expensive and risky surgery under general anaesthesia if you wish to say goodbye to your varicose veins thanks to RejuvaMed’s vein centre

Photography:

Andrew Clutterbuck

TILL

We have special offers and gifts with purchases, (and someone will win a luxury Christmas hamper. How nice!) alongside the new, gorgeous gifts for the coming season. The fire will be crackling, the candles lit and the wine (complimentary of course)… will be chilled to match the atmosphere. What better way to spend a few hours!

HANDBAGS CHRISTMAS

“Here’s to seasons of richness & warmth; of woodsmoke - & fireside ends to frosty days”

Dr Farzaneh Mani runs private GP clinics at Spire Fylde Coast Hospital as well as her Lancashire GP clinic situated in Garstang. She is also an academic adviser at the University of Manchester Medical School and an examiner of clinical assessments for medical students.

INSTANT ACCESS

A GP service is offering instant appointments with access to specialist services. Photography: Andrew Clutterbuck

The private GP service has expanded considerably over the past year and offers an efficient service with no waiting time for face-to-face appointments.

Dr Mani offers a health screening service which has many benefits, including prevention and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It can help identify underlying health issues and can significantly reduce risk and improve the prognosis of illness.

Several conditions such as thyroid problems, liver disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and prostate cancer benefit from early detection.

Dr Mani recently diagnosed early prostate cancer in a number of patients which would have been missed otherwise.

One of Dr Mani’s specialities is menopausal services – she completed a course on the menopause and HRT recently to refresh and

SKIN BOOSTER

There’s one beauty treatment that is so good, the results actually speak for themselves – it’s called Seventy Hyal and it’s available here in the Ribble Valley at Angels Kay’s

An amazing new addition to treatments offered by experienced beauty expert

Angela Kay, Seventy Hyal isn’t a filler, it isn’t permanent and doesn’t freeze anything. It is effectively an injectable moisturiser containing one of the highest hyaluronic acid molecular weights on the market, which is injected by a tiny needle into the face.

Because it is injected directly into the layer of skin that needs it the most, it plumps and hydrates far more effectively than topical creams. Seventy Hyal is an incredibly effective remodelling injectable for tightening and plumping the skin combating fine lines and crepiness.

Also effective on the neck and hands,

update her knowledge and understanding of the latest treatments on offer.

Menopause can be associated with debilitating symptoms which often coincide with other modern-life challenges. The approach to menopause needs to be holistic and Dr Mani can help manage it.

Contact Dr Mani for health screening, menopausal services or any other medical conditions you need support with. She will offer you a speedy, efficient service and also provides access to a local private hospital for x-rays, scans and a specialist consultant, should they be required. n

Lancashire GP 14 High Street, Garstang Preston PR3 1FA 01995 238081 lancashiregp.co.uk

it stimulates collagen production naturally and provides a deep long-lasting hydration giving the skin a glowing natural look, improving texture and overall radiance. Results are instant but it can take up to four weeks for best results as it requires time to spread and trigger collagen and elastin production.

The before and after images show results after just two sessions within five months. Results last up to six to 12 months.

Angela is always delighted to speak to clients to explain treatments and special offers available. n

Angela

Angela

Accrington BB5 1HN 07813 195888 angelakays.co.uk aklaser.co.uk akbrows.com

LUXURY AND EXPERTISE

Cass Preston, owner of The Volume Clinic, is an experienced professional stylist who also specialises in the very latest hair thinning solutions, writes Gail Bailey

The luxurious Volume Clinic is fortunate to have Cass Preston at the helm with her wealth of experience in the hair industry, which includes holding a degree in colouring.

Alongside hair styling and colour treatments the salon offers solutions for clients suffering from hair thinning and loss: “We offer different treatments including meshless integration systems and bespoke human hair wigs,” explains Cass. “All the solutions we work with focus on the very latest technology and are recommended dependent upon individual needs.”

However, recognising that a lot of her customers may be nervous about committing to a full hair replacement system straight away The Volume Clinic offers a further solution in a range of toppers. “They look completely natural, are easy to apply and remove, giving clients the flexibility to try the look without it being a permanent solution,” Cass says.

Whilst hair loss and thinning can be due to many different reasons some customers may also just want a bit more hair, or a more glamorous look for a special occasion: “We supply toppers to clients of all ages and in lots of different circumstances,” Cass adds. “They are a practical, effective solution, skin-safe and can be kept securely in position for weeks at a time, even through gym and swim sessions!”

Clinic can advise on the best solution for each clients’ needs and budget, and they supply synthetic finishes through to the very finest human quality hair. Human hair toppers tend to be most suited for those who hope to ultimately progress onto a fully integrated system, and the right product for the right customer is selected under the expert guidance of Cass.

One fabulous new product now available at the salon is Future Hair: “Since the pandemic there has been a shortage of human hair and Future Hair

clients leave the salon with great hair but also a feeling of new-found confidence and wellbeing,” she says. “We pride ourselves in enabling clients to switch off from the outside world, enjoy the privacy of our unique salon, and if they like, have the place to themselves. We often have friends or mothers and daughters coming along to enjoy being pampered with a glass of fizz together!” n

For more information and appointments contact Cass on: 01254 823333

hello@thevolumeclinic.co.uk

Using a topper is an affordable option that gives an outstanding, immaculate finish. The Volume

I AM PASSIONATE ABOUT ENSURING CLIENTS LEAVE THE SALON WITH GREAT HAIR BUT ALSO A FEELING OF NEWFOUND CONFIDENCE AND WELLBEING

offers an amazing version of synthetic hair, which gives the benefit of human hair without the price tag. It’s heat resistant too – perfect!”

Not only does The Volume Clinic offer skilled hair styling and design using the very finest products and treatments, it is also a place of luxury and privacy: “I am passionate about ensuring

The Volume Clinic 2 Eden Gardens Brockhall Village Old Langho BB6 8HW 01254 823333

hello@thevolumeclinic.co.uk

thevolumeclinic.co.uk

MOVING UP THE TRAVEL AGENDA

‘Slow’ tourism is moving up the travel agenda with locals and visitors encouraged to explore the natural environment in a sustainable, eco-friendly way

With a ‘travel light, shop local and stay longer’ ethos, Eco Escapes is a new collaboration that enables visitors to enjoy Lancashire’s outstanding natural landscapes while being mindful of the environment and supporting local business.

Eco Escapes is hosted by Discover Bowland in partnership with the Forest of Bowland and Arnside and Silverdale Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

Forest of Bowland AONB sustainable tourism officer Hetty Byrne explains: “For many, Lancashire conjures up images of cobbled streets and mills, but the Red Rose County is also home to some outstandingly beautiful rural scenery and unique landscapes.

THE RED ROSE COUNTY IS HOME TO SOME OUTSTANDINGLY BEAUTIFUL RURAL SCENERY AND UNIQUE LANDSCAPES

“The Forest of Bowland is an important stronghold for the iconic hen harrier and the increasingly endangered curlew, while osprey, bittern, otters, red squirrels and a host of scarce wildflowers are thriving in the limestone coastal landscapes of

“Eco Escapes aims to protect and nurture our fragile environments while welcoming visitors who are happy to travel light, shop local and maybe linger a while longer in these outstandingly beautiful landscapes.”

The two AONBs have devised sustainable short breaks, encouraging visitors to arrive by train and explore the two areas on foot, by bike or on e-bike. These rural landscapes are readily accessible from railway stations at Bentham, Carnforth, Clitheroe, Lancaster and Silverdale.

The Eco Escapes website provides car-free, sustainable travel plans which link main stations and visitor attractions and highlight visitor destinations which support sustainable tourism. Visiting these destinations will support Lancashire’s rural businesses and build momentum behind a new model of less carbon intensive tourism in fragile rural environments.

Sustainable or ‘slow’ tourism is moving up the travel agenda and the good news is that many of Lancashire’s outstanding natural environments can be reached by

Arnside and Silverdale.

Photography: Mark Tattersall

Photography: Mark Tattersall

Photography: Salar Media

Photography: Salar Media

train and explored on foot, by bike – or increasingly – by e-bike.

The initiative encourages visitors to take the train and discover Lancashire’s unique limestone coastline at Silverdale on the edge of Morecambe Bay or explore the remote uplands of the Forest of Bowland in an active staycation that explores some of the undiscovered rural oases that characterise the northern reaches of the Red Rose County.

In Arnside and Silverdale AONB discover distinctive local wildlife among Lancashire’s rugged limestone coast and follow meandering trails through dense deciduous woodland and wildflower meadows.

In the Forest of Bowland AONB take a digital detox and explore the wide-open spaces, lonely uplands and secluded valleys of one of England’s most remote rural oases.

The Eco Escapes website is a rich resource for visitors who want to tread lightly, reduce their environmental impact and support local independent businesses.

two AONBs are also completing green tourism training and accreditation as part of the Eco Escapes initiative.

Councillor Shaun Turner, Lancashire Country Council cabinet member for environment and climate change adds: “Few people outside the county realise Lancashire has some extraordinarily beautiful rural landscapes – these hidden gems are some of the county’s best-kept secrets.

“We have prioritised rural areas like the Forest of Bowland and Arnside and Silverdale with Rural Recovery Funding to help rural

entrepreneurs reboot their businesses and build back better, more resilient rural enterprises to meet the increasing demand from visitors who really appreciate the benefits of spending time outdoors in Lancashire’s outstanding natural landscapes.

“Supporting businesses in this way will not only encourage more spending in rural areas but will also help drive further investment in the rural economy going forward.” n

As well as a series of ecotourism itineraries, a guide to sustainable and ethical businesses and an accommodation finder, the website also links to detailed walking and cycling routes, an events guide and details of seasonal wildlife and nature highlights.

Sustainable tourism businesses, hospitality and accommodation providers across the

ecoescapes.org.uk

ECO ESCAPES AIMS TO PROTECT AND NURTURE OUR FRAGILE ENVIRONMENTS WHILE WELCOMING VISITORS WHO ARE HAPPY TO TRAVEL LIGHT AND SHOP LOCAL

Photography: Salar Media

Photography: Mark Tattersall

Photography: Mark Tattersall

BIGGER AND EVEN BETTER

Ribble Valley Animal Feeds has met a growth in demand by recently moving to larger premises, with more stock and more new lines introduced. Owner Olivia Johnstone is a true example of a local success story, writes Gail Bailey. Photography: Andy Tighe

With six dogs, two horses and a donkey, owner of Ribble Valley Animal Feeds Olivia Johnstone is perfectly placed to advise on all things related to both domestic and farm animals: “Since opening in November 2019 there has been a growth in demand for pet food and products, especially for dogs,” explains Olivia.

“So, when we saw that a new building across the road from our original store had become available, it was the ideal opportunity to move. We have doubled the size of our store and have more customer parking – it’s perfect.

“We stock a wide selection of products and are constantly on the lookout for new and innovative ranges and we also try to use smaller, local businesses,” Olivia adds.

One such brand is Pawsome Paws, who specialise in dog leads, collars and accessories – a successful business that is also stocked in John Lewis.

“Pawsome Paws is quirky and different,” says Olivia. “When the company started the products were being handmade in the owner’s spare bedroom and they now occupy a 3,000 square foot HQ in Leeds. It’s constantly evolving, and the products are really popular with our customers.”

WE STOCK A WIDE SELECTION OF PRODUCTS AND ARE CONSTANTLY ON THE LOOKOUT FOR NEW AND INNOVATIVE RANGES

Ribble Valley Animal Feeds also stock Ruff and Tumble natural towelling dogdrying coats – a fabulous innovative brand: “These two-layered coats are amazing. The under-layer takes moisture from the dog’s fur and then their body heat pushes the moisture through to the outer layer –meaning your dog doesn’t sit in a damp towel!” explains Olivia.

A popular dog food sold by Ribble Valley Animal Feeds is Eden Holistic Pet Food.

“It is 80 per cent meat and as close to a raw diet as you can get in a dried range. The food is formulated with only the highest quality freshly prepared animal ingredients and a range of fruit, vegetables, botanicals and the very best quality minerals and vitamins, which culminates in a tasty product that helps to develop the dog’s lean muscle mass,” says Olivia.

However, one of the stores biggest selling dog foods is their very own grain free

brand: “It is 50 per cent meat, 50 per cent fruit and vegetables and highly rated on allaboutdogfood.com – the best place to visit to make an informed choice about what to feed your pet,” Olivia adds.

Visit Ribble Valley Animal Feeds in their fabulous new store in Barrow – a treat for you and your pet! n

Ribble Valley Animal

01200 411678

ribblevalleyanimalfeeds.co.uk

Opening Hours

Monday to Friday: 9am-6pm Saturday: 9am-4pm Sunday: 10am-4pm

IN THE SADDLE

Now that schools are back, the summer months may seem like a distant past, but nonetheless Chipping Pony Club members have made many memories to look back on, writes Megan Conlon

Last month, all members of Chipping Pony Club had the chance to attend an all-day working rally held on Chipping Show Field. Rallies are run to give members the opportunity to learn from expert instructors and work towards their tests and achievement badges. They have often been described as the ‘backbone of the Pony Club’ as they encourage members of all ages to be involved and make friends for life.

This time we had three rides, based on experience and ability – each riding twice, once in the morning and once in the afternoon. Flatwork sessions encouraged riders to be at one with their horse and figure out which ‘buttons’ to press in order to achieve the best performance from their horse.

Once members had built a course, their showjumping lesson allowed them to practise on hilly terrain and get that crisp, clean round which we all strive for. Between these lessons, members were taught horse and pony care and stable management, leading to some earning achievement badges!

The day was enjoyed by all, members

and parents alike. The club was also happy to welcome several new members who came to try out Pony Club and experience a rally for the first time, as well as others who came to watch.

New members are always encouraged, so if you’re unsure you can always bring your pony to something and just give it a go!

Members have also been gearing up for this year’s Winter League Mounted Games

competitions, with regular practices restarting. Games are known for bringing fast-paced fun to Pony Club, and some of our more experienced junior riders, who competed last year, have certainly developed the knack and can show the beginners the level they can aim for. For the beginners, we tend to start slow – speed is meaningless without accuracy and if you make a mistake you must turn around and correct it! By starting slowly, riders are able to get their eye in and understand the rules of each race, before starting to pick up or put down each object while continuously moving past it.

Once riders have mastered this, they can get faster and faster until it is competition day and they can display all they have learnt in fierce competition with the other clubs in our area.

Despite the dissipating sunshine, Chipping Pony Club continues to run various events and training sessions for tests, upcoming competitions and the progression of each and every rider in the club, throughout the autumn months. Watch this space! 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

Diane (the French Oaks) at Chantilly.

Despite a few near misses, her horses never won the Derby. Aureole came closest when finishing second in 1953 and Carlton House was third in 2011.

She had a wonderful triumph in her Silver Jubilee year when one of her best horses, Dunfermline, won the 1977 Oaks and St Leger.

There were many people at Doncaster this year who were claiming to have been there that day.

HIGHLIGHT ON A SOMBRE DAY

to enjoy considerable success over the following decades, perhaps most famously when in the summer of 2013 Estimate carried her iconic silks to Gold Cup glory at Royal Ascot, the fixture most associated with her than any other.

Asensational run by Atrium, brilliantly ridden by William Buick, was a Highclere highlight on a sombre St Leger day at Doncaster when all thoughts turned to racing’s greatest patron, HM Queen Elizabeth ll.

The Queen was a hugely successful owner and breeder of racehorses throughout her long reign. In fact, she was Britain’s champion flat owner in 1954 and 1957 and continued

Throughout her 70 years on the throne, racing was her primary interest, so much so that in all but exceptional circumstances, she annually attended the Derby at Epsom and then every day of Royal Ascot which traditionally begins with a royal procession, in which the Queen travelled up the racecourse in the lead carriage.

She enjoyed success in four of the five British Classics, including her filly, Highclere, winning the 1974 1000 Guineas before completing a Classic double in the Prix de

REMARKABLY, THE QUEEN LAST YEAR

ENJOYED MORE SUCCESS ON BRITISH RACECOURSES THAN AT ANY TIME SINCE 1988

Remarkably, the Queen last year enjoyed more success on British racecourses than at any time since 1988. Her colours were carried to victory in 36 races with over £580,000 won in prize money placing her in the top 20 of leading owners, only four British entries finishing ahead of her.

It was her passion – and racing will miss her greatly.

Atrium will hopefully now head to Ascot on Champions Day to run in the Balmoral Handicap. It’s an extremely valuable race and one we’d all love to win.

At the other end of the spectrum, we are seeing some of our two year olds having their first runs with Pastiche, Design, Proverb and Reflex all making debuts recently. It’s an exciting time of the racing year! n

Highclere – Jason Fildes 01200 444622 07721 311778 jason@highclere.co.uk highclereracing.co.uk

Jason Fildes reviews a Highclere highlight and pays tribute to the Queen, who was a much celebrated and successful owner and breeder of racehorses

Photography: Nigel Kirby

Northcote also has a fabulous signature livery package which includes everything for both rider and horse: “Our clients can rest assured that while they are busy working or taking care of their family, their horses are in the best hands. We take care of everything to ensure our clients’ horses have everything they need for optimum health and wellbeing.”

Alongside this high level of care Emily and her team also compete clients’ horses nationally and internationally so owners can travel to different venues and watch their horses compete at the highest level.

Since taking ownership of Northcote Stud, Emily and her team have quickly used their expertise to create a leading venue. Their calendar of events encompasses all Olympic disciplines.

FIRST CLASS EVENTS

AND ENTERTAINMENT

It has been an exciting summer of shows and events at the North of England’s premier equestrian venue, Northcote Stud, writes Gail Bailey

Some of the leading riders have been competing over the summer at Northcote Stud, as Managing Director Emily Whiteside says: “Our international show in May was fantastically well attended.

“Kindly sponsored by AW Jenkinson Forest Products, and with a prize fund of over £50,000 we had 350 horses on site, with spectators enjoying the riding, the facilities and the atmosphere.” Robert Smith and Guy Williams, both international riders, were among the competitors, with Robert winning the 2* Grand Prix.

“Our prestigious Young Horse Show was also a sell out again,” Emily adds. “This is for up-and-coming young horses and is brilliant experience for them and their riders. The focus is on courses that are specifically for the age of the horse, so it’s the perfect opportunity to develop a young horse’s skills.”

Northcote Stud had 10 multi-day events this year attracting large crowds and working collaboratively with other local businesses

is an important aspect. Flowers, prizes, food for the café and restaurant and drinks for the bar, are all sourced locally.

Corporate sponsors of events are also reaping the benefits with live streaming from Clip My Horse, a global platform watched by thousands. Sponsorship can take many forms such as an arena board, corporate hospitality with VIP seating, social media and website promotion, branded merchandise, trade stand space and opportunities to meet winning athletes with presentation photographs.

Emily says: “We ensure we provide top class sport and a venue that horses, riders and spectators enjoy. No matter what the event, we have the same attention to detail.

“We have some exciting events coming up including top class entertainment –keep a look out on our social media pages. With so many multi-day shows per year, we are home of the stay-away and can’t wait to welcome you to Northcote for some northern hospitality!” n

Pictured (top left) Robert Smith winner of the Grand Prix at the International, being awarded the prize by sponsor AW Jenkinson

For details of sponsorship visit: northcotestud.co.uk

Entry to events is free to spectators and is a fantastic opportunity to watch top level sport here in the North West. The Bridle Café has a focus on modern street food, whereas The Saddle Lounge is a comfortable space to relax with a fabulous view of the arena and a full-service bar. It is also available to hire for corporate and family events.

Blackburn

01254 790025 07774 968006 northcotestud.co.uk

DONATE A COAT AND GET 10% OFF A NEW BARBOUR! Purchase a new Barbour coat from Vareys Town & Country in Clitheroe and receive a 10% discount when you donate your old coat.

KEEP SOMEONE ELSE WARM THIS WINTER

He is asking people to donate a coat in exchange for 10 per cent off a new Barbour coat from Varey’s Town and Country on Market Place in Clitheroe.

He explains: “We want customers to think about other people when they buy a coat. It would be wonderful if we can donate coats to people in need so we can help keep them warm this winter.”

IT WOULD BE WONDERFUL IF WE CAN DONATE COATS TO PEOPLE IN NEED TO KEEP THEM WARM THIS WINTER

As the nights draw in and the weather turns chilly, wrap up warm and keep someone else warm too!

Working alongside church organisations and charities, Ribble Valley businessman and Conservative councillor

Kevin Horkin MBE has launched a campaign, which he hopes will keep people in need warm this winter.

All people need to do is bring in a coat they no longer want, ensure it’s clean and serviceable and it will be donated to a local coat bank run in conjunction with Varey’s charitable partners.

Your donated coat will then be passed on to someone who really needs to keep warm as the weather gets colder and temperatures drop.

Working alongside the Reverend Andy Froud of St Mary’s Church in Clitheroe, it is hoped that a storage facility can be set up for the coats, which will be donated to the needy from mid-October.

So, if you are thinking of buying a new Barbour coat and have an old one to donate, call in to Ken Varey’s Town and Country in Clitheroe to get 10 per cent off a new one. n

Varey’s

Firstly, thanks to everyone who has taken the time to contact me over the last few weeks – it’s good to keep both the conversation and the debates alive.

We’ve seen ourselves in the last couple of weeks living through a period of huge historical change and I’d like to share the sentiment of our local MP Nigel Evans who, in his column this month, thanks our beloved Queen Elizabeth II for a lifetime of service. She will be sorely missed – God Save the King.

Iwas invited to speak at the Clitheroe Town Team’s recent AGM and offered them my support through the magazine to convey their objectives. This is a passionate group of people made up of many sectors, all with the common goal of getting Clitheroe back to all its glory as a thriving market town. The committee is made up of a cross section of likeminded individuals from faith, retail, hospitality, culture, tourism and local young people. They are challenged in their objective by not being recognised by RVBC and, in my opinion, they need to find their voice and shout very loudly if they are to be heard. Their Chair Cllr Sue Hind updated us on the aptly named ‘Mumbai streets’ situation. The group heard that unless the match funding by RVBC of £350k was confirmed by March 2023 the money from LCC will be lost forever. The group found this incredulous – as do I. Cllr Hind suggested lobbying your local councillors but if you do – do it quickly!

I’m indebted to another reader who flagged up an article about the imminent closure of Ribble Valley Citizen’s Advice Bureau (CAB) based in Clitheroe. The funding required to run this has been withdrawn by RVBC after systematically reducing it from the required £75k to £40k – it’s

now untenable to pay their costs. This is a huge loss to Clitheroe as the nearest CABs are in Accrington, Blackburn or Burnley – you can imagine these towns having enough problems of their own without being inundated with requests from residents from the Ribble Valley. The CAB is the conduit to help families, who are finding things tough and there are referrals to the food banks and indeed a range of other ‘banks’ popping up to help those less well off in our community, who need help in a variety of ways. In my view this is disgraceful and needs urgent debate and a rethink by those who have it in their power to reverse this decision. Can you think of a worst time than this winter to take away this service? Many of us are blessed with having the means to survive, but I urge you to be kind and try and help those less fortunate.

We also need to get behind our local businesses as we approach the crucial Christmas period. Unsurprisingly, I have thus far had no response to my request from RVBC in ascertaining their economic plans for this incredibly important quarter. In next month’s issue we’ll endeavour to promote the work of the private sector in late-night shopping and other events trying to drive footfall. I urge RVBC to put everything they can behind a campaign to shop local. After two years of Covid and uncertainty, this winter it is vital to swell both the coffers on the high street and our beleaguered hospitality sector on which our local economy relies heavily. Ten empty shops in Clitheroe is a worrying barometer of what might come. I think the phrase is ‘use them or lose them’ and it’s up to all of us to help. They must, of course, help themselves by reminding us why independent shops offer such a great experience in terms of value for money and service.

The months ahead certainly look challenging both for businesses and families alike. The cost-of-living crisis is all around us and kindness never more needed than now. Please look after yourselves, your families and those around you, who may need a little extra help.

If anyone wants details of how you can help our local community please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

To close, whilst this column is a platform to raise concerns and awareness on what’s happening in our local communities, it’s also a platform to report on the many positive and uplifting things that are taking place, so please feel free to share these with me too –we could all do with some good news! n

The views above are my own and I’d be delighted to get some replies to my questions and will report back on any progress and positive outcomes.

tedd.walmsley@live-magazines.co.uk

Live Magazines’ Tedd Walmsley voices concerns over the proposed closure of Clitheroe’s Citizen’s Advice Bureau and urges us all to be kind to each other in times of hardship

At Everything Retreat guests can relax and enjoy some quiet time – help yourself to a Nespresso or complimentary gin and tonic with a good book. Embark on a challenging walk through rolling hills or a gentle stroll on quiet woodland tracks – or go on an e-bike adventure – there are activities to suit everyone and a luxury concierge service to arrange them.

BEAUTIFUL BACKDROP

Looking forward to a laid-back autumn, the team at Everything Retreat can’t wait to welcome you to their luxurious hideaway

Everything Retreat has been open since the beginning of summer and Louise Monk and her team are delighted with how many guests have stayed and re-booked after enjoying themselves so much at this boutique, luxury resort.

Each of Everything Retreat’s luxurious signature and themed lodges nestles in the wonderful Lancashire countryside surrounded by nature and wildlife.

Now looking forward to a laid-back autumn, the team is set to welcome more guests who can enjoy cosy nights and adventurepacked days.

THINK SNUG YET SPACIOUS, WITH HEAVENLY HOT TUBS BENEATH THE STARS

“Think snug yet spacious, with heavenly hot tubs beneath the stars,” says Louise, who has enthusiastically thanked guests for sharing their five-star reviews on social media: “We can’t thank them enough for sharing their experience with friends on social media, it really has helped get us out there!”

Reflecting on a busy summer Everything Retreat now looks forward to a new season of glowing sunsets and autumnal colours.

For lunch or dinner or simply a great day out, Everything Retreat enjoys hand-picked partnerships and collaborations with the likes of Northcote, Stydd Gardens, Holmes Mill, Yu, Tiggis and Whalley Wine Bar.

“We are looking forward to autumn – it sets a beautiful backdrop for a gorgeous getaway,” says Louise.

So, whether you’re looking for a mid-week romantic retreat for two or a long weekend, take a look at the updated website.

Coming up at Everything Retreat – watch out for Winter Wonderland packages, two-night stays with a special-rate third night and exciting plans in terms of new experiences at the retreat! n

EVERYTHING retreat

MIND MATTERS

Retirement, should I stay or should I go? Therapeutic coach Lynn Scholes looks into the choices we have

For some retirement is something that you count the days down to and look forward to for months or even years before it happens. For others it is the biggest decision they may make.

For many the emotional transition is the most challenging aspect of moving into the next life phase.

Those fears may focus around:

• Can I afford to retire?

• What happens if I regret it?

• Will I miss the status my job gives me?

• How will I fill my time?

• Will I miss my colleagues?

Deciding when to retire may be one of the most important decisions you make in your life. Previously, for many, at the age of 60 for ladies and 65 for men, there was an expectation you would retire.

Times have now changed enabling more choices. With an increase in the retirement age there is now the option to work much longer or to take private pensions sooner. Work pressures, running a business and income considerations can challenge the best of us and our work life balance. However, making that decision to jump off the treadmill at the right time, can leave people in real conflict.

• How will it affect my relationship with my partner?

• Will my children expect me to step in as childminder?

• Will we/I have to downsize our home?

• Should I retire before my partner? How will that feel?

For business owners there is also the added concerns around:

• Is my business marketable and what income will that generate?

• Should I leave family or colleagues to run things? Can I trust them? How would it feel if they make different decisions to me?

• I worry for the future of my employees?

•

It has been my passion and focus for so long, can I let go of the reins?

• Will I lose my purpose and perhaps identity?

There is often in-house support or financial planning advice to help you prepare for that aspect of retirement.

However, that does not support the emotional transition that so many people face.

That unresolved conflict can lead to people continuing to work longer than they really want to or have planned to.

SO, WHAT CAN WE DO?

Having a life plan that sits alongside your financial plan is key:

• Focus on how you are going to spend your time.

• Do you want to take on more of a consultancy role?

• How are you going to keep socially connected?

• What hobbies have you always wanted to pursue?

• What boundaries do you need to put in place for yourself and others?

FOCUS ON THE POSITIVE

You are about to write the next chapter in your life. You are moving into that period with all the wisdom and experience you have gained over the years. Use it to evaluate what you need to have in place, for this chapter to be a really happy and positive phase. Look at the new opportunities it gives you.

Speaking to others about what helped them, can be really helpful.

If, after considering all of your options and speaking to family and friends, you are still unsure and concerned, reach out and get the support of a life coach.

It’s important to choose a life coach specialising in retirement as they can offer you an expert view, to help you gain a more considered and accurate assessment of your future life choices.

Going into retirement with a realistic expectation, goes a long way to ensuring the decision is the right one for you. n

Lynn Scholes is a writer, trainer, speaker and therapeutic coach working with individuals and companies of all sizes in the field of career and business. She also specialises in many key areas including retirement.

To find out more about how she can help you, you can contact her on 07753 579745 or go to: focus101.co.uk

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Our company Landseer Leisure is the culmination of passionate, innovative, and highly experienced engineers and design experts.

Drawing on the strength of their unique skill sets, the Landseer team are proud and excited to bring to market the resulting, outstanding, new generation of campervan… the Landseer range.

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Through our extensive experience in the motorhome and campervan industry, get ready to take your adventures to a new and exciting level.

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The Ford Landseer combines maximum living space, a high level of specification

The Ford Landseer combines maximum living space, a high level of specification and a range of innovative features to ensure the most practical and enjoyable motorhome experience.

You are riding your Ribble CGR Ti –how is the bike holding up?

Better than I am! I rode the CGR Ti during my 2020/21 adventure – the North Africa Coddiwomple, and I am happy to be riding it again. I have confidence that this bike is almost indestructible! I’ve nicknamed it ‘Cousin of Sparklehorse’ after my friend Chris Greenan’s own bike ‘Sparklehorse’ –Chris is the organiser of the Trans Alba.

You have undertaken a few amazing challenges on various Ribble bikes –do tell us about them?

I am a lucky cyclist. I am lucky because I seem to have gotten involved in some amazing challenges and Ribble has always supported me. A quick recap on most

LUBLIN TO DUBLIN

Embarking on an epic adventure, cyclist Eoghan McHugh’s journey will take him through eight European countries on his Ribble CGR Ti

Meet the cyclist riding 4,000km on his Ribble bike. Eoghan McHugh’s journey has been designed to take in landscapes affected by the climate crises.

Lublin to Dublin – sounds an interesting challenge, tell us how this came about and what does it involve?

I was originally approached by Verano by MDL Solutions, who challenged me with the idea of cycling through their European footprint taking in and visiting some of their partner’s offices to create a journal. An interesting idea but had the potential to be so much more!

I designed the Lublin to Dublin Coddiwomple as an adventure and vehicle to support UK-based tree-planting charity, Protect Earth. It is around 4,000 kilometres taking in eight European countries, over six weeks and around 120 kilometres per day on my Ribble bike allowing me to take in landscapes affected by the climate crises. What are you hoping this challenge will achieve?

I’m hoping to raise awareness of climate change and raise funds in the process for Protect Earth. Starting in September, it’s perfect. The length of time, the distances covered and changes in seasons, will go a long way in showcasing all of this. Europe faced very difficult weather this summer. And, challenging weather is now becoming the norm!

To prepare did you undertake any specific training?

I carry a fairly good level of fitness. About two months before starting this adventure, I tested that idea by joining a friend during the first few days of this year’s Pan Celtic. I rode from the start in St David’s to checkpoint one in Schull, Ireland, and then rode solo back home. It was 960 kilometres, which I completed in four days – and lived! It proved I wasn’t too rusty on the bike!

memorable adventures would include Trans Alba on my CGR AL – that was incredible alongside the Atlas Mountain Race on my Adventure Ti. Wow! That was an epic adventure plus Everesting on my Endurance SL, another amazing challenge in conjunction with Surfers Against Sewage.

What has been the most exciting and extraordinary part of this challenge so far?

Adventures by bike always bring me in front of the unexpected – people and places. It’s such a fantastic tool for personal reflection and growth.

So far, my favourite days have been the longer, more challenging days – riding hours in the rain or those long days where I am still cycling after the sun has gone to bed for the evening. The challenges and difficulties remind me I am on an amazing adventure, spotlighting an incredible charity and making incredible memories along the way! n

TALES FROM THE READING ROOM

Holden Clough will soon be opening a lovely Reading Room where visitors can enjoy their new food menu in front of a roaring log fire and immerse themselves in all things gardening

As we approach autumn the magical journey continues at Holden Clough with the opening of the restful Reading Room where visitors can sit quietly amidst specialist gardening books and magazines. Adjoining the Reading Room, visitors will soon be able to pick up a tasty snack in the bright, oak and white eco-space that is mindful of the environment. Choose a warm drink, a slice of home-made cake or signature quiche with salads, all created by Holden Clough’s talented new chef – and take them on a quirky baking tray into the cosy Reading Room to enjoy in the warmth and

tranquility, sheltered away from the chilly Lancashire weather outside!

Warm the cockles and relax in front of the roaring fire in this ultimately serene space that harks back to the 1930’s with heritage garden colours and vintage shelving. Historically a great era for gardening, the decade was a time of fragrant paths, large heirloom rose gardens and plants such as Hydrangeas, Lilacs and Hostas.

RELAX IN FRONT OF THE ROARING FIRE IN THIS ULTIMATELY SERENE SPACE THAT HARKS BACK TO THE 1930’S WITH HERITAGE GARDEN COLOURS

Many of the books have kindly been donated by visitors to Holden Clough to the delight of owners John and Kate Foley, who have warmly thanked their generosity. After immersing yourself in a tale or two, visitors can explore the nursery where, under

AUTUMN ARTISANAL MARKET

22nd & 23rd October 2022

Come and meet some of the region’s finest makers, designers and artisan producers.

Quirky Frog

Sew Country

Wharfedale Soaps

Goosnargh Gin

Susel & Co.

Katie Timpson

Cottage Blue Pig

Little Candle Co

Fairy

The Fudgery

Petal & Fern

Feathery Pheasant My Pink Angel

Simone Cobbald Art Le Weekend

the living roof there are hundreds of spring bulbs ready for planting. Gardeners can choose from a huge selection of pick-yourown Alliums, Narcissus and Tulips plus many more to plant outdoors for bright spring colour or indoors in one of the beautiful vintage-style vessels that can be found in Holden Clough’s stunning Glasshouse.

With a hugely successful season behind them, as the sun sets on summer, Holden Clough is looking ahead to the excitement of Halloween and Christmas. There is an Autumn Artisanal Market called ‘Pumpkin’ coming up featuring some of the region’s finest local makers, designers and producers and from there begins the journey into the festive season of Christmas markets, wreath-making and a world of ‘All Things Christmas’ which is set to be a magical extravaganza! n

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

Open Monday to Saturday: 9am-5pm Sunday: 10.30am-4.30pm (browsing welcome from 9am)

Bolton

Bowland

SHOW SUCCESS

This year’s Hodder Valley Show was a roaring success, drawing record crowds

Historically held on the second Saturday in September for the last 76 years, the Hodder Valley Show continues to be a muchloved, traditional family favourite, bringing together craft, horticulture, livestock, entertainment, music and more.

The show moves between Slaidburn, Newton and Dunsop Bridge each year, and 2022 saw it held at Root Farm, Dunsop Bridge under the supervision of show president Edward Parkinson. Visitors enjoyed

a stunt show, live music from Slaidburn Silver Band, sheepdog trials, a pets parade, cattle fancy dress, the famous fell run, arts, crafts, fantastic local food and drink, a sheep shearing display, children’s forest school activities with Thorneyholme School, vintage tractors, egg catching, and perhaps, most importantly, a well-stocked bar!

Show chair Julie Bennett said: “I waited almost three years to lead the fantastic team of volunteers who pull this day together. It’s been a whole year of planning, fundraising and social events in support of our one-day show.

“We are all united in keeping this great day an annual event for our valley to celebrate and show off the very best of agriculture and rural life and crafts. We make this happen

working nights and weekends around our day jobs as volunteers, so I would like to thank everyone for making the Hodder Valley Show 2022 the most fantastic day.

“We were all shocked and saddened on Thursday evening to hear HM Queen Elizabeth II had passed away. We held the show on her land as planned as a mark of honour to the monarch and a minute’s silence was observed across the show field, remembering the days she had visited our valley and the Whitewell Estate – an area she was very fond of.

“Finally, and most importantly, thank you to all our visitors who came to support our sponsors, exhibitors, trade and craft stands. I hope you had a great day and please save the date for next year – Saturday 9th September 2023, in Slaidburn.” n

More pictures and details of award-winners can be found online at: hoddervalleyshow.co.uk

Photography: David McNamee

Photography: Laura Wells

BRAND NEW SPA AT GILPIN HOTEL SPA & SPICE PACKAGES!

Escape to the brand new Gilpin Spa for a few hours of love, laughter and tranquil bliss in the Lakes, away from the noise of the world. Begin mid morning with a deliciously delinquent glass of Champagne in the bubbling hot tub overlooking the Lakeland fells... Saunter indoors to unwind a little more with a couples’ massage, choosing either from our Pure Lakes or ESPA treatment menus... Rest and rehydrate in the chill out lounge... And when you’re ready, wander downstairs to tingle your tastebuds with a fabulous lunch at Gilpin Spice.

THE BEST E-BIKE EXPERIENCE!

reliability. Brands include British companies Raleigh and Volt, German manufacturer Haibike and French company LaPierre.

The fantastic Woom children’s range is also available with Ribble Valley e-Bikes being one of only three stores in the UK authorised to stock the brand.

And with half term on the horizon why not start planning a family e-bike adventure as Ribble Valley e-Bikes remains open through the autumn and winter. Roger and the team at Ribble Valley e-Bikes have bikes and trailers for little ones and will even plan a suitable route for you to include a child-friendly ice-cream stop off!

With all the advantages of an e-bike it’s not surprising that Ribble Valley e-Bikes is extending its fleet with world-leading brands and is rapidly growing into one of the best e-bike experiences in the UK.

In order to continue to offer a first-class service, Ribble Valley e-Bikes’ owner Roger Wolstenholme has exciting plans for the Dunsop Bridge headquarters where some of the best e-bikes can be bought, hired and repaired.

“Dunsop Bridge is known as the centre of the kingdom so what better place to be based? Cyclists have all the beautiful villages and trails to explore, it’s a perfect day out!”

Working from traditional garage premises, visitors looking to hire or buy a bike from Ribble Valley e-Bikes, have a vast array of choice.

New to Ribble Valley e-Bikes are road, hybrid and mountain bikes, from oldestablished Italian brand Bianchi, which are conceived, designed and developed at their headquarters in Bergamo.

Also joining the new line-up is the revolutionary, award-winning German brand Advanced Bikes, that has produced a stunning composite framed bike that is fully recyclable. The eco-friendly RECO (REcycled and COmposite) combines digital technology with superior design.

CYCLISTS HAVE ALL THE BEAUTIFUL VILLAGES AND TRAILS TO EXPLORE, IT’S A PERFECT DAY OUT!

Bianchi and Advanced Bikes will enhance the existing Ribble Valley e-Bikes fleet that features carefully-selected bikes to suit all levels of cycling, offering quality and

Ridden just like a conventional bike, e-bikes have the added bonus of a battery-powered drive system to give a boost when required so the rolling hills and beautiful Ribble Valley countryside can be enjoyed with ease – and lots of fresh air!

“We always aim to exceed e-bike expectations,” says Roger, who over the coming months hopes to redevelop the Dunsop Bridge HQ to create an unrivalled e-bike experience.

To discover a world that is better for you and better for the environment call into Ribble Valley e-Bikes to meet Roger and the team and see the fabulous collection of bikes that are for sale and for hire.

Your green adventure starts here! n

Ribble Valley e-Bikes

Dunsop Bridge Garage Dunsop Bridge, Clitheroe BB7 3BB 01200 426246

info@ribblevalley-e-bikes.co.uk

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MAGICAL TIME…

years old, we’re simply resurrecting it again, and adding a bit of fun to the proceedings!

It’s exciting for children to dress up and clutching their plastic cauldrons or pumpkins go out on Halloween – often only visiting homes where there’s a pumpkin lit outside.

As autumn settles in and the dark nights descend, it’s a busy time for those who love Halloween and Bonfire Night – and usually, it’s not just the children who like to party at this time of year!

HALLOWEEN

Halloween today has none of the fear and mystery it held for our Medieval ancestors, who would most sincerely believe that ghosts of souls in purgatory would walk amongst them – usually with no good intentions!

Interestingly, the most well-known, and possibly most disputed, element of today’s Halloween celebrations also lies in Medieval times – trick-or-treating resembles the late Medieval practice of souling, when the poor would go door to door receiving food in

return for their prayers for the dead on All Souls’ Day. Prayers for the dead were mightily important, as the more prayers said for a person, the quicker they would go to heaven. Shakespeare even mentions the practice in his comedy The Two Gentlemen of Verona, when Speed accuses his master of ‘puling like a beggar at Hallowmas’.

If trick or treating doesn’t appeal, there are of course alternative traditions, such as apple bobbing, which is great fun! You can also ‘build a monster’ a particularly gruesome game that gets kids squealing every time. Tell them you need their help to build a monster, but as it’s a top secret exercise they need to be blindfolded at all times.

So, next time somebody complains about how American Halloween has become – you can tell them that it’s a tradition hundreds of

Blindfold each child and then lead them to the kitchen table, where you have assembled a collection of ‘body parts’. Talk them through the build, from top to bottom, as you insert the ‘eyeballs’ – peeled grapes or lychees, attach the ears (dried apples, moistened with water), add the intestines (oily spaghetti), pour in the brain (cold porridge), stitch on the fingers (hot dog sausages) and finally pop in the heart (a greasy balloon partially filled with warm water). Get as imaginative as you can!

It’s that time of year when trick or treating comes around and the night skies light up with fireworks

IF TRICK OR TREATING DOESN’T APPEAL, THERE ARE TRADITIONS, SUCH AS APPLE BOBBING, WHICH IS GREAT FUN!

BONFIRE NIGHT

Hot on the heels of Halloween is Bonfire Night. Remember, remember the fifth of November – the children’s nursery rhyme reminds us of why we gather round a bonfire on a dark, cold night and watch the fireworks get bigger, better and louder!

Of course, we also still burn an effigy of Guy Fawkes atop the bonfire, the unfortunate plotter whose name will live on for far different reasons than he could possibly have hoped for. Fawkes was a passionate Catholic who had left Protestant England for the continent, where he fought in the Eighty Years’ War on the side of Catholic Spain against Protestant Dutch reformers. He travelled to Spain to seek support for a Catholic rebellion in England but was unsuccessful.

REMEMBER, REMEMBER THE FIFTH OF NOVEMBER

However, he later met Thomas Wintour, with whom he returned to England. Wintour introduced Fawkes to Robert Catesby, who planned to assassinate King James I and restore a Catholic monarch to the throne. The plotters secured the lease to an undercroft beneath the House of Lords, and Fawkes was placed in charge of the gunpowder they stockpiled there. Prompted by the receipt of an anonymous letter, the authorities searched Westminster Palace during the early hours of 5th November and found Fawkes guarding the explosives. Fawkes was sentenced to a gruesome end, set to be hung, drawn and quartered. However, he managed to jump from the scaffolding beforehand, breaking his neck and so avoided the agony of his planned execution. Despite being only one of a group of plotters, Fawkes of course became synonymous with the Gunpowder Plot, which has been commemorated in England since 1605.

Starting with bonfires and burning effigies, fireworks soon became an integral part, although they were little more than small explosions and nothing like the colourful, spangly delights of today. Many of us will choose to attend an organised event on Fireworks Night, being wholly unable to compete with their magnificent displays in our own back gardens.

Whatever you choose to do, have a fantastic, and safe, 5th November! n

SOAP DERBYBOX DEBUT

Thousands of spectators lined Berry Lane in Longridge to support the town’s first ever Soap Box Derby

The 14 competing teams in Longridge’s Soap Box Derby came in all shapes and sizes and the crowd enjoyed thrills and spills as the karts negotiated the tricky downhill circuit featuring jumps and chicanes.

After three runs the winners were announced, based on a cumulative score of fastest average time, kart decoration and the team’s entertainment performance.

C M Oxendale, the Great Harwood-based engineering company, ran out overall winners of the Raymond James-sponsored first prize and were also voted most entertaining team. The Raymond James team, Ghost Rider, came in second place, without doubt helped by the stunning rendition of You’ve Lost that Loving Feeling. The best designed kart prize, sponsored by Longridge Gallery, was scooped by Diggers with Attitude (Buckhurst Plant Hire) and the Multipave Missiles was the fastest kart, averaged across the first two runs.

The big winner though was the town

itself. Valuable funds were raised from sponsorship, kart entry fees and advertising for local charity Longridge Community Action (LCA), the event’s organisers. Those funds will be used by LCA to support the most vulnerable in the town in the months ahead. Businesses also benefitted, with the opportunity for spectators to visit the shops, cafes and restaurants on the day.

Wayne Hayhurst is the branch principal of the event’s main sponsor, Raymond James Ribble Valley: “When the idea of a Soap Box Derby was first raised, we immediately wanted to be involved. Longridge is a fabulous place to live, work and play but its businesses have faced significant economic

headwinds in recent times. An event of this scale enables the businesses here to showcase themselves to residents and visitors alike. We really hope Soap Box Derby has lit a fire for everyone to support and visit Longridge in the days and weeks ahead.”

A final word on this incredible day must go to Gary Ward of the Love Longridge business group, which acted as event delivery partner for LCA. “I would like to thank everyone involved in putting on Longridge’s inaugural Soap Box Derby and making it such a success. The thousands who came to cheer on the karts, the teams from across the county, the incredible volunteers – fuelled by Lancashire Tea thank you to them – our charity LCA who have given so much guidance, our unbelievably generous sponsors and finally colleagues at Love Longridge who have worked tirelessly to bring this idea to fruition. Without their enthusiasm, skill and experience it would not have been possible. Thank-you!”

The next Love Longridge event is the annual Longridge Does Christmas late night shopping extravaganza. This year it will take place on Thursday 1st December starting at 6pm. Last year was a huge success and the team are planning for this year’s to exceed that high bar. n

Photography: Fred Little

Photography: Fred Little

Photography: Fred Little

Photography: David Barber

Photography: Stan Pearson

Photography: Stan Pearson

With the passing of the Queen last month, my family has been reflecting on their few meetings with Her Majesty over the years. My grandfather, JR Hindley, captain of the 1952 Olympic Eventing Team, was fortunate enough to get to know the Queen pretty well as they both shared a love of horses and he built a summer home within the grounds of Great Windsor Park, appropriately called Ribblesdale Park.

They regularly rode together within the grounds of the estate. My parents were also privileged to be her guests at Windsor Castle when they were invited to attend Royal Ascot with the royal family and after lunch rode to the races with them in their horse and carriage. Her passing is an enormous loss to the world and will be commemorated at Gisburne Park with the planting of a new lime tree avenue named Elizabeth II. In 1979 we planted a wood called Prince of Wales to commemorate the visit of King Charles II.

Amber and I are pleased to announce that tickets are now live for our annual bonfire night which will be on Saturday 5th November this year (£14 adult/ £8 kids). Gates open from 3pm (earlier than normal) and there will be live music from 4pm.

The biggest bonfire in the north will be lit at 6.30pm and the fireworks begin at approximately 7.30pm, after which there will be an after party with DJs and more

ESTATE LIFE

Lissett Lodges, probably the best manufacturer in the UK. We currently have one show home available to view. If you are interested in a custom-built home on Gisburne Park Estate my brother-in-law, Charlie, will give you a private tour and answer any questions you may have.

charlie@gisburneparkestate.co.uk

classics using local, high quality, Lancashire produce while maintaining an exciting, seasonal and varied specials board to keep everyone interested. All menus will be published on hindelinis.co.uk.

TICKETS ARE NOW LIVE FOR BONFIRE NIGHT

live music. There will be fire dancers, bubble machines and lots of food and drink.

As far as lodge sales are concerned sales are flying and we are really enjoying welcoming new owners to the estate. Our bespoke lodges start at around £250,000 and come from

We are also pleased to announce that over the weekend of 15th and 16th October (11am-3pm) we have a wedding showcase on Gisburne Park. We still have a couple of slots available for 2023 and 2024 so if you’re interested in a tipi wedding and hiring a venue for three nights this is a great opportunity to meet the team and see our magical venue.

I am pleased to say Hindelinis is continuing to hit its mission statement with flying colours. Our aim is to create a fun atmosphere and cook the

The new Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea is now live as is Happy Hour between 5pm and 6pm each weekday. Everything that is planned for the restaurant will be published on our various social media channels and the Hindelinis website. n

Gisburne Park Estate Mill Lane, Gisburn BB7 4LP 01200 415300 gisburnepark.com

For all updates go to: @gisburneparkestate

Gisburne Park Estate is owned and managed by Guy Hindley and his wife Amber, who are converting it into a thriving tourist destination

HOME TRUTHS

Little did I know how gigantic the events of the past few weeks would be. When we were told the news that our Queen had passed away, Parliament was put on immediate lockdown and we had an emergency sitting of the Commons to pay respects to the late Queen and swear loyalty to the King.

I swore the oath on my grandfather’s 1862 Welsh Bible, and also paid my own tribute to Elizabeth ll relaying the story how a lady-in-waiting to Her Majesty once let slip that if the Queen ever retired, she would want to live in the Ribble Valley. The reality was that she had made a commitment at the age of 21 that she would give a lifetime of service to her people, which as the Archbishop of Canterbury said: “No promise has ever been better kept.”

The day after her passing, I received a summons to attend the Accession Council at St James Palace. I was one of 200 Privy Councillors who witnessed the Proclamation of King Charles lll, which was televised for the first time. How strange it was for us to sing God Save the King for the first time.

Days later I was standing with my fellow Deputy Speakers to receive the coffin during a gloriously sung service led by the Archbishop of Canterbury. A queue of dutiful citizens were gathering from early that morning to pay their own tributes.

Over the proceeding days I saw the flowers mounting in the parks, ordinary people slowly and quietly walking with bouquets, flags were flown at half mast, there were black ties and sombre suits everywhere.

I stood with the Speaker on Sunday evening, in Speaker’s Court, alongside the Prime Minister of Ukraine, to stand silent at 8pm in a moment of national reflection.

My final honour was to attend the state funeral of Queen Elizabeth at the Abbey. Opposite me stood the raised coffin draped in the Royal Standard. The crown, sceptre and orb gleamed on top. The choir was ethereal and the prayers personal and touching. On the other side of the coffin were the royal family and heads of states from throughout the world including US President Biden.

At the end of the service, the haunting bagpipe lament brought tears to my eyes. I stood outside the Abbey and looked on as the Navy pulled the coffin on the gun carriage with the bell ringing each minute paying its own homage.

AT THE END OF THE SERVICE, THE HAUNTING BAGPIPE LAMENT BROUGHT TEARS TO MY EYES

I witnessed the final journey of the cortege to Windsor on TV, with the landlord and landlady of the Swan with Two Necks in Pendleton, at one of my Westminster locals. When the Windsor service started the volume was turned up and a hush descended –and when the National Anthem started everyone present in the pub stood up and sang God Save the King.

Children not yet born will be told of how our nation came together in an extraordinary display of affection and grief for the passing of a life of total selfless dedication and commitment.

Thank you ma’am for showing us how important service to your country was for you. You kept your word. We will miss you. You were truly Elizabeth the Great. God save the King. n

Ribble Valley MP Nigel Evans witnesses the Proclamation of King Charles III and attends the Queen’s state funeral in Westminster Abbey

DISCOVER THE ULTIMATE IN LUXURY…

Take a closer look at Mytton Fold and discover a new-look venue that is the ultimate in stylish luxury

Alittle over a year ago a Ribble Valley hotel opened its doors to unveil a stunning transformation.

Under new management and having undergone a huge refurbishment, Mytton Fold revealed itself in all its glory – as a beautiful, elegant venue that works on every level.

From extravagant weddings to smaller intimate family gatherings, from corporate hospitality to a laid-back lunch in the new bar, Mytton Fold is undeniably a stunning hotel that has a smart new look that is both comfortable and cosmopolitan.

The remodelling of Mytton Fold has gone far beyond the hotel’s elegant new look –it has been transformed into a venue that is perfect for just about any event.

With 35 luxuriously appointed en-suite bedrooms and two suites, that have been individually designed with the focus on comfort, Mytton Fold has a passionate, driven team that works behind the scene

ensuring all guests enjoy their experience at this fabulous venue, which is located in its own grounds in the heart of the Ribble Valley countryside.

At the end of a sweeping driveway, this historic stone-built hotel offers a warm welcome to all visitors – whether they are guests at a prestigious wedding, couples seeking a romantic weekend away or simply, colleagues meeting for morning coffee to discuss business.

salads and decadent desserts – all are meticulously presented and taste as good as they look! There are also vegetarian and vegan options too. Guests can dine in the restaurant, contemporary lounge bar or in warmer weather, al fresco on the terrace with views of the Ribble Valley and beyond.

There is also the option of private dining at Mytton Fold. With a newly refurbished, smart private dining room, guests can arrange a small-scale celebration for family and friends or for occasions such as a pre-wedding dinner or christening party.

The substantial remodelling and refurbishment of Mytton Fold has also broadened the options for corporate hospitality and conferences. There are a number of conference rooms and the functions team at the hotel can organise everything from an overnight stay with evening dinner to morning coffee and refreshments for a meeting, along with state-of-the-art projectors and flat screen TVs if required.

Mytton Fold’s newly refurbished restaurant The Fold features menus that change with the seasons. The restaurant’s talented executive chef and his team produce popular classics, weekly seasonal specials, bar snacks,

The spaces at Mytton Fold have been exceptionally well thought out giving guests the ultimate in flexibility when planning an event, whether that’s a lavish wedding or an intimate dinner.

The numerous suites all have their own facilities and if needed can be combined

THE REMODELLING OF MYTTON FOLD HAS GONE FAR BEYOND THE HOTEL’S ELEGANT NEW LOOK

to create a space that can cater for up to 250 people. The Abbey Suite, which has full disabled access, is the largest space that has been elegantly refurbished to feature French-style chandeliers, heritage colours and panelling for well-considered partitioning that can open up or close off adjoining spaces.

The Dunsop Suite which adjoins the Abbey Suite, can be used as a breakout room or for a buffet during meetings and conferences or, for weddings, it presents the perfect opportunity to be used as a soft play area or for a prom event, a space for a photo booth.

THE SPACES HAVE BEEN WELL THOUGHT OUT GIVING GUESTS ULTIMATE FLEXIBILITY

The Calder Suite is perfect for a small business meeting seating up to 14 delegates with conference table and flat screen.

Finally, the Ribble Suite, which like all the other spaces at Mytton Fold, has been totally transformed, can host up to 70 guests or delegates and is perfect for events such as charity lunches or larger meetings.

Since launching, the new-look Mytton Fold has hosted numerous dream weddings for happy couples, who have enthusiastically complimented the efficient and dedicated wedding team.

Many couples seeking the perfect wedding venue, fell in love with Mytton Fold the first time they visited, being impressed with the beautiful spaces, the well-manicured grounds and the delightful wedding menu options. They also appreciated that each wedding is totally tailored to their individual needs making their wedding day a memory to treasure!

Outside at Mytton Fold the wedding party has the use of private gardens and landscaped grounds – a venue that is simply perfect.

So, if you are planning a celebration or are looking for a venue for corporate use, contact Mytton Fold. The team will be happy to show you how this Ribble Valley venue has been totally transformed – you will be completely smitten with Mytton! n

Mytton Fold

Whalley

EDUCATION

ROYAL TRIBUTE

Students from Blackburn College of Art and Design paid tribute to the Queen during a visit to see a tapestry that was commissioned for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. The special event at Blackburn Cathedral was run by Blackburn College lecturer Jamie Holman, who created the artwork which is titled The Lancashire Tapestry. The piece is thought to be one of the last pieces of art commissioned with a royal sign-off by the Queen. Students asked Jamie questions about how the commission came about, and the processes he went through to create it.

CYCLE CHALLENGE

During the holidays a group of Oakhill pupils, staff and parents headed to Llandegla in North Wales for a day of mountain biking. Pupils enjoyed the single track forest trails, with some challenging climbs, excellent swooping descents and technical challenges.  They developed their skills throughout the day and confidently took on two loops of the red route.

HIGHEST LEVEL

GCSE results may have fallen nationally but at Oakhill the opposite is true. Nearly a quarter of all the exams taken by this year’s students received the highest grade of 9, awarded to a very small minority of pupils in the country for exceptional performance. An astonishing 93 per cent of students received a 7, 8 or 9 in their GCSEs which would be equivalent to an A, A* or A** and this places Oakhill students very much at the highest level both locally and nationally.

WORLD EXPLORERS

Westholme students experienced an unforgettable trip to Cambodia and Vietnam this summer. The expedition included a four-day trek through jungle in Vietnam, a visit to the Killing Fields in Cambodia to reflect on the atrocities of the civil war, the capital city of Phnom Penh and Angkor Wat, and the spectacular temple complex built in the early 12th century. Students immersed themselves into Cambodian culture and delivered community projects including helping with improvement works at a school and working on a farm. Students returned home enriched by their experiences with memories to last a lifetime.

UNIVERSITY CENTRE

Students and staff at the University Centre at Blackburn College are celebrating after it was given the highest overall student satisfaction rating in the North West in the National Student Survey (NSS). The survey found that 84 per cent of students were satisfied with the quality of their course, which exceeds the national average satisfaction of 77 per cent.

EARLY EDUCATION FUNDING

Stonyhurst is delighted to announce that their outstanding Pre-Prep is now offering 15 hours of Early Education Funding from September 2022. Families can claim up to 15 hours of childcare per week, from the term after a child turns three until the term their child turns five, through the government scheme. Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall Pre-Prep also accepts childcare vouchers and Tax-Free Childcare. For more information about Stonyhurst’s Early Years Provision, please contact their admissions team: smhadmissions@stonyhurst.ac.uk

EDUCATION

OUTSTANDING STUDENTS

Nelson and Colne College held its Outstanding Achievement Awards. The evening celebrated the hardest working and highest achieving students leaving Nelson and Colne College this summer. This year saw the ceremony return in style, with the venue upgraded to a beautifully decorated marquee, reflecting the incredible achievements of these young people.

Twenty of the Pendle-based college’s finest were recognised and rewarded for their hard work and determination over the last two

years, with awards covering A Level, T Level and Advanced Vocational studies.

One of the evening’s awards, the Robert Fort Prize for the highest achieving A Level Student of the Year was handed over by Robert Fort himself to Oliver Cordeaux.

Oliver received £1000 in conjunction with the Robert Fort Prize, not only for his incredibly impressive grades – he received an A* in Computer Science, an A in Further Maths and an A in Physics – but also for his progress, character and his contribution to college life.

WOODLAND TRUST

AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

Exceptional Burnley College Sixth Form Centre students, who smashed their exams and achieved record-breaking results in A Levels and Advanced Vocational courses have been honoured at a lavish annual Awards for Excellence ceremony. The students celebrated their outstanding accomplishments with more

than 170 family, friends, tutors and special guests who gathered at the glittering event hosted in the newly re-designed atrium at the college’s £110 million town centre campus. The achievements come as students returned to formal exam conditions and saw Burnley College Sixth Form Centre mark a recordbreaking year for success, which saw double the number of A* and A grades in A Level examinations since 2019. Burnley College Sixth Form Centre A Level alumnus and previous Award for Excellence winner Oscar Duck was guest speaker. Oscar is now making his name nationally as an acclaimed and highly-skilled blacksmith creating masterpieces in his Ribble Valley forge. Oscar travelled the world, including spending a year in New Zealand working with an expert blacksmith after excelling in his A Level studies at Burnley College, achieving A*A*AA, and now supports A Level students in product design alongside the centre’s tutors.

The Woodland Trust has ambitious plans to break its record annual giveaway of more than 1.3m free trees to schools and community groups as the next round of tree-pack applications opens. Almost 9,000 schools and community groups benefited from the UK’s largest woodland conservation charity’s ever-popular scheme in 2022. Applications for trees to be delivered in spring 2023 are now open and Woodland Trust senior project lead Vicki Baddeley hopes even more schools and groups will take up the offer of free saplings and get planting in the coming year.

She said: “This year our communities have really felt the impact of climate change first hand, and many are seeing the incredible benefits trees can bring to provide much needed shade, shelter, and help to prevent flooding.

“By offering the free packs we aim to equip our schools and communities with a simple yet mighty tool to combat the effects of climate change, as well as provide ever more vital food and habitats for local wildlife.”

Colne College and was attended by representatives from state and independent primary and secondary schools across the whole of the region.

Oakhill students and school were in the fortunate position of being selected as finalists in four of categories.

Year 10 pupil Finlay Hall reached the final in the Secondary Pupil of the Year category for his amazing work representing the school in so many different sports and activities and also for his fundraising through his 100-mile bike ride for Pendleside Hospice.

Oakhill’s tireless Parents’ Association leader Louise Brett reached the final in the Unsung Hero Award, which recognises all the hours she gives voluntarily to help the school.

Year 8 pupil Joel Bradshaw was a finalist

CELEBRATIONS ALL ROUND…

Oakhill students have returned to school after a summer of celebrations. While GCSE results fell nationally, at Oakhill the opposite was true, with students receiving significantly better results than in previous years.

Nearly a quarter of all the exams taken by Oakhill students received the highest grade of 9, awarded to a very small minority of pupils in the country for exceptional performance. In significant contrast to nationwide results where a 9 was awarded in only six per cent of cases. An astonishing 93 per cent of Oakhill students received a 7, 8 or 9 in their GCSEs, which would be equivalent to an A, A* or A** and this places the Whalley-based school very much at the highest level both locally and nationally.

Earlier this year, students completed the first summer exams after two years of cancellations. Although in the vast majority of schools, students failed to match the teacher assessed grades of the last two years, at Oakhill they exceeded them.

In addition to the exceptional performances at the highest levels, the results overall show students of all abilities have received grades either one, two or three levels above what they were predicted to achieve in nearly all examinations.

Oakhill Principal Jane Buttery said: “We are absolutely delighted with the students’

results. Despite all the challenges we have faced, we have maintained a high standard of teaching throughout and together with our pupils’ tremendous hard work and positive attitude, this has meant that they have received outstanding results at every level and can now go on in every case to their first choice of sixth form college.”

in the Technology and Innovation category for his remarkable scale Lego building of the school, built as part of the Year 8 challenge.

Oakhill was also thrilled to be selected as finalists in one of the most prestigious categories of Secondary School of the Year.

Reaching the finals was a huge achievement as it recognised the outstanding work done by everyone at Oakhill.

However, the icing on the cake was the announcement that Joel Bradshaw was announced overall winner in the Technology and Innovation category and Oakhill was declared the region’s 2022 Secondary School of the Year! n

Another cause for summer celebrations at Oakhill was their success at this year’s East Lancashire Education Awards. The awards ceremony was held at Nelson and

Regional awards and outstanding GCSE results has meant that Oakhill in Whalley has plenty of reasons to celebrate

PUPILS’ TREMENDOUS HARD WORK AND POSITIVE ATTITUDE HAS MEANT THAT THEY HAVE RECEIVED OUTSTANDING RESULTS AT EVERY LEVEL

St Pius X Preparatory School

boys & girls aged 2 – 11 years

Wellbeing is at the heart of a dynamic curriculum filled with challenge and opportunity. Over 6 acres of safe, secure grounds. This is a great place to grow: give your child the best start in life.

AS FOLLOWS:

Saturday 1st October 9.00am - 1.30pm

Tuesday 8th November 9.30am - 12.30pm

fun, focus and

thrilled with how our students have performed in this year’s exams, especially as this cohort did not sit their GCSEs due to lockdown, making this success even more impressive. Additionally, we celebrate this outstanding attainment against a national backdrop of reduced top grades and a return to pre-pandemic levels.”

STUDENTS DON’T HAVE TO TRADE ACADEMIA FOR EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITY. WESTHOLME GIVES EACH STUDENT THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS AND THIS IS A REAL RARITY

Alongside this, there is huge disparity between the highest GCSE results achieved by students in London compared to those in the North. Again, Westholme completely bucks this trend with its grades.

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

Combining formal learning with extra-curricular activities, gives Westholme students a rare opportunity to enjoy the best of both worlds

Westholme are once again celebrating their incredible academic success, consolidating their position as the highest achieving school in Lancashire with 67 per cent grade As and A*s at A Level.

It’s much more than just an academic triumph for the school though, as Westholme Principal, Dr Richard Robson explains: “The reason our students achieve so highly is because it is nestled in our philosophy. Students don’t have to trade academia for extra-curricular activity. Westholme gives each student the best of both worlds and this is a real rarity, which we believe you won’t get anywhere else.”

Unlike many schools, Westholme provides a holistic journey with students undertaking a range of core academic subjects alongside a vast range of extra-curricular activities. The academic hard work is completely normalised so the majority of students don’t realise the high level they’re working at on a consistent basis. Instead, they just take it in their stride along with their additional

hobbies and interests. The continuous guidance and support provided by the teaching staff ensures the students are well prepared reducing the huge stress and anxiety often experienced by those undertaking external exams.

Dr Robson continues: “For the second year in a row, A Level records have been smashed with a quarter of all students gaining at least one A* grade. We are

The INSPIRED students are looking forward to pursuing a wide range of further studies in subjects such as Biology at Oxford, Environmental Geoscience, Economics, Ethics, Philosophy and Religion along with Drama and Musical Theatre, which clearly reflects the breadth of talent within Westholme’s INSPIRED Sixth Form.

Nearly all students are walking straight into their first choice, with many looking

Hannah Forbes was delighted to achieve A* in Economics, A* in History, A* in EPQ and an A in Mathematics. Hannah is on her way to securing a dream career in finance and will be undertaking a BSc (Hons) in Economics at Lancaster University.

Ben Middleton achieved A* in Drama and Bs in English Literature and Music. Ben will be studying for a BA (Hons) Theatre Direction, Writing and Performance at the University of York.

forward to attending Russell Group universities. Their holistic journey through the INSPIRED Sixth Form has prepared them for the next chapter in their lives as well-rounded young people fully prepared with essential 21st century skills. The GCSE results were equally remarkable with 81 per cent at Grade 7s (As) and above, a phenomenal achievement right across the whole year group.

Dr Robson explains: “I am so proud of each and every student, how they have navigated the consequences of the pandemic and applied themselves so diligently to prepare for public examinations.”

Most Year 11s will progress straight into Westholme’s INSPIRED Sixth Form and will certainly make the most of Westholme’s incredible A Level provision which offers unrivalled holistic excellence including the bespoke leadership programmes, entrepreneurial opportunities and so much more.

“We are proud to offer a different approach where academic success is just one outcome of many. This is clearly favoured by our parents,” says Dr Robson.

grateful for the support I have received over the years.”

• Head Boy and aspiring screenwriter Ben Middleton has secured an exciting new chapter by achieving a place to study BA (Hons) Theatre Direction, Script Writing and Performance at the University of York. Ben achieved A* in Drama and Bs in English Literature and Music and has big plans to challenge societal issues such as racism and gender discrimination through a career as a professional screenwriter.

• Charlie Moore received three 9s, five 8s, a 6 and a 5. He’s very proud of his double 9s in Combined Science –exceeding his own expectations and predicted grades. In his spare time, Charlie plays for Adlington Football Club and Astley and Buckshaw and is keeping his future career options open.

Dr Robson adds: “Westholme featured recently in the national press. An article in The Times reflected the value for money Westholme represents.”

Westholme parents who were interviewed for the article commented: “The school looks at children holistically and tries to find out what they are good at and push the boat out in that area. They are just as enthusiastic about hockey and cooking as they are about the academics.”

Here are a random selection of a few achievements from Westholme’s impressive A Level and GCSE students:

• Hannah Forbes was delighted to achieve 3A*s in Economics, History and in EPQ along with an A in Mathematics. She is on her way to securing a dream career in finance and is looking forward to starting a BSc (Hons) in Economics at Lancaster University. Hannah says: “Support from my teachers and the small class sizes have allowed me to flourish. I am so

Dr Robson concludes: “With a quarter of our amazing A Level students taking away a clean sweep of all A*/As at A Level, all the endeavour and hard work amidst a turbulent period, has really paid off –we could not be more proud of our class of 2022. Well done to all!” n

Westholme School Wilmar Lodge, Meins Road Blackburn BB2 6QU 01254 506070

Katie Backhouse excelled in her A Levels by achieving 4 As and looks forward to studying a BA (Hons) in Ethics, Philosophy and Religion at the University of Leeds.

Ben Dang achieved

his

Freya Milligan is thrilled to have achieved six 9s, three 8s

her GCSEs. Freya achieved GCSEs in Computer

Spanish, Art, History, English Literature

Language, Maths, Biology, Physics

Freya is continuing her education

INSPIRED

Ontario in Canada is considered to be one of the top global destinations in the mineral exploration sector. Specifically, the Hemlo ‘camp’ is a proven world class location for gold and base metal exploration. This geological terrain has a large number of ongoing exploration projects, among them is First Class Metals that owns seven areas covering 180km2

A banker for three decades, James Knowles began his career at Barclays in Clitheroe and stayed with the bank until leaving in 2021 to work full time for First Class Metals, a company that was formally

Ribble Valley-based James Knowles is executive chairman of First Class Metals, a company that focuses on the exploration for precious and base metals in Ontario, Canada. Photography: Kirsten Platt

founded earlier this year by James and business partner Ayub Bodi.

“I had a long-standing interest in investing in UK small cap resource explorers with operations like FCM from when a colleague introduced me to the way the markets worked in the mid 1990’s,” recalls James.

“This interest developed into a successful series of investments over the coming years and a good understanding of the operations of metal exploration projects.”

During his time working for Barclays in Preston, James met Ayub, whose business connected owners of oil, gas and metal exploration properties to buyers. The pair

kept in touch over the years and as James explains, they had many conversations about procuring land for exploration: “During lockdowns we discussed how, with reasonable levels of research, you could start to create a portfolio of physical mineral leases or outright ownership.”

James and Ayub decided to create a partnership and set about acquiring land that was prospective for metal exploration.

“The main criteria we had was the land had to be in a safe jurisdiction – one which gave you security of tenure within a proven well-established legal system.”

After reviewing many areas across Europe and the Americas they homed in to Canada with a particular liking for Ontario.

“Ayub’s industry contacts got us in touch with several local industry players and with their help we acquired our first small ‘property’ in January 2021 which was about 7km2 in size and located about 20km north of the world mining giant, Barrick’s Hemlo Williams gold mine,” explains James.

With the company now formed, the partners were keen to grow it and acquired further land in the wider area known as the Schreiber-Hemlo Greenstone Belt.

It was around this time that James would need to quit his job with Barclays to focus on FCM with the aim of getting the company listed so they could raise the funds needed to develop their exploration projects.

“At that stage we had invested a substantial amount of our own personal funds but exploration for metals is an expensive game, and we needed funds to see the true potential of FCM.”

In the interim Palladium One Inc, which owned property neighbouring the small piece of land FCM had first acquired, had started to drill and subsequently hit a high-grade nickel deposit around 20km east of FCM’s location.

“There was a lot of industry interest in the area and a staking rush ensued which resulted in all the vacant land around us being acquired by others.

“Palladium One Inc approached us to acquire a working interest into the very first property we claimed. This was a big event for us – even though it was only a small piece of a large land-holding, it validated our model.”

Alongside the progress on the ground, the partners needed to get FCM, which was still a private entity, fit for listing in London.

It was at this stage FCM brought eminent geologist Marc Sale on board. He had a background in metal exploration

that had taken him from the gold fields of Western Australia to far out outposts in Papua New Guinea.

“Marc fitted well into our dynamic, he had the field experience and importantly, boardroom experience so we approached him to be our CEO to lead the company forward into a listed PLC.”

In September 2021 FCM completed a major deal buying a UK-listed metal exploration company’s assets in Ontario for £1m giving FCM the 180km2 land holding it has today. Later in 2021 FCM funded the process of listing the company and starting exploration work in Canada.

“This is when Marc came into his own, he had worked in Ontario for many years for an exploration company that had found significant gold and nickel deposits in the area. This background allowed him to quickly set up our operations onsite.”

With FCM now a public listed entity on the London Stock Exchange, shares trade under LSE: FCM and James’ position as executive chairman involves the monitoring of all financial drivers and investor relations: “I have the opportunity to visit the properties in Canada but my main focus is the UK operations.

“We have been busy on the ground in Ontario and have had field crews working on six of our seven properties since early May.

“Our main focus is currently on the joint venture we hold at West Pickle Lake –our partner Palladium One is drilling that property now, extracting core samples of bedrock up to hundreds of metres below the ground. The visual examination of these cores is highly encouraging – they appear rich in massive and semi massive sulphides which is the material that we hope will hold the nickel and copper.

“Exploration is a high-risk business and comes with no guarantees but with the right approach and hunting in the right places we will do all we can to find these deposits.” n

EXPLORATION IS A HIGH-RISK BUSINESS AND COMES WITH NO GUARANTEES BUT WITH THE RIGHT APPROACH AND HUNTING IN THE RIGHT PLACES WE WILL DO ALL WE CAN TO FIND THESE DEPOSITS

BUSINESS MATTERS

PHASE TWO COMPLETE

Over the last few years Bashall wedding venue has seen the exciting addition of an outdoor ceremony area, state-of-the-art upgrades to the sound and lighting along with a new and improved dance floor area. With the continued investment, Bashall is delighted to announce that Phase 2 of their brand new guest accommodation is now complete and are excited to be able to offer a mix of double and family rooms, all with en-suite facilities, which are perfect for wedding guests. If you would like to know more, please visit: bashallbarn.co.uk

TALENTED CHEF

Restaurant Metamorphica has employed a unique approach to opening an independent restaurant. The dining area and open kitchen, which comprises a four-seat Chef’s Table has all been built by the chef patron, Steven Halligan, who has won multiple honours in regional and national chef competitions in his career so far. The food served is best described as Modern British and the menu includes approximately 11 courses, all made up of ingredients seasonally available on any particular week. restaurantmetamorphica.co.uk

DUCKPIN LAUNCH

Holmes Mill in Clitheroe recently launched a brand-new duckpin bowling alley – Boiler House Bowling. Boiler House Bowling is home to Lancashire’s first-ever duckpin bowling alley. The new attraction, based in the old Boiler House, includes four duckpin bowling lanes – similar to tenpin bowling but the pins and bowling balls are smaller, the lanes are shorter, and there are lots of different games available to play. Better still, there are no bowling shoes required for duckpin bowling making it perfect for girls’ night, date night, kid’s parties and everything in between.

BIBA BEST BUSINESS

Clitheroe-based James’ Places, a luxury, boutique hotel and wedding venue operator, took home the trophy at this year’s Be Inspired Business Awards (BIBAs) for Most Resilient Business. The awards, the biggest in Lancashire and organised by the North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, took place at the Tower Ballroom in Blackpool. Over 498 applications were submitted to this year’s awards by 271 businesses.

Mike Auld, Operations Director of James’ Places, commented: “We are absolutely delighted to have taken a trophy home at this year’s BIBAs. The hospitality industry has been hugely impacted so we are extremely grateful to have been recognised for our resilience during this time. This is a huge testament to our fantastic team who are at the centre of our success.”

GOING FOR GOLD

For the Southport Flower Show, Holden Clough’s show team led by John Foley, Kate Foley, Alli Croft and Jane Coultherd created a Quintessential English Courtyard that captured the perfectly-curated wildness of flowers that have become the Holden Clough house style. Planted in a way that allowed the scheme to come together as a blend of texture and colour, it is the ninth consecutive year that Holden Clough has won Gold at the show with ambitions to make it 10 next year.

John Foley said: “To receive a gold medal the first year back fills us with joy and gives recognition to our team that works so hard to tend to every detail that has carried us over the line to win.”

The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in the thriving Ribble Valley, where business always matters

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

experience from Raymond James and our desire to work with those who are serious about their financial future.

We’d like to tell you about Matthew, a recently qualified accountant who has only just starting to reap the rewards of his studies. Matthew has only worked for one company so far and is contributing to a pension scheme. A career move postqualification is likely. Matthew’s immediate priority is to move out of his rented accommodation and buy his own home.

NEW INVESTMENT SERVICES BUSINESS…

Two10 Investments Services has been launched in the Ribble Valley, opening up the opportunity to enjoy professional financial advice, previously out of reach

At a time when many will be worried what their financial future holds, the experienced team at Raymond James Ribble Valley (RJRV) Has launched a new investment services business, separate from RJRV itself, opening the possibility of professional financial management to an even broader range of clients.

However, is this the right time for individuals to be considering investments when many are concerned about inflation, the rising cost of living and increasing energy bills? A global crisis or economic recession can mean heightened uncertainty and volatility in investment markets. Wild swings may seem worrisome, even scary, but turmoil also creates opportunity. The answer, as always, is understanding what you are trying to achieve, and this is where

the new Ribble Valley business can help.

So, what is the new business? Two10 Investment Services is a high quality, cost effective financial solution for those people who may until now have fallen short of the investment criteria required to achieve personalised, face-to-face investment advice or those individuals for whom the cost of high-quality advice was prohibitive in respect of their investments at that point.

Two10 is directly authorised by the FCA and completely independent. You could be a young professional just starting on your financial journey, a mid-lifer whose wealth is distributed across a range of investments or someone older who wants to protect their wealth in retirement and provide an income from it. Two10 is not just an algorithm, although it does have top-end technology – it is a service borne of our

Matthew’s investment timeframe is long as his career stretches before him and this allows him to have a higher than average tolerance to risk. By meeting with Matthew, the vibrant team at Two10 Investment Services was able to quantify the value of Matthew’s existing financial portfolio (in essence the sum of his savings, investments and pension) and just as importantly agree what proportion of his income, newly enhanced by qualification, could be put towards achieving his property goal. Two10’s cost effective structure means that Matthew’s relatively small portfolio will not be consumed by service charges in its important growth phase.

Over the coming months we’ll share the stories of some other clients we’re delighted to be helping. In the meantime, are you in the same position as Matthew or know somebody who is? If so, why not get in touch and arrange an initial consultation and enjoy a coffee with our great team. n

Two10 Investment Services Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England and Wales, No. 13010014.

Risk warnings: With investing, your capital is at risk.

Two10 Investment Services Ltd

Berry Lane, Longridge

PR3

970470 info@two10investmentservices.co.uk

IT IS A SERVICE BORNE OF OUR EXPERIENCE AND OUR DESIRE TO WORK WITH THOSE WHO ARE SERIOUS ABOUT THEIR FINANCIAL FUTURE

Final

and

Tests

Albert

LONGRIDGE & LONGEVITY

Back in the day, the mantra for school leavers was either ‘get yourself a profession’ or ‘find yourself a trade’. It is still sound advice, but one occupation where such longevity is almost as rare as a Platinum Jubilee is football management. Unless your name is Ferguson or Wenger or more locally Dyche or Coleman, two-and-a-half years is par for the course. In simple terms, you just cannot put down your roots and look ahead to retirement.

There are exceptions of course and on the west side of the busy market town of Longridge, you will find the Recycling Lives Football Ground. There, the manager of Longridge Town for the last eight years is Lee Ashcroft, brought up locally in Goosnargh. He was an exciting attacking player in the nineties at Preston North End over two stints, then at West Brom and Grimsby Town before completing his Football League journey at Wigan Athletic.

LEE ASHCROFT WAS AN EXCITING ATTACKING PLAYER IN THE NINETIES AT PRESTON NORTH END OVER TWO STINTS

Lee, recalling his time at Deepdale, says: “I loved playing for Les Chapman but as soon as John Beck arrived, I knew my time was limited at PNE.”

Disagreeing with Beck’s style, he counters: “I suppose I could flare up quickly and could be quite vocal. He wanted us to play football in a way that none of us could really understand. At the end of the season, I’d had enough and when West Brom came in, I was off like a shot.”

In the late 20th century, the population of Longridge had passed the 7,000 mark, but its two football teams, Longridge St Wilfrids and Longridge United were playing ‘parks’ football in the Preston and District League. In 1996 however, the clubs amalgamated. The newly formed Longridge Town finally gained promotion into the West Lancashire League, but further progress was slow until Lee Ashcroft arrived in the summer of 2014.

Having cut his managerial teeth at Kendal Town and Northwich Victoria, he was appointed at Longridge where success quickly followed. Promotion to the North West Counties Division 1 stalled until ground work was carried out to meet the League’s criteria, but they moved to the tenth tier of English football in 2018.

Sports enthusiast Michael Hodkinson talks to Lee Ashcroft, the manager of Longridge Town FC, whose sights are firmly set on promotion

Success was instantaneous, scoring 144 league goals as they gained promotion to the NWC Premier League. In the mix there for yet another promotion, Covid struck and the league was aborted. They had reached the fifth round of the FA Vase (last 16) and they won through four rounds of the FA Cup the following campaign. They were chosen to play at the same level as Clitheroe, but Lee explains why this didn’t happen: “There was a big shake up in the non-league world and we were offered a place in the Northern Premier League West, but we sensibly had to turn it down because we would have had to spend money we didn’t have to meet Tier 8 criteria.”

The ground is lovely, a pitch like a bowling green, a view to die for and spotlessly clean changing facilities, comfortably

large enough to house the extra substitutes used in the modern game. And this club has ambition.

semi-professionals and ultimately gain further promotion.

Longridge Town, a club run exclusively by volunteers, has the needs of the community at heart. Tragically, a recent ex-player, George Melling, lost his life to Motor Neurone Disease. He was in his late thirties and a trust has been set up in his name to raise funds to help combat this illness – one which the club backs to the hilt.

Secretary Lorraine Harrison, Commercial Manager Joanne Cummings and Lee Ashcroft himself all have a desire to find extra investment, make the necessary ground improvements, continue with their policy of blooding youngsters from the junior set-up to add to the existing senior

They are also involved with Recycling Lives, a national firm but based locally. It is a waste management and recycling company working hard to attain social sustainability, provide a cleaner and healthier environment and offer support to charities. They sponsor the ‘Ridge’ in return for the stadium name and both the company and the club continue to work together to help the local community.

As Lee says: “Successful teams at this level are the ones that pay most. Our priority is to search for further advertisers and sponsors and boost the current average attendance. Producing quality young players helps us when we sell them on and one of our recent players, George Thomason, now has a regular spot in the Bolton Wanderers League 1 side.”

We watch the progress of Lee and his Longridge Town boys this season with interest. n

SUCCESSFUL TEAMS AT THIS LEVEL ARE THE ONES THAT PAY MOST. OUR PRIORITY IS TO SEARCH FOR FURTHER ADVERTISERS AND SPONSORS AND BOOST THE CURRENT AVERAGE ATTENDANCE

SECRET RECIPE

Taking on a respected century-old business could be daunting for some, but young craft baker Callum Robertson has risen to the challenge and achieved his dream.

Callum, who attended Ribblesdale High School in Clitheroe, and his wife Gina took over Stables Pies two years ago and have maintained and strengthened the brand, which was originally founded in Keighley, Yorkshire, in 1920.

Inheriting secret recipes and the traditional methods used over the years, Callum has established Stables as one of the most popular wholesale bakeries in the region.

“At the moment it’s the original range of pies that are all great quality and we have used the same butchers that have supplied meat for Stables Pies for years. Before we bought Stables we did a lot of research and we knew for sure that it was an established producer of really popular, hand-crafted products that came out of a wholesale, little bakery,” adds Callum, who distributes Stables Pies throughout the Ribble Valley, Keighley and beyond to shops, delis and cafes. Confirming and consolidating the excellent quality, a number of North West leading football clubs have also adopted the brand – one Premier League club in particular has 3,000 Stables pies delivered for fans each match day.

original pork pie, which is instantly recognisable by the diamond shape cut in the pastry top.

By 5am the pies are baked and ready to be dispatched and that signals the arrival of the delivery teams who cover the Ribble Valley and surrounding towns, Skipton and Keighley.

While the first two years at the helm of Stables Pies have exceeded their dreams, Callum and Gina are hoping to progress the business forwards.

Still keeping the traditional, unchanged savoury range their ambition is to develop recipes for a small number of sweet pies –by popular request.

“People keep asking us for sweet pies so we’re thinking of a classic blueberry pie and a traditional apple pie – possibly with a little twist – maybe a hint of ginger in the pastry. It will be very subtle. We will

A KEIGHLEY SPICE MERCHANT MAKES UP A SECRET MIX FOR STABLES’ IMMENSELY POPULAR PORK PIE, WHICH IS INSTANTLY RECOGNISABLE BY THE DIAMOND SHAPE CUT INTO THE PASTRY TOP

Based in Barrow just outside Whalley, dad-of-three Callum learnt his trade at Woods Craft Bakery in Brownhill while studying for NVQ Level 3 at Blackpool and Fylde College: “I learnt everything at Woods,” recalls, Callum who worked there for 10 years, during which time he and Gina had their first child.

Callum went on to work as bakery manager at Keelham’s Farm shop in Skipton and then progressed to Galloways in Wigan where he was in charge of a team of 60.

“My dream has always been to work for myself so when we saw that Stables was up for sale, we thought, ‘Why not?’”

Conveniently Stables had already brought the brand over the border to the Ribble Valley, working from a bakery unit where operatives hand-make the pies during the day and bake them in the early hours of the morning ready for delivery.

“We haven’t changed a thing – the recipes, the equipment, the methods –we didn’t need to as the pies already had a terrific reputation,” explains Callum.

“We are really happy with the way it is going. We are also currently in talks with Blackburn Rovers too, so we’re really moving things along.”

While supplying pies to prestigious events and world-renowned football clubs is a great calling card for Stables, the really hard work goes on behind the scenes: “My alarm goes off at 1am in the morning and I get into work at 2am,” says Callum.

The early morning arrival of the bakery team heralds the ovens being fired up in readiness to bake off up to 3,000 pies that have been prepared the day before.

“The pies we produce are hand-made to a specific secret recipe that hasn’t changed for decades, that’s why we have kept many of the old customers and made plenty of new ones too,” says Callum, who reveals that a Keighley spice merchant makes up a secret mix for Stables’ immensely popular

be experimenting after working hours but it’s not something imminent, we’re probably talking 2023 developing the sweet side.”

Looking ahead, Callum and Gina continue to utilise social media platforms to promote the business and keep followers up to date on recent developments and with Christmas on the horizon, Stables Pies look set for a busy time: “We will be ramping up production in the run up to Christmas. We usually hand make around 6,000 or 7,000 pies the day before Christmas Eve in readiness for distribution – so not much sleep that night!” laughs Callum.

“So, at the moment it’s all good – we’re enjoying it and we look forward to moving the business forward.” n

01254 492989 stablespiesltd.co.uk

Craft baker Callum Robertson and his wife Gina took over Stables Pies two years ago –and have truly discovered the recipe for success

THE PIES ARE HAND-MADE TO A SPECIFIC SECRET RECIPE THAT HASN’T CHANGED FOR DECADES

Christmas at

The Seasonal Christmas Lunch Menu

Northcote at Christmas is always a special time. If there is one time of year when you should give into temptation, it has to be Christmas.

A time to indulge in stunning food, celebrating with fine wine and a little extra “Christmas spirit”. So reserve your table for lunch and let the Northcote team spoil you!

Seasonal Dishes to Begin or Add as a Middle Course £9.75

RED LEG PARTRIDGE

Cultured Yoghurt, Mango, Curry

JERUSALEM ARTICHOKE CAPPUCCINO

Cheese and Truffle “Toast”

Seasonal Main Courses £29.50

MEAD GLAZED VENISON CUSHION

Mulled Beets, Celeriac, Rosemary “Game Chips”

COD “CULLEN SKINK” Smoked Potato, Sweet Onions, Kale

Seasonal Desserts £9.75

BLACK FOREST GÂTEAUX

Steeped Cherries, Almond

CLEMENTINE BRÛLÉE

Salted Walnuts, Toffee, Chocolate Ice cream

WOOD FIRED CARROTS

Toasted Chestnuts, Crispy Sprouts, Curd, Carrot Top Pesto

AGED MISO BEEF CARPACCIO

Winter Mushroom, Pickled Kohlrabi, Dashi Dressing

SAGE ROASTED GUINEA HEN

“Pig in Blanket”, Parsnip, Quince

PILLOW OF WHITE ROOTS Tunworth, Thyme, Cranberry

“MILLE FEUILLE” Whipped Vanilla, Tropical Fruit

A SELECTION OF CHEESES FROM THE COURTYARD DAIRY Served with Peter’s Yard Crackers & Homemade Bread

Available from Wednesday 30th November – Friday 23rd December, served 12noon – 2pm. Please note Northcote is closed on a Monday & Tuesday

The Chef’s Table at Christmas

Looking to impress? The Chef’s Table is your perfect solution. Sophisticated festive dining in the heart of the kitchen, for up to 16 guests, available lunch and dinner.

/ Witness all the action in the kitchen through sliding glass doors

/ The Head Chef and brigade will bring you your chosen festive dishes

/ The Sommelier will guide you through your wine choices

Northcote Road, Langho, Blackburn, Lancashire BB6 8BE Telephone: 01254 240 555 | www.northcote.com @northcoteuk

EXCEPTIONAL AUTUMN MENU

As the seasons change, there’s no better place to be than by a roaring fire at the Black Bull, writes Tedd Walmsley .

Photography: Kirsten Platt

Irecently met with the effervescent Becky Govier for our monthly catch up on a warm September morning and enjoyed the incredible outside space at the Black Bull at Old Langho. This space continues to be used as part of their overall dining experience with their new authentic pizza oven taking pride of place offering delicious pizza to enjoy on-site or at home.

We were joined mid-conversation by the Black Bull’s passionate and enthusiastic chef Callum, who was putting the final touches to a superb set of new autumn dishes soon to be added to the already comprehensive menu. We often associate the Black Bull with exceptional Sunday lunches, pub classics, doorstep sandwiches and of course all their al fresco options but we mustn’t forget that Callum has a burgeoning reputation for cooking top of the range dishes with flair and aplomb.

Two or three of the new dishes really stood out for me. Imagine the pub on a cold autum evening with roaring fires

and a bottle of fine red wine, a venison Wellington perfectly cooked with buttery flaky pastry and succulent tender venison, served with a confit onion, boulangere potatoes with pancetta and seasonal vegetables. There’s also market fish locally sourced and paired with new potatoes and a pea puree. Saffron risotto cooked to order

to celebrate knowing that their every need will be taken care of. There has also been an increasing number of enquiries for wakes and, without putting too fine a point on it, The Bull would give anyone the best send off possible. Private dining options, buffets and bespoke menus are only a phone call away.

People often ask me when is the best time to visit the Black Bull and I guess the answer depends on what you want to achieve. We were recently there on a Saturday night with friends – it was bustling, busy and had a great atmosphere – Sunday lunch will always be epic and of course mid-week offers a more relaxed experience. You must remember that seven-day dining options are a rarity in the Ribble Valley and Becky and Jamie are still keen to offer this.

As I leave Becky to organise and supervise another busy service, I have only admiration for what they have achieved. They are proof that hard work, energy and enthusiasm really does pay off. n

with pepper, peas and sun dried tomatoes –an exceptional vegetarian option or perhaps loaded with a delicious piece of sea bass –these new menu items will be available from mid-October to tempt you further.

Our second interruption was an incoming enquiry by phone for a special birthday celebration and a large party of guests. The Bull has now got a fine reputation for those special events for anyone wanting

The Black Bull Old Langho Road, Old Langho BB6

01254 248801

enquiries@theblackbulloldlangho.co.uk theblackbulloldlangho.co.uk

IMAGINE THE PUB ON A COLD AUTUM EVENING WITH ROARING FIRES AND A BOTTLE OF FINE RED WINE, A VENISON WELLINGTON PERFECTLY COOKED WITH BUTTERY FLAKY PASTRY

SLOW COOKER CHIPOTLE SAUSAGE CHILLI

Tasty and warming, this slow-cooked casserole will be ready and waiting for when you get home

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 8 hours

Serves: 4

Method: Brown the sausages under the grill or in a frying pan to give them some colour, as they won’t get any in the slow cooker. Place all of the ingredients into the slow cooker and cook for eight hours on the low setting or four hours on the high setting for a faster cooking time.

Slice the sausages, then serve with rice, sour cream and a sprinkling of chopped chillies and coriander. n

Chef’s tip: Any sausages will work for this.

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil

8 Booths chipotle sausages

1 apple, chopped

1 red onion, diced

2 carrots, diced

2 celery sticks, sliced

1 tsp chilli powder

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp cumin powder

1 tsp ground coriander

400g chopped tomatoes

1 tin cannellini beans

1 tin kidney beans

1 pepper, diced Recipe courtesy of Booths booths.co.uk

A FABULOUS FOOD EXPERIENCE

Tedd and Liz Walmsley and friends sample the stunning new menu at the Clifton Arms in Lytham. Photography: Roger Moore

Rather than battening down the hatches during enforced lockdown closures, the family-owned Clifton Arms saw an opportunity to embark on an impressive programme of improvements – exterior landscaping and the creation of the drinks terrace. Inside it’s a similar story, with the re-modelling of the bar and public areas and with The Brasserie complete, the refurbishment programme is ongoing across the rest of the hotel.

Whilst this work continues, there’s also been lots going on behind the scenes in the kitchen with head chef Scott Anderson and his team working on an impressive new brasserie menu offering all-day dining.

Joined by good friends Carl and Trina, we were lucky to sample a wide range of new dishes at a recent launch. Well thought through, the menu comprises everything from light bites through to a substantial meal.

Our selection of starters included crispy squid and sweet chilli sauce, king prawns in chilli lemon and garlic butter and a moreish lamb kofta. A creamy dish of gorgonzola mushrooms with basil oil and parmesan crisp was simply delicious – quite a statement for someone who doesn’t generally eat mushrooms. Sharing a selection of starters was great as we all got to sample each dish –there was a debate over who was having the last king prawn, but it ended well.

vegetarian and vegan diners with a selection of delicious and varied choices. I managed to secure the superfood salad – a substantial meal in itself, though I was told by Carl that the vegan sweet potato and spinach curry was particularly tasty.

Portion sizes were generous too, Trina’s hake fillet was impressive and if you’re extra hungry there’s a choice of additional sides available – although, I was pleased to see that most of the main dishes are accompanied by potatoes and seasonal vegetables.

Having eaten my way through starters and a main, I intended to pass on dessert –but with chocolate brownie, sticky toffee pudding and waffles served with caramelized bananas and salted caramel ice-cream –abstinence was not an option. Having been blown away by the vegetarian and vegan choices I tucked into a vegan apple and raspberry crumble with custard and ice cream – which was thoroughly delicious.

Our evening came to an end and having exceeded all our expectations we’ll most definitely be visiting again. Don’t be put off by the fact The Brasserie is located in the hotel – there’s a great ambience, a team of staff who clearly love delivering exceptional service and while I think I have the food covered, I forgot to say – it’s actually great value for money too! n

To find out more about the Clifton Arms’ Christmas menus and events go to: cliftonarmslytham.com

Signature classics include ox cheek Bourguignon, chicken supreme and fish and chips and there are also some great daily specials, including pies (the pastry is gluten free and totally delicious) absolutely packed full of, in our case, chicken and leek. There’s also catch of the day and a roast of the day.

Consideration has also been given to

Clifton Arms Hotel West Beach, Lytham FY8 5QJ 01253 739898 cliftonarmslytham.com

SMALL EATS

PRAWN CRACKERS £3.50

CRISPY DUCK ROLLS £7.50

SALT & PEPPER MUSHROOMS £6.50

PRAWN TOAST & SEAWEED £7.95

CRISPY KING PRAWN WONTON £7.95

HONEY COATED SPICY CHICKEN IN BAMBOO £7.95

SALT & PEPPER CHILLI SQUID £8.50

VEGETABLE SPRING ROLL £5.95

SALT & PEPPER TOFU £6.95

SALT & PEPPER RIBS £8.50

SWEET STICKY CANTONESE RIBS £8.50

PORK WAR TIP GYOZA £7.50

VEGETABLE GYOZA £6.95

1/4 CRISPY DUCK, PANCAKES, CUCUMBER & HOI SIN SAUCE £16.50

CHARLIE YU CLASSICS

CHICKEN CHOW MEIN £12.50

CHICKEN CURRY £11.50

KING PRAWN CURRY £15.50

SPECIAL FRIED RICE £12.95

SPECIAL CHOW MEIN £12.95

CHICKEN FRIED RICE £10.50

CHICKEN & CHAR SUI VERMICELLI £12.95

CHICKEN

SWEET & SOUR CHICKEN £10.95

CHICKEN BLACKBEAN £10.95

SATAY CHICKEN £10.95

CRISPY CHILLI CHICKEN £10.95

SALT & PEPPER CHICKEN £10.95

BEEF

FILLET BEEF CANTONESE £16.50

FILLET STEAK BLACKBEAN WITH MIXED PEPPERS £16.50

FILLET STEAK SATAY £16.50

CRISPY CHILLI STEAK £16.50

SEAFOOD

FILLET SEA BASS, GINGER, SPRING ONION £17.95

SALT & PEPPER CHILLI KING PRAWNS £16.50

SALT & PEPPER CHILLI SCALLOPS, OYSTER MUSHROOMS £15.95 STIR FRY KING PRAWN, PAK CHOI £16.50

PORK SWEET & SOUR PORK £10.50

STIR FRY CHAR SUI PORK BLACKBEAN WITH MIXED PEPPERS £10.50 CHAR SUI PINEAPPLE £10.50

VEGAN

SEASONAL VEGETABLE CURRY £9.50

STIR FRY GEENS £7.95

SPRING ONION, GINGER & CHILLI SINGAPORE VEGAN VERMICELLI £9.50

RICE / NOODLES / SIDES

EGG FRIED RICE £3.95

STEAMED RICE £3.50 PINEAPPLE EGG FRIED RICE £5.95

SOFT NOODLES £5.50

CRISPY NOODLES £4.95

SALT & PEPPER CHIPS £4.95

CHILDREN’S MEALS

CHICKEN NOODLES

WITH BROCCOLI £8.95 CHICKEN, FRIED RICE £8.95 SWEET & SOUR CHICKEN £8.95 & BOILED RICE

When ordering please let our staff know that these are children’s meals

FINE DINING SINGLES DINNER CLUB

As a result of the success of Live Ribble Valley Singles Supper Club there is now a fine-dining Dinner Club – for proper foodies! We already have a couple of forthcoming dates (see below) and there is a big roll out plan for 2023 when we venture further afield and experience the best of the North West!

SUPPER CLUB

Another fabulous event was enjoyed by Ribble Valley Singles Supper Club recently, when guests enjoyed an evening of fine food and lively conversation

The latest Live Ribble Valley Singles Supper Club was another great success with record numbers attending. The event was held at Angels restaurant in Ribchester, where guests chatted over a pre-dinner drink before enjoying a fabulous meal.

The feedback from guests following the event was exceedingly positive. Supper Club diners commented: “Great night, food was fabulous!” “Super food, well presented and

LIVE RIBBLE VALLEY SINGLES DINNER CLUB

3rd November

1st December The Three Fishes

flight

good value.” “Fab night, lots of laughs and super food! Great fun as always.”

Ribble Valley Supper Club host Lynn Scholes, said: “I was so pleased everyone enjoyed it and it was great to welcome so many new members.”

A venue that has proved extremely popular in the past with Supper Club members is Yu at Copster Green – which is the next destination on 13th October. Places are limited. n

LIVE RIBBLE VALLEY SINGLES SUPPER CLUB

1. The Full Pintxos Package

A selection of 5 of cold Pintxos to be discussed upon enquiry from the following selection.

Ricotta, Thyme Honey & Oyster Mushroom Feta cheese, Carrot, Black onion seed, & Harissa Fig, Balsamic & Goats Cheese Tortilla & Padron Pepper Beetroot Feta, Pickled Onion & Padron Pepper Brie, Sundried tomato & Membrillo Blue Cheese & Pickled Walnut Surumi, Garlic Prawn & Confit Cherry Tomato Crayfish, Salsa Rosa & Cucumber Crayfish & Anchovy Smoked Salmon, quail egg & alioli Smoked Salmon, Cream cheese, Capers Turkey & Cranberry

Pulled Turkey & Chorizo Roll Jamon & Manchago Sirloin Steak & ChimmiChurri £12.50 per head - minimum party booking 10. Additional Pintxos at £3 per head

2. The Bottomless Banquet Nibbles on arrival including Olives, Bread & Dips

All you can eat cold Pintxos on Arrival – Upto 5 Types to be discussed upon enquiry from the selection above:

Selection of food from the kitchen: Meatballs in Tomato Sauce Padron peppers BBQ Chicken Wings Stuffed Mushrooms Turkey & Chorizo Sausage Rolls Papas Arrugadas Paella de Casa OR Chicken & Chorizo Paella OR Pulled Turkey

Christmas comes early as we introduce our final seasonal menu of 2022 on the 30th November which will run all the way through until Christmas Eve when the magic really begins to happen. Glasses of sparkling wine to welcome you on those extra special days, carol singers on Christmas Eve to build the anticipation for Christmas Day all the way through to champagne for toasting in the New Year, full of endless possibility and hope, as we leave behind this unprecedented year.

The Christmas menu comes in two forms, at lunch there is an incredible three or four course menu with plant-based and seasonal specialities, perfect for gathering friends, family or work colleagues together.

In the evening is Nigel’s tasting menu, which is five or seven courses of the finest festive food, which has been perfectly paired with wines to complement and enhance every mouthful. Alternatively, you can choose plant-based options and indulge in seasonal specials.

CHRISTMAS SEASONAL LUNCH

Available 30th November - 23rd December Three courses £45 per person

Cheese rolls & whey butter

ORGANIC TREACLE SALMON avocado, sea prawns, spring onion, treacle dressing, coriander oil

DOWNHAM ESTATE GAME ragout, hot winter potato, pickled walnuts, puffed millet, crispy skin

YELLOW BEETS (PB) spiced chestnut hummus, clementine zest, seasonal shoots and herbs, yellow beet dressing

ORGANIC STANDEN HALL CHICKEN breast, Christmas spices, leg croquette, purée potatoes

HAKE LOIN toasted, hibiscus sauce, Morecambe Bay mussels, fennel tempura

KING OYSTER MUSHROOM (PB) pumpkin purée, pearl onions, creamed spinach

LIGHT CHRISTMAS pudding, calvados sauce, frosted apples, ginger

ICED MANDARIN nougatine, festive cream

TIRAMISU (PB) cacao, mousse, coffee caramel, banana ice

CHEESE (optional) British & Irish cheeses from Courtyard Dairy £12 supplement

Scan the QR code to view our Christmas menus or visit our website.

Mince pies and chocolates

PRIVATE DINING AT CHRISTMAS AT THE THREE FISHES

Give yourself the gift of a stress free Christmas. Whether you’re planning a work Christmas party or bringing the family together throughout December, our Private Dining packages have an option for everyone. To find out more about our Christmas menu options visit our website or call us today.

We don’t just look after the food, we also offer bespoke drinks packages designed around your requirements including cocktails, drinks on arrival and bar tabs or you can opt for wine pairings hand-chosen by Hannah, our resident wine expert.

The crispness of the morning air, the colder nights and the pumpkins spilling onto the pathway through our kitchen garden alert us to the change of season...

As we move away from summer BBQs and champagne on the terrace, we excitedly transition into warming liqueur coffees and Nigel’s ever-so-loved Lancashire Hotpot making star appearances after such demand over the previous months.

The Three Fishes since it opened has been a place of familiarity for many, paired with new and exciting menus that take you on a journey through Nigel’s farm-to-fork ethos and throughout periods of his life where his experiences have shaped his dishes. This is set to be taken to new highs now the Ribble Valley begins to glisten with frosty mornings and the cooler embrace of fog rolling over the hills.

THE SUNDAY MENU has transformed since its opening, offering more choice than ever before. Three courses now only cost £49, additionally, Nigel and his team offer a two course option for £42 with a supplementary cheese course at the revised cost of just £10. The choice really is yours, as the menus always feature a traditional Sunday roast, fish options, and plant-based dishes that even the most stubborn carnivore can’t help but enjoy. Whatever you fancy for Sunday lunch, the Fishes has something to keep you and the whole family fed and happy.

Nigel has confirmed he is launching three new special foodie events across the coming two months, which grant him the platform to share the passion he has for dishes from two places where he spent many years perfecting his craft and indeed enjoying himself outside of the kitchen.

SWISS NIGHT

Friday 28th October six courses £80 per person

Let’s layer up and take a culinary journey through time. Picture the Swiss Alps and Nigel guides you through the five years he spent cooking in Switzerland - and yes, for those asking - Nigel has been caught in lederhosen! He couldn’t start with anything else but cheese fondue through to Lakeland char and of course, mountain deer - finished with the finest Swiss chocolate. Hannah will be pairing her wines to ensure that the delicacies you’re enjoying have the perfect partner.

WISTON ESTATE AND PETROSSIAN CAVIAR WINE AND FOOD TASTING

Thursday 10th November Seven courses £150 per person inc wine

Aaron Rite and Miles Corish MW take you on a wine journey. Nigel Haworth and his team match and balance the food, it’s a must for November.

PORTUGUESE NIGHT

Friday 25th November six courses £100 per person

A substantial amount of Nigel’s culinary life and holidays have been in Portugal. Ranging from beach restaurants to two Michelin stars, Portugal has it all with a list of incredible ingredients, from bacalhau (cod) to scarlet prawns, sea bass to tiny clams, bifana (pork), a family favourite chicken piri piri and last, but most definitely not least, interesting desserts with figs and almonds.

Portugal also has the most fascinating wines to explore and we’ll do just that with wine both from our wine list but also a selection of the finest Portuguese wine that’s off-list.

The Three Fishes, Mitton Road, Mitton, Clitheroe, Lancashire, BB7 9PQ

01254 826 666

reservations@thethreefishes.co.uk thethreefishes.co.uk

thethreefishesmitton 3fishesmitton

thethreefishesmitton

SPIDER WEB CHOCOLATE FUDGE MUFFINS

Ingredients:

50g dark chocolate (55% cocoa solids is fine)

85g butter

1 tbsp milk

200g self-raising flour

1/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda 85g light muscovado sugar 50g golden caster sugar

1 egg 142ml carton soured cream

For the topping: 100g dark chocolate (as above) 100g white chocolate

Method:

Preheat the oven to fan 170˚C/ conventional 190˚C/gas 5 and line a muffin tin with 10 paper muffin cases. Break the chocolate into a heatproof bowl, add the butter and liquid. Melt in the microwave on medium for 30-45 seconds (or set the bowl over a pan of gently simmering water). Stir and leave the mixture to cool.

Mix the flour, bicarbonate of soda and both sugars in a bowl. Beat the egg in another bowl and stir in the soured cream, then pour this on the flour mixture and add the cooled chocolate. Stir just to combine –don’t overmix or it will get tough.

Spoon the mixture into the muffin cases to about three quarters full. Bake for 20 minutes until well risen. Loosen the edges with a round-bladed knife, let them sit in the tins for a few minutes, then lift out and cool on a wire rack.

For the topping, make two piping bags out of greaseproof paper (or cut the ends off two clean plastic bags). Break the dark and white chocolate into separate bowls and melt in the microwave on medium for two minutes (or over a pan as in step 1).

Put two spoonful’s of dark chocolate in one bag and the same of white chocolate in the other.

Working with one muffin at a time, spread with dark chocolate from the bowl, letting it run down a bit, then pipe four concentric circles of white chocolate on top. Using a small skewer, drag through the circles at regular intervals, from the centre to the edge, to create a cobweb effect. Repeat with four more muffins. On the remaining five, spread over the white chocolate and decorate with the dark. Best eaten the day they’re made – even better while the chocolate is soft. n

AUTUMN SET LUNCH & EARLY SUPPER £35

SNACKS – Lamb Fat & Rosemary Brioche / Whey Butter

Mushrooms On Toast, Confit Village Egg Yolk, Aged Parmesan Wild Rabbit Confit Leg and Root Vegetable Pressing, Piccallili, Smoked Bacon, Sourdough

Velouté of Late Summer Greens, Lancashire Cheese Cream

Slow Cooked Haunch Steamed Pudding, Pickled Red Cabbage, Sauce Grand Huntsman Cod

Roast Loin, Whipped Lancashire Cheese Potatoes, Gherkin Ketchup, Crispy Onions, Sauce of Ham Organic Pork

Slow Cooked & Crispy Belly,

The new five-course menu at the Freemasons reflects the changing seasons and features some stunning, great-value dishes, writes Tedd Walmsley

Irecently caught up with Chef Patron Steve Smith after a busy lunchtime service at the Freemasons –the autumn lunch and early bird supper menu had just been launched with an incredible take up from both regulars and new customers all wanting to try the new dishes on offer.

We have touched on value for money in previous articles, but this five-course £35 menu is truly incredible value. Your food experience starts with moreish hand crafted ‘snacks’ which are both tasty and light and served alongside the signature lamb fat and rosemary brioche with whey butter. These are a superb precursor for what’s to come –the autumn menu is packed with the very best of a seasonal larder sourced both locally and using the best ingredients from other specialist suppliers who share and understand Steve’s ethos.

The choices for starter, main and desserts will give you a series

of dilemmas and the introduction of a delicious intermediary soup course is a great punctuation mark between the courses and elongates the whole gastronomy experience. Whilst we are emphasising the incredible value for money at just £35, I must

THE AUTUMN MENU IS PACKED WITH THE VERY BEST OF A SEASONAL LARDER

stress that there’s no compromise on quality. The food is served impeccably by a very energetic and knowledgeable front-of-house team and the Freemasons’ sommelier is on hand to offer advice on a series of wellmatched wines to complement your food.

Both the a la carte menu and tasting menus have been updated too and reflect autumn and its rich bounty and the full menus are now available to

peruse online. With dark nights approaching look out also for a series of events and special nights – both the website and

strong social media presence will give you all the latest details. The full Christmas programme is also now available online. n

lunches

Christmas

celebrate

James’

At the time of the move, Yasuyo had a two-year-old son who had been diagnosed with autistic spectrum disorder: “I was caring for him – it was very important to me that he got the best care, but I was also struggling to settle here,” says Yasuyo, who was then living in Colne.

As time went by, Yasuyo found her son’s care increasingly challenging and as he has grown older, he has needed intensive 24-hour residential care.

“It was a difficult time for me as I missed my Japanese friends and while I have lovely family and friends, I was still finding it hard settle and felt very isolated. I went to see a counsellor and she introduced me to Nelson and Colne College, where I embarked on a BTech in art and design.

“It gently reintroduced me to society. I had always been creative at school and the BTech course is quite wide-ranging and aims to find your strengths,” explains Yasuyo, who was encouraged by her tutors to progress to A level and foundation course level with a particular interest in 3D artwork, textiles and mixed media.

DIFFERENT DIMENSION

Born in Japan, Yasuyo Cooper was educated in Tokyo where, as a young schoolgirl, she learnt the Japanese art of origami.

Her father was a businessman while her mother was a piano teacher and a creative influence on Yasuyo.

Now living in Clitheroe, Yasuyo’s story is fascinating – her work as an artist has largely been borne out of her move to the UK and her struggle to settle here.

Completing her foundation course, Yasuyo’s final exam saw her creating a three-section screen made of fabric printed from a photo taken of forest trees: “When the light shines through it, it creates shadows and a 3D effect.”

Creating intricate pieces of artwork, Yasuyo Cooper is an expert in the ancient Japanese arts of origami and tsumami

After leaving school in Tokyo, Yasuyo went on to study English at one of the city’s colleges before meeting her husband, who was an English teacher from Lancashire.

“We were living and working in Tokyo,” recalls Yasuyo. “My husband had changed jobs and was working for a Japanese company but then his father fell ill and we had to move from Tokyo to the UK.”

However, her love of origami has never waned: “I love working with fabric –not just textiles but paper too. In Japan children learn origami at kindergarten, playing with just one sheet of paper making one simple item.”

Today, she creates 3D origami sculptures featuring hundreds of sectioned pieces of paper that are neatly folded inwards on themselves to hold it together.

“There’s no glue involved,” she says, of her colourful creations that have featured at Clitheroe’s Platform Gallery.

Exhibiting her work has led her to

THE ORIGAMI WORK HAS ALSO LED TO THE TRADITIONAL JAPANESE ART OF TSUMAMI – FOLDING TEXTILES, TO CREATE FLOWERS OFTEN TO CREATE GEISHA STYLE HEADDRESSES

taking commissions and to diversifying –she now also makes decorative purses and bags from kimono silk as well as creating intricate origami pieces, which she sells at artisan markets throughout the region.

“My work is totally unique, each piece is different,” adds Yasuyo, who has recently returned from a 10-month-long trip to Tokyo where she sourced silk for her work.

For the past decade Yasuyo has lived in Clitheroe – a move that was necessary when her daughter, who is currently studying at the Queen Mary University of London, secured a place at Clitheroe Royal Grammar School.

“I love living here and now feel really settled and that is largely due to my artwork. Looking back, 10 years ago I was reluctant to do anything, my son’s condition had escalated and I was suffering from burn-out. I needed something to focus on, something that takes time to create.”

Self-taught, she adds: “Back in Japan I remember looking at the very traditional structures in what was essentially an instruction manual for origami.

“I’d try out some of the folds from the book and I would think, ‘Okay I see how that works now,’ and I would go on to try different things to make various structures work.”

Among the work Yasuyo has created is a hanging geometric origami screen made up of 221 pieces of neatly folded paper. Her origami work has also led her to take up

the traditional Japanese art of tsumami –folding textiles, to create flowers often to create geisha style headdresses.

“I have done this before on a small scale, but I am hoping to create more and exhibit my work. It’s a lovely way of making unique gifts,” says Yasuyo, who will initially create sketches of her origami and tsumami pieces before she starts folding.

“I love experimenting with different textures and structure. Because you have to concentrate so much, it is very therapeutic and relaxing. It has also enabled me to meet new people in creative arts, which I find fascinating.” n

YASUYO’S FINAL EXAM SAW HER CREATING A THREE-SECTION SCREEN MADE OF FABRIC PRINTED FROM A PHOTO TAKEN OF FOREST TREES

GOOD READ

Lauren Molyneux curls up with a contemporary classic from across the pond

THE COLOR PURPLE

Alice Walker

‘I don’t know how to fight. All I know how to do is stay alive.’

Set in the segregated landscape of the Deep South in between the wars, The Color Purple opens with our narrator, Celie, sharing her memories of the abuse she experienced as a young woman at the hands of her stepfather. Thus begins a tale that is as emotional as it is engrossing, sensitively navigating the complexities of contemporary society, Celie’s unfiltered and oddly poetic insight spans issues surrounding nationalism, class, race, gender, sexuality, identity and religion.

With this, the question may be asked as to what degree The Color Purple can be considered a text about gender, race, discovery, or faith. As much as it has widely been regarded a book which primarily seeks to address and educate on the black struggle, to me it seems it is, first and foremost, a text that explores the struggles of women, who are abused, subordinated and discriminated against regardless of their race, class, or country.

The Color Purple is a woman’s story that places women at its centre, exploring the power of sisterhood and the beauty of the natural body, and as such it seems gender politics and the struggles of women remain the narrative’s driving force. Thematically, this is mirrored in Celie’s relationship with her sister, whom she has been forbidden to see and desperately longs for on a daily basis, and it is likewise evidenced in the development of the plot.

It is when our narrator learns not only the harsh nature of the world as it’s walked in a woman’s shoes, but also when she discovers her value, finds her voice and learns how to fight back, that her character arc is completed and we’re left with an uplifting and inspiring message that encourages action and promotes understanding and harmony across economic, political, gender, sexuality, race and religious divides.

As we move between the perspectives of Celie and her sister, Nessie, the sisters’ interactions seek to contextualise the women’s struggle on a global scale. This comes as a result of the novel’s epistolary structure, which at once facilitates an ongoing dialogue incorporating contrasting experiences and cultures, whilst also acting as the catalyst for the true heartbreak that lies at the centre of the narrative – the separation of Celie from her sister, who remains the only person in the world who has never mistreated her.

As the plot progresses, we find ourselves increasingly desperate to see the sisters reunited in the hope that Celie will finally receive the protection she so desperately needs and craves. Providing a rich and raw narrative whose characters and plot reach far beyond its mere 250 pages, Celie’s trauma, learnings and insightful commentary pours out across the pages as she comes to terms with the imbalances in her relationships and injustices in her community. Her narration is expertly crafted and delivered with honesty, integrity and authenticity, encouraging reader alignment from the get-go and making it very plain to see why The Color Purple is widely regarded as a must-read – a modern classic. n

AUTUMN COLOURS

With its warm, gentle colours and the textures of nature highlighted by ripening fruit and falling leaves, autumn is a time adored by many of Longridge Gallery’s customers

Longridge Gallery’s current collection does not disappoint lovers of the new autumn season. Chloe Nugent’s beautiful original Silver Light II has a high gloss resin finish to complement its

textured background, crinkly like the leaves.

The work is enhanced with 3D elements to really give the impression of falling leaves resplendent in their autumn colours. Chloe creates her exciting imagery using

a variety of techniques including layering, applique, montage and collage – the perfect embodiment of Horowitz’s mosaic.

One of Lancashire’s finest artists Barry Hilton uses references from our home county to illustrate the power of nature, storms and changing light. The juxtaposition of brooding skies and ripe fields create stunning imagery, never better than in his signed limited edition print Crimson Fields of Home. Sold out from the publisher, this could be your last chance to secure this beautiful work.

WINTER IS AN ETCHING, SPRING A WATERCOLOUR, SUMMER AN OIL PAINTING AND AUTUMN A MOSAIC OF THEM ALL Stanley Horowitz

We have enjoyed a fabulous customer reaction to the work of Scottish artist John Russell. Stylistically similar to Barry Hilton, John takes a somewhat more modernist approach to his compositions using bold blocks of colour (often straight from the Farrow & Ball colour chart) to interpret a scene. Vibrant reds, yellows and here, orange, sit against dark greys and greens and indigo blues. With the Silver Moon illuminating this original painting, we invite you to melt into the colours of autumn!

Please call into the gallery to view our autumn collection or visit our website and social media channels. n

Longridge Gallery

78 Berry Lane, Longridge Preston PR3 3WH 01772 782006 info@longridgegallery.co.uk longridgegallery.co.uk

/Longridge-Gallery

@longridgegallery

@longridgegall

Grindleton

Offers Over £600,000

With three to four bedrooms, formal gardens and a triple garage the property is in need of updating but offers huge potential to suit a range of buyers.

Samlesbury

Offers Over £935,000

A highly attractive, detached character property with spacious accommodation. Set in a large plot, extending to 6.67 acres OTA the five-bedroom property is set back from Nabs Head Lane and is in a fantastic location for those looking for good links to the main road network and excellent schools.

A deceptively spacious, detached, chalet bungalow located in the heart of the popular village of Grindleton.

Longridge

Over £575,000

Chipping

in the Region of £975,000

A lovely stone-barn conversion with detached stable building and barn sitting within a generous plot.

With impressive views and extensive gardens, this four-bedroom property is ideal for those who need space to work from home and enjoy a slice of rural life.

A superb, detached house, recently constructed by the vendor, situated on popular Halfpenny Lane.

The property offers generous living space in a super spacious plot, all within walking distance of the many amenities of Longridge.

A truly magnificent farmhouse originally dating back to circa 1690, which has been substantially extended, improved and modernised and immaculately presented to an exceptional standard. Located in a quiet, semi-rural, yet accessible location just outside the village of Cliviger on the outskirts of Burnley, Lancashire. This beautiful property has flexible accommodation which will appeal to many and includes: eight double bedrooms with five bathrooms, five superb reception rooms, including a spacious dining kitchen open to dining area, orangery and bar, swimming pool, gymnasium, cinema and games room. Surrounded by extensive private landscaped gardens with large south facing sun terrace, tennis court, garden office building, gated driveway, ample parking and double garage. Superb rural views and setting. Inspection is necessary to appreciate what is on offer. EPC – D

A stunning and recently completed Grade II listed farmhouse and attached barn located centrally in the village of Thornton-in-Craven near Skipton, North Yorkshire. This stunning family home has been lovingly crafted over a period of five years and now provides superb modern living accommodation inside and out with a fantastic mix of traditional features and contemporary style. With four spacious reception rooms, fabulous dining kitchen, five bedrooms and two bathrooms, this property is well presented and finished to a high standard. Externally there is a quadruple garage with potential for conversion (subject to planning). Outside the gardens and grounds are superb, with additional buildings, outside kitchen, stone-built folly with open fire and various terraced areas all with a quality finish. Superb location for commuting and local schools. Early inspection is recommended and will not disappoint. EPC – C

Located in a rural and elevated position with superb views towards the Yorkshire Three Peaks, Higher Clough is a Grand Designs project waiting to happen. This substantial property has huge potential but requires renovation including some structural works and decoration. The main house has six bedrooms, a large open plan kitchen / living area and two further ground floor reception rooms. A self-contained one-bedroom annexe is attached to the east-facing elevation, with a kitchen and bathroom at ground floor and bedroom and living space to the first floor. The gardens and grounds require landscaping works to be completed but offer huge potential to create an attractive backdrop to the main house. The land surrounding the property extends to approximately 36 acres. There may be future scope for the successful purchaser to sell parts of the land including to nearby landowners and farmers. EPC – D

BELLS FARM, SKIPTON ROAD, THORNTON-IN-CRAVEN, BD23 3ST

HIGHER CLOUGH, BROGDEN LANE, BARNOLDSWICK, BB18 5XF

Leader in Lettings.

Property rentals are rising significantly. We talk to the lettings experts at Keenans to find out why renting is becoming increasingly popular.

Following a career in professional football, Simon Westwell has 18 years’ experience in the lettings industry and is currently Head of Lettings at leading estate agency Keenans.

With over 10 offices covering Lancashire, Manchester and Greater Manchester, Keenans have an exceptionally strong sales and letting team and are enjoying a buoyant market, as Simon explains: “It’s all about supply and demand and while we have a large number of properties managed, we are looking for continued growth and expansion into other areas. Offering a full range of services, Keenan’s lettings department offers:

• Tenant Find Only

• Rent Collection

• Full Management Service

• Full Management with Rent Guarantee

Over the past decade there has been a marked change in the lettings market, with demand outstripping supply. “This is very much due to a lifestyle change,” says Simon, who oversees the Lettings team. Keenans are exceptional at finding great investment properties for prospective landlords. The North West is currently enjoying one of the strongest markets for property investors outside of London. Keenans can source properties for investors, negotiate a sale and find a suitable tenant in one transaction. The perfect solution!

More importantly they also have an in-depth knowledge of all legislation and regulations to which landlords need to abide. Keenans’ letting agents are trained to the highest professional standards to ensure the advice and guidance they give is current, compliant and reliable.

Keenans’ full management service provides a first-class, smooth and workable option for both landlord and tenants. If any issues occur such as boiler breakdown, Keenans’ dedicated property management team are on call to deal with any problems swiftly, giving the landlord and tenant peace of mind. Keenans have a strong and diverse, property lettings register – from one-bedroom flats to five-bedroom barn conversions –and everything in between!

Landlords and property investors will soon discover the difference with Keenans in their proactive and enthusiastic attitude and their aim to let your property as quickly and as profitably as possible. “We are anticipating continued growth in the lettings market,” says Simon. “Our aim at Keenans is to become the Number 1 lettings agent across East Lancashire and Greater Manchester offering a five-star service.”

aNd GrEaTEr maNchESTEr

Talk to Simon today about Letting your properties. Talk To Keenans.

www.keenanslettings.co.uk

“Our aIm aT KEENaNS IS TO bEcOmE ThE NumbEr 1 LETTINGS

aGENT acrOSS EaST LaNcaShIrE

OffErING a fIvE-STar SErvIcE ”

DONE

with planning approval. Some sites with planning approval for a unique dwelling in a desirable area may even achieve up to 50 per cent of the end value of the completed scheme for the site with planning approval. Therefore, some of our clients with no development experience opt to sell with planning approval.

If you own land which is located within a settlement boundary, or a brownfield site, it is highly likely that planning approval will be gained. However, land within the open countryside or greenbelt, is not as simple. Planning success is dependent on the specific village or town location, proximity to the settlement boundary, if there are any existing structures on the site, the current use of the site, the proposed use of the site, the specific requirements

UNIQUE SITES

Are you a landowner and you want to either self-build, complete your own development or sell your land with planning approval?

At ZMA we have a number of sites within greenbelt, open countryside, conservation areas and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) across Lancashire and the Ribble Valley. Each site is unique and has its own limitations. What you can do with your land is dependent on the national and local planning policies associated with the site’s exact location. For example, sometimes sites next to each other or on the same street will have different limitations, one site may lie within a settlement boundary and one site may lie within greenbelt.

It is advisable to contact a qualified consultant to provide you with some initial guidance to understand the development potential, site constraints and likelihood of gaining approval prior to making any planning submissions or even commencing detailed designs. At ZMA we offer a free consultation to all of our enquiries when

we will provide you with initial advice on your land or project.

Our client base varies from individual families wanting to build their own bespoke dream homes, farmers wanting to sell land with planning approval and commercial clients gaining approval for medium to large scale sites.

THE VALUE OF A SITE WITH AND WITHOUT PLANNING APPROVAL CAN VARY FROM £10,000 PER ACRE WITHOUT PLANNING APPROVAL TO ACHIEVING UPWARDS OF £100,000 PER ACRE WITH PLANNING APPROVAL

The value of a site with and without planning approval can vary from £10,000 per acre without planning approval to achieving upwards of £100,000 per acre

of the end-user and if the Local Authority can currently demonstrate a five-year housing supply.

For example, some sites which are highly sensitive and located outside of the settlement boundary would need to meet the design standards to be truly outstanding or innovative, reflecting the highest standards in architecture and would help to raise standards of design in rural areas. Other sites may only be suitable for a commercial use for example tourism, and sites with existing structures have more scope for new development.

We have different fee structures to suit each client and project from a percentage of the sale value, a fixed fee, or a no win no fee. Get in touch with ZMA to book your free consultation. n

Zara Moon Architects We transform sites, buildings, and lives. 01200 403840 enquiries@zaramoonarchitects.co.uk zaramoonarchitects.co.uk

Oakhill Students Smash Records

GCSE results may have fallen nationally but at Oakhill the opposite is true, with students receiving significantly better results than in previous years. Nearly a quarter of all the exams taken by this year’s students received the highest grade of 9. An astonishing 93% of students received a 7, 8 or 9 in their GCSEs which would be equivalent to an A, A* or A** and this places Oakhill students very much at the highest level both locally and nationally.

PRINCIPAL JANE BUTTERY SAID:

‘We are absolutely delighted with the students’ results. Despite all the challenges we have faced we have maintained a high standard of teaching throughout and together with our pupils’ tremendous hard work and positive attitude, this has meant that they have received outstanding results at every level and can now go on in every case to their first choice of sixth form college.’

Wiswell Lane, Whalley, Lancashire,