Live Ribble Valley Issue 139 March/April 2023

SPRING FEVER FABULOUS FASHION

GLITTERING CAREERS

DIAMOND DUO’S LATEST BOOK

LANGUAGE OF THE LANDSCAPE

PHOTOGRAPHER SIMON SHARP

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12 ANOTHER WORLD

Ribble Valley creative duo Alastair Laidlaw and Christine Marsden, whose worldrenowned publication, Dreams of Diamonds, featured the $89 million Pink Star, have recently launched a stunning new e-book.

82 STYDD PILGRIMAGE

Andrew Stachulski discovers an understated gem of a church, with origins over 800 years old, on a quiet byway of Ribchester.

102 CONSERVATION FUND RAISER

Guests attended a highly successful, fund-raising dinner, hosted by the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (North), at the Inn at Whitewell.

128 FORTY YEARS IN HOSPITALITY

Kevin Berkins celebrates 40 years in the hospitality business, and while he has run numerous enterprises, the one that has given him most satisfaction is the Fence Gate.

144 LANGUAGE OF THE LANDSCAPE

The dramatic scenery of the Forest of Bowland is captured in a series of stunning images by photographer Simon Sharp, who uses traditional darkroom methods that make his work totally unique.

LIVE MAGAZINES

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Editor: Jan Woolley

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Photography: Peter Austin and Kirsten Platt

Editorial contributors: Paul Agnew, Gail Bailey, Kate Hyde, Meena McDonald, Catherine Robinson, Andrew Stachulski, Sarah Ulyatt, Jenni Walmsley, Robert Walmsley, Liz Walmsley and Tedd Walmsley

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Editor

In spite of the recent cold snap, it really is beginning to feel like Spring - the trees are blossoming, the daffodils and snowdrops are blooming and the new-born lambs are out in the fields. We are so lucky to call the Ribble Valley home – and two people who would most certainly agree are Alastair Laidlaw and Christine Marsden, who moved here from Scotland four years ago.

The duo are the creatives behind a world-renowned super-book, Dreams of Diamonds, and they have recently published a new e-book, Magical Landscapes Secret Places, capturing the fabulous Highland scenery. Shifting values within communities, deforestation and political changes in Scotland prompted their move to the Ribble Valley, which they agree, has some of the most beautiful countryside in the UK.

Also featuring in this issue of Live Ribble Valley is award-winning documentary photographer and filmmaker Simon Sharp, who has worked in Asia, Africa, Australia and North America. He uses a Sinar Norma camera manufactured in the 1950s and traditional darkroom techniques to tone and develop stunning, thought-provoking images. Closer to home, the wild landscape of Bowland is the subject of his exhibition currently being staged in Clitheroe.

Also familiar with the Ribble Valley countryside, is historian and fell walker Andrew Stachulski who discovers Stydd Church in Ribchester. He traces the history of this ancient building, which is believed to be a product of the Crusade era. In his article, Andrew gives us a fascinating insight into bygone times.

In our Food & Drink section we turn the spotlight on Kevin Berkins, who is celebrating 40 years in the hospitality industry and in our Business Hour pages we meet Chris Eccles, who is overseeing a new partnership that is bringing global brand INEOS to the Ribble Valley.

You will also find some super, seasonal Spring fashion, botanical based beauty and inspirational interiors. We hope you enjoy this issue of Live Ribble Valley!

Jan Woolley Editor

Our new Preston showroom display, part of a large programme that sees all our showrooms being redesigned with new displays featuring the very latest styles, finishes and colours. Call in to your nearest showroom to see what’s new.

ANOTHER WORLD…

Alastair Laidlaw and Christine Marsden’s world-renowned publication, Dreams of Diamonds, featured the priceless Millennium Star and the $89 million Pink Star. They have recently launched a stunning new e-book, Magical Landscapes Secret Places

The creative duo behind a giant super-book, Dreams of Diamonds, acknowledged as one of the most spectacular diamond publications of all time, have released a new e-book inspired by the beauty and wonder of the Highlands of Scotland.

Before their move to the Ribble Valley four years ago, Alastair Laidlaw and Christine Marsden, co-founders of the House of Laidlaw Marsden, lived on the shores of Loch Ness, where they were able to capture on camera the extraordinary natural landscape.

WE WERE ABLE TO SHOOT THE $200 MILLION MILLENNIUM STAR, THE $89 MILLION PINK STAR, WHICH IS THE LARGEST FLAWLESS VIVID PINK DIAMOND AND THE TIARA BELONGING TO PRINCESS GRACE OF MONACO

The couple originally met in London back in the 1980’s where Alastair was a professional photographer and Christine was working for fashion giant Mulberry.

The pair instantly hit it off, as Alastair recalls: “We were from very different backgrounds. I was the son of a doctor and nurse, while Christine was one of six siblings from Mill Hill in Blackburn. But we had a lot in common in terms of creativity. When we met, we were both working in central London – it was a crazy time, a golden era.”

Having trained as a ‘traditional’ photographer at Central St Martin’s and Bournemouth, Alastair began working as an assistant to an American photographer, who had a studio in Kensington: “One of the first big jobs we did was in Egypt shooting the pyramids for a Benson and Hedges advertisement. It was a famous campaign that really set a trend, so we were right in the mix.”

Alastair went on to set up his own freelance photography business while Christine moved into a career styling stilllife advertisements for the luxury goods market including watches and diamonds.

“It was a natural progression to eventually work together,” recalls Christine.

studio space was next to De Beers and the Diamond Trading Company (DTC) in central London.

With their sights set on producing a large-format book, they chose to focus on some of the world’s most dazzling diamonds: “We got sponsors from the diamond industry and De Beers said we could use their headquarters, which was amazing as they already had security in place. We could never have done it without them – it was the safest place in London!

“Diamond traders felt very confident bringing their diamonds to us from a security point of view.”

Over three years Alastair and Christine used the space to shoot some of the world’s most valuable gems – and at the same time they had a mock-up of their super-size book with blank pages in order to show potential sponsors.

They had a phenomenal response from diamond houses all over the globe and were able to shoot the $200 million Millennium Star, a flawless 200 carat diamond, the $89 million 59.6 carat Pink Star, which is the largest flawless vivid pink diamond and the tiara belonging to Princess Grace of Monaco.

“We were photographing immensely precious and rare blue, orange and red diamonds,” adds Christine.

When Dreams of Diamonds was published with a 500-print run, it was distributed to the

Under the House of Laidlaw Marsden, the duo became hugely respected for their exceptional work which featured in the likes of Vogue, Tatler, Vanity Fair, Elle and The Times. They became well known for their jewellery photography and their work is now in private and public collections throughout the world including the Royal Academy and the Royal Photographic Society.

In 2008, during London Fashion Week, iconic designer Vivienne Westwood launched her renowned Opus book featuring 97 largeformat Polaroid images of international celebrities including Kate Moss, Bob Geldof and Helena Bonham Carter. It was one of the largest fashion books ever published.

“The book gave us the idea to produce something in large format,” says Alastair.

By coincidence Alastair and Christine’s

THERE ARE IMAGES OF FEATHER ICE, VIBRANT RED-CAPPED MUSHROOMS, CRASHING WATERFALLS AND CLEAR BLUE SKIES, STORM CLOUDS AND HUGE, HARVEST MOONS

best diamond houses, institutes and museums around the world. The Gemological Institute of America, located in California, was so inspired by the book, they put on one of their largest exhibitions ever, calling it Dreams of Diamonds.

Dreams of Diamonds copy No 60, which was presented to the late Queen Elizabeth to mark her Diamond Jubilee, sparked other commissions for the House of Laidlaw Marsden and Alastair and Christine went on to publish a book for one of the most wellknown diamond suppliers, Diacore: “That was fun – we wanted to shoot a rare pink diamond but to bring it to London was going to be a nightmare in terms of security so they flew us to Geneva to photograph it.

“We have been invited to some amazing places and met some extraordinary people,” says Christine.

While Alastair and Christine enjoyed working in central London, they had spent many holidays in Scotland and with the digital age well and truly established, they made the decision to move to the Highlands of Scotland and commute to London: “We had found the transition to digital liberating. It meant we could work from anywhere.

“I am Scottish by blood and nature,” says Alastair. “The move meant we could release our studio in Clerkenwell and simply hire a studio when we needed to work in London. We could shoot in London and do all postprint production in Scotland. We had also spent 13 years in our tiny Chelsea flat so that went too.”

The couple bought a large house in Fort Augustus, where they created a studio and

where they lived for 18 years, during which time they captured the extraordinary beauty of the changing landscape: “We had so many years shooting in Scotland we had thousands of photographs. In 2015 we started collating an archive.

“We then started thinking about another book featuring landscapes that would tie the imagery to history and magical folklore. Something wildly creative.”

For all the natural majesty of the Highland landscape over the centuries, over the last two decades there have been huge changes within the communities. Development has arrived and the landscape has shifted. Produced over almost 20 years, Magical Landscapes Secret Places has inadvertently captured these changes, reflecting how the landscape has evolved.

Christine explains: “We began to see deforestation and political changes – things we didn’t necessarily agree with.”

The duo decided to move to the Ribble Valley where they have now settled: “We miss Scotland but we have found world class scenery here too,” say Alastair and Christine, who have plans to produce posters and artwork from their new book.

Magical Landscapes Secret Places was recently published as a 375-page e-book featuring fabulous images that include stunning photography. There are images of feather ice, vibrant red-capped mushrooms, crashing waterfalls and clear blue skies, storm clouds and huge, harvest moons. The true to life images are punctuated with other-worldly photographs that are digitally enhanced to give a hint of fantasy and mystery accompanied by thought-provoking

“There’s no doubt that Dreams of Diamonds gave us our pedigree. The pressure was on to create something beautiful, which we were able to do. We have now moved on and we hope that people will enjoy Magical Landscapes Secret Places which we consider to be a visual time capsule of our years spent in the Highlands.” n

Magical Landscapes Secret Places is available from online retailers including Amazon, Kobo and Apple. RRP £9.99 thehouseoflaidlawmarsden.com

text by writers Roberta Edwards and James A Whittaker.

WE CONSIDER MAGICAL LANDSCAPES SECRET PLACES TO BE A VISUAL TIME CAPSULE OF OUR YEARS SPENT IN THE HIGHLANDS

Led by Design: A Sleek, Luxurious, Contemporary Kitchen

Design was of paramount importance for Derrick and Mandy when it came to choosing a kitchen company to replace the kitchen in their Barrowford home.

They approached three other kitchen companies but Kitchen Design Centre and Designer Suzanne Ryan were the obvious choice: Kitchen Design Centre’s design focus, instead of a heavy sales approach impressed them and they were delighted with Suzanne’s first design, feeling she understood the brief to create a high-end kitchen.

Their existing kitchen lacked flair, consisting of a peninsular based layout. Suzanne totally reconfigured it, creating a much more open space and introduced a large island in the middle of the kitchen which not only creates a focal point in the room but also provides the perfect dining area. The new design also incorporates many high-end elements throughout, such as the bench seating area and Quartz window sills, both adding to the overall highend look and feel.

The end result is a contemporary kitchen that is not only practical, cleverly utilising space but also has the ‘wow’ factor. The introduction of an island works so much better than the existing peninsular design and has created considerably more storage and work top space for the couple.

Derrick and Mandy are delighted with the end result and Kitchen Design Centre, “The end result is fabulous; The kitchen looks incredible and is just what we wanted. We can’t recommend KDC enough, from Suzanne who wowed us with her first design and throughout with her fantastic project management skills to the fitters who were brilliant with their attention to detail and craftsmanship.”

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

“It was great to work with Derrick and Mandy. They were really open to my ideas and the end result is a totally transformed space with a contemporary kitchen that looks incredible. It’s more practical and has a luxurious, sleek look and feel.”

Designer Suzanne Ryan says,

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VINTAGE FLORAL ROSE PORCELAIN TEA FOR ONE SET £26.95 londonboutique.uk

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discover...

of my granny who loved roses. We inherited a fabulous rose garden when we bought our house, it features all different shapes, sizes, and colours, but I love the white roses! They are simple and classic and paired with the green leaves and duck egg background they bring the outdoors in.”

EVERYTHING’S COMING UP ROSES…

A new collection from designer Sophie Allport will set the scene for the coming spring and summer

British homewares and lifestyle brand Sophie Allport has unveiled her new floral collection for spring summer 2023, Rose.

Sophie has many favourite flowers, but she confesses that she simply loves roses. This design was inspired by her own fabulous rose garden, which blooms from May to October every year and fills her home with a soft, delicate fragrance.

Sophie has painted beautiful, crisp white roses against a duck egg background, allowing home-owners to bring the outside in, all year round. A simple, appealing design, giving plenty of gift inspiration for flower enthusiasts, garden lovers and those who love adding a vintage touch to their homes.

of products, including kitchen linens, table settings, fine bone China, handmade trays, as well as a lovely collection of picnicware and gardening accessories. Designer Sophie explains: “Roses are simply my favourite flowers, they remind me

WE INHERITED A FABULOUS ROSE GARDEN WHEN WE BOUGHT OUR HOUSE, IT FEATURES ALL DIFFERENT SHAPES, SIZES, AND COLOURS, BUT I LOVE THE WHITE ROSES!

Since 2007, Sophie Allport has been creating timeless pieces for the home, inspired by the colourful ins and outs of day-to-day family life. Sophie’s designs draw on classic British heritage, with the occasional quirky twist to put a smile on your face.

With lots to choose from, this quintessentially British design is sure to make a classic and traditional statement in any home. The collection features a range

Quite often, there is true contentment in the little things in life – from a cup of tea in your favourite mug to dressing your table for that special family occasion.

Sophie Allport’s Rose collection starts from as little as £7.50 for a melamine beaker and up to £48 for a knitted picnic blanket. The collection is available now to purchase and is just perfect for styling a home for spring and summer. n

sophieallport.com

FIVE SIMPLE WAYS TO FRESHEN UP YOUR HOME

The sun is setting later in the day, the mercury is steadily rising and nature’s first signs of spring are starting to bloom, so it’s the perfect time to update your home

The season ahead brings with it a sense of renewal and new beginnings and as the changes occur outside, many of us are keen to bring the revitalising energy of spring into our homes too.

By taking the time to clean, declutter and update your decor, you can create a space that’s inviting, comfortable and functional for the new season. Here are our ideas on how to give your home a new lease of life this spring.

AS THE DAYS GET LONGER, TRY TO ENCOURAGE AS MUCH LIGHT INTO YOUR HOME AS POSSIBLE

DECLUTTER AND CLEAN

At this time of year, many of us are eager to give our homes a thoroughly good clean.

A spring clean is, of course, one of the most effective ways to freshen up your home, but organisation is also key to an aesthetically pleasing home interior.

Before you whip out the feather duster or start scrubbing the skirting boards, re-evaluate your storage situation. Sort through your belongings and dispose of or donate anything you no longer have use for. As you’re emptying cupboards and clearing surfaces you can give them a rigorous clean at the same time. Your objective is to ensure you have ample space to store your belongings, so that clutter doesn’t immediately begin to accumulate

again. Once you have your possessions sufficiently organised, your room will be streamlined and tidy for the new season and the ritual spring clean might now seem less of a chore.

SPRING IS IN THE AIR

Over winter, we’re less likely to have fresh air circulating our homes. The cold, wet weather doesn’t encourage us to open windows and doors, so a build-up of stagnant, recycled air with its allergens and toxins in tow, is likely to be hanging around.

As the weather improves and we peel off the layers, open windows and doors become more of a pleasure than an endeavour, and soon your home will be filled with the delightful aromas of spring flowers and herbs from your garden and window boxes. Enjoy the early morning birdsong too and the pitter patter of our feathered friends on your windowsills!

LET THERE BE LIGHT!

One of the first indications of spring is the notable increase in daylight hours. Natural light is undoubtedly a mood enhancer. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is thought to be caused by the poor amount of natural light we are exposed to during autumn and winter and can lead to low moods.

SAD is fairly common and many of us suffer without realising it, so as the days get longer, try to encourage as much light into your home as possible. Keep windows clear of furniture and clutter and ensure curtains and blinds are left open for as long as the sun is above the horizon – unless privacy is required, of course. A window seat is a fantastic multipurpose addition to any home and will provide you with somewhere comfy to soak up some much-needed natural light. Enjoy the handy extra storage space too!

DRESS FOR THE SEASON

Heavy duvets, fluffy throws and sheepskin rugs are ideal during the chilly winter months but become redundant as spring gets going. That’s not to say the British weather won’t have a few crisp days to deliver during the sunny months, so just replace your cosy, insulating soft furnishings and bed linen with lighter alternatives.

Switch your winter duvet to one with a lower tog. A breathable blanket draped across the foot of your bed will provide you with an easily accessible extra layer during unseasonal chilly nights. Before you make the switch, give your mattresses and mattress toppers a thorough clean to eliminate any dust, bacteria and hidden odours. Handheld steam cleaners are perfect for these tasks and you can give your curtains the once over too to ensure they’re free from dirt, debris and pet hair.

BLOOMING MARVELLOUS

Once you’ve tackled the practical elements associated with sprucing up your home for spring, it’s time to think of ways you can reflect the season in your decor.

A quick lick of paint will brighten up a tired-looking space and it’s generally an inexpensive, yet effective way of doing so. If you fancy a colour change, pastel shades are perfect for this time of year. If you don’t have the time for decorating, you can bring spring indoors via your choice of soft furnishings and accessories instead.

Brighten up moody tones and Nordic neutrals with colourful cushions and cheery prints. Florals instantly evoke thoughts of spring. Even a simple vase of tulips or daffodils is enough to bring instant colour and cheer to a living space.

At Hartleys, we design bespoke storage solutions to combat all types of clutter. Bring an organised and streamlined appeal to your home with fitted wardrobes, multipurpose furniture, media units and made to measure cabinets. With a whole host of spring-like finishes to choose from too, you can enjoy both functionality and style at home. n

EVEN A SIMPLE VASE OF TULIPS OR DAFFODILS IS ENOUGH TO BRING INSTANT COLOUR AND CHEER TO A LIVING SPACE

TOTAL TRANSFORMATION

The first in a two-part series, we find out how one couple discovered Dovetail, which has completely transformed a beautiful new-build farmhouse. Photography: Kirsten Platt

When Maurice and Jasmine Dewhurst discovered some old farm buildings on the side of Pendle Hill they could see what great potential they had in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

With views over wild and windy moorland, they envisaged a stunning family home. Fast forward two years later and at the heart of the 38-acre plot is a fabulous new-build stone farmhouse that can be found down a long and winding track, where sheep and horses graze in the surrounding fields.

The couple moved into the house in August last year, as Jasmine explains: “When we

started looking for a kitchen we visited numerous companies – we travelled for miles, from Cheshire to Yorkshire, but we just couldn’t seem to agree on the style.

they had previously shared: “It was a pine kitchen that was 25 years old. It was bespoke and we loved it as it was so well made. I had painted it numerous times to bring it up to date. We remembered that the kitchen had been made by Dovetail – so that was our answer!”

“I wanted something quite traditional in keeping with the farmhouse and my husband wanted something really modern.”

In a bid to resolve their dilemma, Jasmine recalled a much-loved kitchen in a little cottage

Maurice and Jasmine visited Dovetail’s beautiful new showroom, fittingly on the moors above the village of Cowling, just

DOVETAIL’S ATTENTION TO DETAIL IS EXCELLENT. EVERYTHING HAS TO BE DONE TO PERFECTION

over the Lancashire Yorkshire border, where they met designer Chris Jardine.

Chris works alongside co-director Russell Ingham to provide a full turn-key service. As a family business that has been operating for more than four decades, Dovetail has forged a reputation for superb design and excellent customer service. Over the generations it has developed a skilled family team that designs and hand crafts wooden cabinetry for just about any room in the home – the ultimate in bespoke luxury.

Jasmine explains: “The Dovetail showroom was really lovely – so many fabulous kitchens! We met Chris and when we explained that I wanted a farmhouse kitchen and Maurice wanted to go down the contemporary route he said they could design something that would suit us both.

“He explained how their kitchens are hand crafted from tulip wood and oak and he had lots of ideas – he really understood what we wanted to achieve.”

Chris produced traditional visuals that were hand-drawn and invited the couple back to the showroom where they chatted

over cake and coffee: “The drawings were stunning!” says Jasmine.

“Chris was brilliant, we got on really well with him. He explained that as everything is totally bespoke, we could change things around as we wanted. He was an expert when it came to visualising different aspects of the kitchen.

Chris recalls: “I first met Maurice and Jasmine at the back end of 2021 when we discussed their plans for their new farmhouse that was to be built. Following months of planning and consultation our proposals started to come to fruition. We installed the summer of last year with works following through into late autumn.

illuminated glass-fronted understairs wine cellar, also designed by Chris.

Now complete, taking centre stage in the new kitchen is a huge granite topped island unit with beautiful pendant lighting and a gleaming black Everhot cooker. The porcelain farmhouse-style floor tiles were inspired by those seen in Dovetail’s showroom.

“We forged a really great relationship over this time and it was a real pleasure working with both of them.”

Soon after work began on their new kitchen, the couple knew they wanted the Dovetail team working on other rooms in the house. Impressed with Dovetail’s design and craftsmanship, Maurice and Jasmine asked Chris to design a utility area and boot room where the family’s walking and horse-riding gear are stored, an illuminated gun cabinet with a prep and cleaning area and a general utility with inbuilt pen giving the family dog his own quiet space.

In the kitchen’s open plan dining area that leads off to an impressive entrance hallway, Jasmine was keen for Dovetail to install panelling to the lower half of the walls.

Dovetail also panelled the study where Jasmine runs her nursery business and a small TV room off the entrance hallway, which has a stunning chandelier and an

From the full height hallway walking into the open plan kitchen the overall effect is of an elegant, cleverly designed living space that works on every level. Practical yet beautiful, every room has Dovetail’s stamp making it a thing of beauty, as Jasmine concludes: “Dovetail’s attention to detail is excellent. Everything has to be done to perfection.”

Dovetail

Colne Road, Cowling, Keighley BD22 0NN 01535 637770

kitchensatdovetail.co.uk

THE ENTRANCE HALLWAY HAS A STUNNING CHANDELIER AND AN ILLUMINATED, GLASSFRONTED UNDERSTAIRS WINE CELLAR

EXCLUSIVE CLEAN

rely on the team’s impeccable housekeeping and cleaning services.

“At Spring Clean we totally understand that every client has different requirements. We will initially visit the client to discuss and establish their needs in detail,” explains Leoni, who carries out work for private homeowners, commercial clients and holiday homes.

towels correctly and ensuring every home is spotless. We really do go the extra mile and our clients appreciate that.”

On the lookout to recruit, Leoni is searching for energetic, professionals to join her team: “Our next team member will need to be able to adapt to each clients’ requirement. They need to understand them and their lifestyle.”

The role for the new recruit will be to start part time and grow to full time in the next few months.

The founder of Spring Clean is Ribble Valley-based Leoni Langford, a young entrepreneur who spotted a gap in the market for a more flexible, high-quality service: “Within two weeks of launching we were fully booked!” says Leoni, who was educated in Malaga and at Oakhill in Whalley.

“At Spring Clean we want to venture away from the stereotypical view of a cleaner.”

Since launching, well-connected Leoni has promoted Spring Clean on social media and has had five-star Google reviews resulting in a client list that features many professionals who

With a proven track record for their attention to detail, the Spring Clean team have established themselves as a personal housekeeping service to include:

• Cleaning

• L inen laundering

• Ironing

• Household organising to include cupboards and wardrobes

• Shopping

With all members of the team CRB checked, this five-star service is delivered to perfection.

“We understand the importance of what we do, as clients trust us with their home and we care about that,” says Leoni.

“We also believe that personal touches are essential, such as leaving our delightful Spring Clean candles after visiting, folding

“We want individuals who take pride in their work,” says Leoni, who through Spring Clean, is supporting the charity Shelter by taking part in a fund-raising Three Peaks challenge this summer and spending Christmas lunch with the homeless. n

To find out more details about joining the Spring Clean team, email Leoni on: leonilangford@icloud.com

07940 150570 leonilangford@icloud.com

leonilangford

@springcleanbyleoni

A new and exclusive housekeeping-style cleaning service, Spring Clean, already has an impressive list of prestigious clients

WE UNDERSTAND THE IMPORTANCE OF WHAT WE DO, AS CLIENTS TRUST US WITH THEIR HOME AND WE CARE ABOUT THAT

Photography: Kirsten Platt

Photography: Kirsten Platt

NATURAL BEAUTY

Bannister Hall Nursery & Landscaping Materials Centre is now a premier retailer of the revolutionary, virtually natural, wood decking by Millboard, which offers the perfect solution for any commercial or residential outdoor project.

The go-to destination for specimen trees, shrubs and plants as well as all landscaping materials, for Bannister Hall becoming a Millboard retailer significantly enhances the company’s quality-led, product portfolio.

Operating for more than two decades, Bannister Hall is a family-run business, dedicated to environmentally ethical business practices and to providing a first-rate customer service.

Eco-friendly and of exceptional quality, Millboard products align perfectly with this ethos as Alan Lovell, MD at Bannister Hall Ltd, explains: “Millboard products are highly innovative and truly superior to other types of decking in terms of durability, variety and quality. The range will sit perfectly alongside our new Spanish porcelain tiles and natural stone paving ranges within our landscaping store. Millboard truly has the beauty of natural wood but without the maintenance downside.”

A LITTLE GARDEN INSPIRATION?

Many people use the bottom of the garden to store tools and hide things they don’t want near the house. It is often a less visited,

neglected part of the garden. So how about giving the bottom of your garden a makeover and making it a destination space? A tranquil area tucked away is an excuse to wander down a path or tiptoe barefoot across a lawn, a chance to decompress in nature. Time outdoors is good for mental health and ideal for reinvigorating the senses when taking a break from working from home.

JOURNEY

Part of the pleasure of reaching a destination is the journey – this can be so much more than a straight path cut through a lawn. A thoughtfully designed transitional space can really add to the effect of a journey, an archway with a climbing rose, a screen of scrambling ivy or a narrow-shaded passageway. A curved decking path can look sensational.

ARRIVAL

A raised decking area at the bottom of your garden with a different colour border really makes a feature out of it and gives the impression of it being an extra room.

Leading Lancashire nursery and garden landscapers, Bannister Hall has been appointed a North West premier Millboard supplier

SHADE

If you’re going to sit outside, and particularly if you are dining, you will definitely need some shade from the sun and shade can often shield a seating area from the cold wind too. Covered decking areas are very practical –a wraparound slatted design can be softened with climbing plants. Go dark with decking to complete the look. Millboard’s Enhanced Grain decking in Burnt Cedar has sophisticated warm brown and black tones.

WHY CHOOSE MILLBOARD?

• It’s resistant to algae, unlike wood, there is no protein content to assist algal growth within the boards.

• It’s also environmentally friendly as the base materials have low impact on global warming.

• M illboard is hygienic as it has a nonporous surface that is easy to clean for spills and deposits.

Pergolas are a timeless method of providing respite from the midday sun – any manner of plants can be used to climb up and across to provide shade.

Sail shades and awnings are a cheerful option –combine with Weathered Oak decking in Driftwood for a tranquil, holiday feel. Or if you prefer a painted look, without the bother of having to paint, take a look at Brushed Basalt, Millboard’s most authentic painted-wood-look decking available. Add a bistro heater in the cooler months to extend the outdoor season.

Shade doubles up as privacy as well – a row of bamboo can also work and provides pleasant sound and movement in the wind. Take care to choose wisely and take precautions against it spreading too much.

REAL WOOD LOOK

Millboard is virtually indistinguishable from natural real wood, it has all the aesthetic benefits, without the upkeep and it’s handmoulded from natural timbers.

The decking uses a unique material unrivalled across the globe which consistently out-performs natural timber and composite decking.

The Weathered Oak range, for example is moulded from over a century-old oak board and the Enhanced Grain range is exquisitely rendered from refined timber and hand-coloured in true-to-life tonal shades.

• It has UV and weathering stability and has been tested in most weathers and temperatures so remains UV stable.

• The boards are slip resistant with a high grip surface which is much safer than wood, especially in the wet.

• It’s lightweight making it easy to handle and install.

• M illboard is low maintenance and resists stains from food or drinks spills and algae growth.

• It benefits from lost-head fixing – Durafix fixings are virtually hidden beneath the unique Lastane surface.

• M illboard is moulded from real oak –not extruded like most composites.

• It doesn’t warp or rot like real wood.

• It’s splinter free – the way Millboard is manufactured means absolutely no splinters.

• M illboard has a low carbon footprint –it’s independently and UKAS accredited to the ISO 14064-1 Verified Carbon Footprint Assurance Mark.

SPECIAL

10%

MILLBOARD IS VIRTUALLY INDISTINGUISHABLE FROM NATURAL REAL WOOD, IT HAS ALL THE AESTHETIC BENEFITS, WITHOUT THE UPKEEP

SELECTION AND VISUALISATION

Choosing your Millboard decking is a significant decision and one that you will want to get right. At Bannister Hall, the team makes it easy with free samples sent to your home and a wide range of Millboard decking to view and choose in-store. n

Bannister Hall can also arrange ‘approved expert’ installation of all Millboard products. Contact the team today to discover more about Millboard decking and cladding.

Bannister Hall

Potter Lane, Higher Walton

Preston PR5 4EN

01772 877087

bannisterhall.com

to the rear of the property. The homeowner was thrilled to learn she could have the crittall style products she wanted without the expensive steel price tag.

The Allstyle Heritage collection is manufactured from Smart Alitherm profiles that are designed to replicate ‘crittall’ style steel glazing products and are the ideal solution as they have period charm but come packed with modern technology, making them suitable for contemporary living. The profiles feature innovative polyamide thermal break technology, which creates a barrier between the cold air outside and the warm air inside.

A MODERN CLASSIC

In a renovation that has worked on every level, new windows, doors and a glass atrium have transformed an early 19th century coastal property

Alovely Victorian house that has been renovated over a two-year period, has proved that mixing classic and contemporary really does work.

During the recent refurbishment, this 120-year-old Poulton-le-Fylde property has been totally transformed with a contemporary extension and new energy efficient windows and doors to create a seamless blend of old and new.

Thanks to Affordable Window Systems, part of the Affordable Windows Group, this house has become a fabulous home that is eco-friendly and now, draught proof!

Affordable Windows Group (AWG) is one of the largest window manufacturers in the UK and has a wide range of systems to suit all types of property including new build, contemporary and heritage homes. The experts at AWG manufacture energy-efficient windows and doors using sustainable materials reducing the impact on the environment.

THE WINDOWS AND DOORS ARE DESIGNED TO REPLICATE ‘CRITTALL’ STYLE STEEL GLAZING PRODUCTS AND ARE THE IDEAL SOLUTION AS THEY HAVE PERIOD CHARM BUT COME PACKED WITH MODERN TECHNOLOGY

The owner of the Poulton-le-Fylde property, which was bought in 2019, had a good idea of what she wanted to achieve in terms of looks and practicality.

Ideally situated near to the town centre and railway, the front of the property required re-pointing while the back needed a white all-over rough-cast render.

Old ill-fitting UPVC windows meant the whole house was draughty so, as a priority, the new owner immediately contacted Affordable Window Systems, who supplied her with the name of a trusted, local window installer. The window installer guided her through AWS’s wide range of products helping her to narrow down to the most appropriate for the project. The homeowner decided upon a mixture of traditional windows to the front of the property along with more modern windows and doors from Affordable Window Systems Allstyle Heritage collection

The Allstyle Heritage system was the perfect solution for this stunning renovation which had vertical sliding sashes installed in cream at the front and Painswick green to the back with Allstyle Heritage French doors and a glass atrium style extension, which also included aluminium windows, roof and bi-fold doors in Painswick green, all supplied by Affordable Window Systems.

The slim profile of the bi-fold doors also allows more natural light into the extension bringing the outside in and affording lovely views of the garden.

The end result is stunning – a heritage property that has undergone an extensive renovation that works on every level. The new atrium, doors and windows have retained the original charm of the building, while making it a perfect space for eco-friendly, contemporary living. n

Affordable Window Systems

Cornford House, 20 Cornford Road

Blackpool FY4 4QQ

sales@awcg.co.uk

a-w-s.co.uk

MEET THE DESIGNER

Sally Sutcliffe from Bee Creative Designs talks about her mission to build a creative crafting community in Clitheroe and reconnect with East Lancashire’s rich textile heritage

When former textiles teacher Sally Sutcliffe met soft furnishings maker Jane Staples in late 2019, it was the beginning of a truly magical partnership. Starting out on the kitchen table, Sally and Jane began to build a business making beautiful soft furnishings in the Ribble Valley.

“Our plan was to just have a go and help out family and friends with bespoke curtains, blinds and cushions, but word soon spread and we decided to launch a soft furnishings business, where you could actually meet the makers and get to know the people whose hands had stitched your curtains,” explained Sally.

Having studied textile design at university, Sally really wanted to reinvigorate the textile and craft heritage of Clitheroe and the Ribble Valley: “We live in an area that was once at the heart of British textiles and while the mills may have closed, the areas’ rich textile heritage remains part of the very fabric of Clitheroe and the wider Ribble Valley.”

From starting out on the kitchen table, Bee Creative expanded quickly, literally taking over Sally’s house, until they took the plunge and secured a business unit on Hawthorn Business Park, near Collins White tiles and Leaping Lizards last summer.

“It’s all been a bit Elves and the Shoemaker,”

EVERYONE’S AMAZED WHEN THEY WALK IN THE DOOR, IT’S A WONDERFULLY RELAXED SPACE TO GET THE CREATIVITY FLOWING

said Sally. “We kept reinvesting in the business, buying more fabric or new machines while working on our main projects. Our new location is the perfect place for us – we’ve created a light and airy studio for ourselves and others to, literally, be creative.”

And indeed the space is inspirational –there are views of the castle and Clitheroe skyline to the front of the workshop and scenic views of Pendle and the open countryside to the rear. With easy access and plenty of free parking, the ladies have made the space a feel-good place to be.

The workshop is open on weekdays from 9am to 4.30pm and visitors are very welcome to pop in to discuss projects, browse fabric samples or just chat about interiors in general. Sal and Jane are also happy to visit prospective clients’ homes for consultations.

“We want people to feel welcome in our environment,” said Jane. “It’s a workshop, first and foremost, but customers can sit and browse through an interiors magazine with a tea or coffee whilst chatting to us, look at fabric samples or pick our brains for design ideas.”

From a home measuring service, to making the furnishings and organising fitting, Sally and Jane take the stress out of each step of the process.

“Our approach is slightly different because we will make your curtains from any fabric. We work in collaboration with local fabric suppliers to help you choose the most suitable for your job, but we also re-make curtains and

and people are getting to know what we do and where we are,” said Sally. “But I just can’t get the teaching bug out of my system – I love sharing knowledge and seeing people flourish.

“Making something beautiful is a great flow activity and gives you such a sense of achievement – so it’s not just Jane and myself ‘being creative’, we really want to inspire and encourage others to find their happy place.

“On the crafting side we’ve started off with some one-day workshops and evening classes – split into dressmaking skills and general, arts and crafts sewing skills. We are looking to expand this and we’re talking to local community groups to offer workshops throughout the year.

“We want to collaborate with people and offer more courses in our workshop. Ultimately, it’s about building a bigger and better sense of community for anyone interested in interiors and crafts. It’s these social threads that bind us together.” n

do alterations, as we love a bit of upcycling and appreciate that not everyone can afford to splash out on metres of fabric to make new curtains from scratch.”

And more is yet to come: “The interiors side of the business is now quite well established

01200 871536

hello@beecreativedesigns.org

beecreativedesigns.org

WHILE THE MILLS MAY HAVE CLOSED, THE AREAS’ RICH TEXTILE HERITAGE REMAINS PART OF THE VERY FABRIC OF CLITHEROE AND THE WIDER RIBBLE VALLEY

as a guide make a shallow trench. Sprinkle seeds carefully and evenly along the row so that they fall to the bottom of the trench. Cover seeds with a layer of soil then gently water using a watering can with a sprinkler head. Sow seeds to the depth recommended on the packet.

SOW THOSE SEEDS!

For most of us March is the start of the gardening year. It’s a month of digging and sowing and a time to get busy preparing seed beds, cutting back winter shrubs and generally tidying up

In addition to getting vegetable and flower seeds started in the greenhouse or undercover in March, you can also sow hardy seeds outside into their final positions – depending on where you live in the UK.

Your garden’s climatic conditions will affect when you sow and plant out. In the south that’s going to be March, but the further north you live it will be early or even late April, dependent on frost.

So, thrifty tip for the month is to make seed sowing your garden mantra this year. Seeds are cheap, or free if you harvest your own and once you have mastered seed sowing you can create a glorious floral or veg haven for hardly any cost. A packet containing about 100 seeds can cost a fraction of the price of one plant and will keep you going for a couple of years as it’s unlikely you will use them all in one go.

Many seeds can be sowed straight into the ground either in rows or simply scattered, but some prefer to start off life in seed trays under

cover and then be planted out once seedlings are robust enough for the outdoor environment. You can recycle plastic food trays for growing seeds inside or in a greenhouse –just make a few holes in the bottom for drainage. Always read the seed packet for sowing instructions and if you can get hold of some seed compost that can make a difference to your success rate – and don’t forget to label.

If sowing in rows straight into the ground, break up large clods of soil, remove stones and rake over then using a taught string line

Annuals are prime candidates for scatter sowing and you can easily fill a bare border or space with a riot of colour in just a couple of months. From mid-spring to early summer simply scatter your flower seeds directly onto finely raked garden soil in a sunny spot, rake them in and water well but gently. No nonsense easy annuals to grow from seed include nasturtiums, sweet peas, cosmos, nigella, marigolds, Californian poppies and cornflowers.

Spring flowers such as daffodils are now coming to the end of their flowering period so it may be time to think about deadheading as a little care now will keep bulbs healthy. Let the leaves yellow and wither naturally, so they return nutrients to the bulb. If the weather turns dry, they will benefit from watering, and if they are growing in pots, feed weekly with a potassium-rich fertiliser such as tomato feed. n

RHS GARDENER’S MARCH CHECKLIST

• Plant onions, shallots and potatoes

• Chit early and main potatoes

• Plant out strawberries

• Plant summer flowering bulbs

• L ift and divide large clumps of perennials

• Top dress containers with fresh compost

• Mow lawn on dry days if needed

• Hoe and mulch weeds to keep t hem under control

• Start feeding pond fish

• Protect new spring shoots f rom slugs

We are a family run business based in the heart of the Ribble Valley. With 15 years industry experience we offer a personalised project management service tailored to fulfil your exact requirements.

Our high quality bespoke kitchens are individually designed in any configuration or colour at competitive prices.

A ROOM THAT DESERVES TO DAZZLE

The utility room might play more of a backing singer role but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t deserve to dazzle. If yours is looking a bit on the tired side or if you’re about to embark on a new kitchen and don’t want your utility room to be left out of the action, follow Grazzie Wilson’s go-to tips:

FORM & FUNCTION

Those two terms don’t have to be mutually exclusive – with tiles, you really can have

it all. But, when it comes to those parts of your home that are going to have a bit of rough and tumble thrown their way, it pays dividends to think about function first. Your utility room might not be the heart of your home like the kitchen, but it’s still a busy place, and it’s likely that you’ll use it for laundry washing and airing, mountains of washing up and possibly a bunch of boot room tasks like kicking off wellies and drying the dog, post walk.

That means, you’ll want tiles to withstand damp conditions. Go for a hardy porcelain or tactile terracotta, because they look all the better for a little (or a lot) of love and use.

TEXTURE

Think about what sort of tile won’t show up every speck of life’s hurly-burly. Even for those with a home as neat as a pin, the constant spotting of crumbs or mud brought in from

All hail the utility room. That saviour of a space that not just connects to your kitchen but supports it with all those tasks that you’d rather keep out of the way

the great outdoors can be a frustrating way to live. If that rings true for you, consider picking a floor tile that’s textured in some way, be that a tumbled edge, a rugged finish or even through dappled, natural stone tones or a characterful wood-effect grain – visual texture counts too.

LIFESTYLE

If home is for you and you alone, and you’re a spick and span sort, then a luxe, marble-clad utility room could work out just fine. It would be sublime! But if your home story is three sports-loving children, a shaggy dog and a cat, a tile that makes life that bit easier is as important as one that looks the part after all.

CONNECTIVITY

Some utility rooms are separated by nothing more than an arch or a partition wall and so are in theory still part of your kitchen. Even those that have a fully-fledged door between them are still, in essence, an extension of your kitchen, typically sharing the same cabinetry. To create a seamless flow, be sure to think about whether your tiles can act as a stepping-stone. Ask yourself, do you want the same flooring to bond the two spaces? Or would you rather change the pace, keeping the cabinetry and work surfaces the same but switching up your flooring to effectively draw a dividing line. If it’s the latter, it’s still important to choose complementary floor tiles. Perhaps you have a sandy limestone in the kitchen but you want to switch up to a much darker slate-coloured one in the utility.

BE BRAVE

Often hallmarked as the room to be a bit bold, the downstairs loo isn’t the only place to have some fun. Utility rooms are smaller pocket rooms and not somewhere you’ll be spending all of your time, so you can afford to push the boundaries a little. You can do that through paint colour – maybe you have neutral paint in your kitchen with a burst of colour on your island. In your utility, you could take that

accent colour across all of your cabinetry visually linking but with a bold difference. Or is there a tile that drew you in but you felt would be too lively in your kitchen but could live quite happily in your utility room? Let your imagination run wild! n

capietra.com

...for

20%OFF LEICHTKITCHENS

STUNNING NEW KITCHENS

Somax Kitchens, based near Clitheroe, are excited to introduce Leicht

“After spending several weeks in Germany looking at other kitchen brands, we fell in love with Leicht Kitchens and are thrilled to be launching this exciting new range here at Somax,” says owner and designer Toby Lister.

“Leicht are leaders in German kitchen design and the company hits all our requirements in terms of quality, flexibility and innovative designs and finishes, that Somax Kitchens are renowned for.

This is an exciting time for Somax and we’re really looking forward to offering Leicht to our customers.” n

Somax will be displaying the new range from the middle of March and will be offering a 20 per cent discount on all Leicht kitchen furniture ordered before the end of July 2023. Call into their showroom at Shackleton’s Home & Garden to speak to Toby and his team to find out more.

“I’ve been designing with German kitchens for over 25 years and Leicht is at the forefront of cutting edge, architectural design and is an industry leader for new styles and materials,” says Toby.

“They offer a really stunning choice of both contemporary and traditional kitchens.

LEICHT ARE LEADERS IN GERMAN KITCHEN DESIGN AND THE COMPANY FULFILS ALL OUR REQUIREMENTS IN TERMS OF QUALITY, FLEXIBILITY AND INNOVATIVE DESIGN

Somax Kitchens at Shackleton’s Home & Garden Clitheroe Road, Chatburn BB7 4JY 01200 441995

somaxkitchens.co.uk

SPRING IS IN THE AIR

Yes! The season of new beginnings is upon us, so why not treat your living space to a wonderful media wall?

The latest in lifestyle furnishing, combining TV and music centre with the best international electric fires, media walls help to de-clutter your space, and create an enviable centrepiece in your home. We also offer special wall finishes such as Venetian plastering or microcement to truly enhance the effect. Why not call in and chat with our experts - we love talking fires!

WE ARE RECRUITING DELIVERY PEOPLE

YEAR!

Live Magazines need enthusiastic and reliable delivery people to join our established teams across the Ribble Valley.

These opportunities are ideally suited to distributors working independently across two or three areas.

To do this you’ll need to be physically fit, have access to your own transport and have somewhere to store the magazines.

WE ARE LOOKING FOR PEOPLE ACROSS THE RIBBLE VALLEY INCLUDING:

DOWNHAM, RIMMINGTON AND TWISTON

PERFECT OUTDOOR LIVING

century ago, ensuring quality and attention to detail in every decking we install.”

Having a base at Shackleton’s Garden Centre in Chatburn for 12 years gives customers the ideal place to view the designs, products and available options: “We’re excited to be showcasing our Deckorators range with our new display at Shackletons.”

• The wood-plastic composite decking options, Vista and Trailhead, are both robust decking solutions without the maintenance of traditional timber decking – they give the appearance of exotic hardwood without the maintenance or cost.

Outdoor living spaces are an extension of our homes and personal style, and Whalley Construction are experts in guiding their customers to choose the best decking to suit their home and lifestyle.

“We only ever work with world leaders in composite decking,” says Andrew Whalley owner of Whalley Construction.

“We are proud to be the sole supplier in the north west of England of American company Deckorators who offer inspiration and innovation in materials, colours, textures and styles for the highest quality decking.

“Deckorators take the enjoyment of personalising your outdoor living space to a whole new level,” Andrew adds. “Their composite decking, deck railing, balusters and post caps make it easy for customers to stylishly extend their living space outside.”

Based in Darwen, Whalley Construction has a long family history of experience in the building trade and a high level of skill and craftmanship has been passed down through the generations: “My great, great grandfather’s company – RJ Whalley Contractors, built Darwen Tower in 1898,” Andrew says.

“And, we take the same level of pride in every project we do today as he did over a

WHALLEY

Deckorators have three ranges with each offering unique benefits to any decking project:

• The Voyage mineral-based composite decking delivers the industry’s best strength-to-weight ratio and has almost no thermal expansion or contraction.

It has unmatched strength that is nearly 35 per cent lighter than traditional composites and similar in weight to PVC.

“Having a long career and years’ of experience laying decking, I know what works and how best to advise customers.

I am confident that we only ever use the highest quality products combined with skilled craftmanship.” Andrew adds.

“ The decking from Deckorators is built to last and never has to be sealed, stained or painted. It is slip-resistant and there are no splinters or cracks to worry about. Composite boards won’t warp or fade in the sunlight and there is no need to worry about the decking bowing – we are confident to supply and install decking for our customers and know we have the knowledge and experience to only recommend the very best.” n

Whalley Construction

Unit 10 Hallmoss Business Park Bolton Road, Darwen BB3 2TT 0800 955 6566

hello@whalleyconstruction.co.uk

whalleyconstruction.co.uk

With over 20 years’ experience installing and trading decking, Whalley Construction are pleased to introduce a fabulous new range, writes Gail Bailey

CONSTRUCTION HAS A LONG FAMILY HISTORY OF EXPERIENCE IN THE BUILDING TRADE AND A HIGH LEVEL OF SKILL AND CRAFTMANSHIP HAS BEEN PASSED DOWN THROUGH THE GENERATIONS

Proudly installing the UK’s rst

Composite decking display at Shackleton’s Home & Garden, Chatburn.

Settle brown distressed boot £185 lanxshoes.com

Chipping black boot £175 lanxshoes.com

Modo titanium glasses £300

The Spectacle Factory Unit 1 Dewhurst Row

Bamber Bridge Preston PR5 6BB 01772

REFINED COLLECTIONS

Call in to meet the team at Scruples 1984 and discover world-leading, luxury brands in the heart of Barrowford. Photography: Kirsten Platt

Renowned for their exquisite gentleman’s clothing collections, the team at Scruples 1984 have taken a refined approach to its S/S collections, choosing only the best signature names for which it has become well known.

Founder Stephen Collins and retail manager Tom Orrell, are looking forward to hosting collections from their travels to Milan for their 2023 S/S buying expedition.

This season, they introduce Canali, one of the most prestigious, luxury menswear suiting brands in the world and a fantastic addition to the Scruples portfolio.

Tom explains: “We are delighted to offer our customers such an exclusive opportunity from Canali, which produces stunning suits and knitwear for summer. It’s a whole new journey for us working with Canali and we are delighted with the pieces.

“ The Canali showroom is set within a series of luxury apartments and shared outdoor space with the Inter Milan HQ. For Scruples to be supported by such a prestigious brand as Canali is phenomenal!”

Being ultimately selective with their latest collections, Tom and Stephen have opted for the best names in the business.

Heritage British brand Belstaff, known for their classic waxed country jackets, have launched a limited edition Aloe green suede

jacket – ideal for spring: “We are finding that each brand is bringing out something special,” says Tom.

Always keen to add a pop of colour to any outfit, Tom is delighted to see new designs from the likes of Paul & Shark, denim by Italian stretch specialist Tramarossa and French-Canadian brand Mackage, who have a fabulous new collection of hoodies and casual wear with a real spring pop!

an upsurge in customers who want a smarter look: “Customers are wanting a smart jacket and contrasting trousers – the made to measure side of the business is always busy but we have experienced a real upturn.”

Having direct access to some of the world’s best fabrics including Loro Piana – a name that graces the exclusive malls of Dubai and Monaco, Scruples 1984 has a speedy, made-to-measure four-week turnaround: “This year’s on-trend colours are similar to last year but we are seeing a new take on the classic navy suit – everyone has one, but combining the design opportunities with made-to-measure makes it so much more exciting” says Tom.

THE CANALI SHOWROOM IS SET WITHIN A SERIES OF LUXURY APARTMENTS AND SHARED OUTDOOR SPACE WITH THE INTER MILAN HQ

E xpect to see continental beachwear brand Vilebrequin at Scruples too alongside playful shirt designs by ETON, plus the arrival of a small and exclusive, new collection of Jeffrey West shoes, in soft suede, which has caused a flurry of interest and excitement at the Barrowford store.

But let’s not forget what Scruples 1984 has become renowned for – exquisite made-tomeasure tailoring. Having its own in-store tailoring brand Rupert Totti, Scruples is seeing

“Our customers love the fact that they can make an item of clothing totally unique to them. January was one of our busiest months ever with regards to made-to-measure. It’s been amazing!” n

Scruples 1984  85-87 Gisburn Road, Barrowford BB9 6DX 01282 695770

scruplesmenswear.co.uk

@scruplesmenswear

@scruplesmens

SOUTHPORTS’ PREMIER LADIES FASHION RETAILER

SOUTHPORTS’ PREMIER LADIES FASHION RETAILER

SOUTHPORTS’ PREMIER LADIES FASHION RETAILER

SOUTHPORTS’ PREMIER LADIES FASHION RETAILER

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

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

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

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

Allow me to introduce myself. I am the eternal Mademoiselle. Born in the immortal image of Coco herself.

I am pre-loved fashion with a capital ‘F’. As sustainable as I am desirable.

My timeless brushed Gold has caused younger models to curse me and covet me in equal measure.

You can usually find me in the owner’s enclosure at Ascot, Epsom’s Royal Box and, for a short time only, on our website, www.theatelier.world or @theatelier_world

Chanel Mademoiselle Chic Bag in Grey Lambskin and Brushed Gold Hardware. 2015/2016. Price £5495.

PUT A SPRING IN YOUR STEP

Fitright footwear is no ordinary shoe shop. When you visit fitright you can be assured that you are in for a footwear experience like no other. Book your appointment now and discover what’s in store.

Photography: Kirsten Platt

Unlike your average high street shoe shop, fitright footwear is a completely unique, specialist, independent, retail shoe shop. Here we measure, advise, help you choose and fit your footwear for you. An appointment only system ensures that each customer is individually catered for by our professional team of shoe fitters from start to finish.

We pride ourselves on our ability to help customers select the right shoe – one that is comfortable, fits correctly and is fit for purpose.

Fitright footwear stock an extensive range of amazing, high-quality footwear and brands, some of which cannot be found on the everyday high street. Our shoes come in a variety of different widths, depths, sizes and styles with removable insoles – accommodating feet of all shapes and sizes.

there are many people wearing the wrong shoes for their feet. This is more common and causes more foot problems than you may think. Shoes are often either too short, not wide or deep enough, too long or even the wrong shape entirely. By visiting fitright footwear, we offer our customers the opportunity to find footwear that fits and help with any problems they may be experiencing. This could be anything from corns to bunions, plantar fasciitis to Morton’s neuroma.

matter what the label says inside – if it’s uncomfortable, it’s not the item for you and you wouldn’t dream of buying it no matter how good you think it looks. When buying shoes, the same principles are applied.

Buying correctly fitting footwear is essential in order to keep you and your feet healthy. Unfortunately having foot problems can stop you from getting out and about. Our footwear can help with this. If it’s comfortable, fitted correctly and fit for purpose, the right shoe can make a big difference to our health and wellbeing. n

If you would like correctly fitting, comfortable footwear, treat your feet and book your appointment at fitright footwear now

Appointments only: Wednesday to Saturday between 10am and 5pm

Fitright Footwear

We have extensive product knowledge that enables us to carefully select shoes for our customers to try, once they have described what it is they need or are looking for.

With recommendations and referrals from podiatrists, chiropodists, physiotherapists and hospital podiatry departments, it is clear

However, you don’t have to have foot problems to appreciate our footwear – all our fabulous shoes can be worn by anyone who is looking for excellent, quality footwear, fitted personally during a one-to-one appointment.

Feet are as individual as you are. There is not a ‘one size fits all’. When purchasing footwear, it’s about finding what your feet are looking for and a measurement is just the start –a guide only. Like clothing it really doesn’t

32D King Street, Clitheroe BB7 2EP 01200 425399

clitheroe@fitrightfootwear.co.uk

3 Bower Road, Harrogate HG1 1BB 01423 561172

harrogate@fitrightfootwear.co.uk fitrightfootwear.co.uk

comfort.fit.style

_fitright

THE RIGHT SHOE CAN MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE TO OUR HEALTH AND WELLBEING

CELEBRATIONS ALL ROUND

The team at michelle.b are celebrating! Founder Michelle Berkins reflects on what an incredible time they have experienced since the launch of the business 18 years ago

It is testament to Michelle Berkin’s enduring, elegant sense of style that her fashion business continues to go from strength to strength.

Celebrating 18 years, michelle.b, in the heart of Barrowford, has from the outset, been renowned for its classic worldwide brands. Today the likes of Weekend Max Mara, Riani, Vilagallo, Marc Cain, Ottod’Ame, Hale Bob and Moschino feature in the michelle.b portfolio. Despite changes in trends, over the years Michelle has continued to wow customers with her diligent choice of personally selected stock: “When I first started out, I used to go to Paris and London to buy but now most of the European fashion houses have bases in London.

“Back then customers would come to michelle.b for a really special ‘black tie’ dress. We stocked Jenny Packham, Roland Mouret and Missoni – all the top labels.

“It was very much investment dressing and while that still remains, today ladies want their outfits to work a lot harder – they buy a beautiful dress that can be worn with heels or trainers that will will take them to the races or out to supper with friends,” explains Michelle, who previously spent 20 years as a textile designer.

“I had intended to go into interior design but that all changed when my husband Kevin bought me the Barrowford shop as a surprise. He just gave me a set of keys and I spent nine months restoring it.

“It just lent itself to fashion – I did all the interior design and we had a fantastic opening night with doormen in red tuxedos and a band!”

Fast forward almost two decades and Michelle can’t believe just how successful her venture continues to be: “I still have some of my original customers – they are very loyal. The shop has become a real social hub. Some customers will just pop in for a chat and a coffee, which is lovely.”

Michelle and the seven-strong michelle.b team are now looking forward to celebrating their anniversary: “You see other shops closing but we are thriving and I am very grateful for that. I can’t believe how quickly the time has flown by – it’s been an incredible journey!” n

michelle.b

2/3 King Edward Terrace

Gisburn Road, Barrowford BB9 8NJ 01282 605060

michellebshop.co.uk

I CAN’T BELIEVE HOW QUICKLY THE TIME HAS FLOWN BY – IT’S BEEN AN INCREDIBLE JOURNEY!

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SPRING STYLE

Accessories from the latest collections will effortlessly take you from spring into summer

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2/3 King Edward Terrace Gisburn Rd Barrowford Lancashire BB9 8NJ michellebshop.co.uk 01282 605060

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

RADLEY LONDON MAR FINSBURY PARK 60'S FLORAL BAG £129 radley.co.uk

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OVER 150 5 STAR REVIEWS ON GOOGLE

“Always an excellent service, great choice of frames and sound advice to help pick frames that work for me. Wouldn’t think of going anywhere else!”

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JO MALONE LONDON ROSE BLUSH COLOGNE £82 jomalone.com

SKIN CONFIDENCE

Since my late 20s, I’ve looked a er my skin, having regular facial treatments and using good quality products every day. Despite this, I had pigmentation and sun damage which were becoming more extensive and weren’t responding to my current beauty treatments or products. I was becoming more selfconscious about the appearance of my skin, especially as makeup didn’t really help either.

“I was encouraged by my regular beauty therapist to see someone else to explore whether there were treatments that could make a di erence to my skin. Until I met Dr Montero at Discover Laser Medical Skin Clinic in Burnley, I hadn’t realised other options might even be available.

“I had several appointments with the clinic therapists and Dr Montero, where my skin was thoroughly assessed and photographed, and di erent treatment options were discussed and explained to me.”

“I had reservations about how painful the actual treatment would be and how long the downtime would be. But by the time I came to have treatment, whilst I wasn’t looking forward to the procedure itself, I was de nitely con dent I was in the right place with the right clinician and had no questions unanswered. The downtime estimates and a ercare processes were exactly as predicted.

“My skin post-treatment is better than I could ever have hoped! It improved in the immediate months following the procedure, and continues to get better.

“So many people have commented on how ‘well’ I look without really knowing why. I can use less makeup, and it sits so

much better on my skin now as it is much more even and smooth.

“Everyone at Discover Laser is knowledgeable and friendly and can’t do enough to help you. The clinic is clean, calm and welcoming, and you continue to receive follow-up care and regular reviews a er your treatment. It’s also possible to continue to go to the clinic for regular treatments to help maintain your new skin too!

“I hadn’t realised, until I did my research, and had my treatment, just how lucky we are to have access to the correct laser equipment and the skills of Dr Montero here on our doorstep in Lancashire - there are very few of these options outside London.

“For anyone considering having treatment, just book an appointment with Dr Montero to discuss potential treatment options, especially if you are unsure. He explains things in an easy-to-understand, non-pressured way which will help you make the right choice - at all times, he is calm, extremely knowledgeable and approachable.”

The patient chose to have UltraPulse CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing, a highly e ective treatment using the most powerful CO2 laser in medicine. The laser’s intense energy penetrates deeply into damaged skin to precisely remove it, triggering the regeneration of collagen and elastin. UltraPulse isn’t like a traditional CO2 laser, which removes all the skin and results in a lot of downtime and potential scarringsome skin is le untouched, which massively speeds up the healing process. 

To book your UltraPulse® Consultation - call Discover Laser’s friendly team on 01282 420886 to book an appointment.

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

Time and sun exposure take their toll on skin and confidenceas one Discover Laser patient explains, choosing a treatment and practitioner to meet your needs is the key to restoring both

I WAS BECOMING MORE SELF-CONSCIOUS ABOUT THE APPEARANCE OF MY SKIN, ESPECIALLY AS MAKEUP DIDN’T REALLY HELP EITHER.

MY SKIN POSTTREATMENT IS BETTER THAN I COULD EVER HAVE HOPED!

CROW WOOD, ROYLE LANE, BURNLEY BB12

LOOK YOUNGER, FEEL YOUR YOUTHFUL SELF AGAIN!

You can rediscover your youthful looks with safe and effective, highly advanced, non-invasive new technologies

To complement the superb PlasmaPen treatments which have achieved tremendous success over many years, Emma Pearce from EMA Skin Aesthetics Ltd has invested in a highly advanced machine, the 7D Focused Ultrasound.

The Ultra 7D is the latest non-surgical technology using Micro-Macro Focused Ultrasound (MMFU) to deliver a non-invasive face, neck and body lifting treatment. It is best known for tightening skin with optimal results and is a non-surgical and painless replacement for facelifts. It boosts collagen production giving a firmer and natural rejuvenating effect to the skin.

The impressive list of benefits include:

• E limination of moderate to highly saggy skin

• T ightening, lifting and contouring of facial skin

and many other areas of the body

• A s afe, advanced and non-surgical treatment

• C reates a natural rejuvenating effect

• No needles and no downtime therefore enabling you to go back to normal life immediately

• L ook like a younger version of yourself without the need for surgery

The technology is unique in its ability to penetrate the dermis and the Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System (SMAS) layer, which is deeper than all other non-invasive treatments. The SMAS layer is the same area tightened during conventional surgery, however, unlike surgery, 7D is more affordable and requires no downtime.

7D non-surgical face lift and 7D body sculpting delivers exceptional results, treating the following areas:

• Forehead wrinkles

• F rown lines

• Brow lift

• C row’s feet

• F ine lines

• Smile lines

• Double chin

• Sagging skin

• Neck wrinkles

• Turkey neck

• Tummy

• Thighs

• Arms

The 7D Focused Ultrasound is not only good for skin lifting and tightening, it also helps with lines, wrinkles, pores, skin tone and laxity. Just one session can tighten and lift the skin, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve skin tone, providing visible results that will last up to three years.

Any areas of the body can be treated with 7D and it is highly effective for skin laxity in the

“I’m extremely delighted with the results that Emma has achieved for me. I’ve had both PlasmaPen and the 7D Ultrasound on my marionette and jowl area. This is something I did to make me happy. I wanted to regain the confidence I used to have and make me feel better. I couldn’t be more pleased, so much so, I’ve now booked to have the neck lift. Thank you Emma for accomplishing all my expectations and more.”

Denise N

tightens the deepest layers of skin for the best lift and tightening results. So, the two treatments are absolutely ideal when used together, delivering amazing results every time.”

Emma has spent nearly 22 years in the industry and has gained a tremendous amount of experience, knowledge and skill during her highly accomplished career in the spa and aesthetic sector. She stresses the importance of being treated only by professionals, who have the capability and expertise to treat people safely, respectfully and effectively. She is renowned for providing treatments and care that are second to none in conjunction with results that clients have been absolutely delighted with.

Emma concluded: “You’re never too old to make an astounding improvement to your skin and self-confidence. And the best thing is, you can achieve this without the need for any surgery!” n

SPECIAL INTRODUCTORY OFFER

7D Focused Ultrasound. £185 OFF each area. Areas start from £300. PlasmaPen £175 off each area. Areas start from £250 per area. Offers end 31st March 2023

stomach, hands, arms, knees and thigh areas.

Emma has accomplished 100 per cent client satisfaction with PlasmaPen treatments which is perfect for tightening and erasing sagging jowls, turkey necks, marionette lines, smile and smokers’ lines around the

lips, crow’s feet, puffy eyes, drooping eyelids, chest lines and more.

Emma commented: “The PlasmaPen and the 7D work beautifully together. Plasma plumps out the lines and tightens the fibroblast wall, whilst Ultrasound 7D lifts and

All AFTER images show results after three weeks, full results achieved after three months

EMA Skin Aesthetics Ltd

Upstairs at Toni & Guy

86 Fishergate

Preston PR1 2NJ

01772 821600

07547 802062

scrub and the final stop in the spa trail was the outdoor hot tub to enjoy a glass of ‘bubbles in the bubbles’ whilst taking in the stunning scenery.

SPA & SPICE AND ALL THINGS NICE!

Several years ago, I was lucky enough to experience the spa trail at the Gilpin Lake House but at the time it was only available to hotel guests. However, I am thrilled to share that they are about to launch a new Spa & Spice experience that will be available to non-residents as well. To say I was excited for a preview, would be an understatement as Gilpin ranks up there as one of my favourite establishments and my long-time bestie, Siobhan came along for the ride.

Based within the grounds of the hotel, the new Gilpin Spa Space is simply stunning and effortlessly stylish, creating a calm and tranquil cocoon where you immediately feel yourself relax. After enjoying a welcome drink and a brief chat with our therapist we were off to the ‘shack’ to get ready for our spa experience. Having not been to Gilpin, Siobhan was a little concerned that we would be getting changed in the equivalent of a shed, which did make me smile, as the ‘shack’ was an uber luxurious changing area that I was immediately coveting for my own. Underfloor heating, double shower, incredible forest green toilet to tie in with the flora and fern-inspired décor meant it

couldn’t have been less shack-like if it tried!

Once changed and into the supplied fluffy robes and flip flops it was off to one of the two double treatment rooms. Having chosen our preferred aromas, with phones locked away

With stomachs rumbling it was off to the Asian inspired, two AA Rosette restaurant, Gilpin Spice for lunch. With another glass of bubbles, we enjoyed the most amazing, perfectly presented feather blade Cumbrian beef red curry and sweet and sour Cumbrian pork belly, followed by a shared spiced Jamaican ginger pudding, served with rum butterscotch sauce, hazelnuts and banana ice-cream. There wasn’t a grain of rice or crumb of sponge to be left on any of the plates – just delicious!

At Gilpin you know you are somewhere special, as it somehow manages to be luxurious yet homely. The team make you feel like a friend rather than a customer, where nothing is too much trouble. Gutted to be leaving, but arriving home feeling refreshed and revitalised it really was a faultless day.

Would I recommend? Absolutely! Would I go back? One hundred per cent! I’m currently looking for an agreeable date to go back with three of my girlfriends for the ultimate spa and lunch date. n

Available from 1st April, the Gilpin Spa & Spice Trail is the perfect treat for you and a loved one, or even a party of four

WOULD I RECOMMEND? ABSOLUTELY! WOULD I GO BACK? ONE HUNDRED PER CENT!

in the shack we settled in for a two-hour spa escape. After drifting off more than a couple of times during my expertly applied facial I awoke feeling fresh faced, both figuratively and literally! My skin was glowing and the spoiling didn’t stop there – next was the steam room with the self-applied mud treatment followed by the shower room with body

Gilpin Hotel & Lake House Crook Road, Windermere 01539 488818 thegilpin.co.uk

Kathryn Heart and friend enjoy an ultimately relaxing Spa & Spice experience in the stunning surroundings of the Lake District

LEADING THE WAY IN AESTHETICS: A RESPONSIBLE AND ETHICAL APPROACH

Dr Grant McKeating explains why RejuvaMed Health and Wellness, rated GOOD by the CQC, operates differently to many other clinics and practitioners

their concerns about ageing is far more important than taking someone’s money and selling them a treatment that isn’t necessary or could be unsafe. Our treatment plans aim to make patients feel great about themselves. Results must be natural and in-line with their expectations.”

As the demand for aesthetic treatments continues to rise, consultant Dr Grant McKeating, Medical Director at RejuvaMed Health and Wellness, is proud to take a stand against unnecessary, ineffective and often unsafe cosmetic treatments. He insists on putting the patient, and what is best for them, first.

Many medical and non-medical practitioners are cashing in on the ‘Love Island’ trend for excessive and inappropriate treatments, particularly in younger people. He explains: “Someone in their 20’s doesn’t need to spend thousands on wrinkle relaxants and dermal fillers. When I see clinics proudly showing images of excessive treatment like this, I really do question the ethics of the practitioner involved.”

EXPERTLY ASSESSING A PATIENT AND ADDRESSING THEIR CONCERNS ABOUT AGEING IS FAR MORE IMPORTANT THAN TAKING SOMEONE’S MONEY AND SELLING THEM A TREATMENT THAT ISN’T NECESSARY OR COULD BE UNSAFE

Dr Grant won’t bow to this ‘conveyor belt’ approach that takes advantage of younger patients and their quest for perfection, often fuelled by social media. He believes that aesthetic medicine is all about managing the effects of genuine ageing and the confidence issues that can accompany these, in a responsible and appropriate way.

“Expertly assessing a patient and addressing

To ensure the very best outcomes, Dr Grant offers one-to-one in-depth 30-minute consultations with patients prior to any treatments being undertaken, where he listens to their concerns and discusses the best treatment course with them. Patients are given time to consider the options, and are never pressurised into same day procedures, as happens at many other clinics.

DR GRANT OFFERS

ONE-TO-ONE IN-DEPTH 30-MINUTE CONSULTATIONS WITH PATIENTS PRIOR TO ANY TREATMENTS BEING UNDERTAKEN, WHERE HE LISTENS TO THEIR CONCERNS AND DISCUSSES THE BEST TREATMENT COURSE WITH THEM

Varicose Vein Centre

Sometimes facial injections may not be appropriate and Dr Grant may recommend other treatments, such as Morpheus 8, instead. This is a minimally invasive skin rejuvenation procedure that can achieve remarkable results in lifting and tightening loose skin.

RejuvaMed has many returning patients who are delighted with the treatment and care Dr Grant and his team provide. He oftens sees patients who have had a poor experience elsewhere. He advises: “Always visit a qualified medical professional. Unregistered nonmedical practitioners may have no training, no insurance and there is no comeback if a treatment goes wrong.”

The clinic’s ethical approach is also very relevant if you are looking for treatment of varicose veins. Dr Grant says: “You must see a consultant vascular surgeon who will scan your legs using an ultrasound system before recommending treatment. Beware of any clinic that offers to inject varicose veins without a scan, or where the injector is not a vascular surgeon. Things could go badly wrong.” n

For a consultation with Dr Grant, or with vascular surgeon Mr Perricone at RejuvaMed, call 01200 538668

RejuvaMed Health & Wellness

Holmes Cottage, Woone Lane Clitheroe BB7 1BG 01200 538668 rejuvamed.co.uk

LONG LASTING RESULTS

a method used to create a very realistic hair stroke brow. It involves using a disposable hand tool with super fine needles to deposit pigment within the upper dermis to create the illusion of brow hair. A pigment refresh is required every 12 months depending on the individual. Microblading is perfect for any client, either to enhance a full brow or correct and create a perfect brow for those with thin or patchy brows.”

will have the same brow shape and definition but the combination technique is ideal whatever brows you currently have subject to consultation.”

PERMANENT MAKE-UP: LONG-LASTING RESULTS

Helen is an expert in the application of permanent make-up and has seen a rise in clients wanting to have semi-permanent eyeliner and lipliner: “The new kid on the block is definitely the introduction of permanent lip blush.

Despite Helen Coates impressive’ portfolio of aesthetic and beauty treatment technology, she is constantly reinventing the business with the most current trends.

Recently, Helen has been busy with all things brows, eyes and lips as she and her team have been training in the very latest techniques. From microblading and ombre powder brow to permanent make-up with eyeliner and even lip liner and blush – there’s so much to learn from Helen, who has more than 25 years’ experience in the industry.

HOW DOES IT DIFFER FROM THE OMBRE POWDER BROW?

“This technique is performed by a machine and is also known as micropigmentation or permanent make-up. It’s become really popular and involves building a beautiful brow by the pixelation of tiny dots. The pigment is inserted into the skin much like a traditional tattoo for longer lasting results. It can be used on clients with most skin types, is ideal for people who want a more shaded, softer brow. A colour refresh is applied every 12-18 months.”

“Permanent eyeliner places pigment between the eye lashes to create a strong liner to a subtle lash enhancement. We provide our clients with long lasting results. Eyes look defined throughout the day and night. No need to battle with eyeliner again.

MICROBLADE OR OMBRE/ COMBINATION BROWS?

“I always tell my clients that it is all down to personal style and requirements when it comes to the different brow techniques. We ask all new clients to come for a consultation and a patch test. It is crucial that we work with the client assessing their hair colour, skin tone, texture and most of all their expectations. Each consultation is individual,” says Helen.

WHO IS MICROBLADING SUITABLE FOR?

“Carried out professionally, microblading is

TELL US MORE ABOUT THE COMBINATION OR OMBRE BROW?

“For those who can’t decide between microblading and ombre, this may be the preferred choice. It’s a combination between the two, hair strokes and powder fill for a really natural defined brow. No two clients

“I am so excited about lip liner and blush,” Helen adds. “Many women notice as they age that their lips can appear smaller and paler, losing elasticity and that all-important outer edge definition, lipstick doesn’t last and bleeds into the skin. We can apply pigment to create definition, shape and even the appearance of fullness. You can opt for soft and natural tones although we do have clients who choose more dramatic lip blush colours. The pigment can last up to four years and offers a much more youthful appearance.” n

READER OFFER !

Book microblading via the website* and get the touch up half price *book by 5th April 23, T&C’s apply

Helen Coates talks about the latest beauty innovations at her Crawshawbooth salon

ENHANCE YOUR SMILE… G

eorgie Dobson had been concerned about her smile for many years. Having naturally very small teeth, her teethto-gum ratio was imbalanced and previous treatment involving composite bonding, had deteriorated over time and left her teeth discoloured.

As an online content creator working in the world of marketing, Georgie was conscious that a lovely, aestheticallypleasing smile was vital to her confidence and her work.

Living in central Manchester and working in a busy city, she was surrounded by some of the best cosmetic dental clinics in the UK.

Having been unhappy with her teeth for a long time, Georgie Dobson recently underwent cosmetic treatment with Renovo Dental – and now she just can’t stop smiling!

During her research, she felt the various smile results all looked the same – big, bright, white teeth created as part of a full smile makeover.

“There was nothing unique about the smile results,” recalls Georgie. “I wanted a natural-looking, long-lasting solution to enhance my smile.”

When speaking to colleagues and friends in the industry, one clinic name kept cropping up – Ribble Valley-based Renovo Dental. Georgie recalls: “The reviews for Renovo kept popping up and eventually I decided to book a consultation. I had always been very reluctant to smile, which wasn’t great as I am constantly being photographed in the work I do.”

Georgie had feared that any cosmetic dentistry may involve significant tooth reduction, but Dr Usman Riaz of Renovo was able to reassure her from the outset:

“Georgie was looking to restore her smile. When she came for her first consultation, I reassured her that far from removing any

A BEAUTIFUL SMILE IS A NATURAL SMILE THAT IS FULL OF CHARACTER AND VITALITY, UNIQUE TO EACH PATIENT AND IN HARMONY WITH THEIR FACE

teeth, we needed to rebuild her smile by adding volume to a few selected areas, which was a different concept altogether.”

During her first consultation Georgie and Usman discussed a bespoke treatment plan that involved gum contouring, professional whitening, direct composite bonding and life-like ultra-natural porcelain veneers. Using the latest digital imaging technology, Georgie was able to see how her new smile would look before treatment even began.

your smile to create the desired effect – they can balance out facial asymmetries to achieve an attractive result in each patient. They act and feel like real teeth – they also reflect and refract light like natural teeth.”

“I feel so confident, my teeth are amazing. You can see, they are the real deal and I am so happy! Renovo Dental have transformed my smile this year!”

The team at Renovo are equally delighted that Georgie is thrilled with her new smile as Usman says: “Georgie had always assumed nothing could be done to fix her teeth and enhance her smile, but her confidence in the treatment stayed on track with each visit.

Georgie says: “The result is incredible. This has changed my face completely. I am so pleased with how the work on my teeth and the whitening has transformed my smile.

“My confidence has been boosted and I am so impressed and so happy.”

Following her treatment a delighted Georgie, who works in Manchester with the likes of the Lowry Hotel and Harvey Nichols as well as a number of world-renowned designer labels, told her Instagram followers:

“Our ethos at Renovo is to enhance rather than change. A person’s smile reflects their personality. A beautiful smile is a natural smile that is full of character and vitality, unique to each patient and in harmony with their face.

“We have the best technology available at Renovo Dental and we have a skilled, dynamic team who know how to get the best end result.” n

Renovo Dental treats patients who have been referred by their general dentist as well as self-referred patients

“Usman showed me a digital image of what my teeth could look like, which was amazing,” says Georgie, who decided to go ahead with the treatment plan in order to achieve the smile of her dreams.

As a member of Renovo’s in-house team, leading UK specialist periodontist Dr Khurrum Hussain undertook the gum contouring treatment to balance the vital ‘white-to-pink’ ratio of Georgie’s teeth and gums.

“Gum contouring is a fairly simple procedure with very little discomfort or side effects,” says Usman. “After a few weeks healing to allow the gums to restabilise, the final phase of Georgie’s restoration treatment began.”

Georgie returned to Renovo to have her teeth prepared for a combination of direct composite bonding and wafer-thin covers of ceramic that go over the teeth. The aim was to mask any imperfections such as the teeth colour, shape or even position, as Usman explains: “If designed properly, these handmade super-thin veneers can change

Renovo Dental Pendle House, Clitheroe Road Chatburn BB7 4JY 01200 441000

I FEEL SO CONFIDENT, MY TEETH ARE AMAZING. YOU CAN SEE, THEY ARE THE REAL DEAL AND I AM SO HAPPY!

THE STYDD PILGRIMAGE

Andrew Stachulski discovers an understated gem of a church on a quiet byway of Ribchester

As you enter Ribchester from the east, after crossing the bridge and passing Gallows Lane, but before reaching Stoneygate Lane, you have already missed one of the town’s most fascinating ancient buildings. Just before the Ribchester Arms, a minor lane leads away north and after passing the alms houses in a few hundred yards there is the little Stydd (St Saviour’s) Church whose origins are over 800 years old.

There are different sorts of beauty and Stydd church certainly possesses the beauty of simplicity in large measure, as you will

IT IS LIKELY THAT THERE WAS AN EARLIER BUILDING ON THIS SPOT AND SOME HAVE CLAIMED EVIDENCE OF A ROMAN CONSTRUCTION, WHICH SEEMS PLAUSIBLE IN VIEW OF THE STRONG ROMAN INFLUENCE IN RIBCHESTER

sense immediately when you enter by the fine, early English door and survey the stone-flagged floor. A pamphlet which used

to be available in the church itself asserted confidently that the building dates from the time of King Stephen, circa 1140. A recent scholarly tract is a little more cautious, but still places its origin before 1200 AD. It is in fact a child of the Crusades era, founded by the Knights Hospitaller of St John, who had their roots in Jerusalem after it was captured from the Turks during the first Crusade around 1099.

It is likely, however, that there was an earlier building on this spot and some have claimed evidence of a Roman construction, which seems plausible in view of the strong Roman influence in Ribchester. In the days of the Crusades, there was probably a large hospice here, caring for pilgrims and lepers

returning from those wars. The English Hospitallers of St John were centred at Clerkenwell, where there is a museum –the order was annulled in Reformation times but was revived in the 19th century and the name famously survives in the St John’s Ambulance.

During the reformation and later, St. Saviour’s was noted for its uniting of the reformed and Catholic traditions, its tombstones feature both a Roman Catholic bishop and a priest of the 18th century. Other features, such as the windows in the south wall, were transferred from the Ribchester parish church of St. Wilfred’s, barely one mile away, in the 17th century. The screen, pulpit and sanctuary all date

from the 17th and 18th centuries but the fine east window above the altar is much earlier, from the 13th century. Also within the sanctuary is a large sarcophagus (stone coffin), which is ancient. Below this is a simple tombstone, marked with a cross, which some believe to hold the remains of St Margaret Clitheroe, a Catholic martyr of the 16th century. It is hard to escape that turbulent and often terrible, reformation history in these parts.

between Dinckley footbridge, recently restored, the spectacular Sale Wheel or simply from Ribchester Bridge. Downstream of the bridge, you can leave the main road and cross field paths, including a crossing of Gallows Lane, and eventually you reach the rough lane just before the church. Be warned, these field paths may be very wet or even waterlogged in winter! Once inside there is a great sense of tranquility, and more, a recalling of the centuries of worship concentrated in this small space:

‘The communication

Of the dead is tongued with fire beyond the language of the living.’

Today St Saviour’s is still used for divine worship – you can find details at St Wilfred’s –and many will recall having attended weddings or baptisms here. The Covid pandemic led to the church being closed to visitors for a long time, but it is now generally open again during daylight hours. I began by referring to the Stydd pilgrimage, and there are many ways in which you could achieve this. The parish church is, as mentioned, just a short walk away and it would be natural to combine the two as part of a general tour of Ribchester.

A longer circuit which is a well-established favourite of mine involves a starting point on the Ribble. You could do this from many vantages but an especially pleasant route would begin anywhere along the stretch

For many, it will be difficult to leave this spot and you may well have the desire to return here for worship. On the return, if coming from Dinckley, instead of simply retracing your steps from Ribchester Bridge, you can follow the Ribble Way along the north bank to the farm of Dewhurst House. From this point, either continue along the Ribble Way (signposted) or diverge onto an enjoyable, high-level route behind the farm, passing through a partially wooded area – at one point there is a splendid view of the river seen from atop a high bank.

The two routes converge a little further on below Hey Hurst, from where you descend gently through fields towards the new bridge, which replaces the old suspension bridge, destroyed by the severe floods of December 2015. If you started from the lane near the old Tanners Arms, your destination lies a short distance uphill. An excellent walk, enjoyable at any time of year. n

ONCE INSIDE THERE IS A GREAT SENSE OF TRANQUILITY, AND MORE, A RECALLING OF THE CENTURIES OF WORSHIP CONCENTRATED IN THIS SMALL SPACE

IN THE SADDLE

Members of Chipping Pony Club are active as ever with competitions and training alike, writes Megan Conlon

After weeks of preparation, Chipping Pony Club members took part in the Area Horse and Pony Care competition. In this competition, members must work their way around a number of stables where different activities are stationed. At each station, there is the opportunity for members to demonstrate their equine expertise in areas such as grooming, saddlery, feeding and handling.

Our junior team did us proud this year –they were placed fourth out of 20 teams! It was such a brilliant achievement, especially considering how young the team is – they really pulled it out of the bag!

This month we also had a rally at half term. Rallies are an opportunity for members to advance their riding to the next level, working towards upcoming competitions and the Pony Club tests. These tests act as markers of achievement, showing what level riders are at, and range from E test for the newest riders, to A test for those who are the most experienced in the Pony Club. This time,

is vital, both for dressage and tests but also for improving jumping rounds too.

Mounted games training continues on a weekly basis. This discipline is a fast-paced, exciting test of teamwork, as members compete in a series of races against other Pony Clubs. Training has been going on for weeks, and the Winter League competitions have given the team the experience they need to have the confidence which is essential for the races. Members have got to know their teammates and learnt quick-thinking and

members were instructed by Kath Pinnington and Joanna Baxter, and under their expertise, they worked on both flatwork and show jumping. It is always important to remind members that while jumping can be more exciting, working with your horse on the flat

determination. All this training paid off at the latest competition where the novice junior team came second against the other clubs! Mounted games is often highly competitive, but at its core is having fun with friends and becoming one with your pony, as all Pony Club disciplines are. For the next competition, we plan to have a novice junior and a junior team!

Training in other disciplines has also been ongoing throughout this month. Older members have had frequent show jumping sessions in order to prepare them for upcoming competitions, and there are many more dates for your diary in the months ahead.

There is always the opportunity to get involved with the club, even if you just want to have a taster session, please feel free to get in touch! 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

Friday afternoon. The Owners’ Lunch at Bangor is legendary and there was another strong team present.

On the back of his win at Ayr, Horacio was the 2/1 favourite for the seven-runner Handicap Hurdle and in a thrilling race, he just held on to win by a head from Basford

HOORAY FOR HORACIO!

Jason Fildes reflects on the success of Highclere’s Horacio Apple’s, who recently enjoyed two wins at Ayr and Bangor-on-Dee

Two wins in four weeks has really cheered up the winter months for the lucky owners of Horacio Apple’s, a beautiful chesnut gelding in training with Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero at Malpas in Cheshire.

Having been placed twice in November, Horacio Apple’s broke his maiden on only his third start over hurdles in a Conditional Jockeys’ Novice Handicap Hurdle at Ayr. He was partnered by stable jockey Toby Wynne, who gave him a lovely patient ride and produced him when it mattered.

ON THE BACK OF HIS WIN AT AYR, HORACIO WAS THE 2/1 FAVOURITE FOR THE SEVEN-RUNNER HANDICAP HURDLE AND IN A THRILLING RACE, HE JUST HELD ON TO WIN BY A HEAD

The heavy ground didn’t seem to inconvenience him at all and he clearly had plenty left in the tank as he idled up the run in.

He probably did himself a favour by not winning too easily and was subsequently raised 3lbs to a rating of 106. It made the long trip up to Ayr worthwhile for a good turnout of owners, many of whom had stayed in local pubs the night before. We were superbly looked after by the racecourse throughout the day, capped off with a great celebration in their Winners’ Room after the race!

Only four weeks later Horacio went to Bangor-on-Dee on a beautiful, crisp sunny

with Ramo, a further two lengths back in third. Bangor is the local racecourse for the stable and there was a huge roar as Horacio and jockey Henry Brooke returned to the Winners’ Enclosure. The local bookies were certainly not joining in the cheering as they paid out on a very well-backed favourite!

HORSE

Horacio is a fine big stamp of a horse, who is hopefully still well ahead of the handicapper. We’ll be looking forward to another run over hurdles in a couple of weeks but his jumping is a great asset, and he will no doubt improve for a fence next year! He’s an exciting, improving horse and one to keep an eye on for the remainder of the season. n

Highclere – Jason Fildes 01200 444622 07721 311778

jason@highclere.co.uk

highclereracing.co.uk

HE’S AN EXCITING, IMPROVING

AND ONE TO KEEP AN EYE ON FOR THE REMAINDER OF THE SEASON

FREDDIE’S FRIENDS

Heartbroken after the death of their one-year-old son, Mark and Aimee Beaumont founded Freddie’s Friends, which has already raised £35,000

Acouple whose baby died just weeks after his first birthday are raising thousands of pounds for their charity, Freddie’s Friends, in order to support other bereaved parents and their families.

Freddie’s mum, Aimee Beaumont, says: “We decided to set up a charity in Freddie’s name, with the aim of providing support for bereaved parents of child loss, as well as other members of the family including siblings, grandparents, aunts and uncles.

“There is very little support out there for parents who have suffered such a horrific tragedy. Your whole life comes to a crashing halt.”

In order to keep Freddie’s memory alive, Aimee and husband Mark, have also encouraged friends and family to take a teddy bear on holiday with them as their Freddie Bear.

was born in October 2021, as Aimee recalls: “Weighing 9lb 8oz he was a big baby with an even bigger personality!”

At around six months Freddie joined a nursery making lots of new friends: “He always stood out on every photograph as he was always the one with the biggest smile on his face.”

Aimee adds: “By doing this they are showing Freddie places he never got to see. They attach labels to the bears so they can be left ready for someone else to find and take him on new adventures.

“We have also set up an Instagram account so that pictures of the bears can be tagged for all to see.

“So far, Freddie has been to Lapland UK, Lapland Finland, Paris, New York, Australia, Poland, Qatar, Japan and many more countries!”

Aimee and Mark were thrilled when Freddie

Around his first birthday Freddie started taking his first steps but, just three weeks later he fell ill after contracting what was thought to be a chest infection, and the couple took him to hospital: “We were told that he had bronchiolitis but three days later Freddie died. It turned out to be Strep A which stole our perfect baby from us.”

So far, the couple have raised around £35,000 for Freddie’s Friends, from different sources and they plan to hold various fundraisers throughout the year to keep this growing. n

If you would like to support Freddie’s Friends go to: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/freddies-friends

@ fgb_bears #FreddieBears

WE HAVE ALSO SET UP AN INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT SO THAT PICTURES OF THE BEARS CAN BE TAGGED FOR ALL TO SEE

Covenants are an agreement between landowners that either restrict the use of the property (restrictive covenants) or impose obligations that you must comply with (positive covenants). An example of a restrictive covenant would be a covenant not to build more than one dwelling on the land. This is particularly important for those with large plots of land who wish to develop and sell parcels of land. An example of a positive covenant would be an obligation to contribute to the maintenance of a fence or boundary structure. In rural areas this could cover a substantial area and might be no small undertaking.

Successors in title, i.e. those who own the property after you, will also be affected by those covenants. Restrictive covenants will bind successors in title, but positive covenants will generally not. That doesn’t mean positive covenants can be safely ignored. It is likely on the previous transfer of the land one of several legal mechanisms will have been entered into to make these

COVENANTS ON A PROPERTY

covenants enforceable.

When purchasing property your legal advisor will tell you there are covenants that bind the land and will explain this to you. One issue when you are purchasing is that you may not view these covenants with an eye to the future. Years later you may not remember what covenants there are on the legal title. It likely wouldn’t dawn on many people to check their legal title to see if there

of it should not be recommended. Too many people when being told of a breach of covenant simply reply: ‘Well nobody has said anything’. The problem is that covenants can be enforceable for a significant period after the original breach and you won’t necessarily know the person who has the benefit of it. There are several ways that breaches can be rectified or avoided in the first place. You may be able to negotiate with the person who has the benefit of the covenant.

• You could get indemnity insurance to protect against the cost of defending a future clai m

is a covenant preventing them from doing something before they do it. This often only comes to light when they try to sell the property again or when the person with the benefit of the covenant takes enforcement action as a result of the breach of covenant. Failure to comply with a covenant could lead to an injunction being awarded against you or potentially damages.

It is best not to breach a covenant in the first place. Certainly, taking the approach of just doing it and hoping nothing comes

• You could apply to vary or discharge the covenant with the Upper Tribunal (Lands Chamber).

Obtaining consent or looking to vary or discharge a covenant can be a long and expensive process. You should look to obtain legal advice before any action is taken. As they say – prevention is better than a cure. n

If you would like to discuss a covenant contact Adam Bromley, Partner on 0333 207 1130 or at: adam.bromley@forbessolicitors.co.uk

You may be familiar with the saying: ‘An Englishman’s home is his castle’. It is this mindset which often means we take for granted what we can do with our own land, especially when it relates to the issue of covenants, writes Adam Bromley of Forbes Solicitors

A POSITIVE COVENANT WOULD BE AN OBLIGATION TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE MAINTENANCE OF A FENCE OR BOUNDARY STRUCTURE

HOME TRUTHS

We have had some sensational occasions in the historic Westminster Hall over the centuries, but none in modern times to match the address by President Zelensky of Ukraine. A thousand people stood in the great hall to give a rapturous welcome to one of the most dynamic and inspirational leaders who bravely defends his country against Russia’s illegal invasion. I am proud of the enormous support that the UK is giving to Ukraine and locally, the enthusiasm with which Ukranian families have been welcomed into Ribble Valley homes.

As people step forward to help those escaping war, we are also blessed in the Ribble Valley to have people like Jenny Ashton and others, who are stepping forward to support the Bags for Strife charity to help those grieving loss, following suicide. She and others who have also lost

Valley MP Nigel Evans witnesses the speech presented by Ukraine’s President Zelensky in Westminster Hall and reflects on the devastating loss of life in the war against Russia

relatives to suicide have created a lifeline for those feeling multiple emotions including grief, blame and anger. The idea is for those affected, to be given a bag containing important information in order that they know they are not alone.

Music plays a huge role in my life and I was honoured to go to the Barbican to listen to the Jerusalem Orchestra of the East and West. This event, sponsored by the Israel and Morocco Embassies, was a vivid example of music closing a divide and bringing people together. The music conducted by Tom Cohen and played enthusiastically and beautifully by musicians from varying religions, ethnicities and sectors, elevated the spirit and really was a joy to witness.

I was also delighted to see the 2nd Whalley Girl Guides, who made the effort to come all the way to Westminster to tour around our iconic Parliament building. They were expertly led and all present asked great questions!

I was equally privileged to see Sir David Attenborough visit Parliament as, last September, I witnessed for myself the consequences of climate change and saw first-hand, the carving of ice from the ice walls leading to the polar cap. It is hard to fully take on board the incredible contribution one man has made in our lifetime to raise the awareness of our planet and its sensitivity to change. Sir David’s name will still be

talked about in centuries to come and his documentaries will always be the ‘go-to’ for anyone wanting to know more about our planet. Last month it was great to see that one of our best-loved restaurants, the Assheton Arms, has reopened in picturesque Downham. Congratulations to James Warburton, Lisa and the team for a stunning welcome! The food is incredible and the staff so friendly – this will be another magnet for foodies coming to visit our wonderful area!

I had a series of meetings with visiting politicians from Germany and Latvia recently and I was also honoured to greet the Deputy Mayor and Councillors from Kyiv, who came to talk to UK MPs and listen to Prime Minister’s Question Time. I have been to Kyiv in the past and it is a beautiful city, but as in many places it is the people who make a place. I was left in no doubt about their determination to see the war through to the bitter end.

I thought about the sacrifices made as I stood among the crowds in Trafalgar Square at the vigil for Ukraine. The next day I stood in a minute’s silence in the Commons Chamber to mark one year since the war began. With the music of the Jerusalem Orchestra still ringing in my ears, I know there must be a better way than war and I pray that this will be the last time I need to stand in silence reflecting on the huge loss of life, which is truly avoidable. Such a senseless waste is heart-breaking. n

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would love to show you round and discuss your needs and help make your project as seamless as possible.

We have a deepening relationship with Porsche Preston and last month we hosted a Digital Art Exhibition that is on a national tour. With Victor Yu of Yu restaurant presenting canapés and Michelin-star chef Tom Parker doing a dessert, this brought Porsche owners from throughout the county and beyond to our beautiful Ribble Valley.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED…

the log store full. So from arriving at reception your shoulders can drop with your welcome glass of ‘something’ before being shown to your lodge. The following morning your breakfast box will be delivered by 8am to allow you to sit and watch the world wake up whilst you plan your day.

At Everything Retreat we look back on an incredible New Year gathering of guests welcoming in January and we had a ‘full house of love’ for Valentines. Think roses, log fires and hot tubs – the reviews have certainly been glowing.

The team has grown in number and we are all settling into a groove. From the moment you make the first call we swing into action to ensure your stay is everything you want it to be. At the very least, your hot tub will be up to temperature, your log fire will be laid and

Behind the scenes, the workmen quietly continue creating phase two of our plan and we are delighted to have the ability now to offer our guests a bar area to meet in. Perhaps you are a party of six – this beautiful addition gives you the perfect space. Predinner drinks whilst waiting for your taxi or a welcome space to sit and work at your laptop in peace with a cup of coffee and a pastry.

Part of this new building is an event space that will be used for meetings or talks for those who are now booking the whole area to host a retreat. We have an event manager who

We are also excited to share that we have been shortlisted in the Ribble Valley Business Awards in the category of Social Media. Do you follow us on Instagram? 10k do! We are also in the New Business Award category. The list of finalists is impressive and we feel grateful to be making our presence felt in our first year.

As I write this, it’s a clear blue winters morning with high winds. The world and its troubles feel so very far away – and that is what we want for you too. We are Everything you need right now. n

Log on or call us and start your journey to the wonderful area we call home

Everything Retreat

Primrose Hill, Primrose Lane

Mellor BB2 7EQ

01254 965095

hello@everything-retreat.com

everything-retreat.com

everythingretreat

RibbleValley

The New Year brings anticipation for the months ahead and Everything Retreat is no exception to this rule, writes Hilary Shepherd

FROM THE MOMENT YOU MAKE THE FIRST CALL WE SWING INTO ACTION TO ENSURE YOUR STAY IS EVERYTHING YOU WANT IT TO BE

ONE HILL: SO MANY WAYS TO CLIMB

Pendle Hill Landscape Partnership has launched #SummitElse – a challenge to celebrate the restoration and creation of new footpaths on Pendle Hill

Over the course of five years, the Pendle Hill Landscape Partnership has constructed or restored almost 7km of footpaths on and around Lancashire’s most iconic hill.

As the £2.8 million project draws to a close, the new and restored footpaths will be one of the project’s many long-term lasting legacies which the 300,000 people who visit Pendle Hill each year can continue to enjoy.

To celebrate the completion of new and improved routes, the Pendle Hill Landscape Partnership has produced a pack of 12 selfguided walks for all abilities.

The collection features a wide choice of walks with varying levels of challenge –from easy low-level rambles to challenging half-day hikes starting from some of the pretty villages at the foot of Pendle Hill.

Many of the walks have parking at the start point and there’s a car-free route starting at Clitheroe Station and also a new Tramper Trail for those with limited

mobility to enjoy using an all-terrain mobility scooter based in Sabden.

Pendle Hill Landscape Project manager Cathy Hopley said: “At the start of the new year lots of people resolved to become more active and we hope the new collection of walks will inspire people to get out on the hill.

CHOOSE A NEW ROUTE TO THE TOP OR WALK THEM ALL FOR THE ULTIMATE PENDLE HILL CHALLENGE

“We’ve worked hard to improve existing footpaths and create new paths on and around Pendle and it will be great to see people exploring some of these walking routes.

“Choose a new route to the top or walk them all for the ultimate Pendle Hill challenge. Whichever route you choose, you’re guaranteed to get plenty of fresh air and stunning panoramic views.”

The route cards are available from

Tourist Information Centres, local pubs, cafés and businesses. Alternatively, you can find links to downloadable routes on the Pendle Hill Landscape Project website: pendlehillproject.com/summit-else n

The Pendle Hill Project would also love to see your pictures and summit selfies, so do share them on their social media channels with the hashtag #SummitElse: @bowlandaonb @pendlehillproject @discoverbowland

HOLIDAY HOMES FOR SALE

REEDS

The Botanical Room at Holden Clough is filled with beautiful house plants and planters from across the continent while in the Reading Room Kitchen, visitors can stop for a while, during their tranquil journey through the quiet nursery pathways, to enjoy everything from a superb signature breakfast to an amazing afternoon tea.

French style Croque Monsieur, seasonal salads and homemade cakes are also on the menu, which has been devised by a new, independent team of talented chefs. Natasha, Nick and Ollie produce classic dishes with a distinctly modern twist – a delight for visitors who want to punctuate their gardening visit with a tasty pitstop!

And let’s not forget the outside at Holden Clough – this is a seven-days a week operation where you will find everything you need for your garden at this time of year. Bulbs, perennials, shrubs, herbs, beautiful Cretan terracotta pots by the Pots and Pithoi company and a free border design service offered by expert, John

SPRING RETURNS TO THE NURSERY ONCE AGAIN

Everything is coming alive at Holden Clough Nurseries, where the team are preparing for Easter and a series of outdoor artisan markets

With the dawn of spring comes the blossoming of blooms –Easter is also on the horizon and it will be celebrated in the most ‘eggstraordinary’ way at the magical space that is Holden Clough!

In the Glasshouse there will be Easter bunnies and eggs galore within a setting that is simply stunning.

Holden Clough’s Alli Croft, is the creative influence behind many of the displays across the Glasshouse, Gift Room, Reading Room Kitchen and Botanical Room. She curates the collections each season introducing new items to enhance the existing, luxurious line-up of beautiful vintage accessories, candles, soap, glassware and furniture sourced from Europe and beyond.

Among this season’s new collections is a range of nightwear in fine cotton featuring stunningly vibrant colours. There is natureinspired jewellery plus the introduction of an exciting new collection of handmade, vegan skin care products and candles by Scandinavian brand Elä. The Finnish word

Foley who runs Holden Clough with his wife Kate.

Coming up are a series of markets to be housed in the new, covered oak pergola within the grounds. Named after fruits and vegetables and beautifully illustrated by Alli, the markets will feature artisan goods, including home made candles and delightful curious.

Alli explains: “Whatever we do here at Holden Clough, we do it in a very measured way in order that visitors will really enjoy their experience – it really is a magical place!” n

Book now for afternoon tea at Holden Clough! 01200 447615

holdenclough.com

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)

Elä means ‘to live’ and the vision behind the collection is all about creating products that are eco-friendly.

It’s been nearly three months since my last column so let’s crack on as there’s quite a bit to cover. The underlying message on all the topics I discuss, is that we must all challenge, question, probe and discuss the things we deem important to the future of the Ribble Valley.

Let’s start with the HARP Project which in simple terms is 110km of pipeline from Cumbria to Manchester renewing the pipes that have been carrying water and serving the communities of Cumbria, Lancashire and Greater Manchester for nearly 70 years. Whilst undoubtedly important, the problem is the pipeline plan will decimate parts of Bowland an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Imagine years of road closures, of huge trucks trundling through Grindleton, Waddington, West Bradford and Chatburn. Imagine the devastating effect on farming, tourism, hospitality and residents. I was horrified to firstly hear that this application was to be rushed and passed by RVBC Planning in the very near future. As we go to print, I pray that our MP Nigel Evans has ‘played his ace’ and taken this decision away from local planning officers for a review by central government. I’ve spoken to a few deeply concerned councillors who are jumping up and down to have their voices heard – let’s see what happens.

Staying with RVBC it’s been another near disaster on the Mumbai streets of Clitheroe.

The money from LCC, earmarked to share the costs of renovation for the pavements,

had been lost but finally I believe, again secured and is to be ratified in the next few days. I implore the council to stop this sloth-like pace and actually get things moving – you are after all, sitting on £15m of reserves so get on with it and improve our towns and villages today.

In more positive news, I’m told the first tranche of money – £800k from the Shared Prosperity Fund has landed and is to be spent on further projects in Clitheroe. It would be good to see some tangible details on this and how we might all benefit from this influx of government cash.

Talking of Clitheroe, I’m beginning to worry more and more about the empty shops and lack of footfall. Monday is a day I often have meetings and I’m frequently shocked by how quiet the town is – just this week I thought I saw some tumbleweed but sadly it was just litter. With no real Sunday trade and with many Ribble Valley residents heading out of town to Lytham and Skipton – both vibrant on Sunday – I wonder how, in the long-term, the high streets will fare. I counted 14 shops and a bank that are now empty. I’ve been asked to create a feature on the town in May and hope that by showcasing the array of independent businesses and hospitality, we can drive people from the existing outlying areas and new build properties, to help support these businesses and to have a great experience.

Irecently met Ruth Thompson, who has been appointed to run the Food Bank in Clitheroe. It was good to see her energy and her raft of great ideas. She has the unenviable task of creating more and more awareness and donations as the demand on the Food Bank increases weekly with the cost of living crisis biting. She also has a plan to help compensate for the closure of the Citizens Advice Bureau, which is outrageous. I’m going to devote space to her in the next issue to tell us more about how she’s hoping to help our community. For now, though the Food Bank needs an urgent supply of items. Details can be found on their website ribblevalley. foodbank.org.uk

Lastly, we have our local elections here in the Ribble Valley in May. It’s your right and in my view, your duty, to vote. It would be great to see a big turnout on the day and I’m intrigued to see how the voting goes. Could the composition of the council change? Whatever your political views it’s vital that the individuals who represent you, understand your opinions and concerns. Until we speak again at Easter – please be kind to each other. 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

@TeddWalmsley

Live Magazines’ Tedd Walmsley calls for an urgent review of a 110km pipeline plan that could destroy parts of Bowland and he voices concerns over the number of empty shops in Clitheroe

An opportunity has arisen for the role of Editor for Live Preston & Fylde magazine. The right candidate will work on a freelance basis and will preferably have NCTJ qualifications and experience of working on newspapers or magazines.

You should also be happy to meet and liaise with our many and varied advertising clients, commission work to a small team of writers and work alongside our sales team.

To apply please email Live Magazines with your CV and a covering letter as to why you think you are the right person for the job: liz.walmsley@live-magazines.co.uk

A collection of five Dream Venues across the Ribble Valley & Yorkshire Dales.

WWW.DREAMVENUES.CO.UK

Laura Wade Photography

Since 2015, property prices have generally continued to increase, most steeply over the last three years. In spite of a global pandemic, which initially put a hold on the housing market, the Stamp Duty holiday between July 2020 and September 2021 resulted in a boom in the housing market. Figures released by Nationwide Building Society and Halifax in January 2023, however, have shown an overall fall in house prices over the previous five months.

This appears to be as a result of the repeated increases in the Bank of England’s interest rate, which started in December 2021 and high inflation affecting purchasers’ borrowing and spending power. At the point of writing, the only areas unaffected by these changes have been East Anglia and the North East of England, which have seen prices flatten out, and London where the increases in prices has slowed rather than reversed.

As at the end of January 2023, Lloyds were planning for an eight per cent fall in house prices during 2023, while the Office of Budget Responsibility has predicted house prices will

CHANGES TO THE HOUSING MARKET

In many areas of the UK, including the Ribble Valley and surrounding areas, house prices have seen the effects of rising interest rates and inflation. So, what does the housing market look like for buyers and sellers? Graeme Booth, property solicitor at Farleys explains

drop by nine per cent over the next two years. Whilst this should be good news for those who have struggled to get onto the property ladder in recent years, increases in interest rates and household expenses means they are now challenged by mortgage affordability. The reduction in the number of people who can afford to borrow, is resulting in lower offers being made for properties on the market and less demand for homes overall.

borrowed is greater than the current value of their property, although since the 2008 financial crash, loans should leave more room for values to fall before borrowers are stuck with negative equity.

THE DROP

IN

HOUSE PRICES MAY ALSO IMPACT UPON HOMEOWNERS WHO HAVE PURCHASED AT THE HEIGHT OF THE MARKET

The drop in house prices may also impact upon homeowners who have purchased at the height of the market, whose fixed interest rates have or are due to expire in the near future. Some will find that the loan to value ratio on their properties will result in the more favourable interest rates not being available to them and, in extreme circumstances, facing negative equity, where the amount they

Over time, this could however result in more properties coming onto what is currently a rather sparse housing market, as homeowners choose to sell their homes rather than be faced with unaffordable mortgage repayments. The increased risk of borrowers defaulting on mortgages also increases the possibility of more properties coming on the market by way of repossession. n

Whether you are buying, selling, re-mortgaging or facing difficulties with your mortgage lender, Farleys Solicitors can assist Get in touch today on 01254 368040, email: info@farleys.com or visit www.farleys.com

in and around sustainable shooting sports. A massive thanks to all that attended, donated and supported the evening.”

Jak Abrams, BASC’s Political Officer, adds: “MPs from across the North of England descended on the Inn at Whitewell to support BASC to raise money for conservation projects and young shot days. These politicians came from a range of backgrounds and constituencies, but all had the fundamental belief that sustainable shooting is vital to conservation.

A JOY TO BE BACK

Guests, including MPs from the north of England, attended a highly successful, fund-raising dinner hosted by the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC) at the Inn at Whitewell

It was a refreshing moment to have the much-acclaimed BASC annual fundraising dinner again at the Inn at Whitewell. The iconic Ribble Valley pub came up trumps yet again hosting a superb, very smart evening. Around 180 guests feasted on locally smoked trout followed by delicious duck and a dessert.

The event underpins the fundraising efforts by BASC Northern Region to support a multitude of projects from which youngsters in the Ribble Valley and further afield benefit. Shooting sports teach self-respect, discipline, teamwork and introduce young people to a great many friends increasing their social circle and contacts.

Duncan Thomas, Regional Director for BASC North, says: “It was a joy to be back at the mighty Whitewell. So many thanks to Charlie Bowman and the brilliant team

there and special thanks to Andrea, who coordinated the inn’s efforts on the night. Local shoots and businesses donated lots that we auctioned and raffled this year, raising a commendable £17k, which puts us in a great position to invest in local youth projects.

“The event was an opportunity to talk to the MPs about the work BASC and our members are doing in their constituencies and to update them about the challenges we are facing, for example on firearms licensing and avian flu.

“BASC works with politicians from all parties in all parts of the UK and we are incredibly grateful to those who attended and showed their political support for BASC North.” n

Those interested in attending next year’s event please email: north@basc.org.uk

“We have supported scout groups, kids from challenging backgrounds and a real diverse mix, it’s so rewarding.

“Conservation is key, so we have invested thousands of pounds making bird nest boxes, duck nest tubes, bat boxes and much more.

I’m particularly interested in any pond creation or maintenance projects that readers may have, especially if we can involve young people in wildlife monitoring. It’s great to see youngsters back outdoors enjoying the countryside and all that goes with it. I’m especially grateful to the local MPs that attended the dinner – they heard first-hand about the great work going on

basc.org.uk

I’M PARTICULARLY INTERESTED IN ANY POND CREATION OR MAINTENANCE PROJECTS THAT READERS MAY HAVE, ESPECIALLY IF WE CAN INVOLVE YOUNG PEOPLE IN WILDLIFE MONITORING

PAINTING PADIHAM IS BACK!

The

Artists will be able to compete for cash prizes by creating an original piece of art depicting Padiham and its people, over the course of one day, in this year’s Painting Padiham competition.

This exciting event is open to artists both professional and amateur, using any style or media (except photography). Participants will be asked to select a location

within a 2km radius of Padiham Town Hall including Gawthorpe Hall grounds, painting outside or within local businesses.

On the day, artists will register at the Event Hub in Padiham Town Hall with a blank canvas before moving out to their chosen location. Their completed work will be submitted at the end of the day and judged over the course of the following week. There will be three main cash prizes plus a People’s

Choice Award (decided via social media) to be announced on Saturday 20th May at the Picture House Gallery. Followed by an exhibition of all the artists’ submitted work for a further three weeks.

Visitor guides including maps of the event will be available for visitors to see where the artists will be located for the event and watch the artwork being created live in front of them. Each artist will have a number and bio on display to help visitors locate and find out more about the artists taking part.

AS WELL AS THE ARTISTS TRAIL THERE WILL BE A VARIETY OF FREE FAMILY ACTIVITIES AROUND THE TOWN CENTRE

As well as the artists trail there will be a variety of FREE family activities around the town centre including pottery painting, craft workshops and face painting. Visitors will also be able to experience the fantastic selection of shops and award-winning eateries on offer, then hop on the free vintage bus to explore Gawthorpe Hall.

Painting Padiham is organised by Burnley Council, Picture House Gallery, Gawthorpe Hall and Padiham Town Council including support from local sponsors and businesses. n

To discover more, or to enter the competition as an artist, visit: padiham.org.uk/painting-padiham-2023 or contact Katie: knolan@burnley.gov.uk 01282 475947

brilliant and popular Painting Padiham 2023 event returns on Saturday 13th May!

Spring is fast approaching and we have a ton of things going on at Gisburne Park Estate over the coming months. As the warm weather makes its way to us, our outdoor swimming pool is having a renovation ready for the reopening on 8th April.

Hindelinis Restaurant & Bar is thriving with our Friday Night Live Music sessions from 7pm and every other Sunday we have our Sunday Sessions where diners can enjoy our new Sunday lunch menu alongside live acoustic music between 12noon and 2pm. We have our resident DJ on St Paddy’s Day from 7pm and from April, our outdoor area will be a destination spot for food, drinks and more great live music.

ESTATE LIFE

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

and enjoy our Spring Walk Trail, Easter Egg Hunt at 2pm Saturday 8th April, followed by live music from our resident DJ from 3pm to 9pm. We also have our special

We also have lots of exciting things happening at the Manor House. Right now we are filming a TV show called Toy Hospital –similar to the BBC’s Repair Shop

with the award-winning tour guide Simon Entwistle. All events will be available to view and book on our website.

We have numerous events coming up, including the first of The Candlelight Series, set in the Grade 1 listed mansion on 23rd March. An intimate live music event set within flickering candlelight in the famous Georgian round ballroom. We are also hosting a Mum & Me Spring Flower Bouquet Workshop, in our new function room above Hindelinis in collaboration with Wildfire Flower Company, where you can create your own bouquet ready to take home and enjoy. Tickets for both events are available on our website.

We have great plans for Easter on the estate. Spend it with us

Mad Hatter Afternoon Tea running where there may even be a surprise visit from the Mad Hatter himself over the Easter weekend!

The wedding season is about to start and we are very excited to be hosting our first Wedding Showcase of the year on 15th and 16th April, from 12noon to 4pm each day. We’ll be showcasing our stunning venue with Betty’s Tipis and a host of amazing suppliers. There are a limited number of 2023 dates remaining and we have our amazing Marry Me Now package available with venue hire prices starting from £5000. Contact Kimberley on kimberley@gisburneparkestate. co.uk

and then soon after Most Haunted are coming to film and explore the paranormal activity within the house. Alongside this we will be organising a series of Ghost Hunts and a special Ghost Walk

Lodge sales are going well and it is great to welcome new owners on the estate. Our bespoke homes start from £250,000 and we currently have a showhome on site to view. If you are interested in a private tour, please contact Charlie on charlie@gisburneparkestate. co.uk n

Gisburn BB7 4LP 01200 415300

gisburneparkestate.co.uk

Our bespoke homes start from £250,000 and we currently have a showhome on site to view

WE ALSO HAVE LOTS OF EXCITING THINGS HAPPENING AT THE MANOR HOUSE. RIGHT NOW WE ARE FILMING A TV SHOW CALLED TOY HOSPITAL

The role of road map is your business or life plan. Your plan requires a very clear idea of where your intended destination is and a very clear idea of how to get there. In your plan you need to include contingencies if things change or you find your original plan is not taking you to where you want to be.

Writing your life or business plan can be difficult. We all approach the task from our own map of the world, based on background and our past experiences. Both our mindset and our motivation play a huge role in creating a vision and goal-setting.

If you have a plan for life or business that isn’t giving you what you want, if it doesn’t excite and motivate you, then clearly it is the wrong plan.

A coach is someone who provides guidance, support and advice to individuals, entrepreneurs, executives and professionals to help them improve their life or business performance and achieve their goals. The value of a coach can be significant and here are some reasons why.

• Objective perspective: A coach can provide an objective perspective on your life or business plan, which can be invaluable when making critical decisions.

MIND MATTERS

Imagine you set off on a journey and as you travel you come across a number of junctions. At every junction you need to make a decision as to which direction to take. Maybe there is a fork in the road, and again you have choices to make. You can take the journey in a number of different types of vehicle. You may choose to travel alone or choose who accompanies you.

At some junctions you may struggle to make a decision about which road to choose, or you turn down the wrong road and it takes you in the wrong direction or even a dead end?

Therapeutic coach and counsellor Lynn Scholes asks, have you set your sat nav for success? Both life and business are a journey

A roadmap for success can be compared to your sat nav. Just as a sat nav provides guidance and directions for reaching a specific destination, a roadmap for success provides guidance and direction for achieving one’s goals and aspirations. Like a sat nav, a roadmap helps to identify the best route to take, avoid obstacles and pitfalls and adjust the course as needed, to ensure progress is made towards the ultimate destination. By following the roadmap, you can stay on track and reach your desired outcome, just as a sat nav ensures that one arrives at their intended destination.

• Personalised guidance: A coach works with you to create a plan that is personal to you or your business and supports your specific needs and goals in life and in business.

• Accountability: A coach can help you set and achieve specific goals and hold you accountable for your progress.

• E xpertise and experience: A coach has expertise and experience in business strategy, marketing, leadership and other areas that can help you improve your performance and work.

Motivation and confidence: A coach can provide motivation and confidence, helping you to overcome obstacles and achieve your full potential.

Overall, a coach can help you achieve greater success in your business or happiness and fulfilment in life by providing guidance, support, accountability and expertise. n

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

To find out more you can contact Lynn on 07753 579745 or go to: focus101.co.uk

3 CHEFS, 3 RESTAURANTS: WELCOME TO THE NEXT GENERATION...

Working as sustainably as possible is something that’s hugely important to us at Gilpin, and with the appointment of three fantastic chefs across our three restaurants, we have the chance to do something really extraordinary. The chefs are working with a neighbouring organic farm and taking a nose-to-tail, low-to-no food mile approach to sourcing, and our vertical farm enables us to produce food to a perfect condition, with no food miles, packaging or transport, minimum water use, no pesticides, and no poor harvests or plant wastage. We hope you enjoy the results!

OLLIE BRIDGWATER PREVIOUSLY AT THE FAT DUCK, BRAY

source : a place where something originates, where development and growth are nurtured

“There’s a lot of history here, it’s a very special place, so it’s a big responsibility as we reshape SOURCE (formerly HRiSHi) in the coming months and years. I love making the most of special ingredients that aren’t around all the time, so our menus focus on beautiful local produce, seasonality and sustainability - and precision; the detail really matters.”

AAKASH OHOL

PREVIOUSLY AT HRiSHi

spice : an aromatic vegetable substance used to flavour food

“I’m looking forward to elevating what we already have, bringing my heritage along with that of my team, who are from different countries. We will be introducing monthly specials based on Asian festivals, and introducing new dishes to complement the old favourites. I love to present a country in a bowl - not the exact cuisine, but certainly a sense of it.”

TOM WESTERLAND PREVIOUSLY AT LUCKNAM PARK

Knipe Tarn : ‘small lake on high rocks’ (Old Norse)

“I’ve always loved going out and eating and playing around on barbecues, so my dishes are based around cooking with charcoal and different woods. My food is fun, there’s always a bit of a story behind it, a bit of nostalgia and playfulness. And then there’s the incredible location overlooking the tarn at Gilpin Lake House, it’s absolutely stunning.”

MARATHON CHALLENGE

Recreational runners Liz Walmsley and Amy Lancaster-Hall have pledged to raise money for Trinity Hospice by signing up for the Adidas Manchester Marathon next month.

Photography: Tim Waterworth

One of the few positive outcomes of the lockdown in 2020 was a friendship struck up between Live Magazines’ Liz Walmsley and Bowker Motor Group’s Amy LancasterHall. Both recreational runners, they began by running together at weekends – starting slowly and simply enjoying each other’s company and being outside in the elements.

Fast forward to 2023 and the pair have completed several half marathons and other local road races across Lancashire rarely

missing their weekly catch up – whatever the weather.

“I remember the exact moment when we decided to sign up for the Manchester Marathon – it was New Year’s Eve and our last run of 2022, which was a mere 13k!” says Amy. “It felt like if we were pushing to the next level, then we needed a reason to do this and aside from setting ourselves a new challenge, it felt right that we should try and raise some money for a good cause in the process.” n

The duo will embark on the charity challenge on Sunday 16th April in the Adidas Manchester Marathon to raise money for Trinity Hospice, Lytham St Annes. If you feel you’d like to support them, log in and read their stories. They have set up a Just Giving page: justgiving.com/fundraising/elizabeth-walmsley5

under STYLISH LYTHAM APARTMENT

We undoubtedly live in one of the most picturesque regions in the UK. Don’t misunderstand me, I enjoy being in Manchester city centre where I work as Head of Family Law at JMW Solicitors, but I cherish living in the Ribble Valley more than anything.

In Manchester, the choice of restaurants, bars and cafés, all within walking distance, means I’m never stuck for somewhere to meet clients and could probably go somewhere new every day. However, a quick lunch in Manchester usually involves weaving through

DIVORCE LAWYER’S

crowds and dodging cars and stress levels are guaranteed to increase. Where we live, it’s the exact opposite. Here, with so much serenity in the small things, grabbing lunch offers fresh air, greenery and a tranquillity that is hard to come by in cities. By the time I’m back at my desk my serotonin levels have been boosted and I feel more at rest.

contemplating the first step in their separation with hesitation and trepidation about what may be on the other side. Once they take their first step onto the stones by reaching out to me, they share their concern about the path ahead, wondering how secure the stones are or how to cross the ones that have sunken beneath the surface of the water.

Invariably, everyone has their challenges along the way, whether a dishonest ex is understating the value of their asset base or whether they are being difficult regarding child arrangements, overstating their hitherto limited involvement in the upbringing of the children.

Though I do wish I had the time to get out and explore more. We have so many landmarks and trails that are the envy of city dwellers, it’s a shame I have little opportunity to take full advantage of them. However, I have happened upon some sights, and one day, on a walk after a night of heavy rainfall, I came across the Whitewell stepping stones. Analysing the stones that lead across the River Hodder brought to my mind the journey that my clients go through when they divorce.

In the summer when the water is lower, the stepping stones provide a safe and secure path across the river. However, when the water is higher, the stones present a more dangerous route, with each step having to be taken with more consideration.

My clients often stand at the riverbank,

My job is to wade into the river beside my clients, aiding them at every step and, if needed, holding their hand as they step across the more uncertain stones, breaking the stream and shielding them from the worst of the river’s impact. As divorce lawyers, we have seen every possible difficulty this path can present, we know when to confidently step onto the next stone, when to wait for the water to subside or when to progress slowly. Stepping onto that first stone is always challenging without full understanding of what lies ahead. However, a good divorce lawyer will ease your uncertainties, guide you across in the safest way possible and ensure that you reach the other side, safe and dry, finally able enjoy the views and the rest of your journey ahead. n

in your corner

Why not join us on a walk?

LEGAL 500 2023

We regularly like to walk and explore the area and invite professionals from our network such as financial advisors and child therapists. So if you would like the opportunity for some informal conversations and to ask some questions around family law, why not join us?

To register your interest, contact us at familyteam@jmw.co.uk. Alternatively, if you would like some confidential impartial advice call us on 0345 872 6666 or visit jmw.co.uk

A regional behemoth, offering a first-class service. The quality of partners and of associates is unrivalled in the North-West. If in the North West, there can be no other port of call for anyone requiring the expertise of a solicitor in family law.”

The stepping stones across the River Hodder are very much representative of the journey our clients take and it’s our job to guide them to ensure they reach the other side safely, writes Elspeth Kinder of JMW Solicitors

STEPPING ONTO THAT FIRST STONE IS ALWAYS CHALLENGING WITHOUT FULL UNDERSTANDING OF WHAT LIES AHEAD

EDUCATION NEWS

ART COMPETITION

Before Christmas, Oakhill’s Prep School children entered an art competition to design the annual Christmas card for local estate agents Mortimers. We were thrilled to hear that Year 6 pupil Stanley was picked as one of the winners, receiving a £50 voucher to spend in Smyths Toy Superstore and a £75 voucher for school. Stanley worked hard with other classmates to research what pupils in the Prep School would like and he is pictured here with the items which will be well used in playground games and activities.

PARLIAMENT ONLINE

Oakhill’s Year 7 were fortunate to have an online lesson with the UK Parliament Education Service who led them through the fundamentals of democracy and the role of the Houses of Parliament. They were able to interact with Fiona as the session was just for Oakhill. She had also arranged a surprise visit from the Deputy Speaker and MP for the Ribble Valley, Nigel Evans, who answered pupils’ questions and made democracy feel real and relevant to their lives.

COLLEGE FINALIST

AT THE READY!

Wellbeing Warriors at St Mary’s RC Primary School in Langho are at the ready! Year 6 pupils Mollie Joyce, Gracie Crankshaw and Heidi Brown were selected to lead the way to make sure everyone is looking after their mental health in school. Mollie explained: “I love being a Wellbeing Warrior as it allows us to plan fun activities. We have organised a Get Fit Friday alongside our Sports Ambassadors, to encourage people to go out and try new activities and there is also a Chill-Ax Club where pupils can relax with friends.”

Burnley College is celebrating being a finalist in seven categories in the prestigious Educate North Awards 2023. The award categories are:

• FE College of the Year

• UK Apprenticeship Award – Themis at Burnley College

• Innovation Award – Esports

• Student Experience Award – Esports

• Music and Performing Arts Award

• Sustainable Green Initiative Award – Low Carbon Hub

• S TEM Initiative Award

Principal Karen Buchanan said: “I’m proud of every tutor and member of staff who have made it possible for us to create these incredible experiences.”

PIONEERING PROGRAMME

Burnley College is launching pioneering new online learning which will give everyone access to real qualifications in highly desirable skills – and with full funding available, learners won’t have to pay anything. This brand-new blended, flexible approach to learning allows people to shape their own education to fit around their lives. They won’t even have to attend the college if they choose not to – however, in-person support is available on the £110 million campus for everyone who wants it.

The college is initially launching five online courses:

• Awareness of Mental Health Problems

• Understanding Environmental Sustainability

• Understanding Children and Young People’s Mental Health

• Principles of Customer Service

• Principles of Team Leading

ENTREPRENEURS, CIVIC LEADERS, TOP EMPLOYERS AND SPECIAL GUESTS CAME TOGETHER TO CELEBRATE THE SUCCESSES OF THEMIS APPRENTICES AT THEIR ANNUAL AWARD CEREMONY.

AWARDS 2023

The prestigious Themis Inspire and Achieve Awards took place at Burnley Football Club and saw Themis Apprentices and Employers winning trophies in categories including Future Boss, Digital Pioneer and Sustainability.

Around 200 nominees, their family and friends, distinguished guests and employers heard from Lancashire entrepreneur Antony Chesworth and Burnley MP Antony Higginbotham. Proud Chief Executive of Themis, Principal of Burnley College, Karen Buchanan said:

“Themis is proud of its track record in supporting the development of the very best Apprentices in the region – the Apprentices who go on to be a #futureboss and who make an incredible impact in the workplace.

“Thanks to their dedication – and the commitment of the forward-thinking employers who support our Themis Apprentices on their journey to successwe can be confident that industry in the region is in the safest of hands going forward.”

Guests of honour on the night were sustainable energy experts Green Shield Group, based in Ribchester, who donated a state-of-the-art laptop to all Apprentice winners.

Follow in the footsteps of our award-winning Apprentices by learning more about our industry-leading routes to success: burnley.ac.uk/themis-home/

EDUCATION NEWS

BESTSELLING AUTHOR

Westholme welcomed international bestselling author A F Steadman for a visit as part of the Skandar and the Unicorn Thief paperback tour organised by Silverwood Events. Westholme invited schools from the area to join the visit and students thoroughly enjoyed meeting the author and creating their own character in the engaging session as well as getting their own special edition of the New York Times’ bestseller signed.

SUNNY SESTRIERE

Westholme students had a momentous time on a ski trip to Italy over half-term – the first ski trip for Seniors since 2020! Ninety three students immersed themselves in all that Sestriere had to offer – skiing, sledging, ice-skating and enjoying the breath-taking scenery. A spot of shopping and enjoying the Italian cuisine was also a highlight of the trip.

TENNIS TEAM SUCCESS

Stonyhurst Boys’ Tennis A team recently triumphed over four schools to secure their place in the LTA North Regional Championships in Sunderland. The Girls’ Tennis A team also played against Withington Girls’ School in February, performing brilliantly, winning 10-5 overall. The girls now join the boys at the North Regional Championships. Both teams have performed exceptionally well considering only four schools qualify for these championships.

EXCELLENT IN ALL AREAS

St Pius X Prep School is still setting the benchmark for private education. Its reputation for bespoke teaching, nurturing and progress is further highlighted by a recent glowing inspection praising staff and pupils alike

Arecent school inspection has given St Pius X Prep School on Garstang Road in Preston top marks across the board, commending the school as ‘excellent’ in all areas.

The Independent School Inspectorate (ISI) visited St Pius X, an independent school for boys and girls aged 2 to 11 in November, conducting formal interviews with every pupil and nearly all members of staff. The inspection team examined pupils’ work and conducted an online survey with every parent from Nursery to Year 6.

They found the nursery provision inspiring and the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) a stimulating and caring environment, where learning styles are nurtured and pupil care is outstanding. The Headmaster has built the vision for St Pius from the foundations in EYFS with values, opportunity, bespoke learning and growth-mindset at the core of the experiences for every child across the school.

The inspectorate also commented on the progress that every child makes, regardless

of their ability. The Headmaster, leadership team and every teacher has embraced the relentless pursuit of progress and the importance of knowing each child, fully. These principles have resulted in exceptional achievement for the pupils socially and academically.

children have for each other is palpable, genuine and ‘outstanding’.

Delighted Headmaster, Patrick Gush, said he was extremely proud of the progress made at the school, commenting: “We have embedded systems and procedures and most importantly, built trust among the exceptional teachers. I have encouraged them to be themselves, share their practice and model kindness and integrity.

“A robust, dynamic curriculum excites the staff and inspires the children – this is exciting and it has made us an exceptional team. The parents recognise this, the children explore fearlessly and they rise to every challenge in a safe space without feeling pressured. This enables each child (and adult) to excel and progress.

Results speak for themselves. Two pupils from Year 6 have secured places at Eton –there have been numerous sport, music, drama and academic scholarships awarded by local independent senior schools and this year, the school achieved 90.9 per cent Grammar School passes into Lancaster Grammar Schools.

The ISI Inspection agreed that both pupil achievement and pupil development are excellent. They also concluded that the respect, care and understanding the

“I am immensely proud to be the Headmaster at St Pius X Prep School and to be leading such a dedicated and professional team of nursery practitioners, teachers and support staff.’’

He concluded: “I have always known it, but I am delighted for the incredible team, that St Pius X Prep School is now officially recognised as excellent.’’

This truly is the best start in life and a great place to be. n

St Pius X Catholic Preparatory School

200 Garstang Road

Fulwood, Preston PR2 8RD 01772 719937 / 713630

enquiries@st-piusx.lancs.sch.uk stpiusx.co.uk

A ROBUST, DYNAMIC CURRICULUM EXCITES THE STAFF AND INSPIRES THE CHILDREN

Photography: Roger Moore

Photography: Roger Moore

WHOLEHEARTEDLY EMPOWERED

Catherine Robinson learns about the innovative empowerment of young pupils at a top leading Lancashire school. Simply put, the difference is Westholme!

Westholme Prep really is like nothing else! The brand-new Prep building, nestled at the heart of the beautiful Wilmar Lodge campus, ensures every Prep pupil enjoys a refreshingly different education rooted in the acquisition of 21st century skills: “Westholmians of just four years old recently designed their own individual bubble wands,” explains principal, Dr Richard Robson. “They used computer-aided design software and then printed their own wands using one of the school’s 3D printers. Dressed as superheroes, they proceeded on their quest across the beautiful school site to try out their wands’ superpowers!”

This is just one daily example of how pupils’ experiences at Westholme are enriched by the intertwining of real-life skills with their learning. Such unique educational experiences are part of a new, pioneering curriculum which encourages determination and

independence, whilst empowering pupils with an unquenchable thirst for learning. This ambitious approach is based on an educational philosophy like no other, in which the pupils learn metacognition –the understanding of learning itself. The result is an education that defies normal expectations and has resulted in Westholme’s proud position as Lancashire’s highest achieving school: “When pupils are empowered, they love every minute at Westholme,” enthuses Dr Robson.

PREP PUPILS DEVELOP NEGOTIATING SKILLS, RISK TAKING STRATEGIES AND SOLUTION-FOCUSED APPROACHES

Westholme’s Prep pupils benefit from the school’s Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Programme, where they develop negotiating skills, risk-taking strategies and solutionfocused approaches. The school’s extensive links with the community enables the provision of talks, workshops and hands-on learning situations, including role-playing of careers and the growing of their own businesses. Such experiences equip them with the self-confidence and resourcefulness

required of the global leaders of tomorrow: “Twenty-first century skills are frontloaded so that even the youngest pupils are familiar with digital learning, taking the initiative, working in a team and the development of emotional resilience,” Dr Robson continues.

The new Prep building itself has a state-ofthe-art ventilation system, optimising the air quality to produce the best oxygen mix for health and cognition. Its classroom windows showcase the picturesque Lancashire hills and downstairs classrooms lead onto a dedicated outdoor learning space. A purpose-built wooded adventure area, William’s Wood and a brand-new adventure trail, are in daily use. Outdoor learning provision is woven through the Prep curriculum, underlining Westholme’s passionate belief in its motto: A healthy mind in a healthy body (mens sana incorpore sano). Prep pupils also access the swimming pool, tennis courts, astroturf, recording studio, photography infinity wall, science laboratories, 3D Computer Aided Design (CAD) technology and cookery rooms across the school site.

Westholme Prep is a school for the future. It is guided by forward-thinking concepts and supported by innovation – and yet it prides itself on the traditional manners and values which have underpinned its warm, friendly community for a hundred years.

Prep pupils are cherished, individuality is celebrated, the relationships between children and teachers are transformative and the fruitful links between parents, staff and pupils are the beating heart of the Westholme family: “We know every pupil individually,” says Dr Robson. “That’s what makes the difference.” n

If you want to know more about the exciting opportunities at Westholme please contact: registrar@westholmeschool.com

Westholme School

Wilmar Lodge, Meins Road

Pleasington BB2 6QU 01254 506070

westholmeschool.com

WESTHOLME PREP IS A SCHOOL FOR THE FUTURE. IT IS GUIDED BY UNIQUE AND INNOVATIVE CONCEPTS AND SUPPORTED BY SPACE-AGE TECHNOLOGY

LEARNING, KNOWLEDGE & LIFE SKILLS

With a broad curriculum that suits all learning styles, the International Baccalaureate Diploma is a globally recognised qualification that is highly regarded as an excellent alternative to A levels

Each year thousands of pupils in the UK choose the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma as a challenging, globally recognised alternative to A levels.

The IB is offered in schools across 158 countries worldwide – one of them is Stonyhurst College in the Ribble Valley, where just under half of the current Year 12 cohort has chosen to study for the IB Diploma.

Many of those pupils are unsure of the career path they want to take so the IB Diploma, which offers a broader curriculum, is ideal, as Deborah Kirkby, Director of IB at Stonyhurst, explains: “Pupils can sometimes feel constrained studying in-depth for three A levels, so when you explain to them that the IB curriculum is broader, they find that a very attractive prospect.

“The IB is not just about learning content it’s about developing the character in young people – helping them to flourish as adults.

IB Diploma fits really well with that.

“Stonyhurst also has a rich and varied co-curricular programme that supports the creativity, activity and service (CAS) aspect of the IB. From Year 9, pupils choose one co-curricular activity from each strand of our co-curricular offering, these being adventure, chaplaincy, performing arts and sport and in the IB pupils are encouraged to reflect on how these experiences help them to develop their skills.

PUPILS HAVE BECOME VERY FAMILIAR WITH IB, IT’S NOT NEW TO THEM AND IT’S VERY MUCH INTEGRATED INTO SCHOOL LIFE AND IS VIEWED AS BEING AN EXCELLENT ALTERNATIVE TO A LEVELS

Within the IB we build skills such as communication, risk-taking, caring and reflection and these are all part of Stonyhurst’s Jesuit Pupil Profile, so the

“Pupils have become very familiar with IB, it’s not new to them, it’s very much integrated into school life and is viewed as being an excellent alternative to A levels.”

Since launching the IB Diploma in 2013, Stonyhurst pupils have flourished and the college has consistently been placed in the ‘Top 10’ UK league table of small cohort IB schools: “Stonyhurst has taken its place amongst some really long-standing IB schools, so this is a really good indicator of how well our pupils are doing.”

The IB takes a different, multi-layered approach compared to A levels, which is an academic challenge as the Diploma combines both exams alongside coursework in each subject: “The IB also includes a Theory of Knowledge course which develops critical thinking and pupils also have a 4,000 word essay to write, conducting their own independent research, so it very much prepares them for independent study and being ‘university ready’.

“IB pupils have to manage multiple subjects and learn time management skills. They process a lot of coursework, undertake research and get involved in team problem solving, which is an important part of the Diploma.

“The coursework element of IB is attractive to many pupils, who like the idea of having already gained marks before they sit the exam.”

language alongside other subjects such as the humanities, mathematics and sciences: “Having completed the IB, our young people often receive multiple offers for a wide range of courses from universities in different countries. Degree choices vary from medicine, architecture and engineering, to law, management and philosophy. We have pupils who have offers from Oxford, Durham and St Andrews as well as from universities in Spain, Italy and Switzerland.”

As an international boarding and day school, Stonyhurst welcomes pupils from all over the world. It presents a vibrant, learning environment and, in their final years of study, the IB Diploma has become a mainstream qualification for Stonyhurst pupils: “Those who have taken the IB route have gone on to do great things. They learn such a lot and they all say that the IB prepared them really well for university.

The broad IB curriculum at Stonyhurst results in many pupils leaving with a bilingual Diploma having studied a

“The IB is very much about learning, knowledge and life skills so overall it’s an excellent option.” n

THE IB IS NOT JUST ABOUT LEARNING CONTENT IT’S ABOUT DEVELOPING THE CHARACTER IN YOUNG PEOPLE – HELPING THEM TO FLOURISH AS ADULTS

Chris Eccles is overseeing a new partnership that is bringing global brand INEOS and the impressive new 4x4 Grenadier to Lancashire, writes

Paul

Agnew

. Photography: Peter Austin

Chris Eccles was born to work in the motor industry. In fact, his date of birth, 1st March, just happens to fall on new car ‘registration plate change’ day!

“Every year I always fancy taking a day off to celebrate, but let’s just say that would be a tad difficult to justify,” smiles Chris.

Especially this year as Chris is overseeing a new investment which has expanded the family-owned Bowker Motor Group’s brand portfolio.

Bowker, you see, has partnered up with global manufacturer INEOS Automotive as the sole agent for Lancashire for the impressive

new Grenadier – a built-for-purpose, ready-for-anything 4x4 which is causing something of a storm.

listing the country’s richest folk.

Back in 2017, Sir Jim, the INEOS chairman as well as a car enthusiast and experienced adventurer, identified a gap in the market for a stripped back, utilitarian, hard-working 4x4 engineered for modern day compliance and reliability.

It was his idea to develop the Grenadier from scratch and he decided to chew the fat with his friends over a drink or two in their favourite watering hole in London’s affluent Belgravia.

Anyone guess the name of said establishment? Give a prize to the first to shout out ‘Grenadier’!

INEOS Automotive Limited was duly formed and a senior team of automotive professionals assembled to bring the vision to reality with a fresh perspective of 4x4 development and manufacturing.

And when they decided the time was right to go to market, they scoured the land in search of suitable partners. Organisations they felt could meet their demanding criteria.

First up as agent for Lancashire? Bowker Motor Group.

“It’s a great honour and a real opportunity for us,” says Chris. “We are one of 24 UK sites among the first 160 locations to be confirmed in markets around the world.”

The new INEOS Automotive segment of the extensive Bowker Motor Group brand portfolio is based at the company’s existing Ribble Valley dealership on the A59 in Osbaldeston.

New exterior signage is in situ, the showroom environment has been installed –and Bowker are all ready to offer the full INEOS sales and aftersales experience for the Grenadier. This is a vehicle certain to have widespread appeal - particularly suited for farmers, estate managers, builders, joiners and rural vets, to name but a few!

Basically, anyone who needs a workhorse vehicle that can deliver optimum performance day-in-and-day-out, irrespective of weather or ground conditions.

Bowker really are in at the get-go as INEOS Automotive plans to have a 200-strong sales and aftersales network for the Grenadier spanning over 50 countries within the next few months.

Chris, who turned 48 earlier this month, is a proud Lancastrian with many personal and professional connections to the county –east, west and central.

of the area and an understanding of what our customers look for in a motor dealership.

“It’s a straight-talking, do-it-right-first-time approach around these parts and Bowker has a great reputation as a caring, family firm that always delivers on exceeding customers’ expectations.”

Married to Renee, with three children and two French bulldogs, Chris left school at 16, secured a work placement in junior management and then went on to gain NVQs in retail before joining the motor trade full-time at 19, working for Dutton Forshaw Land Rover in Brock.

The INEOS Grenadier is the brainchild of Sir Jim Ratcliffe who, at the last count, hadn’t many in front of him when it came to

“I’ve lived on the Fylde and Burnley and worked in Preston, St Anne’s, Blackburn and the Ribble Valley, so I have a good knowledge

Bowker gave Chris his big break into automotive management at the age of 26 when he was promoted to MINI Sales and Marketing Manager, coinciding with the launch of this new car in 2001. It’s fair to say he’s never looked back as in 2012, Chris was made a Director of Bowker Motor Group.

“This industry has always been a great fit for me and I genuinely mean it when I say I still get the same enjoyment and excitement from the job as I did on day one.

“Yes, of course there are challenges, but the team here is strong, determined and very capable.

“INEOS will have carried out plenty of due diligence before finally selecting their UK partners for the launch of the Grenadier. That Bowker is among the chosen few, speaks volumes for our reputation within the industry and we will do everything we can to make it a massive success.” n

Footnote: An indication of the size of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS Group operation: This global power in the manufacturer of petrochemicals, speciality chemicals and oil products (and a new vehicle), employs 26,000 people across 36 businesses, with a production network spanning 194 manufacturing facilities in 29 countries.

THE IMPRESSIVE NEW GRENADIER IS A BUILT-FOR-PURPOSE, READY-FOR-ANYTHING 4X4 WHICH IS CAUSING SOMETHING OF A STORM

IT’S A GREAT HONOUR AND A REAL OPPORTUNITY FOR US. WE ARE ONE OF 24 UK SITES AMONG THE FIRST 160 LOCATIONS TO BE CONFIRMED IN MARKETS AROUND THE WORLD

BUSINESS MATTERS

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

TOP GASTROPUBS

Lancashire pubs dominated the top 10 in the prestigious Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs 2023, with the Parkers Arms in Newton-in-Bowland, taking the much-prized number one top spot with the Freemasons at Wiswell winning third place and The White Swan at Fence achieving seventh place. The Top 50 Gastropubs was created to recognise the hard-working individuals in the gastropub industry and to create a list of the very best dining pubs in the UK.

TOURISM STARS

The stars of Lancashire tourism and hospitality shone brightly at the  Lancashire Tourism Awards. Among them were Mitton Hall winner of the Hotel Wedding Venue of the Year, Fence Gate Lodge, which took the Lancashire Perfect Stay Award, Thornton Hall was named as winner of the Small Event of the Year, the Taste Lancashire Producer Award went to Brindle Distillery and the Wedding Venue of the Year went to the Out Barn, Waddington.

SUNDAY TIMES HONOUR

The Cartford Inn has again been listed in the prestigious Sunday Times Best Places to Stay, having won last year the special Foodie Hotel of the Year Award. This is the reward of 15 years’ dedication and continuous reinvestment by the Cartford family – a commitment that has seen the Lancashire 17th century coaching inn, become a leading hotel with a national and international reputation, being recognised as the best in hospitality. A refurbishment in the 300-year-old part of the Inn has started and will see two new, contemporary ‘Cartford style’ bedrooms re-opening this spring. To get news on the development follow the Cartford on Facebook or Instagram.

SIMPLY THE BEST

Porsche GB has named Porsche Centre Preston among the top dealerships in the country. The dealership was runner-up out of 46 in the country using the Porsche GB Balanced Scorecard, which ranks centres for their operational performance.  Porsche GB revealed the UK rankings at an event hosted by TV personality Fred Sirieix at The Grove Hotel in Hertfordshire. Paul Bowker, chief executive of Bowker Motor Group, owners of Porsche Centre Preston, said: “Thank you to our team for their dedication and commitment and we are incredibly grateful to customers for their positive feedback.”

MICHELIN GUIDE

Fell Bistro is celebrating after being confirmed as a new entry in the Michelin Guide. The restaurant, on Berry Lane in Longridge, serves modern bistro dishes, in a casual dining setting. Fell Bistro opened in September 2022 and is a joint venture between Matt Willdigg, chef director, Oli Martin, chef director and Alex Blamire, operations director. Oli said: “We are thrilled about the inclusion in the Michelin Inspector’s Favourite New Restaurants. We set out to create a neighbourhood bistro where you can come relax and enjoy great food. It really feels like we’re on the right track when we hear news like this.”

SUSTAINABILITY AWARD

BMW UK recently presented their first-ever Sustainability Award to Bowker Motor Group. The award was one of the national BMW UK Retailer Awards and recognises the group’s commitment to sustainability. The business has engaged an Energy Champion to discover smarter ways to reduce their carbon footprint. And, last year, Bowker revealed that it has eliminated all but 95 per cent of its paper transactions and communications. The BMW UK Awards were presented at the ACC Liverpool by comedian Alan Carr and TV presenter Edith Bowman.

New business aside, Ashley also decided to get serious about his financial future. Acutely aware that self-employment did not automatically come with a pension or lump-sum at the end, Ashley sought advice from UCLan’s business hub Propellor, which offers ongoing business support for its graduates. His mentor, Craig Lawrenson, agreed that planning his long-term financial future was an integral part of his business plan. Craig’s advice was simple: “Choose a company you are comfortable with, and which understands you and your business.”

Ashley contacted Two10 Investment Services and met with Clementine Bell, one of the Two10 advisers.

“Immediately upon meeting Clem I knew I was doing the right thing,” explains Ashley.

“I knew Raymond James Ribble Valley was integral to my community and heavily involved here. Clem explained how Two10 was ideal for me, just starting on my financial journey with some limited savings from two previous employers’ pension schemes. Consolidating these into my new Two10 scheme was unbelievably easy.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

Ashley Allen is a man who is serious about his future. In the last 18 months Ashley has started his own business, helped plan his wedding, written a 220-page e-book and invested in his financial future with advice and guidance from Two10 Investment Services. And he’s done all that with a smile on his face!

Blackburn-born Ashley completed his schooling in the Sixth Form at Clitheroe Royal Grammar School and graduated from UCLan with a degree and a masters, both in computing. This 26-year-old Longridge resident became a freelancer in web development in 2017 upon his graduation.

However, in the autumn of 2021 Ashley did what many dream of and started his own business. Leaving his employer with their blessing, Ashley set about writing code and building online systems and services for clients, who came to him from his reputation in open-source development. Ashley had previously contributed code to the Laravel framework and in turn this drove traffic and clients to his own nascent business.

Ashley’s business, Ash Allen Design, now boasts clients in London, Sunderland and Washington State, all serviced from his base in Longridge. Ashley continues to contribute to open-source development, blogging about

security vulnerabilities and their remedy and methods to speed up websites. The blogs are not only helpful to others, they are a powerful marketing tool, delivering leads for new business. Feedback to the posts is so positive, in autumn 2022 Ashley launched his first e-book Battle Ready Laravel based on extended versions of his popular blog posts.

“I view my Two10 investment as part of my exit strategy from my business, even though that is decades away. I know several people older than me who all say they wish they had started saving for their pension sooner and now regret they didn’t. Clem has never made me feel as though I was asking a silly question even though, I would guess, I knew as much about investment strategy and financial planning as she did about open-source programming! We have settled on a plan which means I do not have to worry about where I will stand financially in the years ahead and which is affordable to me now.”

If you’d like to discuss your own financial future, why not make an appointment with the Two10 team? Like Ashley, you’ll be made welcome – and our coffee is great too! n

Risk warnings: With investing, your capital is at risk Two10 Investment Services Ltd. is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Registered in England and Wales, No. 13010014

Raymond James Ribble Valley

8 Berry Lane, Longridge, Preston PR3 3JA 01772 970470

info@two10investmentservices.co.uk

two10investmentservices.co.uk

With guidance from Longridge-based Two10 Investment Services, a 26-year-old freelancer who has clients in London and Washington State, is confidently investing in his financial future

EXTRAORDINARY EXTRA!

Check out this unbeatable deal from the UK’s best-loved car. MINI is offering free car insurance for a year. But you need to hurry, advises Paul Agnew. Photography: Peter Austin

Face it, we all love a deal. Especially when it can provide a tempting incentive to something we already really want.

A free garlic bread with our favourite pasta dish, extra points on our weekly shop, a limousine to take us to/from the airport, a complimentary glass of fizz at the hotel. But while all the above have merit and appeal, they pale into insignificance when compared to the latest offer from MINI, the country’s best-loved car.

For this extraordinary ‘extra’ is guaranteed to put a genuine ‘Spring’ in your step.

FREE COMPREHENSIVE CAR INSURANCE FOR A YEAR!

Now that is a proper deal but be warned –time is of the essence as it only applies to new MINIs ordered up to the end of this month (March 2023). Best advice – get your skates on.

BENEFITS

Many key benefits are included:

• R epairs guaranteed for FIVE years,

performed by qualified MINI technicians with MINI parts – keeping your MINI in the best condition.

• Uninsured driver promise – protecting your No Claims Bonus and policy excess if an accident was the fault of an uninsured driver.

• C ar contents and personal belongings cover up to £1,000.

• Up to £1,000 cover for replacement vehicle keys and locks.

convictions in the past five years with no major convictions.

Aside from MINI Electric and John Cooper Works models, all other members of the fabulous MINI range are included. And if you need reminding, that covers the three-door Hatch, the five-door Hatch, the Convertible, the Clubman and the Countryman.

• The MINI Hatch – to all intents and purposes the MINI reborn – is the original icon. Basically, back where it all began, the car that helped us discover our love of corners and still inspires our passion for go-kart handling. From the 1964 Monte Carlo Rally to now, cars that have you hooked before you even set off. Designed to make life a whole lot brighter, built to stand out and break routine. Shake off those shackles and wherever 2023 may take you, let the MINI Hatch help you find the way.

Open to UK residents between the ages of 21-80 you must be able to pass an ID check at your address, hold a full UK/EU driving licence, have had no more than three at-fault claims in the past five years and have no more than three minor driving

• The MINI Clubman, sophisticated and quintessentially urban, is artfully constructed with practicality in mind. Being 4.25 metres long, it’s a step-up in size and functionality, with a roomy interior superbly crafted from top-quality materials. Mature and worldly in its outlook, a connoisseur of understated

GO ON, TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS ONE-OFF OPPORTUNITY TO GET EVEN MORE MINI FOR YOUR MONEY

style and robust craftsmanship. And with its six doors – including split rear doors – and seating for five, it’s perfect for long and short trips. Opens doors to the great outdoors.

• The MINI Countryman is right there when adventure beckons. A versatile, five-seater Sport Activity Vehicle. As big as it feels on the inside, the Countryman is still a MINI through and through. Gliding through the city, coasting through the mountains. So effortless. At just under 4.3 metres long, this is a car with some serious luggage capacity in addition to ample legroom. With powerful engines, it tackles even the trickiest terrain with ease. So what are you waiting for? The world won’t explore itself.

• The MINI Convertible is a free spirit. With four seats and a fully-electric soft-top, it’s perfect for an open-air drive with your friends. Life with the top down is always animated, exciting and fresh. Prepare to live a life packed with impulse and unbridled energy. A nonstop thrill behind the wheel for those who know there’s always something else to experience. Go on, feel the breeze. More good news is that while many dealerships are currently experiencing stock difficulties, there is no such problem with MINIs. Bowker report a ‘strong stockholding’. Go on, take advantage of this one-off opportunity to get even more MINI for your money. n

Bowker Blackburn MINI Trident Way, Blackburn BB1 3NU 01254 274333 bowkerblackburnmini.co.uk

CAPABLE OF GREAT THINGS

BOOK YOUR TEST DRIVE

The 4WD vehicle with a capacity to go almost anywhere and do almost anything. With a third row of seating, Defender 130 offers best-in-class space for up to eight passengers. Share your experience using #MeetDefender. Contact us to book your extended test drive now.

VERTU LAND ROVER NELSON Churchill Way, Lomeshaye Business Park, Lancashire, Nelson, BB9 6LL 0330 108 0113 vertumotors.com

VERTU LAND ROVER BOLTON Kay Street, Bolton, BL1 2RX 0330 108 1023 vertumotors.com

Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. Official WLTP Fuel Consumption for the Defender range (excl. PHEV) in mpg (l/100km): Combined 18.7-32.8 (15.1-8.6). WLTP CO2 Emissions 340-226 g/km. Defender PHEV range in mpg (1/100km): Combined 72.4-85.6 (3.9-3.3). WLTP CO2 Emissions: 88-74g/km. The figures provided are as a result of official manufacturer’s tests in accordance with EU legislation. For comparison purposes only. Real world figures may differ. CO2 and fuel economy figures may vary according to factors such as driving styles, environmental conditions, wheel fitment, load and accessories. The information is our best advice at the time of publishing and is subject to change. Please contact your Retailer for the latest information. Vertu Land Rover is a trading name of Albert Farnell Limited which is an authorised representative of Bristol Street First Investments Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Company registration number 00391896. VAT Registration number 902737238. Registered office: Vertu House, Fifth Avenue Business Park, Team Valley, Gateshead, NE11 0XA.

A MAN FOR ALL SEASONS

Author Dave Thomas ’s latest book on Burnley FC was co-written with iconic former chairman Barry Kilby, who tells his story. From taking the club under his wing and subsequent success to how he has since become known nationally for a campaign he runs to combat prostate cancer

Barry Kilby, on assuming the chairman’s role at Burnley Football Club, became only the fourth person to occupy that position in the years following 1955, when the legendary Bob Lord took control of the club. In between there was John Jackson and Frank Teasdale but none generated such respect and gratitude as Barry Kilby.

With quiet modesty he took control in 1998 of a club that, despite an illustrious history, was heading nowhere, had little money, debts, a manager Stan Ternent who was totally frustrated and a boardroom that was viewed by many as just a cosy little drinking club. Two of those directors, however, were

determined to do something to resurrect the club and approached Kilby, who had just sold a large percentage of his business. Barry listened to them and seeing the state of the club that he had supported from boyhood, agreed to help.

Large sums of money were invested, the manager was reborn and within two years the club had won promotion to the Championship. It was the first stage of a journey that took the club to the Premier League, first with manager Owen Coyle and then with Sean Dyche.

In 2020 the club was bought by an American company, ALK. Barry stepped down from the board and at the beginning

of 2022 the time seemed right to put his experiences down on paper. That book, Starting From Scratch, bears a title that comes from his early business life in the scratch card games business that grew and grew to feature in newspapers all over the world, including The Times. His stories about Murdoch and Maxwell are marvellous.

NOTHING WAS OVERNIGHT, THERE WAS NO OVERSPENDING, THE CLUB WAS BUILT NOT BOUGHT AND SLOWLY EMERGED FROM THE DOLDRUMS TO TAKE ON THE GIANTS OF THE FOOTBALL WORLD

No mean footballer himself in his teens, the book covers his time as a youth player at Burnley FC when he chose BFC over Hull University. When his embryonic football career came to nothing, he moved into the printing world working initially with his father. Branching out on his own gave him the means to enable him to put money into the club.

Nothing was overnight, there was no overspending, the club was built not bought and slowly emerged from the doldrums to take on the giants of the football world. In the Premier League it was David against

Goliath, Harrods versus Poundstretcher, with the added bonus of superiority over Blackburn Rovers. There was even a foray into Europe one year, against all the odds.

Perhaps he might have been chairman of the club longer, but in 2012 he was laid low by prostate cancer. The battle against that was successful but it meant relinquishing his position as chairman, although he retained his position on the board and later became vice-chairman, the position he held until the club was sold. No longer the major shareholder, it was not something he was entirely comfortable with, with no control over the sale.

Today he can look back on what he achieved at the club. Under his stewardship there were some difficult moments, but debts were eventually eradicated thanks to his astute juggling of the finances and there was a very healthy bank balance. His maxim was always one of not betting the ranch and of exercising caution. When the jar on the mantelpiece was empty, another one of his expressions, spending was pared to the bone. But how it paid off.

Promotion to the Premier League in 2009 under Owen Coyle saved the financial day, although relegation followed. But back in the Premier League with Sean Dyche, came the best period at the club for years and Kilby can look back with pride at this

accomplishment. It is for this that he is held in such high regard amongst supporters. Visits to Istanbul and Athens in the Europa League were the icing on the cake. No-one ever thought that this was possible for a club as small as Burnley.

IN HIS FOREWORD TO THE BOOK, BBC BROADCASTER TONY LIVESEY ASKED, ‘WHERE IS THE BARRY KILBY STATUE AT TURF MOOR?’ IT’S A FAIR QUESTION

Kilby still has a table at the club on matchdays although his view is now from the Longside and not the Directors’ Box – his passion remains just as strong as ever. His company still provides the lottery tickets for the club and he remains a trustee of Burnley FC in the Community, although this is run separately from Burnley Football Club.

His other passion today is the work he does for the Barry Kilby Prostate Cancer Appeal. This is the testing organisation he runs that offers PSA tests at football, cricket and golf clubs up and down the country. The desire to do this stemmed from his own experiences and the realisation that men, often reluctant to visit a doctor, or habitually brushing illness aside, will readily visit a football ground with their pals to be tested.

Over the years since he started this, it is reasonable to say that many lives have been saved. In his foreword to the book, BBC broadcaster Tony Livesey asked, ‘Where is the Barry Kilby statue at Turf Moor?’ It’s a fair question. n

FORTY YEARS IN HOSPITALITY

Photography: Kirsten Platt

Meeting with Kevin Berkins, it’s hard to put a ‘label’ on him –master butcher, sausage maker of distinction, skilled chef, hotelier and restaurateur and gin master.

Most of us would best identify him as one of these, however he’s actually all of those things. With a work life spanning over 60 years he’s experienced all the usual ups and downs that go hand in hand with running not just one – but numerous businesses simultaneously. Every one of the businesses he has established has played a part in his success, but there’s one that he’s happy to admit has underpinned most of his life, and given him the most satisfaction – the Fence Gate at Fence.

This year sees Kevin celebrate 40 years dedicated to the hospitality industry at the Fence Gate and it’s fantastic to be able to share this good news story at a time when the industry as a whole, currently faces so many challenges. Having worked with Kevin on various projects over the last 15 years I met up with him at the Fence Gate (where incidentally he was busy in the kitchen doing some butchering when I arrived) to get an insight into how it all began and what the future holds for this larger than life character.

By his own admission, Kevin wasn’t academic, but he was gifted in his ability to spot an opportunity when it presented itself. Leaving school at just 14 to work alongside his father, who at the time had a couple of butchers shops, he learned his skills on the job and obtained his formal qualifications at Burnley College. Aged just 21, he left to set up his own butchers shop in Nelson, no mean feat for anyone so young, but even more so given that interest rates were around 15.5 per cent and no high street bank was prepared to lend him the money. Needless to say Kevin overcame that hurdle one way or another, but the agreed repayment terms left him under no illusion

that he had to make a success of it.

Despite leaving school with no academic qualifications, Kevin clearly had amazing business acumen and slowly but surely, he expanded his business with numerous butchers shops in and around the Burnley and Pendle area. At around the same time, the frozen food revolution began. Lazy K Frozen Foods was a new venture for Kevin with two market stalls in the Arndale at Nelson, the first of its kind selling everything from arctic rolls to cod in butter sauce – it was a ‘stack ‘em high sell ‘em cheap’ model –and it was a hands down winner from the start.

The dog friendly traditional bar with wood burning stoves, stone floors and a stunning pewter bar serving real ales, is popular with locals and visitors alike and is busy throughout the day and evening. Incredibly, the Fence Gate is also noted in the Guinness Book of Records for having the largest collection of commercially available gins in the world –spectacularly displayed for all to see!

It would be remiss of me not to mention that whilst all this was happenning at the Fence Gate, Kevin was also, alongside his wife Michelle, establishing another business – totally unrelated to hospitality this time –michelle.b womenswear – now celebrating its 18th year!

Most people would at this stage of their life sit back, take stock and enjoy the fruits of their labour but when the pub over the road from the Fence Gate became vacant around 2015, to Kevin it was the obvious final piece of the jigsaw. The once run-down pub is barely recognisable having undergone a total redesign and build and now houses 24 luxury bedrooms and a function room which completes the guest experience for corporate and leisure visitors alike. This incredible focus on quality and attention to detail has gained the Lodge a Five Gold Star AA rating and just last month won the coveted title of Perfect Stay at the Lancashire Tourism Awards.

His biggest opportunity presented itself in 1982 when he bought the Fence Gate, an 18th century inn at the time being run as a small restaurant, from the receivers. It was the start of a labour of love which has seen the business evolve over four decades into a hugely popular bar, brasserie and function and wedding venue.

As plans for the Fence Gate developed, Kevin resigned himself to the fact that he just couldn’t keep all the plates spinning and took the decision in 1985 to sell the shops and focus entirely on the development and expansion of the hospitality side of his business. He persuaded David Gibbons who, at that time, was the head chef from the Café Royal Grill Room in London (who happened to be originally from Burnley) to make the move back ‘up north’ and help take the restaurant to the next level. The existing restaurant was stripped out and extended to create what is now known as The Brasserie –a stylish, welcoming space to meet with friends and family and enjoy anything from a light bite to something more substantial.

In 2009 another project took Kevin into unchartered waters on the ‘other side of the hill’ in the Ribble Valley. The Spread Eagle at Barrow formerly a Brewers Fayre site underwent a total transformation undertaken with the same enthusiasm, vision and passion witnessed at his other sites. The Eagle at Barrow as it is now known with its on site Berkin’s Deli was an instant success and with its upstairs function room, comfortable bar and dining areas, Taylors piano bar and fabulous outside space lends itself to any occasion.

It would be wrong to let this significant milestone of 40 years of dedicated service to hospitality pass without some kind of celebration and Kevin has a number of special events planned over the course of the year – watch this space! n

The Fence Gate & Fence Gate Lodge

Wheatley Lane Road

Fence, Nr Burnley BB12 9EE

01282 618101 – Fence Gate

01282 509555 – Fence Gate Lodge fencegate.co.uk

Kevin Berkins celebrates 40 years in the hospitality business and while he has run numerous enterprises, the one that has given him most satisfaction is the Fence Gate, writes Liz Walmsley.

EVERY ONE OF THE BUSINESSES HE HAS ESTABLISHED HAS PLAYED A PART IN HIS SUCCESS

BEST VALUE LUNCH IN THE RIBBLE VALLEY

While the set lunch and early supper menus represent great value at the Freemasons, there’s no compromise on the exquisite, seasonal flavours, writes

Tedd Walmsley

The Freemasons has once again been recognised as one of the very best gastro pubs by Estrella Damm in their recent 2023 awards. I’m not 100 per cent certain of the criteria but if incredible value for money was a category, they would win hands down.

The current set lunch and early supper menu is priced at just £37.50 and represents incredible value for money – this leisurely experience is everything you’d expect in terms of quality and the evolving menu never disappoints, starting with a selection of beautifully crafted snacks alongside the now famous lamb brioche. The choice of starters includes a

stunning, warming char grilled leek soup with smoked haddock followed by mains of cod, pork or a decadent aged beef suet pudding – the dishes reflect the season’s bounty for sure.

Puddings have been elevated to a whole new level with an egg custard tart with rhubarb and orange, the stand-out choice to finish what is truly a delicious lunch or supper.

As always, there’s something for everyone and the wide choice across the various menus offers a variety of options for both appetite and budget. There’s also a full programme of events and Bank Holiday special menus as we approach Easter and beyond. n

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

EARLY SPRING MENU Throughout March

Four courses (including snacks and pre-starter) £37.50

Lunch: Wednesday to Saturday: 12noon-2pm

Dinner: Wednesday to Friday: 5:30-7pm

SNACKS

Lamb fat and rosemary brioche, whey butter

*

TO START

RISOTTO

Jerusalem artichoke, pearl barley, hazelnut, aged parmesan

CHICKEN LIVER

Smooth parfait, Yorkshire rhubarb, toasted sourdough SOUP

Chargrilled leek and smoked haddock

*

MAINS

COD

Roast loin, Morteau sausage, puy lentil ragout, chicken butter sauce

ORGANIC PORK

Slow cooked and crispy belly, Yorkshire rhubarb, sauce of mead, Lancashire cheese potatoes

AGED BEEF

Steamed suet pudding, pickled red cabbage, jus, triple cooked chips

*

DESSERTS

EGG CUSTARD TART

Rhubarb and orange

HOT CHOCOLATE

Chocolate fondant, hazelnut praline ice cream, cocoa nib

CHEESE

Selection of British artisan cheese and biscuits (£6.95 supplement)

FREEM ASONS

Freemasons at Wiswell

8 Vicarage Fold Wiswell BB7 9DF 01254 822218 freemasonsatwiswell.com

T he Freemasons @ wiswell chef

Steven Smith Chef & Managing Director 01254 822218 ext 2 / 07794 408887

freemasonsatwiswell.com/steven-smith/consultancy

LIVE RIBBLE VALLEY SINGLES SUPPER CLUB

Thursday 13th April

The Rum Fox, Grindleton

Thursday 11th May

The Coach & Horses, Bolton-by-Bowland

Thursday 8th June

Ye Horns Inn, Inglewhite

SUPPER

The hugely popular Live Ribble Valley Singles Supper Club has enjoyed some sell-out events while the Dinner Club has taken part in some fabulous fine dining experiences

It’s been a cracking start to the year for both the Live Ribble Valley Singles Supper Club and the Dinner Club. A sellout Sunday lunch at the delightful Black Bull in January was followed up in February

E-mail: supperclubenquiries@live-magazines.co.uk

enjoyed private dining at The Three Fishes for Nigel Haworth’s latest collaboration with

walkers who enjoy both the countryside and good food and I’ve recently been told of a

If any of this sounds like fun, please get in touch – the group will make you feel very welcome! Contact our host Lynn: 07753 579745

16:00

ROCKETMAN

17:00

LOMAX BROTHERS

18:00

LUKE

McQUILLAN 18:45

JUST THE BRAVE

17:30

AMPS & HEELS 20:15

CRAIG EDDIE 21:30

HEADLINE ACT DONT STOP QUEEN NOW

BREAKING NEW GROUND

The Ribble Valley is renowned for its delicious local produce and first-class cuisine. This month the bar has well and truly been raised with the much-anticipated opening of the Rum Fox at Grindleton – a stunning country gastropub.

Talented Bob Geldeard has devised a menu at the Rum Fox that beautifully fuses the traditional with the contemporary. His modern style of cooking is much-respected by his peers and he has forged a reputation as an innovative, ground-breaking chef.

Two years ago, Bob took over the Rum Fox, formerly the Buck Inn, as chef patron. The refurbishment has been a labour of love, culminating in a soft opening for family and friends recently and the pub is officially open for bookings from 15th March.

“It feels great to be up and running,” says Bob. “It’s been a long time in the making but it’s been worth it. Everything looks amazing.”

The seasonally changing menu devised by Bob, also reflects the pub’s relaxed mix of classic and contemporary. Like all good eateries, the menu is not extensive – but it pushes the boundaries in terms of being big on flavour.

From delicious pies with fabulously tasty

fillings to the sophisticated and delicate cod loin in champagne and oyster sauce, the line-up is interesting and exciting, with each dish executed to perfection.

There’s meat and dairy produce from local farms, fish from Wellgate in Clitheroe and English cheeses from the Courtyard Dairy.

“We are using local suppliers wherever we can,” says Bob, who has also devised a ‘surprise five-course tasting menu’ that a whole table of guests can enjoy.

With the pub having been totally re-modelled, the traditional element has wood panelling, oak beams, leather chairs and a stone fireplace with log-burner while the restaurant has a private dining area and open kitchen making it a vibrant eating-out experience for guests. There is also an outdoor courtyard/terrace with glass partitions and a roaring fire that has fantastic views over Pendle Hill.

Reflecting the laid-back ambience, diners can enjoy any of the dishes from the menu in the bar, restaurant or courtyard. Undoubtedly, exciting times lie ahead for Bob and the Rum Fox team! n

The Rum Fox is open for bookings from 15th March

Rum Fox

Sawley Road, Grindleton, Clitheroe BB7 4QS 01200 871691

therumfox.co.uk

Open all day – Wednesday to Sunday

Food served – Wednesday to Saturday 12noon - 2pm, 5.30pm - 8.30pm – Sundays 12noon - 4.30pm

Hoorah for the Rum Fox! With chef patron Bob Geldeard at the helm of this newly-opened gastropub, diners are discovering food that is innovative, exciting and ultimately delicious

IT FEELS GREAT TO BE UP AND RUNNING. EVERYTHING LOOKS AMAZING!

SPRING EVENTS

The independent country hotel that is Gibbon Bridge, has played host to all manner of events throughout its 40-year history, from celebrity weddings, executive business dinners and conferences, but the award-winning venue somewhat remains the Ribble Valley’s best kept secret. The experienced team at the Gibbon Bridge are always dedicated to ensuring the best and most memorable experiences for guests, whether they are celebrating their birthday or anniversary in the restaurant, indulging in one of the hotel’s afternoon teas or enjoying a short break staying in one of the 30 bedrooms.

the neatly manicured grounds and a stay in one of the classic or newly refurbished rooms. Over more than four decades, Gibbon Bridge has become renowned for impeccable service and exquisite food. That’s why diners return

time after time to enjoy entertaining lunches that culminate in front of a roaring log fire, afternoon tea in the orangery accompanied by live piano recitals, guest speakers who deliver talks that are interesting and informative, romantic dinners for two or private dining for a special occasion – Gibbon Bridge really does have it all!

With plenty of events coming up at Gibbon Bridge, it’s the perfect place to ‘Celebrate, Dine and Stay’ in the stunning rural landscape. Set in the heart of the beautiful Forest of Bowland, this is a magical place. With special packages available, visitors can enjoy long walks in the surrounding countryside, a fabulous meal in the restaurant overlooking

WITH PLENTY OF EVENTS COMING UP AT GIBBON BRIDGE, IT’S THE PERFECT PLACE TO ‘CELEBRATE, DINE AND STAY’ IN THE STUNNING RURAL LANDSCAPE

There are a number of special events coming up so see what takes your fancy –and remember there’s always the option to extend your experience with one of the great-value ‘Dine and Stay’ packages. With the arrival of Spring, there is also the option of dining al fresco in one of the delightful, heated gazebos – perfect for supper with friends or a lively lunch with family. n For more information about Gibbon Bridge take a look at their website and sign up to their VIP list

Gibbon Bridge

Chipping PR3 2TQ 01995 61456

gibbon-bridge.co.uk

WHAT’S ON AT THE GIBBON BRIDGE

Sunday 19th March – Mother’s Day

Monday 20th March

Friday 31st March

Wednesday 7th & 26th April, 10th & 24th May, 7th & 21st June

Easter Sunday 9th April

Saturday 10th April

Friday 12th May

Saturday 24th June

Three-Course Lunch with Coffee and Pianist 12.30-2.30pm Adults £42.50/Children £20

Spring Floral Demo & Workshop

Half Day £45 & Full Day £75

Roger Price: Crime Fighter to Crime Writer Lunch 12 noon for 12.30pm £30pp

Musical Afternoon Tea

3.30pm £22.50pp

Sunday Lunch 12.30-2.30pm Two courses £31 & Three courses £36

Family Fun Day with Two-Course Lunch and Children’s Entertainer 12.00-3.30pm £30 Adults / Under 10s £17.50 / Under 5s £10

Wine Tasting (Fizz, Canapes, Dinner, Wine with B&B) £325 per couple (£75 for non-resident)

‘The Reading of the Will’ 1920s Murder Mystery

Three-Course Dinner £47pp (B&B inclusive option available)

As the Ribble Valley’s best kept secret, Gibbon Bridge is perfect for guests who want the ultimate Celebrate, Dine & Stay experience

COMING UP…

time after time – a series of great choices from a three-course menu, which can be extended to suit all tastes and appetites.

March brings you a tailored Midweek Specials Menu available Wednesdays and Thursdays –four courses for £39, in keeping with sustainable produce, featuring the ever popular Beef Fillet and Yorkshire Rhubarb. Nigel spoke enthusiastically about the private dining options available at The Fishes and, once again, confirmed these are proving to be popular choices with groups of friends, families and businesses alike. More information can be found on the website. Dine from the exceptional Seasonal Menu or speak with Nigel to create your very own bespoke menu. Finally, look out for some of Nigel’s friends –culinary giants in their own right coming to cook alongside him in a series of collaboration nights – they are always quick to sell out so please keep an eye on the website and on social media for what’s to come at The Fishes. n

We have to remember that the ethos of Nigel Haworth and the team revolves around the ‘farm to fork’ principle –creating sustainability with the rich abundance of herbs, salad and vegetables grown on site, which are the incredible ingredients that stimulate the evolution of the menus.

Spring sees a new seasonal farm to fork menu (see below) with a plant based option also available and the Choice Menu (a la carte) is now running five days a week for the first time, including Saturday night (see the website for full details).

New dishes include:

BEEF TARTARE – Tarragon pesto, grated marrowbone, quail egg, lilliput capers, lime syrup, toast

HAKE LOIN –- Shellfish sauce, buttered spinach, baby leeks, samphire

BRAMLEY APPLE CRUMBLE – Soufflé, Mrs Kirkham’s Lancashire cheese ice cream, apple compote

A fantastic Sunday lunch is also becoming an institution with many regulars returning

FARM TO FORK SEASONAL MENU

Cheese rolls and whey butter

FORAGER’S SOUP

Inglewhite goats cheese potato cakes

DEVON COCK CRAB

Tortellini, wild garlic, garlic shoots, butter sauce

SALISFY

Morrel mushrooms and roasted mushroom juices

BEEF FILLET

Braised ox cheek hash, ginger fermented pak choi

VEGETABLES

Hispi cabbage (PB) £5

French beans (PB) £5

Triple cooked chips (PB) £7

Buttered new potatoes (PB) £7

CHEESE (optional)

A selection of British and Irish cheeses from Courtyard Dairy £15 supplement

YORKSHIRE RHUBARB

Iced custard, rhubarb, granita, jelly, toffee, maltose wafers

Eccles cake and chocolate truffles

Five-course lunch £60

Five-course dinner £75

Wine flight £55

EVENTS

Thursday 30th March

Kirk Haworth

A ‘Dad & Lad’ extravaganza

An incredible five courses of both meat and plant based dishes £100

Friday 7th April

Good Friday (Fishy Friday)

Three-course set menu £45

Sunday 9th & Monday 10th April

Easter Sunday & Monday

Three courses £65

Thursday 20th April

Phil Howard – A true legend of the industry with a history of culinary success and Michelin stars

Five courses £125

Sunday 18th June

Father’s Day

Three courses £65

The Three Fishes Mitton Road, Mitton, Clitheroe BB7 9PQ 01254 826666

reservations@thethreefishes.co.uk thethreefishes.co.uk

thethreefishesmitton

thethreefishesmitton

3fishesmitton

THREE

There’s a lot going on at The Three Fishes – new menus, special events and collaborations with culinary giants, who will be cooking alongside chef Nigel Haworth

BUCKING THE TREND…

You may well be joined by some familiar faces from some of your hospitality venues as Becky has introduced an incentive for those working in hospitality, who want a well-earned meal on their day off. It makes absolute sense and has already been well received.

I can also confirm the kid’s menu is just as well thought through – amusing for parents to read but with no compromise on food quality. Our little grandson recently had a great meal and was of course well looked after by the team.

Our welcome at the Black Bull is always so warm and friendly.

The team are genuinely pleased to be of service and understand the art of professionalism combined with enthusiasm and love for the job. Expansion now means there are vacancies to join this team and become part of something very special (see above).

It’s become a standing joke between owner Becky Govier and the team of some of the ways I’ve described her in some of the articles – this time it’s ‘innovative’– she never stands still and seizes on opportunities to move this great business forward. Last time we met she was genuinely concerned for her business and team, that all the market predictions would mean a difficult first few months of 2023. However, she remains determined to buck any national trends and create countless reasons to visit her beloved Black Bull – here’s some examples. Sunday roasts are usually a sell out so why not re-create this mid-week? Tuesday is the day for those of us who can take advantage of this incredible offer. A huge Yorkshire pudding filled with meat and veggies and a pot of gravy – it’s a ‘yes’ from me!

The Bull has a lot of support from walkers and their furry friends – like everyone these pooches aren’t just tolerated but welcomed with open paws with their own menu and doggy related dishes and treats.

Perhaps the biggest innovation has been the huge uptick in events each week – these range from family celebrations, corporate, wakes and even the occasional small wedding. As you can imagine this is all done with a personal touch and a host of creative ideas to make these special days even more memorable. With Easter just around the corner Becky is planning a host of activities for all the family to enjoy and as I left her, her next meeting was with chef to discuss a full range of new dishes for the spring menu which we will feature in our next issue. Whatever reason you find yourself at the Black Bull, the one thing that’s certain is that you’ll never be disappointed. n

Bucking the national trend, the Black Bull continues to innovate in a bid to continue providing the very best experience for guests, writes Tedd Walmsley

WHATEVER REASON YOU FIND YOURSELF AT THE BLACK BULL, THE ONE THING THAT’S CERTAIN IS THAT YOU’LL NEVER BE DISAPPOINTED

Make Mytton Fold Your New Local

BACK AT ITS BEST

After being closed for 18 months, a Ribble Valley favourite, the Assheton Arms has now re-opened under the tenure of the hugely successful James’ Places, writes Kate Hyde

As an out of towner, who has been fortunate enough to visit the Assheton Arms on a couple of occasions, it’s great to see this beautiful pub in its wonderfully scenic surroundings, once again bursting with life. It has retained all its previous charm, with its cosy nooks whilst still feeling fresh, vibrant and new.

I was surprised to find that on a Monday lunchtime the pub was busy and bustling with infectious energy, all the staff were friendly and attentive and I couldn’t wait to see what was on offer.

The core menu, despite seemingly small had something for everyone and there wasn’t a dish on there that I wasn’t excited to try. From lighter, healthier choices such as salt and pepper cauliflower bites, to a classic pub favourite, the scotch Scotch egg, to the more sumptuous Coquilles St Jacques – the starters definitely had my tastebuds tingling.

The variety continued through to the main courses, with traditional pub dishes of fish and chips (definitely a popular choice with other diners and looked delicious), Cowman’s sausage and mash, to rib-eye steak frites and seafood dishes including pan fried seabass.

The specials menu was equally as impressive and just a little more decadent, including oysters, lobster and what sounds like the most amazing sharing dish of cote de beouf, which

would make for THE ultimate Sunday lunch! After much deliberation over the very tempting dessert options, my dining companion hailed the apple and rhubarb crumble the dish of the day and devoured it with gusto. As a non-dessert person, I opted for a coffee, which was the perfect way to round off a lovely meal, with fantastic service in a warm and friendly environment.

Despite being mid-February, there were some guests making use of the ample outdoor seating area, enjoying the stunning surroundings, kissed by the early spring sunshine. It really is the best place to make the most of the glorious landscape.

Given the picture-perfect location it’s not hard to see why the Assheton Arms is a popular pitstop for walkers. Dropping down from Pendle Hill into the delightful village of Downham, culminating in a pint and a delicious bite to eat are what walking rewards are made of and obviously the views help too! And should you want to make a night of it the 12 beautifully renovated rooms are the perfect way to extend your stay.

Whatever the reason, call in and see for yourself what the Assheton Arms has to offer. You won’t be disappointed. n

Assheton Arms

Top Row, Downham, Clitheroe BB7 4BJ 01200 439699 asshetonarms.co.uk

IT’S GREAT TO SEE THIS BEAUTIFUL PUB IN ITS WONDERFULLY SCENIC SURROUNDINGS, ONCE AGAIN BURSTING WITH LIFE

AND SHOULD YOU WANT TO MAKE A NIGHT OF IT THE 12 BEAUTIFULLY RENOVATED ROOMS ARE THE PERFECT WAY TO EXTEND YOUR STAY

When ordering please let our staff know that these are children’s meals

LANGUAGE OF THE LANDSCAPE

The dramatic scenery of the Forest of Bowland is captured in a series of stunning images by photographer Simon Sharp, who uses traditional darkroom methods that make his work totally unique

Film maker and award-winning documentary photographer Simon Sharp is staging an exhibition in the Ribble Valley featuring his monochrome images that reflect the wild landscapes of the Forest of Bowland.

He has travelled the world documenting social injustice through his photography as well as capturing awe-inspiring imagery that reflects the cultures and communities in faraway countries.

Living and working internationally since

2002 across Asia, Africa, Australia and North America, Simon has accumulated vast realworld experience of working conditions and practices, particularly in developing nations.

Closer to home, his recent body of work focusing on the Forest of Bowland, features haunting images of the rugged landscape –scenes that have often taken hours to evolve.

Simon takes a mindful approach to his work concentrating on subjects that are thought-provoking and meaningful – he then uses traditional darkroom techniques to develop and tone the images.

“The landscape of Bowland is very fractured and I think you have to have a deep understanding of it to capture it on camera. On the surface it looks barren and the weather is simply northern, but there’s

an originality to it. It’s very raw,” he explains.

“I really discovered photography through travel. I was photographing all these new things and worked on documentary projects while I was in India and Nepal.”

Returning to his Lancashire roots, Simon has continued his work as a professional photographer using a Sinar Norma camera manufactured in the 1950s and Kodak Tri-X –a legendary film introduced in 1940 and used by world renowned photographers.

The traditional nature of the camera and film means it takes time and skill to set up a shot, during which the light or the subject may have changed or even disappeared: “I have to be very disciplined as the film is expensive, so it really concentrates the mind. Unlike a digital camera, I can’t just delete a shot, I can’t check the image to see if I am happy with it, it’s coming home with me so I have to be very considered.

“I have to learn to trust what I’m doing and I’ve also had to accept failure – but I’ve learnt from that. These are the life lessons in film – you have to respect it. We should all respect the materials we work with and

if you don’t respect film, if you lapse for less than a second, then you’re done. There is no ‘command Z’.”

“If you are doing something worthwhile you have to take time, be mindful and considerate. Whatever comes out of the darkroom is never forced. The images develop and they are toned in a gentle, nuanced way. They are a bit like an etching and have a painterly quality to them making them classic, timeless and unique.

“As the print is made by an individual it is, in itself, unique. It’s all handcrafted in Lancashire and what you see is my history in an image, not a computer algorithm or fancy filter. There’s no Photoshop to correct the mistakes, just light, time and introspection and it’s the honesty within that process that I hope will resonate with others.”

While the digital age may have some merits, for Simon, who admits to being somewhat of a maverick, a photograph needs to be a tangible reminder of the changing landscape capturing a moment in time that is spontaneous: “You have to let things happen organically. I don’t plan to catch a sunset at a certain time or place – everything is by chance, it’s an encounter between me and the land, a one-off moment. I’m working towards authenticity which, I believe, is never planned.

On digital photography, Simon adds: “We live in a disposable society. People take thousands of photographs and either instantly delete them or add filters to make them beautiful which belies the creative process, it negates time and the reflection of that reality.

“I put my heart and soul into being creative as I want my photography to resonate with people. We are all individuals and we have different views but I think the majority of people appreciate reality and that’s not always pretty, life and ways of seeing, are much more than that.

“The Forest of Bowland is like a rough diamond and you have to understand that to appreciate its beauty. You can keep going back to it and its keeps revealing itself. I don’t know what images I’m going to get when I go there. This isn’t ‘capturing’ or ‘taking’ it’s discovering and learning a sense of place and that doesn’t always mean you have to do something. Just looking is fine.

“You see farmers high on the fells in the depths of winter, isolated trees, twisted and bent, permanently cowering from the prevailing wind. The Forest of Bowland is always speaking to you and if you listen, you begin to understand its language. Then you can start to photograph.” n

Simon Sharp’s Forest of Bowland exhibition at Longitude Gallery in Clitheroe runs until the end of April. He is also represented by Padiham Picture House, Padiham and Saul Hay Gallery in Manchester where his work is available.

simonsharpphoto.com

WHATEVER COMES OUT OF THE DARKROOM IS NEVER FORCED. THE IMAGES DEVELOP AND THEY ARE TONED IN A GENTLE, NUANCED WAY

GOOD READ

Lauren Molyneux curls up with a good book to review a classic best seller

THE GUERNSEY LITERARY AND POTATO PEEL PIE SOCIETY

Mary Ann Shaffer & Annie Burrows

The war is over and Juliet Ashton, an author, is trying to overcome her writer’s block when she receives a letter from a book-loving stranger from halfway across the Channel.

Dawsey Adams unwittingly provides the solution as one of the eccentric characters forming the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. Dawsey has some stories to share about the war and before long, Juliet has become his favoured pen-pal and that of his fellow book-loving friends.

In a series of letters, each describing Guernsey in its picturesque beauty, Juliet learns about life on the island and the dark years spent under the shadow of German occupation, developing an affinity with the island and the unlikely bunch of society members – making it her mission to ensure their stories are told.

Key to the narrative and its success overall is the format and structure of the text itself. Functioning as an epistolary novel, the text drip-feeds us information in the form of letters from a hotch-potch array of voices and sources. As readers, it then becomes our job to piece events together and uncover the story alongside our protagonist. Not only does this structure secure our alignment with Juliet, as we stand with her at every step as she attempts to create a fuller picture from the snippets she receives in the letters, but it also succeeds in generating intrigue and ensuring the voices and characters we hear from are fully fleshed out.

The epistolary format plays a key role not just in the development of the narrative, but also in the themes it establishes. By its end, the novel provides us with an idea of what life was like during the war, offering us a little piece of history and perspective whilst at the same time exploring, expressing and encouraging an appreciation of the written word. Woven within the letters themselves and the stories we learn, is an ongoing love of language and literature – the characters use storytelling as a way of surviving the war both during the occupation and post-victory, with their accidental book club providing solace during the worst of times. The written word then provides comfort after the war is over, and the letters sent to Juliet serve to offer insight into the individual struggles brought about by the war whilst also providing characters with a means of coming to terms with their shared trauma and finally facing their past.

Whilst the text has been adapted into a film, for me its magic comes in the celebration of writing and storytelling. Touching upon everything from the philosophical text to the political cartoon, the novel sheds light on the impact of the written word and the power stories have, especially when times are tough. n

SPRING SEASON

Spring is so much more than a transitional time between frigid temperatures and balmy beach days. It’s a season of beautiful blooming flowers and new beginnings.

Actor Jim Carrey put it poetically: “Flowers don’t worry about how they’re going to bloom. They just open up and turn toward the light and that makes them beautiful.”

Our artists have embraced Carrey’s thoughts and the gallery is adorned with the wonderful, vibrant palette of the new spring season. New originals from Tuscany’s Bruno Tinucci and closer to home from Leanne Christie and Mary Shaw have recently arrived in Longridge. These artworks would make wonderful additions to any home, bringing the hope of the new season and the excitement of warmer days and lighter nights.

Call into the gallery to see the paintings close up and view the fabulous textures and artists’ marks that make these works so special.

Original Paintings . Signed Limited Editions . Needleworks . Restoration . Art Framing . Shirt Framing . Canvas Stretching

78 Berry Lane, Longridge, Preston, PR3 3WH 01772 782006 www.longridgegallery.co.uk info@longridgegallery.co.uk

@longridgegall /Longridge-Gallery @longridgegallery

Mary Shaw original: “Kingfisher’s Garden” £545

Bruno Tinucci original: “Pittoresca Villa” £1,320

Leanne Christie original: “Pretty Little Petals” £1,395

We are delighted to announce an action packed Wildlife Exhibition throughout the month of April!

We are excited to have a different artist at the gallery each Saturday during April (with the exception of Saturday 8th which is Easter weekend).

All artists are working exceptionally hard creating some wonderful new works for the event. We’ve already seen a few in the making and I know they’ll blow you away.

will be at the gallery on Saturday 1st April 11:00am – 4:00pm

Michael is looking forward to meeting clients and chatting about his career to date. Lancashire based wildlife artist Michael needs no introduction.

His successful career spans 27 years after becoming a professional artist back in 1996. Since then Michael has become one of the UK’s leading wildlife artists continuously creating high calibre works. In addition, Michael plays an active role with the RSPB in the Forest of Bowland, monitoring and preserving birds of prey and endangered species in North Lancashire.

Saturday 1st April Michael Demain

Saturday 15th April Alex Fleming

Saturday 22nd April Clare Shaughnessy

Saturday 29th April Jean Pritchard

Michael Demain

Clare Shaughnessy

will be at the gallery on Saturday 22nd April 11:00am – 4:00pm

Clare will be demonstrating her drawing techniques live in the gallery.

Clare Shaughnessy is a professional wildlife artist from the Wirral. Specialising in birds and animal subjects, Clare’s status in the top tier of wildlife art has long been established.

Her works have been exhibited nationally and she has been nominated three times for Wildlife Artist of the Year. Clare likes to capture animals at times of solitude, when the animals are totally at ease and there’s a gentleness or a vulnerability about them.

Alex Fleming

will be at the gallery on Saturday 15th April 11:00am – 4:00pm

Alex is looking forward to meeting clients and discussing his passion for art and wildlife.

Alex had a fabulous 2022! His career as a professional artist is going from strength to strength having become a signature member of the prestigious US based Society of Animal

Artists - a real honour and personal achievement for Alex in recognition of his exceptional artworks. With four of his works reaching the finals of the David Shepherd Wildlife Artist of the Year competition 2022, this is a truly outstanding accomplishment. We are excited to see what 2023 holds for Alex!

Jean Pritchard

will be at the gallery on Saturday 29th April 11:00am – 4:00pm

Jean will be painting live in the gallery and meeting clients.

Jean is a professional wildlife artist based in Cumbria. Her passion for wildlife is more than evident and her realistic paintings reflect a deep understanding of her chosen subject and her

appreciation for the natural world.

Jean has led a successful career to date, winning a breadth of awards and has exhibited widely across the UK, achieving finalist on a number of occasions at the David Shepherd Wildlife Artist of the Year.

COUNTRY LIVING

A spectacular country residence in one of the Ribble Valley’s most sought-after villages, has come onto the market with respected estate agents Hilton & Horsfall

Atruly outstanding detached residence, The Long House in Hurst Green has been completely refurbished and extended by the current owners. Offering a large family living space, the property has been transformed to offer luxury accommodation designed for the 21st century home buyer.

Having breath-taking views over Whalley Nab, Pendle Hill and Longridge Fell and within Bowland’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) this rural home is located between Clitheroe and Longridge, which both offer local amenities, supermarkets, local shops, bars and eateries.

The renowned Stonyhurst College is close by with Clitheroe Grammar School and Longridge High School both only a short bus ride away.

The location and specification of this property is truly hard to beat!

Noteworthy features within this stunning family home include a light and airy welcoming reception hallway with a beautiful oak staircase leading to the first-floor landing, a fully tiled ground floor cloakroom, a ground floor double bedroom with ensuite shower room, a home cinema housing a fitted projector, large screen and colour-changing mood lights,

a large open room offering a snug and sitting room and a large dining room with a beautiful log burner set within a feature fireplace. There is also a truly spectacular living room offering panoramic views, a bespoke dining kitchen with top-end integrated Neff appliances and a fitted utility room.

NOTEWORTHY FEATURES WITHIN THIS STUNNING FAMILY HOME INCLUDE A HOME CINEMA HOUSING A FITTED PROJECTOR, LARGE SCREEN AND COLOUR-CHANGING MOOD LIGHTS

To the first floor you will find ample space for a contemporary office area, three double bedrooms with the master having a modern ensuite shower room and dressing room and you will also find a three-piece house shower room.

Externally this remarkable property boasts a wrap-around laid to lawn garden with mature trees, a decked seating area perfect for soaking up the sun and a paved patio area.

There is also a gated driveway providing off-road parking for several cars and the property also has planning permission for a detached double garage. Early viewings are advised to avoid disappointment! n

The property is freehold and in Council Tax Band B

Offers over £1,000,000

Hilton & Horsfall

75 Gisburn Road, Barrowford BB9 6DX

Burnley & Pendle 01282 560024

20 Wellgate, Clitheroe BB7 2DP

Ribble Valley 01200 435667

info@hilton-horsfall.co.uk

hilton-horsfall.co.uk

STONES YOUNG BRING ‘HOME’ TOP AWARD!

Stones Young has been recognised by the British Property Awards as one of the leading estate agents in the region!

Following on from the award-winning exploits of their colleagues at the HQ in Blackburn, the Clitheroe office has now been awarded the prestigious Gold Award.

Since opening the office on Moor Lane in 2020, Stones Young have gained real traction in the Ribble Valley and this latest award firmly cements their status as the top agent for customer service in the area.

Created by a dedicated team of previous estate agency owners, the British Property Awards judge agents who meet a strict set of criteria, through ‘mystery shoppers’, over a number of months to ensure continuity and stability and only award those who meet the high standard.

Stones Young director Jo-Anne Blow was thrilled with the recognition: “It is a huge honour and I am extremely proud of the team. This award is a testament to everyone’s hard work, as we strive to provide customer excellence in each area of the business.”

Eden Gardens, Old Langho, BB6 8HW

OFFERS OVER £1,050,000

Sought After Brockhall Village Location

• Spacious family home set over three floors

• Seven double bedrooms

• Eight bathrooms

• Double garage & extensive driveway

Red Lodge, Old Hall Lane, Pleasington, BB2 6RJ £795,000.

Five Bedroom Detached Period Property

• Four reception rooms

• Three bathrooms

• Double garage plus workshop

• Breath-taking views

Clitheroe Road, Mitton, BB7 9PH

OIRO £725,000

Impressive Deceptive Barn Conversion

• Two substantial cottages & agricultural barns

• Picturesque location close to Clitheroe & Whalley

• Extensive plot with gardens & views

• Plots also available separately

Saccary Lane, Mellor, BB1 9DW £500,000

Character Filled Detached Property

• Two Spacious Reception Rooms & Study

• Four Double Bedrooms

• En-suite to Master Bedroom

• Stunning Countryside Views

Asking Price £499,950

Set within a small hamlet of properties, this detached, converted farmhouse is within walking distance of Trawden village.

Including a one-acre paddock, garage and separate sunny garden, it now has Planning Permission granted for a two-storey extension, to meet the needs of any growing family.

OIRO £220,000

A fantastic opportunity to purchase a Grade II* listed barn with great potential to gain planning consent on the outskirts of the popular village of Barton.

Suitable for developers or for those looking to take on a project for themselves, the barn offers great potential to create a unique dwelling in such a beautiful, rural location. Set in approximately 0.19 acres.

Barton, Preston

Southfield, Burnley

ORIO £850,000

This superb, detached farmhouse is conveniently located within the Ribble Valley catchment area and with fantastic access to transport and road networks.

With four bedrooms and with excellent living accommodation to include a fabulous open plan kitchen-diner, this lifestyle property includes extensive gardens and a 1.5 acre paddock with stable for one horse.

Offers Over £749,995

A prominent and handsome house positioned along Calder House Lane and available with no chain, this super house offers generous accommodation and has plenty of scope for the purchaser to put their own tastes and specifications on it.

Packed with character features, this seven-bedroomed property really must be viewed to fully appreciate the size and potential.

Wilpshire, Blackburn

Bowgreave, Preston

Located in a quiet yet convenient position on the outskirts of Langho village, Bankfield is a superb family home. Set within private gardens and grounds of approximately 1.6 acres with views across the valley, the house has been extensively renovated throughout and demonstrates a fine blend between traditional features and contemporary finishes. At ground floor the house is well planned for modern living with three large reception rooms, dining kitchen, WC / shower room and large utility / scullery. To the first and second floors there are six generous bedrooms and two beautifully finished bathrooms. Extensive landscaped gardens surround the house with mature trees and hedging providing privacy. There is a substantial terrace to the rear with usable lawn area as well as a greenhouse and vegetable garden. The house has two driveways with ample parking and a detached four car garage. Adjoining the garden there is land extending to approximately 1.23 acres available by separate negotiation. EPC - D

Situated in a quiet yet accessible location in the village of Knowle Green, Manor Cottage is a superb character cottage tucked away in a courtyard setting. This beautiful property has flexible accommodation which will appeal to many. The house has four bedrooms, two with ensuite shower rooms and a separate house bathroom. There are two reception rooms, a spacious dining kitchen, fully fitted study and entrance hall. Outside there is a superb private and well stocked walled garden with beautiful stone patio. In addition, there is a substantial double garage with storage area above and there are two parking spaces outside. The perfect downsizer property with lock up and leave potential. Viewing is strongly advised. EPC – E

BANKFIELD, 43 WHINNEY LANE, LANGHO, BLACKBURN, BB6 8DQ £1,150,000

MANOR COTTAGE, GLEN AVENUE, KNOWLE GREEN, PRESTON, PR3 2ZQ £575,000

SIDDOWS HALL, HENTHORN ROAD, CLITHEROE, BB7 3BY £1,200,000

Located in a quiet yet convenient position on the outskirts of Clitheroe, Siddows Hall is a superb family home. Set within private gardens and grounds with outstanding views across the valley to Pendle Hill, the house has been recently renovated, extended and improved to provide a luxurious six bedroom and three bathroom contemporary accommodation. A viewing of this property will not disappoint. At ground floor the house is well planned for modern living with a large open plan living / dining / kitchen in the centre of the house, framed by a spectacular view across the valley through bi-fold doors. Extensive landscaped gardens surround the house with a substantial terrace to the rear to take in the views, as well as a contemporary garden room with deck at the end of the garden. There is a private driveway with ample parking, a detached double garage and separate gardener’s store. Properties finished to this calibre rarely come to the market and viewing is strongly advised. EPC – E

Located in a quiet rural setting yet close to amenities, Keepers Cottage is a beautiful family home with flexible accommodation which will appeal to many. Finished to an extremely high standard, this property has been fastidiously maintained, upgraded and improved by the current owners to a level rarely seen. This is a sizeable property extending to just over 6,400 sq ft and is designed for modern living. At ground floor there is a beautifully appointed Simpsons kitchen / dining area, utility room, two large reception rooms and study. There is also a ground floor bedroom with a Jack-and-Jill shower room, shared with another reception room, currently used as a gym but offering the buyer flexibility with potential for a further sitting room, bedroom or in-law apartment. To the first floor there are four bedrooms and four bathrooms. The master suite has a fitted Simpsons dressing room and a beautiful contemporary bathroom. Externally the property is surrounded by extensive mature gardens and grounds, there is a triple garage, ample parking and superb views. Proof of funding required prior to viewing. EPC - E

KEEPERS COTTAGE FARM, RIBCHESTER ROAD, CLAYTON-LE-DALE, BB1 9EY £1,600,000

Old Nab Road, Langho OFFERS OVER £975,000

A PRESTIGIOUS DETACHED BARN CONVERSION SET WITHIN APPROX 8 1/2 ACRES OF STUNNING SCENERY

Springs Barn is the perfect home for an equestrian loving family looking for stunning internal accommodation plus ample outdoor space including stabling for 7 horses. The property is nestled in a quiet hamlet or only a few other similar properties in a peaceful location on the outskirts of York Village, yet still conveniently located for accessing the neighbouring towns of Clitheroe and Whalley. The property offers versatile interior accommodation with a range of living spaces and four/five bedrooms.

Wheatley Lane Road, Barrowford| PRICES FROM: £750,000

Wyre Close, Clitheroe

Linden Drive, Clitheroe

Mosses Farm Road, Longridge OIRO £375,000 ASKING PRICE £400,000 ASKING PRICE £450,000

REDEVELOP, REDESIGN OR REPURPOSE:

Could your site do more for you?

with our heritage schemes, where a new-build would not be appropriate. However, if the character of the existing property has been lost, or if there is no architectural value in retaining the property, the more cost-effective solution is sometimes to replace the dwelling with a high-quality new-build.

Do you own a plot with plenty of potential, but the house just lets it down? You may have only bought the house for its garden, land, views or location – and you are ready to investigate the development possibilities.

Did you know that you can replace an existing dwelling with a larger property which meets your specific needs irrespective of it being located within the settlement boundary, open countryside, greenbelt, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or a Conservation Area?

The new project also doesn’t need to look like the current house. It could be more contemporary, larger and more sustainable. However, the new design should respond to the site, the context, characteristics and materials to create a site-specific design.

Sometimes the solution is to improve the existing property by incorporating extensions, or out-buildings, which is particularly the case

On our larger schemes, many of our clients choose to proceed with a new-build due to self-builds being VAT exempt. Therefore the VAT which would have been chargeable on an extension scheme can be re-allocated to the areas you actually want to spend your budget!

It is usually the case that there is more flexibility in terms of design and scale when replacing rather than extending. For example, there are certain limitations for house extensions which may not work for your accommodation requirements, or for the specific property. This is when outside-the-box

thinking can rework an existing site, maximising the accommodation to meet the client’s needs, whilst still complying with planning policy.

At ZMA we have worked on replacement dwellings in greenbelt, open countryside and within the settlement boundaries across Lancashire. For example, we have replaced a three-bedroom bungalow, with a fivebedroom super home in the greenbelt and replaced a three-bedroom end terrace farmhouse with a 9,000sqft five-bedroom detached super home in the open countryside. There are also opportunities for redevelopment on sites containing other types of existing structures, however this is dependent on the specific local authority, location and current use.

If you have a property or a site containing existing structures and you are ready to investigate your development options, contact us with the site address and what you want to achieve and we will take it from there. n

Zara

Moon Architects

We transform sites, buildings, and lives. Unit 37, Mitton Road Business Park Mitton Road, Whalley BB7 9YE 01200 403840 enquiries@zaramoonarchitects.co.uk zaramoonarchitects.co.uk

The team at ZMA explain why it is sometimes more beneficial to replace an existing building rather than extend

AT ZMA WE HAVE WORKED ON REPLACEMENT DWELLINGS IN GREENBELT, OPEN COUNTRYSIDE AND WITHIN THE SETTLEMENT BOUNDARIES ACROSS LANCASHIRE

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