Live Ribble Valley Issue 141 May/June 2023

MEN’S ISSUE BOYS’ TOYS

OUT IN THE WILD

ARTIST MICHAEL DEMAIN

ALL IN A DAY’S WORK

FORENSIC VET SEAN TAYLOR

WALK IT OUT

ESCAPE TO THE HILLS

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12 WORKING FOR THE GREATER GOOD Sean Taylor, one of the few forensic vets in the UK, is on a mission to make the world a better place. Catherine Robinson finds out why.

104 WE CAN WALK IT OUT

Mark Sutcliffe explores why we need regular outdoor exercise – and why 20 minutes on the treadmill just won’t cut it.

126 EPIC ADVENTURE

Endurance athlete Jordan Wyn-Jones is gearing up for an epic challenge. He is currently training for a 1700k run, walk and cycle, which he hopes will be a record-breaker!

128 FARMING WITH A DIFFERENCE

We meet Ribble Valley farmer Heber Hargreaves and his unusual herd of Boer goats.

150 IN THE WILD

Professional artist Michael Demain has travelled the globe to observe wildlife, but his favourite place is the Forest of Bowland.

LIVE MAGAZINES

Chairman: Simon Smith

Managing Director: Tedd Walmsley

Company Secretary: Elizabeth Walmsley

Editor: Jan Woolley

Graphic Designers: Nick Dittrich and Rob Walmsley

Operations Manager: Kate Hyde

Production Manager: James Britton

Sales Account Manager: Jane Hughes 07875 696 928

Photography: Peter Austin, Roger Moore and Kirsten Platt

Editorial contributors: Paul Agnew, Gail Bailey, Kate Bowyer, Kate Hyde, Meena McDonald, Lauren Molyneux, Catherine Robinson, Mark Sutcliffe, Sarah Ulyatt, Jenni Walmsley, Robert Walmsley, Liz Walmsley, Tedd Walmsley and Laura Wells

RIBBLE VALLEY OFFICE

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

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Editor

Welcome to the Men’s Issue of Live Ribble Valley, featuring everything from men’s health, wellbeing and walking groups to gadgets, gizmos and the all-new Ineos Grenadier, featured on the front cover. We meet some inspirational people in this issue, including Sean Taylor, who is one of the very few forensic vets in the UK. He is on a mission to make the world a better place and as part of his work, is carrying out PhD research into non-accidental injury to domestic animals. He has appeared on Channel 5’s the Dog Rescuers and is passionate about raising animal welfare awareness.

Staying with the animal theme, Michael Demain is an artist, who has travelled the world searching for wildlife to paint in their natural habitat. His favourite place however is the Forest of Bowland, where he also helps monitor endangered species. His paintings are in private collections across the UK, Alaska, New Zealand and New York.

Moving on to men’s health and wellbeing, therapeutic coach Lynn Scholes interestingly writes about the changing role of men in society and how it impacts each individual, while fell-walker Mark Sutcliffe is a keen advocate of walking for mental health, advising that a relatively short walk of four or five miles will calm the mind and lift the spirit. And, with the sun shining and summer on its way, there’s no excuse not to venture into the great outdoors.

Enjoy!

Jan Woolley Editor

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

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

It was in his new role at Greenhalgh and Heal’s that Sean’s interest in veterinary forensics was first piqued. The practice had a good relationship with the local RSPCA inspector and Sean found himself treating RSPCA cases, writing associated reports and providing witness statements for related court appearances. This inspired him to

undertake further study. He acquired a Certificate in Veterinary Forensics & Law and later became the first vet in the UK to achieve a Masters Degree in Veterinary Forensic Science from the University of Florida.

WORKING FOR THE GREATER GOOD

Catherine Robinson meets Ribble Valley-based Sean Taylor, one of the few vets in the UK with specialist qualifications in Veterinary Forensic Science. He is on a mission to make the world a better place

Sean Taylor, BVSc MSc (Vet Forensics) GPCert (F&L) MRCVS MAE, joins me in the kitchen of the Bolton-byBowland home he shares with his wife Melissa, their family and a quantity of animals that Noah would be proud of. Within seconds there’s a pack of friendly dogs at my feet, a brew in my hand and a warm welcome. I soon get used to the interruptions from the parrot, commenting from over my left shoulder.

“Becoming a vet is just something that I always wanted to do,” Sean says, with a smile. “I’d volunteered at Greenhalgh and Heal’s in Burnley from the age of eight and they always told me there would be a job for me if I qualified.”

Young Sean had a talent for the sciences and despite the fierce competition for places at veterinary school and the doubts of his teachers, who claimed: “Lads from Burnley don’t get to be vets,” he obtained a place at the University of Liverpool School of Veterinary Science. When he qualified in 1994, Greenhalgh and Heal were as good as their word and Sean returned to work in their mixed practice.

He is now an Honorary Lecturer in Veterinary Forensics at the University of Liverpool, where he is also researching a PhD in non-accidental injury to domestic animals. He explains his research as building on the diagnostic indicators for child abuse undertaken in the 1960s.

Sean is also a practising member of the Academy of Experts and regularly attends court where he describes his role as assisting the layman to understand what he has seen: “The animal’s body is a mini crime-scene and context is everything.”

As one of only a handful of vets in the UK with specific qualifications in Veterinary Forensic Science, Sean has made multiple appearances on Channel 5’s The Dog Rescuers and on ITV’s Judge Rinder. Recognising the reach of television, Sean persuaded the producers to pitch a series, which would showcase his forensic work: “I saw it as a sort of CSI programme that would investigate real life cases,” Sean says. A half hour episode of ‘Catching the Animal Killers’ was filmed and presented to the commissioning editors of a mainstream channel, who had expressed

AS ONE OF ONLY A HANDFUL OF FORENSIC VETS IN THE UK, SEAN HAS MADE MULTIPLE APPEARANCES ON TV

THE ANIMAL’S BODY IS A MINI CRIME-SCENE AND CONTEXT IS EVERYTHING

an interest: “But they wanted me to water it down before they’d take it,” Sean shrugs. “I wasn’t prepared to do that. I’m not interested in fame for fame’s sake, or in becoming a TV vet. This wasn’t about me, it was about getting the animal welfare message out to as wide an audience as I could. It was about education.”

Sean is philosophical about his own emotional resilience: “It makes no difference to the outcome of a case, whether I let it affect me or not. My aim is to improve the collective consciousness. Have you ever asked yourself why, when you’ve chosen to open a window

and let a fly out rather than to swat it, you feel better? It’s because we are all connected and your action has raised the level of the collective consciousness.”

Melissa, a qualified veterinary nurse and animal behaviourist, shares this philosophy. From their home, she operates the Ark Education Barn, an educational facility providing animal welfare courses including those for children with special educational needs and disabilities and those in need of Animal Assisted Therapy.

Sean links their missions: “In so many of

the court cases I attend, mental health issues or special needs have played a part and we’re trying to address that. Parents can leave their children at the Ark Education Barn if they want to, but many of them choose to stay. They enjoy being around the animals and it means that we’re influencing the whole family.”

He tells of a child with ADHD who had been chasing chickens around the barn. With Melissa’s help, he eventually sat quietly for an unusual length of time, feeding the chickens from his hand. “People need to be educated on how to treat animals, but they also need to be more understanding of life’s challenges - of what some people are facing.”

Meanwhile, throughout all his media work, his additional study, his court cases and his unofficial handyman role at the Ark Education Barn, Sean has remained a practising vet. He works at both Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary and at a Bury surgery where he performs operations: “It helps me keep it real,” he smiles.

The Taylor’s words underpin their actions. Their philosophies interlock with their behaviours, revealing an integrity that is both rare and inspiring: “Education is the key,” concludes Sean. n

arkedbarn.com

PEOPLE NEED TO BE EDUCATED ON HOW TO TREAT ANIMALS. EDUCATION IS THE KEY

A light, airy, open-plan kitchen

When a family from Great Harwood embarked on a large-scale renovation where three rooms were knocked in to one, they wanted a high-end kitchen with quality appliances as part of the new open-plan living space.

They initially thought Kitchen Design Centre would be out of their budget but after hearing some horror stories about experiences others had had with well-known high street kitchen retailers, they approached the Blackburn showroom and were delighted that they could work to their budget.

Initially working from plans, designer Lou Roberts presented multiple design ideas, incorporating everything on the customer’s wish list: an island, Quooker tap and a low clutter look with clean lines and multiple storage.

The brief was to make the kitchen look fresh and incorporate light, bright colours in the form of pastels and light grey units. Lou opted for new colours in the form of Bali GL Summer Oak silver grey effect, mixed with laser Brilliant GL cashmere tall and wall units.

For the worktops, they chose Quartz Luminar with double bevel edge, that has gold glitter specs, which they’d seen in Kitchen Design Centre’s Blackburn showroom. They loved visiting the showroom and were impressed with the wide range of samples available to choose from.

The kitchen has become the heart of their new room, it looks fantastic and fresh in pastel colours. The family are delighted with the space and spend all their time in it. They can’t praise Kitchen Design Centre enough from Lou to the fitters, they found everyone to be professional and helpful.

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

Designer Lou Roberts says, “This was a great project to work on as I essentially had a blank canvas to work with. The large amount of glass in the room meant it was light and bright, I designed the kitchen in colours to make the most of this. As storage was important, I didn’t include a breakfast bar which enabled more storage under the island. The result is a sleek, contemporary kitchen.”

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BOYS' TOYS

These quality gadgets and gizmos will give hours of entertainment and activity

SEGWAY NINEBOT MAXG30EII

KICKSCOOTER £799

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NORTON BIKE BAR £899 Loom Loft, Barrow Brook Business Village, Holly Road, Barrow, Clitheroe, BB7 9WF 01200 404404 loomloft.co.uk

SECATEUR MULTI TOOL £24.95 annabeljames.co.uk

BEOSOUND LEVEL

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discover... true individuality

KITCHENS | BEDROOMS | BATHROOMS | PANTRIES | BOOT ROOMS | DRESSING ROOMS | STUDIES | SMART HOME TECHNOLOGY | FREESTANDING FURNITURE | INTERIOR MOULDINGS

CHOICES FOR THE FUTURE

Sustainable interiors are not another home design trend, but a different mindset – pivoting our lifestyles in such a positive way.

As we step towards a more environmentally friendly future, our decisions around furniture buying are an important factor to consider. In a world where conscious living will be the norm, it’s vital for brands to offer more consciously-made products for their customers.

Eco Edit furniture is made from more sustainable, yet still high-quality materials that will last. Having eco-furniture in your home is hugely beneficial in the long run. Good quality furniture offers a longer lifespan, which benefits the environment by not adding to landfill.

Eco-brand Cult is committed to offering more sustainably conscious furniture, accessible to everyone.

It starts with fabrics and textiles. A number of Cult’s best-selling styles are now available in recycled velvet such as the Sylvia, Harriet and Nova ranges. Made from 100 per cent recycled PET yarns of the highest quality, you can shop for furniture with the environment in mind.

The science bit – a good number of woods are long lasting and eco-friendly including mango wood, which is quicker to grow than

many other woods. Solid woods like oak, beech and ash are highly durable meaning they’re going to last a long time in your home. Other similar materials such as rattan, cane and cord have an extremely sustainable process. Rattan is dried out in the sun and 100 per cent biodegradable. The Lambert Accent chair features both sustainable rattan and a plush recycled velvet seat. Sustainablyconscious furniture is here to stay. n

It’s the choices we make now that will go towards a better earth for years to come

...for

Named after historic landscape gardener Capability Brown, Annie Sloan’s new shade Capability Green is a celebration of the classic country garden

Launching this summer at the world’s greatest flower show, Annie Sloan has joined forces with her friends at the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) to develop a new Chalk Paint™ colour, Capability Green. A celebration of the great English outdoors, Capability Green references the lush gardens of landscape gardener Lancelot Capability Brown.

“I’ve taken inspiration from the 18th century, when English country style and English country homes came into their own. It was the Age of Enlightenment – estate owners no longer saw their land as fit for farming only, so they did two things – they had landscape artists like Gainsborough and Constable paint them and had landscape gardeners like Capability Brown create wonderful gardens for them,” explains Annie.

CELEBRATING COUNTRY GARDENS

A warm, natural shade inspired by the beauty of the English landscape, Capability Green will bring the relaxing qualities of the outdoors, indoors.

“Gentle and soothing to the eye, Capability Green works well with most other colours in the palette, but particularly well as a neutral base alongside blues, pinks and yellows,” says Annie.

Launching alongside Capability Green are two limited edition Starter Kits, including two 120ml tins and a flat brush. “Enough for a project such as a chair or small side table. Let your creativity flow!” says Annie. n

I’VE TAKEN INSPIRATION FROM THE 18TH CENTURY, WHEN ENGLISH COUNTRY STYLE AND ENGLISH COUNTRY HOMES CAME INTO THEIR OWN

FAMILY VALUES

Over many years company chairman Mike Davies and his family have had a long association with Croft, a leading manufacturer and suppliers of windows, doors, orangeries and garden rooms.

“It was my late mother-in-law, who started the tradition,” recalls Mike. “Many years ago, she needed to replace the windows in her bungalow and Croft made such a good job of it she went on to have a conservatory built at

the back and she was thrilled with it!”

John Croft and his team made a lasting impression on Mike. With their skilled workmanship and their ability to come up with great ideas, Mike turned to Croft when

Services to Business and to Disadvantaged Children. He is the founder and chairman of the Principle Trust Children’s Charity, which to date has given 4,600 children holidays in Blackpool and the Lake District, since the charity was founded by Mike back in 2011.

Mike, who was also the founder and former CEO of Principle Healthcare, is now semi-retired: “The businessman in me always gets two quotes when we are having any work carried out and Croft have

he and his wife Brenda moved to a new home in the lovely village of Grimsargh, where they decided to have an orangery built: “The team at Croft really inspired me with confidence –they listen to your ideas then add to them, which I like.

“Croft also took care of all the legals – the planning permission and building regulations for the orangery, which was great,” adds Mike, who was awarded the MBE in 2018 for

A company founded back in 1874, continues to impress with its skilled team of craftsman and traditional customer service

THE TEAM AT CROFT REALLY INSPIRED ME WITH CONFIDENCE – THEY LISTEN TO YOUR IDEAS THEN ADD TO THEM

always been really competitive.”

When the orangery at the Grimsargh house was complete, Mike and his wife were thrilled: “We virtually lived in it!”

So, it came as no surprise, when one of Mike’s two sons turned to Croft when he needed to replace a conservatory at his home in Ilkley: “Even though the team were having to travel 35 to 40 miles each day, it was worth it for the quality workmanship,” says Mike, who with Brenda, decided to make their own move over the Lancashire Yorkshire border.

grounds with a more contemporary pod: “John suggested we visit Holden Clough in the Ribble Valley, where there is a Croft pod in situ. We visited and were really impressed –so much so we are having one constructed by Croft, starting at the end of this month.”

recommend Croft. The culture of the business, which has been passed down the generations, is very much in keeping with our ethos. It’s a traditional firm with traditional values – providing quality products, skilled craftsmanship and fantastic customer service!”

Needing replacement windows in their new Ilkley house, he asked John Croft to advise on the work: “He came up with lots of suggestions including going with grey UPVC on the outside and white on the inside, which we would never have thought of. We went ahead and replaced around 20 windows, which could have been pretty disruptive and messy, but the workmen were exceptional. Nothing was too much trouble.”

Eighteen months ago, another move was on the cards: “We’ve just moved again and this is definitely our final move!” adds Mike, who wanted to replace a garden room in the

The new rectangular garden room with its span of glass bi-fold doors, will be located in a south-facing position: “I suspect it’s going to become a favourite place in the summer, when we can sit out and enjoy an evening tipple in the sunshine – it’s going to be very pleasant,” adds Mike, who spends much of his spare time working for his charity. Speaking about the family’s experience with Croft, Mike adds: “I wouldn’t hesitate to

Croft’s current owner, John Croft, is a fifth-generation descendant of Thomas Croft, who founded the business in 1874. Reflecting on the work carried out for the Davies family, he says: “At Croft we pride ourselves on our knowledge, expertise and craftsmanship, which has been honed over many years. Much of our business comes from recommendations and the projects for the whole Davies family certainly did! It is a pleasure to work with them.” n

Showroom: Croft Complete Homes Ltd

6 Pittman Court

Pittman Way, Preston PR2 9ZG 01772 703777

sales@croftconservatories.co.uk

croftconservatories.co.uk

croftgardenbuildings.co.uk

THE WORKMEN WERE EXCEPTIONAL. NOTHING WAS TOO MUCH TROUBLE

Baku

Bauformat Kitchens Collection

Part of the kitchen family

The UK showroom for Bauformat kitchens

and around the corner to the master bedroom. We therefore had to lift the carpet to the second storey of the house and post it through the balcony doors. That might sound simple, but it took five of the team to get it up there!”

For the ground floor, which incorporated the lounge, kitchen, dining area, hallway and small cloakroom, our client selected Amtico Form Parquet Rural Oak.

The Amtico Form Parquet Rural Oak is an elegantly textured luxury vinyl tile (LVT). With its gloriously golden, honey-toned oak, it creates a warm and welcoming space and

WE’VE GOT IT COVERED

Agorgeous and very rewarding project Gainsborough Flooring recently delivered for a client after they had undertaken a major refurbishment of their entire home, meant we were able to be creative in our approach whilst also considering all the practicalities.

Flooring was required for the entirety of the property with two bedrooms on the top floor, the stairs and landing, plus the complete ground floor incorporating the lounge, kitchen, dining room, hallway and toilet.

Our client was familiar with our service, having played rugby with our very own Eddy Brown for many years. Following numerous productive meetings to discuss ideas for each space and establishing the style and colourways the client was considering, we came up with

various options for them to contemplate. For the bedrooms, the landing and stairs the client opted for Cormar Sensation Heather Bergen Frost.

With a dense, thick and soft pile, the Bergen Frost Sensation Heather carpet adds a cosy and relaxing feel to any room.

can be used in a range of laying pattern configurations, creating a unique space.

Our client commented: “We’re absolutely delighted with the end result and are really pleased we went with a border for the lounge after discussing this with the Gainsborough team. It was great to work with them throughout the whole project, including their attentive and meticulous fitters and the brilliant before and after customer service from the rest of the team.”

The distinctive flecked pile uses two shades of grey in its two-ply Saxony tufts to create a great looking carpet that works well with many room styles and furnishings. The heathered colour can help reduce the appearance of foot marks, which is ideal for well-used areas.

Eddy Brown, Contracts Manager at Gainsborough Flooring commented: “One of the challenges our team faced was to get the carpet upstairs to the bedroom, as we weren’t able to get it through the front door, up the stairs

The client has received tremendous feedback from family and friends visiting their home, who have been more than impressed at the incredible transformation the flooring makes to the space. It even works perfectly for dogs with mucky paws!

Why not contact Gainsborough Flooring and see how they can transform your home? n

Gainsborough Flooring

26 Heatley Street, Preston PR1 2XB 01772 250682

vicky@gainsboroughflooring.co.uk gainsboroughflooring.co.uk

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

Meena McDonald explains how the team at Gainsborough Flooring meticulously planned and executed a project to renew all the flooring in a client’s home – with stunning results!

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.

FIVE EASY DIY GARDEN PROJECTS

If you have a garden with a vegetable patch or an abundance of plants, you might find it tricky to identify which shoots and seedlings are which. You can make your own plant markers using lolly sticks or by threading wine corks onto wooden skewers. Then label them using a permanent marker.

examples online if you’re unsure where to start. Paint in vibrant colours to make a bold summer statement or stick with earthier and more neutral tones. Add the comfort factor by topping with large outdoor cushions.

Lazy days on the lawn and enchanting evenings of al fresco dining are just around the corner – we hope! But is your garden prepared for the sunnier months? Is it on its way to being the inspiring, inviting space you’re envisaging for entertaining family and friends?

Not all of us are blessed with green fingers or creative DIY skills, so designing your perfect outdoor space may seem like an insurmountable task. Happily, we’ve managed to find some of the best easy DIY ideas to make your garden the cream of the crop, and here they are:

ORGANISED OUTDOORS

An untidy garden will look anything but inviting so outdoor storage is essential. A shed or garage is invaluable for garden tools, but if you don’t have one, then create your own tool-tidy zone.

Put your garden wall or fence to work by adding a few simple hooks from which to hang trowels, forks and brushes. If this isn’t an option, a wooden pallet complete with nails or hooks will work just as well, with the added benefit of being portable.

FRUGAL FURNISHING

If you’re planning to enjoy your garden over the coming months, you’ll need somewhere to sit and relax. Garden furniture can be expensive and hard to look after during the winter months, but with a little imagination, there is an alternative to buying a new patio set. The recent lockdowns saw a surge in people seeking unique and budget-friendly ways to upgrade their gardens. Wooden pallets were at the forefront of the trend as DIYers transformed discarded storage items into fabulous outdoor furniture.

Creating furniture from wooden pallets isn’t a project which requires a huge amount of skill and there are countless guides and

PENNY-SAVING PLANTERS AND BOOSTED BEDS

Beds, planters and pots filled with lush botanicals and brilliant blooms will transform even the smallest of outdoor spaces. Whether you have acres of rolling lawn or a compact yard, the very presence of vibrant seasonal flowers will make your space more visually appealing.

Maintaining ground-level flowerbeds is hard work. Bending down to prepare soil or plant bulbs is backbreaking, so raised beds and planters are an excellent alternative and may help protect your plants from the wildlife keen on eating them! Create raised beds from planks, pallets or paving stones and the rest is easy.

Small planters are a gardener’s flexible friend – you can place them in any corner of your patio or garden to brighten it up. Hanging baskets are easy to make, add colour and interest to your home’s exterior walls and are very cost effective.

A WILD WELCOME

Every summer needs a soundtrack and there’s nothing quite like the melodic sound of birdsong. Encourage birds to visit your

Spring is well and truly in the air and as the weather warms up, many of us are itching to spend time in our garden

Proudly installing the UK’s rst

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

garden more often and cater to their needs by making your own bird baths and feeders. Bird baths are surprisingly simple to make, so the ornate and often expensive versions you find in garden centres aren’t required. According to the RSPB, a DIY bird bath should have sloping sides with a water depth ranging from 2.5cm to 10cm, enabling different species of birds to benefit. A rough surface is also important to allow birds to grip as they bathe. An ample-sized bird bath can be made from an old dustbin lid either supported by posts or sunk into the ground and then lined with gravel. Equally easily, bird feeders can be fashioned out of glass or plastic bottles, providing essential sustenance for our feathered friends.

NEVER BIN EASIER

A spare wheelie bin or old dustbin can be

given a new practical and eco-friendly use. Drill several vertical rows of holes and you’ve got yourself a compost bin! The holes will allow air to enter the bin and speed up the decomposition process. Adding compost to your soil has numerous benefits, so a DIY composter is a great addition to any busy garden.

little is required besides a tap fitting and a few tools. By collecting the rainwater which would otherwise run off your garden, you could save as much as 24 litres of water each year. Use this for watering your plants and hosing down your pathway – and you could notice a saving on your water bill!

While you’re transforming your outdoor space this summer, at Hartleys we’ll be bringing new ideas to the indoors. So, if you fancy a fresh look to your bedroom storage, a new ergonomic work-from-home space or a stylish media wall for your lounge, you know where to come. Call us on 01756 700471 to talk through your plans with one of our friendly designers or get in touch to arrange an at-home design visit. n

You can also save water by converting your unused bin into a water butt. There are some excellent how-to videos on YouTube but very

hartleysbedrooms.co.uk

AWARD WINNING KITCHENS

Somax Kitchens, based at Shackleton’s Home and Garden in Chatburn, are Leicht Kitchens specialists and are proud to have the first of three new showroom displays of the awardwinning collection.

Leicht recently won the category for ‘Excellent Product Design’ at this year’s German Design Awards 2023, which is regarded as the pinnacle in the kitchen industry and is testament to their innovation and quality.

Owner of Somax, Toby Lister explains: “These awards honour ground-breaking design successes on a global stage and is one of the highest accolades in our industry, we’re proud to be able to offer Leicht to our customers.

“Leicht kitchens were an obvious choice for Somax,” says Toby. “They offer cutting edge design and quality that mix both modern or traditional styles - luxury finishes and high functionality are what we ensure we give to our customers.”

Toby concludes: “Our new display offers a very elegant solid ash door, but we’ve chosen to show this in a really striking, dark slate grey lacquer. Combined with the dark grey interior and highly functional cabinets, such as the double pantry or corner larder, you have the best blend of traditional and modern worlds.”

Made-to-measure home furnishing specialists, Plumbs, pride themselves on providing a local, bespoke service to Preston and surrounding areas, writes Sarah

lumbs has a 60-year pedigree as a family business offering high-quality, made-to-measure loose furniture covers, curtains and reupholstery. Based at Brookhouse Mill, Preston, their stunning showroom is run by husband and wife team Will and Emma Singleton, giving you all the inspiration you need with fabulous displays, an array of beautiful fabrics and examples of their high-quality products. Showroom Manager, Emma, and her welcoming team are on hand to offer a personal, bespoke

Ulyatt

A PERFECT FIT… GUARANTEED P

service, guiding you through all of the handcut and hand-sewn products offered.

The personal service offered in the showroom is then continued with a free of charge home visit, more often than not by Emma’s husband Will, who will offer advice on colours and fabrics to match your décor as well as measuring and fitting your new covers and curtains for you.

PLUMBS ALSO RECENTLY LAUNCHED A NEW CURTAIN LINING THAT IS SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED TO SAVE ENERGY WITHIN THE HOME

Emma explains: “We are really proud to offer such a personalised, family run business and love helping to transform people’s rooms and furniture.

“We find there are many reasons why our customers choose to have their well-loved furniture re-covered instead of buying new, whether it’s sentimental, practical, environmental or financial. An increasing

Photography: Kirsten Platt

Photography: Kirsten Platt

number of people are definitely seeing the value of investing in the furniture they love, whether that’s traditional family pieces or contemporary settees or chairs.”

Plumbs specialise in reupholstery, loose covers for sofas and chairs as well as made-to-measure curtains, each of which have seen a major resurgence over recent years. Not least to save money but also from a sustainability point of view – why buy new if the sofa or chair just needs a refresh rather than ending up in landfill. Their made-to measure curtains are also seeing huge success as people find ways to keep their energy bills low, with curtains being a fantastic way to keep the heat in. Plumbs also recently launched a new lining that is specifically designed to save energy within the home.

Reupholstery revival

Reupholstery provides the perfect way to revive much loved furniture without compromising on the comfort and style of the original design. With the expertise of

traditional craftspeople the furniture will be stripped back to its original state, reviving the stunning features you originally fell in love with.

Loose cover story

The vast array of loose cover choices means you can choose from neutral or strong colours, go plain or select from an array of patterns and florals – you may have an idea of what you’d like to go for already, or if not you will be given lots of design ideas in the showroom and at your free home visit. All the measuring and fitting is done for you.

Being able to wash the loose covers means they’re easy to maintain, especially for those with pets and children, and you can choose to change them if you want to keep up to date with the latest trends in furnishings.

Stylish curtains

For made-to-measure curtains, Plumbs provide a free, expert in-home measuring and fitting service. All curtains are fully lined, with blind hems and mitred corners for that perfect seamless finish.

New bespoke furniture

Utilising their knowledge and expertise in the furnishings industry, Plumbs has also launched its own bespoke furniture brand, Fable and Plumb. Creating bespoke furniture with washable loose covers using high quality FSC hardwood frames, which are guaranteed for 15 years, this expanding

FROM A SUSTAINABILITY POINT OF VIEW, WHY BUY NEW IF THE SOFA OR CHAIR JUST NEEDS A REFRESH RATHER THAN ENDING UP IN LANDFILL?

range has something to suit everyone with 250 fabrics to choose from. The covers are hand made by skilled cutters and sewers to ensure quality and longevity. You can view the unique furniture as well as many of the gorgeous fabrics in the Preston showroom. Emma concludes: “We are totally committed to delivering a passionate and professional service to all of our customers and have a

huge amount of experience in doing just that. “We always ensure a high-quality finish and whatever your budget may be, there is something for everybody – we can’t wait to help you transform your room or furniture so either pop into the showroom, visit the website or call for a free friendly no obligation home consultancy visit.” n

Plumbs Ltd

Brookhouse Mill

Old Lancaster Lane

Preston PR1 7PZ 01772 259995

showroom@plumbs.co.uk

plumbs.co.uk

fableandplumb.co.uk

Photography: Kirsten Platt

MAGNIFICENT MAGENTA

The team at Pelargoniums for Europe have put together some ideas to bring magenta, a vibrant hot shade of pink, to your outdoor space

Magenta’s bold accent will bring both luminosity and a positive mood wherever it is planted. It can make a bold and beautiful statement when paired with cooler tones in flower borders or as a centrepiece in a container, table display, hanging basket or window box. When used, it will breathe a breath of fresh air into tired displays and is a colour that you will love.

For a quick-fix garden style, look no further than the pelargonium in this year’s hottest colour trend. Here are some of our ideas on how to use magenta pelargoniums and geraniums for a vibrant pop of outdoor colour this summer:

Be bold with borders

Magenta is a warm colour that complements hues like moss or light green beautifully. The foliage of pelargoniums will give a fantastic contrast to the hot pink flowers, making them a showstopper to use in any garden display. Try using a darker, more contrasted green if you want more intensity. Ferns make the ideal companion for any plant with their rich green tones and would look fantastic planted in a border in front of a house or garden fence.

Magenta pelargoniums in pots and containers

One of the easiest and most effective ways to cover a patio, balcony or garden with brilliant

magenta colour is by planting pelargoniums in containers. Why not use a block colour and create a magenta showpiece on your decking or light up a much darker area of the garden? For containers, hanging baskets or window boxes, pair your magenta blooms with silver foliage to add a touch of elegance. They will also work well with white flowers and lilac plants such as lavender, nemesia and lobelia for the perfect cottage garden container. Planting magenta pelargoniums in terracotta or neutral-coloured pots for the kitchen table or work surface will bring both summer and colour inside. Pelargoniums adore being indoors and thrive when placed in the sun. They can also be used as cut flowers because they keep well in vases for up to three weeks.

Combine pelargonium varieties

With more than 500 different types, including upright bushy regals, trailing ivy and scentedleaf plants, combining magenta pelargoniums with red, burgundy, pastel pink and white will result in a spectacular, attention-grabbing spectrum of colours and growth patterns which will flower all summer long. Whether it be a potted display or floral crafts, viva magenta can be fully encapsulated with these versatile plants. n

pelargoniumsforeurope.com

HELPING TO MAKE YOUR DREAM HOME A REALITY.

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BLOOMING LOVELY

May is a marvellous month when the garden is blooming, plants are beginning to flower and show their true colours and it’s the RHS Chelsea Flower Show

We may not all have awardwinning gardens, but our outside space is beginning to come into its own again at this time of year – to be enjoyed by friends and family.

Although alfresco living and entertaining is just around the corner, every garden has its share of unwelcome guests – pests that can eat their way through newly planted flower and veg beds in one sitting. However, instead of choosing chemicals to deal with the problem, try to create an ecosystem that encourages natural predators to keep the pest population at bay.

So, thrifty tip for the month is to work with nature to help your garden establish its own healthy balance. Populate it with plenty of pollinator plants to encourage

hoverflies, the larvae of which will eat aphids and caterpillars – fennel, ivy and verbena bonariensis are particularly good. Encourage birds into the garden as they will eat insect pests and slugs, so hang bird feeders and plant berry producing plants such as honeysuckle, roses and rowan. Deter snails and slugs by removing their habitats such as piles of pots and check regularly down the side of raised beds.

GEUMS ALSO PROVIDE A GARDEN WITH MASSES OF HOT COLOUR FROM SPRING TO EARLY AUTUMN –WHICH IS LOVED NOT ONLY BY GARDENERS BUT ALSO BY POLLINATORS

If natural prevention doesn’t work you could try some organic solutions such as hand picking pests off plants, or spraying with a powerful hose. Another option is using a soapy water spray – simply fill up a hand spray with a weak solution of biodegradable washing up liquid (no more than a couple of squirts of liquid at a time). Slugs hate coffee

granules, sawdust and salt – so sprinkle liberally around plants. If you have a large slug problem you can always water in nematodes (eelworms) as a biological control. As summer approaches and borders start to grow in leaps and bounds, planting out bedding can begin and for many gardeners the hardy geranium is a reliable option. As the RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) says, geraniums have excellent wildlife value along with flowers that attract pollinators. Their seed heads are loved by finches and their foliage gives shelter to insects, plus they come in an array of varieties and colours.

Another popular choice for a great pop of floral colour are geums – dependable, traditional, hardy garden favourites valued for vibrant displays in late spring and summer. They tend to be easy to grow, don’t need much maintenance and are mainly problem free. Deadheading can help them produce more flowers and large plants can be easily split in the winter and replanted. Hybrid varieties have long flowering seasons and can tolerate most growing conditions. Geums also provide a garden with masses of hot colour from spring to early autumn –which is loved not only by gardeners but also by pollinators. Go-to varieties include newcomer Totally Tangerine with single, soft orange flowers from late spring to autumn, established favourite Mrs J Bradshaw with semi-double red flowers and bright yellow Custard Tart. n

RHS GARDENER’S MAY CHECKLIST

• Prune early flowering shrubs

• Plant strawberry runners

• Sow next year’s flowers

• Prune clematis montana

• Tie in sweet peas

• Keep hoeing weeds

• Sow more vegetables

• Plant herbs

featuring

HAROLD RILEY

JAMES LAWRENCE ISHERWOOD

WILLIAM RALPH TURNER

PETER BROOK

ARTHUR DELANEY

Indulge your artistic passion and visit the newly opened Northern Art Lounge at the Hepplestone Fine Art gallery. Now showcasing original artworks by leading members of the Northern Art movement including the iconic L S Lowry and Salford’s Geoffrey Key. “A haven for all lovers of the Northern Art genre”

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Hall Shopping Village, Wood

As the government focuses more on environmental issues and recent legislation has been brought out governing the use of real wood burning stoves via DEFRA, we now, more than ever before, stand by and fully endorse the work of HETAS in accreditation across retail and installation.

HETAS are the recognised industry leading specialists in the certification of solid fuel appliances, and we urge any consumer purchasing wood burning stoves to ask for HETAS approved certification for stockist and installer. Aswell as being a potentially dangerous fire hazard, a fitted fire not signed off by a (competent) HETAS installer can invalidate your home insurance.

For more information on the new legislation and to enable you to make a cleaner and, most importantly, safer choice - go to https://www.hetas.co.uk/

BEE CREATIVE DESIGNS

Bespoke soft furnishings direct from the makers

CURTAINS | ROMAN BLINDS | CUSHIONS | UPHOLSTERY

Beautiful bespoke blinds, curtains and cushions are more affordable than you might think when you go direct to the makers. We design and hand finish all our soft furnishings at our workshop in Clitheroe and we are happy to work with fabrics sourced direct by our clients.

We can also source quality fabrics from a variety of suppliers locally or nationally. Pop into see us at our workshop on Hawthorne Business Park near Collins White Tiles and Leaping Lizards to discuss your specific requirements or get in touch via email, social media or telephone.

Contact us via social media call us on 01200 871536 or simply scan the QR code. beecreativehomedesign beecreativeribblevalley beecreativedesigns.org

PRACTICAL & BEAUTIFUL

When Andrew and Hollie Reid decided it was time to replace the kitchen and utility in their three-bedroom semidetached family home, they turned to local company Rossendale Interiors, where they met designer Suzanne Halcrow.

“We had a good idea of what we wanted,” recalls mum-of-three Hollie. “When we met Suzy, she was really helpful and she came up with two different designs.”

The old U-shaped kitchen in the Reid’s home featured beech-effect laminate units, which were out-dated. Andrew and Hollie’s vision was to achieve a practical, yet beautiful kitchen with solid wood cabinetry, as designer Suzy explains: “While they had a set idea of what they wanted, Andrew and Hollie were open to other suggestions.

“There was a couple of technical issues, which we were able to work around. There was an alcove in the kitchen which was initially just going to have doors across it. But I went back to them with a ‘wild card’. I suggested that instead of viewing it as a problem, we make it into a feature.”

Suzy’s plan was to have a set of bespoke wine racks made in the joinery workshop where

they were custom sprayed in Midnight Blue to match the Pendle Midnight Blue cabinets. Above the wine racks glass shelving was installed and illuminated from above, making the alcove a fabulous focal point.

corner larder unit, there was extra space, which was perfect for a bespoke bookcase.

“Keith custom-built the bookcase from scratch – again utilising space that would otherwise be wasted,” says Suzy.

The end result is a stunning kitchen that works on every level – the Midnight Blue cabinetry is complemented by Ice White quartz worktops that add a touch of sparkle, there is a white Belfast sink and solid wood flooring while the lighting in the display alcove adds ambience and atmosphere.

“I was so pleased that Hollie and Andrew were willing to be flexible in their approach. The alcove is now a lovely feature rather than wasted space.”

Similarly, when Rossendale Interiors’ skilled fitter, Keith Fishwick, came to install an angled

The peninsula breakfast bar and utility are practical additions that blend well in this busy family room that has been transformed by the team at Rossendale Interiors: “The service we received has been excellent,” says Hollie. “Suzy was really good to work with.”

Suzy adds: “The Reid’s kitchen was a lovely project for us. There is a hob in the peninsula, so we were able to implement the tried and tested ‘working triangle’ making it compact and practical. The design really pops – and thanks to Rossendale Interiors’ ability to customise in-house, we were able to utilise every inch of space.” n

A family home has been transformed with the installation of a stunning new kitchen featuring Midnight Blue cabinetry and sparkling white quartz worktops.

Photography: Kirsten Platt

ABOVE THE WINE RACK GLASS SHELVING WAS INSTALLED AND ILLUMINATED FROM ABOVE, MAKING THE ALCOVE A FABULOUS FOCAL POINT

FIRES TO FALL IN LOVE WITH

With 32 years’ experience advising, supplying and fitting electric and gas fires, fireplaces, stoves and woodburners, Preston’s Burning Desires knows exactly how to turn up the heat without burning your budget, writes Kate Bowyer.

Photography: Roger Moore

Over the last year, how to heat our homes efficiently and economically as well as beautifully, has preoccupied us more than we could have imagined. Luckily the experts at Burning Desires have been helping customers seamlessly solve this challenge for decades.

“Astute customers are taking advantage of the summer months to plan for next winter,” observes owner Paddy Umpleby. “Who can afford to maintain an inefficient gas fire, knowing half your increasing energy bill is

literally going straight up the chimney? It’s the foresight to invest in a new fire, knowing you’ll reap the benefits of a warmer home for

less cost, for years to come.”

Luckily, just as cost-of-living challenges have ramped up, so has the technology. Situated on Garstang Road, handily on the main A6 from the M6 into Preston City Centre, Burning Desires stays abreast of the very latest developments. This enables them to stock the newest efficient models and welcome exclusive partners like British Fires and Dutch manufacturers Kalfire.

“Electric fires have developed out of all recognition in the last two years,” advises Paddy. “Perfect timing for customers considering alternatives to gas. Establishing themselves at the forefront of electric fire and stove design, British Fires marry modern design with cutting-edge ‘air curtain’ technology, drawing cooler room air in and circulating it through special channels to distribute controlled heat into the room.”

For homes where gas remains the most effective option, manufacturers like Kalfire, Faber, Elgin and Hall and Gazco have raised the bar on design, performance and efficiency, including glass-fronted gas fires which operate at twice the efficiency of open-fronted, and many which can be controlled remotely via a smartphone app, to warm the room exactly and only when needed.

To incorporate these exciting innovations,

the team at Burning Desires have modified the showroom and introduced new displays, now showcasing over 70 installations across two floors. Traditional, contemporary, hole in the wall, corner, freestanding, ‘floating’ designs and stunning four-metre showpieces – it’s the perfect way to picture exactly which fire feels like ‘home’. Woodburners and solid fuel stoves range from snug to sleek, all benefiting from the highest performance and clean-air specifications.

“Aesthetics and appearance are still incredibly important,” confirms Paddy. “Your fire is the heart of your home, the key to creating feelings of warmth, security and relaxation. This is why I made my twin focuses for 2023 sourcing the best new suppliers and models, and displaying them to the customer’s best advantage.”

It’s been a busy and exciting year for Paddy, who took on the business from Burning Desires’ founder and shareholder Sean Treaddell in January. Having started working for Sean aged just 18, Paddy is committed to continuing the integrity and care that has made the business so loved and trusted by customers.

“Sean created and built an incredible company, which deserves its reputation,” reflects Paddy. “I’m so proud to have been able to take this opportunity. Everything customers have come to expect continues –I’m the same, the team is the same. Between us, we have over 100 years’ worth of experience in the industry!

“Feedback confirms we’re doing the right thing, maintaining the highest standards of expertise, attention and understanding. The only things that have changed are even more exciting new additions to our portfolio and showroom.”

Burning Desires continues to be the trusted partner for an increasing number of architects, interior designers and house builders across the North West and the Isle of Man, and are currently consulting on a project in central London.

“These partnerships benefit everybody,” explains Paddy. “Enabling exactly the right fireplace to be chosen, integrated and fitted seamlessly into newbuilds, conversions or renovations, both domestic and commercial, our experienced and meticulous installation teams ensure the trickiest installation is completed to the highest standard and finish.

“Just as we appreciate buying a fire is a significant decision, our passion is ensuring it is also a life-enhancing one. Our showroom enables you to discover the best and newest models in a relaxed setting, with fantastic staff on hand to assist as little or as much as you choose. We understand this may be a once in two-decades decision, so we’re with you every step of the way to making sure it’s the right one.” n

JUST AS WE APPRECIATE BUYING A FIRE IS A SIGNIFICANT DECISION, OUR PASSION IS ENSURING IT IS ALSO A LIFE-ENHANCING ONE

THREE YEAR PROJECT

The next stage of this stunning, Dovetail renovation project will be the creation of a luxury outdoor kitchen and the transformation of a garage, featuring a classic wood-panelled interior, to house a brand new supercar

Just over the Lancashire Yorkshire border, a fabulous three-storey farmhouse, built in the 1700s, is being renovated for a busy family.

Initially the owners of the five-bedroom home, wanted a practical, utility/laundry room on the ground floor of the stone-built, historic property to deal with regular, heavy wash-loads of muddy rugby kit.

Also on the ground floor was small cosy space, where the home-owners, a professional couple, envisioned a small bar to house their every-growing collection of Scotch.

To carry out the work, they commissioned local company Dovetail, which is located on the moors above the village of Cowling. Renowned for fine craftsmanship, Dovetail is headed up by family members, Chris Jardine and Russell Ingham, who with their expert team of craftsmen, provide a full service from conception to completion.

Designer Chris met the owners of the farmhouse, which is located on the outskirts of a tiny, picturesque, rural village near Skipton: “The family had lived in the house

for seven years, but it hadn’t been renovated at all since the 1980s, so three years ago, they asked Dovetail to start the renovation project with the laundry room on the ground floor,” says Chris.

“They very much lead a busy sporting life, so the turnover of kit is substantial.”

Today the laundry room features a built-in washer/dryer stack with neat, pull-out shelves for laundry baskets, a drying cupboard and a larder flanked by a large, top-of-the-range Fisher Paykel fridge.

The built-in Shaker-style cabinets are painted in Bone, a classic Farrow & Ball heritage shade, while all the work surfaces are quartz throughout. Porcelain flooring in the utility runs throughout the ground floor, including the small intimate drinks area, where there are two comfortable armchairs and an oak bar backed with antique mirroring.

“The owners were delighted with the laundry room and bar and asked Dovetail to re-model the kitchen on the first floor,” says Chris.

The new Shaker-style kitchen features an island in Farrow & Ball’s Duck Green and integrated cabinets to the rest of the kitchen are painted in Bone. The couple chose a white porcelain sink with Perrin and Rowe nickel taps, which complement the pewter handles of the cabinets and also on the couple’s

ALL THE WORK FOR THIS ONGOING RENOVATION PROJECTS WAS DONE IN-HOUSE FROM DESIGN TO FRUITION

wishlist, was a second Fisher Paykel fridge. An existing racing green AGA takes centre stage within the kitchen, which has a dining area where Chris designed a cupboard with bi-fold doors, which concertina open to reveal a coffee-making machine: “The homeowners were great to work with,” recalls Chris, who was then commissioned to remodel the house bathroom, which features painted panelling and a free-standing, stone egg-shaped bath with shower: “All the work for this ongoing renovation projects was done inhouse at Dovetail, from design to fruition.”

Following on from the house bathroom Dovetail worked on the master bedroom, en-suite and childrens’ bedrooms, which have now been completed. And, the Dovetail team are set to return to the farmhouse to complete an outdoor kitchen and install beautiful, classic wooden panelling to a large garage in readiness for the delivery of a world-beating supercar! But more about that in the next issue. n

If you have an upcoming project and want to know more about Dovetail don’t hesitate to contact Chris, who would be delighted to give you more information about their outstanding design and craftsmanship services

Dovetail

Colne Road, Cowling, Keighley BD22 0NN 01535 637770

kitchensatdovetail.co.uk

THE DOVETAIL TEAM ARE SET TO RETURN TO THE FARMHOUSE TO COMPLETE AN OUTDOOR KITCHEN IN FRENCH OAK

AND FOLIAGE FRAGRANT FLOWERS

We will soon be in June, a lovely month to be in the garden –everything is bursting into bloom and you can really enjoy being outside

With the evenings getting longer and brighter you can use your garden or patio as a great extension to your home – whether it’s in the countryside or in a smaller, but equally treasured, urban environment.

It’s also traditionally the time to plant out bedding plants which are so much part of the floral display of a summer garden. However, in addition to looking good, some plants also taste good. Herbs have some of the most beautiful flowers in the garden and are edible.

So, thrifty tip for the month is, if you plant a selection of flowering edible herbs you will have a beautiful garden good enough to eat! You can make any herb produce more flowers by planting them in a well drained site or container in a sunny location. When planting a herb that you want to flower use some organic compost and feed in the planting hole then plant the herb, water at the base and keep the soil moist throughout the growing season. Along with basil, sage and mint, chives are delightful edible treats with beautiful flowers and make lovely pollinator plants.

You could also let your herbs bolt – when the plant changes from being mainly leaf-based to a plant that has mostly flowers and stems. Once a herb has bolted, when the weather gets hot and dry, it loses its flavour and produces flowers that are rich with nectar that attract bees and butterflies. If you want to attract moths, then try plants with white flowers that release their scent in the evening such as tobacco plants or night-scented stocks.

over winter. Cuttings can be taken in late summer. Popular varieties include Attar of Roses with pale green foliage, a rosy aroma and pink flowers, Prince of Orange with a strong orange scent and pale purple and white flowers and Deerwood Lavender Lass a semi-trailing plant with olive green leaves and rosy-mauve flowers.

The extra light and warmth this month encourages the garden to put on an exuberant burst of growth – especially fruit trees. n

RHS GARDENER’S JUNE CHECKLIST

• Tie in climbing or rambling roses

• Pinch out side shoots on tomatoes

• Mow lawns at least once a week

Another aromatic addition to the garden is the scented-leaved pelargonium – commonly known as geranium – that brings foliage, fragrance and flowers to any outside space. There are a variety of fragrances – lemon, rose, lavender, cinnamon, apple – created from natural oils within the leaves that are released when brushed with fingers or hands, and sometimes after a summer shower. Scentedleaved pelargoniums are best grown in containers in the sunny position. They can withstand chills outside especially if grown next to a house wall, but not frosts and if temperatures dip, they are best brought inside

• Recycle grass clippings

• Begin feeding potted flowers

• Protect brassicas from cabbage white caterpillars

• Plant out dahlias

• Be water wise and try to use grey water in the garden

• Watch out for mould on fruit, especially strawberries

• Weed regularly

PERFECT STRIPES SINCE 1970

The Hayter Harrier® lawnmower – 50 years at the top of it’s game.

The Hayter Harrier® rear roller lawnmower now features industry leading Crank-Safe Blade Brake Clutch system† and optional electric start, combined with exquisite striping ability and perfectly matched petrol power engines. Groovy in the 70s, even more capable today... Because a perfectly striped lawn will never go out of style. Find out more at your nearest Hayter dealer.

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SUMMER CASUALS

Keeping in Touch shirt £35 Full of Action combats £45 joebrowns.co.uk

trainer £89.95

Northern Quarter shop in Manchester – both outlets have a relaxed vibe.

The site on Mitton Road Business Park was the original LANX store and has become busier and bigger since opening in 2019. A recent customer review said that it was the ‘best retail experience he had ever had’, commenting that the LANX team really appreciated they were selling such a well-made product. “We pride ourselves on the level of service at LANX,” Marco says. “We have an unhurried, zero pressure environment ensuring customers get the attention they need to buy footwear most suited to them.”

NEW SEASON –NEW COLLECTIONS

Whalley based footwear brand LANX launches new styles for summer 2023. Gail Bailey chats to owner Marco Vaghetti to find out more

Now in their sixth year, LANX are a Ribble Valley footwear brand, proudly working with small independent shoemakers to create handmade brogues, boots and sneakers for men and women.

Growing year on year, LANX never stands still with their designs and have introduced a new made in England men’s range, named ‘Artisan’, along with additions to their popular ‘1985’ and ‘Summer’ collections: “We’re excited about our new collections and look forward to sharing them with customers,” says owner Marco Vaghetti. “Our fabulous Summer collection is formal but with a casual element, in a range of new seasonal colours and made in relaxed suedes and nubucks. Including lightweight leather deck shoes, boat shoes and

moccasins, the collection sits well alongside our ever-popular range of quality made in England sneakers.”

The LANX team will be taking their new collection, along with all their stylish footwear, out on the road and have a busy summer season ahead with 45 UK events. The LANX Shoe Shed visits some of the finest events in the country, having just returned from Badminton Horse Trials: “We are excited to take our new footwear to share with customers as we travel up and down the country.

I PURCHASED A PAIR OF BOOTS FROM THE LANX SHOP IN WHALLEY – EXTREMELY COMFORTABLE, STYLISH AND THE CRAFTMANSHIP IS FIRST CLASS. THANKS LANX!

“We pride ourselves on the individuality and quality of our designs and on using only the finest leather and materials, many of which are sourced in the north of England, with each shoe stamped with the Lancashire Rose and our own British White Bull,” Marco adds. Customers can shop online or visit LANX at the Whalley warehouse store or the

SPECIAL OFFER

10% off in-store or online with code LIVERV10

Offer ends 1st July 2023

Marco travelled extensively whilst researching the concept of LANX: “I visited 10 countries and had an incredible adventure. I was especially inspired by the talented shoemakers I came across in Tokyo – most were deeply traditional and skilled at making shoes by hand.”

The attention to detail and craftsmanship has seen LANX form partnerships and collaborations with some of the top sports teams in the country including Leicester Tigers, Wigan Warriors and more recently, the Welsh rugby team who will be wearing LANX shoes as they travel to the Rugby Union World Cup later this year. n

LANX Unit 29-30, Mitton Road Business Park Mitton Road, Whalley BB7 9YE

7 Oak Street, Manchester M4 5JD

hello@lanxshoes.com lanxshoes.com

FATFACE HAYWOOD STRIPE T-SHIRT £25 fatface.com

M&S COLLECTION PERSONALISED BASEBALL CAP £19.50 marksandspencer.com

BARBOUR COWES POLO £64.95

BARBOUR DECKHAM SWIM SHORT £69.95 barbour.com

GET SET

BARBOUR PIQUE

POLO £49.95

Varey’s Town and Country

2 Market Place Clitheroe BB7 2DB 01200 423267 vareys.co.uk

LANX BRINSCALL SHOE IN SMOKE £165

LANX Unit 29-30

Mitton Road Business Park Whalley BB7 9YE lanxshoes.com

VILEBREQUIN MOOREA PRINT SWIMMING SHORTS £239

Sharpened, colourful fish print on this superb swimwear collection available in-store.

Scruples 1984 85-87 Gisburn Road

Barrowford BB9 6DX 01282 695770

DUBARRY CHARLEVILLE WATERPROOF JACKET £199 vareys.co.uk

HEBTROCO OLIVE GREEN CARGO PANTS £150 hebtro.co

LANX ANCOATES SNEAKERS £180 lanxshoes.com

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

CASPER II RECYCLED PLASTIC SUNGLASSES £30 nationaltrust.org.uk/shop

MEN'S WALDLAUFER DECK SHOE £99

Fitright Footwear

32D King Street Clitheroe BB7 2EP 01200 425399

fitrightfootwear.co.uk

THE LARGEST STOCKIST OF QUALITY COUNTRY CLOTHING IN THE NORTH WEST

If you are looking for the very best in country wear, footwear, accessories and quality giftware then look no further than Vareys Town and Country

HERE COMES SUMMER… S

Call into Scruples 1984 to discover exciting collections that will take you seamlessly from spring into summer.

Photography: Kirsten Platt

hades of spring and summertime have been introduced at exclusive menswear store Scruples 1984, where all the latest collections are arriving.

It’s an exciting time for store manager Tom Orrell and Scruples 1984 founder Stephen Collins – and also for their discerning clientele, who expect the very best from each season.

And, as spring turns into summer they will not be disappointed, as Tom enthuses: “There are pops of bright colours as well as softer shades running throughout. From suiting to shirts, colour is everywhere and it’s putting everyone in a really great mood! The sunshine brings the best out of us and a good pop of colour suits the mood really well!”

From light beige, peach, pale blue and

soft laurel green to brightly coloured garments and accessories, when you visit Scruples 1984 you’re sure to find something that catches the eye.

“Laurel green is strong this season, it’s

represented across suiting and shirts in linen, cotton and fine wool,” explains Tom, who is delighted to announce that Scruples 1984 now offers international suiting label Canali, with its exclusive Italian cloths and designs: “It’s a real accolade for us to have Canali on board here at Scruples. Playing with soft new

lemon print featuring hundreds of tiny lemons and green leaves in a beautiful, cool linen fabric. The print and colours are also repeated and reflected in accessories such as pocket handkerchiefs and ties.

Also from ETON, comes a series of playful florals in shades of spring pink, violet and orange – the perfect complement to smart suiting.

Speaking of which, Scruples 1984 has a good number of bespoke summer ‘one-offs’ from exclusive tailoring brand Loro Piana: “These are representative of what clients can have in their summer collection,” says Tom.

“We have had them made to showcase the fabrics and the quality of the tailoring. These are really exclusive garments – made as single pieces that can be mixed and matched. If customers come into the store and they like what they see, they can have these bespoke pieces made especially for them.”

VILEBREQUIN SWIM SHORTS COME IN VIBRANT BLOCK COLOURS WHEN DRY BUT WHEN YOU GO INTO THE WATER A PATTERN APPEARS –THEY’RE GREAT FUN!

spring colours in shirting and florals is a great way to accessorise fabulous Canali suiting.”

Shirts from classic brand ETON often take centre stage with their stand-out colours and eye-catching designs. ETON’s print of the season focuses on lemons – with a flattering

Staying with summer suiting, there are a number of linen designs in soft pink and blue as well as a brighter green, from Scruples’ own in-house Italian label Rupert Totti along with a collection of accessories and leather belts.

Exploring the in-store casual collections, Scruples 1984 has Hand Picked Jeans, likened to Jacob Cohen denim – featuring fabulous lightweight, stretch denim in a beautiful palette of colours, which are great teamed with floral stand-out shirts by Guide London, Emanuel Berg and Claudio Lugli: “These come in fine cotton, stretch cotton and linen and they are perfect for a summer barbecue,” adds Tom, who has just overseen the delivery of –and made a further order of – exclusive Jeffery West footwear.

“They are in suede which softens the style for summer. They come in various shades

including caramel, chocolate, navy and ‘yute’ –a really versatile colour.”

With international names such as Belstaff, MACKAGE, Paul and Shark, Parajumper and Vilebrequin all arriving in-store, it’s clear that the team at Scruples are looking forward to the new season ahead: “It’s a really exciting time of year for us,” says Tom.

IF CUSTOMERS COME INTO THE STORE AND THEY LIKE WHAT THEY SEE, THEY CAN HAVE THESE BESPOKE PIECES MADE SPECIALLY

“The colour in store is a real change – take the Vilebrequin collection. It’s really bright –and fun! We have swim shorts with vibrant patterns and the latest ones to arrive change when you dive into the sea! They are vibrant block colours when dry but when you go into the water a pattern appears – there is a fish design, crab and lobster and seahorse –they’re great and sure to be really popular as the summer holiday season approaches!” n

We know what works, bringing you the perfect blend of traditional and contemporary for a look that is polished yet comfortable.

The beauty of bespoke is that we can create exactly the look and style you want in the most flattering shape for you. We are creating suits to stand the test of time, to be enjoyed for years not seasons.

We take you through every aspect and option to ensure that the result is your perfect bespoke suit.

“People always ask me what the trends are, but I’m not a believer in trends. Individuality is more important to me, to stand out and have the confidence to wear something you’re comfortable in – I’m comfortable wearing a suit.”

DAVID GANDY

For the jacket, from deciding on single or double-breasted, we ascertain all your preferences and what will work best, from the number of buttons and vents, to whether the pockets will be straight, slanted, flap, patch or jetted, and if you would like a ticket pocket.

For the lapel shape, you might opt for the most popular notch lapel or something different like a peak lapel or shawl collar.

Inside the jacket you have options such as an inside breast pockets, an inside ticket pocket that might hold your mobile phone or business cards, and an inside pen pocket.

For the trousers, you might want two back pockets, none or one on the right or left, slant side pockets or jetted ones for a dinner suit.

You choose whether you want belt loops, side adjusters or brace buttons, flat-fronted or with one or two pleats, and whether you like turn-ups.

Our style at Charles Campbell combines the very best aspects of English and Italian tailoring.

GIVE YOUR FEET A HOLIDAY THIS SUMMER

Photography: Kirsten Platt

Whether you are planning to chill by a pool, enjoy countryside walks, city breaks or spend days out with friends, the footwear you choose to wear is of the utmost importance to make sure you have comfortable feet and get the most out of your holidays.

Feet need supportive and comfortable shoes that fit. It’s also important to remember that whatever footwear you select to put on your feet, it must be fit for purpose – a shoe with a sturdy outdoor sole unit is best for those countryside walks over rough terrain, whereas if you are popping into town or out to lunch with friends a trainer or casual shoe might be a better option to wear with trousers, jeans, dresses or skirts.

us to encourage our customers to think differently about the footwear they are putting on their feet. We try to encourage our customers to understand that our feet change as we get older and sometimes what our feet need and what our head wants are two different things. Unfortunately, some customers find that what they were wearing on their feet five years ago for example, is just not practical anymore.

Our footwear can help with several foot problems including Morton’s neuroma, plantar fasciitis, bunions and arthritis. Our shoes also have removable insoles and extra depth to accommodate orthotics.

At fitright footwear we offer a one-to-one, personal appointment. As professional shoe fitters, we will measure your feet, fit your footwear and help you select the correct shoe. Our in-depth product knowledge helps

Book your appointment now for a unique fitright experience and put a smile on your feet – they will thank you for it. n

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

Our extensive range of footwear is designed to give our customers as much choice as possible. We pride ourselves on our honesty and if the shoe doesn’t fit correctly, we will tell you. We would rather not make a sale or advise taking some time to think about the purchase than have a customer leave with footwear that does not fit or is not something they really want. We want customers to leave the shop happy that they have made the right choice.

In some styles our sizes range from size three to size 10 for women and size six to 16 for men. We can also offer a variety of widths and depths in several brands.

Fitright Footwear

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

Summer is on its way so make sure your feet are holiday ready by treating them to an appointment at fitright footwear.

Frames by BOZ, available to wear in-store as part of our Virtual Try On collection

HUGO BOSS BOTTLED INFINITE

EAU DE PARFUM £51.99

An energising, addictive fragrance that combines the freshness of citrus with the intensity of aromatic and woody notes. perfumedirect.com

DR BARBARA STURM FACE CREAM £140

This lightweight and fast-absorbing cream contains potent active ingredients purslane and skullcap to boost skin, soothe irritation and protect from harsh influences, leaving it feeling refreshed and hydrated. en.drsturm.com

REVIVE & REFRESH

These luxury fragrances and skin products will keep you looking fresh and cool throughout the summer

ELEMIS THE COLLECTOR’S EDITION FOR HIM £65

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

Grooming essentials on the go worth £88, includes: Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Wash, Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads, Pro-Collagen Marine Cream for Men, Ice Cool Foaming Shave Gel, Pro- Collagen Eye Revive Mask and Coo—Down Body Wash. The Spa Hotel at Ribby Hall Village Ribby Road Preston PR4 2PR 01772 671111 ribbyhall.co.uk

HELIOCARE 360 A-R EMULSION SPF50 £32.99

GET 10% DISCOUNT + FREE P&P

A light fluid with anti-redness system to restore the skin barrier and soothe, this is supercharged with antioxidants, packed with high levels of broad-spectrum daylight protection and pigmented to unify skin tone and blur blemishes. discoverlaser.co.uk/skincare-products

SISLEYUM FOR MEN GLOBAL REVITALIZER £220

A complete anti-ageing product specifically designed for men’s skin that firms, corrects wrinkes, hydrates, fights razor burn and fatigue. sisley-paris.com

ELEMIS SUPERFOOD

KEFIR TEA MIST £28

A refreshing mist that hydrates and tones for an all-day healthy complexion. ribbyhall.co.uk

A

AESOP MOROCCAN NEROLI SHAVING DUET £65

shave serum and post shave lotion to maintain smooth, calm, hydrated and soft skin while shaving. aesop.com

MEN NEED SKIN CARE TOO

More and more men are investing in their skin health and appearance. Some want to look good and have seen the positive effects of their partner’s skincare regime. Others have learned about the dangers of sun exposure and are taking steps to protect themselves. Some have skin issues and are turning to non-surgical and surgical treatments to bring skin back to optimum health - while they have a common desire to look and feel their best, their reasons for wanting treatment are varied.

My skin has brown patches

Many men regret not using sunscreen in their youth and have age spots, uneven skin tone, broken veins and fine lines due to sunlight damaging the skin’s structure. Some feel the state of their skin ages them and are turning to medical-grade laser and topical medications which work well to minimise its appearance. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen shields their skin from UVA and UVB rays and prevents future damage.

I’ve got a growth that doesn’t look right

Men often have lumps and bumps that are harmless, so spotting something that’s new or changing is easy to dismiss as nothing to worry about. Men in the know, are getting their skin checked by someone qualified in dermatology and choosing to have effective non-surgical and specialist surgery, like Mohs, done privately - benign or more serious, growths can be banished quickly and effectively with minimal downtime.

DISCOVER LASER IS AN AMAZING PLACE TO VISIT AND HAVE TREATMENT... THE EXPERIENCE AND PROFESSIONALISM HERE WAS FIRST CLASS. THE RESULTS ARE AMAZING TOO ~ CRAIG, PRESTON ~

My face is red like a heavy drinker

Men can be troubled by flushing, facial redness and facial veins, which may be caused by Rosacea, a facial blood vessel disorder made worse by sun, stress, spicy food and alcohol. There’s no permanent cure, but symptoms can be greatly reduced through a highly effective combination of treatment including laser. The results make a dramatic difference to confidence and appearance.

My excess hair is a pain

While many men are thankful for the hair they still have, some have too much. Shaving and painful waxing can lead to razor burn and ingrowing hairs. Men are starting to discover the benefits of permanent laser hair reduction, which ends the constant cycle of hair removal and the problems it causes.

I feel self conscious about my scar From work meetings to family catch-ups, we now spend a lot of time on camera. Scars we’ve lived with for years (from acne, accident or illness) can suddenly seem more evident. Their appearance can be improved with clinically proven treatments that start a repair process leading to a smoother, flatter and more even surface.

Discover Laser provides an environment where men can feel comfortable and not intimidated. They aim to exceed their expectations and deliver safe subtle improvements to help them feel better about their appearance. n

To book a Skin 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

Skin care was once considered ‘just for women’ but the specialist doctors at Discover Laser are welcoming a growing number of men to their skin clinic for dermatology and rejuvenation

CROW WOOD, ROYLE LANE BURNLEY BB12 0RT • 01282 420886

MIND MATTERS

experience a sense of personal fulfilment and satisfaction as they challenge harmful gender stereotypes and contribute to a more just society. Men who take on caregiving roles may also experience greater closeness and bonding with their children, as well as a sense of personal development as they learn new skills and take on new responsibilities. However, men who struggle to adapt to changing gender roles may experience feelings of confusion, anxiety, or even a sense of loss as they grapple with changing expectations and norms. Men who experience pressure to conform to traditional gender roles may also feel a sense of social isolation or exclusion if they do not fit the stereotypical mould of what it means to be a man.

Furthermore, men who have internalised toxic masculinity may experience feelings of shame, guilt, or inadequacy as they confront the harmful effects of their beliefs and behaviours. It may take time for these men to unlearn harmful gender norms and develop healthier attitudes and behaviours, which can be a challenging process.

Reduced stress: Men who embrace healthier forms of masculinity that prioritise emotional expression and vulnerability may experience reduced stress and improved mental health outcomes.

• Stronger relationships: Men who take an active role in caregiving and parenting may experience stronger bonds with their partners and children.

• Increased sense of belonging: Men who work towards creating more inclusive and equitable communities may experience an increased sense of belonging and connection.

Negative impacts:

• Role confusion: Men who struggle to reconcile their traditional gender role expectations with newer, more flexible gender roles may experience confusion and uncertainty about their identity and purpose.

• Social backlash: Men who challenge traditional gender norms and stereotypes may face social backlash, including ridicule, harassment, or even violence, which can take a toll on their mental health.

• Resistance from others: Men who attempt to take on new roles and responsibilities may face resistance or pushback from those who are invested in maintaining the status quo.

• Increased pressure: Men who take on more responsibilities, such as caregiving or actively working towards gender equality, may experience increased pressure to perform in these roles, leading to feelings of stress.

However, during my work as a Time Line Licensed Practitioner I see a number of instances where men are hugely uncomfortable with the negative emotions they feel around gender equality. Consciously, they have no issue with it, however subconsciously it stirs up unwanted and unexplained emotion. Through Time Line Therapy we often find that these emotions are passed down through a past life or genealogically. When we release those emotions, the conflict disappears. n

The changing role of men in society can have both positive and negative psychological impacts, depending on how it is experienced by individuals and the broader social context in which it occurs.

On the positive side, men who embrace more equitable and progressive gender roles may

Positive impacts:

• Greater sense of fulfilment: Men who take on caregiving responsibilities or actively work towards gender equality may experience a greater sense of fulfilment and purpose in their lives.

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.

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

Therapeutic coach Lynn Scholes looks at the changing role of men in society and how it impacts each individual

REGAIN YOUR YOUTHFUL LOOKS WITH CONFIDENCE

Emma Pearce at EMA Skin Aesthetics is one of the most sought after, experienced and highly skilled aesthetic specialists in Lancashire. Her aim is to achieve life-changing results, and she has dedicated decades to mastering the safest, most effective and least intrusive treatments available.

With an approval rate of 99.9 per cent across thousands of clients, you couldn’t really ask for more validation of her skills and success.

Two of the most popular anti-ageing treatments are:

• PlasmaPen 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.

• 7 D Focused Ultrasound, which features the latest non-surgical technology using High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound and MicroMacro 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. With little to no down time!

The results have been genuinely astounding, with clients’ commenting:

“I’m extremely delighted with the results. I’ve had both PlasmaPen and 7D Ultrasound on my marionette lines and jowl area. I couldn’t be more pleased, so much so, I’ve now booked to have the neck lift.”

(Denise M)

“I had wrinkle-smoothing injections and fillers for 13 years but didn’t like the results nor the long-term effects these treatments were having. A friend recommended Emma, and after having PlasmaPen and other treatments with Emma, it’s the best run into a friend I have ever had!”

(Linda S)

“I had my full eye area treated with PlasmaPen with absolutely brilliant results. It wasn’t painful at all and the results stopped me from wanting surgery – just perfect.”

(Susan S)

“I’ve had my full face and neck treated with PlasmaPen, Hyapen and Ultrasound 7D, and the results are just remarkable. I’m 73 but look and feel 20 years younger. Even my doctor thought I wasn’t in the waiting room recently as he didn’t think for a minute I could be his next 73-year-old patient.”

(Christine K)

“Emma’s professionalism, passion, patience and understanding with me throughout the treatment plan and journey so far has been just wonderful. I’ve had PlasmaPen treatment on my lower face and neck followed by Ultrasound 7D in the same areas with Emma. I’m only half-way through and I’m absolutely thrilled with the results and overall experience.”

(Joan F)

All AFTER images show results after 3 weeks, full results will be seen after 3 months

ONE TIME ONLY SUMMER OFFER BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!

PlasmaPen £185 off each area. Areas start from £250. Ultrasound 7D £195 of each area. Areas start from £300. 25% off each ml of Hyapen.

Offers ends 26th June 2023

Limited availability!

You can regain your youthful looks safely and confidently with full recommendations from happy EMA clients

MORE THAN JUST FRAGRANCE…

Rose: balances, grounds, stabilises and calms. Vetiver: is grounding, soothing and calms irritability.

Peppermint: is great for headaches and nausea. So, switching your fragrances can help you close the door on work or difficult situations and establish a more relaxing environment.

Melt uses many different essential oils to create their fragrances, which establishes that all-important ambience for home and work. We have a peaceful Chandlery and perfumery where you can while away an hour selecting your perfect fragrance, glass of wine in hand. We operate a ‘no rush, no push’ welcome for customers and are always delighted to talk fragrance should you wish.

Rightly known for changing our mood and creating ambience, fragrance is far more than a quick spritz on the wrists, and we now understand the benefits of using it in the workplace and home. Studies prove that fragrance influences how we perceive and feel about an activity or place.

emotion, productivity – and to help reduce stress and tension. Also, knowing how different oils work means we can put them to better use so, we can differentiate between work, social and relaxation areas using fragrance. Essential oils are well researched and information is readily available and it’s worth taking the time to understand their benefits (and possible negatives).

To finish – here are a few fun scented snippets!

We have a smell print (like it or not) which is as unique as a fingerprint and only ever the same in identical twins.

It takes us half a second to respond to smell, compared with a full second to respond to pain. Perfumers do not have ‘better noses’ – they just know how to use them.

Humans have 350 functional olfactory receptor genes – mice have 1300!

Here’s a few to get you started:

SWITCHING

Here’s how it works:

Firstly, we smell with our brains and not with our nose. When inhaling fragrance, compounds enter the olfactory system via the nasal passage and from there directly impact the limbic system – the area of the brain dealing with emotions, memory and mood.

Understanding this means we can choose fragrance to create positive changes to mood,

Lavender: is seriously versatile but understanding that it promotes restful sleep and relaxation means you know to choose wisely where to use it – not so good for post lunch – but a definite contender for the end of the day. Note – lavender can help soothe hyperactive stress but if there’s depression showing itself as sleepiness and apathy, then lavender is NOT the oil to use. Instead try rose for balance or citrus for uplift.

Rose geranium: balances emotions, calms and uplifts, so great for interviews and anyone who ‘yo-yos’ mood-wise – hormonal shifts anyone?

Grapefruit and sharp citrus: is refreshing, antiseptic, stimulating – a perfect start to the day.

Petitgrain: is uplifting, anti-inflammatory and good for exhaustion.

Ambergris is one of the most prized and valuable raw materials in perfumery. It is also produced from the vomit of Sperm whales –who discovered that then? n

Melt

B ackridge Farm

Waddington BB7 3LQ 01200 443377

www.themeltco.com

The use of essential oils to help enhance the good parts of our lives and balance out some of the more negative aspects, continues to grow

YOUR FRAGRANCES CAN HELP YOU CLOSE THE DOOR ON WORK AND ESTABLISH A MORE RELAXING ENVIRONMENT

GLOWING SKIN IS ALWAYS IN: BRIDAL EDIT

The foundation of a glowing, flawless look starts with healthy skin

Afavourite of red-carpet celebrities, The Doctor & Company clinic in Whalley can create a bespoke skincare and treatment package in the run-up to your big day.

These popular and effective pre-wedding treatments will get your skin in tip-top condition, so you look and feel your best:

• Forma: A radiofrequency treatment, which is long-lasting and non-invasive. Radio frequency stimulates the formation of new collagen while improving skin elasticity. The energy is capable of targeting deeper layers of the skin while being a pain-free treatment along with zero downtime. This has been a really popular

treatment for the clinic’s celebrity clients looking for a quick lift before a big event. A course of six, one each week, leading up to the wedding, is recommended.

• AquaPure: This popular treatment is beneficial for most skin types, even sensitive skin as it is fully customisable to each individual’s skin concerns. It targets uneven skin tone, congested pores, excess oil, dehydrated skin, fine lines and wrinkles. It boosts collagen production to leave the skin clean, refreshed, brighter and plumper. Results can be seen after one treatment.

• Dermal filler: From profile balancing to anti-ageing, discrete efficient injections can leave you looking more confident and a great version of you on those candid images.

Consultations and advice regarding pre-wedding treatment is essential. All skin consultations at The Doctor & Company start with digital imagery using a specialist, high-tech skin scanner. This shows exactly what your overall skin health is like beneath the surface. From there, Dr Natalie and her team of experts can assess your skin concerns and advise on different treatment options suitable for your personal needs. n

GLITTERING VIP EVENING

The Doctor & Company opened their doors to around 50 VIPs, made up of their loyal patients last month to celebrate not only the launch of two new treatments, but also to celebrate their two-year anniversary in Whalley.

The clinic is headed up by Dr Natalie Walsh, MbCHb, who also holds clinics in Harley Street, London and Manchester. She began the evening by introducing two new treatments, Lyft & Lite and EyeTite, alongside a demonstration of injectables for a full-face rejuvenation.

Charlotte demonstrated the clinic’s Morpheus8 treatment, answered questions and helped

The Doctor & Company 85 King Street, Whalley BB7 9SW 01200 871227

hello@drnatalie.co.uk

thedoctorandcompany

calm any nerves about the treatment. Kim discussed skincare and new products that will help enhance patients’ skin health. Alongside this champagne and sushi from Hitchens Kitchen was served. Everyone received personalised gift bags, alongside our SPF toiletry bags, a product sample and some goodies from local businesses, including Delilah Chloe and Canax.

BUILDING ON FIRM FOUNDATIONS

Dr Khurrum Hussain is one of just five periodontal specialists in the North West – and he has chosen Ribble Valley based Renovo Dental as his referral clinic.

Photography: Sarah Valentine

Seeking specialist dental treatment, patients throughout the UK travel to Ribble Valley-based Renovo Dental, where there is a top team of dental specialists and general practitioners working with some of the very latest state-of-the-art technology.

As part of the team, Dr Khurrum Hussain is one of just 350 periodontal specialists working in the UK – 220 of those being registered in and around central London.

“Working as part of a multi-skilled team with the same passion really is a dream come true. It takes the planning and patient treatment quality to a whole new level,” says Dr Hussain, who completed his training in periodontology at the globally-renowned Eastman Dental Institute at University College London.

“The institute accepts just four people each year, one from the UK one from Europe and the other two internationally. It was an offer I couldn’t refuse,” he explains.

Graduating from the institute in 2016, Khurrum returned to his roots in the North West, teaching periodontology to post-graduates at Manchester University and using his skillset working privately for BUPA.

As a periodontal specialist, he deals with gum disease and the soft tissue surrounding the palate, degenerating bone issues and failing implants.

He is specially trained in the placement, maintenance and repair of dental implants.

“My ethos is not just to treat patients with periodontal challenges, but I aim to work together to educate and motivate them and I have had excellent results with this approach.

“At Renovo we don’t rush in, we view everything in a calculated way. We offer the latest techniques for diagnosing and treating periodontal disease and are also trained in performing cosmetic periodontal procedures.

“Our gums are very much part of our smile

and they are the foundations on which we work. Our aim is to get gum tissue and bones strong and healthy before we carry out any further work.”

Poorly managed diabetes, smoking or inherited genetics can lead to susceptibility to advanced gum disease – and at Renovo Dental, Khurrum can advise on the best techniques and treatment to overcome the problem.

Treatment of advanced gum disease may require dental surgery, such as:

Soft tissue grafts

To replace lost gum tissue due to recession –a small amount of tissue from the roof of the mouth or using tissue from another donor

Before Left: Pre soft tissue grafting

After Right: Post soft tissue grafting

Procedure time 90 minutes – one visit

source and attaching it to the affected site can help reduce further gum recession, cover exposed roots and give your teeth an improved aesthetic. (As illustrated by the gum graft procedure carried out by Dr Khurrum Hussain in the clinical images above).

Bone grafting

This procedure is performed when periodontitis has destroyed the bone surrounding your tooth root. The graft may be composed of small fragments of your own bone, or the bone may be synthetic or donated. The bone graft helps prevent tooth loss by holding your tooth in place. It also serves as a platform for the regrowth of natural bone.

special gel to a diseased tooth root. This gel contains the same proteins found in developing tooth enamel and stimulates the growth of healthy bone and tissue.

“There is often a general lack of awareness of what can be done in terms of the latest techniques, treatments and technology. Too often patients are told that the treatment for gum disease and bone loss is not possible. Yes, it is more complex, impossible it is not. That depends on the skillset of the team carrying out the treatment,” explains Dr Khurrum.

Guided tissue regeneration

This allows the regrowth of bone that was destroyed by bacteria. In one approach, a special piece of biocompatible fabric is placed between existing bone and your tooth. The material prevents unwanted tissue from entering the healing area, allowing bone to grow back instead.

Tissue-stimulating proteins

Another technique involves applying a

As a new clinic, Renovo has invested in all the latest digital technology dentistry has to offer, including a state-of-the-art CT scanner which allows the team to plan and perform very precise implant surgery. This CT-guided surgery for implants is accurate, more safe and comfortable and results in faster healing.

Since launching Renovo Dental, the team’s reputation has spread through word of mouth: “We are very fortunate in what we do and what we have here, and we are all passionate and very dedicated. Renovo is much bigger than a group of individuals – it is all about our patients, changing mindsets and attitudes and giving them support and confidence by providing outstanding dentistry.” n

Renovo Dental

Pendle House, Clitheroe

Chatburn BB7 4JY

01200 441000

hello@renovodental.co.uk

@renovodental

Road

OUR AIM IS TO GET GUM TISSUE AND BONES STRONG AND HEALTHY BEFORE WE CARRY OUT ANY FURTHER WORK

HIDDEN GEM

Laura Wells discovers a secret, speakeasy-style hideaway featuring world-class performers and live music.

Photography: Swirly Magnolia

An exclusive live cabaret lounge has opened its doors in the quiet market town of Clitheroe, welcoming visitors to a decadent spectacle of world-class aerial acts, fire performers, professional dancers, live music and more.

Part of The Hideaway Cabaret’s unique charm is its slightly surreal nature. As you step through the heavy velvet entrance curtain into the atmospheric lounge, it gives off the vibe of a prohibition speakeasy bar –and it’s easy to forget you’re on an unassuming industrial estate just near Tesco.

Seated at elegantly draped tables around the performance area and dance floor, the audience is a mixed affair – young couples on a date night with a difference, older couples soaking up the music and the atmosphere, family groups and even hen parties enjoying a sophisticated celebration of sauciness.

Entry is by ticket only and guests bring their own bottles – corkage on the night includes glasses, ice, water, ice buckets and attentive staff.

Owner Yvette Mauback-Lang welcomes each group and personally shows them to their table, disappearing into the dressing room only to re-emerge a few acts later for an unexpected performance complete with Dirty Dancing-esque lifts.

Throughout the evening, there are five show sets with a variety of dance and acrobatic acts – both male and female – accompanied

by a talented live vocalist. And between each set, revellers have the opportunity to take to the dance floor, with a polite warning not to try the trapeze!

The show was described by one reviewer as, ‘The kind of entertainment the Ribble Valley has been missing for so long’ – and it’s clear that the performers are far from amateur.

Yvette explains: “We held auditions that attracted some really talented dancers and some of the team have worked for me before, so I already knew they would meet my very exacting standards. I’ve been performing professionally since I was 16 and it’s taken me all over the world.”

in native Hungary, Zoltan found that he enjoyed the fun and freedom of ‘show business’ far more than the strict regime of competitive gymnastics. A move to Las Vegas came next, which saw him performing nightly with the prestigious Cirque du Soleil at The Bellagio.

When the couple decided to start a family, they put down more permanent roots in the UK.

Now settled in the Ribble Valley, they have a little boy and continue to manage productions at popular destinations like Alton Towers. Zoltan promotes and shares his love of gymnastics through his coaching business Flip Side Fitness. He also stars alongside Yvette in the cabaret show.

Yvette had the idea for hosting The Hideaway Cabaret at Flip Side, as another creative outlet for their skills without having to tour so far from home. “I wanted to bring an international standard of entertainment to a local audience –a show full of global acts you might not expect to see outside Paris or London. We’ve brought a bit of sexiness and city glitz to the Ribble Valley, and I’m really proud of how it’s been received.

“Despite the logistical challenges, it’s

YVETTE HAS PERFORMED ICE SHOWS AT THE BAHRAIN GRAND PRIX, ON A BEACH IN THE MALDIVES AND AT RED BULL’S F1 END OF SEASON PARTY WHERE GARY BARLOW HEADLINED

definitely been worth it. The atmosphere of each cabaret show has a unique buzz and the feedback has been phenomenal.”

Having experienced The Hideaway Cabaret’s sultry music, moody lighting and peacock feather décor, it can be somewhat of a surprise to step into the bright and fun-filled gymnastics studio in daylight hours.

Today, toddlers bounce on an enormous trampoline and practice their tumbling skills with ‘Coach Zoli’.

Yvette set up her own production company, Ice Glitz productions, in 2011 and has performed ice shows in Abu Dhabi, at the Bahrain Grand Prix, on a beach in the Maldives, at Red Bull’s F1 end of season party where Gary Barlow headlined, and dripping with jewellery for a Swarovski event, at London’s Natural History Museum.

She met husband Zoltan (Zoli to his friends) while they were performing ice and stunt shows respectively at a German theme park. As former National Gymnastics Champion

Yvette smiles as she watches: “The kids love Zoli, and they get completely immersed in the atmosphere here. They just have fun from the minute they come in the door until the moment they leave.”

I’d argue you could say the same thing about the cabaret audience.

The Hideaway Cabaret is an almostmonthly exclusive cabaret event that books up quickly. n

For tickets go to: iceglitzproductions.com

thehideawaycabaret.co.uk

@TheHideawayCabaret

Photography: Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock.com

Summer is virtually upon us as we enter our busiest period across the estate. Our magical glamping village is now open for a few months. The walled gardens and the heated outdoor pool have been readied for our guests and renovation work has largely been completed in the cottages and lodges. We have undertaken some essential forestry work down the main drive, which has removed some disease and opened up some lost views and ancient trees. Fingers crossed we have a busy and sunny few months.

I am excited to announce that we have decided to release three second-hand lodges for sale. We rarely sell second-hand lodges but these lodges are surrounded by other owners with westerly facing views. Amber and I have decided to create an exclusive owners only private area of the park which will look and feel different in time. The prices range from £150k to £200k. We also have a spectacular brand new showhome available for sale priced at £250k, which is

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

currently on site and ready to view. If you are interested in a private tour, please contact Charlie on charlie@gisburneparkestate.co.uk

We have recently renovated some of the vegetable gardens in the walled area of the mansion house and planted them up with

I AM EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE THAT WE HAVE DECIDED TO RELEASE THREE SECOND-HAND LODGES FOR SALE AND WE ALSO HAVE A SPECTACULAR BRAND NEW SHOWHOME AVAILABLE

Hindelinis Restaurant & Bar is thriving and we are excited to welcome new head chef John Dawson to the team. On Saturday our resident DJ kicked off the opening of our outdoor garden area playing from 3pm to 9pm. The weather was kind and the naked tipi wrapped with fairy lights and the top hat tent looked magical. The plan is that we will have a DJ playing every Saturday (hopefully outside) through the afternoon and evening.

a huge array of fruit and veg. All this organic produce will be making its way to Hindelinis, so this month we are excited to be able to serve genuine home-grown dishes. We are already enjoying using the endless supply of wild garlic – also on the menu is Gisburne Park lamb and organic (Sika) venison.

Please join us on Sunday 4th June, 11am-3pm or Tuesday 6th June, 6pm-8pm for our summer wedding fair. The venue will be

SUMMER WEDDING FAIR

Sunday 4th June, 11am-3pm Tuesday 6th June, 6pm-8pm

Please check our website for availability

all dressed up and ready for personal tours. Please email or check our website for availability. At the same time, behind the scenes a lot of work is going on regards a planning application for the mansion house. I will update everyone in more detail in next month’s issue or follow our Instagram @gisburneparkestate for the latest news. n

Gisburne Park Estate Mill Lane

Gisburn BB7 4LP 01200 415300

gisburneparkestate.co.uk

@hindelinis @ribblesdalepark

@gisburneparkestate

“If you follow our True Garden journey, you will have a garden for life. We will show you how to transform your space by choosing the right plants, the correct positioning and how to plant them.

IT’S NOT ABOUT PLANTING FOR TOMORROW, IT’S ABOUT PLANTING FOR FOREVER

“It is our biggest space to date at Tatton and we are very excited about it.”

Back at Holden Clough and the growers are keeping a close eye on the thousands of plants that will feature in the live True Garden display. And, mirroring this physical journey at Tatton, is a soon-to-be launched new, online, virtual True Garden experience that enables visitors to key in details of their garden space, soil type and preferences, and get online

CREATE YOUR TRUE GARDEN

Award-winning Holden Clough is all set for its biggest display yet at the RHS Flower Show Tatton Park

With a heritage that dates back to 1927, Holden Clough

Nursery continues to naturally evolve in the 21st century. Today owner John Foley is progressing the prestigious legacy left behind by original founder Richard MilneRedhead. Having won nine consecutive Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) gold medals since 2013, Holden Clough has been named as RHS Master Grower 2023 – an unrivalled accolade that puts the nursery at the pinnacle of UK growers.

“It is a very proud moment for us – it is a great accreditation,” says John, who runs the nursery with wife Kate. “It’s taken a lot of hard work, but it is an absolute privilege to be named as Master Grower.”

As a result of the RHS Master Grower accolade, Holden Clough’s positioning will be elevated to star status at the next Tatton Park Flower Show in July when the team will take centre stage in the main marquee with a hefty 225 square metre space. Visitors will be taken on a journey through Holden Clough’s True Garden – a stunning step-bystep experience showing how home gardeners can create a beautiful garden from start to finish, by measured consideration of layout and careful choice of hardy plants that will provide seasonal interest all year round.

ALL SET FOR SUMMER…

‘All Things Garden Since 1927’

Holden Clough is now fully stocked with bedding plants, shrubs, trees and herbs that are beautifully displayed in a stunning rural setting, where visitors can meander through the delightful pathways. Stop for refreshment in the peaceful Reading Room or visit the Glasshouse for unique, vintage home and gardens accessories.

recommendations for plans, plants, positioning and planting: “We want online visitors to understand the journey and what the basis is for a True Garden,” says John.

“It is all about experience and knowledge using the Holden Clough formula. It’s not about planting for tomorrow, it’s about planting for forever.” n

Monday - Saturday 9am till 5pm

Sunday 10.30am till 4.30pm (Browsing from 9am)

“Whether it’s a cottage, shady, white or wildlife garden, the choice of plants needs to add character, shape and texture. If the approach is haphazard, it will never work,” explains John.

TATTON PARK FLOWER SHOW

Wednesday 19th July – Sunday 23rd July

Watch out! Holden Clough could feature on BBC Gardener’s World rhs.org.uk

Holden Clough Nurseries

Holden, Bolton-by-Bowland, Clitheroe BB7 4PF 01200 447615

holdenclough.com

Open 7 days a week 9am till 5pm Chosen

Horse and Pony Care and Quiz competitions for Area 4 were hosted by the Isle of Man Pony Club, so 10 members had a great time staying over there and having fun with Pony Club friends.

Both the Winter and Summer Championships often see members competing for the club at national level, which usually requires a fair amount of travelling. It all pays off in the end, the experience of being away with your horse can be so exciting, especially if you’ve never done it before.

Personally, I went to the Championships

IN THE SADDLE

With the eventing season about to begin, Chipping Pony Club members are busy working on flatwork and show jumping, writes Megan Conlon. Photography: SMR Photography

This month, Chipping Pony Club member, Poppy, took part in the SEIB Search for a Star competition. This competition is open to all Pony Club members under the age of 10, with an open class for older members too.

There is a Lead Rein and First Ridden class as well as this open class and the goal is to find the perfect Pony Club pony!

The ideal winner must be an all-rounder who can be used for all Pony Club activities, such as flatwork and mounted games among others. It must also have good conformation (the build of the horse/pony must be both appealing and practical) it must have an ‘excellent way of going’ as well as a ‘fabulous temperament’.

Any type of horse or pony can compete, as long as they are athletic enough to be an all-rounder while also being ‘correct’ enough to be a show horse and the winner qualifies for Your Horse Live.

Our member, Poppy, did exceedingly well in this and finished fourth overall, with only a cut corner losing her marks! Poppy attends all our activities and with her pony has been part of our mounted games team and dressage team, showing what an all-rounder her pony is. Poppy is going to have another go at the competition later in the year.

Pony Club can offer members so many experiences like this and so many opportunities to thrive and achieve with

their equine friends. Chipping Pony Club can take our members far. We have had several trips over the last few years, which stay with members for years to come.

For example, a few years ago the Area

a couple of years ago for the eventing and show jumping and had so much fun staying in a horsebox with my mum and looking after my horse in this completely new environment. There is so much going on at these events that every moment is a memory – watching the other classes or walking a cross country course – and the atmosphere has this buzz of friendly competitiveness.

But to get to these events, hard work must be done at home. We have been continuing our flatwork and show jumping training sessions throughout this month and hopefully in the summer these valuable lessons will pay off! With the eventing season right around the corner, now more than ever is the most important time to become one with your horse or pony and find out how they tick. 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

and William, quite sensibly, got her rolling early as they approached the dip.

The response was fairly immediate as Soprano began to dominate and once she hit the rising ground, it was a case of how far she was going to win by. What an amazing feeling!

The second filly, Midnight Affair, had trouble in running before staying on well, but I don’t think this takes anything away from the manner in which our filly won, which was electric to say the least.

SOPRANO HITS ALL THE RIGHT NOTES

Jason Fildes reflects on a fantastic win by Highclere’s two-year-old filly Soprano earlier this month

Wow! What a fantastic debut our two-year-old filly Soprano made at Newmarket last week, stretching clear up the hill to win by one-and-three-quarter lengths.

Soprano took the whole experience of race day in her stride. She was walking round as quiet as a lamb in the pre-parade and then perked up nicely once the saddle had been fitted.

She started strong favourite, which would have been because there was plenty of stable confidence behind her, but trainer George Boughey had warned that the five-furlong might be too short for her. As it turned out she had plenty of pace to be wherever jockey William Buick wanted her and although she slightly missed the break, she was soon well on terms. She quickly settled into a rhythm

WHEN YOU HAVE A TWO-YEAR-OLD WIN SO DECISIVELY AND ACT SO PROFESSIONALLY IN EARLY MAY, IT CAN MEAN ONLY ONE THING AND THAT IS WE ALMOST CERTAINLY HAVE A ROYAL ASCOT FILLY ON OUR HANDS!

After the race, William was very complimentary, saying: “She’s very smart. She did everything right.” William had a hard job pulling her up as she galloped off up the hill and I think it’s highly likely we will be seeing her over six furlongs next time. When you have a two-year-old win so decisively and act so professionally in early May, it can mean only one thing and that is we almost certainly have a Royal Ascot filly on our hands! n

Highclere – Jason Fildes

01200 444622

07721 311778

jason@highclere.co.uk

highclereracing.co.uk

EXPERIENCE EVERYTHING

luxury, wellbeing and relaxation at its heart.

Everything Retreat, quite literally, offers everything, as Louise explains: “I wanted to create a place where people could relax, go for walks, discover fabulous food and enjoy the peace and tranquility of a wellness retreat.

“I also wanted to support local businesses along the way, collaborating with artisan makers, restaurants and services – so that’s why it’s called Everything Retreat!”

When entrepreneur Louise Monk had a vision for her wellness retreat, little did she know it would attract visitors from all over the UK to the Ribble Valley.

Three years later she has well and truly captured the essence of that vision with a stunning countryside hideaway that has

Tucked away in the rolling rural countryside of the Ribble Valley, Everything Retreat really is a haven where the outside world seems to grind to a slow, quiet halt. As you draw up to the huge electronic gates that glide silently open, guests know they are set for a very special experience.

Within the grounds, with blossom trees swaying in the summer breeze and abundant wildlife, you are greeted at the reception that is first port of call for arriving guests, who as they check-in, will find themselves with a chilled welcome drink in hand.

Since the official launch of the retreat last year – an event attended by local dignitaries

A perfect getaway to restore and re-connect, the luxurious Everything Retreat really needs to be seen to be appreciated.

Photography Kirsten Platt

and VIPs – Everything has been attracting visitors across the length and breadth of the country: “We have people coming from London and even Cornwall – you can’t get much further than that,” says Louise.

“We are thrilled to be able to attract visitors here to see the sights and sounds of the Ribble Valley. We have so much to offer in terms of walks and wildlife, attractions such as Clitheroe Castle and Holmes Mill and restaurants who we have great relationships with, such as Yu and Northcote.”

WHETHER YOU’VE SPENT THE DAY HIKING IN THE HILLS OR ON AN ORGANISED RETREAT FOCUSING ON YOGA OR WELLBEING IN THE WORKPLACE, EVERYTHING RETREAT WILL ENSURE YOUR STAY IS PERFECT

It’s been an interesting and inspirational journey for Louise, who is passionate about the retreat’s wellbeing and wellness credentials. Whether that’s attending a yoga-focused break run by retreat leaders, creating wellness in the workplace via a themed retreat or just a private visit where guests can revitalise and re-connect in a quiet place, Louise and her team will ensure you have – everything!

boards along with afternoon tea. But as the summer approaches there will be BBQ and pizza evenings for guests.

Accommodation at Everything Retreat reflects the calm and quiet countryside surroundings with a series of stunning lodges nestling around a pond overlooking the rolling hills of the valley.

THE RETREAT HAS BEEN ATTRACTING VISITORS TO THE RIBBLE VALLEY FROM ALL OVER THE COUNTRY. WE HAVE PEOPLE COMING FROM LONDON AND CORNWALL

reflect on their day as dusk falls.

Whether you’ve spent the day exploring the Ribble Valley, hiking in the hills or on an organised retreat focusing on yoga and exercise or wellbeing in the workplace, Everything Retreat will ensure your stay is perfect. n

If you are interested in organising and leading a retreat, or if you’re a business keen to keep your workforce well to optimise output, please contact Louise. In the next issue there will be more about how you as a private individual or corporate client, can use the space at the Everything Retreat.

“Retreat leaders and guests can create whatever they want – they have the freedom to use the space as they wish,” says Louise.

From exercise classes to electric biking, wreath-making to wine-tasting, Everything Retreat is open-minded as to how potential visitors can use the space, which now incorporates the Balance Bar, where guests can get together and relax: “As Everything Retreat is very much about wellbeing, our ethos is ensuring that life is all about balance – hence the Balance Bar.”

At the moment the bar serves drinks and light-bites including cheese and charcuterie

There is a unique collection of themed lodges alongside the retreat’s beautiful Signature lodges, all featuring luxurious interiors with log burner and outdoor hot tubs where guests can sip a sundowner and

EVERYTHING retreat

Everything Retreat Primrose Hill, Primrose Lane Mellor BB2 7EQ 01254 965095

hello@everything-retreat.com

everything-retreat.com

everythingretreat

RibbleValley

HOME TRUTHS

The Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla has dominated the last few weeks. While we were all deeply saddened by the passing of the late Queen, this month has been a time of rejoicing and celebration.

I was privileged to be a witness at the accession of King Charles in September, but I was truly honoured to meet the King and Queen when they both visited Westminster Hall just a few days before the Coronation.

The King was on glorious top form. When I spoke to him, he beamed at me when I told him I would be in the Chair of the Commons later that day trying to keep order. He teased, asking me to say the words, ‘Order, order!’ and roared with laughter as I said them.

The Queen was also in a happy mood as I informed her that I had been in the Commons for 31 years, but I was a rookie compared to some.

I had several functions just before the big day including giving a speech welcoming the President of Vietnam to the UK. This was really daunting as on my lunch table were three Cabinet Ministers and Sir Tony Blair and Cherie.

Another event had me sandwiched between the Spanish and Italian ambassadors both of whom were getting ready to welcome their Heads of State, the King of Spain and the President of Italy.

For 48 hours London saw gridlocked roads around Whitehall, giving way to police on motorbikes blue-lighting dignitaries to Downing Street, the Foreign Office and Buckingham Palace.

I gave a speech at the Savile Club following an address by the former High Commissioner to the UK from Australia, George Brandis. It was the largest gathering of Australians in London to celebrate what was the crowning of their monarch and it was full of fun as they sang three verses of God Save the King.

The day itself was just simply incredible. Sadly, I was not lucky enough to be in the Abbey but a number of us had places outside the House of

Ribble Valley MP Nigel Evans gives a speech welcoming the President of Vietnam at a lunch attended by Sir Tony Blair and gets to meet the new King and Queen at Westminster Hall

Commons and witnessed the supremely professional armed forces, with the King and Queen waving to the assembled crowds, some of whom had slept out for over 48 hours.

Despite the rain the police and troops did us all proud in simply doing their duty to King, Queen and country. I want to put on record my thanks to all of them that marched in procession, including my former researcher and now a naval man, Jack Buller. Well done Jack and what a memory to have of such a great day!

I bumped into Sir Bryn Terfel the night before the Coronation and asked him when he would be performing and in deep Welsh vowels he beamed: “I am second on.” He was amazing at the service and at the Windsor concert along with Andrea Bocelli.

I attended my Pendleton street party the day after, which was bathed in sun. Our long table was packed with food and people of all ages. This was the nation coming together and giving three cheers to our King and Queen and on behalf of all my constituents may I wish them a happy and glorious reign! n

SUMMER STAYCATIONS

with

An award-winning collection of hospitality venues located across the Ribble Valley, Lune Valley and the Yorkshire Dales.

Whether you are looking for a town centre escape or a room with a view amongst the rolling hills of the beautiful UK countryside we have a hotel for you!

CHARITY FOCUS

Live Ribble Valley takes a look at the many and varied charity projects that are taking place in towns and villages across the region

If you have any charity news please contact: jan.woolley@live-magazines.co.uk

RIBBLE VALLEY RIDE

The Ribble Valley Ride is back for 2023, with three routes for all abilities starting in Clitheroe on Sunday 11th June. This year, the ride returns with an easy 25-mile route, a challenging 60-mile route and the classic 100-mile route taking in some of the best hill climbs in Lancashire and Yorkshire.

The last Ribble Valley Ride raised £5,800 for three charities, Rosemere Cancer Foundation, Prostate Cancer UK and Rotary Great Britain and Ireland and the organisers from Accrington and Clitheroe Rotary Clubs are hoping to increase the total this year.

The 25-mile Challenge route is a fabulous ride through idyllic Ribble Valley scenery, while the 60-mile Expert is a tough, hilly ride through the Trough of Bowland and upper Ribble Valley. The Elite route goes even further, taking the high road to the pretty town of Hawes before returning via the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct.

This year’s ride has received generous backing from a number of local sponsors, including Hanson Cement and Rufus Carr.

Chip timing and full classified results will be available to all riders, although the ride is absolutely non-competitive, and if cyclists wish to shorten their ride, they have ample opportunity to do so.

Event founder Bill Honeywell, from Clitheroe Rotary Club said: “Everyone is welcome to participate in the Ribble Valley Ride. It isn’t just for fitness enthusiasts and road racers – it’s a community ride raising important funds for local charities.

“We’re aiming to give all participants an excellent-value day out on the bike and we are keen to encourage a sense of camaraderie, where all riders feel they are supported and appreciated.”

All three routes will be signed and marshalled, with regular food and hydration stops along the way. Technical back-up is also available and food and drinks are included in the entry fees, which are: 25 miles: £20, 60 miles: £25, 100 miles: £30.

Organisers are also offering a discounted ‘family’ ticket to encourage active families to take part together.

To enter online and for more details go to: ribblevalleyride.org

‘MARATHON BOY’ AIMS TO RAISE £10K

A Ribble Valley man is tackling his first ever marathon in memory of his stepdad who sadly passed away from cancer. Klark Robinson-Carlin, from Balderstone, will take on the 26.2-mile Edinburgh Marathon for Macmillan Cancer Support. Marathon Boy (Klark’s family nickname) is aiming to raise £10,000 for the charity. The 29-year-old was motivated to run the marathon after his stepdad, Chris Taylor, passed away in September last year, and also in memory of his uncle Stewart, who passed away the month before.

Chris was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2009, which he lived with for 13 years, while Stewart, passed away with pneumonia after dealing with other health issues.

So far, Klark has raised £4,471 towards his £10k target for Macmillan, a charity which helps support people affected by cancer.

Klark, who works for the family business founded by his stepdad, said:

“I am running this marathon in memory of two amazing human beings –my stepdad Chris and my uncle Stewart who sadly died within a month of each other. They would both say that you should do it, not because it is easy, but because it is hard.”

Klark has been in training for several months and is being supported by fellow Lancashire lad, Callum Townsend, a firefighter who works with Lancashire Fire and Rescue, who is his running coach from Peak Performance Coaching.

To support Klark visit: justgiving.com/fundraising/klark-robinson-carlin2023

WHO GETS THE ENGAGEMENT RING?

A common question from parties who are separating is, who owns the engagement ring or other gifts made throughout the marriage?

Adrienne Baker of Forbes gives her expert advice

the engagement was broken off. The recipient would then be required to return the ring. In reality, no romantic proposal is going to follow with: “If we ever split up, the ring will need to be returned to me.” Such a situation is more likely to arise if the engagement ring was a family heirloom.

value of other assets, the more likely it is to be taken into account. Generally, however, if the parties have valuable belongings, their other assets are usually significant enough for the Court to ignore such items. Parties will not usually be expected to give up or sell sentimental items in order to meet their needs and normally would be left to agree who should keep what.

If an engaged couple separate before their marriage is made legal, the law dealing with the engagement ring is contained within the Law Reform (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1970 which says it shall be presumed that the engagement ring is an absolute gift. This means the party with the ring in their possession has no obligation to return it if the wedding doesn’t take place. The law takes no account of who broke off the engagement or who may be at fault. However, this presumption can be rebutted if there was a condition (either expressed or implied) that the ring would be returned if

If parties were married and then subsequently separate, the rules are very similar. A party cannot seek the return of a gift made to their spouse unless it was subject to a condition. The position with married couples differs slightly as they will be under an obligation within financial proceedings on divorce, to disclose all personal belongings exceeding £500 in value. This includes any jewellery, cars, paintings, furniture or electrical items.

These items can be seen as a financial resource of the parties. The greater the value of the item as compared to the total overall

It is therefore the case that personal belongings generally stay where they are on divorce, unless there are special circumstances. If gifts have been made, it is extremely difficult to undo them. If a party wishes to protect certain valuable or heirloom items, then consideration should be given to a pre or post nuptial agreement. This document could expressly set out the intention and any condition of a party gifting any valuable item and would avoid any future disputes in the future. An alternative document for engaged couples could be a cohabitation agreement. n

If there is any doubt on your position, it is always advised to seek specialist legal advice. To speak to a Family Lawyer contact Adrienne Baker on 01254 580 000 or email: adrienne.baker@forbessolicitors.co.uk

IT IS THEREFORE THE CASE THAT PERSONAL BELONGINGS GENERALLY STAY WHERE THEY ARE ON DIVORCE, UNLESS THERE ARE SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES

FAB DAD!

Historically, Father’s Day is a day to honour our dads and celebrate fatherhood, paternal bonds and their influence in society.

We all probably remember one or two things our dads helped us with as we were growing up, whether it was teaching you to ride a bike, sitting through endless school plays or helping with homework. Whatever it was, sometimes we don’t always appreciate what they did for us until we are grown up ourselves with children of our own. So, what better way to say thank you than treating him to something special for Father’s Day.

Sometimes it’s not just about the material gifts you get, but about spending time with your dad. So, look for activities you can do together, where you can both create memories. There are lots of experience days that offer something different.

If he’s into sport, many football clubs offer tours of their stadiums. A behind the scenes look around his favourite club could be the perfect gift.

How about tickets to a show, open air theatre, outdoor cinema screening, comedy club or a sporting event? There’s always plenty going on, just check out the local what’s on guides.

If the weather is nice, you could do something as simple as taking your dad for a walk in the park or countryside, followed by a pint and a pub lunch. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to bring the whole family together. Why not organise a family games day, filled with traditional games such as Monopoly, Charades or Twister? It could take you all back on a nostalgic journey of your childhood. Whatever you decide to do, give your dad an experience that he’ll always treasure. n

This year, Father’s Day falls on 18th June so let’s celebrate and make his day extra special

The Preston City Mela at Moor Park on 17th June celebrates South Asian arts, culture and tradition with performances, traditional music and workshops. Windrush 75 Festival, on 18th June at Avenham Park, celebrates the contributions of the Windrush generation to British society.

ALL-ROUND ENTERTAINMENT

Preston City Centre is set to come alive with a packed calendar of events this year. From festivals to celebrations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy

The annual Caribbean Carnival kicks off the festivities on 27th and 28th May at Moor Park, Preston, featuring a vibrant procession, stunning costumes, live music and dancing. Jazz lovers can look forward to Young Jazz in the Square and Jazzin’ the Park, both taking place in Winckley Square on the 3rd and 10th June.

Armed Forces Day on 24th June in the City Centre is a day of remembrance and respect for Preston’s serving soldiers and their families. The Preston City Wrestling Showcase on 19th August at the Flag Market promises a captivating display of strength and aerial acrobatics.

Encounter Festival returns from 15th to 17th September, celebrating the diverse

cultural offer of Lancashire with high-quality arts and performances. Finally, on 23rd September, head to the Flag Market and support Preston’s LGBTQIA+ community at Preston Pride, featuring fabulous acts, entertainment and stalls.

Join Prestonians and visitors alike at these fantastic events throughout 2023 showcasing the city’s community, culture and diversity. n

visitpreston.com

@visitprestonlancs

@visitpreston

Make Memories That Last A Lifetime

Father’s Day Dining

Celebrate with a dining experience to remember at The View Restaurant. Local produce, exemplary service with unrivalled views of the Dales.

Gift Experiences

For the man who has everything. Make memories that last a lifetime with a Coniston Gift Experience.

Choose from:

Shooting or Archery competition or take to the waters with Fly Fishing on The Coniston Estate.

Experiences available from £25.00 Per Person

Dine alfresco and enjoy the Spring sunshine or cosy up by the roaring fire if the weather is not so fine.

Sunday 18 June | All Day Dining 12-9pm Book online at theconistonhotel.com

Dining Experiences | Spa Treatments For Him Land Rover Experience | Clay Pigeon Shooting Fishing | Archery | Short Breaks

Buy online at theconistonhotel.com

RAISING AWARENESS

A glittering charity evening recently raised substantial funding for Prostate Cancer UK – thanks to the support of local entrepreneurs and international menswear brands

Ahugely successful charity event organised by Scruples 1984 in Barrowford has raised more than £14,000 for Prostate Cancer UK.

In a bid to raise more awareness of the charity, luxury menswear store Scruples hosted the event at Will’s Wine Bar and Kitchen located nearby.

The charity was chosen after Scruples’ founder Stephen Collins was diagnosed with prostate cancer last year. Following successful treatment Stephen, along with store manager Tom Orrell, decided to stage the fund-raiser, as Tom explains: “As a menswear shop, we wanted to make people aware of the charity and we wanted to give something back following Stephen’s treatment at the end of last year.

“It’s a wonderful charity and people have been unbelievably generous.”

The ticketed event, which was extremely well attended, included a welcome drink, raffle ticket and a £250 voucher towards a made-tomeasure garment from Scruples 1984.

THE ATMOSPHERE AT WILL’S BAR WAS PERFECT –THE EVENING WAS A ROARING SUCCESS AND WE WANT TO SAY A HUGE THANK-YOU TO EVERYONE WHO CONTRIBUTED TO THE EVENT!

A saxophonist greeted guests on their arrival to Will’s Bar, setting the scene for what turned out to be a lively, well-supported evening.

Host Tom introduced a raffle with 25 prizes that included vouchers for Yu Copster Green, a visit to Crowood and generous vouchers

from Scruples’ top designer labels including Paul & Shark, Tramarossa, Loake, MACKAGE and Vilebrequin.

A silent auction followed when guests were able to bid for experiences including an all-expenses paid box for the day to watch Burnley FC play Manchester City, a two-piece made-to-measure jacket from Scruples’ in-house luxury tailoring brand, a made-tomeasure suit by Scruples, dinner at the Three Millstones, a two-person Top Gun experience, a one-night stay at Gilpin Hotel and Lake House, dinner at the Michelinstarred White Horse, a wine hamper from the Whalley Wine Shop and a £1600 voucher by Canali tailoring.

“The support we got from our customers and suppliers has been amazing,” says Tom. “The atmosphere at Will’s Bar was perfect –the evening was a roaring success and we want to say a huge thank-you to everyone who contributed to the event!” n

scruplesmenswear.co.uk

standard of fairness as a specialist judge would, only without going to court.”

Rosemary has gone further and trained in conducting round-table legal negotiations in which both parties run the negotiations in tandem with their solicitor. In this approach, called ‘Collaborative Law’ the parties commit neither to resort to court, nor to take shelter behind solicitors’ letters. Instead, they agree to negotiate alongside their solicitor, in person, over a series of meetings and to deal with each obstacle that crops up in the talks, using legal advice as they go. Those taking part may include another specialist where necessary, for example a pensions actuary, a mortgage broker or a child development practitioner.

“It is not suitable for every separating couple,” says Rosemary. “This qualification has trained me to identify relationships likely to suit this method, ones that have sufficient flexibility, respect and openness.”

If the parties do not agree on every detail

to that firm and to family law. Earlier this year, Rosemary was approached to join Sarah Bentley’s: “It was both an honour and an opportunity to join a specialist family law firm of the standard of Sarah Bentley Solicitors and to work alongside Eve Brelsford, who had been running the practice following Sarah’s retirement,” says Rosemary.

Rosemary is proud that in England and Wales a body of legal expertise and wisdom has grown up over the years to supply principles and rules for fairness, emulated by some other countries. “We can draw on a body of case-law for family law negotiations.

COLLABORATIVE LAW: THE BENEFITS

Lancashire firm Sarah Bentley Solicitors has recently recruited Rosemary Williams to continue their growth in family law, writes

Gail

Bailey

The long-established Lancashire firm Waddington and Son (Solicitors) Ltd has recently taken over Sarah Bentley Solicitors and are pleased to be supporting the firm to continue with their gold standard specialism in family law cases.

As the practice grows from strength to strength, Sarah Bentley Solicitors has recently appointed Rosemary Williams, who brings with her not only a wealth of experience and wisdom, but also a passion for family law and for helping couples to navigate their separation: “I really feel what we do is worthwhile,” Rosemary explains. “There is a fear that involving a solicitor in a marital break-up can increase conflict. That can happen in some cases but at Sarah Bentley’s we belong to Resolution, the association of family law solicitors that maintains a Code of Practice. It is so important for couples to have someone skilled to negotiate a settlement to the same

and if the negotiations get stuck, they can still use an arbitrator for that issue: “Most couples don’t need that. Their ability to trust, to listen and to understand disagreement will have grown through the process.”

Judge-made law here is very flexible. The law is evolving as societal needs evolve.”

Round-table negotiations are not a quick fix and not always cheaper than applying through the court, Rosemary clarifies: “It depends on the issues involved. We assess the cost before starting. A big gain in collaborative law is that couples can emerge with an intact relationship after the negotiations have concluded. What a gift this can be for their whole set of family relationships!” she exclaims.

“This is something that money cannot buy. But the work the couple invests in the process, is what can achieve it for them.” n

Rosemary first qualified in Dublin, spending five years in commercial law in a large city firm. After re-qualifying in England, she moved to the leading Liverpool firm Cuff where she could use her experience in business assets to support family law, before being invited to lead the family law arm of a multi-branch, high street firm north of Manchester, to work with both legal aid and private clients.

After taking a break from law to raise her own family, during which she volunteered in representing parents at the Special Needs and Disability Tribunal, Rosemary returned

Sarah Bentley Solicitors

1 Mead Way Ribble Court

Padiham BB12 7NG

01282

792808

sarahbentleysolicitors.co.uk

A BIG GAIN IN COLLABORATIVE LAW IS THAT COUPLES CAN EMERGE WITH AN INTACT RELATIONSHIP AFTER THE NEGOTIATIONS HAVE CONCLUDED

THIS QUALIFICATION HAS TRAINED ME TO IDENTIFY RELATIONSHIPS LIKELY TO SUIT THIS METHOD, ONES THAT HAVE SUFFICIENT FLEXIBILITY, RESPECT AND OPENNESS

TEN YEARS ON

Oakdean Cottages luxury holiday lets are celebrating! It’s a decade since they launched and are recent winners of a Lancashire Tourism Award for Best Self-Catering Accommodation

When Ian and Sue Sherrington started their journey ten years ago, they never imagined they would be welcoming visitors to the Ribble Valley from all over the world. Their guest book is full of five star reviews written by guests from Australia, Jordan and Gambia, the USA and Europe too. Visitors have travelled to Whalley from literally everywhere and they come in all shapes and sizes. Be it expats keen to re-sample their old stomping ground, friends and families coming to visit, brides, grooms and their wedding guests or business entrepreneurs, they’ve all called Oakdean Cottages ‘a home from home’.

Why have so many chosen to stay in this delightful, converted piggery, tucked away on Whalley Nab?

Well, the first reason is quite clear, that it is a piggery no more! In 2010, having retired from running multiple businesses together, Ian and Sue wondered if they had the energy to take on the enormous task of designing, building and decorating their dilapidated old sheds into a place for Ribble Valley visitors. Removing retirement from their agenda, it wasn’t long before Ian was bricklaying, plastering and plumbing. They worked together to design every detail and after hard graft and a few heated debates, they officially

opened their doors in 2013. Hodder and Ribble Cottage are two and three-bedroomed in size, each accommodating four to six guests and contemporary in style. They are full of light, space and bursting with life’s little luxuries. There’s a third cottage too – Calder Cottage lovingly referred to as the ‘cosy one’ given its slightly smaller stature.

The cottages’ modern design, bi-fold doors and underfloor heating never fails to impress new guests, but are mod cons enough to grow a successful holiday lets enterprise? Ian and Sue had learnt how to self build but how do you teach yourself hospitality to ensure guests will keep coming back?

The Lancashire welcome

A warm welcome works wonders! Speaking to Ian and Sue today it’s obvious that without any official training, they’ve been led by their own high standards: “We always want to ensure our guests have everything they need to enjoy their stay. Many like to know we’re close by if they need us, but not too close if they don’t,” says Sue. When you add ‘spotlessly clean’ to the list of frequent compliments it didn’t take long for Oakdean Cottages to gain momentum. The guest book grew and those who were kind enough to stay once, kept coming back.

Maintaining self-catering accommodation to such a high standard has taken an incredible amount of work, which has often been recognised. Visit England have awarded Ribble Cottage their coveted five-star self-catering accolade for the past nine years. There have been many local nods and Airbnb Superhost recognition too, but it’s the amount of plentiful and kind reviews that always amaze Ian and Sue. Literally hundreds of them rating the cottages an incredible five stars again and again. It was something Property Manager Anna Davies was keen to shout about when joining Ian and Sue in 2019.

The next chapter

The cottages are now approaching their 10-year anniversary this month. They’re firm favourites on the local landscape and in marvellous company among the Ribble Valley’s abundance of brilliant self-catering accommodation.

“Anna recognised the potential of getting to know other local businesses the moment she joined us,” Ian says. “We were doing well but didn’t fully appreciate the potential of connecting with others or having a presence on social media.”

As well as ensuring guests had the best experience possible, Anna has focused on broadening Oakdean Cottages’ regional connections. Nominating the cottages for the prestigious Lancashire Tourism Award felt a fitting next step.

Recognition

Achieving success on the county stage felt quite a mountain to climb, especially in the prestigious category of Best Self-Catering Accommodation. Guests obviously thought the cottages ticked all the right boxes, but would judges, secret shoppers and an expert panel from Marketing Lancashire? Yes, is the short answer.

The judges, described Oakdean Cottages as: “A countryside idyll, three immaculate holiday cottages situated in the Ribble Valley with spectacular views over the countryside. The team at Oakdean Cottages welcome guests from all over the world making their stay the most comfortable and memorable it can be.”

Anna recalls: “Hearing our name called out as winners, was just simply incredible. We’re so honoured to win such a prestigious award and excited about the future.”

There are some exciting developments afoot. Oakdean Cottages recognise the demand for wedding accommodation in the Ribble Valley and have recently introduced an all-new two-night package: “We want to open our doors to brides, grooms and party guests with

two-night stays (as opposed to a three-night minimum). Our bespoke wedding package includes champagne and organisation of transport to the venue,” says Anna.

It’s that focus on the very best guest-experience that has brought Oakdean Cottages a decade’s worth of success and recognition, not to mention those five-star reviews. Wherever you’re from, this hidden gem is definitely worth a visit. n

To explore or book, visit: oakdeancottages.com

To find out more about the two-night wedding package or other offers email: stay@oakdeancottages.com

“She was particularly bothered about losing her hair and she suddenly had lots of questions.”

As part of the SCALP community, Victoria, her family and a group of supporters have been making up goody bags to deliver to patients in hospitals in the Preston area: “The bags contain toiletries and lip balm,” adds Lynne.

When she returned home from hospital, realising the trauma she had undergone, Victoria set about seeing how she could help others and created a private consultation room at one of her salons to chat with people with hair loss advising them on coping strategies, on wigs, how to look after them, beauty products that can enhance brows and lashes as well as offering her expert advice on style and colouring, once hair starts growing back.

HELPING OTHERS

Hairdresser Victoria Latham founded SCALP (Supporting Cancer Alopecia Lives and People) last year after being diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia.

With salons in Leyland and Garstang,

Victoria knows exactly how it feels having to cope with hair loss, as her mum Lynne Rawlinson explains: “Victoria was admitted to hospital last year and had to undergo a very aggressive form of chemotherapy, which had various side effects.

With a facebook page on social media, SCALP is there to help any anyone going through hair loss due to chemotherapy, menopause alopecia and other issues. On facebook Victoria explains: “For most people our hair is one of the most important things in making us feel good and confident and when this is taken it can leave us feeling very upset and vulnerable, but it doesn’t need to be this way.” n

As part of their fund-raising effort, SCALP is holding an event on 1st June at Voie Garstang and on 2nd June at Voie Leyland featuring fizz, fun and raffles with luxury prizes

For more details about SCALP go to the Facebook page

Voie Leyland 01772 421929

Voie Garstang 01995 676442

voiehairbeauty.co.uk

A charity fund-raiser is to be held in order to raise awareness of the issues facing people who have hair loss

welcome to your own luxury lodge development in the heart of the ribble valley.

Be part of our new luxury lodge gated community in these peaceful, beautiful settings with a unique 12-month holiday home licence.

Ribble Valley View is situated near the historic market towns and villages of Whalley, Clitheroe, Ribchester, Hurst Green and Longridge, each brimming with individual shops, historic treasures and tales to be told.

Our park has the highest quality, fully furnished luxury lodges, all lodges have a large private individual parking space and raised decking, surrounding them to ensure you can enjoy the amazing views across The Ribble Valley.

WE ARE LOCATED NEXT TO THE BLACK BULL AT OLD LANGHO

WE CAN WALK IT OUT

The phrase ‘solvitur ambulando’ –which loosely translates as ‘solve it by walking’ – has been attributed to a pantheon of writers ranging from Lewis Carroll to Paul Theroux.

It turns out that many of these luminaries were also big thinkers, who recognised the value of regular walks to order and structure their thoughts and generally make sense of the world around them.

While Carroll was penning Alice in Wonderland, workers in the rapidly industrialising towns of East Lancashire headed into the hills to escape the noise and pollution of the mills. Today, we’re more likely to hit the trail in search of some headspace and a digital detox.

In our constantly connected 24/7 society, knowledge work has largely replaced hard physical graft, but there’s a raft of evidence to suggest that we still need regular exercise outdoors – and 20 minutes on the treadmill just won’t cut it.

There’s something about walking that calms the internal chatter. It could be the gentle stimulation of the vagus nerve that soothes the mind, or it might simply be the simple satisfaction of making progress

towards a clearly defined objective, but if you could distil the benefits of walking into a pill or potion, it would give Prozac a run for its money.

More and more men are recognising the potential of a long hike to clear their heads. It’s healthier than just piling down the pub –although a pint or two after a long hike with mates remains one of life’s greatest pleasures.

There’s something about walking alongside people in a small group that changes the nature of the conversation. The banter subsides and the chat often becomes less adversarial and runs deeper.

It takes around 40 minutes for the mind to settle and tune into the slower rhythms of nature – so aim to cover at least three or four miles, and if navigation isn’t your thing, consider joining a walking group where the leader will take care of all that map malarky.

The NHS now recognises the benefits of time outdoors and offers ‘nature on prescription’ in Lancashire via the Connecting People and Nature scheme, which offers free outdoor walks and talks at various locations across the county.

Matt Donnelly at Bowland Fitness offers walks and activities with a focus on holistic men’s health in the scenic setting of the Forest of Bowland, while Freshwalks runs regular guided walks in Lancashire for businesspeople (men and women) to connect and maintain a healthy work/life balance.

For those with established mental health challenges, walking groups like Mind over Mountains formed to provide support

networks for those who sometimes struggle in more conventional group settings. And don’t underestimate the cumulative benefits of regular walking. Country Walking magazine’s #Walk1000Miles initiative motivates participants to cover 1000 miles over the course of a year and to thousands of devotees, it’s been a life-changing experience. n

Looking for a walk to try with mates? Mark’s guidebook to Walking in Lancashire is a good place to start. Follow this link to buy the book direct from publishers Cicerone: cicerone.co.uk/walking-in-lancashire

Walking groups are gaining popularity with men who want a healthier alternative to popping down the pub to get a bit of headspace, writes Mark Sutcliffe

Gibbon Bridge is the ideal place for lunch or dinner in the Ribble Valley, the restaurant overlooks the award-winning gardens and Longridge Fell and is open daily and offers a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. The hotel is also perfectly situated for exploring the Forest of Bowland on foot, by bicycle or by car, and throughout the year offers exceptional value with its varied calendar of events, short breaks and overnight stays. Visit the website for current offers. Whether you are visiting, or live in the area, it is the perfect place to enjoy quality homemade food and exceptional service in good company!

SUMMER CHIPPY TEAS

Fridays, 5.30pm - 6.30pm

23rd & 30th June, 7th & 21st July

4th & 25th August

Call in and sit in our gorgeous gardens for fish, chips & mushy peas for ONLY £16.95

WEDDING OPEN DAY

Saturday 1st July 11am - 2pm

Explore the gardens, meet suppliers, chat with our team and discover what we can do to make your special day perfect.

GARDEN OPEN DAY

Saturday 8th July 11am to 2pm

£20 PP - entry and picnic lunch. Meet the floral & grounds team, enjoy live music, plant stall, homemade goods & bakery stalls, bar & children’s play area. Pre booking required.

THE BEST VALUE LUNCHES IN THE RIBBLE VALLEY (Booking advised)

Lunch 12.00 – 1.30pm

1 course £22.00 I 2 courses £28 I 3 courses £34

Sunday Lunch with Pianist playing

2 courses £31 I 3 courses £38.50

Dinner 6pm to 7.30pm

2 courses £30 I 3 courses £37.50

GIN TASTING WITH GOOSNARGH GIN

Saturday 5th August

Gin Tasting 5pm Gin Themed Dinner 7pm

£275 PER COUPLE - including gin tasting, superb gin themed dinner, accommodation and breakfast and a set of miniature gins to take away. £45 PP - tasting & dinner only.

FIVE HUNDRED YEARS OF HISTORY…

Tucked away in acres of parkland and forestry, is Browsholme Hall which has been home to 15 generations of the Parker family

If you are lucky enough to live in the Ribble Valley or if you travel from further afield, a trip to beautiful Browsholme Hall is a must-do date in your diary this summer!

Surrounding by 900 acres of woodland, forestry and parkland, Grade I listed Browsholme is first and foremost a family home that is filled with centuries of history.

Fifteen generations have passed through the house – each leaving behind their possessions, now of great historic interest.

Today, Amanda and Robert Parker are the current owners of the hall, which was built in 1507. Along with daughter Eleanor

and son Roland, they work tirelessly to bring the hall into the 21st century, updating the gardens and grounds, creating a sustainable business that attracts visitors from all over the UK.

Conducting tours on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from April to October, knowledgeable volunteers take groups around Browsholme, explaining the history of each room – from the grand main hall to the library and Regency room, each space has a story to tell.

“It’s a home with 500 plus years of history,” explains Eleanor. “It would seem our ancestors

were incredibly well travelled from the antiques we have on display. In the main hall there is civil war armour, part of a Zeppelin from WW1, elephant tusks and the diaries and pocket books of an ancestor, Elizabeth Parker, that date back to the late 1700s, giving a detailed insight into the daily lives of family, friends and life on the estate.”

Among Eleanor’s favourites is a mummified turtle brought back from the travels of Thomas Lister Parker, a great collector of

IT WOULD SEEM OUR ANCESTORS WERE INCREDIBLY WELL TRAVELLED FROM THE ARTEFACTS WE HAVE ON DISPLAY

art and antiquities – this can be seen in Browsholme’ s historic library.

An important project underway is to catalogue over 5,000 historic family papers to create a unique archive of previously undiscovered documents including handwritten recipes from the 18th century and hand-drawn maps, to letters that describe life in the trenches during the Great War.

Outside the Hall new pathways have been created through the woodland by the lake, there is an Edwardian garden and the Wilderness garden, which was originally created in 1707 to mark the Act of the Union that has recently been re-planted in the original geometric quadrants to represent the Union Jack.

Last year under the late Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee ‘Green Canopy’ project, a two-acre woodland garden was created with a selection of beautiful trees and shrubs, including rhododendron, magnolia, cherry and acers for spring and autumn colour.

Set within Browshome’s lush woodland glades are luxury lodges for overnight guests,

while there is also the light and airy threebedroom Shepherd’s Cottage, for longer stays: “All Browsholme accommodation is available to book on Airbnb,” says Eleanor.

ALL BROWSHOLME ACCOMMODATION IS AVAILABLE TO BOOK ON AIRBNB

“It is a perfect place to stay for walkers and cyclists – there are maps for guests with recommended walks in Pendle, Parlick and the Trough, and we are dog friendly too.”

Guests and visitors can enjoy lunch in the popular café, located in the Cart Shed. With

Tours of Browsholme Hall, along with the delightful Cart Shed café and gardens are on Tuesdays and Wednesdays until October.

Please go to the website for opening times and information. browsholme.com

seasonal specials which change each week and a fixed menu, the café is open Tuesday and Wednesday during the summer months and on Wednesdays during winter. There are occasional pop-up breakfasts in the Cart Shed, which are advertised on social media with ‘Butty & Brews’ being the most popular so far! n

To find out more about Browsholme Hall tours, café and accommodation go to the website: browsholme.com or follow them on social media

Browsholme Hall

Clitheroe Road

Cow Ark, Clitheroe BB7 3DE 01254 827160

hello@browsholme.com

browsholme.com

SUPERBIKE FOR SUPERHUMAN ENDEAVOURS

Geoff Thomas, MBE, former footballing legend and blood cancer survivor, has been prolific in raising awareness and fund-raising with the Tour 21 series

Geoff Thomas has conquered all 21 stages of the Tour de France no less than five times as a tribute to the medical professionals who helped him and to patients fighting their own battle against Leukaemia.

Ribble Cycles, honours the Tour 21, their superhuman efforts and celebrates being the official bike partner with the creation of a new tour superbike – Ribble’s Tour 21 Alumni

Limited Edition Ultra SL R.

Masterminded by Ribble’s Head of Product and ex-pro Tour rider, Jamie Burrow, who is no stranger of what it really takes to complete one of the most iconic sporting events in the world, the bike is a special homage to everyone’s personal efforts, which is reflected in the striking aerodynamically optimised geometry, resplendent bespoke colourway and 24-carat gold leaf detailing. As a limited edition it is only available to Tour 21 riders, with each bike personally signed and numbered by Geoff Thomas and proceeds going to Cure Leukaemia.

TOUR TALK

Geoff, you have completed the Tour de France five times – how did this come about? With a conversation really – when I was told I was in remission from cancer in January 2005. I still had a profile from my playing days, but my knees were shot from football. I asked someone what riding the Tour would entail and was told it would be three weeks in France. I didn’t even have a bike, but I knew that this was what I needed to do. I got my first bike at the start of March 2005 and my first ride was six miles and it nearly killed me! I thought to myself, ‘I’m really going to have to put some effort into this!’.

Describe the experience – has it lived up to expectations?

Surpassed everything! Nobody really gave me any hope but that’s what motivated me. I did my first 100-mile ride just two weeks before that first event. We had some gruelling days but the feeling reaching Paris was indescribable.

How much have your efforts raised?

The first ride raised £250,000 and in 2021 we raised more than £1m for the first time. Over the years we’ve leveraged more than £300 million in drugs into the infrastructure we’ve built.

Ribble’s superbike and support what does that mean?

We’ve struck up a good relationship and a support package for the Tour 21. I’m a modest guy, but the Alumni bike’s creation to raise money for Cure Leukaemia is great. n

For more information, visit: ribblecycles.co.uk

THE ALUMNI BIKE’S CREATION TO RAISE MONEY FOR CURE LEUKAEMIA IS GREAT

WHEN COHABITING GOES WRONG

According to data from the Office of National Statistics, 3.6 million couples in the UK are currently cohabiting (living with a partner while unmarried). This figure has increased by 22.9 per cent over the last decade, making it the fastest growing family type. However, many cohabiting couples are still unaware that they are not legally protected in the same way as

those who are married or in a civil partnership.

Angharad Bentley says: “I am still so often approached by couples who believe they have legal protection as a result of being in a ‘common law marriage’, because they have been cohabiting for some time, or they have children together. Common law marriage is a myth. Sadly, unmarried couples have very limited legal rights and responsibilities towards each other if the relationship breaks down.

“For this reason, if you’re considering cohabiting with your partner, we would advise you to take specialist legal advice to discuss your options.”

a TOLATA claim to resolve the issue.

“Claims under the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996 (TOLATA) can be made to the courts where property is in one party’s sole name or jointly owned.

In the absence of a clear agreement or legal documentation, unmarried couples on separation may have limited remedies available to them.

“If you separate from your cohabiting partner, where possible, you should try to reach an agreement about the future of the property, such as one of you buying the other out or selling the whole property,” explains Rachel Harrison.

“Where it’s not possible to reach an agreement about whether the property should be sold and/or the arrangements for the sale, then as a last resort, you should discuss with your legal advisor about making

“It is possible to ask the court to determine the proportions of ownership of the property, order the sale, the sale price and/or how the proceeds are to be divided.”

Before you commence a claim, it’s important to speak to a legal professional first to ensure this is the best route for you or to assist with reaching an agreement before a claim is necessary. n

For advice and assistance, please contact Farleys Solicitors on 01254 368040, email: info@farleys.com or visit farleys.com

Pictured, top left: Rachel Harrison and top right: Angharad Bentley

Contrary to common belief, cohabiting couples are afforded very little legal protection should the relationship fail, when it comes to dividing property and assets. Farleys’ dispute specialist Rachel Harrison and family law specialist Angharad Bentley offer their expert advice

UNMARRIED COUPLES HAVE VERY LIMITED LEGAL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES TOWARDS EACH OTHER IF THE RELATIONSHIP BREAKS DOWN

CONNECTING WITH NATURE…

Work is about to start on the landmark Eden Project that will connect visitors to the natural world and celebrate the unique environment of Morecambe Bay

phase with details of the first round of recruitment to be announced soon. Around 300 high-quality green jobs will be directly created by Eden Project Morecambe, with more than 1,000 additional new jobs in the region.

The Eden Project was recently awarded £50m in the second round of the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund to build the new Eden Project Morecambe.

The bid was chosen as a recipient of the largest investment possible under the fund, earmarked for large-scale, cultural regeneration projects.

P reparatory groundwork will now be undertaken on the site on the Morecambe seafront, a vital prelude to construction beginning. The Eden Project team will ensure the community is kept informed about the construction schedule through its social media channels, local media and a revamped series of community engagement events.

A n expanded project delivery team will be created in preparation for the construction

The £50m investment is half of the £100m needed to build the coastal-themed project. The funding allows the project to move into its next phase and begin the process of finalising the remaining £50m from private and philanthropic sources.

Eden Project Morecambe is being delivered by the team behind the first Eden Project in Cornwall, alongside local partners Lancaster University, Lancaster City Council, Lancashire County Council and the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership. It is one of the key initiatives in an expansion plan that will see Eden Projects built elsewhere in the UK and around the world.

Welcoming the funding announcement, Rob Chatwin, Group CEO of the Eden Project: “This is a historic moment for the town of Morecambe and the surrounding area and for the Eden Project and our partners.

Annual visitor numbers are projected to be 740,000 and additional revenue brought into local businesses due to Eden Project Morecambe is set to exceed the £50m Government investment, within months of the project opening.

Preparation for construction is due to start this year and the aim is for Eden Project Morecambe to be open to visitors by 2026.

“ We are delighted that Eden Project Morecambe has been recognised as part of the Levelling Up Fund and we are incredibly grateful to the Government, our partners, David Morris MP and the unique community of Morecambe for their wholehearted support. This is a ringing endorsement of the teamwork that has brought Eden Project Morecambe to this point. We will now continue to work hard with our partners to make this vision a reality.”

Debbie Francis OBE, Chair of the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership, which contributed £1.2m from its Growth Deal Programme to help develop the project, said: “This funding

THE PROJECT WILL HAVE AN IMMENSE ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ON THE COUNTY

is fantastic news for Morecambe and Lancashire as a whole. Eden Project Morecambe is a truly transformational scheme that embodies the ethos of Levelling Up and shows what can be achieved through partnership working.

“ The project will have an immense economic, social and environmental impact on the county. Eden is an international brand which will not only attract visitors to the area but will create significant job opportunities directly and indirectly in our local supply chains, stimulating growth in some of our

key sectors, as well as enhancing our already significant environmental research expertise.”

S arah Kemp, Lancaster University Pro

Vice-Chancellor for Engagement, said:

“As an anchor institution we are deeply invested in the health and vitality of our regional economy and the university has long championed the idea of Eden coming to the North of England.

“ We are delighted to see that idea taking a step closer to becoming a reality and look forward to building on our partnerships, bringing the full strength of Lancaster University’s research expertise in environment, sustainability and enterprise power to the table for the benefit of our region.”

Eden Project Morecambe will be a landmark attraction for the North West which will continue the Eden Project’s mission of connecting people to the natural world, celebrating the unique environment of Morecambe Bay.

E den Project Morecambe will be situated on the central promenade of Morecambe, on the former site of the Bubbles leisure complex with the Grade II listed Winter Gardens and Midland Hotel its nearby neighbours. The project has been designed in a way which is sensitive and complementary to these important buildings and sightlines across the bay. n

EDEN IS AN INTERNATIONAL BRAND WHICH WILL NOT ONLY ATTRACT VISITORS TO THE AREA BUT WILL CREATE SIGNIFICANT JOB OPPORTUNITIES

EDUCATION NEWS

COLOUR RUN

The children of St Michael & St John’s RC Primary in Clitheroe took part in a sponsored Colour Run last month. It was a spectacularly messy event with everyone, including the brave staff and parents who joined in, having a great time! Fundraising will go towards new school technology. The PTA event was organised with help from the School Council and local business sponsors including Raffia, La Tete, JaRo HR, ProSport, Little Voices, Sainsburys, Lulu Browns and Stones Young. Thank you to all involved!

TES AWARDS

Giggleswick School in Settle is proud to have been shortlisted for ‘Best Use of Technology’ in the TES School Awards 2023. The prestigious awards recognise the very best that the education sector has to offer and include entrants from UK state and independents across early years, primary and secondary. The awards are a wellrespected achievement and are judged by an expert panel comprising school leaders, experts and education researchers. The winners will be announced on Friday 23rd June 2023 at a gala ceremony at London’s Grosvenor Park Hotel.

APPRENTICESHIP WIN

Proud staff and learners at Burnley College are celebrating after Themis, the college’s apprenticeship training arm, won the highlycompetitive UK Apprenticeship Award and Highly Commended in the Sustainable Green Initiative Award for its pioneering Low Carbon Hub. Head of Apprenticeships at Themis Hannah Cutler says: “What makes this award so special is because it belongs to all of us. We pride ourselves on listening to the learner voice and working closely alongside industry.”

CORONATION CHAMPION

Stonyhurst’s Head Boy, Dilip, has been recognised for his charitable contributions and crowned a Coronation Champion. With the support of Her Majesty The Queen Consort, a passionate advocate of volunteering and President of the Royal Voluntary Service, the Coronation Champions Awards were launched to recognise exceptional volunteers from across the country. All Coronation Champions, including Dilip, were invited to attend one of the official Coronation celebrations. He also received a specially designed, official Coronation Champions pin and a certificate signed by the King and Queen.

WORLDSKILLS DUO

Two Burnley College learners with exceptional talents in Computer Aided Design (CAD) and 3D printing are preparing for the next stage of Wordskills, a global competition which fosters excellence in a wide variety of industries, from aircraft maintenance to accountancy. Lucas Haslam and Igor Dolgan are competing in the CAD and Additive Design (3D printing) heats taking place at Burnley College next month. Lucas (19), from Accrington, is in the second year of his Advanced Manufacturing Engineering programme. Igor (18), from Burnley, is a Themis Apprentice, employed at Johnson Matthey and studying for a HNC in Mechatronics at Burnley College University Courses. The heat will see both learners given a complex brief and set of engineering illustrations to complete a task which mirrors the daily work of design engineers.

CELEBRATION OF SPORTING ACHIEVEMENTS

Westholme held their annual Sports Awards dinner at Ewood Park, home of Blackburn Rovers FC, to celebrate students’ sporting achievements of the past 12 months. The guest speaker was Ali Ghazanfar, former Pakistan hockey captain, who spoke about his love of the sport and playing for the Pakistan Junior Hockey side since the age of 19 before going on to play for Pakistan in over 245 international matches. He also represented Pakistan in the 2002 and 2006 Hockey World Cups, the Commonwealth Games in 2002, as well as international tournaments.

BURNLEY COLLEGE DOUBLE WINNER AT PRESTIGIOUS EDUCATE NORTH AWARDS

Proud staff and learners at Burnley College are celebrating after Themis, the College’s successful apprenticeship training arm, scooped the highly competitive UK Apprenticeship Award and won a Highly Commended Award in the Sustainable Green Initiative category for their pioneering Low Carbon Hub.

Burnley College was praised for its mission to create the workforce of the future and its commitment to sustainability at the prestigious Educate North Awards, which attract entries from the region’s top colleges and universities.

Do you want to start your apprenticeship journey at the number one college* in England? Do you want to train in a college where the facilities are state-of-the-art and constantly expanding?

CONTACT THE THEMIS TEAM

01282 733005

themis@burnley.ac.uk

VIEW ALL OUR LATEST Apprenticeship vacancies www.burnley.ac.uk/themis

Winner UK Apprenticeship Award, Themis at Burnley College

Highly Commended, The Sustainable Green Initiative Award * For all 16-18 qualification levels as shown in the latest government achievement rate tables

HAPPY 100TH BIRTHDAY!

It was all about having fun for pupils at Westholme School, which recently celebrated its centenary year, writes Meena McDonald

The inspirational and infectious energy of Westholme shone when the school held its Centenary Birthday Party last month.

The momentous celebrations embraced all the values the pioneering Lancashire independent school holds close to its heart –authenticity, enthusiasm, commitment, fun, team-spirit, vibrancy, resilience and a genuine belief that anything is possible.

created a day that will remain a delightful memory for every student for the rest of their lives, with the experience no doubt retold many times.

Students returned from their Easter break to the amazing party, packed with balloons, bunting, banners, music and entertainment throughout the whole school environment.

the dining hall was full of truly creative and astounding outfits.

The Senior and INSPIRED Sixth Form students were immersed in various themes around school from The Great Escape, with numerous challenge scenarios, to Westholme Through the Ages with quizzes, dances and collaborative art creating. Every student was given a voucher which entitled them to a sweet treat, a magic mirror photo booth session and a glitter tattoo. The children had a tremendous amount of fun dressing up and having photos taken with their friends, which were printed immediately for them to enjoy as a keepsake.

The 100-year celebrations organised by the teaching staff encompassed the whole four to 18 school and every student was thoroughly involved in a wide range of funfilled activities.

In the classic Westholme way, they

Prep pupils were involved in an outdoor treasure hunt with numerous challenges to complete along the way and finished their exciting day with a Through the Decades party where each Prep year dressed in a different decade from the school’s history. From rock and roll to the swinging sixties,

Outdoors in the beautiful grounds, there was a diverse range of activities for students to embrace too, such as an inflatable course, slalom, parachute and a tower challenge. All this, along with cake stalls and an ice cream van, ensured the celebrations continued right up until home time when everyone left school with huge smiles.

Westholme isn’t the only one celebrating

its centenary – so is Disney!

So, Westholme adopted the Disney theme in their production which was performed by all of the staff on stage in the majestic Croston Theatre. The exuberant atmosphere was electrifying as the students gazed at the amazing animal outfits, singing solos and duets. The cheers and uproar of laughter were audible from the end of Meins Road! Comments from the students about the day included: “Fabulous, amazing and a day to remember!”

commented: “The unique spirit of Westholme really was captured in the birthday celebrations and will remain an ever-lasting jubilant memory for every member of staff and student

involved. Our commitment to continue to pioneer the future of education, which our students experience daily, really came to the fore on our special day encapsulating our unrivalled holistic excellence at Westholme.”

Of course, you can’t have a birthday party without a cake! But the Westholme cake wasn’t just any old cake, it was over a metre in length and enough to serve a slice for every single one of the school’s 800 students. The special 100 number, designed and constructed by the Design Technology department, stood large and proud on the top for everyone to see.

During the Disney birthday cake assembly, everyone sang a very touching Happy Birthday and then the current and incoming Head Boys and Head Girls blew out all 100 candles! It was an incredibly moving and momentous occasion for the whole school.

Dr Richard Robson, Principal of

Seniors/INSPIRED Sixth Form

Open Evening

5th October 2023 registrar@westholmeschool.com

This really was an occasion for the entire Westholme family and it is hard to imagine another birthday party like it! n

If you are eager to find out more about the distinctive educational philosophy on display at Westholme please contact: registrar@westholmeschool.com

Or visit the exciting Seniors/INSPIRED Sixth Form Open Evening on 5th October 2023

Westholme School

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

Westholme

THE WESTHOLME CAKE WASN’T JUST ANY OLD CAKE, IT WAS OVER A METRE IN LENGTH AND ENOUGH TO SERVE A SLICE FOR EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THE SCHOOL’S 800 STUDENTS

Ian Liddle of Farleys Solicitors chats to Gail Bailey about his inspirational career journey and the importance of charitable fundraising

Born in Sunderland and one of five children, Ian Liddle admits he didn’t have an easy start in life:

“My dad was in the Merchant Navy and rarely home, so my mum brought us up on her own. We lived on a council estate where money was tight,” Ian says.

Losing his mother suddenly when he was just 13, was a difficult time and whilst initially Ian’s elder three sisters cared for him and his younger brother, this wasn’t sustainable, and the boys went away to school: “My dad managed to get myself and my brother a place at Ackworth School and this really was a turning point,” Ian explains.

“I had an interview with Farleys to work as an office junior – and I have been here ever since!”

Ian’s interview wasn’t as you would expect and consisted of being asked if he was any good at football and was invited to play in a game that evening. He obviously impressed them with his skills on the pitch as he was offered the position and was then supported through university, before returning as a trainee solicitor eager to develop the commercial arm of the business.

“Farleys didn’t have a commercial department when I started, and this was the area of law that interested me most. I am grateful to have been given the opportunity and I gradually built our client base, along with our reputation, and it’s now the largest department in the practice – not all down to me of course but I’d like to think I started it!”

Day celebration, established 18 years ago, is a corporate fundraising event hosted by Farleys that has supported Cash4Kids helping young people and their families.

Blackburn Youth Zone is another charity that has benefited from Ian and Farleys fundraising: “Myself and Paul Westhead (who was President of Blackburn Rugby Club at the time) were invited to a beer festival to raise money for Bolton Lads and Girls Club and on the way home we decided we could do something similar right here in Blackburn.”

“Life had been far from easy, and I had very few aspirations about my future, but suddenly I was sitting next to peers who were aiming high! With my friends wanting to be pilots or go into medicine, I suddenly had the realisation that as I was doing as well academically as they were, why couldn’t I aspire to achieve more? I thought my path was already laid out in front of me, but I started to see a different life ahead and I worked hard to get there.”

Ian had decided he’d like to go into the legal profession but on leaving school he sadly didn’t have anywhere to live, so opted for a career that would ensure he had a home: “I thought my only choices were the armed forces or the police,” he says. After successfully being offered a role in the police, the parents of a friend who knew he didn’t really want to be a police officer, offered him their spare room whilst he explored other options –and this is what brought him to Blackburn:

Now a Managing Partner in the business, Ian has always felt a responsibility to give back and charity work has been a big part of his professional life: “I appreciate that life could have been very different for me, and I want other children to have the same opportunities they may not otherwise have. I grew up in an area where people didn’t have much, and I have seen the impact that deprivation and neglect can have on the life chances of children. Helping those from low income and deprived backgrounds is really important to me and drives me to want to keep raising funds to make a difference.

“Ability can be there but not having stability, support or a good role model can be life limiting,” Ian says.

“My mindset changed during my time at Ackworth School. I had my own lucky break and I want to help other children realise their own potential.”

Ian’s own fundraising began with a bike ride from Paris to Blackburn to raise money for Cash4Kids where he then became a trustee for eight years and who he still holds regular events to raise money for. An annual St Patrick’s

Held at the rugby club in 2014 and sponsored by Farleys, the beer festival still continues and has been instrumental in raising significant sums for Blackburn Youth Zone.

Farleys now has its own Charitable Foundation, established six years ago that makes regular contributions to local children’s charities: “Farleys has recently become part of The Lawfront Group Ltd, which will help to accelerate our own growth plans and strengthen the offer we can give to our clients. We employ over 160 people over seven offices, and with our success we can continue our commitment to being immersed in the community and wanting to give back by growing our charitable presence.

“It is hugely important to me personally that we continue to grow our charity work as we continue to grow as a business,” Ian adds. “No child should be limited due to a difficult start in life – I’m testament to that –and it’s my driver to ensure other children get the chance to raise their own aspirations and make the right choices too.” n

farleys.com

I GREW UP IN AN AREA WHERE PEOPLE DIDN’T HAVE MUCH AND HAVE SEEN FIRST-HAND THE IMPACT THAT DEPRIVATION AND NEGLECT CAN HAVE ON THE LIFE CHANCES OF CHILDREN

IAN’S OWN FUNDRAISING BEGAN WITH A BIKE RIDE FROM PARIS TO BLACKBURN TO RAISE MONEY FOR CASH4KIDS

Well, it didn’t go quite to plan for the Conservative party in the recent local elections here in the Ribble Valley. Having held a majority and control of the borough council for more than 30 years, the results were quite shocking – this is of course, set against a background of losses for the Conservatives across the country. The turnout was only 30 per cent and whilst this is normal, it begs the question as to how strong a campaign was fought by the prospective councillors to woo voters and to get residents to the polling stations.

So, what does it mean? Let’s start with the new composition of the council. Eighteen Tories, down from 26, eight Liberal Democrats, down from 10 and seven Labour (the first time in living memory) two Greens and five Independents, including two dissident Tories, who had jumped ship but retained their seats. With no overall majority, I guess the Independents hold the key for the huge capital decisions that will need to be taken over the next four years.

There is also a potential plot twist – the closely run campaign in Whalley saw the incumbent Ged Mirfin lose to the Independent candidate John Atherton by just six votes. It seems RVBC have messed up, as some residents appear to have cast their votes in the wrong ward – blame an admin error! This blunder has now been taken away from RVBC, who have admitted the mistake, and may well end up in a new by-election in June. You really couldn’t make it up, it’s like a ‘Carry On’

movie but not in the least bit funny. I fear with this hung council, even less will happen in terms of decision-making and that seriously worries me.

Looking to 2024 we will then see a General Election with Nigel Evans fighting in a new constituency geographically, with an epicentre in the new Labour stronghold of Longridge and Andrew Stevenson will be trying to hold on to the new seat of Pendle & Clitheroe. It’s certainly going to be interesting and I wonder if these MPs and their opponents will have learned anything from their local counterparts.

Outside of the elections, there have been lots of incoming messages about planning issues. Businesses continue to be frustrated at the, ‘No – what’s the question?’ culture of both officers and the previous planning committee. I’ve been more concerned at the apparent lack of interest from both teams to visit the businesses in question and to work together on a plan for progress. We all accept that there are procedures and rules in place, but we must encourage businesses to grow and flourish in what is still a perilous economic outlook.

In the spirit of balance, if anyone has any examples of success with planning, please get in touch. Perhaps a re-shaped committee, post-elections, will shake things up?

Whalley looks to be a hotbed at the moment – the cynic in me suggests that the potential of a by- election might have something to do with the noise? Fears around new road links causing danger and moves to fight the inevitable march of new build, have dropped into my inbox. Local residents are signing petitions and being championed by local business and councillors, but I guess the inevitable will follow but will the infrastructure cope?

As we move from spring into summer, I’m hoping to see and hear about a lot of initiatives and events to drive footfall into the towns and villages. I’m going to ask the council, Chambers of Trade, Clitheroe Town Team and anyone else, to provide as much information for us to help promote those summer events – please feel free to get in touch. We are here to help.

As always, I’d ask you to be kind to each other and support our local economies wherever and whenever you can. 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 reflects on the local elections and asks why businesses are being held back by planning issues

Supporting your business needs

Whether you are organising an intimate meeting, hosting a company conference, or a residential staff training course, Mytton Fold Hotel is the ultimate choice, where business meets comfort.

With a choice of four conference and meeting rooms to meet your requirements, seating for 250 in our largest corporate setting, and 34 contemporary bedrooms, plus 2 luxury suites available for corporate stays.

Offering a selection of delegate packages and flexible menus to guarantee the ultimate success of your event, our dedicated Events Team are on hand throughout, to provide an all round unrivalled service.

Professor Michio Kaku, theoretical physicist, author and futurist, presented a talk based on over 300 interviews with the world’s top scientists. Professor Kaku described how revolutionary developments in medicine, computers, energy, quantum physics and space travel will change our lives and alter the course of civilisation.

Evan Osnos, staff writer at the New York Times, described how the growth of the USA and China and their interdependence is changing the global landscape, both politically and in business terms.

INTERNATIONAL ACCOLADE

Every two to three years Raymond James’ nearly 9000 wealth managers in the UK, Canada and the US are assessed against a range of criteria and the Global Top Advisors are invited to a conference, held this time in New York. Two Raymond James Investment Services Branch Principals in the UK achieved this incredible global accolade this year, including myself. It is such an honour to achieve this recognition and testament to the skill and dedication of the team here in Longridge.

Raymond James Financial (RJF) – our parent company – is a huge global investment services business and goes from strength to strength. The firm has celebrated 140 consecutive quarters – 35 years of profitability. One of the key drivers of RJF’s success is the firm’s relentless commitment to client service and maintaining a long-term focus.

Reflecting this commitment, the credit rating agency Standard & Poor’s (S&P) recently raised Raymond James’ long-term issuer rating to ‘A-’. With this announcement, Raymond James now has A-level ratings with a stable outlook across all three major agencies of Fitch, Moody’s and S&P – a meaningful and positive distinguishment.

With over $1.2 trillion in client assets and a market capitalisation of $19 billion, Raymond James Financial is a world-respected financial business. In the UK, Raymond James Investment Services has over 46,000 client accounts and over £14 billion in client assets.

Sessions focusing on management strategies in a changing world, provided a fabulous introduction to the final session led by Dr Joseph Coughlin from Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Dr Coughlin described how social and technological forces are converging to re-shape the future of financial advice. The demographic realities of longer life and fewer children are challenging how people envision, prepare for and live each life stage, particularly older age. Processes increasingly being undertaken by algorithms and AI are disrupting the traditional role of the financial advisor. Tomorrow’s business of advice will remain financial, but the currency of client relationships will be profoundly human embodying conversations, content and comprehensive solutions to enable individuals and families to successfully navigate 100 years of life on the new longevity frontier.

The conference underlined how dynamic the world of investment really is, responding to changes that affect us all, some of which we cannot control. Our advice has to be sensitive to each client using the best technology available. I am looking forward to sharing my learning from the experience with the team here to the benefit of our clients.

To be judged in terms of our compliance standards, customer satisfaction, growth trajectory and revenues and be included in the Raymond James’ Global Top Advisors, which is comprised of approximately 50 of the 9000 worldwide, is fabulous!

The conference delegates were able to hear insights and analysis from some of the world’s top thinkers with particular focus on future trends (not confined to the financial world), continuing global disruption and how human factors, as much as technology, will shape the future of financial advice.

We welcome anyone who is serious about their finances to book an initial consultation and investigate how the talented team at Raymond James Ribble Valley could help facilitate the financial future they envisage. n

With investing, your capital is at risk. This article is intended for information purposes only and no action should be taken or refrained from being taken as a consequence without consulting a suitably qualified and regulated person.

Raymond James, Ribble Valley

8 Berry Lane, Longridge

Preston PR3 3JA

01772 780300

ribblevalley.raymondjames.uk.com

Wayne Hayhurst, Branch Principal at Raymond James Ribble Valley, has recently returned from Raymond James’ Global Top Advisors conference in New York. Here he describes his experience

IT IS SUCH AN HONOUR TO ACHIEVE THIS GLOBAL RECOGNITION AND TESTAMENT TO THE SKILL AND DEDICATION OF THE TEAM HERE IN LONGRIDGE

SILENCE IS GOLDEN

Paul

Photography: Peter Austin

Going electric. Is it such a big deal? Short answer: No. If you put your trust in BMW - and why on earth not – switching to an electric car makes sound sense and is very straightforward.

There are numerous advantages and you really don’t have anything to worry about. There is no better example than the BMW i4 eDrive.

Is it quick off the mark? Is it sufficiently powerful? Does it go far enough on a charge?

How about 0-62mph in 5.7 seconds, 340 hp and a range of up to 365 miles?

With emissions at zero and the UK already set up with close on 25,000 charging locations – incorporating 42,566 electric vehicle charging points according to Zap Map – these statistics must surely leave the doubters with nowhere to go.

It looks the real deal and handles with what can only be described as quiet efficiency. While it is currently making a big noise in the motoring world, this is a car to be seen, not heard.

the total manufactured volume in 2023.

I tested the BMW i4 eDrive40 with rear-wheel drive and one electric motor, while BMW also offers the M50 variant, complete with two motors and four-wheel drive.

With regards to technology and connectivity, there is a 12.3” digital cockpit instrument cluster sited within a curved 14.9” CID (Central Information Display). Quite stunning.

You’ll find BMW IconicSounds electric, remote software upgrades, Smartphone and Amazon Alexa integrations, adaptive recuperation, parking assistant, cruise control with braking function, BMW operating system ID8 software, BMW intelligent personal assistant, BMW navigation system and a couple of useful USB connections.

The silence is golden across the range with BMW just announcing that order books have now opened for the eDrive35, making it the latest model to join the fully-electric BMW family (with a very attractive OTR price from £49,995).

All are painstakingly assembled at the BMW Group Munich Plant where it is expected that the production volume-share of fullyelectric cars will increase to 50 per cent of

With regards to comfort and practicality, there are 18” light alloy wheels, double-spoke style bicolour, high-gloss black interior trim, high-gloss shadowline exterior trim, sport leather steering wheel, BMW iBlue elements throughout, sport seats as standard and acoustic glass.

And as for the overall driving performance? Awesome.

Agnew test drives the BMW i4 eDrive40, a great performer with stunning looks – a car designed to be seen not heard.

IT LOOKS THE REAL DEAL AND HANDLES WITH WHAT CAN ONLY BE DESCRIBED AS QUIET EFFICIENCY

Although there is no engine noise, you can have ‘engine sound’ from none other than German film score composer Hans Zimmer –all operated via a driving experience switch!

Put your foot down – trust me this is one responsive, quick-off-the-mark, exhilarating ride – and the noise gets louder with the pitch rising as your speed increases.

BMW understand the importance of charging capabilities, both at home and in public. That’s why they’re offering either a complimentary standard Pod Point 7kW Home Charger with standard installation or £750 public charging credit for your BMW Charging account when you order an all-electric BMW before 30th June 2023*

The standard Pod Point Home Charger offers the following benefits:

• E fficient charging compared to a domestic three-pin socket

• E xpert Pod Point installation

• A ccess to the Pod Point app to view charging activity, track costs and schedule charging

As an alternative, you can opt for £750 credit towards BMW Charging instead:

W ith BMW Charging, you can charge nationwide and across Europe in one of the largest and constantly growing public charging networks with over 300,000 charging points.

History suggests that BMW invariably get things right. So, perhaps it’s time for us all to venture with confidence toward an electric future? n

T&C’s apply, see website for details

Bowker Blackburn

Trident Park, Trident Way

Blackburn BB1 3NU

01254 274444

bowkerblackburnbmw.co.uk

@BowkerBMW

@bmw_bowker

bowker-motor-group

HISTORY SUGGESTS THAT BMW INVARIABLY GET THINGS RIGHT. SO, PERHAPS IT’S TIME FOR US ALL TO VENTURE WITH CONFIDENCE TOWARD AN ELECTRIC FUTURE?

THE GRENADIER IS HERE…

next exciting chapter for us.

The INEOS Grenadier is an uncompromising 4X4 built from the ground up, engineered to be a rugged, capable and comfortable go-anywhere working vehicle.

Practical features include a 70:30 split rear door, integrated roof bars, pre-wiring for auxiliary lamps and accessories and a front bumper to sit on. An ‘open-source’ approach to accessories means owners can tailor the vehicle to their specific requirements.

The interior combines utilitarian practicality with the technology and comfort today’s drivers expect. Its intuitive and functional layout features physical switches that are widely spaced for easy use on the move, a central infotainment screen and an overhead console for off-road and auxiliary controls. Hose-out rubber flooring, hard-wearing Recaro seats and numerous stowage options mean the Grenadier is ready for anything work and life can throw at it.

Bowker Ribble Valley was officially appointed as the sole Lancashire partner for the new INEOS Grenadier 4X4 in 2022. The agreement sees Bowker operate in partnership

with INEOS from the automotive retailer’s existing Bowker Ribble Valley dealership on the A59 in Osbaldeston near Blackburn. It is one of 24 UK sites that are among the first 160 locations in markets around the world.

“INEOS brings a fresh perspective to 4X4 development and manufacturing. The Grenadier combines rugged British spirit with German engineering rigour, resulting in a truly nononsense 4X4. We look forward to building another successful partnership worthy of the Lancashire motoring community.”

Jack Stanley, Regional Business Manager UK and Ireland for INEOS Automotive, adds: “We have worked tirelessly for over a year to find retail partners that share our enthusiasm and excitement for the Grenadier.

Bowker Ribble Valley offers a full INEOS aftersales facility. The Bowker partnership with INEOS Automotive is overseen by Managing Director Chris Eccles, supported by the existing Bowker Ribble Valley team.

Paul Bowker, Bowker Motor Group Chief Executive, said: “It is a huge privilege to be chosen by INEOS to be their nominated partner in Lancashire. We have already established award-winning motor retail experiences in Preston and Blackburn with some of the world’s most prestigious motoring brands. The partnership with INEOS is the

“We have so far established a global network of over 160 partners who understand 4X4 users and their requirements and have a proven track record for exceptional customer service. We are working with these partners to ensure they are ready to offer Grenadier customers and owners the advice, guidance and support they need.” n Full information on pricing, specification and ordering process is available on the website

Bowker Ribble Valley Bay Horse Garage Longsight Road Osbaldeston BB2 7HX 01254 769069

bowkermotorgroup.co.uk/ineos-grenadier

Bowker Ribble Valley unveils the INEOS Grenadier that combines utilitarian practicality with today’s technology and comfort

THE GRENADIER COMBINES RUGGED BRITISH SPIRIT WITH GERMAN ENGINEERING RIGOUR, RESULTING IN A TRULY NO-NONSENSE 4X4

Endurance athlete Jordan Wyn-Jones is gearing up for an epic challenge. He is currently training for a 1700k run, walk and cycle, which he hopes will be a record-breaker – and you can join him on his journey! Photography: Roger Moore

For personal trainer Jordan Wyn-Jones, being able to do his latest world-record challenge is something he could never have imagined five years ago.

At the age of just 28, endurance athlete Jordan had a heart attack. Since then, he has fought his way back to health under the guidance of leading medical experts in London.

And he is now ready to take on his latest and greatest challenge to date, in a bid to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation.

In June, he is attempting a Guinness World Record walking and running from Brighton to Glasgow then cycling back – a total of 1700k in record time and along the way, he will be joined by various celebrities as well as members of the public who want to support his endeavour.

“This is a journey that at one point, I never thought I would be able to do. I have a great support team,” says Jordan, who has numerous sponsors involved, including Skins Sportswear and Tannus UK.

Members of the public who want to walk, run or ride with Jordan are able to join him for a £1-per-minute sponsorship slot: “They just need to keep an eye on social media and there will soon be a link as to how and where they can join me.

“I want to get the message out there and bring people along with me on my endurance adventure. I want to swap stories with them, find out about them. Everyone has a story to tell, it’s going to be a beautiful journey.

“I am in better shape now than I have ever been before. I’ve been training like crazy,” says Jordan, who has been a coach and PT for around 15 years.

“It’s about getting your body and mind accustomed. You go through a lot of emotions.”

Psychologically gearing up for his epic journey, he adds: “When you do something like this you have to understand how to carry on when your body is telling you to stop. It is not just a physical fight it’s a mental one too.”

Having lived in many countries throughout the world, two years ago Jordan moved to Lancashire from Australia where he had been living, following a number of years in the Royal Navy.

He recalls: “After my time in the Royal Navy I expected a lot out of life. I liked adventure.

When I moved to Australia around six years ago, I kept leaning towards endurance sports and I decided to walk from Sydney to Brisbane in 19 days to set a world record.”

It was during this gruelling challenge that sparked a chain of events that would change Jordan’s life.

He contracted a viral infection that spread to his heart that subsequently turned into acute myocarditis: “I was very egotistical –I wanted to prove everyone was wrong,” recalls Jordan, who went on to train for another event: “I was with my coach and the next thing I knew, I woke up in an ambulance. My whole world was turned upside down. I had been a longdistance, endurance athlete and there I was with a heart that was unbelievably fragile.”

Turning away from endurance pursuits, Jordan turned to more intellectual interests, reading and the creative arts: “Looking back it was all part of my journey. Without the heart problem I would never have learnt so much – being still, forced me to learn about myself. I became a different man.”

With great relief Jordan was eventually ‘signed off’ by his Australian cardio team: “I was fine,” he says. “I was ready for another adventure!”

This time Jordan and a friend decided to stand-up paddle-board from Newcastle in Australia to Sydney – a 10-day epic journey that saw them boarding through white shark waters and taking turns to nap. The challenge was a success – however Jordan was later to learn that he had been unaware of the danger it had posed to his health.

Moving to the UK, two years ago, the cold weather sparked the return of myocarditis, which he learnt had never really gone away: “On reflection I should never have done the paddle board challenge,” says Jordan, who was treated by a specialist cardiology team at the renowned St George’s Hospital, London. “They are an amazing team! I have now got my life back on track.” n

In order to raise money for the British Heart Foundation Jordan’s latest 1700km ‘thisismyheart’ challenge will take place from 1st to 30th June when he arrives back in Brighton. To see how you can join him on his journey a link will appear on social media.

thisismyheart23

EPIC ADVENTURE

six from Cumbria and a billy from Skipton, and I was away.”

A DIFFERENCE!

’ve never met a farmer who doesn’t love his stock,” states Heber Hargreaves, showing me into a modern barn which is deep-littered in pristine straw. His attractive Boer goats approach with curiosity and he points out individuals: “This one’s Teabag,” he smiles. “The kids called her that, because she nicks your brews.” The herd’s parti-coloured coats are spotless and shine with health. Despite their numbering around 60, the only smell is of hay.

Heber’s earliest memories are of helping with his family’s animals on their Great Mitton smallholding and he still keeps small numbers of Herdwicks and Ryelands as well as a few Oxford Sandy and Black pigs and a flock of Marans, famous for their chocolate-coloured eggs. As soon he was old enough, Heber was consolidating his stockman’s skills on Ribble Valley farms then, in 2018, Heber and his wife Rebecca acquired Eaves Hall Farm. In the last five years they have invested in improving the

land and erecting modern barns – but I am keen to know why they chose to farm goats: “We’d bought 15 wet acres,” Heber chuckles. “And I had to make them pay. I looked down south to where goat farming is a much more common practice and I decided to buy two does from Keighley. After that, I got another

FARMING WITH “I

Like all enthusiasts, Heber is keen to talk about his passion: “Boer goats are calm and easy to handle,” he says. “They can breed at any time of year, they mature quickly and they have an excellent meat to bone ratio.” He names goat breeders up and down the country and studs in Australia and South Africa, where the Boer breed originated: “Some of my goats were imported as embryos,” he says. “These goats are the direct descendants of the best prize-winning stock in the world.”

Improving the Boer breed is Heber’s driving ambition: “I’m already on the UK breeders’ map,” he says, adding that he doesn’t like to blow his own trumpet. “It’s only the stock that isn’t up to standard that I’m selling for meat.”

With that, he introduces me to his billy goat, Gollum.

Gollum is impressive. He has a noble Roman profile and his curved horns follow the domed line of his skull. He is wandering affably with his son, Alan, and several other males at different stages of maturity. His look is both benign and disdainful: “Gollum’s offspring are outstanding,” Heber says warmly. “Whatever happens, he is not going anywhere.”

Heber sells his meat to local butchers, including Roy Porter at Chatburn and he

Catherine Robinson meets a Ribble Valley farmer and his unusual Ribble Valley herd

SOME OF MY GOATS ARE THE DIRECT DESCENDANTS OF THE BEST PRIZE-WINNING STOCK IN THE WORLD

hopes it will soon be on the menu at a local restaurant. Amateur chef, Chris Smith of @woodfiredfeaster is a regular customer who is currently creating goat-inspired street-food menus. Heber describes the taste as falling as somewhere between lamb and beef: “It’s a lean meat,” he adds. “It’s even lower in cholesterol than chicken.” n

BREADED RACK OF GOAT

Ingredients

1 French trimmed rack of goat

1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard

1 cup of breadcrumbs seasoned with zest of one lemon, pinch of black pepper, pinch of flaky sea salt, a pinch of crushed dried chilli, a tablespoon of finely chopped parsley, half teaspoon finely chopped rosemary, half a teaspoon of cumin

Method

Season the rack of goat with salt and pepper then pan fry it on a high heat in a little oil to seal and brown the outside.

Let it cool slightly then spread the mustard all over it and coat with the breadcrumb mixture.

Place on a roasting rack and cook in a pre-heated oven at 200ºC until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the internal temperature of the meat is around 57ºC.

Remove from the oven, cover loosely with foil and let it rest in a warm place for 10 minutes.

Slice the cutlets from the rack and serve on warm herb and vegetable couscous with a lemony yoghurt dressing, freshly chopped coriander and parsley.

Eaves Hall Farm

Eaves Hall Lane West Bradford eaveshallfarm@gmail.com

IT’S A LEAN MEAT, AND IT’S EVEN LOWER IN CHOLESTEROL THAN CHICKEN

CHEF’S TABLE ALFRESCO

To herald the start of summer, a stunning alfresco menu has been launched at The Three Fishes, where guests can enjoy dining at the exclusive outdoor Chef’s Table

Set amid some of the most beautiful countryside in the Ribble Valley, the Garden Terrace at The Three Fishes is the perfect spot to spend dreamy summer days and evenings, enjoying the most delicious seasonal dishes and refreshing drinks. With the kitchen garden springing to life in the sunshine, fresh ingredients are hand-picked daily and curated into farm-to-fork fine dining dishes by Chef Patron, Nigel Haworth and his team.

A delicious plant-based menu is always available alongside every choice menu and seasonal menu, offering an option for every dietary preference at The Three Fishes. When the Ribble Valley sunshine comes out, English tapas small plates on the terrace and Thursday BBQ nights at The Three Fishes (from mid-June) are not to be missed. And if there’s a

dip in temperature, wrap up in a Three Fishes fleece blanket to make the most of the longer nights outdoors, while sipping on sundowners. The Three Fishes Garden Cocktail celebrates the best of the growing garden, expertly blended into a delicious tipple making it the go-to sip of the season. The cocktail features Cuckoo Signature gin, apple, lime and lemon juices and garnished with handpicked herbs, straight from the garden – organic mint, basil, rosemary, lemon balm, anise hyssop and glittered tree spinach. For special occasions and larger group gatherings, the private dining room at

NIBBLES AND DRINKS ON THE TERRACE

Served from 7th June (sample menu)

CROQUETTE £8.50

Cornfed chicken, summer truffle, honey mustard dip.

HOUMOUS £6.50

Black pea, five-seed bread crisps.

FRITTERS £6.50

Cauliflower, curried mayonnaise.

MORECAMBE BAY

FISH BALLS (3) £8.50  Spicy dip.

CHEF’S TABLE ALFRESCO MENU

FRIDAY & SATURDAY

LUNCH & DINNER

From Friday 9th June – £95 per head

Minimum 8 and maximum 12 guests, booked on a first come basis

BREAD and SNACKS

Sour dough breads, whey butter and pesto.

HALF BBQ LOBSTER*

Herb and garlic butter, salad of little gem hearts, caesar dressing.

WHOLE ROAST AGED FILLET OF BEEF*

Marinated in mustard and spices, coleslaw, roasted new potatoes, seasonal vegetables.

ETON MESS

New seasons strawberries, bound in jersey cream and meringue.

COFFEE AND ECCLES CAKES

Salted chocolate truffles.

*PB alternative available

The Three Fishes is the perfect setting to celebrate over the best dishes of the season in an intimate environment indoors, while the chef’s table outdoors offers a group garden setting on the terrace throughout the summer. Bring your nearest and dearest and don’t forget to book your four-legged friend a place too, with dogs welcome to join your table anytime outdoors and for lunch service, inside. Known for his ‘food with roots’ cooking style, Nigel’s reimagined restaurant will take you on a special, culinary journey of exceptional food and perfectly paired wines. A sun-soaked lunch or a sunset dinner, enjoy exceptional dining and drinks at The Three Fishes this summer. n

Three Fishes Mitton Road, Mitton, Clitheroe BB7 9PQ 01254 826666 reservations@thethreefishes.co.uk thethreefishes.co.uk

thethreefishesmitton

thethreefishesmitton

3fishesmitton

The

have been a good choice.

I stayed with the fish theme and thoroughly enjoyed cod with a smoked butter sauce and creamy mash. Gill and Miguel both chose a rather generous ox cheek, onion and mushroom suet pudding, the oozing unctuous Guinness gravy perfectly accompanied by salted, piping hot crinkle chips and devoured by two very happy diners.

COOKING UP A STORM

The Rum Fox is literally cooking up a storm – it’s certainly hit the ground running and has genuinely propelled itself to being one of the most popular restaurants in the Ribble Valley, writes

It’s rare Liz and I leave our seaside base at the weekend, but we were invited to The Rum Fox by our good friends Gill and Miguel and we simply had to see what all the fuss was about.

Much has already been mentioned about the refurbishment and décor and this is immediately obvious on arrival – it has a great atmosphere and I noticed a few familiar faces in the experienced team that chef patron Bob Geldeard has assembled.

What I really want to talk about is the food –it was really very good, the menu has a host of excellent options and was supplemented by a small seasonal specials board. I know Liz had taken a sneaky look beforehand and

had chosen a light smoked salmon starter with pickled cucumber and this was a lovely way to prepare for the main event. Her choice of one of the hand-crafted pies of chicken, ham hock and leek was literally packed full of the delicious filling and served with Bob’s

The desserts looked divine but apart from Miguel, who has a very sweet tooth, we had to decline – maybe on our next visit we’ll leave some room though having seen what was on offer I’d have been hard pressed to choose – all of them sounded truly delicious. The food, service and atmosphere were excellent and for me, achieved the perfect storm. As we left, I noticed just how many customers were re-booking for a future date including our friend Gill. If you are yet to try The Rum Fox I’d urge you to get it on your ‘to do’ list – sooner rather than later!

My top tip is to consider a weekday lunch –a full menu is available and it’s easier to get a table. n

I STAYED WITH THE FISH THEME AND THOROUGHLY ENJOYED COD WITH A SMOKED BUTTER SAUCE AND CREAMY MASH

signature crinkle cut chips and veggies. My pappardelle with Morecambe bay cockles, chosen from the specials, was an amazing dish. Looking back perhaps a side of bread and butter to mop up the sauce would also

Tedd Walmsley

A la carte, sandwich and salad menus available all days, except Sunday

Lunch Time Treats Menu: Wednesday to Saturday 12 – 2pm

Tea Time Treats Menu: Wednesday to Friday 6-7pm • £15.50 2 courses and £20 3 courses Sunday Lunch:12 noon – 6.30pm • £26 2 courses and £32 3 courses

FOOD SERVING HOURS

Monday to Tuesday CLOSED

Wednesday to Saturday 12 noon to 2pm and 6pm to 9pm

Sunday – 12 noon to 6:30pm

COME AND JOIN US...

Outdoor seating area for drinks and food. 10 beautiful bedrooms also available from £100 per night bed and breakfast.

Booking recommended 01200 443339

Coworth Park with one Michelin star, The Vineyard at Stockcross, which has two Michelin stars and Cliveden House Hotel.

A pre-dinner drink in the bar whilst perusing the menu is almost compulsory at Gilpin, in our case it was their 10-course tasting menu. This was to be fine dining at its very best, a clever combination of subtlety and big flavours with each delicious course. The snacks at the beginning of the meal set

STELLAR LINE-UP

Catering College he went on to work for Marcus Wareing for nine years, followed by the three Michelin-starred Eleven Madison Park in New York, the Michelin-starred Davies & Brook at Claridges and Restaurant Gordon Ramsay with three Michelin stars.

the scene perfectly for our epic food journey. If forced to choose a favourite course, it would probably have to be the roast Scottish lobster served with lettuce peanuts and chilli, whilst not a combination I’d had before it really was superb. We rested between savoury and sweet finale and reflected on some amazing cooking and perfect wine pairings – a dinner such as this needs to be savoured, taken slowly and enjoyed course by course.

The puddings were a perfect end to a stellar meal – perhaps the most important update from Gilpin is that SOURCE alongside the other restaurants, Gilpin Spice and Knipe Grill at Gilpin Lake House, can now all be enjoyed by non-residents.

Liz and I didn’t need a second invitation to try the new tasting menu at SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel, created by SOURCE’s new Executive Chef Ollie Bridgwater.

The restaurant not only has a new Executive Chef but also a new name ‘SOURCE’ – very apt, as owners Barney and Zoe Cunliffe shared with me their vision to create the most delicious, sustainable and ethical dishes.

Ollie Bridgwater has an excellent CV and pedigree having worked alongside Heston Blumenthal at The Fat Duck for more than 10 years. His training, development and innovation have created a host of new techniques and skills to add so much to the culinary offering at Gilpin.

His Head Chef, Jack Bond, has an equally impressive CV – having studied at Southport

Before I talk about the food, I want to give a big shout out to the excellent front of house team. Whilst young, they are all professional, energetic, passionate and knowledgeable about the food and wine. They also had personalities and an eagerness to engage – these are a great group who contributed to what turned out to be an incredible evening.

Since our visit, the team has been joined by Thomas Mercier as Restaurant Manager, who brings a wealth of friendly charm as well as incredible experience from three Michelin-starred L’Enclume, Michael Wignall at The Latymer with two Michelin stars,

Having made the journey many times from the Ribble Valley, broadly 60 minutes sees you parking up on the Gilpin car park – this is one journey you’re definitely going to want to make. Ollie and his brigade are going to drive forward over the next year that’s for sure – having retained the coveted Michelin star recently I’d be keeping a close eye on them in the months ahead. n

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

An epic food journey with a stellar line-up of amazing dishes, the new tasting menu at SOURCE is an experience not to be missed, writes Tedd Walmsley

SOURCE ALONG WITH GILPIN SPICE AND KNIPE GRILL AT GILPIN LAKE HOUSE, CAN NOW ALL BE ENJOYED BY NON-RESIDENTS

BRAND NEW SPA SPACE AT GILPIN HOTEL ENJOY SPA & SPICE!

Escape to the brand new Gilpin Spa Space for a few hours of love, laughter and tranquil bliss in the Lakes, away from the noise of the world. Relax into the morning with a couples’ treatment at our new Spa Space at Gilpin Hotel, followed by a chilled glass of Champagne in the outdoor cedarwood hot tub, with gorgeous views of the fells... And to finish? A fabulous lunch in Gilpin Spice.

£290 FOR TWO PEOPLE, INCLUDING ALL OF THE ABOVE (£70 ALLOCATION FOR LUNCH AT GILPIN SPICE) ALSO AVAILABLE AS GIFT VOUCHERS THEGILPIN.CO.UK/GIFTS.

ALL SET FOR SUMMER

‘Food glorious food’. This old Lionel Bart classic always come into my head whenever I visit the Black Bull at Old Langho. Our recent return visit with friends Andy and Lynn, for Sunday lunch, was once again superb, ably looked after by the fantastic front of house team, who are always so friendly and simply want to make every element of the dining experience special.

Sunday is always a busy one at the Black Bull and their robust Sunday roasts never disappoint. Their attention to detail, consistency and flavours are as good as it gets in the Ribble Valley and are a feast for both the eyes and the belly. Our empty plates bore testimony to that!

There is an amazing young and very talented chef that I want to praise and the

Sunday lunch never disappoints at the Black Bull, which is gearing up for summer with its fabulous alfresco dining options, writes Tedd Walmsley. Photography: Roger Moore

man who is also behind the evolution of the extensive menu. Callum is a young chef

THE WONDERFUL SAIL SHAPED CANOPY PROVIDES SHADE ALONGSIDE HEATERS AND BLANKETS TO TAKE THE EDGE OFF A COOL RIBBLE VALLEY EVENING

bursting with ideas and a huge asset to owners Becky and Jamie Govier. It’s easy to wax lyrical about the pub classics, doorstep

sandwiches and grazing boards all of which are great, but there’s so much more to the current menu. Becky encourages Callum and his team to express themselves with a selection of inspired dishes that change frequently and which are usually determined by the availability and seasonality of the fresh ingredients.

We, the diners, are of course the beneficiaries and can currently choose from a host of fresh fish and seafood, stunning salads and sweet treats. As we move into early summer the other key asset is the pub, which comes

more to the fore with the outdoor alfresco dining area adding another set of options to the mix. For those of us who enjoy eating outdoors, simply enjoying a bottle of wine, cocktails or a cold beer on a hot day, this is the place to be. The wonderful sail shaped canopy provides shade alongside heaters and blankets to take the edge off a cool Ribble Valley evening and its often the place for live music, fresh pizza or a barbecue and the preferred lunch spot for many.

Becky of course will never stand still and as we speak, is planning a host of events around the bank holiday and will no doubt communicate these via their very effective social media platforms. Becky is not one to be underestimated and the combination of a fine building and outdoor area isn’t just by chance – it’s through commitment, passion, investment and sometimes just sheer bloody-mindedness, but it’s a cracking formula and one to be admired.

I think you’ll be thrilled with any visit you make across the seven-day opening and whenever you go, you’ll always be made welcome. n

Old Langho Road, Old Langho BB6 8AW 01254 248801

enquiries@theblackbulloldlangho.co.uk

theblackbulloldlangho.co.uk

The Black Bull

THEIR ATTENTION TO DETAIL, CONSISTENCY AND FLAVOURS ARE AS GOOD AS IT GETS IN THE RIBBLE VALLEY AND ARE A FEAST FOR BOTH THE EYES AND THE BELLY

Please be advised that any allergens and intolerances should be reported to Yu Express before placing an order. Customers should be aware that although all due care is taken, there is a risk of allergen ingredients still being present.

ETHICAL FARMING… RIGHT ON OUR DOORSTEP

Catherine Robinson talks to local entrepreneur, mushroom farmer Paul Thornton, who has ecological credentials and a vision for the future

“It all started with my grandma Ruth,” says Paul Thornton. “She used to show me how to grow things in her garden. I loved it. That led to me growing oyster mushrooms. In 2001 I built something that looked like it was from Frankenstein’s lab and it worked!”

As often happens though, life got in the way for Paul and he found himself on a career treadmill with no time for hobbies –until lockdown: “While other people were learning to knit or play the piano, I was flooding the kitchen with greenhouse-tents, heaters and humidifiers,” he laughs. “It was

a problem-solving exercise! The same species of mushroom, grown in exactly the same conditions from the same mycelium might fruit differently. You have to nurture them –

and dementia. Mushrooms are a good source of fibre and protein too. They’re antioxidant and they reduce cholesterol –especially shiitake.”

WE’VE SET UP A DELIVERY SERVICE AROUND GARSTANG AND MY NEXT STEP IS MUSHROOMS BY POST

Paul, a topographical surveyor by profession, litters his enthusiastic chatter with the scientific jargon of his passion:

it’s almost maternal. Now, I’m growing oyster mushrooms, shiitake, enoki, shimeji and lion’s mane – to name just a few. Did you know that the lion’s mane are nootropic? They enhance brain function and help with conditions like Parkinson’s disease

“I start with the spores, or the mycelium, which is a fine white filament, and I culture them on agar plates. Then I inoculate a rye bag with the agar and whilst the mycelium is colonising that, I’m sterilising the substrate –bags of soya hulls and oak sawdust – which mimics a woodland. This substrate is then inoculated with colonised rye grain and left in

the germination room for up to three months until I move them to the fruiting area, which has the perfect conditions for fruiting.”

Eventually, and with the encouragement of his girlfriend Hayley, Paul rented a lock-up on a local farm and whilst both were still in full time jobs, they began building Wyreside Mushrooms. Progression was slow until June 2022 when everything changed: “I broke my ankle,” Paul explains. “I couldn’t do my surveying job. But it turned out to be a blessing in disguise.”

IF WE HAD A VERTICAL FARM, WITH SOLAR PANELS FOR ELECTRICITY AND A LAKE TO GROW AQUAPONIC CROPS, WE COULD PRODUCE ALL YEAR ROUND, WITH ALMOST NO ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

After a couple of weeks of immobility, Paul was able to potter around the lock-up on a crutch and it was then that the farm really started to take shape. Paul was able to build the lab and germination room and become compliant with Local Council requirements: “We had to use all our savings,” he admits. “Ideally, we’d like to have 10 acres of woodland too, because species like morel and chanterelle only grow in symbiosis with trees.”

This visionary has bigger dreams than that though: “If we had a vertical farm, with solar panels for electricity and a lake to grow aquaponic crops, we could produce all year round, with almost no environmental impact. Feeding populations like that also frees up land for rewilding and helps to reverse climate change.”

Paul is now a full-time mushroom farmer and in 2023, Wyreside Mushrooms is recording record sales. He has applied for organic accreditation and set up a delivery service around Garstang: “Our next step is mushrooms by post,” he says. “Our website is under construction and we’ll soon be posting all over the UK.”

Wyreside Mushrooms currently supplies local shops and restaurants: “But we’ll sell our mushrooms to anyone who wants them!” Paul laughs. “Just give us a ring or contact us through our Facebook page.” n

FRIED OYSTER MUSHROOMS

150g oyster mushrooms

11/2 cups plain flour

11/2 tsp paprika

11/2 tsp garlic powder

11/2 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

tsp salt

Pepper to taste

Mix the flour and all the spices together in a large bowl.

In a second bowl, add 1/3 cup of the flour mixture with 3 /4 cups of water. Whisk to a smooth batter.

Dip each mushroom into the mixture then into the flour mixture. Repeat a few times.

Heat some oil to a high temperature and carefully drop the mushrooms into the oil one at a time. Fry for a few minutes until golden on all sides. Place on a paper towel to remove excess oil, then on a cooling rack until the rest are done. Enjoy with your favourite dipping sauce!

A MEAL, A MOMENT, A MEMORY

Fence Gate is proud to be a destination venue for its award-winning food, accommodation and private hire offering, attracting people from across the UK to its doors – and with its recent high-profile accolades, it really is no wonder

Fence Gate Lodge has once again achieved a coveted Five Gold Star rating from the AA for its accommodation, for the fourth consecutive year, while its Brasserie, housed in the Fence Gate Inn, has also retained its AA Rosette for dining for the fourth time, placing it in the elite 10 per cent of restaurants from across the country who can boast such an accolade.

The AA Rosette Award recognised the Brasserie is achieving standards that stand out in the local area, with food prepared with care, understanding and skill, using good quality ingredients – thus making it the perfect place to meet with family and friends to celebrate an occasion or just to come together over some delicious food.

For people travelling from out of area, or visiting friends and family in the Ribble Valley, Fence Gate Lodge features a 24-bedroom hotel with stunning suites, a luxury apartment and a function room and was recently crowned winner of the Perfect Stay Award at the coveted Lancashire Tourism Awards for the second year. The lodge received the AA Five Gold Star rating for its commitment to quality furnishings, service and attention to detail and a further Breakfast Award from the AA for an exemplary breakfast offering.

To date the exclusive venue has hosted charity balls, birthday celebrations, fashion shows, corporate dinners, award ceremonies and proms and is proud to be considered a much sought-after Lancashire wedding venue of choice.

Enhancing its wedding offering, Fence Gate has recently opened its wedding garden, awash with colour in the summer months, providing the perfect backdrop to a special day. The garden area, purposefully devoid of grass to avoid sinking heals, is ideal for reception drinks and evening alfresco dining set against a folly backdrop with a nod to stunning historic architecture.

No matter the reason for your visit to Fence Gate, it is likely you will leave with a lasting memory and a plan to return. n

Function rooms for all occasions

From lavish soirees to an intimate gathering or wow-factor wedding, the Fence Gate also boasts four individual, but equally special, rooms that can host from 10 to 250 guests for all types of events or celebrations. As with its restaurant and accommodation, Fence Gate’s venue offering is no different in terms of quality, with each individual event overseen by a team of experienced experts.

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

Oldfield’s biggest hit single – on the 50th anniversary album, which reached number one in iTunes’ classical music charts.

With captivating vocals, star quality and stage presence, Ella has been described by Simon Cowell as: “Mega, mega talented!”

Ella says: “After Britain’s Got Talent I decided to take a different direction –I wanted to inspire kids to follow their dreams. I was also mindful that singing was good for health and wellbeing.”

Ella made the decision to set up the Ella Shaw Academy for Arts at The Grand in Clitheroe, for students aged from four to 18 –and fast forward to the present day the academy is thriving: “During the pandemic I was listening to podcasts about how children’s mental health had declined. I was really keen that the academy would boost children’s confidence, give them something that they really enjoyed,” explains Ella, who has also seen her own singing career re-ignited. She recently appeared on an international All Stars Got Talent TV show aired on Spanish TV.

“I really enjoyed recording that – it was very different from Britain’s Got Talent as I felt I didn’t need to prove myself. I performed with other people from all over the world and

TAKING CENTRE STAGE

Described by Simon Cowell as ‘mega talented’, singer Ella Shaw has recently appeared with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in London and in an international ‘all-stars’ TV show in Madrid

With a performance on Britain’s Got Talent catapulting her into the national spotlight eight years ago, singer and international performer Ella Shaw has come a long way.

Ella was 18 when she appeared on the show singing one of her own songs. Today she has gained respect from some of the biggest names in showbusiness.

Five years ago, Ribble Valley-based Ella founded one of the most successful academies for the performing arts, which she says will be her legacy: “I love it that the kids really respect what I do. It gives me a real buzz that they can see a whole new world when they

come to the academy,” says Ella, who recently appeared with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at the Royal Albert Hall to mark the 50th anniversary of Mike Oldfield’s Tubular Bells. Ella sings Moonlight Shadow –

they also featured footage of the Ella Shaw Academy on TV, which was great.

“The judges said what I had done was a huge achievement, which made me quite emotional!

“One of the reasons I took part in the show, which was filmed in Madrid, was to show the kids what they can achieve.”

Ella has also been delighted to be recently named as an ambassador for Child Action North West (CANW) which commented:

“We are proud to have Ella as an ambassador of CANW. Her strong character and determination is an inspiration to all the children and young people our services support. Our work relies upon influential members of the community to join us in addressing a systemic problem by becoming supporters of our charity – without it we wouldn’t be able to run our services or reach the children and young people that need us most.”

IT HAS BEEN THE BEST FIVE YEARS OF MY ENTIRE CAREER

With 200 youngsters and further expansion planned later this year, Ella and her students are currently working on a glittering production of Sister Act Junior.

“I am heavily involved in the academy professionally – it gives me so much fulfilment. I can see the difference in the confidence of the youngsters who come here. Many were really lost after the pandemic, but the academy has made them feel like they belong.

“It has been the best five years of my entire career. I have seen shy and reserved kids literally find their voices when they perform.”

With Kathryn Maye-Cavaleri directing the production of Sister Act Junior on 9th and 10th June, Ella admits that the project, which has two casts of 30, has been a challenge: “I have just been so busy – the academy has taken off and my singing career has taken off –my whole life at the moment is working, which is good!” says Ella, who has a former student now working for the academy as a teaching assistant – plus a former student was recently chosen to appear in a new show involving Alicia Keys.

“It’s amazing! Believe me, there is a lot of talent here in the Ribble Valley!” n

The academy’s production is based on the Touchstone Pictures Motion Picture ‘Sister Act’ written by Joseph Howard. Sister Act JR.

is represented through special arrangement with, and all authorised materials supplied by, Music Theatre International

BELIEVE ME, THERE IS A LOT OF TALENT HERE IN THE RIBBLE VALLEY!

GOOD READ

Lauren Molyneux curls up with a good book to review a latest best seller

OTHER PEOPLE’S CLOTHES

Calla Henkel

It’s 2009. Facebook is well and truly taking off, mobile phone cameras are improving and it seems everyone is living their life merely so it can be shared online.

Zoe feels trapped, her identity too closely linked to that of her dead best friend, Ivy – stabbed 14 times by a stranger. Her grief is driving her to make unwise decisions, like sleeping with Ivy’s long-term ex-boyfriend the day of her funeral. Stuck delivering uninspired art for her degree in New York, she needs to separate herself from the trauma and discover a new inspiration.

Then she’s accepted to study for a year abroad in Berlin, and everything changes. Hailey, Zoe’s new roommate and muse, is beautiful, confident, charismatic, rich, driven and self-assured, outshining Zoe in every way. When the pair land a gorgeous 1920s apartment owned by famous crime writer Beatrice Becks, they can’t believe their luck – it’s the perfect setting for them to ‘come of age’, drinking red wine and creating their art.

But it soon becomes clear they’re being watched and it’s only a matter of time before they’ll lose control of their own narrative.

Desperate, humorous and intoxicating, Other People’s Clothes is an early-2000’s fever-dream, psychological thriller driven by the chaos and hedonism of Berlin’s underground club scene. Brimming with fleshed-out characters, all fundamentally flawed, it’s a story about image and how a person can lose themselves in pursuit of perfection.

It’s about how an authentic image is notoriously difficult to arrive at and how everyone in their early twenties is in desperate search of it – and how authenticity and a true sense of self is sacrificed in favour of it. It’s about how image, and the desperation of establishing and maintaining it, can ultimately lead to the most dramatic of downfalls.

Combining key ideas from the world of art, music, photography and history, Other People’s Clothes explores the stories these mediums tell us about ourselves, shining a revealing spotlight on female relationships, female friendships, female adoration and female sexuality at regular intervals.

Henkel’s debut novel examines how we’re intrinsically driven by narrative and the need for a ‘good’ story. Refreshingly complex, detailed and assured in her writing style, Henkel’s tale is one of warning – about how narrative can come to consume us, about the narratives we choose to tell ourselves and how easily –and unexpectedly – they can take over. n

LEIGH LAMBERT

Taking inspiration from his own upbringing in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, Leigh’s artwork has a strong sense of nostalgia, which evokes precious memories of childhood that many of us can relate to.

The Crash Bang Wallop! collection takes us back to a bygone era when playing games on the street and finding new ways to entertain ourselves with ‘found’ items, was an everyday occurrence. We observe moments of joy, as the children create their own fun with a home-made go-cart and the inevitable mischief that was sure to follow once construction was complete and the brakes were off, (if indeed they were ever on!). Leigh’s work reminds us of a different time, of a cultural era that has long since passed and for many, acts as a vestige of wonderful, treasured memories.

Please call into the gallery on Berry Lane or contact the gallery for more details.

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

Crash

Bang

Wallop

Crash, Bang, Wallop!

IN THE WILD

Professional artist Michael Demain has travelled the globe to observe wildlife, but his favourite place is the Forest of Bowland

Working as a delivery driver many years ago, Michael Demain’s life took a remarkable, unexpected turn when he arrived at an address in Oswaldtwistle.

It was the home of UK-renowned artist Steven Townsend: “When I saw one of his paintings on the wall I said, ‘That’s what I want to do’,” recalls Michael. “He suggested I paint something and he would give me an honest opinion.”

complete, he took it to show Steven: “He looked at it, smiled and said, ‘Yes, carry on’.”

That was more than three decades ago and over that time, Michael has sold his paintings to collectors all over the world.

more opportunity to paint.

Having a particular interest in wildlife, painting birds and animals in their natural habitat was a progression that led Michael to turn professional just four years after he first began painting: “I love travelling the world to see animals in their natural surroundings. It gives me great joy as well as great subject matter.

Michael, who was in his early 30s, had never painted before. But he went away and embarked on his first work of art. Once

“After showing my work to Steve, I took his advice and carried on as I wanted to improve. I was getting home after work and painting every night,” says Michael, who held his first exhibition at Haworth Art Gallery in Accrington.

“I exhibited 30 paintings and sold more than half, it was really successful,” says Michael, who decided to quit his full-time job and take a part-time post in order to give him

I LOVE TRAVELLING THE WORLD TO SEE ANIMALS IN THEIR NATURAL SURROUNDINGS. IT GIVES ME GREAT JOY AS WELL AS GREAT SUBJECT MATTER

“I take reference photographs and use several to make a painting. The light dictates the composition, so I think very carefully about it,” says Michael, who paints in oils or acrylic.

“Which ever medium I use depends on the subject – sometimes a certain subject lends itself to a specific medium.”

Michael’s love of wildlife has taken him and a group of friends throughout Europe and most recently to Spitsbergen in the High Arctic: “We have seen some totally unexpected things – it’s always wonderful!

“In Spitsbergen there was snow in July, it’s a really wild place. You have to carry a gun at all times – but we didn’t see any polar bears. We did see some walrus, which we hadn’t expected. We also saw pink-footed geese up there on their breeding grounds, in their natural habitat.”

While Michael is happy to travel the world, his favourite place is the Forest of Bowland and for many years, he has worked closely with the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) monitoring endangered species such as the hen harrier, peregrine falcon and merlin, on the Bowland Estate.

As part of the team, Michael helps find the nests of these endangered species and monitors them in order that they are not disturbed: “In a typical day we find where the birds are settling. At the beginning of March, we start locating pairs and as the season progresses, they start to lay their eggs. When I first started as seasonal warden 12 years ago, there were no hen harriers. Last year we had 11 successful nests on the estate,

so that’s really rewarding to see.”

Over the years Michael, who is represented by Carnes Fine Art, has sold many originals and limited edition prints, his work going to collectors in Alaska, Australia, New Zealand and New York: “I once did a painting of a goshawk chasing a partridge – the bird that featured was a falconer’s bird so the original photograph of the bird had jesses (ankle ties) on.

‘Just one request, can you put jesses on the bird?’ I couldn’t believe it! If I had painted the ties on originally, I couldn’t have removed them – it would have been impossible. However, it was relatively easy to add them, so he was happy!”

Michael, who is due to retire from his work with the RSPB later this year, will continue to paint: “I will carry on, but I am not a prolific artist. I feel less pressure now, so I paint what I want to paint – I don’t paint for the market. At times it’s a bit of a battle as it’s all about self-motivation. But I am very lucky to enjoy doing what I do.” n

“I thought I would have more chance selling the painting without the jesses on,” recalls Michael, who subsequently received a phone call from a collector in New York.

“He wanted to buy the painting but said,

michaeldemainwildlifeart.co.uk

THE HIGH ARCTIC IS A REALLY WILD PLACE. YOU HAVE TO CARRY A GUN AT ALL TIMES – BUT WE DIDN’T SEE ANY POLAR BEARS

Ben Ark - Cityscapes Exhibition

Saturday 1st July 2023

Carnes Fine Art are proud to host Ben Ark’s first ever solo exhibition. AN EVENT NOT TO BE MISSED!

Ben will be at the gallery 11:00am - 4:00pm, please come and join us!

To register your interest in this prestigious event please contact Carnes Fine Art.

Ben says – “I’m delighted to be holding my first solo exhibition with Carnes Fine Art. It is a real honour to be sharing this moment with a fantastic gallery that has supported and championed my work since the start.

I’ve created a new collection of cityscapes that will showcase the region and my northern roots, including Liverpool waterfront and the industrial landscape of Manchester. I look forward to catching up with art lovers old and new.”

Carnes Fine Art, Cedar Farm, Back Lane, Mawdesley, Lancashire L40 3SY

Tower View, Deansgate, Manchester - Original Mixed Media Painting

George Parade, Liverpool - Original Mixed Media Painting

Are you looking to let a property?

Our extensive experience, expertise and skills ensure our diverse range of clients are guaranteed access to a flexible and efficient lettings and management service. Our specialised lettings team has an in-depth knowledge of legal requirements enabling us to offer all aspects of lettings management.

Jessica Driscoll has recently joined Armitstead Barnett to take the helm of the lettings section of the Agency Department.

Jessica has many years’ experience in lettings management and offers a great depth of knowledge of legislation and can handle all things associated with the lettings section. Jessica leads our strong dedicated team, who strive for excellence, delivering high standards of service across all four offices, working on traditional values with a modern approach.

Thornley Rd, Chaigley

Offers in the Region: £675,000

A character farmhouse set in a fabulous rural location with spacious accommodation, large driveway, 3.2 acre field plus small paddock.

With scope to modernise, this is a superb property for those seeking their own slice of rural life or smallholding. The location is particularly convenient, just a short drive from both Clitheroe and Longridge and their many amenities.

Hothersall Lane, Preston

Offers Over: £1,100,000

A beautifully presented stone-built home set in showstopping gardens and grounds extending to 4.83 acres along the desirable Hothersall Lane.

The spacious family accommodation includes three reception rooms and five bedrooms. The property has three fields and an area of woodland, garaging and outbuilding thus appealing to those with both agricultural or equestrian interests, or those who just wish to enjoy rural life.

Clitheroe Rd, Knowle Green

Offers in the Region: £2,750,000

An impressive, contemporary home with outstanding energy efficiency on the fringes of Longridge Fell.

With 756 sq m of well thought-out space, designed around a spectacular oak frame, plus 567 sq m outbuildings, this stunning six bedroom property is set in 7.4 acres of landscaped grounds and land on Longridge Fell and has the option of adding further land up to around 70 acres to suit.

Whalley

A truly superb four double bedroom family home

50 Moor Lane, Clitheroe, BB7 1AJ 01200 408408 clitheroe@stonesyoung.co.uk

The Old Post Office, 740 Whalley New Rd, Blackburn, BB1 9BA 01254 682470 enquiries@stonesyoung.co.uk

www.stonesyoung.co.uk

Shipton

A contemporary detached property in an enviable position

Superb plot with beautiful gardens

Barker

Beautiful stone built detached property

Extended family home boasting exceptional views

Saccary

Three double-bedroom stone built end cottage

Princess Street, Whalley,

Offers in the region of £392,950

Charming unique accommodation

Extensive modern family home on desirable plot

Hillcrest,

Three double-bedroom property with panoramic views

A remarkable, extended three-bedroom semi detached

Substantial, five-bedroom semi-detached home

Idyllic

stunning plot

Yarrow Crescent, Clitheroe, BB7 2FH Offers in the region of £420,000

Road, Wilpshire, BB1 9LJ £425,000

Road, Clitheroe, BB7 2RZ £430,000

Lane, Mellor, BB1 9DL £400,000

Lane, Mellor, BB2 7EE £420,000

Ribchester Road, Clayton-le-Dale, BB1 9EE £415,000

Langho, BB6 8EN £365,000

BB7 9SZ

Waterside Reach, Barrow, BB7 9XQ £380,000

Vicarage Lane, Wilpshire, BB1 9HX £360,000

Preston New Road, Mellor Brook, BB2 7NS £340,000

Kay Fold Lodge £325,000

stone-built barn conversion set on a

50 Moor Lane, Clitheroe, BB7 1AJ 01200 408408

clitheroe@stonesyoung.co.uk

www.stonesyoung.co.uk

The Old Post Office, 740 Whalley New Rd, Blackburn, BB1 9BA 01254 682470 enquiries@stonesyoung.co.uk

Eden Gardens, Old Langho, BB6 8HW

£995,000

Beautiful accommodation set over three floors

• Three spacious reception rooms

• Seven stunning bedrooms

• Eight bathrooms

• Double garage & extensive driveway

Mellor Brow, Mellor, BB2 7EX

£875,000

Planning permission granted for further development

• Five elegant bedrooms

• Admirable, generous gardens

• Picturesque views over the Ribble Valley

• Driveway parking for up to 10 cars

Priory Lodge, Pleasington, BB2 6RP

£725,000

Picturesque thatched cottage

• Full of character & charm throughout

• Set on an enviable plot

• Beautifully manicured mature gardens

• Double garage & driveway parking

Copsherds, Copster Green, BB1 9EW

OFFERS OVER £700,000

Extended detached family home

• Surrounded by open countryside & exceptional views

• Set on a three-quarter acre plot

• Four/five beautiful double bedrooms

• En-suite to master bedroom & bedroom two

The Rydings, Langho, BB6 8BQ

£595,000

Impeccable five bedroom detached

• Uninterrupted views towards Longridge Fell

• Generous master bedroom with en-suite

• Large double garage

• Extensive driveway with electric car charging point

Clitheroe Road, Mitton, BB7 9PH

£725,000

No onward chain delay

• Stone built cottage with two agricultural barns

• Unique & rare opportunity

• Outstanding rural views

• Idyllic picturesque location

WE ARE CELEBRATING!

The team at Fine & Country are celebrating the opening of a new Clitheroe office and an extremely positive start to 2023, with numerous new property listings

“This year started with a renewed sense of enthusiasm, with a positive outlook for the year ahead. Despite rising costs, there has been an increase in new property listings and viewings, although pricing remains crucial for timely sales,” says Jason Preston, who heads up Fine & Country’s Ribble Valley office.

“The area continues to be highly desirable due to limited supply, beautiful countryside, excellent schools and proximity to major business centres. The market appears more stable, with buyers and sellers making more informed decisions, a positive trend for the property market.”

Ribble Valley

At Fine & Country we do more than just value property, we maximise the value of your property by using a world beating combination of exposure, presentation and service to local, national and international audiences.

Exposure

Owners of the finest homes look to Fine & Country when they are looking for the largest,

most targeted audience for their property marketing, alongside the understanding and experience when it comes to marketing the finest homes in the most exclusive areas to a local, national and international audience.

luxury property agents because we are dedicated to valuing the little things that make a home.

Our clients come first. We provide an individual, premium service to help our clients achieve their dream move.

We offer an innovative approach and a range of traditional and digital services to our clients that are relevant to an ever-changing marketplace.

Local experts

Presentation

Clients appreciate their home being portrayed in the absolute best light, with a combination of professional photography and videography, as well as exquisite brochures where we can perfectly portray the unique details and lifestyle your home offers.

Service

Fine & Country continues to be the leading

Jason Preston leads Fine & Country’s Ribble Valley team and has extensive experience and knowledge in the luxury property market, having worked in the industry for many years. The team are also committed to supporting their local community, recently donating to Nightsafe through the Fine & Country Foundation, supporting local vulnerable young people by providing safe, overnight accommodation.

The new Fine & Country office is now located in the heart of Clitheroe, where our team are ready to welcome you and discuss how they can help with your next move. n

Yew Tree Farm is a superb family home occupying a convenient yet quiet location perfect for commuting and with all local amenities easily on hand. The house has been substantially upgraded and improved over the years and now offers spacious and usable accommodation with four bedrooms and four reception rooms. The property is set within private mature gardens and grounds including an orchard and pond and with land extending to approximately three acres, there are superb rural views. Externally there is ample parking in a superb private courtyard giving access to a large double garage. Inspection advised. EPC – E

A substantial five-bedroom family home located on the outskirts of the popular village of Whalley in the heart of the Ribble Valley. Built late 2016, this property has been beautifully upgraded with smart technology and improved by the current owners to a very high standard and inspection will not disappoint. Set within a generous plot, which due to orientation, attracts sunshine for most of the day to the garden and terrace areas. The house has a private gated driveway to the front which has ample parking and turning as well as a double garage. Internally the house is spacious and briefly consists of hallway, living room, sitting room, dining room, WC open plan kitchen, pantry and utility room. To the first floor there are five bedrooms (including cinema room) and four bathrooms. The master suite is a large double and has a dressing room, contemporary en suite bathroom and a balcony overlooking the rear garden. Outside to the rear is a substantial and private garden with terrace, hot tub enclosure, bar area and summerhouse. EPC – B. PROOF OF FUNDING REQUIRED PRIOR TO VIEWING

WHALLEY, BB7 9YD £1,750,000

A NEW WAY OF LIVING IN

BARROWFORD…

The village of Barrowford is ideally located in the heart of the Pendle Hill Area of Outstanding Beauty, surrounded by river and canal walks, whilst also in easy reach of some of the North’s most popular towns and cities.

With good schools, sports clubs and a budding high street packed with independent stores and coffee shops, each offering something a little different from the other, it really is a village that offers something for everyone. It’s no surprise that it was recently voted one of the Sunday Times ‘Up and Coming Places to Invest’.

Now, eco-leading homebuilder Northstone is offering a new way of living to those looking to move to, or within the village, at its Keld development, which offers a selection of innovative two, three and four-bedroom homes which exude quality and luxury living as standard.

The homebuilder designs each of its developments with sustainability and community at the forefront and Keld is no different, with smart technology that adapts to the user’s daily routine, pedestrian-led streets for safer communities and wifi from the minute you get your keys, all part of its standard offering.

But what really separates these homes is

their eco-friendly design. Internally, you get energy efficient homes with bright rooms, big windows and high ceilings. VELFAC windows are utilised throughout – maximizing thermal efficiency while minimising outside noise –as well as an intelligent heating system, which uses smart technology to reduce environmental impact.

Uniquely, buyers also have the luxury of personalising the design of the downstairs living space up to a certain stage in the build, enabling the creation of a home that truly works for the individual or family that lives there.

Externally, additions such as bat boxes and hedgehog friendly fences enhance the area for existing wildlife, while wider pavements and block paving throughout give residents somewhere to stop and chat. The carefully-considered landscaping and walkways encourage the residents to come together and provide a community feel to the area.

Currently there are two show homes at Keld, giving visitors the opportunity to physically see the features on offer and have a small taste of what life could be like, should they decide to buy a home on the scheme. Prices start from £269,950 for a three-bedroom home. n

Once complete, the Keld community will consist of 239 homes in 10 different designs, with phase one almost sold out. For more information, or to make an appointment at this sought after development, please visit: northstone.co.uk/development/keld

If you’ve never paid a visit to Barrowford, then it is likely that by the end of this article you will want to

SMART TECHNOLOGY

THAT ADAPTS TO THE USER’S DAILY ROUTINE, PEDESTRIANLED STREETS FOR SAFER COMMUNITIES AND WIFI FROM THE MINUTE YOU GET YOUR KEYS, ARE ALL PART OF ITS STANDARD OFFERING

STUDIO LIFE

project managing the build. The site is located in greenbelt and the client requested a single-storey, eco-home which maximises natural light and views of the surrounding woodland. One of their key requirements was to live on-site during the construction within their existing home, therefore the new house was designed to accommodate this and the existing dwelling will be demolished once they have moved in.

concept design for a new build super-home in Pendle, we have designed a wow-factor extension to a client’s home in Wiswell and we have re-designed a luxury property in Harrogate overlooking The Stray.

In planning news, we have obtained approval for a contemporary black timber extension to a traditional stone dwelling in Edgeworth and are waiting for a decision on a new-build, holistic home in the West Lancashire greenbelt.

We are still on the look-out for driven individuals to join our team – so if you are looking for a new opportunity and want to work on bespoke designs within a supportive team environment, then get in touch.

Ready to start your own project journey? Visit our website and tell us what you want to achieve, we will then book your free consultation and take it from there. n

As we progress into the summer months, it’s that time of year when everyone spends more time in the garden and more time outdoors experiencing the outstanding open countryside we are lucky to have across Lancashire. Over the last few weeks we have recommenced our lunchtime walks, won some beautiful projects and we have a number of excited clients moving into their completed homes!

Work is nearing completion at our Woodland House project with our clients moving in soon. Readstone Construction are the main contractor and ZMA have been

Clients have now moved into our contemporary hillside house in Whalley Banks and also at our St Albans’ house transformation – both are looking forward to their first summer in their new homes. When your home has been designed specifically for you and your family and works with the existing site – it quite literally can change your life.

In design news, we have just presented a

For regular behind the scenes updates or on-site progress, visit our Instagram: @zaramoonarchitects

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

Zara Moon Architects

Behind the scenes at ZMA, the design team are seeing delighted clients moving into their dream homes

Bursting with colour