Live Ribble Valley Issue 146 January/February 2024 by Live_Magazines

LANCASHIRE’S PREMIER GUIDE TO LUXURY LIVING I S S U E 146

A GOOD YEAR

HERE’S TO HEALTH & HAPPINESS

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

NUTRITIONIST EMMA GARDNER

SPORTS SENSATION

PADEL TENNIS

MURDER MYSTERY

AUTHOR OSCAR DE MURIEL

LUTRON WIRE-FREE SHADING SYSTEMS Like a dimmer for the sun. Whisper-quiet privacy, UV protection, and a choice between hundreds of premium textiles.

Unique innovative technology ensures 3-5 year battery life, for hassle-free maintenance. Adjust shades from the comfort of your home with a handheld or wall-mounted control, or from anywhere in the world with the Lutron App. Eliminate glare, increase privacy, or create the perfect atmosphere with just one touch.

RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SOLUTIONS THAT PUT YOU IN CONTROL.

Bernard Dickinson, 13 Beech Drive, Fulwood, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 3NB 01772 862 266 bernarddickinson.co.uk andrew@bernarddickinson.co.uk

CONTENTS 12

F E AT U R E S 12 FOOD FOR THOUGHT Nutritionist for Irish rugby, Emma Gardner explains how our daily diet can improve and enhance performance. 96 SPIRITUAL POWERHOUSE Originally from Finland, Rev Anna Walker has recently been appointed as the new director of Whalley Abbey. 110 U LTIMATE WEDDING GUIDE We take a look at the best venues, respected suppliers and why the Ribble Valley has become a national hotspot to tie the knot. 152

SPORTS SENSATION Catherine Robinson talks to tennis coach Mark Schofield who is bringing the fastest growing sport in the world, to the Ribble Valley.

166

T HE MAKING OF A MYSTERY Author Oscar de Muriel has had numerous murder mystery books published internationally. We find out about his latest book – an intriguing spy thriller based on a Mexican artist.

REGULARS 8 EDITOR’S LETTER 15 HOMES INSIDE OUT 68 FASHION 78 HEALTH & BEAUTY 92 LIFESTYLE 132 EDUCATION 139 MOTORS 146 BUSINESS 152 SPORT 154 FOOD & DRINK

168 ARTS & CULTURE 173 PROPERTY

152

LIVE MAGAZINES Chairman: Simon Smith Managing Director: Tedd Walmsley Company Secretary: Elizabeth Walmsley Editor: Jan Woolley Graphic Designers: Nick Dittrich and Rob Walmsley Operations Manager: Kate Hyde Production Manager: James Britton Sales Account Manager: Jane Hughes 07875 696 928 Photography: Robin Lyndon, Roger Moore, Kirsten Platt and Michael Porter Editorial contributors: Paul Agnew, Gail Bailey, Kate Bowyer, Dan Hyams, Kate Hyde, Meena McDonald, Lauren Molyneux, Catherine Robinson, Lynn Scholes, Andrew Stachulski, Jenni Walmsley, Robert Walmsley, Liz Walmsley and Tedd Walmsley

RIBBLE VALLEY OFFICE Office 9 The Old Bakery, Green Street, Lytham FY8 5LG T: 01772 319 465 LIVE RIBBLE VALLEY magazine is hand delivered to selected households and businesses in Balderstone, Barrow, Barrowford, Bashall Eaves, Bolton by Bowland, Brockhall Village, Broughton, Chaigley, Chatburn, Chipping, Clitheroe, Copster Green, Dinckley, Downham, Dutton, Fence, Gisburn, Goosnargh, Grimsargh, Grindleton, Higham, Holden, Horton in Craven, Hothersall, Hurst Green, Knowle Green, Langho and Billington, Longridge, Mellor, Osbaldeston, Pendleton, Pleasington, Read, Ribchester, Rimington, Rivington, Sabden, Salesbury, Samlesbury, Sawley, Simonstone, Twiston, Waddington, West Bradford, Whalley, Whittingham, Wilpshire, Wiswell, Worston. Live Magazines Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Live Magazines Ltd. takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved. Subscription: An annual subscription is available at £25, to cover postage and packaging. For details of subscriptions please email subscriptions@live-magazines.co.uk. For advertising please contact us on 01772 319 465

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Magazines Editor The new year often comes with new beginnings, which can be both exciting and daunting at the same time. We make ambitious pledges and resolve to do things that we know we probably won’t achieve. So, the message in this issue of Live Ribble Valley is, if you’re making new year’s resolutions, make them achievable. Start off with small steps and before you know it, you may be aiming for a mile or even a marathon! Fitness, health and nutrition feature across this issue and we meet the experts who can offer their advice. We talk to Emma Gardner, who has worked with Olympic and professional athletes all over the globe and who is now head nutritionist for the Irish rugby squad. Emma gives a really good insight into how diet and nutrition can have a huge impact on performance and wellbeing. It’s Emma’s job to fine-tune players’ nutrition to suit each individual for maximum performance. Staying on the fitness theme, we’re about to see the world’s fastest growing sport arrive in the Ribble Valley. Padel tennis is a quick-paced game that is hugely popular in the US and it has begun to grow in popularity in London and Manchester. Keeping apace with this explosive sport, tennis coach Mark Schofield is launching padel tennis along with pickle ball in Clitheroe. Mark is giving free training sessions in January – a great way to start the new year with a new sport! We meet photographer Simon Sharp, who is currently running a series of camera-work classes to promote creative wellbeing. Simon works only with a traditional camera and film and he explains how this helps us to slow down and see the world in a different way and how imperfection can make things unique and beautiful. The focus on wellbeing runs throughout this issue, which we hope you enjoy. And, as we head towards 2024, the team here at Live Ribble Valley wish all our readers a very happy, healthy and prosperous new year! Jan Woolley Editor

LANCASHIRE’S PREMIER GUIDE TO LUXURY LIVING I S S U E 146

YOUR PREMIER GUIDE

TO LUXURY LIVING • ISSUE 117

LANCASHIRE’S PREMIER GUIDE TO LUXURY LIVING I S S U E 145

TIME TO CELEBRATE

LUXURY CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

A GOOD YEAR

NEW YORK FILM PREMIERE

HERE’S TO HEALTH & HAPPINESS

YOUNG SCREENWRITER’S SUCCESS

INSPIRED BY NATURE

TWINNING IS WINNING

SHOWBIZ PHOTOGRAPHY BROTHERS

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

CERAMICIST’S WILDLIFE WORK

CHRISTMAS COUTURE

NUTRITIONIST EMMA GARDNER

PARTY TIME FOR THE FBI

FESTIVE FESTIVITIES

SPORTS SENSATION

BAND TAKES CENTRE STAGE AT US EMBASSY

GARDEN CENTRE GLAM WHAT’S ON GUIDES

RADIO GAGA

GILLY’S BROADCASTING CAREER

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PADEL TENNIS

MURDER MYSTERY

AUTHOR OSCAR DE MURIEL

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mma Gardner has worked with leading athletes all over the world. As an expert in sports nutrition, she has helped Olympic and professional athletes keep on top of their game with her advice on what to eat and when. Recently appointed as Head of Nutrition with Ireland rugby (IRFU), she started her career in sports nutrition after leaving university when she began working for Lucozade Sport, educating sponsored teams and athletes on nutrition. She went on to join the English Institute of Sport (EIS) in 2012 as an intern where she supported a number of GB Olympic teams as well as professional rugby players: “It was great to have a job working across both Olympic and professional sport and I was fortunate to experience success. During my time with EIS, I attended two Olympic Games as part of Team GB – Rio in 2016 and Tokyo in 2020,” says Emma, who also worked with Northampton Saints Rugby Club before moving on to start a role with England cricket: “I worked with the men’s team from 2017 to 2022, experiencing their World Cup win.”

WHEN IT COMES TO NUTRITION WE’RE VERY FORTUNATE THAT THE PLAYERS SET HIGH STANDARDS FOR THEMSELVES

FOOD FOR THOUGHT… As Head of Nutrition for Ireland rugby, Emma Gardner explains how healthy eating can improve overall wellbeing and performance. Photography: Irish Rugby/IRFU

Coming from a sporting background, Emma played netball and football at school and went on to play cricket for Lancashire. Having attended St Mary’s College, Blackburn, her love of sports continued at university where she studied Sport and Exercise Science at Birmingham and went on to study in Manchester and London where she studied Sports Nutrition. Her latest role with Ireland rugby is she says, very different: “I’ve worked in team sports my entire career, but rugby is totally different. Firstly, there is the volume of players you look after – most tours involve 30 or 40 players and on a match days you’re providing nutritional support for 23 to 30 players so logistically it’s a big effort! “Then there’s the sheer volume of what they need to eat. The senior male players eat vast amount to cater for their nutritonal needs – six times a day – which is a challenge in itself.” Having worked in sports nutrition for more than a decade, Emma has seen how the role has changed: “When I first started most sports didn’t have a nutritionist and if they

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did it would be very much a part time tole. Now most professional sports have at least one full time nutritionist. “As a discipline, the understanding around what nutrition can add to sport and performance has really increased – nutrition is aligned to other disciplines such as physiotherapy and psychology – it’s not just about food and fuelling athletes. The value placed on nutrition and the practitioners has really grown, which is great.” Emma’s role with the Irish rugby team includes working closely with the players and liaising with the team chefs: “First and foremost they are a lovely bunch of players and staff to work with,” she says. “Everyone buys into nutrition as they understand the importance of it for their performance. Even though they are all involved in the same sport, they each have their own needs and requirements so their nutrition will be individualised taking into account their day to day fuelling and recovery strategies, training programmes and daily supplements. “It’s often assumed that professional sports players use a lot of supplements, but we don’t. We have a food first approach

and encourage a balanced diet with lots of colours (fruit and vegetables) to provide the nutrients they need. “During travel or tournaments, we may include a multivitamin and probiotics and in winter maybe vitamin D, but nothing really beyond that unless a player specifically requires it.” On match days, and pre-match days, it’s Emma’s job to ensure each player eats regularly: “These are fuelling days so typically the day before a match, a player will eat breakfast, a mid-morning snack, lunch, a mid-afternoon meal, evening meal and a pre-bed snack. The focus around games will be predominantly carbohydrates with some protein. Post-match the emphasis is on protein for muscle repair and regeneration and carbs to replenish their energy stores.” Emma works closely with the team’s performance chefs to ‘periodise’ the players’ menus: “This means we adapt the menu to the players’ training and match day requirements. On training days we increase the carbohydrate content, on other days we may increase good quality protein and plenty of colours to support recovery. Optimising the relationship between

catering and nutrition is key in my role,” says Emma. “I also work closely with the coaches to ensure we deliver an aligned approach to performance.” Preparation for match days begins 48 hours before when the players arrive at the team hotel. The day before a game is a ‘captain’s run’ where the team do a training session together: “Other than that it’s a lot of eating and relaxing. “On match days I go five hours ahead of the team to prepare all drinks and nutrition strategies. In the World Cup the prep took even longer as we had high temperatures and additional water breaks.” With big tournaments, like the forthcoming Six Nations, it is anticipated that the team will arrive at camp two or three weeks before it begins: “With the World Cup we arrived in camp in June and the tournament didn’t start until September. Generally however, with tournaments like the Six Nations we will arrive, two or three weeks before as players have provincial team commitments and are training and playing there so they are always ticking over.” Emma’s ‘food is mood’ ethos has, she says, been embraced by the Irish team: “They are

localfocus

easy to cater for. They just love food and lots of it! They like a steak and if they had the choice, some would have it every day. They also love a roast dinner so we have one every week while in camp, to keep everyone happy! “When it comes to nutrition we’re very

ON MATCH DAYS I GO FIVE HOURS AHEAD OF THE TEAM TO PREPARE ALL DRINKS AND NUTRITION STRATEGIES. IN THE WORLD CUP THE PREP TOOK EVEN LONGER

fortunate that the players set high standards for themselves. They want to be professional and they know when they need to perform. “However, with that they know the times when they can relax and, of course, after wins and long tournaments, we always celebrate as a group.” n

EMMA’S TOP TIPS:

Favoured superfood: I am a big fan of blueberries, in fact any berries! They are rich in antioxidants, full of vitamins and minerals and they taste great too! Favourite meal: Spaghetti Bolognese, which is also a popular dish before a match for the playing group too. Day to day diet: I pay attention to my diet but not because of my job, it’s my personal choice. My general rules are to cook from scratch, to minimise any processed food, eat protein with all meals, carbs around my exercise routine and eat plenty of fruit and veg – colours!

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Making Twenty-Two Year Old Dreams Come True When a family from Blackburn renovated their new home, they wanted the very best and painstakingly researched various suppliers. Back in 1991 they admired Kitchen Design Centre’s kitchens and showroom and vowed to have one of their kitchens one day. Fast forward twenty-two years and their wish has come true – with stunning results. They approached other kitchen suppliers for comparison but Blackburn Showroom Manager Will Hustler won hands down with his innovative designs, a competitive price and an unrivalled level of service. Working with renowned builders John Moore and Sons, Kitchen Design Centre created not only an incredible kitchen but two other rooms: a bespoke pantry and utility room. The family are delighted with the finished rooms and with Will and the Kitchen Design Centre team. They were bowled over with Will’s patience and help. Such a large project inevitably meant there were hold-ups and changes and the family found Will to be incredible, constantly adapting and reassuring them and ensuring the finished outcome was as they wanted. They found the fitters to be fantastic too; working to a meticulously high standard.

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PERFECT SHADES… Automated shade company Lutron recently opened a new, international office in central London. Andrew Dickinson of Lutron-partner Bernard Dickinson, was among the honoured guests to be invited

utron, the global leader in lighting control and automated shades, has opened a new office for its UK, continental Europe and Africa headquarters. The company has chosen a 7,770 square foot premises at 51 Lime Street in the heart of the city of London. After recently being awarded Platinum Dealer Status, Karen and I were invited along with a handful of Lutron businesses, to attend a cocktail party at the new office to meet Ed Blair the President of Lutron. The space had to match the company’s technology by providing a comfortable and bright aesthetic. Lutron’s new office includes

enhanced amenities, including greenery and art installations, private phone booths, a relaxation area and the perfect lighting with Lutron’s lighting control and blind automation solutions.

FOR 30 YEARS WE, AT BERNARD DICKINSON, HAVE PARTNERED IN THE SALES AND INSTALLATION OF LUTRON On the decision to move, Ed Blair said: “Lutron’s new London office represents a significant investment in the region and

reflects the growing importance of the UK market for Lutron internationally. Following on from the UK, we’re also investing in international expands with new facilities to be open before the end of this year in India and the Middle East.” Javier Segovia, Senior Sales Director, UK, Continental Europe and Africa at Lutron, added: “This office represents the solutions and design we offer to our customers. It’s a space with the perfect ambience for collaboration. “The lighting control works in combination with our automated blinds, to optimise energy savings while providing a comfortable and productive environment for everyone.” For 30 years we, at Bernard Dickinson, have partnered in the sales and installation of Lutron. It started with a novel looking switch panel that dimmed any lights and lamps that we connected to it. It had a few

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buttons and a catchy looking display. It sold well – most are still in daily use to this day. Without realising what we had started, my business gradually began to steer a different course on another journey. Controlling light helped to control how we felt in a living space, it made nice things look nicer. We look at light in layers, not just hanging from the ceiling. It highlights features within a living space, making the space cosy, functional or dramatic. This worked perfectly well in the evening or at night when darkness fell. It was always more of a challenge to do this in daylight hours. That is, unless you start to look at window treatments.

LIKE A DIMMER FOR THE SUN – WHISPER-QUIET PRIVACY, UV PROTECTION AND A CHOICE BETWEEN HUNDREDS OF PREMIUM TEXTILES Lutron’s founder, Joel Spira asked a question, ‘If we were to become the number one lighting control company in the world, how could we do that if we could not control the number one light source in the world, the sun?’ This started another journey – the automation of window dressings. Simply blinds, or shades, as Lutron call them. It was a privilege to meet Ed and Javier at the opening. Ed told me that he started his career as an engineer in the development of the shades we use today. He was keen to

question me about our commitment and success in becoming one of the country’s top Lutron providers. I detailed our demonstration facilities at Beech Drive which showcases several shading solutions, backed up with imagery of installations within customers’ homes, I explained our prowess in taking the project from early day desires to the finished article and all fulfilled by a highly qualified, professional installation team, in-house. We discussed how every other manufacturer of automated blinds are blind companies who try to add technology to an existing product, whereas Lutron are a technology company who pursued perfection in automated shades. Such is their confidence,

they provide the longest warranty in the industry, for fabric and drives. I supported the statement that there is an expectation that the blinds should go up and down together at the same time during operation, Lutron are the only manufacturer who can guarantee perfect alignment in this way for the life of the shade. Like a dimmer for the sun – whisper-quiet privacy, UV protection and a choice between hundreds of premium textiles. Also, most of our retro-fit blind systems are wire free, using a unique innovative technology that ensures a three to five-year battery life, for hassle-free maintenance. We can adjust the shades from the comfort of our homes with a handheld or wall-mounted control, or from anywhere in the world with the Lutron app, to eliminate glare, increase privacy or create the perfect atmosphere, simply. Connect to the hub and it will track the sunrise and sunset at our home coordinates without us ever having to interfere with schedule and timer programmes. We here at Bernard Dickinson share this confidence and are proud to champion the largest manufacturer of finished automated shades in the world. n

Bernard Dickinson 13 Beech Drive Fulwood, Preston PR2 3NB 01772 862266 bernarddickinson.co.uk

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BLUE WHALE LAMPSHADE £65 mountainandmolehill.com ELEPHANT AND PAGODA BLUE CUSHION £72 fabfunky.com

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

MID-CENTURY MODERN

hen bringing Mid-Century Modern style into your home, the trick is not to overdo it. Introduce a couple of authentic or reproduction pieces to sit alongside your contemporary furniture. Complement these by using the colours and shapes of the era in your decor scheme. Sounds simple yet creating an updated and stylish version of the sleek and pared back look of the 1960’s is deceptively difficult to achieve. A couple from Yorkshire had a clear vision of how to transform their 1961 home, but struggled to find the right designers who could fulfil their precise image, that was until they teamed up with The Secret Drawer. Their entire ground floor space was transformed following classic midcentury interior rules including: The use of clean, architectural lines by removing most of the interior walls and rebuilding the space and adding double patio doors; Creating the illusion of space with a worktop to ceiling mirrored splashback; Making bespoke kitchen furniture in a

dark walnut: Providing bold highlights such as the handcrafted, moveable butcher’s block painted in Air Force Blue 260 (Little Greene) to contrast with the neutral tones of Fuji 201 (Paint & Paper Library) used on the bead board extractor cover and shelving above the Tiree White Silestone worktop. The couple’s principle of purist design extended to the interior kitchen fitments, designed to hold their minimalist kitchen settings of 4 sets of crockery and cutlery. Their choice of unfussy, utilitarian-style furniture in the living and dining areas of the open-plan space oozes warmth and character, successfully Est.1998 completing their modern take on mid-century. The symmetrical layout creates balance, and a feeling of calm yet is stylish and cozy. The rest of the ground floor make-over included the creation of a bedroom, dressing room and ensuite using a winning combination of form and function by taking a previously unused space and turning it into an aesthetically pleasing and practical area with floor to

ceiling built in, handmade wardrobes. The white staircase with its walnut banister, echoes the style of the openplan living space whilst seamlessly connecting the bedroom, dressing area and bathroom. The mid-century theme is reinterpreted for today’s modern interiors and lifestyle with the elegantly stylish ensuite including bespoke, hard wood vanity cabinet and stark white bathroom suite. This home successfully achieves one of the key principles that define the midcentury modern design- the idea that ‘form follows function’. That’s to say that furniture, objects, and buildings influenced by the modernism movement are designed to reflect their intended purpose. The Secret Drawer helped to bring to life the client’s vision by designing and handcrafting bespoke furniture with a timeless look that matched the client’s minimalist aesthetic.

GET THE LOOK

Mid-century modern style champions the principle of purity in design.

Combining the clean lines and sophisticated style of the 1950s and 1960s with a fresh and contemporary twist, the look is perfect for modern homes.

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Clean architectural lines creating uncluttered sleek lines and an understated appearance.

Even in the bedroom, clean lines and muted colours prevail and adding texture with a mohair rug and bringing nature inside with plenty of leafy houseplants.

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WARMTH, QUALITY & STYLE

Founded in 1991 Burning Desires has grown steadily to become one of the largest retailers and trade suppliers of luxury and bespoke designed fireplaces in the North West, writes Gail Bailey. Photography: Roger Moore

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ecently renovated, Burning Desires of Preston have an extensive showroom which now has more variety and a wide range of live displays over their two floors than ever before: “We’ve completely updated and re-designed our showroom,” explains owner Paddy Umpleby. “We showcase an extensive range of gas, electric and wood burner fires and fireplaces, along with providing a unique and personal service to all our customers.” A fireplace is an essential gathering place at the heart of the home – creating both heat and ambience in the room. Living spaces are often designed around the fireplace and this essential focal point really creates the style and mood – and Burning Desires have an array to choose from.

WE ARE ABLE TO UNDERTAKE A PROJECT FROM START TO FINISH FOR OUR CUSTOMERS AND INVOLVE MULTIPLE TRADES – WE CAN PROJECT MANAGE AN INSTALLATION AND MAKE THE WHOLE PROCESS STRESS FREE The experienced installation teams at Burning Desires have many years of collective experience and this enables them to undertake all manner of projects large and small both for personal customers and commercial projects too. They have a strong relationship with leading architects, developers and interior designers who they work closely with to achieve the perfect end result for their clients. As Paddy explains: “We are able to undertake

a project from start to finish for our customers and involve multiple trades – we can project manage an installation and make the whole process stress free and smooth running-for our clients.” Working collaboratively with other local business is important to the team and this includes the recent showroom upgrade. Local company Gainsborough Flooring were pivotal in the new look along with another local business H & P Finishes who completed the amazing Venetian plastering in the shop. James Kok Lighting and local electricians and joiners all worked together to create the new space: “It’s good to work with other local businesses and use our showroom to showcase their work too,” says Paddy.

time choosing their perfect fire and surround and be able to chat to us and feel comfortable and confident in the service we provide.”

WE SHOWCASE AN EXTENSIVE RANGE OF GAS, ELECTRIC AND WOOD BURNER FIRES AND FIREPLACES Along with the new showroom, Burning Desires has updated its website and included new images of the designs they can offer in their extensive range of fires and fireplaces, including multi-fuel burners, wood burning stoves, traditional fireplaces and ‘hole in the wall’ fires. n Take a visit to the showroom to plan your new look fire and surround.

“When people visit us they get the chance to see how we can create a whole new look in their homes working together with other local companies.” The new customer seating area ensures a visit to Burning Desires new showroom is relaxed and not rushed and the wonderful upholstery services of Jayne Crowther based at South Planks, Barton, guarantees this: “Jayne has been superb in the work she has done – the moment you walk in the showroom you feel at home. We don’t want our clients to rush – we want them to be able to sit, take their

Burning Desires Limited 137-141 Garstang Road Fulwood, Preston PR2 3EB 01772 716375 burningdesires.co.uk OPENING HOURS Monday 9am – 5pm Tuesday 9am – 5pm Wednesday by appointment Thursday 9am – 5pm Friday 9am – 5pm Saturday 9am – 4pm burningdesireslimitedpreston burningdesiresltd

homesinsideout “Whereas deep, bold greens can really make a statement – there are no rules when it comes to the palette. The introduction of over-sized plants or even a living wall will also bring the connection of nature and wellness to the fore.”

TRENDS TO WATCH… Bathrooms are about to get bolder, more playful and even more luxurious – according to two leading design experts who share their predictions for 2024

“T

he demands we are placing on how we want our bathrooms to make us feel are growing,” says Sophie Schofield, head of design at Ribble Valley Bathrooms. “As such, they are becoming one of the most design-led rooms in our homes. “As we head into 2024 we are going to see people becoming even more creative with the use of this space – pushing design boundaries and using the bathroom to create a wow factor in the home.” Trends forecaster Louise Dalrymple, who has worked with Ribble Valley Bathrooms, says: “There are a number of factors which are shaping design for 2024 and beyond – our craving for comfort coupled with an ongoing appreciation of the natural world, is pulling through on so many levels.”

on our growing leaning towards earth tones that were a defining factor of the 1970s. This isn’t about re-creating a retro look and feel – it’s using this soothing colour palette in a modern way to create something design forward,” explains Louise. Sophie adds: “Earth tones are coming in strong for 2024 and in bathrooms the result can be really spectacular. Think rust, marigold, burnt sienna terracotta and turmeric. These colours are warm and inviting, creating a soothing and relaxing atmosphere offering an element of balance.”

CALMING SANCTUARY

EARTH MOVEMENT

“The earth movement is a contemporary twist

“There are some enduring trends that have become a mainstay in interiors which really reflect the zeitgeist of our times. Wellness and self-care is one such trend. This is about more than a declutter and a soft neutral palette – we want to be physically embraced and comforted by our surroundings,” says Sophie.

NATURAL VERSATILITY

“Nature once again is at the forefront of interior design but this trend brings sustainability and longevity to the fore,” explains Louise. “A soft neutral palette with natural materials – wood, stone and marble – creates a thoughtful and timeless aesthetic.” Sophie adds: “Designing for longevity is quickly becoming a driving factor for cost and sustainability conscious consumers. This movement is about creating design-led, yet timeless and luxurious spaces – investing in high quality materials, texture and palettes that never go out of fashion.”

MUTED MODERNITY

“Pink may have peaked thanks to Barbiecore but pastels are here to stay – albeit muted. These shades continue to have commercial appeal and this trend is designed to encourage a sense of calm and comfort. Soft curves, carefully chosen colour palettes combined with ambient lighting, tactile materials and bespoke fittings keep this aesthetic feeling innovative and fresh,” says Louise. Sophie continues: “If 2023 taught us anything it is that our interiors can be playful. And while we may have hit peak pink, looking ahead pastels will very much play a role in our homes – albeit in a more muted fashion.” n

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the same room as Steve Jobs and Jony Ive – icons of our time in terms of design and product development.” Having bought the shop, Jayne soon ran out of space so she set her sights on moving to bigger premises in Clitheroe and recently found a row of three shops on Moor Lane, which is now home to Mytham Atelier, a treasure trove of delightful antiques: “The Ribble Valley is a real hotspot and Clitheroe is the best place to be,” adds Jayne, whose father was a businessman and a collector of antiques. “I remember being taken around antique shops when I was little. My dad lived in a big farmhouse and one of the rooms was locked as it had lots of precious things in there and we weren’t allowed to go in unsupervised. “As I got older, I began to understand how much better antiques were compared to what you can buy today.” When she left university Jayne bought her first house, a small cottage, which she renovated: “I got a lot of comments from people about the style and I began to think more about design.” At the time, Jayne worked for British Home Stores and went on to work at senior level with Ikea: “It was a great company to work for. They were interested in developing people and really valued opinions, which I felt was very empowering and enriching.” Having been asked to move to Sweden, Jayne decided to stay in the UK, where she was approached by a company who asked her to go for an interview in London. “All I knew was that it was an American company. I was quite intrigued, so I decided to go. It turned out to be Apple – they had just come to the UK and when I went down

GIVING A HOME SOUL… Having worked for London-based interiors company Heals and in a top leadership role with Apple, Jayne Hacking is now enjoying being closer to home with her new antiques business

ravelling all over the world with a high-flying career with Apple, Jayne Hacking loved every minute of her time working for the global tech giants. But missing her family back home in the Ribble Valley, she decided to change direction and bought a lovely shop selling beautiful, one-off items: “I just had this epiphany. I gave up this amazing job – I literally had been in

to their Regent Street store, I was blown away by it. They had all these amazing, enthusiastic people,” recalls Jane, who was thrilled when she was offered a job as manager of the company’s new Manchester store: “It was a bit scary but there was just something so compelling about Apple.” Jayne’s journey with Apple continued for many years as she went on to take a leadership development role, responsible for Europe and China, travelling to various countries supporting Apple’s new leaders, helping them understand the ethos of the company. “I could never have worked for another company,” she says. “I would never have found one that matched my values.”

homesinsideout Fast forward to 2024 and Jayne and her family live in a beautiful house in Chipping. She still has the original shop she bought after leaving Apple and her spacious, new antiques shop in Clitheroe is thriving: “When I saw this building, I just knew I had to have it!” Mytham Atelier, which going into 2024 is also set to offer an interior design service, is now filled with an eclectic collection of antiques – from rustic wooden tables, elegant

YOU DON’T HAVE TO SPEND A LOT TO CREATE A BEAUTIFUL HOME – JUST BUY WHAT YOU LOVE TO GIVE IT SOME SOUL Georgian desks, ceramics and paintings to hand-made, present-day luxuries including woollen blankets, cashmere and candles. Jayne sources antiques from Europe and around the UK: “I would like to concentrate on sourcing more from this country,” says Jayne, who has made many connections within the trade and is confident in sourcing items on request. “I get a real mix of people calling in to the shop. Whether they live in a little terrace or something grand, I want people to be passionate about what they have in their homes. “I like to give people confidence in their own sense of style. You don’t have to spend a lot to create a beautiful space – just buy what you love to give it some soul.” n

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homesinsideout recipe took months but Chalk Paint™ in Paprika Red will transform your furniture and walls in minutes,” explains Annie. Paprika Red is one of a number of new colours recently release by Annie Sloan, including Capability Green and Frida Blue.

I WANTED TO CAPTURE BOTH ITS PASSION AND VERSATILITY, WHICH IS WHY THE DYNAMIC RED PIGMENTS HAVE BEEN ROUNDED OUT AND BLENDED WITH EARTHIER TONES

SPICE IT UP

Paprika Red is a new spicy terracotta coloured Chalk Paint™ by Annie Sloan. Use it to infuse your home with a passion that is balanced and comforting, thanks to the earthy pigments in this versatile palette

his winter introduce depth and richness to your home with Annie Sloan’s latest addition to her Chalk Paint™ palette – Paprika Red. Borne from Annie’s desire to infuse living spaces with a fiery yet reassuring warmth, Paprika is a spiced terracotta shade with global roots from Mexico to Hungary via North Africa and every well-stocked kitchen in between! “Paprika Red is that truly remarkable thing –

a shade that excites the senses yet soothes the soul, while infusing any living space with a sense of vitality. Artists have used it for centuries, well aware its eye-catching charisma. “I wanted to capture both its passion and versatility, which is why the dynamic red pigments have been rounded out and blended with earthier tones. Perfecting this colour

ANNIE SLOAN CHALK PAINT WORKSHOPS £65 pp including all materials and light refreshments

On course completion get 10% off all Annie Sloan products purchased on the day. To book call 01200 425443 or email: info@priorypolishes.co.uk

Paprika Red goes well with Piranesi Pink, a timeless, universally complementary pink, suggestive of the colour of setting plaster. It’s named after the seminal Italian printmaker and architect, Giovanni Piranesi, and reflects both his love of classical antiquity and his admiration for masonry – Piranesi was the son of a celebrated master stonemason which greatly influenced his work. Paprika is also harmonious with Annie Sloan’s Riad Terracotta, a burnished orange like the warm terracotta tones used in Marrakesh, Morocco. Use it to conjure the warmth and informality of a souk and channel the chic elegance synonymous with bohemian high society. It’s also suggestive of the rich orange pigments used by Henri Rousseau in Tiger in a Tropical Storm and Raphael’s The Cardinal. Another shade that perfectly pairs with Paprika is Annie Sloan’s Chalk Paint™ Original – a warm, slightly creamy, traditional white – Original is the colour of old painted furniture. n anniesloan.co.uk Local stockist: Priory Polishes 01200 425443 priorypolishes.co.uk

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‘Fragments of memory’ – 40x40cm Box Canvas

‘Pieces of my heart’ – 40x40cm Box Canvas

‘not in my gaze (but in my head)’ – 20x20cm Box Canvas

Creativity knows no bounds… Artist Nick Dittrich creates original artworks using a variety of mediums (acrylic, charcoal, graphite, pastel and chalk) or anything else – object trouvé, bottle tops, purchase receipts and micro shredded banknotes. To purchase, or to commission an artwork call: 01279 861863 / 07909 850462 email: endartistuk @ gmail.com

His latest collection are collages from recycled billboards and dry transfer lettering with original wording. He said about the artworks: “The large scale halftone printing, the torn forms, vivid colours and ripped edges are ideal to create purely abstract expressions, as opposed to the original advertising images.” To view his gallery visit: www.endarts.co.uk @ endartistuk

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homesinsideout As with root balls, bare roots are lifted from the ground during the winter months. They are generally younger plants, which are grown for a few years and then lifted from the ground with the roots remaining exposed. Once planted in a new area, bare root plants will take time to grow and develop.

Whilst they do not have the same immediate impact as the root ball alternative, come spring, there will be an abundance of thriving greenery. Bare roots come with stems of

THE ROOT TO SUCCESS It’s bare root and root ball season at Bannister Hall Nurseries, which means big savings on trees and hedging

f you are looking for high quality hedging plants and trees for your next landscaping project and shudder at the expensive potgrown prices at the local garden centre, there is a handy local alternative. Bannister Hall Nurseries, based in Higher Walton Preston, specialises in the growing and sourcing of trees and hedging plants in root ball and bare root form. Unlike pot-grown trees and hedging plants, root ball and bare root plants are grown naturally in a field and

then lifted in a dormant phase at certain times of the year. This offers numerous benefits for the consumer and a highly cost-effective solution for planting a hedge or tree line, especially when covering a larger area. The root ball and bare root season runs from October to around March the following year. During the winter months, trees and shrubs enter a dormant period, which makes it an ideal time to lift them from the ground and to move them to a new area. Lifting and transporting trees in the winter season gives the plants time to settle into their new area, after which, they are ready to wake up and sprout again in the spring. Indeed, root ball refers to the bio-degradable hessian sack that encapsulates the ball of earth containing the root system of the plant when it has been lifted from the ground. When transported to its new location the plant and the sack containing its roots are planted as one, directly into the ground. The process is quick and fairly straight forward, and the success rates are usually high. There are multiple benefits to planting hedging and trees in root balls, one of which is that they are already strong, healthy and mature plants with an established root system. This gives the plant a much better chance of survival whilst creating an ‘instant hedge’ at the size and species desired. This takes away the waiting for plants to develop and ‘knit’ into the desired density you require, and you literally have a fully grown hedge within a day of taking delivery.

varying heights and with a healthy root system. They arrive with the root exposed but are ready for planting immediately. With a bit of time and patience you will have a thriving hedge that will transform your garden and offer added privacy.

At Bannister Hall, customers are able to choose their trees and hedging in a wide variety of species and sizes at a greatly reduced cost from pot grown alternatives. Furthermore, qualified horticulturalists are on hand to advise you on the best species of root ball or bare root for your landscaping project. n

Bannister Hall Landscaping Supplies Centre & Nurseries Potter Lane, Higher Walton Preston PR5 4EN 01772 877087 bannisterhall.com OPEN MONDAY TO FRIDAY FREE ON-SITE PARKING

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le s For F @ all o things r b landscaping: a a l n l sales@bannisterhall.co.uk n t tel:+44 h +44 is (0)1772 i t n e 877087 g rh s ||| email: a la l sales@bannisterhall.co.uk l . n co d . s u c k ap 77087 For For For allall things things | email: all landscaping: landscaping: things tel: tel: +44 (0)1772 (0)1772 landscaping: 877087 877087 email: email: sales@bannisterhall.co.uk sales@bannisterhall.co.uk tel:

At Clearly Interiors, we take the hard work out of renovating your home. Our showroom in Burnley showcases over 25 kitchen displays, over 60 bathrooms and 10 bedrooms for you to feast your eyes upon and get inspiration. We can kit you out using reputable brands like Bauformat, Blanco, Quooker, Neff, Siemens, Daval, Crosswater, and Vitra. Creating a state of the art design for any room is something we pride ourselves upon.

If you are looking for a new kitchen, bedroom, bathroom then there is no need to look further. At Clearly Interiors, we measure, design, quote and install. We can manage your project from start to finish. Contact us to see how we can make your dream project come to life with our FREE survey and design service.

W: clearlyinteriors.com E: info@clearlyinteriors.com T: 01282 448800

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Opening 6 days a week! Mon to Fri: 9.00am – 5.00pm Sat: 9.30am - 4.30pm Unit 3, Holme Road, Burnley, Lancashire BB12 0BJ (Junction 11, M65) Keep up to date with events and competitions at

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BEAUTY BY DESIGN These fabulous kitchens were all designed to blend beauty, elegance and practicality, resulting in spectacular living spaces

This innovative kitchen design has clean lines and handleless doors. The neutral tones and wood finish brings calm and luminosity to the space, while the mixture of raw materials including marble, wood and concrete are used to create a connection with nature. The hanging rail system ensures the kitchen has a minimalist, elegant style whilst the floor to ceiling cupboards ensure there is enough storage. Contact Clearly Interiors today for your FREE survey and design. Clearly Interiors Unit 3 3 Holme Road Burnley BB12 0BJ 01282 448800 info@clearlyinteriors.com clearlyinteriors.com

Capitalising on the trend for separate bar and drinks areas in the kitchen, Kitchen Design Centre designed this bespoke bar and drinks area for a customer to complement their existing Kitchen Design Centre kitchen. Kitchen Design Centre 4-6 Gladstone Terrace Gisburn Road Barrowford BB9 8NL 01282 868444 barrowford@kitchendesigncentre.com Kitchen Design Centre Brownhill Roundabout Blackburn BB1 9AZ 01254 246046 blackburn@kitchendesigncentre.com kitchendesigncentre.com

Above: Stylish, sociable, practical and fun, this recent project from The Secret Drawer is a dream space for large families and includes a huge trend for 2023/24 - the inclusion of duplicates and triplicates of fixtures and appliances. The large kitchen includes booth seating for 10 along with a window seat and bar seating for four. Multiple taps and sinks all have specific jobs including Quooker tap with boiling, hot and sparkling water, a pot filler at the AGA and a sink plus a champagne ice-trough sink. The double AGA is supplemented by a Miele single oven and steam oven. The handcrafted gin bar is flanked by ample storage hideaways for drinks, glasses, store cupboard staples and crockery. The Secret Drawer The Old Chapel Sawley Street Skipton BD23 1SX 01756 797800 info@secret-drawer.co.uk secret-drawer.co.uk Opposite page: Stuart Frazer have led the way in kitchen design for more than 48 years. This stunning Stuart Frazer kitchen is in a house located on Lake Windermere. Visit the Stuart Frazer website to see a wide range of recent projects or call in to one of their three award-winning showrooms in Manchester, Preston and the Ribble Valley. Stuart Frazer Friendship Mill Whalley Road Read BB12 7PN 01282 770800 Stuart Frazer 4-6 Stanley Street Preston PR1 4AT 01772 204004 info@stuartfrazer.com stuartfrazer.com

The Hawkshaw Collection is Rossendale Interiors’ newest slim-frame Shaker kitchen that presents an eye-catching update on an old favourite. Offering a crisp, contemporary feel, the skinny Shaker is the perfect way to bring a fresh, stylish look to your home. Featuring a slim frame of just 68mm, this modern interpretation of classic Shaker style exudes sleek sophistication. Choose from a carefully curated palette of 20 colours, featuring doors painted on both sides. Rossendale Interiors 352-358 Newchurch Road Stacksteads Bacup OL13 0LD 01706 252122 rossendaleinteriors.com

The main kitchen in this beautiful farmhouse is painted in Ammonite while the island is in Dovetail blue. Contrasting work surfaces are crafted in Centuris Grey Dolomite from Brazil to give clean lines. The expert team of craftsmen at Dovetail were also asked to design and install a beautiful glass fronted, illuminated wine cellar beneath the staircase adjoining the kitchen. Dovetail Colne Road Cowling West Yorkshire BD22 0NN 01535 637770 info@kitchensatdovetail.co.uk kitchensatdovetail.co.uk

From survey to after sales our AWARD W I NNI NG team are here to ensure your full satisfaction is G UARANTEE D • 60 displays - tiles, flooring and appliances all under one roof • Finance facilities available including interest free and BNPL • Five designers - CAD service ensuring a quick turnaround • Units manufactured in-house by JJO our parent company so no supply issues BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION NOW 352-358 Newchurch Rd Oswaldtwistle Mills Bacup OL13 0LD Accrington BB5 3DE 01706 252122 01254 304068

Kitchen House Market St www.rossendaleinteriors.net rireception@jjoplc.com Ulverston LA12 7AH 01229 581828 @jjorossendaleinteriors @interiorsrossendale @rossendaleinteriors

homesinsideout

SUPER STOVES! Warm up this winter with a super-efficient, eco-friendly log burner that will become a beautiful focal point in your home

right and crisp winter days are always a joy while grey and wet ones, less so. But there’s no getting away from the fact that winter is cold!

As temperatures plummet, we have decisions to make – we can turn up the central heating and if we’re exceptionally lucky, we can light a fire to keep a room toastie and warm where you can sit and relax in front of the flickering flames and gentle radiating heat. Today’s log burners are super-efficient so you don’t have to worry too much about the cost and even as spring approaches and the nights

get lighter, it’s still lovely to have a wood burning stove that lights up your living space.

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If you’re considering investing in a log burning stove, now is definitely the time to make your move and visit Fuelmizas in Ribchester, where they have a series of fantastic new year offers on wood burners. There are so many to choose from so the best route to finding the right stove for you is to consult expert Nick Astley, who will guide you through the various makers and manufacturers.

SEE THE STOVES IN ACTION

Fuelmizas has a fabulous collection of working stoves on display in-situ in their welcoming showroom and owner Nick has a wealth of knowledge, achieved over three decades working in the industry having taken over the company, which was founded 50 years ago. For unrivalled products, trusted advice and great customer service, Fuelmizas is the ‘go to’ showroom where you can see a

SPECIAL NEW YEAR OFFERS!

Call in to Fuelmizas, Ribchester, to view working models and find out about the latest offers!

“We have a large range of stoves in stock and with our expert installation team, we can react quickly and have a wood burner delivered and installed in a short space of time,” says Nick. n Call in to the showroom to meet Nick – you’re sure to be impressed with the selection of stoves and the friendly service.

fuelmizas In the heart of the Ribble Valley since 1975 CELEBRATING 40 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY

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homesinsideout

WATCH OUT FOR WILDLIFE As the new year gets under way and you start to think about the forthcoming growing season and plans for your outside space, factor in some features that help attract wildlife

for other wildlife. Traditional hedgerows contain several different plant varieties like hawthorn, hornbeam and dog rose. January can be a difficult month for wildlife as natural sources of food are in short supply, so it’s important to ensure that bird feeders are regularly topped up and water supplies are

hatever the size of your garden creating a wildlife friendly habitat is simple to do and can attract a host of garden visitors. Small creature friendly features that will attract and sustain wildlife can be incorporated into any outside space – and are relatively easy to maintain.

One simple solution is to create a mini woodland with trees and shrubs or plant a hedgerow. Natural hedgerows are long lasting, wildlife friendly and sustainable alternatives to garden fencing. In addition to providing cover and food for nesting birds, hedges left to flower and fruit with berries will also provide a valuable source of food and shelter

As well as birds, insects need some thought at this time of year. A good pollinator plant for January flowering is Winter Heather (Erica carnea). While heathers are best grown in acidic soils, some can also thrive in neutral soil conditions – welcome news for gardeners wanting both colour and bee-friendly flowers in the depths of winter. This winter flowering shrub likes a sunny spot where it can slowly spread out and its small bell-shaped flowers that hang from evergreen shoots are a favourite of honeybees. n

TOP JOBS IN THE GARDEN:

fresh and not left to freeze. In severe weather, the RSPB advises putting out high-energy, high fat food for birds twice a day – in the morning and early afternoon – to keep up with demand. It’s also the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch from 26th to 28th January, which encourages you to count the birds you see in your garden, balcony or local park.

• Pruning of deciduous trees, shrubs and hedges can be carried out now and throughout the dormant season – it’s also easier to see what you are doing when the branches have no leaves! Think acers, beech, hazel, hydrangeas and roses. • Cleaning pots and greenhouses ready for spring which helps control pests and diseases. Giving your greenhouse a clean now, whether glass or plastic, greatly improves the growing environment for plants by removing the build up of algae, moss and grime to let in more light. • Planning your crop rotation for the coming growing season if you are growing your own fruit and veg. The principle of crop rotation is to grow specific groups of vegetables on a different part of the vegetable plot each year. This helps to reduce a build-up of crop-specific pest and disease problems and it organises groups of crops according to their cultivation needs.

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homesinsideout

SHUTTERS TO SHOUT ABOUT Confused by curtains, bamboozled by blinds, stumped by shutters? When the choice seems overwhelming, call North Blinds’ Lucas Kadzior and Chris Zegota, writes Kate Bowyer

heating costs and keeping rooms cool during increasingly hot summers, as well as affording greater privacy than sheer curtains or blinds. From Victorian terraces to modern homes, customers are finding the timeless clean lines of shutters a pleasure to look at as well as to use. Crafted to last for years without wear or fading, they can even add value and sale appeal to a property.

ringing professional expertise, understanding and friendliness to happy customers across the North West, North Blind’s bespoke services and quality products enjoy the rare ‘outstanding’ Trustpilot rating. We asked the team to shine a light on shutters – the hottest trend in highperformance, sophisticated window style.

NORTH BLINDS’ SHUTTERS ARE BESPOKE, MEASURED, MADE AND FITTED FOR ALL SHAPES AND SIZES OF WINDOW, INCLUDING BAYS, DOOR WINDOWS AND PATIO DOORS

Shutters – are we talking about the slats I’ve started seeing appear in windows across my neighbourhood?

That’s right. People are increasingly discovering the aesthetic appeal, high functionality, versatility, low maintenance and even energy efficiency of modern shutters.

Is fitting restricted to a certain type of window?

No. As with all our curtains and blinds, North Blinds’ shutters are bespoke, measured, made and fitted for all shapes and sizes of window,

including bays, door windows and patio doors. Café style shutters across the lower half of a window, for example, create a great balance of light and privacy.

They sound low maintenance?

Absolutely! A quick dust or wipe down is easy because they’re fixed, it’s all that’s needed to keep them looking fresh. Cordless shutter designs are secure for children or pets, and easier to operate for anyone with dexterity issues. PVC shutters are incredibly clean and hygienic for bathrooms.

Do I have to go the whole hog?

Definitely not, shutters complement our wide range of curtains and blinds – it’s about what works for each individual customer. Many are choosing to mix and match – shutters for statement front windows or maximising their practical benefits at large conservatory windows and with a huge variety of styles and colour, you can really have fun.

Is it correct that North Blinds don’t have a showroom?

Our showrooms are on screen and on wheels! Investing in a great website and impressive mobile showroom means our no-obligation consultations offer better, personalised in-situ service, while we get to enjoy some great cups of tea across the region! n

So how do they work?

An internal frame fixed to the window allows you to angle and adjust horizontal slats, or louvres, making it an extremely efficient way to control light and air circulation. For example, open for maximum light or airflow, angled for more shade and privacy, fully closed at night.

Any benefits over traditional curtains or blinds?

Their solid, draught-proofed design offers home insulation benefits, mitigating winter

North Blinds Ltd 01200 228023 info@northblinds.co.uk northblinds.co.uk NorthblindsSkipton northblinds

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homesinsideout

FEBRUARY JOBS

• Prepare vegetable seed beds and sow some vegetables under cover. Knowing which vegetables to sow where, when and how means you can maintain constant supplies throughout the season. • Chit potato tubers. It’s important with earlies, and a good idea with maincrops, to ‘chit’ the seed potatoes before planting. This means allowing them to start sprouting shoots. • Protect blossom on apricots, nectarines and peaches. Most top fruit and soft fruit are very hardy but once they start growing in spring, flowers and buds are especially vulnerable to frost and may need protection to crop well.

PREPARING FOR SPRING February can be one of the coldest months of the year, even though it is full of the promise of spring with bulb shoots pushing through and song birds being heard

here is still plenty to do in the garden now in preparations for the months ahead – winter maintenance continues and there is gentle pruning and cutting back of shrubs and hedges to do. Make sure when cutting back that you don’t disturb wildlife that will still be hibernating. If you want to know what to do with your prunings then one simple solution is to create a ‘twiggery’ – a twiggy habitat tucked away in a quiet spot at the end of the garden or allotment or under a hedge. Cut prunings into lengths of one to two metres and make

MAKE SURE WHEN CUTTING BACK THAT YOU DON’T DISTURB WILDLIFE a low pile in a shady place. Small mammals will use this and hedgehogs may even nest there. Birds that don’t mind nesting close to the ground such as blackbirds and dunnocks may also use it as a nest site. You can also think about giving a bird a home during National Nest Box Week, which runs for a week from 14th February, by simply

putting up a bird nest box in your garden. As our gardens and parklands become tidier, natural nest sites are rapidly disappearing. Caring for our feathered friends by feeding, providing water and putting up nest boxes, to give them a safe space to raise chicks, has never been more important. You can find out where to put up a nest box and which kind to put up at nestboxweek.com. Attracting insects into your garden for birds and to pollinate plants is also important. A good pollinator plant for February flowering is Pussy Willow (Salix caprea). This native deciduous tree prefers deep soils that don’t dry out and has broader leaves than most willows. In late winter, it produces furry catkins that not only contain nectar but also accessible pollen that turns the male catkins from silvery-grey to bright yellow and attracts big queen bumblebees and several species of solitary bees. n

WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY

This month there are signs of the approaching spring, with bulbs appearing and wildlife waking up as light levels and temperatures increase. There’s plenty to do indoors this month to prepare for the season ahead. Outdoors, as the garden comes to life again, it’s time to prune shrubs and climbers, such as Wisteria as well as evergreen hedges. RHS The shortest month of the year, February marks the final month of the winter season and heralds the dawning of spring. It can also start to feel noticeably lighter each day which is always a boost after shorter daylight hours. This extra light makes heading for walks to spot wildlife such as beautiful waxwing birds or common spawning frogs a little easier, as nature stirs after its winter hibernation. BBC Countryfile

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Heskin Hall Shopping Village, Wood Lane, Heskin, Chorley, Lancashire PR7 5PA

01257 451121 | sales@hepplestonefineart.com | www.hepplestonefineart.com /hepplestone.art

@hepplestoneart

Visit the Gallery, we are 5 minutes from Junction 27 off the M6. Open 7 days with Ample Free Parking OR Buy On-line with FREE UK Mainland Delivery.

HESKIN HALL SHOPPING VILLAGE, WOOD LANE, HESKIN, CHORLEY, LANCASHIRE PR7 5PA 01257 451121 | SALES@HEPPLESTONEFINEART.COM

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SEE THE LIGHT… Discover some truly beautiful blinds, shutters and curtains at James Albert, where you will find premier products and first-class service. Photography: Roger Moore

enowned for their luxurious, bespoke window treatments, James Albert has been making beautiful blinds, shutters and curtains since 2007. Since then, James and his team have forged a reputation for their stunning, custom-made products, along with their innovative design, as James explains: “Blinds, shutters and curtains are not something that you replace very often. They are a long-term investment for your home, so they have to be perfect.” If you’re thinking about replacing shutters or blinds – the options are huge. Times have moved on and today, technology and bespoke manufacturing play a huge part in making

window treatments super-efficient as well as aesthetically pleasing. Everything at James Albert is done in-house at their impressive, new showroom which really maximises customer experience. “Customers are frequently surprised at how much technology has moved on,” says James, who founded J&A Blinds after leaving university.

which incorporates pockets in the ceiling that are installed at the build stage, so motorised blinds totally disappear when not needed: “These blinds maximise light and if you have feature windows and want to show them off, these are the answer,” explains James, who is one of the very few suppliers of Blind Space products. From bespoke shutters that really make a statement to any sort of blinds and curtains, James Albert will produce it to your exact requirements: “As we are not tied to any brand or agent, we are able to give customers a wider choice.” Shutters are available in an array of colours and produced to the highest quality using the best materials, ensuring longevity – and a stunning addition to your interior. Blinds are also made to order in a wide collection of styles – from Venetian and Roman to silhouette and roller, they can be motorised and operated remotely. If you’re considering a new treatment for your windows, James Albert will be delighted to introduce you to their extensive collection of premium products. n For an appointment to discuss your requirement call the team today.

The company is now the go-to place in the region for window treatments and along with their new headquarters, they have undergone a complete re-brand as James Albert, to reflect their premier products and top-notch reputation. “When customers come to see us they are amazed at how easy it is to ask Alexa to open their blinds or curtains. It’s the sort of product and technology that they haven’t seen before,” adds James. “We are unique in that we work very closely with our customers, making bespoke blinds and shutters and we are totally knowledgeable on complete home automative systems like Control 4.” James Albert also works with Blind Space,

James Albert 278 Fylde Road Preston PR2 2NJ 01772 823311 hello@jamesalbert.co.uk jamesalbert.co.uk

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

EXCITING TIMES A family home has recently had a smart new front door and windows installed by the skilled team at Whalley Home Improvements, which reveals exciting plans for the new year

fter having a new Rockdoor fitted to the front of their large family home, Helen Coburn and her husband didn’t hesitate to call Whalley Home Improvements when they needed to replace all the windows in the property. The couple were delighted with their Rockdoor, so when a total of 22 windows needed replacing, Helen got back in touch with the team at Whalley Home Improvements,

who presented her with a variety of top quality choices in various colours: “The old windows definitely needed updating,” recalls Helen, who works as an accountant. “The house is around 25 years old, it’s built of red brick but certain features like the stone lintels meant we had to choose windows in a style that lent themselves to the rest of the house.”

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WE WERE VERY IMPRESSED WITH THE QUALITY AND IT WAS A GREAT EXPERIENCE OVERALL The original windows at the Brockhall Village property were white, they were worn and some of the fittings were beginning to deteriorate: “Some of the hinges didn’t work very well and didn’t open properly and some were coming loose,” explains Helen. While the old windows were double glazed,

replacing the windows also meant that Helen and her management consultant husband could choose new, eco-friendly windows that would improve insulation: “The choice to replace the windows was two-fold. It was a choice partly based on aesthetics as they were beginning to look a little jaded and we also saw an opportunity to improve insulation –

homesinsideout the new ones are also double glazed but much more efficient in reducing noise from the outside as well as from the inside if the children are playing music.” Co-founder of Whalley Home Improvements, Emma Hodgkinson, initially advised the couple on various styles of windows and they opted for two different styles – a more traditional style at the front of the property and more contemporary at the rear. They chose a beautiful shade of grey to match their new front door and were absolutely delighted with the efficiency with which the windows were fitted. “Even though there were so many windows the disruption was minimal – and there was hardly any clearing up to be done after,” recalls Helen.

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of skilled craftsmen and installers based at their Mitton Road premises. Looking to the future, Emma says: “These are exciting times for Whalley Home Improvements. Last year we moved to bigger premises as we are so busy. As we go into 2024 we are looking forward to another busy year – we have some major, much bigger projects in the pipeline but we are still happy to work on smaller ones.

Speaking on the installation for Helen and her family, Emma says: “This was a lovely project to work on. Helen was really pleased with the Rockdoor we fitted so she asked us to fit all the new windows too, which look great!” Since launching, Whalley Home Improvements have won numerous awards in recognition of their skill, efficiency and unrivalled customer service. They have also forged a reputation for their first-class portfolio of premium products featuring the likes of Rockdoor, Ultraframe, Affordable Window Systems, Timberlook and Flush Sash. Corgi Fenestration registered, Whalley Home Improvements has a team “We’d had a good experience with the door, so we didn’t hesitate to go back to Whalley Home Improvements – we always like to use local firms. “Everything was done so professionally. The team were really good and Emma was great at keeping us updated in every aspect of the installation. We were very impressed with the quality and it was a great experience overall.” Since Emma and co-founder Graham Fielden launched Whalley Home Improvements three years ago, they have worked on projects large and small throughout the Ribble Valley and beyond.

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IT’S ALWAYS A PLEASURE TO SEE CLIENTS WHO ARE DELIGHTED WITH THE END RESULT, NO MATTER HOW SMALL OR LARGE THE PROJECT

“Last year saw us work on a variety of projects for private individuals and businesses. Our reputation goes before us – clients know that we will complete the job efficiently, with minimal disruption and within budget. “It’s always a pleasure to see clients who are delighted with the end result, no matter how small or large the project.” n

Whalley H O M E I M P R O V E M E N T S LT D Whalley Home Improvements Units 16-21 Mitton Road Business Park Mitton Road, Whalley BB7 9YE 01254 824179 www.whalleyhomeimprovements.co.uk FREE PARKING

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SKILLED SOLU T IONS If you need exterior or interior plastering work, Alistair Wearden has the solution, providing skilled workmanship and worldclass materials

killed plasterer Alistair Wearden of AJW Plastering & Rendering Systems is renowned for improving homes and business premises across the Ribble Valley and beyond. Alistair, a qualified, specialist plasterer for 17 years, takes an innovative approach to his craft using some of the finest techniques and first-class materials.

ALISTAIR, A QUALIFIED SPECIALIST PLASTERER FOR 17 YEARS, TAKES AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH TO HIS CRAFT USING SOME OF THE FINEST TECHNIQUES He undertakes all aspects of interior plastering and exterior rendering including dry lining and damp proofing. Using many different materials and techniques, AJW provides a top-class service and are ultimately reliable. Among the services AJW provides are:

• Machine applied coloured render

• Monocouche and thin-coat render, monocouche is a chalky, textured render that is well known for its durability • AJW has a wide range of colour samples for all the major rendering manufacturers including renowned K-Rend, Ecorend, VPI, EWIPRO, PRB, Weber, Fassa Bortolo and Parex. Forward-thinking and always in demand, Alistair always use high quality materials to get the required look and a durable, long-lasting finish. Always keen to find the best solution, Alistair is renowned for his ability to acquire new skills that transform exterior and interiors walls giving them the ‘wow factor’.

AJW have a well-earned reputation of providing a clean reliable and tidy service.

FORWARD-THINKING AND ALWAYS IN DEMAND, AJW ALWAYS USE HIGH QUALITY MATERIALS TO GET THE REQUIRED LOOK AND A DURABLE LONG-LASTING FINISH They are dedicated to working with clients to meet their needs transforming their homes and workplaces. All work undertaken by AJW is overseen personally by Alistair guaranteeing a non-intrusive approach and flexible work times to fit around your lifestyle. n

AJW PLASTERING & RENDERING SYSTEMS

AJW Plastering & Rendering Systems 48 Blackburn Road, Padiham BB12 8JZ 01282 547276 07511 055159 ajwplastering@live.co.uk

TH MBER SALE STARTS 27 DECE

HALF PRICE WINTER SALE

Kirman Woven Rug • Design ZKI004 Was £499 Now only £249.50 Size shown 7’6 x 5’3 (2.30 x 1.60m) 100% Polypropylene. Made in Turkey. Other sizes are also available.

Ella Claire Exclusive Rug • Design ECAC02 Was £699 Now only £349.50 Size shown 8’ x 5’6 (2.44m x 1.70m) 90% Wool, 10% Viscose. Handmade India. Other sizes are also available.

Kirman Woven Rug • Design ZKI005 Was £695 Now only £347.50 Size shown 9’6 x 6’7 (2.90m x 2.00m) 100% Polypropylene. Made in Turkey. Other sizes are also available.

Cozy up your home this winter with FrithRugs, the UK’s largest stockist of rugs, and enjoy the warmth of our Half Price Winter Sale! Discover an extensive collection of styles and sizes, all quality made with expert craftsmanship. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of luxury to your living room or revamp your bedroom with a splash of colour, our Half Price Winter Sale is your golden ticket. Step into any of our showrooms or browse online to find the rug that perfectly complements your style and adds a touch of winter magic to your home. Don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity to wrap your space in luxury at half the cost. Hurry - the perfect rug at the perfect price awaits you in our Half Price Winter Sale!

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19a Vanguard Way, Shrewsbury SN: SY1 3TG FrithRugs is a trading name of G H Frith (Bodelwyddan) Ltd. 23j02

05/12/2023 09:31

THE FIRE SPECIALISTS… Since 1996, Burning Desire Fireplace Centre, Ramsbottom, have prided themselves on ‘doing things properly’

rom initial survey to product sourcing and installation, in fact throughout all their business processes, Burning Desire Fireplace Centre provides a level of customer care based on upholding the highest values and exceeding industry standards. With five members of the Armstrong family all working together under one roof, it helps to have a collective vision and this manifests itself in customer service excellence.

NEWSFLASH #1!

No ban on wood stoves! Despite many misguided articles announcing that real wood burning stoves are being phased out, the Clean Air Strategy has declared that there is no intention to ban wood burning stoves (as published on the HETAS website).

The new regulations have been introduced to promote wood burners that are cleaner and more efficient. This is reiterated by DEFRA’s ‘Burn Better Breathe Better’ campaign: Check it regularly, sweep it annually and feed it the right fuels.

Fine examples of efficient, clean wood burners are Dik Geurts (part of DRU fires and stoves), which are synonymous with robust design. They manufacture extraordinary stoves for people who value beautiful design, craftsmanship and clean performance. They have recently expanded their range considerably to include fires like the Oval Tunnel and the Ivar 5 with store (pictured). Dik Geurts’ wood burning stoves are available for live demonstration in the Burning Desire showrooms. Burning Desire, a HETAS approved stockist, has always sourced the best, cleanest and most efficient stoves the UK and Europe has to offer and fully endorse these new regulations.

homesinsideout

NEWSFLASH #2 Stove Industry Alliance Did you know? In a recent analysis by Gemserve Ltd, households with gas central heating and a wood burning stove that adopt zonal heating (using a wood burning stove while turning down the gas central heating to 18C for a three-hour period during winter evenings, on average five times a week, save on average £132 per year. Your safety is paramount. As well as adhering to all health and safety laws and having accreditation with all recognised quality bodies, as standard, we insist upon providing a FREE high quality carbon monoxide alarm with every installation. Sales Manager, Craig Armstrong, adds: “We recommend not only purchasing your stove from a HETAS-approved stockist, but also ensuring that the installer is also accredited. Above and beyond having a poorly fitted fire, which could be dangerous, not having a certificate from HETAS could invalidate your insurance and make it very difficult should you wish to sell your property. We also insist that our installers utilise the highest quality flue components and chimney materials available from reputable sources – do not cut corners!”

manner of associated parties from across the heating sector with the goals of advancing training, raising awareness and improving end-user safety in this exciting, emerging, renewable arena.

HETAS stands for Heating Equipment Testing and Approval Scheme and is widely recognised as the leading industry certification body for fires, fuels and installation.

Have confidence that there will be knowledgeable staff available to advise you in the showroom.

As an industry lead expert, they work closely with government, appliance and chimney manufacturers, installers, fuel producers, retailers, distributors and all

WE ALSO INSIST THAT OUR INSTALLERS UTILISE THE HIGHEST QUALITY FLUE COMPONENTS AND CHIMNEY MATERIALS

But do not forget that Burning Desire are not just wood burning stove specialists – they also sell wooden, marble and stone fireplace surrounds, internationally renowned gas and electric fires, media walls with a range of microcement or Venetian plaster finishes and the electric range cooker from Everhot.

So why visit a HETAS approved retailer?

Purchase a safe and legal appliance with the appropriate amount of output needed to heat your home. Get recommendations for the right wood burning stove for your home and lifestyle.

So, all in all, you can be assured that a visit to the Burning Desire showrooms will not only provide you with the fire you desire, but also the peace of mind that comes from ‘proper’ customer service. With free parking, free surveys and open seven days a week – what are you waiting for? n

Burning Desire Fireplace Centre Unit 9, Cuba Industrial Estate Bolton Road North Stubbins, near Ramsbottom BL0 0NE 01706 281700 info@burningdesireuk.com burningdesireuk.com Free parking. Free surveys. Open seven days a week

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tel:611622 01772 www.theoriginalbathroomcompany.co.uk tel:611622 01772 tel:611622 01772 611622 www.theoriginalbathroomcompany.co.uk www.theoriginalbathroomcompany.co.uk tel: 01772 www.theoriginalbathroomcompany.co.uk tel: 611622 01772 www.theoriginalbathroomcompany.co.uk

...for 20 years we have been creating everything you need for a luxurious & practical bathroom.

84 Liverpool Road, Longton, Preston PR4 5NBPR4 NextPR4 to Booths 84 Preston Liverpool Liverpool Road, Longton, Preston Preston 5NB PR4 • Supermarket Next 5NB to•Supermarket Booths Next toSupermarket Booths Supermarket verpool Road,84Longton, 5NBLongton, • Road, Next to• Booths Liverpool Road,84PR4 Longton, Preston 5NB • Supermarket Next to Booths AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE EVENING EVENING AND WEEKEND AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE AVAILABLE EVENINGEVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

CELEBRATING A FANTASTIC 20 YEARS IN BUSINESS

DE SIGN • S UPPLY • IN STAL L Be inspired in our 3000 sq ft showroom. Open Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm by appointment only. Evening appointments are also available upon request. Please call 01772 611622 or email showroom@originalbathroomcompany.co.uk www.theoriginalbathroomcompany.co.uk 84 Liverpool Road, Longton, Preston PR4 5NB • Next to Booths Supermarket

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HIS REPUTATION GOES BEFORE HIM! Catherine Robinson meets an expert painter and decorator whose thriving business has grown through word of mouth

xpert decorator Darren Marsden of DM Decorating has been glamourising the homes, offices, pubs, schools and factories of Lancashire for over 20 years. From the humblest terrace to the grandest mansion, Darren has worked in them all: “I’m currently working for King Charles,” he chuckles. “In houses belonging to the Duchy of Lancaster.” And King Charles isn’t the only celebrity whose walls Darren has

adorned: “I’ve worked for quite a few Ribble Valley celebrities, although I can’t disclose names!” he adds. Darren is also trusted by building firms and rental companies as well as by the single-home dwellers whose walls have been graced by his bespoke touch for years.

He promises that his presence will cause minimal disruption and that all he will leave behind is a beautiful environment, richer for his craftsmanship and attention to detail: “The number of repeat customers I get tells its own story,” remarks Darren,

THE NUMBER OF REPEAT CUSTOMERS I GET TELLS ITS OWN STORY Darren, whose company is based in Oswaldtwistle, skilfully undertakes all forms of interior and exterior decorating. He regularly works alongside professional designers and is happy to undertake emulsion, gloss and masonry painting as well as wallpapering: “Wallpaper can make a really big impact on a room.” Darren, whose work is displayed on his Instagram page, prides himself on his old school approach. He understands that a good job relies on thorough preparation. He sands and prepares the surfaces that need it to ensure he gets the flawless result he has become renowned for. Darren also works cleanly and efficiently.

whose work has always arrived through word of mouth: “I have 30 or 40 who come back to me again and again and in all the decades I’ve been doing this work, never once have I had to return to a job! That’s thousands of happy customers.” n DM Decorating 07857 119083 dm_paintingdecorating

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.

AWARD WINNIN G PERSONALISED QUALITY D ESIGN AND IN STALLATION

Call Katie on 01200 444540 to book your exclusive studio or home design appointment Backridge Farm Business Centre, Twitter Lane, Bashall Eaves, Clitheroe BB7 3LQ

www.heartofyourhomekitchens.co.uk

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

homesinsideout

STYLISH & SAFE If you want to make a great first impression of your home, Preston’s Lee Kelly uPVC & Aluminium provide a new range of extremely secure aluminium and steel front doors in striking, unique designs

ulwood-based Lee Kelly uPVC & Aluminium are delighted to become the Approved Trade Partner for Gerda doors, the prestigious Polish manufacturer with a commitment to delivering superior products. What sets the Gerda range apart is its contemporary designs with bags of curb appeal, highly secure locking system and their remarkable durability and resistance to rotting or warping. Their design and construction differ significantly from conventional composite doors. Mark Lee, one of the firm’s directors, said: “We are thrilled to be able to offer our customers such an exceptional door. Their striking, contemporary designs add value to

and durability. The emphasis on security that is standard across all Gerda products is rarely seen in any specification for composite residential doors currently available in the UK. The doors are exceptionally energy-efficient, thanks to a unique thermal division that enhances the natural insulation of aluminium and steel. With a low U-value – the rate of transfer of heat through a structure – there will be little loss of heat. When it comes to selecting the right front door for your home, there is a wide choice of colours and finishes both for the door and the matching hardware, so you can be confident your Gerda door will seamlessly complement your existing windows. Choose a solid colour or a wood finish with four hardware colour options and variety of handles. You can also expect the friendly, customer-focused staff at Lee Kelly to be on hand to help you find the perfect door for your home.

homes that want to make a statement and with a range of hardware and finishes, the Gerda range is the natural upgrade that provides security, warmth, style and peace of mind.”

THE FRIENDLY, CUSTOMER-FOCUSED STAFF AT LEE KELLY WILL BE ON HAND TO GUIDE YOU TO YOUR PERFECT CHOICE The Gerda range comes with a 12-point locking feature as standard which includes an anti-burglary vertical bolt driven by the main lock plus three separate bolt locks. Being constructed of steel and aluminium, these doors are forged with strength, resilience

Pound for pound, Gerda categorically outclasses and outperforms any other door. They surpass competing products like the S200 Spitfire Door, Origin and Hallmark offerings. Mark added: “The Gerda Door range complements our full collection of aluminium windows and patio doors and will look equally stunning with uPVC windows. We take pride in offering exclusive Gerda door installations to Preston and the surrounding areas. We welcome you to call in to view the range at our recently refurbished showroom where we can take care of every detail to install your beautiful new Gerda door.” n

Lee Kelly uPVC & Aluminium 364 Blackpool Road Fulwood, Preston PR2 3AA 01772 788550 mail@leekellyupvc.com leekellyupvc.com

KEEP IT CASUAL Above: Barbour black herring knit dress £99.95 Opposite: Barbour Classic Beaufort in Olive £289 Varey’s Town and Country 2 Market Place Clitheroe BB7 2DB 01200 423267 vareys.co.uk

LANX Women’s Conker Whalley boot £215 LANX Unit 29 Mitton Road Business Park Whalley BB7 9YE lanxshoes.com

michelle b womenswear 2/3 King Edward Terrace, Gisburn Rd, Barrowford, Lancashire BB9 8NJ michelle@michelleb.co.uk www.michelleb.co.uk 01282 605060 /michellebfashion @michellebwomen

LANX THICK SOCK TANGO £15 lanxshoes.com LANX THICK SOCK OXFORD £15 lanxshoes.com NEEM LONDON RECYCLED ITALIAN SKY DOBBY POPOVER SHIRT £99 neemlondon.com

BARBOUR CORD OVERSHIRT RUSSET £89.95 vareys.co.uk

DUBARRY BALLYBROPHY PEACOCK BLUE £299 vareys.co.uk

MIX IT UP

ESME ORANGE AMETHYST ROSE GOLD STUDS £89 amelia-scott.com

Warm shades of orange and coral contrast with cool shades of blue and lilac to reflect this year’s colour trends

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ENAMEL BOW RING, CORAL, BLUSH PINK AND ROSE GOLD £99 amelia-scott.com

& online In-store & online

4. LANX WOMEN’S NAVY WHALLEY HIKER BOOT £215 Unit 29 Mitton Road Business Park Whalley BB7 9YE lanxshoes.com NEEM LONDON CASHMERE NAVY RIBBED BEANIE HAT £85 neemlondon.com

101 Fishergate Preston Lancashire PR1 2AE 101 Fishergate Preston W. novellos.co.uk Lancashire PR1 2AE E. info@novellos.co.uk W. novellos.co.uk T. 01772 555454 E. info@novellos.co.uk T. 01772 555454

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

CONI CASHMERE SCARF ORANGE £75 monsoon.co.uk

WHALLEY WAREHOUSE SHOP Unit 29 - 30 Mitton Rd Business Park Whalley, Lancashire BB7 9YE

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

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fashion their client inspired pieces: “Our bespoke experience puts you at the heart of the jewellery design process,” explains Stefan. “During an initial consultation, we design the item you’ve envisaged and discuss all aspects from the style and shape of metal through to cut, colour and clarity of the gemstones. We then follow-up with a second consultation where a presentation of gemstones allows you to visualise the characteristics discussed. We can also produce a resin model of the one-off piece to allow for tiny adjustments before it is meticulously crafted.”

OUR BESPOKE EXPERIENCE PUTS YOU AT THE HEART OF THE JEWELLERY DESIGN PROCESS

SKILL, ARTISTRY & CRAFTMANSHIP Catherine Robinson meets a family of master jewellers, creating bespoke jewellery in the Ribble Valley

ewellery represents the memories, joys and loves of our lives, and has done throughout history. Where better then, to buy a bespoke personal piece from a three-generation family of goldsmiths, right here in the Ribble Valley?

Huppach Jewellers of Barnoldswick was established in 1978 by Friedrich Huppach. Now, after over 35 years of working in jewellery manufacture in Manchester, Stefan, the founder’s son, has returned to the family fold bringing not only his wealth of experience but his jeweller son Declan, who works beside him. Stefan and Declan pride themselves on using traditional skills alongside state-of-the-art technology. Both are used in the crafting of the unique items on sale in Huppach Jewellers, and never more effectively than when creating

It’s clear that the bespoke jewellery which is mostly created on-site fills the father and son with the greatest satisfaction: “We enjoy working with customers,” says Stefan. “It’s heart-warming to present a unique creation which will be of great sentimental value – but we’re also sad to see the item leave us! Each handmade piece is a representation of three generations of our family’s skill and craftsmanship, so we take the utmost pride in every piece whether it has taken us three hours or three months to create.” n Huppach are official agents for Baume et Mercier and Seiko. They also offer watch servicing and repairs, jewellery alterations, repairs and valuations.

Huppach Jewellers 15 Rainhall Road, Barnoldswick BB18 5AF 01282 815559 info@huppachjewellers.co.uk huppach.co.uk

/scruplesmenswear

@scruplesmens

health&beauty This philosophy is one of the reasons Nate feels his clients on the Nate’s Way programme are finally seeing the results they had aimed and hoped for previously. The support and accountability on offer, alongside a holistic approach to health and fitness, have opened up the opportunity to succeed.

PREVIOUS FAILURE ISN’T SOMETHING TO FEAR, IT’S IMPORTANT IN RESPECT OF WHAT WE CAN LEARN FROM IT – WE CAN COME BACK STRONGER AND MORE DETERMINED TO SUCCEED

LET’S DO THIS! The start of a new year is often a trigger for setting new life goals, which all too often don’t come to fruition, leaving us feeling as though we have failed. But, try doing it Nate’s Way and make it happen

f failing in your new year resolutions sounds familiar, but you’re not sure where to start, gaining understanding and support from an experienced coach and mentor will be fundamental on the journey ahead. Nate Sewell, coach, and founder of Nate’s Way knows only too well the intrinsic link between physical and mental health having served in the British Army. After facing his own challenges, he learned the importance of accountability both to himself and to his colleagues. Using fitness to open doors, he now helps others to take back control – a powerful catalyst for positive

change which can be practised in every part of life, work, family and relationships. Nate explains: “Everyone’s journey is unique, there’s is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution, but a combination of physical activity, positive mindset shifts, accountability and self-reflection builds the foundation for strengthening resilience and can help overcome obstacles such as depression and anxiety.” Understanding the individual circumstances of each of his clients, enables him to create a programme to suit and adapt to their needs. Age, fitness level, experience, nutrition, lifestyle, family commitments and time are all factors which are taken into consideration – nothing is prohibitive when it comes to the Nate’s Way process. Many people Nate works with have seen failure through previous diets, gym memberships and personal training programmes but as Nate explains: “Previous failure isn’t something to fear, it’s important in respect of what we can learn from it – we can come back stronger and more determined to succeed.”

The customised ‘Training Plan’, having taken all these factors into consideration, is accessed via a super-convenient phone app which helps guide and track progress and is complemented by a combination of 1:1 feedback and mentoring sessions, group support where you can share experiences with others, tips and tools to create good habits. Self-discovery plays an important part in the programme. Becoming more self-aware and being able to recognise negative thought patterns and actively choosing to replace them with positive affirmations can be a powerful tool in the arsenal against day-to-day challenges and mental health struggles. It all starts with a ‘Discovery Call’ so, as we head into another year, are you ready to make that commitment to yourself and your family and be the very best that you can be? n “He makes you realise that you can achieve things and 1:1 sessions are both enlightening and empowering. I have had some massive highs and lows on my journey so far. I have come to celebrate the highs and with Nate’s help, navigate the lows. Nate takes time to get to know and understand you and this enables him to push you further than you ever thought you could go. You quickly learn that there is no such thing as ‘can’t’ on Nate’s Way.” Lesley Penrose

Nate’s Way 07896 255349 nate.a.sewell@gmail.com nates-way.com Nate’s Way @nate.sewell1988

Discover Laser patient - before and two years after one UltraPulse CO2 Laser Resurfacing treatment (no other treatments)

SKIN RESTORATION

“S

ince my late 20s, I’ve looked after my skin, having regular facial treatments and using good quality products every day. Despite this, I had pigmentation and sun damage which were becoming more extensive and weren’t responding to my current beauty treatments or products. I was becoming more selfconscious about the appearance of my skin, especially as makeup didn’t really help either. “I was encouraged by my regular beauty therapist to see someone else to explore whether there were treatments that could make a difference to my skin. Until I met Dr Montero at Discover Laser Medical Skin Clinic in Burnley, I hadn’t realised other options might even be available. “I had several appointments with the clinic therapists and Dr Montero, where my skin was thoroughly assessed and photographed, and different treatment options were discussed and explained to me. “I had reservations about how painful the actual treatment would be and how long the downtime would be. But by the time I came to have treatment, whilst I wasn’t looking forward to the procedure itself, I was definitely confident I was in the right place with the right clinician and had no questions unanswered. The downtime estimates and aftercare processes were exactly as predicted. “My skin post-treatment was better than I could ever have hoped! It improved in the immediate months following the procedure, and continues to get better. It’s coming up to two years since my CO2 laser treatment and I am still so pleased with the way my skin looks and how easy it is to care for. If

CROW WOOD, ROYLE LANE, BURNLEY BB12 0RT

Time and sun exposure take their toll on skin and confidence as one Discover Laser patient explains, choosing a treatment and practitioner to meet your needs is the key to restoring both I WAS BECOMING MORE SELF-CONSCIOUS ABOUT THE APPEARANCE OF MY SKIN, ESPECIALLY AS MAKEUP DIDN’T REALLY HELP EITHER anything, I feel the improvements are more apparent as time goes on. “So many people have commented on how ‘well’ I look without really knowing why. I can use less makeup, and it sits so much better on my skin now as it is much more even and smooth. “Everyone at Discover Laser is knowledgeable and friendly and can’t do enough to help you. The clinic is clean, calm and welcoming, and you continue to receive follow-up care and regular reviews after your treatment. “I hadn’t realised, until I did my research, and had my treatment, just how lucky we are to have access to the correct laser equipment and the skills of Dr Montero here on our doorstep in Lancashire - there are very few of these options outside London. “For anyone considering having treatment, just book an appointment with Dr Montero to discuss potential treatment options, especially if you are unsure. He explains things in an easy-to-understand,

non-pressured way which will help you make the right choice - at all times, he is calm, extremely knowledgeable and approachable.” The patient chose to have UltraPulse CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing, a highly effective treatment using the most powerful CO2 laser in medicine. The laser’s intense energy penetrates deeply into damaged skin to precisely remove it, triggering the regeneration of collagen and elastin. UltraPulse isn’t like a traditional CO2 laser, which removes all the skin and results in a lot of downtime and potential scarring some skin is left untouched, which massively speeds up the healing process. 

MY SKIN POSTTREATMENT WAS BETTER THAN I COULD EVER HAVE HOPED! To book your UltraPulse® Consultation - call Discover Laser’s friendly team on 01282 420886 to book an appointment. To find out more about treatment visit: www.discoverlaser.co.uk

health&beauty inspired by nature. Whichever way you gaze from your reformer, be prepared to be captivated by views of Downham village and the rolling countryside. With a spacious car park, the stress of rushing to a class is replaced with ease. For those looking to extend the post-workout glow, beautiful walking routes surround the studio and the village pub, the Assheton Arms, beckons for a welldeserved coffee or bite to eat.

REFORMER PILATES IN DOWNHAM Nestled in the enchanting village of Downham, Three Breaths stands as a beacon of tranquillity and rejuvenation

ounded by Ainsley Harris, the boutique Three Breaths Reformer Pilates Studio has quickly become a sought-after venue for those seeking the ultimate whole-body workout and respite from the chaos of daily life. The mission? To guide individuals towards relaxation, physical strength and overall wellbeing. At the heart of Three Breaths lies the transformative Reformer Pilates class. Imagine a workout that combines the precision of weight training, the flexibility of yoga and the core-strengthening principles of Pilates. This whole-body burn, conducted in a fastpaced, energetic and remarkably enjoyable setting, has garnered acclaim from participants who marvel at how swiftly

time passes during these sessions and how they’ve never felt stronger. Since opening its doors in September, Three Breaths has grown organically and has been consistently fully booked. However, exciting news awaits those eager to embark on their reformer journey – the studio is expanding with the addition of two more reformers in January, offering new clients the chance to secure a regular spot in their sought-after classes.

AFTER EIGHT WEEKS OF CLASSES, I’VE NEVER FELT STRONGER AND MY BACK PAIN HAS DISAPPEARED! The feedback has been unanimous: “I can’t believe how fast the time went. It was intense, but so much fun.” “After eight weeks of classes, I’ve never felt stronger and my back pain has disappeared!” The studio itself is a testament to mindful design, boasting a calm and tranquil space

Yoga enthusiasts will find solace in the main hall, where small class sizes ensure ample space to stretch and relax. The breathtaking views contribute to a connection with nature, a growing priority as we recognise the health benefits of being in natural surroundings. Each yoga class concludes with a serene savasana, accompanied by the therapeutic sounds of crystal bowls, providing a harmonious end to the session. Beyond daily classes, Three Breaths elevates its offerings through transformative retreats. Co-founded by Ainsley Harris and lifelong friend Caroline Dakin, the Resilience Retreat hosts half-day and three-night retreats, providing a profound wellbeing boost. Notably, these retreats have gained popularity among organisations aiming to prioritise the wellness of their workforce. The next retreat is at Mitton Hall on 1st February (theresilienceretreat.co.uk). n For those eager to explore the offerings at Three Breaths, more information can be found at threebreaths.co.uk or by calling 07758 938592. Follow their inspiring journey on Instagram @three_breaths and step into newfound strength, relaxation and wellness for 2024.

07758 938592 threebreaths.co.uk @three_breaths

health&beauty

BE CONFIDENT

IN THE SKIN YOU ARE IN, IN 2024! EMA Skin Aesthetics Ltd founder and director Emma Pearce talks to Sarah Varley about the transformative anti-ageing results and skin confidence she achieves for her clients

s an aesthetic skin specialist with the most advanced training and experience, Emma specialises in rediscovering clients’ youthful looks with non-invasive, scientifically-proven technology.

Hi Emma, what are the most common skin issues you deal with? The anti-ageing skin issues I solve the most are for women in their 40s to late 70s, most commonly feeling they have aged dramatically overnight, noticing lines, sagging and bags under their eyes which is affecting their confidence. Many clients have mentioned feeling they have ‘let themselves go’ and as a result have noticed a negative impact on their skin including more prominent fine lines and wrinkles. There is no need to put up with feeling like this. I have lots of clients who thought they had left it too late to eliminate signs of ageing, but it is never too late. My oldest client is 85 and she looks incredible!

What is the treatment you most recommend? Definitely Plasma Pen! It’s perfect for treating all these issues and regaining your skin confidence. It rebuilds and strengthens the skin’s scaffolding, restoring your skin to how it was in youthful years. This non-invasive procedure is becoming the most pioneering anti-ageing treatment available today due to the astounding results achieved by the industry’s leading skin specialists.

Plasma Pen tightens and eliminates fine lines and wrinkles naturally by working with your skin.

as the weeks go by and last up to three years. It is fantastic for tightening and erasing sagging jowls, turkey necks, marionette lines, smile and smokers’ lines around the lips, crows’ feet, puffy eyes, drooping eyelids and chest lines. I have achieved results with Plasma Pen that have been truly life-changing for my clients. Experience and expertise is crucial to assuring results that exceed your expectations. I know exactly which areas to target and techniques to use to deliver exceptional results for each client. It’s virtually pain-free with minimal downtime and often only one treatment is needed. What results can we expect? Plasma Pen is so effective because it rebuilds and strengthens the skin’s fibroblasts, which we refer to as the scaffolding of the skin, and powerfully stimulates collagen and elastin production for dramatic results. These results improve

SPECIAL OFFERS!

Plasma Pen treatments start at £250 per area. Due to popular demand, Emma is offering Live Magazines’ readers £175 off the price of each area. PLUS 20% off HYPAPEN TREATMENTS Offers ends 29th February 2024

If you want to regain your youthful looks and still look like you, this is the perfect treatment. You can turn back the clock with this scientifically-proven technology and importantly delivered by a renowned experienced skin specialist. All my clients have been absolutely delighted with the results! n

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

health&beauty

LOVING THE SKIN YOU’RE IN... For most women approaching midlife and dealing with the menopause, loss of skin tone, texture and luminosity are side effects that are often difficult to come to terms with

oestrogen levels, and you have the perfect storm. As a result, skin looks thinner, with a loss of tone and firmness – and more visible lines and wrinkles. But the visible effects aren’t the only area of concern as collagen is the glue that holds your ligaments, joints and bones together.

Thankfully, specialists have been researching exactly this area for many years, and believe they have the answer.

INTRODUCING COLLAGEN

Collagen supplements are being hailed as the new skin saviours. To better explain, let’s answer a few questions:

WHAT IS COLLAGEN?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body. It gives structure to our skin (skin is made up of 75 per cent collagen and gives skin its strength and elasticity), bones, muscles and other connective tissue. Collagen production starts to slow down at around 25, and by the age of 45, levels have fallen by as much as 30 per cent – which is when you really start to notice. Add to the mix the onset of menopause and lowering

Each shot contains 10,000mgs of hydrolysed marine collagen, hyaluronic acid, acai berry super antioxidant, vitamins B3, B5, B6, C (the process of collagen formation is heavily dependent on vitamin C), zinc and copper to boost your levels of peptide-rich amino acids. (Not advisable for those with fish or shellfish allergies.) An anti-ageing cocktail that gradually, but dramatically, improves the appearance of skin tone and texture by helping to:

or those of us who are unwilling to embrace wrinkle smoothing injections and fillers, it can be hard to know how best to help our skin to restore and improve that all elusive radiance as we age. There are many brilliant skin care regimes which have the added benefit of being organic and vegan (Dr. Hauschka and Nourish) and which do a fabulous job for the surface of your skin. A healthy diet is also a must – but what about the complex world of supplements? How do you navigate it and, do they really work?

INGREDIENTS

• Reduce the appearance of lines, wrinkles and ‘crow’s feet’ • Make skin appear younger with added radiance • Increase skin firmness and hydration • Improve elasticity of the skin

WHAT ARE COLLAGEN SHOTS? Rejuvenated Collagen Shots are clinically formulated powders which you mix with water to create a drink.

Intensive research has clinically proven that taking collagen orally bolsters collagen levels, which in turn restores skin’s tone, pliability and thickness, counteracting sagging, dehydration, crêpiness (lovely!) and wrinkling. A study in the Natural Medicine Journal showed that women who took collagen saw significant improvement in skin texture after six months. The gold standard is bioavailable hydrolysed marine collagen.

HOW TO USE

For maximum benefits take a Collagen Shot daily, ideally half an hour before bedtime which is when cells are renewing. Alternatively have on an empty stomach either first thing in the morning or before a meal. To taste, it is rather pleasant and has a delicate berry flavour.

• Reduce skin dryness • Increase skin smoothness Collagen Shots are suitable for diabetics, 100 per cent natural ingredients, gluten-free, lactose-free and contain hyaluronic-acid. What’s NOT to like! n Melt Backridge Farm Waddington BB7 3LQ 01200 443377 www.themeltco.com /meltcandles themeltco @meltcandles

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health&beauty

REFRESH AND RENEW

The Doctor & Company are kickstarting 2024 with a range of wonderful rejuvenating treatments for a fresh new you, writes Gail Bailey

The EyeTite package includes a course of three Morpheus8 Prime Eye treatments, three Forma treatments, plus a ZO Skin Health Growth Factor Eye Serum: “Another amazing package that is a real boost for patients who are suffering from tired eyes and at £1300 this is a discount of nearly £400,” says Dr Natalie.

has also been enhanced by incorporating the ZO Firming Serum into the treatment to penetrate the skin and enhance the work of the newly-boosted collagen and elastin. With the addition of Dermalux LED light therapy, this is a fabulous facial therapy to rejuvenate, renew and refresh!

Continually upskilling, Dr Natalie and Dr Florentyna have recently qualified in an innovative new rejuvenating treatment using polynucleotides. Dr Natalie explains: “Polynucleotides help the cells to regenerate vascular tissue which improves skin texture, reduce wrinkles and enhances skin elasticity. This treatment is especially good for those who the traditional tear trough filler may not be suitable, with one session costing £250 and a course of three £650.”

Dr Natalie adds: “2023 was an amazing year for us and we are excited to continue leading the way in aesthetics as we head into 2024.” n

r Natalie Haworth is the lead clinician and owner of The Doctor & Company and has over a decade of experience as an aesthetic physician, and even longer as a medical doctor. Driven by a dedication to patient-centred care and natural but noticeable treatments, she is recognised as a leader in the aesthetics industry: “Our expertise is making our treatments undetectable and we are passionate about this in all the services we offer. We ensure our clients look and feel their absolute best, with glowing healthy skin.” Always at the forefront of the industry, Dr Natalie shares a range of treatments she personally recommends to refresh, rejuvenate and achieve a more youthful appearance. The Lyft & Lite package is a gold standard treatment for a non-surgical lifting effect, tailored to the patients’ individual skin needs. The package includes a course of three Morpheus8 treatments, two Profhilo treatments, dermal fillers and medical grade skincare to be used throughout the treatments. Perfectly priced at £2,450 – a discount of nearly £300!

OUR EXPERTISE IS MAKING OUR TREATMENTS UNDETECTABLE. WE ENSURE OUR CLIENTS LOOK AND FEEL THEIR ABSOLUTE BEST, WITH GLOWING HEALTHY SKIN The Doctor & Company is the first UK clinic to stock and train in Jalupro YoungEye, YoungEye and SuperHydro are two amazing rejuvenating treatments that help plump and brighten aged skin. The treatment contains amino acids, peptides and hyaluronic acid, which feed the fibroblasts in our skin, which stop working as we age. Jalupro YoungEye is £250 for one session or a course of three for £650. Jalupro SuperHydro is £300 for one session with a course of three £800. The highly effective Morpheus8 treatment

The Doctor & Company Nymrod House, 85 King Street Whalley BB7 9SW 265 Monton Road Eccles, Greater Manchester M30 9LF 01200 871227 hello@thedoctorandcompany.com thedoctorandcompany.co.uk drnatalieclinics drnataliehaworth thedoctorandcompany

BEST OF THE BEST As 2023 came to a close, Ribble Valley-based Renovo Dental was named as Best Practice of the Year North West at the national Dentistry Awards and Best Referral Practice North at the Private Dentistry Awards in London

he specialist team at private dental clinic Renovo Dental were celebrating recently after winning two major accolades. At a prestigious black tie dinner Renovo was named Best Practice of the Year North West at the national Dentistry Awards 2023 while at a glittering ceremony at Grosvenor House in Mayfair, London, Renovo was crowned Best Referral Practice 2023 North at

the esteemed Private Dentistry Awards. Delighted with the two awards, Dr Usman Riaz, Renovo’s clinical director, says: “At the Private Dentistry Awards there were just two Best Referral Practice winners – north and south – so to win is just fantastic! “At the national Dentistry Awards we were up against some of the best practices in cities such as Manchester and Liverpool, so to become a finalist and then to win was amazing.

“Both these awards are for the whole team and our patients. We are all extremely proud as it’s a great achievement,” says Usman, who is joined by six dental clinicians at Renovo as well as a team of support staff and dental nurses.

WE HAVE INVESTED IN A SKILLED TEAM AND SUPPORT THEM WITH THE LATEST DENTAL TECHNOLOGY “It is testament to the dedication and passion of our super-talented team members, who consistently go above and beyond, ensuring every patient experience is exceptional. “We had two wonderful evenings celebrating with some of the best dental clinics that the country has to offer. Congratulations to all the finalists and award winners.’’

health&beauty

The strict criteria that judges use in selecting the very best in the region, include the individual skillset of all the team, patient case presentation, the innovative technology available at each individual practice and, of course, patient experience. “The judges look at the facilities and the quality of the work carried out across the board,” says Usman.

WE LOVE WHAT WE DO AND WE HAVE COME TOGETHER WITH A VISION TO ACHIEVE EXCELLENCE AND I THINK THESE LATEST AWARDS REFLECT THIS “They are from the dental industry – our peers, who are all experts. It’s a very vigorous process but at Renovo we all work hard and to a very high standard, so to be recognised as the best of the best means a lot to us! “It’s a dream to achieve these accolades so early in our journey. A heartfelt thank-you to our amazing patients who have been with us since opening less than three years ago – your support and motivation drives us to be the best. This achievement would not have been possible without all of you. We are only as good as our patients. We’ll continue pushing our limits to make you proud!’’ specialists, it’s about our patients, changing mindsets and attitudes surrounding dentistry. “We love what we do and we have come together with a vision to achieve excellence and we feel these latest awards reflect this.” n

Renovo Dental is one of the few practices in the North West to offer such a high level of in-house specialist dentistry and being independent gives them the freedom to offer each patient the very best personalised treatment. The state-of-the-art surgery at Pendle House in Chatburn, features world-leading, digital technology: “We have invested in a skilled team and support them with the latest dental technology that means patients not only receive the highest standard of care, but treatments are faster, more comfortable and more convenient than ever,” adds Usman. Receiving referrals from other dentists

throughout the region, Renovo also takes self-referred patients, who feel they may benefit from a consultation with one of the in-house specialists. From gum disease to preventing tooth loss, dental implants and bone regeneration to first class cosmetic dentistry, the team at Renovo Dental are committed to offering gold-standard, minimally invasive treatments to patients: “This is bespoke dentistry,” says Usman. “Everybody here has a specialism that they have worked very hard to achieve. “We are all passionate about what we do and we are all very dedicated. But, Renovo is much bigger than a group of individual

Renovo Dental Pendle House Clitheroe Road Chatburn BB7 4JY 01200 441000 hello@renovodental.co.uk renovodental.co.uk

@renovodental

health&beauty

LOOKING FRESH FOR A NEW YEAR If you’re looking to freshen up your appearance for 2024, then RejuvaMed’s Medical Director Dr Grant McKeating can help

hen choosing a clinic for your aesthetic treatments, it’s vital that you look closely at the qualifications and reputation of your practitioner. Dr Grant McKeating has worked as a hospital consultant for nearly 24 years, and in aesthetic medicine for 11 of those. You can trust him to deliver a safe and expert treatment. Firstly, you’ll have 30 minutes set aside with Dr Grant in RejuvaMed’s Clitheroe or Chorley clinic for a full consultation to discuss your concerns in detail. He will then recommend and discuss suitable treatments for you.

Dr Grant says: “The most important issue to address in people who are in their 40s and beyond is the sagging of their facial features. “As you age you lose fat and bone, and treatments that give lift and restore volume are the most important. Careful use of dermal fillers in a full-face rejuvenation, or the use of new technology such as Morpheus8, can subtly transform your appearance. Make sure you see someone medically qualified in an established clinic, who doesn’t just visit a local salon once a month. Good aftercare is vital.” Dr Grant offers wrinkle relaxing treatments, non-surgical facelifts and treatment of facial thread veins (see images) amongst other anti-ageing therapies. n To arrange a consultation please call the clinic on 01200 538668 or scan the QR code on this page to book online

BANISH VARICOSE VEINS

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

elivered by consultant vascular surgeon Mr Vittorio Perricone, RejuvaMed offers the only dedicated varicose vein treatment centre in Lancashire. With a nationwide reputation for quality care and exceptional results, the centre is now established as the leading provider of varicose vein treatment in the North West at prices way below Lancashire’s private hospitals. Mr Perricone has worked within the NHS and privately for more than 25 years, and now consults privately solely at RejuvaMed. As Dr Grant McKeating, RejuvaMed’s Medical Director explains, the centre offers a real alternative to the NHS: “Funding for

treatment for varicose veins has been rationed by the NHS, meaning patients often have to pay for their procedure. Where NHS treatment is available, waiting lists are incredibly long. We offer appointments within a couple of weeks and safe, relatively painless treatments with excellent results and minimal recovery time.” As well as offering radiofrequency (RF) ablation treatment for varicose veins from just £1885, RejuvaMed offers the innovative VenaSealTM procedure, which uses medical adhesive rather than a heat source to seal the diseased vein. Normally priced at over £3,000 in other clinics and hospitals, RejuvaMed’s price is £2410 for one leg and £2725 for both. n For more information on pricing, or to book a consultation with Mr Perricone, email: info@rejuvamed.co.uk or call the clinic on: 01200 538668

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health&beauty Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, Clinical Psychologist and Social Worker, to ensure diagnostic agreement. The team use the ‘gold standard’ diagnostic tools, as set out by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). For assessment of ASD, Dr Whitaker will meet with parents to complete the Autism Diagnostic Interview Revised version (ADI-R). This is a semi-structured interview, with an emphasis upon the child or young person’s early development.

ADVANCEMENTS IN NEURODIVERSITY RESEARCH AND PSYCHOMETRIC MEASURES MEAN WE ARE NOW ABLE TO IDENTIFY AND DIAGNOSE EARLIER

COMPASSION AND CARE Clinical Psychologist Dr Kim Whitaker speaks to Gail Bailey about her professional practice and the assessment and diagnostic service she offers. Photography: Michael Porter

egistered, Chartered Clinical Psychologist, Dr Kim Whitaker, has over 24 years post qualification experience and is skilled in the assessment of children, young people and adults: “After qualifying, I worked in the NHS for 10 years in both Adult Community Mental Health and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services,” she explains. “Since moving into private practice, the majority of my referrals come through solicitors.” Dr Whitaker has devoted her last 15 years to completing medico-legal assessments for the civil courts and her expertise is also regularly called upon to provide opinion in Family Law matters.

Alongside this, Dr Whitaker and her team have expanded the scope of their work to provide evidence-based reports in the field of Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and related conditions such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), providing an assessment, diagnosis and recommendation service across the age range. Dr Whitaker explains: “Advancements in neurodiversity research and psychometric measures mean we are now able to identify and diagnose earlier, to ensure that children get the right guidance to support them with their needs, helping them achieve their potential in education and beyond.” She works as part of a team made up of a

Direct assessment is completed using the Autism Observation Schedule (ADOS-2). This is a structured, standardised assessment of communication, social interaction, play/ imagination and restricted/repetitive behaviour. It is play-based in the case of children, but can be more conversational, dependent upon the age and speech/language abilities of the person being assessed. “The ADOS and ADI-R processes give us the opportunity to consider strengths as well as challenges, as well as offering a way of understanding specific behaviours. Where we feel the need for further information, we will have a discussion with school staff or other family members.” Dr Whitaker notes: “We do not prescribe medication, rather we formulate and develop methods and strategies to support and celebrate neurodiverse children and people, and to ensure that those around them know how to work together to support them.” Much of Dr Whitaker’s work is conducted in the Lancashire area (Preston, Burnley and the Ribble Valley) though she also holds regular clinics in Dublin, Liverpool and Manchester. Appointments and therapy can also be conducted by video link, dependent on individual needs. n

For further information contact her dedicated team.

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CREATIVE JOURNEY Photographer Simon Sharp is using his unique skillset to help others develop cultural self-confidence through meaningful creativity. He is currently developing a residential photography experience in Bowland

renowned photographer who works with a 1950s camera and traditional film is set to lead a number of workshops and retreats that encourage reflection along with cultural and creative development. Known for his images of Bowland, Simon Sharp has just completed the Camera Work course, with a community group who were

referred into Simon’s project through social prescribing: “Rather than call this ‘therapeutic’, I look at this as a way to help people re-connect with their creative self,” he explains. “Within the group we had people with autism, ME and social anxiety, who had opted into the course as a wellbeing activity. What came out of it was an unleashing of knowledge they already possessed.

lifestyle

“We work with film because everything slows down, it gives people time to reflect and engage with others. It enables us to see things we haven’t seen before. “At the beginning I take on the role of a guide. No-one had experienced working with film and negatives, the number of photographs we worked with was limited, which is good for creativity, but we need to guide that process, build skills and tease out visual literacy. “By the end of the project, I was able to step back and just be there – the group were editing their own and each others, work. Though diverse, they had found a common language.

WHEN YOU HAVE TIME, YOU LOOK THROUGH A CAMERA LENS AND SEE THINGS DIFFERENTLY. THAT CLICK OF THE SHUTTER IS A MICROCOSM OF THE CREATIVE JOURNEY “The process allowed them to gain confidence and they were proud to show their work to others. Everyone has a voice and the camera work amplified that by their choices. The images produced reflected their individual character and personality. They were totally unique.” Simon, who has worked internationally on film documentaries focusing on working conditions in developing nations, sees all camera work as an agent for social change as well as personal enrichment: “People think cameras are restrictive, but I think the opposite. A camera often gives permission – I have been invited into communities that I had no cultural connection with during my work in Asia and the UK, all because I had a camera in my hand. It opens up the world.” Going into the new year, Simon is hoping to run a residential, ‘creative experience’ for photographers, focusing on the rugged landscape of Bowland: “I don’t want to call it a workshop – people are individual creators and I want them to engage with the landscape around them on a singular level. I don’t want them lining up at beauty spots to take the same shot as everybody else. “It certainly won’t be about taking picture postcard photographs – working with film is all about time and light. It’s not about going out with a digital camera and taking a hundred pictures. I want people to be present and engaged in space and place. The digital world gives no time for reflection or opportunity for imperfection – it brings out the worst in us. Everyone seems to want things more perfect – again and again.

“This will be a creative experience where everyone is an active participant. A horizontal field where everyone is learning from each other. I’d love to see people leave with just a couple of photographs, but 50 ideas.” The residential course, set in the heart of Bowland, will feature a dedicated dark room, photographic processing and alternate process experts and guest speakers, reflecting on their own cultural influences and photographic practices. Simon adds: “It will be a sanctuary where we are de-digitalising for a few days – we don’t want algorithms getting in the way of our potential. “My Sinar Norma camera connects me to time. You can’t rush. Photographs are formed in the the light and it’s their imperfections that make them beautiful.

“We have become alienated from the landscape and the Bowland experience is an opportunity that will put creative people together, to go into a wild space and experience something meaningful. “When you have time, you look through a camera lens and see things differently. That click of the shutter is a microcosm of the creative journey. It’s about doing things with meaning and soul.” n

To find out more about the residential Bowland experience or the Camera Work courses, contact Simon: 07913 698998 simon@thecamerawork.com simonsharp.co.uk

lifestyle continuous self-improvement throughout the year. Cultivating habits and making gradual lifestyle changes can also be a more sustainable approach. Typical areas for self-development may be, health, fitness, work, learning, relationships taking up a new sport – there are many options. Maybe 2024 is the year you want to really push yourself and take yourself out of your comfort zone - think about what that looks like for you and put it in your plan. Decide on your end goal and when you want to achieve it by. Then take some time to look at everything that needs to happen for that goal to become a reality. Break it down to tasks and decide how you are going to work on each task. You may colour code them as to how challenging they are going to be and make sure you work on a mix of the easier and more difficult tasks.

MIND MAT TERS tends to wane over time, leading to a loss of focus on the resolution.

Instead of traditional New Year’s resolutions, consider setting specific, realistic goals with measurable steps. Focus on creating sustainable habits and emphasise progress over perfection. It can be helpful to set smaller, achievable milestones throughout the year rather than one overarching resolution. Additionally, prioritise self-compassion and adaptability, acknowledging that setbacks are a normal part of any journey towards self-improvement.

Do things differently in 2024 – don’t start the year setting yourself up to fail. A series of small wins all contribute to your larger goals, advises therapeutic coach Lynn Scholes

ew Year’s resolutions often fail because they’re often vague, unrealistic or lack a clear plan. People may set overly ambitious goals without breaking them down into smaller, achievable steps, making it harder to stay committed. Additionally, motivation

IF YOU SET ONLY ONE GOAL IN 2024 MAKE IT TO BE HAPPY AND HAVE FUN, WHATEVER THAT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU Some people replace traditional New Year’s resolutions with goal-setting frameworks like SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound). This for me is too business like and whilst it may work for the process driven amongst us, it can feel too prescriptive. The model I have seen most people have success with is to opt for theme-based intentions for the year, focusing on broader areas of improvement or personal development. Instead of a single resolution, people may set ongoing, smaller goals and prioritise

Achieving the easier ones will keep you motivated to keep going with the more difficult ones. For most people writing things down is really important. However, for those that writing doesn’t help, why not record yourself a set of voice notes. For many sharing your goals with a friend and asking them to check in with you every now and again, may help to keep you focused. Remember to celebrate the small wins, just like pennies add up to pounds, the small wins all contribute to your larger goals. Many golfers when asked about mindset will tell you they do not focus on the end result, but they focus on the process of how to get there. They don’t look at the score but concentrate on hitting each shot to the best of their ability. Do that and the score will take care of itself. If you set only one goal in 2024 make it to be happy and have fun, whatever that looks like for you. n

Lynn Scholes is a writer, therapeutic coach, trainer and speaker working with individuals and companies

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

LEFT OUT OF A WILL – WHAT ARE YOUR OPTIONS? Losing a loved one is a difficult time which can be made even worse by finding out you’ve been left out of their will, if you were expecting to be a beneficiary. However, there may be some options available to you, explains Rachel Harrison, Partner at Farleys child that has been ‘left out’ may need to make a claim for reasonable financial provision from the estate. If a couple is unmarried and share children, and one of the parents passes away without a will, their estate will pass to the children and the surviving partner may need to make a claim under the 1975 Act in order to receive a share of the estate.

MAKING A CLAIM UNDER THE INHERITANCE (PROVISION FOR FAMILY AND DEPENDANTS) ACT 1975

If you’ve been left out of a will completely, not been left as much as you expected, or have received nothing due to the deceased having no will, you may have grounds to make a claim for reasonable financial provision from the estate under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 (‘the 1975 Act’). Claims under the 1975 Act are particularly common due to the rise of second families. When a parent has remarried without making specific provision in a will for any children from their first marriage or relationship, any

IF YOU HAVE CONCERNS OVER THE VALIDITY OF A WILL YOU MAY HAVE GROUNDS TO CHALLENGE IT CONTEST A WILL

Alternatively, if you have concerns over the validity of a will you may have grounds to challenge it. The grounds for contesting a will are broadly as follows:

Contesting a will on the grounds of mental capacity can be difficult. Medical evidence showing that the testator lacked capacity at the time they made the will is required to support the claim. Challenging a will based on allegations of forgery often involve the instruction of a handwriting expert to determine whether the testator’s signature is genuine. You may also need evidence from other witnesses regarding the preparation and execution of the will. While there is no time limit for challenging the validity of a will, in order to make a claim under the 1975 Act, you will need to issue your claim within six months of the date of the grant of probate. We would always advise you speak to a solicitor at the earliest opportunity in order to understand your legal position and what options are available to you. n

• You believe the testator lacked the mental capacity to make a will • You believe the will was made under undue influence • You believe the will was forged

To speak to an expert at Farleys, please call 01254 368040, email: info@farleys.com, or visit the website for more information: farleys.com

Returning to the subject of her professional working life, Anna’s personal vision is to develop and promote Whalley Abbey as a space that benefits people from all walks of life: “We are a safe place for everyone, whatever their background.” Anna and her husband, who have two adult children, moved from Finland to the UK 15 years ago. She has worked in various roles across the North West and has ambitious plans for the 13th century Cistercian abbey, which is steeped in

THE WORLD IS CHANGING AND THE CHURCH NEEDS TO CHANGE WITH IT SO WE HAVE TO LOOK AT HOW WE CAN MAKE IT MORE RELEVANT

SPIRITUAL POWERHOUSE Set amidst the tranquil, Ribble Valley countryside, historic Whalley Abbey is becoming ‘a powerhouse for spiritual growth’. Newly appointed director Rev Anna Walker explains

orn and educated in Finland, Rev Anna Walker has recently been commissioned as the new director of Whalley Abbey. Anna, who trained in the church in Helsinki, is quietly spoken and exudes serenity, she’s cheerful and extremely positive about how we can gain peace and stillness in an ever-changing world.

She met her Scottish husband Andrew during her gap year at a French monastery, and perhaps surprisingly, they have a shared love of rock music and attend ‘rock masses’ in Holy Nativity in Halifax: “That really blows away the cobwebs!” she smiles. “It’s a ‘smells and bells’ experience with incense and prog rock. It’s a fabulous event – something really new.”

history and is located next to the River Calder in extensive grounds in the heart of Whalley: “The abbey is owned by the Blackburn Diocese and, under their Vision 2026 programme, is the Centre for Christian Discipleship and Prayer – a powerhouse for personal and spiritual growth.” As well as offering residential retreats – there are 17 comfortable en-suite rooms and a cottage – the abbey offers courses, quiet days, training, hospitality and talks: “This is not just for holy people,” says Anna. “It’s for the benefit of everyone. There are times for prayer, but visitors can simply walk in the grounds and take time to reflect. It’s a

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place where you can listen to what’s going on in your heart. “Our retreats enable people to take a bit more time to relieve the burdens of everyday life. Visitors can contemplate where they are going and return to their life with new resources to help them. It is very refreshing.” Guest speakers, including Anna, talk about their faith, the Bible, Celtic spirituality, the saints and mystics: “We are tapping into different, rich traditions and the speakers all have a message that draws us into stillness. “Having experienced one of our retreats, talks or quiet days people often come back over and over again as it is something that feeds their soul.” Events and courses offered by the abbey is also something Anna would like to expand upon: “We hope to be a resource for churches. The world is changing and the church needs to change with it so we have to look at how we can meet the needs of the community and how we make the church relevant.

“There are so many demands on us and so much information in today’s world. You can read the Bible in so many different ways and you can ask yourself, ‘What does it say about our present-day situation?’”

IT’S A PLACE WHERE YOU CAN LISTEN TO WHAT’S GOING ON IN YOUR HEART Courses at the abbey include Bread of Life – a quiet day of bread making that also gives time to reflect on the significance and symbolism of bread in the Bible through the art of baking: “If someone is looking to find their own talent or gift, our courses may spark a new interest,” says Anna. In recent times Whalley Abbey has forged a reputation as being a quiet space for spiritual contemplation and this is also something Anna would like to develop. Prayers are held in the chapel four times a day, giving visitors the chance to reflect in

the quiet and calmness of the abbey: “There is always the opportunity here to enjoy silence. The grounds are so lovely whatever the season. In autumn, as the leaves turn, the trees look amazing while in summer we have the beautiful rose gardens. “I’d also like to develop little spaces within the abbey grounds with statues, icons and candles, where visitors can stop, sit and reflect. “The history of the abbey and the monastery is also fascinating, and we are pleased to welcome the local community and visitors from further afield to come and learn about it and walk among the ruins. “We want to invite more people and would like more parishes to experience the abbey as their place. Even if you just need to talk to someone, there is always someone here.” n Bread of Life – a quiet day of bread making, will be held on Saturday 13th January 2024. whalleyabbey.org

lifestyle ribbon in gold, blue and purple Pony Club colours along with twinkling fairy lights! It certainly stood its ground among all the other lovingly decorated trees and we are always thrilled to get involved at local Chipping village events.

IN THE SADDLE

We also took a look back at our 2023 Awards Evening. From January right through to December, members have been to training sessions, fundraisers and competitions and all of this culminated into the much-anticipated night of trophies and rosettes, not forgetting the all-important pie and disco after! There were awards for attendance in all age categories and overall, the combined tack and turnout marks from our rallies, exceptional members in various disciplines such as eventing, showjumping and mounted games and general horsemanship. Individual members (and even ponies) get to appreciate their value within the club and reminisce on the successes of the year.

Even in harsher weather conditions, members of Chipping Pony Club continued their team spirit and camaraderie throughout December, writes Megan Conlon

rapping up warm, with a bit of tinsel here and there, Chipping Pony Club held their annual Christmas Rally which, as ever, saw some brilliant outfits, constructive expertise from our instructors and of course, chocolate! It is always a lovely way to begin the Christmas holidays and bring some Christmas cheer with our friends and horses – even if some of those smaller ponies might be on the naughty list! Our members were put into different rides based on ability and previous experience and worked their socks off both on the flat and over jumps and the ponies did their riders proud with their determination. If Father Christmas ever loses a reindeer – he knows who to call! We also got into the Christmas spirit with the annual wreath-making fundraiser. With the guidance of Sarah Fishwick, everyone picked their materials and got to work on their wreath. No two look the same but every single one was picture-perfect, certainly rivalling any shop-bought one. It is a lovely chance to

switch off from the outside world and create something with a personal touch to add to your home. We also contributed to a local project within Chipping at St Bartholomew’s Parish Church where we decorated our own Pony Club themed Christmas tree! Members adorned the branches with drawings of their ponies, achievement badges and rosettes,

The Winter League competitions have also continued, with Grace coming sixth in the Winter League Dressage, doing us proud. These will go on into 2024, along with our annual bingo night at Chipping Village Hall and the National Quiz competition which our members have been working hard for. Looking back on 2023, it has been a year of fun and friendship, of bonding with our equine companions who do so much for us. This is precisely the energy we are taking forward into 2024, where there are undoubtedly many more happy memories to come! n

If you’d like to know more about Pony Club, in particular Chipping Branch, please contact the District Commissioner Joanne Conlon 01200 445143 or email: chipping@pcuk.org

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train racehorses. There are gorgeous views across to Ullswater and the northern Lake District, as well as the Cumbrian Fells. We saw La Zoubida do two canters up the purpose-built, all-weather gallop and what a fluid, easy mover she is. She hasn’t run in a race yet so the plan will be to get her fit and ready to make her debut in March or April. Nicky will start her off in a National Hunt flat race to get her used to racing. If all goes well, he’s already earmarked a Mare’s Bumper at Cheltenham late April that would be her target for the early part of the year. She would then have a summer holiday before being brought back into training ahead of going novice hurdling in the autumn.

EASY MOVER… There are high hopes for La Zoubida, a beautiful filly that is set to start her racing career this spring, writes Jason Fildes

went up to Greystoke, near Penrith before Christmas to meet up with trainer Nicky Richards and have a look around his historic yard full of 80 horses.

Nicky had recently been to Ireland and had come back with the most beautiful threeyear-old filly. Her sire is Authorized, the 2007 Derby winner, ridden by Frankie Dettori. Authorized has been a superb sire of middledistance horses and Nicky rang to say that La Zoubida is one of the best of his offspring

that he’s ever seen. As you can imagine, with all the buzz about her, I was very much looking forward to seeing La Zoubida in the flesh so was thrilled that the sun was shining as we arrived in Cumbria. Nicky’s yard is only 10 minutes from the M6 but it feels worlds away as Greystoke is a lovely, picturesque village, overlooked by Greystoke Castle and estate. Nicky trains his horses on gallops that are on the estate and I have yet to see a more stunning place to

SHE HAS EVERYTHING YOU’D LOOK FOR IN A YOUNG HORSE – PRESENCE, PERFECT CONFORMATION AND A LOVELY NATURE. SHE MAKES COVERING THE GROUND LOOK EASY! I must say I haven’t been as excited about a National Hunt horse for a long time – and this wasn’t written after the excellent lunch we had in the Boot and Shoe pub in Greystoke afterwards! She has everything you’d look for in a young horse – presence, perfect conformation and a lovely nature. She makes covering the ground look easy! Nicky wanted to keep 10 per cent of her so I bought the other 90 per cent and we’re going to divide the ownership into 10 shares. Please give me a call or send an email to the details below if you are interested. I’m pleased to say that Live Ribble Valley’s MD Tedd Walmsley has been to see her and is going to be involved so we will be following La Zoubida’s journey (and that of her owners) as she starts her racing career later this spring. n

Fildes Racing fildesracing@gmail.com 07721 311778

ROYAL CONNECTIONS The ancient house of Greengore, near Hurst Green, has a fascinating history. Andrew Stachulski delves into the past to find out more

ortunately for those who love local history, the growth of the internet and the existence of highly detailed reference texts, has not taken the enjoyment, nor the labour, out of our research. The remarkable story of the fascinating old house of Greengore, which lies about one mile west of Hurst Green, is a case in point. The most obvious information trail will tell you that the house was built around 1605, but there was a building on the site centuries earlier. Greengore is easily reached by a pleasant path from Hurst Green, starting from the almshouses and proceeding via Dean Brook. Greengore is actually a family, rather than a place, name. The name has been traced back to an ancient legal document of 1262.

A later reference mentions that Thomas de Greengore (Greengaw) conferred some land to his son Adam in the manor of Bailey in 1314. For once, author Nikolaus Pevsner has rather

AT THIS TIME, STONYHURST COLLEGE HAD ALREADY BEEN ESTABLISHED IN ST OMER, FRANCE – THE COLLEGE WAS FIRST SITED ON ITS PRESENT GROUNDS IN 1794 little to say about Greengore: ‘A strange house, said to be a hunting lodge of Stonyhurst of the 15th century.’ He believes the construction of the windows and the striking external buttresses, date the current building to

Elizabethan times. It was declared a Grade II listed building in 1967. There were no inner walls originally, just a balcony and the massive oak trusses, which have survived, show that at one time there was a domed oak ceiling. There was a separate cottage used as servants quarters, and an adjacent barn which was used for several years as one of the YHA camping barns. The history of the old estate is complex. For many centuries Aighton, Bailey and Chaigley have been regarded as a joint parish, originally separate hamlets, as witnessed by the inscription on the Hurst Green almshouses. Probably Aighton (there are other old spellings) is the oldest and it can be dated back to at least 1086. Bailey is also an ancient manor, as the origins of Greengore testify, and the name survives in modified form in the Bayley Arms in Hurst Green. Chaigley is the one of the three lying to the north of Longridge Fell. Very little is known for certain about the

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older Greengore building, but Thomas de Greengore is mentioned on several charters from around 1300. The house and estate passed from the Greengore to the de Holden family in 1388 and Greengore is mentioned again in a document of 1428, early in the reign of Henry VI, when it was settled by Richard de Holden on his son Henry.

THE MOST INTRIGUING ASPECT OF GREENGORE’S HISTORY IS ITS ASSOCIATION WITH KING HENRY VII, WHO WAS REPUTED TO HAVE VISITED THE ESTATE FOR A SHOOTING PARTY Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of Greengore’s history is its association with King Henry VII, who was reputed to have visited the estate for a shooting party, though firm documentary evidence is lacking. At this stage Greengore was still independent of the Shireburn (Stonyhurst) estate. There is strong evidence that Henry VII knew the Shireburns, as he conferred an annuity on Sir Richard Shireburn, allowing him to benefit from the proceeds of the estate, around 1505. Quite possibly his visit for hunting – and maybe more than one – took place around this time. Greengore in this period lay within the Stonyhurst deer park and many sections of the old wall which bounded the deer park are extant, for instance by Stonyhurst Golf Club near the college. The later history of Greengore is chronicled in detail. The Holdens sold the house and estate to Sir Richard Shireburn in 1620. The Shireburns had been lords of the manor of Stonyhurst since the late 14th century, and Sir Richard had begun a new house around 1592 according to Pevsner. At this

time, Stonyhurst College had already been established in St Omer, France – the college was first sited on its present grounds in 1794. Subsequently Greengore changed hands many times, and in the 18th century it was for a time owned by Mary, Duchess of Norfolk. It last changed hands in 2020. There it is, a fascinating glimpse into our past feudal estates through the lens of a remarkable building. You have to feel that Greengore may have still more secrets to reveal, especially through its link with Henry VII. Perhaps more ancient documents will come to light – those of us who love local history hope so! n

Bibliography: ‘The Buildings of England, Lancashire: North’, Claire Hartwell and Nikolaus Pevsner (Yale University Press, 2009) British History Online: Victoria County History, Lancaster, vol. 7, Blackburn hundred: Mitton With thanks to Emma Turner, David Kay and Agnes Bland for their help and information used in preparing this article.

Andrew Stachulski is co-author with Helen Shelmerdine (nee Shaw) of ‘The Forest of Bowland’, published in 2015 by Merlin Unwin @£14.99

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CHARITY F O C U S Live Ribble Valley takes a look at an ongoing fundraising project that has seen thousands of pounds donated to good causes across the region If you have any charity news please contact: jan.woolley@live-magazines.co.uk “We hope the money raised so far will provide a real building block for us as we continue to strive to make a difference to the communities in which we operate.” The Stroke Association and Blackburn Rovers Community Trust (BRCT) both received more than £3,000 after Oli McCann plunged into the waters of England’s biggest lake and swam 10km. BRCT will use the money specifically to help Apple Trees in Blackburn, an organisation the Community Trust works with closely, to deliver targeted multi-sports activities for children with disabilities.

LAW FIRM RAISES £40,000 Hundreds of primary school children across Lancashire have received help to create awareness around mental health, as part of leading law firm Napthen’s commitment to good causes across the North West. The Napthens Foundation was created in 2021 to provides relief to those in need through education, youth, age, ill-health, disability, financial hardship or other disadvantages. In total £40,000 has been raised and donated to good causes, including help for primary schools, nurseries and families to create a positive mental wellbeing culture, the Stroke Association and Blackburn Rovers Community Trust. The money has been raised from a series of challenges and events across Napthen’s six offices in Merseyside, Cumbria and Lancashire. They included partner Oli McCann swimming Lake Windermere, a group climbing the Three Peaks in Yorkshire, a trainee walk that raised more than £5,000, bake sales, a firm-wide raffle, monthly ‘dress down days’ and staff also made regular monthly contributions from their salary. The Napthens Foundation provided more than £11,000 to myHappymind in 2022 and 2023, to deliver mental wellbeing support to almost 1,500 children across primary schools in Blackpool, Blackburn, Preston and Chorley. Laura Earnshaw from myHappymind said: “The donation received from the Napthens Foundation has been essential in allowing us access into local primary schools to educate the pupils on the importance of their mental health and wellbeing. Nicola Mason, head of people and operations at Napthens, and a Napthens Foundation committee member, said: “In the two years since the inception of the Foundation, we’ve had incredible support from colleagues and clients, which has enabled us to support a variety of good causes across the region. “As a firm we take great pride in supporting children and adults across the region, seeing first-hand the difference our fundraising makes.

The Stroke Association will use the money to further research and support those who have suffered a stroke. Gary Robinson, CEO at Blackburn Rovers Community Trust, which provides short breaks for children up to the age of 18 with disabilities, said: “Oli’s fundraising will help us with the delivery of targeted multi-sports for disabled children. BRCT’s qualified coaching staff deliver engaging sessions focused on the specific needs of the children.”

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lifestyle between the council and private enterprise. Let me know how you think this could work – it is now a time for deeds not rhetoric.

n my view we also need to harness the power of ‘brand Ribble Valley’ and the strengths within it. We are covering in this issue some of the awardwinning chefs and restaurants in our midst – how can we communicate this to a wider audience? Many of the restaurants are regular advertisers in both our magazines and we also devote space to their success. Could we resurrect the food trail, or create more food events rather than the one-hit-wonder that is the Clitheroe Food Festival?

Live Magazines’ Tedd Walmsley brings us up to date on Waddow Hall and urges the council to take action in order to fill the numerous empty shops in Clitheroe

an I start by wishing everyone a very happy new year in the words of a song – ‘let’s hope it’s a good one without any tears.’ Thanks to all of you who’ve made contact, it’s clear that many of you share my concerns across the topics covered but you can’t please all of the people all of the time. Thanks also to those who didn’t agree with me for taking the time to offer a different point of view – that’s democracy! Talking of which, have you picked up on the latest at RVBC? The seven Liberal Democrat councillors have had a bit of a disagreement and have split into two groups with the new Progressive Liberal councillors in cahoots with Labour. There are now more parties at the council than Boris Johnson allegedly had at Number 10 during Covid. Whilst I’m sure the new configuration of councillors that make up the 40 members in total create robust debates, I can’t help but think that the likelihood of anything ever being agreed continues to diminish. This of course puts further spotlight on the wasted opportunities of the last 14 years when the Conservatives had full control. I consider that 2024 is going to be a year that strong leadership and cohesive strategy will be vital to help tackle the main issues in the Ribble Valley.

was in Clitheroe recently and took the time to count 15 empty shops – I’m sure RVBC want to collect the business rates and not have shops lying fallow, so what then is the economic strategy to help entrepreneurs take risks and open new businesses? We all need to work together to understand how a collective approach could stimulate an upturn in footfall and create more events with partnerships

also want to use this column to bring people up to date on some of the macro issues from last year. Waddow Hall has now appointed eight trustees through a rigorous recruitment process. They have a huge target of £5m to secure the land and buildings and I’m told by the chair that grassroots fund raising is going well – they absolutely need corporate or benefactor funding as a matter of urgency. I’m once again at a loss as to why RVBC haven’t jumped in to help create a legacy for the wider community to enjoy. In my view this is short-sighted as the positive PR and economic impact would be strong for the area. Time of course is of the essence and the fund raising has urgent deadlines.

ne of my favourite hot topics of 2023 was the ‘Mumbai streets’ of Clitheroe and I’m told by a county councillor that we are finally to see some movement with an imminent meeting with the LCC officer in charge. Despite through tardiness, losing out on some of the match funding and of course a huge spike in the cost of building materials, we should take something positive and applaud those who have stuck to their guns and finally made this happen. I’m hoping that before our next Ribble Valley magazine in early March, I have the chance to meet with the leader of the council and the head of economic development. I’d love to give them the platform to map out the strategy for 2024 – I will report back accordingly.

s a footnote I wanted to let you know about a new magazine we are launching for Spring 2024 – Live the Dales. I’m working with an old colleague from my newspaper days on the project and this is our first launch in many years. Wish us luck and if you want to be involved, get in touch. It’s exciting and a little daunting but we all must keep moving forwards. Stay positive and be kind to each other. n

The views above are my own and I’d be delighted to get some replies to my questions and will report back on any progress and positive outcomes. tedd.walmsley@live-magazines.co.uk @TeddWalmsley

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Speak to us about your savings... Whatever you’re saving for, we have a range of accounts to help you reach your goals. Our Clitheroe branch is situated on Castle Street where our friendly team are happy to answer any questions you have about saving with the Marsden. Want to see our rates? Open the camera on your smartphone and point it at the QR code to see our latest rates or visit www.themarsden.co.uk. If you’d like to speak to our Clitheroe branch directly, call the number below.

Call our Clitheroe branch on 01200 427622*

Marsden Building Society is a member of the Building Societies Association. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority under registration number 206050. Principal Office, 6-20 Russell Street, Nelson, Lancashire BB9 7NJ. *Calls will be recorded and may be monitored. Lines open Monday-Friday 9am to 4.30pm. FP194466

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GETTING MARRIED ABROAD? After an exciting engagement, couples are keen to make arrangements for the wedding, but if you are marrying abroad there are legal requirements to consider, advises Rubina Vohra of Forbes Solicitors

ue to the current cost of living, many couples are looking to get married abroad, often seduced by white beaches, good weather and the ability to have a smaller guest list and a lower cost. Often, getting married abroad can combine a smaller, cheaper wedding with the honeymoon. People also consider getting married abroad if they have a heritage that they want to embrace, either because a fiancé(e) lives abroad or because they choose to go back to their roots to enjoy a more cultural wedding. For those that are getting married abroad, it is important to make sure that the wedding does, in fact, lead to a valid and recognised marriage in the UK.

What is a valid marriage?

In the UK, the marriage must be conducted by or in the presence of a person authorised to register marriages in the district. The marriage must be entered in the marriage register and signed by each spouse, two witnesses and the

registrar. Notice needs to be given before the ceremony. If a ‘wedding’ is organised in the UK, it’s important to make sure that these conditions have been met. Without that it will be a ceremony, but there will be no valid marriage. It is particularly important for those taking part in a religious ceremony to take this into account as, whilst a religious marriage ceremony can be deemed to be valid, in fact it is a recognition of a union under religious practises but not necessarily under UK law itself.

Foreign marriages

In order for a foreign marriage to be recognised as a legal marriage in the UK, the following conditions need to be met: • It must be contracted in accordance with the law of the country in which the marriage takes place. • Each intended spouse must have the capacity to marry at the time of the marriage. This relates to age, consent and also mental capacity.

When returning back to the UK, there is no expectation for the marriage to be registered in any way. As long as these conditions have been met, it will be a recognised and valid marriage.

Pitfalls and tips

Before you make arrangements for the wedding, make sure you check with the foreign local authority what is needed for a recognised marriage in that area. Crosscheck against the checklist above so that a mistake is not made. Do not assume that if a hotel or venue caters for a wedding abroad that they will comply in arranging a recognised marriage. Ask the questions and, again, check with the local authority to make sure that you are in fact getting married and not simply having a wedding celebration.

• The parties must be free to marry as per English law, ie they must either be single, widowed or divorced.

Finally, if you are getting married and it involves a religious ceremony, again make sure that the ceremony complies with the local laws to lead to a recognised marriage. If not, it may be that a separate civil ceremony is required, alongside the religious ceremony. n

• A valid marriage certificate should be provided as evidence of the marriage. If the marriage certificate is in a different language, it must be accompanied with a certified translation.

To speak to a Family Solicitor, contact Rubina Vohra, Family Partner, on 01254 580 000 or email: rubina.vohra@forbessolicitors.co.uk

WHATEVER THE MOMENT, WE’RE IN IT

forbessolicitors.co.uk

01254 580 000

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

YOU AR E MY EVERY THING “ Love deserves to be celebrated in the most extraordinary way, and we are here to make your dreams come true”

Team Everything x Call 01254 965095 for more details about our Valentine’s Packages, or email hello@everything-retreat.com book online: everything-retreat.com Everything Retreat | Pendle View Lodges | Primrose Lane | Mellor | BB2 7EQ

Photography: Liam Sentrik

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A GAME CHANGER… As the year ends, it’s the perfect time to rejuvenate our bodies and initiate a new year transformational reset for enhanced wellbeing. Keli Thompson, an expert in gut health, explains how

new year reset allows you to reflect, refocus, and set positive intentions for personal health and growth. It’s an excellent opportunity to break from routine, re-evaluate goals and start afresh, fostering a renewed sense of motivation and wellbeing. Gut health is a highly beneficial approach to a ‘new year new you’, as it plays a pivotal role in our health. Your gut, also known as the gastrointestinal tract (stomach, small intestine and large intestine) contains trillions of bacteria, fungi and other micro-organisms. These incredibly diverse bacteria cells collectively form our ‘gut microbiome’. If you imagine that your microbiome resembles a garden, where we try to prevent the overgrowth of ‘weeds’ from harmful bacteria – from excessive sugar, alcohol, smoking, reduced sleep, medications and additives. Instead, we try to improve the balance by enhancing the ‘flowers’ from beneficial bacteria by incorporating whole food, fibre, probiotic and prebiotic-rich food, maintaining hydration, ensuring restful sleep and minimising stress. The balance of the ‘weeds’ (harmful bacteria) and ‘flowers’ (beneficial bacteria) significantly influences the optimal functioning of the gut microbiota, the integrity of the gut lining and various physiological processes such as digestion, management of food allergies, immune system regulation, weight management and nutrient absorption. Our gut health is the home to our overall health, so nourishing our gut microbiomes with care is essential, as they contribute to our vitality and support the body’s ability to function optimally to help resist various health challenges. I have experienced firsthand the impact of implementing gut health strategies. I had suffered from a skin condition called eczema throughout all of my childhood and adulthood. I found myself consistently relying on steroid medication and treatments during flare-ups, as science at that time wasn’t as readily available to establish the connection between skin conditions and gut health. After consistently applying gut health

principles, I no longer have a skin condition. My skin is now nearly perfect – plump and soft and I finally have a healthy, dewy glow. It’s testament to the inspiring journey of repairing my body organically through nutrition. Focusing on my gut health has proven to be the most significant gamechanger, not years of steroid medications. I have also personally assisted and made exceptional progress with numerous clients dealing with issues such as skin irritations, sugar cravings, allergies, fatigue, weight

FOCUSING ON MY GUT HEALTH HAS PROVEN TO BE THE MOST SIGNIFICANT GAME-CHANGER challenges, mood fluctuations, sleep disturbances, bowel inflammation, high blood pressure, bloating, constipation and a variety of other health concerns. With my expertise as a gut health specialist, I provide comprehensive, personalised one-on-one coaching programmes designed to guide you through impactful changes in diet and lifestyle. In my programme, we build a resilient foundation to help promote improvement in your gut health and overall wellbeing. It offers an opportunity to cultivate a new mindset and promote enduring and healthy changes step by step. I guide you in understanding the significance of specific gut-healthy foods for your body functions, fostering a love for these nourishing choices that contribute to internal and external wellbeing. My mission in the programme is to ensure that these positive changes become sustainable and, most importantly, an integral part of your lifestyle – a setting for a healthier and more vibrant you in the days, months and years to come. Embracing this long-term mindset requires phased changes to seamlessly integrate into your daily routine, ensuring they become embedded for a lifetime, just as they have for me. n

@nutritionwithkeli

MEDITERRANEAN TOASTIES Ingredients

5 Sourdough bread slices Pesto (preferably homemade or raw) 2 Large plum tomatoes, sliced 1 Large mozzarella, sliced Extra virgin olive oil 6 Basil leaves, chopped Natural salt

Directions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 200˚C. Proceed to slice your sourdough bread and arrange the slices on a baking tray. 2. Apply an even layer of pesto onto the sourdough slices. Follow by evenly arranging slices of tomato and mozzarella on each piece of bread. 3. Transfer the baking tray to the oven and bake for approximately 10-15 minutes, or until the mozzarella develops a slight golden brown hue. 4. After cooking sprinkle with basil leaves and salt on top. Finish by drizzling a bit of olive oil. Ready to savour!

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WEDDINGS SET IN A BEAUTIFUL LANDSCAPE Tom Pridmore explains why the Ribble Valley has become such a popular wedding destination

n recent years, the Ribble Valley has become one of the most desirable places in the north of England to get married, so much so it was featured in a real-life documentary TV series called Wedding Valley. The area is a true wedding heaven, with a variety of amazing venues, all set in beautiful landscapes, with a unique range of supporting suppliers and local accommodation. Identifying the tourism potential of weddings seven years ago, Ribble Valley Borough Council invited representatives from all the licensed wedding venues to a meeting to discuss how wedding tourism might be developed. At that meeting, Ribble Valley Wedding Heaven, was born. It was a new, innovate partnership and a new brand, based on the perfect place to get married. Since that inaugural meeting, venues have worked collaboratively to coordinate marketing to promote the Ribble Valley as the perfect wedding destination. Tourism Officer Tom Pridmore believes the partnership is the only one of its kind in the country, where venues work together in this way.

Tom explains: “The way the group has worked together is admirable but from what I have experienced, is typical of the way Ribble Valley businesses co-operate in the promotion of tourism. We are lucky to have so many unique venues and so many creative and flexible businesses willing to make the dreams come true for couples getting married.”

RESEARCH SUGGESTS THAT THIS BUOYANT MARKET WILL CONTINUE, WITH MORE COUPLES SEEKING THE RURAL AND UNIQUE WEDDING EXPERIENCES FOR WHICH RIBBLE VALLEY HAS BECOME RENOWNED The success of the group may be attributed to a number of factors. Firstly, the strong brand identity of Ribble Valley, a place with great landscapes and a reputation for quality. Secondly, we have a local authority committed to partnership working. Also, the group has recognised that, by working together, any

wedding in Ribble Valley may potentially benefit any partner, whether that be through dining experiences or overspill accommodation. In addition to its promotional activities, including website, brochures, media visits and social media, the group meets regularly with Lancashire County Council’s registration officers, to encourage continual improvement into the way in which weddings are administered, along with changes to the way outdoor weddings are developed. The group manages the Ribble Valley Wedding Heaven website and produce free wedding guides, offering a one-stop-shop for Ribble Valley venues. Tom adds: “Weddings are a powerful tool in stimulating tourism, as they not only provide a significant number of first-time visitors to stay in the area, but evidence also suggests that having discovered the Ribble Valley, many wedding guests are returning for independent holidays.” There are between 2,000 and 3,000 weddings in the Ribble Valley each year with each and every one being unique thanks to the hard work of Ribble Valley businesses. And, all the research suggests that this buoyant market will continue, with more couples seeking the rural and unique wedding experiences for which Ribble Valley has become renowned. n

The One THIS IS

A TRULY MEMORABLE VENUE

Multi-award-winning, Crow Wood Hotel has become the wedding venue of choice for style-conscious couples. With a breathtaking panorama, it has all the grandeur of a bygone era in an ultra-modern setting

Arrange your visit to our National Wedding Industry Award-Winning Venue

crowwoodhotel.com

ROSE ORGANZA BRIDAL DRESS IVORY £525 monsoon.co.uk

DIAMOND TENNIS BRACELET 18CT WHITE GOLD £6625 3.19cts, D colour, VS1 clarity huppach.co.uk

AMELIA SCOTT FRIDA CLEAR, PINK, LILAC ENAMEL ROSE GOLD DROP EARRINGS £99 amelia-scott.com

LOOKING GOOD STERLING SILVER AND ENAMEL TRACTOR CUFFLINKS £168 Huppach 15 Rainhall Road Barnoldswick BB18 5AF huppach.co.uk

These wedding day accessories will ensure you’re looking tip top for a very special occasion

LOLA PINK AND EMERALD GOLD NECKLACE £99 amelia-scott.com

NEEM LONDON RECYCLED ITALIAN SKY TWILL PRINT COMFORT SHIRT £139 neemlondon.com

REBECCA RHOADES RASPBERRY FLAMINGO NYREE MIDI DRESS £255 rebeccarhoades.com

DUNE LONDON BONANZA DIAMANTE PLAIT HANDLE BAG £95 dunelondon.com

LANX MENS NAVY MAUDSLEY OXFORD SHOE £180 LANX Unit 29 Mitton Road Business Park Whalley BB7 9YE lanxshoes.com

BARBOUR ARGYLL LEATHER BELT £25 barbour.com While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy,all prices and stockists are subject to change.

DUNE LONDON MARITZ £125 dunelondon.com

T U

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E L E B R AT E W I T

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Whether it’s our beautiful bandstand or stunning orangery, our experienced team are always on-hand to make your wedding day the most special and memorable. With views of our award-winning gardens, Longridge Fell and the Forest of Bowland, our venue offers a relaxing atmosphere and stress-free day. Contact us to arrange your personal show around, or join us at our Open Day.

01995 61456 reception@gibbon-bridge.co.uk Green Lane, Chipping nr Clitheroe, Forest of Bowland, Lancashire PR3 2TQ Photography: www.l-l-photography.co.uk

EDDING

SAT 6TH JAN 11AM - 2PM

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Su DD nd I a N 11 y 17 G 20 W 11 th a ED .30a th M OP .3 nd D 0 a 2 I m - a r c EN m 1s N 4p h -3 tJ G m 2 0 DA 24 Y pm an FA u I bo ar R th y 2 S da 02 ys 4

EXCLUSIVE VENUE HIRE LANCASHIRE COUNTRYSIDE WEDDING VENUE

A beautifully converted 16th century stone barn • Exclusive venue hire • Separate licensed ceremony room • Maximum guest number for ceremony and wedding breakfast: 125 • Maximum guest number for evening reception: 200 • Fourteen en-suite bedrooms including complimentary Honeymoon Suite • In-house chefs preparing exceptional food using locally sourced ingredients QUAKER BROOK LANE | HOGHTON | PRESTON | PR5 0RA | 01254 851996 BEESTONMANOR.COM | INFO@BEESTONMANOR.COM | BEESTONMANOR Photo Credit : Kerry Woods Photography and Suzanne Clark Photography and Film

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we select every aspect of the suit to complement your physique, accentuate your best features and conceal any flaws. Let your creativity flow and express your individual style as you select every detail your way. From linings and colours of buttonholes to monograms, pockets and lapels exactly as you like them, the result is a suit that is uniquely yours and completely satisfying. At your first consultation, take the time

TAILORED TO PERFECTION A bespoke suit is the ultimate indulgence for men and your wedding is the perfect time for this. Make the most of this opportunity to look your very best and invest in something special for yourself at Charles Campbell Bespoke Tailoring in Ribchester

bespoke suit tailored perfectly to you gives you an unparalleled confidence and ensures you stand out from the crowd in effortless style. From initial discussions over a drink to the finished result that is the most flattering and comfortable suit you have ever owned, this is the part of the wedding journey that is all about you. We guide you through the process of designing your perfect wedding suit, so that it matches your personal style and the theme of your day. We take into account all the

to choose exactly what you want. You could make an event of it by bringing along key members of the wedding party such as your best man to help advise, or your best man might want a two piece suit to complement your three piece.

factors of your wedding, whether it is formal or informal, indoors or out, contemporary or vintage, and the climate of the destination, as well as ensuring it will complement your bride’s outfit. From the cut that will most flatter your physique and the colours that complement your skin tone, to the cloths that will look fantastic and also keep you cool and comfortable, we have the answers. With endless beautiful cloths from which to choose, including worsted wools, tweeds, cottons and cashmeres all from the finest textile mills in Yorkshire, Scotland and Italy, we will find the exact weight, shade and finish you are looking for in your ideal suit. Our measuring process takes into account every aspect of your figuration to achieve the perfect fit. In our design and cutting process For suits ordered before 29th February 2024 we will make a bespoke wedding shirt for you and your best man absolutely free of charge – simply Quote RV FREE SHIRT when you appoint

Make a statement on your wedding day with the finest bespoke suit you will want to wear again and again for those other special events in life such as christenings, friends’ weddings or days at the races. n With two piece suits starting at £950, we welcome enquiries and would be delighted to arrange an appointment for an initial consultation

Charles Campbell Bespoke Tailoring Suite 9, Manor Court Salesbury Hall, Salesbury Hall Road Ribchester PR3 3XR 01254 367968 07714 758296 info@charlescampbellbespoke.co.uk www.charlescampbellbespoke.co.uk

ALBUS AND FLORA BOTANICAL LIP CARE £16 Show his or her lips some love with award-winning, high performance SPF30 lip care that blends pure botanicals with modern UVA/ UVB filters, to hydrate and protect against sun damage, fine lines and loss of lip fullness. Five shades available in clinic. discoverlaser.co.uk

ELEMIS PRO COLLAGEN ROSE FACIAL OIL £67 Soothing, English rose-infused facial oil that smooths the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. uk.elemis.com

A TOUCH OF ROMANCE...

ELEMIS PRO COLLAGEN ROSE CREAM 50ml £94 The award-winning, anti-ageing moisturiser, in a soothing rose aromatic. Firms, soothes and hydrates. uk.elemis.com

These beautiful fragrances and skin-care treatments are luxurious and calming – perfect to enjoy together

TEMPLE SPA DO NOT DISTURB - PEACE AND RELAXATION COLLECTION £50 Each product is a combination of calming aromas, cashmere textures and botanicals borrowed from the Mediterranean garden that together help you relax, restore and repose. thewoodlandspa.com

TOM FORD BLACK ORCHID EAU DE PARFUM £106 tomford.co.uk

JEAN CHARLES BROSSEAU EAU DE TOILETTE OMBRE BLEUE 100ml £116 A perfume reminiscent of holidays abroad, beaches and distant journeys. Sun-filled memories mingle with the purity of island scents. themeltco.com

PRIVATE SPA BATH EXPERIENCE FROM £99 PP You and your loved one can enjoy a welcome health shot, a soothing two-hour spa thermal journey, 45-minute immersive private bathing experience, followed by delicious dining in the Coniston’s beautiful Blossom Kitchen. theconistonhotel.com

NEOM HAPPINESS THREE-WICK CANDLE £50 The Happiness fragrance has been intricately blended to include seven essential oils including white neroli, woody and powdery mimosa and zingy lemon. neomorganics.com While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy,all prices and stockists are subject to change.

JOIN US FOR OUR

Wedding Venue Showcase 13 - 14 JANUARY 12 - 4 PM

Picture Perfect Moments With acres of grounds for picture perfect moments, a majestical lake and even a historic church; weddings at The Coniston Hotel Country Estate & Spa are something truly special. With enchanting event spaces; a 17th century barn for small and intimate, light, modern and contemporary space for larger gatherings, or take your vows in one of the most romantic settings imaginable, lakeside.

The Coniston Hotel Country Estate & Spa | Coniston Cold, Skipton, North Yorkshire BD23 4EA Tel: (+44) 1756 748080 | Email: weddings@theconistonhotel.com | Web: theconistonhotel.com

FIND US ON… Live Ribble Valley @Live_RV /liveribblevalley Live Preston & Fylde @Live_PF /liveprestonfylde issuu.com/live_magazines

If you or someone you know has cancer, you may find it helpful to talk to someone If youunderstands or someonewhat you know cancer, who you’rehas going through. you maywho findcan it helpful to personal talk to someone A team provide support who understands what you’re and expert information. That’sgoing what through. we do. A team who can provide personal support So you have any questions about andif expert information. That’s whatyour we do. treatment, concerns about your finances So if you have any questions about your or just want to talk, you don’t need to go treatment, concerns about your nances through it alone. We’re here for fiyou. or just want to talk, you don’t need to go through alone. We’re here forLine you.free on Call theitMacmillan Support

www.live-magazines.co.uk

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

Printed using sustainable material. Please recycle. Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). MAC13954_A4_0613. Printed using sustainable material. Please recycle. Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). MAC13954_A4_0613.

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in all settings, Street Food Pizza’s attentive, professional team will endeavour to make hosting your event as memorable and as stress free as possible. Their experienced caterers will negotiate with you from the very first moment to ensure that every guest’s individual taste is catered for: “We’ll

BRING A SLICE OF ITALY TO YOUR CELEBRATION! proved for 48 hours – but their hand-made dough is only one of the top-quality Italian ingredients that make these pizzas so special. All of them are topped with San Marzano tomatoes, grown in Naples and favoured by Italian chefs. Their mozzarella is Fior di Latte, known in Italy as the ‘flower of milk’

Catherine Robinson talks to a local caterer who’s bringing an authentic taste of Italy to Ribble Valley parties

treet Food Pizza’s state-of-the-art, purpose-built van has been bringing the gourmet flavours of Italy to weddings, graduations, retirement farewells, leaving-dos and birthday parties throughout the year. Invite Street Food Pizza to your party though, and you’ll get more than the delicious, hot artisan pizzas they’re famous for – you’ll get a touch of theatre too. In a process that always draws a crowd, their chef expertly stretches their freshly made pizza dough then cooks it to perfection in the flames of a wood fired oven. The Street Food Pizza team are proud of their dough, which is made daily from the highest quality imported Italian flour and

WE SET UP AND WE CLEAR AWAY. YOU WON’T EVEN KNOW WE’VE BEEN – EXCEPT FOR THE MEMORY OF THE MOST PERFECT PIZZA YOU’VE EVER TASTED! and renowned for its delicate taste. The spicy sausage is Nduja, a speciality of Calabria known for its smooth texture and exquisite flavour. Not only can you be sure that these gourmet pizzas will be enjoyed by guests of all ages

make you exactly what you want,” explains the chef. “Vegan, vegetarian, gluten free – and they’re all delicious. Numbers aren’t a problem either. If you’re throwing a big party, we’ll just bring two vans.” Once the perfect crust has been achieved, the pizzas are sliced, labelled and served buffet-style, indoors or outdoors, allowing each guest to sample more than one flavour: “We set up, and we clear away,” explains the chef. “Which means you can get on with enjoying your party. You won’t even know we’ve been – except for a memory of the most perfect pizza you’ve ever tasted!” n Street Food Pizza’s prices start at £12 per head, call or message the team for more details Street Food Pizza 01254 949642 07984 797726 streetfoodpizza.co.uk

weddings

Photography: Kyle Mac

Photography: Rachel Joyce

WHERE EVERY SPACE TELLS A STORY Nestled in the picturesque Ribble Valley, sits Bashall Barn, a distinct wedding venue for couples seeking a magical setting with a charming backdrop

ashall Barn is not just your typical wedding venue. It’s a place which has been lovingly and thoughtfully designed. From saying ‘I do’ to celebrating with loved ones to dancing the night away, couples and their guests will transition through the venue, uninterrupted, revealing new dedicated spaces. The blank canvas of the ceremony room and dining room can be tailored to suit couples’ preferences whether that be a simple, minimalist approach or a grand, lavish affair. The addition of a free wedding store, more like an Aladdin’s cave, means there is an array of wedding items on-hand and completely free to use.

Photography: Love and Luna

the team works with couples throughout their wedding journey. Going beyond words, they are committed to making the entire wedding an unforgettable day.

In conclusion, Bashall stands not only as a venue but as a partner in the journey of creating unforgettable memories. With its commitment to continuous improvement, personalised support and unique design, Bashall seeks to stand out as a choice for couples wanting a wedding experience that transcends the ordinary. n

Photography: Kiss the Bride

Venue capacity: Ceremony and reception 50-130 seated guests Evening reception guests 250

Photography: Kerry Woods

Accommodation has been a new development for Bashall over the last few years and there is now an offering of diverse options, from wedding suites to family rooms and even a two-bedroomed apartment. Having on-site accommodation means that loved ones can relax and fully immerse themselves in the celebration without worrying about finding accommodations elsewhere. Bashall understands the blend of excitement and stress during wedding planning and

couples face, Bashall has introduced a limited time offer of half-price venue hire for available dates throughout 2024. This not only demonstrates their commitment to providing exceptional service, but also acknowledges the economic constraints many couples navigate when planning their dream day.

Bashall has introduced a limited time offer of half-price venue hire for available dates throughout 2024!

GOING BEYOND WORDS, THEY ARE COMMITTED TO MAKING THE ENTIRE WEDDING AN UNFORGETTABLE DAY As Bashall enters the exciting year of 2024, the venue remains dedicated to offering the best service possible. In a move that reflects their understanding of the financial challenges

Bashall Barn Bashall Eaves, Clitheroe BB7 3LQ 01200 428964 weddings@bashallbarn.co.uk bashallbarn.co.uk

Photo Credit: Hayley Baxter Photography

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Photo Credit: Hayley Baxter Photography

EXCLUSIVE WEDDING VENUE

EXCLUSIVE WEDDING VENUE | STUNNING VIEWS | GUEST ACCOMMODATION

WWW.BASHALLBARN.CO.UK Bashall Town, Clitheroe, Lancashire, BB7 3LQ | Tel. 01200 428964 | Email. weddings@bashallbarn.co.uk

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WEDDING CAKES WITH A WOW FACTOR! Planning a wedding and want a cake that will really impress? Talk to Lisa Marie, who creates exquisite cakes that are beautifully decorated and taste delicious! Photography: Roger Moore

xclusive wedding cake designer Lisa Marie is back! After a short break following the birth of her two daughters, Lisa Marie, who has forged a reputation for extravagant cakes, is once again working with some of the region’s most sought-after venues and of course, couples who want a real ‘wow-factor’ wedding cake. Now working from a dedicated studio, Lisa Marie started her cake-making from a small shop in Longridge. With a degree in the arts and having been a baking star from a young age, Lisa Marie combined her skills and began to make celebrations cakes: “My nana and mother taught me traditional baking skills,” she recalls. “After having a family, I realised I wanted to concentrate solely on wedding cakes as I absolutely adore the wedding industry!” Lisa Marie’s success lies not only in her minute attention to detail in the decoration – it is her skill at developing cake flavours to create something totally delicious!

TASTE IS EVERYTHING! MY BUTTERSCOTCH AND COOKIE CRUMBLE CAKE FILLED WITH A BISCOFF CENTRE IS REALLY POPULAR AT THE MOMENT “Taste is everything!” she says. “I source most of my ingredients fresh from local farms and suppliers,” says Lisa Marie, who says the current on-trend flavour is her totally indulgent butterscotch and cookie crumble cake filled with a Biscoff centre. “I will chat to couples and can create anything to reflect their style. I am never

surprised by any suggestions they may have.” While current cake decoration trends remain largely rustic, Lisa has noticed a return to ‘retro’ formal-style decoration using royal icing and detailed piping: “I love this style as I can really show off my skills!”

When couples make an appointment to see Lisa Marie in her studio, they are able to see her cake creations as well as taste them: “The studio is lovely, it’s white with a wedding environment. Once we have had a chat and I’ve got to know them a little better, I will create a watercolour sketch of the cake and we take it from there.” With limited availability, Lisa Marie is beginning to open up her diary in advance to 2025, but she still has some availability prior to that. So, if you are getting married and want the very best wedding cake to wow your guests, get in touch now! n

Lisa Marie Wedding Cakes 15 The Dellway, Hutton PR4 5TA 07773 808637 lisamarieweddingcakes.co.uk

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MAGICAL MINI MOONS IN THE BEAUTIFUL LAKE DISTRICT One of our favourite things that our guests say, is that when they think of Gilpin, they think of love and laughter – ours, and theirs, which is such a lovely compliment. At the heart of Gilpin is a passionate family and team, dedicated to creating lasting memories for our guests, who return time and again for romance, celebrations and escapes. For us, hospitality starts with a very warm welcome and ends with a friendly goodbye, with extraordinary service, exquisite décor, beautiful spa experiences, and stunning culinary experiences in our restaurants – the Michelin starred SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel, and the Michelin listed pan Asian Gilpin Spice. We hope to welcome you to Gilpin soon.

Spa Space INDULGENT MINI MOON PACKAGES FOR ALL ROOM TYPES

Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, Crook Road, Near Windermere, The English Lake District hotel@thegilpin.co.uk 015394 88818 www.thegilpin.co.uk

• 44 Spacious suited & club bedrooms, 28 bedrooms with private balconies / patios • 9 acres of stunning gardens & views

• Wedding Venue - Licensed gazebo & woodland walk

• Health Club with swimming pool, sauna, steam room

• A dedicated personal wedding co-ordinator

Image courtesy of Kirsten Platt

FOXFIELDS COUNTRY HOTEL

• 44 Spacious suited & club bedrooms, 28 bedrooms with private balconies / patios

A romantic wedding venue nestled within 9 acres • 9 acres of stunning gardens & views

• Wedding Venue

• Health Club with swimming pool, sauna, steam room

• A dedic

of beautifully landscaped garden in the heart of the Ribble Valley.

LICENSED TO HOST BOTH INDOOR AND OUTDOOR WEDDINGS. NEWLY REFURBISHED LUXURY ACCOMMODATION. NOW PRIVATELY OWNED.

LONG ESTABLISHED AND INDEPENDENTLY OWNED.

Our range of reception rooms can cater for an intimate wedding of 15 guests, to the Pendle Suite which can accommodate up to 200 wedding day guests.

Foxfields is an all-year-round wedding venue, magical during the winter months and in summer our licenced gazebo with it’s stunning views forms the perfect backdrop to your celebrations.

We have a wide range of comfortable bedrooms and spacious suites for guests and dedicated suites for the bride, groom and bridesmaids.

T 01254 822556 www.foxfieldshotel.com enquiries@foxfieldshotel.co.uk Foxfields Country Hotel, Whalley Road, Billington, Blackburn, Lancashire, BB7 9HY

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What is a valid marriage?

Foreign marriages

When returning back to the UK, there is no expectation for the marriage to be registered in any way. As long as these conditions have been met, it will be a recognised and valid marriage.

Pitfalls and tips

• The parties must be free to marry as per English law, ie they must either be single, widowed or divorced.

• A valid marriage certificate should be provided as evidence of the marriage. If the marriage certificate is in a different language, it must be accompanied with a certified translation.

To speak to a Family Solicitor, contact Rubina Vohra, Family Partner, on 01254 580 000 or email: rubina.vohra@forbessolicitors.co.uk

WHATEVER THE MOMENT, WE’RE IN IT

forbessolicitors.co.uk

01254 580 000

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

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Samlesbury Hall is a truly impressive location for your wedding. The fabulous 15th century Whittaker Room will be where you take your vows amidst friends and loved ones, while the 700-year-old Great Hall will be at the heart of your celebrations! With a glass of chilled Prosecco for guests on arrival, a delicious wedding breakfast, home-cooked by the in-house team of chefs, there will be wine paired with your meal and bubbly to toast the happy couple. There’s even hand crafted pizza in the evening to fuel your celebrations!

WEDDINGS MADE IN HEAVEN… If a strict table plan isn’t your thing and you want a perfectly chilled wedding, why not consider a superb soiree for guests. Instead of a more formal sit-down menu, guests can enjoy made-to-order wood-fired pizza in the courtyard followed by locally made ice-cream with toppings and flakes! As the party progresses into the night-time, there’s also mezze platters and chocolate brownies for an evening of celebration and fun! This is a location that is totally unique!

Photography: Rachel Joyce

Photography: Maddie Farris

Photography: Tim Emmerton

Whether you’re looking for a wedding on a grand scale or a more intimate affair, Samlesbury Hall is just perfect!

Photography: Joe Mather

Photography: Clare Robinson

WEDDINGS

THE HAMLET WITH ITS LUXURY GLAMPING PODS AND SHEPHERD’S HUTS ARE JUST PERFECT FOR YOUR WEDDING GUESTS ACCOMMODATION

Within the grounds of Samlesbury Hall is The Hamlet with its luxury Shepherd’s Huts, they are perfect for your wedding guests.

weddings

Photography: Looksharpe Photography

BIJOU WEDDINGS

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f you are looking for something more bijou for a wedding venue the space within the Heritage Gardens at Samlesbury Hall is perfect! Say ‘I do’ in the garden, surrounded by beautiful blooms and greenery and enjoy your own carefully curated menu in the wonderfully decorated space within the grounds. With its lovely country atmosphere, this is the perfect place – indoors or out. Talk to the Samlesbury Hall wedding team to create your bespoke menu – enjoy chef’s canapés in the gardens with a glass of fizz and a three-course meal indoors surrounded by friends and family.

WEDDING EVENTS AT SAMLESBURY HALL

With late availability for Friday and Saturdays, plus selected dates throughout 2024, now is the time to attend one of the hall’s Wedding Fairs or Open Evenings to see just what this venue has to offer.

CONTACT

Speak with Samlesbury Hall’s award-winning team today to find out more about a grand wedding in the hall or a more intimate setting in the stunning Heritage space within the grounds. You can also discuss late availability and accommodation too! n

WEDDING FAIRS

Photography: Gemma McAuley

Sunday 14th January Sunday 25th February 12 noon – 3pm

OPEN EVENINGS: Thursday 21st March Thursday 6th June Thursday 5th September 5pm – 7pm Meet the suppliers and the specialist Samlesbury Hall wedding team! Menu tastings are available at the open evenings, please prebook

Photography: Rachel Joyce

Can’t attend an open evening? Speak to the team at Samlesbury to arrange your own personal viewing at a time to suit you.

Samlesbury Hall & Heritage Café Preston New Road, Samlesbury, Preston PR5 0UP 01254 812010 weddings@samlesburyhall.co.uk samlesburyhalll.co.uk

Scan to view the Collection

A collection of six Dream Venues across the Ribble Valley, Lune Valley & Yorkshire Dales. W W W. D R E A M V E N U E S . C O . U K

Say I do...

TO YO U R DREAM VENUE From a classic country inn and a simply astounding contemporary mill conversion to gorgeous stately homes and romantic manor houses, we have the perfect wedding venue to make your dream wedding day come to life. Our newest addition to the Dream Venues Collection, Wennington Hall in Lancaster, will be opening its doors in spring 2024.

You’re Invited...

DREAM WEDDING SHOWCASES Throughout January 2024 Please see the website for full details and to pre-register.

D R E A M V E N U E S. C O. U K PHOTOGRAPHERS: Emily Robinson, Laura Wade, Emilie May, Bowness Film & Nick English

EDUCATIONN E W S

THE FUTURE LOOKS BRIGHT

LANCASHIRE BUSINESS DAY

Prior to the dinner, alumni further supported current Year 13s during our INSPIRED Sixth Form Mock Interview Day to help students prepare for upcoming apprenticeship and university interviews. Both events really highlighted just why the school won Independent School of the Year 2023 for its Careers Programme.

Neil Burrows, Burnley College Director of Skills, Innovation and Employer Engagement, said: “Our strong connections with Lancashire businesses are vital in providing the exceptional education and training we deliver to learners of all ages.

Westholme School hosted their Beyond Westholme event at Ewood Park. Beyond Westholme welcomed former pupils from a wide range of professions and higher educational backgrounds to share their wisdom and support with current students. The event was accompanied by dinner and drinks, as well as a highly inspirational speech by professional explorer Louis Alexander.

ASTRO CHALLENGE

A huge well done to seven Oakhill College Year 10 and 11 pupils, who took part in the British Physics Olympiad Junior Astro Challenge recently. They achieved three Bronze Awards and four Silver Awards between them which is a phenomenal accomplishment. The science department are very proud of them all.

Burnley College, which was named the country’s Number One College in the government’s latest national achievement rate table for learners aged 15 to 18, was proud to be a patron of Lancashire Business Day for the second year running. The day celebrated the success stories of Lancashire’s pioneering businesses and took place at Accrington Stanley Football Club.

“Working with industry leaders allows us to explore new technologies and share experiences.”

SHARKS’ PROGRAMME

Continuing to live up to their reputation for developing exceptional sporting talent, eight young standout rugby players at Stonyhurst College have been included in the Sale Sharks’ U15 North Lancs Developing Player Programme. The Grammar (Year 10) pupils will now be part of a squad that follows a weekly curriculum designed by the Sale Sharks Academy, with the ultimate aim of progressing into the Academy.

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EDUCATIONN E W S

NO BRAINER TOUR

Westholme School was delighted to welcome author Jeff Kinney – famously known for his Diary of a Wimpy Kid series – to the Croston Theatre for an evening of challenges and interactive games, which encouraged participants to support their local libraries whilst ‘exploring the outer limits of the brains’! Attendees also went away with signed copies of his new book ‘No Brainer’ – which the event was based upon. It was a night filled with fun for the whole family, and the school looks forward to welcoming more exciting authors in the coming months.

CAREER PROGRESSION

Project Management is more than just tasks and timelines – it’s a strategic competency that’s essential in today’s fast-paced business environment. But where do you learn these skills? Adult Learning at Burnley College offers two Association for Project Management (APM) accredited courses. APM-accredited courses signify to employers that you or your employees possess exceptional project management capabilities. Start dates for the three-day course are Tuesday 16th January and Tuesday 7th May 2024. The second course, designed for those looking to further develop their skills starts 27th February and lasts five days. For more information and costs please contact Burnley College.

ARCHIVE WINNERS

MATHS CHALLENGE

They viewed a police file on a WW1 spy, Elizabeth I’s wax seal and also police files on the Suffragettes along with the Declaration of Independence from 1776. They also saw the letter written by Elizabeth I from the Tower of London to Mary I to plead for her safety.

The final round was a supervised exam of 20 questions that required comprehensive skill in several different mathematical areas to solve.

Nine Oakhill College pupils, who won the National Archives 20s Streets Competition enjoyed an afternoon at the National Archives recently.

Stonyhurst College achieved great success in 2023’s International Youth Maths Challenge with pupils Sophie and Philipp awarded the Bronze Prize after being placed among the top 20 per cent of all participants from over 80 countries worldwide.

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GOLDEN THREAD The enlightening journey for young children starting out at Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall Pre-Prep has been described as a ‘golden thread’ that leads them through the rich tapestry of school life at Stonyhurst and into the world beyond

n 2024, Hodder House, which is the home of Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall Pre-Prep, celebrates the 20th anniversary of its opening back in 2004. Taking children from aged three to seven, the dedicated staff at Hodder House nurture the first gentle steps of the youngest children, as they begin their Stonyhurst journey. Sarah Gibson, Head of the Pre-Prep, who has taught at Hodder House

for 16 years explains: “Hodder House is a very well established, warm and nurturing environment for children to start their journey with us – they are all known and loved by our close-knit team of teaching staff.”

THE THREE-YEAR-OLDS SOON DEVELOP CONFIDENCE AND EACH YEAR THEIR ROLE GROWS BIGGER. IT’S LOVELY TO WITNESS – THIS SELF-ASSURANCE WILL BE AN ASSET FOR LIFE Since it’s humble beginnings as a unit of just a handful of pupils in a renovated hall at St Mary’s Hall, which has offered a reputable preparatory education for over 200 years, the Pre-Prep has grown to be a very busy and popular Early Years and Key Stage 1 setting, where children can draw fully from all the

wonderful resources of the magnificent Stonyhurst campus, while also benefitting from a modern fully refurbished and richly resourced teaching and learning setting of this ISI rated Excellent HMC and IAPS school. The recent Excellent in all areas ISI report stated that ‘children in the EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage), demonstrate excellent social awareness and respect for their peers’ and ‘children in the EYFS communicate clearly and with confidence.’ “Children become so knowledgeable because they have so many facilities on-site,” adds Sarah. “This takes them on an inspirational adventure that develops personal confidence, creativity and knowledge. We recently took them to the museum in the College, the oldest English-speaking museum in the world, where our curator showed them a prayer book that belonged to Mary Queen of Scots, and we also had Stonyhurst’s copy of Shakespeare’s First Folio on display to mark its 400-year anniversary. We are proud to hold over 35,000 artefacts and 75,000 historical books in these

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extensive collections. These precious artefacts inspire even the youngest of children and bring the curriculum to life.” Having recently undergone its major refurbishment, Hodder House now has a number of large, bright open-plan classrooms and small class sizes. “In education, nothing stands still, and for our younger pupils we find that they enjoy a variety of engaging activities within a broad curriculum,” says Sarah. “They need to learn core skills that are also engaging and fun – children are far more engaged if they think it is their idea!” As one of the oldest, continually operating, Jesuit schools in the world, the youngest pupils who are beginning their Stonyhurst education, are instilled with confidence and a deep sense of purpose, as they grow to become ‘men and women for others’. The distinctive Jesuit profile at Stonyhurst encourages enthusiastic learning, curiosity, eloquence, compassion, generosity and creativity as Fr Christopher Cann, Headmaster of Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall, explains: “Even our youngest children are aware of our Jesuit values that underpin all our teaching and learning to bring out the best in our children.”

Creativity through music, drama and dance brings the children together at Hodder House, where from Years 1 and 2, specialist music and drama teachers are introduced to Pre-Prep. The on-site theatre is used regularly and even the youngest children all appeared in the recent annual nativity play. Fr Chris adds: “The three-year-olds soon develop confidence and each year their role grows bigger. It’s lovely to witness – this self-assurance will be an asset for life.” Older pupils at St Mary’s Hall also play a part in the Pre-Prep school day through the recent Playtime Pals initiative, where the older children become role models for the younger children. “They teach the younger children to play traditional games and sing together,” continues Fr Chris. “The younger children learn some basic skills from this that are fundamental to a child’s development. Personal and social development are inextricably

linked to academic development – this is very important as part of our child-centred learning.” Having children start from the age of three, not only gives them an unrivalled education, it also presents the opportunity of a seamless journey that runs through the transition points in the school. From Hodder House to St Mary’s Hall and on to Stonyhurst College, all on the same campus and with the same ethos, pupils strive to live out the school motto, Quant je puis – As much as I can, to become ‘the best that they can be.’ “We like to think of their three to 18 journey as a ‘golden thread’ running through the rich tapestry of Stonyhurst – it is a constant through the school and it is always a very moving occasion when the 18-year-old leavers, who started in Hodder House return in June to say a final goodbye and thank you.” Hodder House welcomes any children at any stage of their education where places are available and is part of the EEF scheme giving nursery school pupils aged three to five, 15 free hours.

teaching and very much sought-after wrap-around care that includes a wealth of after-school activities such as dance, musical theatre, gymnastics and football.

TO BOOK YOUR VISIT SCAN THE QR CODE

Fr Christopher concludes: “We wish the Pre-Prep a very happy 20th birthday. It has always been, and very much continues to be a very happy, dynamic part of Stonyhurst that provides a rich educational environment for treasured memories for our future ‘young men and women for others’.” n

Offering excellent value for money, pupils have an extended day with all meals and educational trips included, as well as specialist

OPEN DOORS ST MARY’S HALL PREP & PRE-PREP

Saturday 2nd March 2024 01254 826242

Hodder House Pre-Prep Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall Clitheroe BB7 9PU 01254 826242 stonyhurst.ac.uk

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education developed,” adding how the concert would, for the school’s founder, as it was for all in attendance, have simply blown her away. Guest announcers included students, former Principals Mrs Lillian Croston and Mrs Lynne Horner and Mr Brian Marsden, Chair of Governors, who brought the event to a close. The calibre of performances was simply breathtaking from start to finish, as the Head of Sixth Form Jonathan Oracz, masterminded a concert befitting their historic milestone and delivered an evening of entertainment to rival leading theatres and concert halls around the globe.

SHAPING LIVES… A Centenary Concert, recently held at Westholme, was an evening of nostalgia featuring a host of talent

Westholme was recently awarded the title of Independent School of the Year for its INSPIRED Sixth Form Careers Programme – a fitting reward to mark 100 wonderful years of Westholme.

o crown its Centenary Year, Westholme School played host to a spectacular sell-out musical concert in its prestigious Croston Theatre, with countless alumni returning to grace the stage and pay their respects to the school that gave them such an incredible start in life. The concert was the perfect way to bring an end to a year of nostalgia, fond reflection and pride, at all the school has and continues to accomplish, for its students.

Founded by Emily Singleton in 1923, Westholme has shaped the lives of so many students in the region, providing an unrivalled holistic education, which ensures every child is nurtured, given the skills and confidence to flourish in their field, and is fully prepared for a successful life beyond school. It seemed only fitting that the concert played host to Mrs Anne Longson, the great niece of Emily Singleton, who had nothing but high praise and gratitude for the school, eloquently sharing with a captive audience: “Emily would be absolutely awestruck by how the school has

WESTHOLME HAS SHAPED THE LIVES OF SO MANY STUDENTS IN THE REGION, PROVIDING AN UNRIVALLED HOLISTIC EDUCATION, WHICH ENSURES EVERY CHILD IS NURTURED AND GIVEN THE SKILLS AND CONFIDENCE TO FLOURISH IN THEIR FIELD Current and former Directors of Music, Ben Holt and Eric Millest, joined by Mrs Clare Lewis as a trio of musical maestros with over a century of combined experience in delivering outstanding music teaching to generations of students, and concerts all over Europe, conducted a huge centenary choir and orchestra, made up of staff, parents and students past and present. There were solo performances by Old Westholmians, who have since led leading careers on the West End stage, as global recording acts or as musical artists in their own right. From a medley of Disney to a montage of musical theatre songs, including highlights from ‘Miss Saigon’, ‘Phantom of the Opera’ and ‘West Side Story’, there was something for everyone, including a taster of their March 2024 production of Les Misérables. With a special song written by Mr Millest to mark their centenary year, followed by the audience singing with gusto to Abba, the entire evening was certainly a moment to ‘Thank Westholme for the Music’ and 100 years of academic rigour and success. n

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

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YOUR VEHICLE – YOUR CHOICE

In the middle of winter’s challenging driving conditions, accidents can happen. For assured, stress-free recovery and repair, look no further than James Alpe

avigating winter conditions adds an extra layer of challenges to driving, creating potentially hazardous situations on the road. With the addition to seasonal difficulties, the motor claims industry is grappling with a series of enduring obstacles. A nationwide shortage of repair capacity and disruptions in global parts supply chains have compounded these challenges. As of 2022, a substantial 63 per cent of UK bodyshops reported being at full capacity, leaving insurers with prolonged wait times to deploy customers’ vehicles or, in some cases, necessitating long-distance deployments. This capacity crunch has only intensified in 2023, showing a continuous upward trend. As we approach winter, these escalating figures pose a significant cause for concern. Unfortunately, the repercussions extend to the customers making claims, as they find themselves without their vehicles for extended periods following an incident. The current landscape underscores the urgency for innovative solutions to enhance the

efficiency of the claims process, ensuring more satisfactory outcomes for all parties involved.

A STRESS-FREE SOLUTION FOR VEHICLE ACCIDENTS

In the midst of winter’s challenging driving conditions, accidents can happen, leaving us in need of reliable support. When faced with the aftermath of a collision, no matter how big or small, and whether the accident was your fault or not look no further than James Alpe – your go-to solution for seamless assistance.

so you can be confident the repair will meet safety standards laid down by the BSI. Over the past several years, our commitment to continuous improvement and innovation in our operations has been consistently recognised and celebrated. This recognition has been exemplified through a series of prestigious industry awards including Stellantis and Land Rover Jaguar. We prioritise your needs by NOT relying on the sheer volume of work sent by insurance companies. Although we collaborate with all insurance providers, our focus is on delivering personalised attention and exceptional service tailored to you. We deliver dedication and commitment to quality into every part of your experience with us. From the precise repair of your vehicle, which will maintain its original paint and body warranty as per the manufacturer – to the exceptional quality of service we provide. Our focus is on elevating your satisfaction to the highest standards. n

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WHY CHOOSE JAMES ALPE? 1. Streamlined Insurance Handling

We understand the stress that follows an accident, so we’ve designed our services to save you time and hassle. James Alpe takes the lead in dealing directly with your insurance, ensuring a smooth process. If the accident wasn’t your fault, rest easy knowing we’ll handle third-party insurance to protect your valuable no-claims bonus.

2. Extensive Courtesy Vehicle Fleet Forget the inconvenience of being without a vehicle during repairs. Our extensive fleet of courtesy vehicles ensures we can offer you a comparable size vehicle as you stay on the move throughout the repair duration. Your convenience is our priority.

3. Effortless Collection and Delivery

With four dedicated recovery vehicles, we offer a hassle-free collection and delivery service. We understand that convenience matters, and we’re committed to making the entire process as seamless as possible for you.

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James Alpe boasts over 35 years of awardwinning experience as your local bodyshop. With approvals from over 30 manufacturers and prestigious industry awards means our expertise guarantees that your warranty remains intact.

5. Your Choice – Your Rights

Remember, you have the right to decide where

your vehicle gets repaired. Ensure your chosen bodyshop holds the appropriate manufacturer approvals for your vehicle, and insist on genuine parts. You’re not obligated to use your insurer’s preferred repairer – choose quality and reliability with James Alpe.

In conclusion, when winter’s challenges result in a collision, James Alpe emerges as your trusted partner for a stress-free, expertly managed recovery. With a proven track record and a commitment to customer satisfaction, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process. Call now for free friendly advice 01200 444455

What to do in the event of an accident

Stay calm and assess if any medical attention is required. If possible, take photos of the accident before the vehicles are moved. Take the details of all parties, including name and address, insurance company and car registration. If there are any witnesses, note down their details and contact info.

Call James Alpe Ltd on 01200 44 44 55

Speak to one of our friendly team who will offer honest, trustworthy advice on the best course of action for your individual circumstances. We will collect your vehicle and provide a comparable replacement for the duration of the repair, whether the accident was your fault or not. Sit back and relax, we will take care of everything. Remember it’s your vehicle and it’s your choice where your vehicle is repaired.

THE NEW

ALL-ELECTRIC

MINI COUNTRYMAN.

BIG LOVE. MINI TO THE MAX. Combining state-of-the-art technology and rugged design features, the new all-electric MINI Countryman is the biggest MINI yet. Longer, taller, and now featuring a sleek new dashboard complete with a circular touchscreen – get ready to take every adventure to the max. Find out more about the new all-electric MINI Countryman today, then get ready for a bolder road ahead. To discover more, contact us today. Bowker Blackburn Trident Park, Blackburn, BB1 3NU 01254 274333 www.bowkerblackburnmini.co.uk All-electric MINI Countryman: Electric Consumption (WLTP combined): 3.4 – 3.9 miles / kWh; CO2-Emissions (WLTP combined): 0g/km; Electric Range (WLTP combined): 245 - 287 miles. variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. They were obtained after the battery had been fully charged. The MINI Electric is a battery electric vehicle requiring mains electricity for charging. The electric range

Land Rover Nelson Churchill Way, Lomeshaye Business Park, Nelson, Lancashire, BB9 6LL 0330 096 0758

Land Rover Bolton Kay St, Bolton BL1 2RX 0330 108 1023

vertumotors.com/land-rover Vertu Land Rover is a trading name of Albert Farnell Limited which is an authorised representative of Bristol Street First Investments Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Company registration number 00391896. VAT Registration number 902737238. Registered ofﬁce: Vertu House, Fifth Avenue Business Park, Team Valley, Gateshead, NE11 0XA.

WHAT’S NOT TO LIKE? Making travelling a joy, the Range Rover Sport D350 3.0D Autobiography has power, punch and pace, writes Paul Agnew. Photography: Roger Moore

erhaps it is the true test of a great car. That the only disappointment you experience on any journey is to arrive at your destination. So inspired, so exhilarated, so comfortable and so (sorry, nearly said smug!). Is this how you feel with your transportation – that you could quite happily drive and drive and drive? Getting there almost spoils the fun. Basically, whoever said money couldn’t buy happiness must never have owned a Range Rover Sport.

And so exceptional was the model I was privileged to befriend, that I’d happily put my name to it – the Range Rover Sport D350 3.0D Autobiography. It looks great from every angle, makes travelling an absolute joy with its power, punch and pace (combined with the lightest steering imaginable) and, to top it off, serves up the luxurious touches of a six-star hotel.

FOR A VEHICLE THIS IMPRESSIVE AND WITH SO MUCH GOING ON, IT STILL MANAGES TO STAY BEAUTIFULLY UNCOMPLICATED You cannot wait to get going, the trip is a breeze and enviable glances from all around leave you feeling king of the road. The Range Rover Sport D350 3.0D Autobiography is a SUV big in personality with the emphasis on luxury, comfort and off-road ability. In stunning Santorini Black with Light Cloud/Ebony perforated semi-aniline leather seats, it is a stand-out car in any company. The trim is different than anything I’ve seen before, with an appearance somewhere between tweed and granite and a perfect

match with the leather. Diesel, semi-auto with turbo, eight speed, six cylinders and five doors, it can race to 60mph in 5.9 seconds, reach a top speed of 145mph, provide engine power of 4000 (RPM), offer 36.9 fuel economy and provide a generous 647 litres of boot space. If the above stats make for impressive reading then the range of interior features will blow you mind. There are hundreds listed on the spec sheet – here is just a sample: steering wheel rake adjustment, rear and front centre armrests, ambient lighting and rear headrests, headlight power wash, lane keep assist, traffic sign recognition with adaptive speed limiter, AppleCar play, Android Auto, front and rear parking aids, four-zone climate control, electric windows with one-touch open/close and anti-trap, rear collision monitor, park assist, digital LED headlights, dynamic air

motors suspension 60:40 seats with power recline, USB input, auto-remote control digital radio, 22-inch alloys and massaging front seats. For extra ‘driver’s convenience’ throw in windscreen heating, trip computer, keyless go, head-up display, soft close, adaptive cruise control, navigation system, front-view camera, digital instrument cluster and a wonderful opening panoramic roof. Basically, everything you could want from a car – even the windscreen wash nozzle is heated!

WHOEVER SAID MONEY COULDN’T BUY HAPPINESS MUST NEVER HAVE OWNED A RANGE ROVER SPORT You certainly won’t be put off buying a Range Rover Sport because of its lack of features or equipment. In fact, it is hard to imagine why you would be put off buying one for any reason whatsoever. Few cars pamper occupants with such levels of sumptuousness (just checking that is a word and thankfully, yes it is) and it eats up the miles with the minimum of fuss. I don’t advocate it, but one-finger steering is very do-able and the elevation gives you an impeccable vantage point. A word too about the perfectly placed and perfectly angled 13.1-inch screen with a huge array of features right there at your fingertips – it’s easy to see, reach and operate. With built-in Alexa, PIVI Pro and Meridian Signature Sound, you can ask for music, place calls or control smart home devices while you simply focus on the road ahead. It is, of course, entirely possible for you to interact with your car remotely from the comfort of your own home. But for a vehicle this impressive and with so much going on, it still manages to stay beautifully uncomplicated, almost minimalist. Opulent without the bling. No surprise that the international motoring fraternity, many of them incredibly picky and hard to please, speak and write in such glowing terms about the Range Rover Sport. There is nothing not to like and that is the test of a truly great car. n

Vertu Land Rover Nelson Churchill Way, Lomeshaye Business Park Nelson BB9 6LL 01282 935426 Vertu Land Rover Bolton Kay Street, Bolton BL1 2RX 01204 910962 vertumotors.com With thanks to AFC Fylde for providing the backdrop to this shoot.

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PUSHING THE BOUNDARIES Paul Beneduce, Commercial Director at Zara Moon Architects, reveals their unique in-house design, planning and build strategy that creates a seamless journey from concept to completion

hen Paul Beneduce and Zara Moon launched their architecture practice back in 2017, they had one aim – to push architectural design and planning boundaries to achieve the best possible solutions for their sites, buildings and clients. Fast forward to 2024 and they have developed a reputation as being the go-to practice across

Lancashire for bespoke designs, achieving planning success on sensitive sites, and delivering high quality builds. Paul’s role as Commercial Director has accelerated ZMA to achieve in seven years, what most practices don’t achieve in 20 years, with his constant drive for development and growth. His business awareness and market

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understanding ensures the value and development potential for every project is maximised in relation to the client’s aspirations.

Photography: Kirsten Platt

“The business has evolved from being an architecture practice to delivering a turn-key service from design through to completion including tendering, project management and administering the building contract in order to deliver and manage the construction stage,” says Paul.

I HELP TO DEVELOP THE INITIAL DESIGN CONCEPTS PARTICULARLY IN TERMS OF HOW THE BUILDING WILL LOOK, THE OVERALL AESTHETIC, ARCHITECTURAL STYLE AND MATERIALS Paul’s on-site construction experience paired with entrepreneurial drive, is a unique asset within an architecture practice and it is what sets ZMA apart from the ‘traditional’ architecture practice. ZMA have acquired many high-net worth clients, who Paul works directly with to provide commercial strategies to maximise the value of properties and sites across the North West. “Clients approach us to undertake the whole project with the benefits of working with

one team throughout the lifecycle of the project. It ensures communication and quality control can be maintained throughout the construction stage, always ensuring the client’s original objectives are met,” explains Paul. “My involvement begins from the first consultation and continues through to completion. I help to develop the initial design concepts particularly in terms of how the building will look, the overall aesthetic, architectural style and materials. Post planning approval, I will manage the tender process, oversee and project manage the construction stage, providing additional support to our clients when required. “Eighty per cent of the projects we have worked on over the last seven years are on sensitive sites, and as we are passionate about achieving solutions for our clients, the business naturally developed its own specialism for achieving ‘impossible’ planning approvals on these sites,” adds Paul. “Zara is both a RIBA Chartered Architect and our in-house Planning Consultant, which is

another unique combination of skills within the same practice. Planning strategy begins from day one and is integrated within our design process.”

THE BUSINESS NATURALLY DEVELOPED ITS OWN SPECIALISM FOR ACHIEVING ‘IMPOSSIBLE’ PLANNING APPROVALS ON SENSITIVE SITES With an unbelievable 96 per cent success rate on some of the most sensitive sites across Lancashire, ZMA have achieved planning success on some of the most talked-about sites in the North-West. Here is a selection of projects ZMA have been appointed for full architectural and project management services, with more commencing on-site in 2024. n

zaramoonarchitects.co.uk

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BUSINESS MATTERS

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The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in the thriving Ribble Valley, where business always matters

If you have any Business Matters news items contact: jan.woolley@live-magazines.co.uk

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS

A hotelier, restaurateur, wine enthusiast and steadfast hospitality industry figurehead, has marked an astonishing 40 years of leading one of the UK’s most respected fine-dining destinations. Craig Bancroft began his journey with Northcote in 1983 and as Managing Director, he has passionately moulded Northcote into the esteemed establishment it is today. Described by his colleagues as, ‘brimming with passion, dedication and with an unwavering commitment to excellence’, Craig has been recognised with a host of industry awards and accolades over the years including the coveted Outstanding Achievement Award at The Cateys in 2022. He is a Master Innholder and in the wine world he has been awarded Commander of the Order of the Golden Sabre and is a member of the Confraria do Vinho do Porto and Ordre des Coteaux de Champagne.

PARTNERSHIP EXTENDED

Bowker BMW and Ribby Hall Village have confirmed a two-year sustainability partnership extension. The relationship began 12 years ago with a shared commitment to sustainability that continues today. The partnership extension includes an all-electric BMW iX1 courtesy vehicle for Ribby Hall. Located in Wrea Green, Ribby Hall Village emphasises sustainable business practices and is a previous winner of the Green Business of the Year. Their initiatives include promoting energy efficiency, supporting local businesses, and working to divert all its waste away from landfills. Their aim is to maximise recycling efforts. Bowker, meanwhile, received a national BMW UK Retailer Award for the car centre’s commitment to sustainability in 2023. The family-owned business invested almost £2 million in sustainability initiatives in 2022 alone and appointed an Energy Champion to help reduce the company’s carbon footprint.

TOP AWARD

Northcote’s executive chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen was recently named Chef of the Year in the Food & Travel 2023 Readers Awards. Speaking of her delight at winning the award, Lisa commented: “It’s such a huge honour. This award is voted for by the readers of the magazine, which is very humbling. It’s always good to receive another affirmation that our guests continue to love what we do. “Of course, working in a kitchen is all about being part of a team, so I have to thank each and every one of the Northcote team for continually supporting me, challenging me and helping me to keep evolving and improving.” Lisa was praised by the awards organisers for: “Heading up the iconic Northcote restaurant, which has held on to the Michelin-star it was first awarded in 1996, thanks to locally sourced, elegant dishes that incorporate Lisa’s Lancashire roots.”

NEW GROUP BUYER

Bowker Motor Group in Blackburn and Preston has appointed a new Group Buyer. Paul Hattersley joins with buying responsibilities for BMW and MINI centres. Paul will source pre-owned BMWs and MINIs, ensuring the best choice for Bowker customers. Paul joins Bowker Motor Group from Swansway Group, where he has been the Used Car Sales Manager since 2019. He brings almost 20 years’ of experience to the role at Bowker with an automotive retail career spanning several key positions. Paul said: “I am thrilled to join Bowker Motor Group. I live locally and know all about the well-known Bowker family from working in the automotive sector for so long. It’s an exciting new chapter in my career, and I’m looking forward to working alongside the Bowker team.”

Coplow Business Support are a small, personable bookkeeping firm based in the heart of Clitheroe. Established in 2019, our team provide bookkeeping services covering a wide number of software packages including

Xero, Quickbooks, Sage and FreeAgent.

We offer a professional service and work side by side with our clients to ensure they have full understanding of their finances throughout the entirety of their accounting year.

OUR SERVICES: • Bookkeeping services • Software support and training • Financial admin support • VAT returns • MTD support • Monthly or quarterly management accounts

01200 407100 Holmes Mill Business Centre, Greenacre Street, Clitheroe BB7 1EB donna@coplow.co.uk | www.coplow.co.uk | Follow us on

1005170

Whatever you’re facing We’re here to listen Call free day or night on

116 123 Email

jo@samaritans.org A registered charity Chris O’Donovan Photography/Samaritans

samaritans.org/blackburn

NEW YEAR… NEW FINANCIAL PLAN Happy New Year! Everybody in the Raymond James Ribble Valley team wishes you and your family every good wish for 2024

ow are your New Year resolutions going? Do you even make any? Most people’s resolve has diminished by the end of January but at Raymond James Ribble Valley (RJRV) we can help you keep probably the best resolution you’ll make – to review, understand and manage your financial future. Based in the heart of Longridge, the team at RJRV works with new clients to devise an investment plan, which is aimed at meeting that individual’s financial goals. Those goals are specific to each person and could be anything from making sure you are able to fund a three-decade retirement, planning an exit from your business, funding a child’s education, or perhaps making sure your estate will end up with the people you want it to, for the reasons you choose. Or it might be giving you the confidence to enjoy the retirement you wished for from your years of work and saving. So, is 2024 the year when you take control of

your financial future and what might working with us entail? • Understanding your goals. Where are you trying to get to? What would you like to be able to do, when would you like to do it and who do you want to share it with?

AT RAYMOND JAMES RIBBLE VALLEY WE AIM TO HELP CLIENTS GROW THEIR WEALTH, LIVE OFF THEIR WEALTH AND PASS ON THEIR WEALTH TO LOVED ONES • Helping you review your current expenditure. Working with you we will help you question how you spend money in your day-to-day life. For example, how often do you use that gym subscription or streaming service? When was the last time you reviewed your utilities contracts?

Could you consolidate debts and change them to interest free deals? When was the last time you set a household budget and stuck to it? Our professionals will help you take a cold, hard look at your outgoings and ask the tough questions you may have put off. The savings could be substantial.

• Calculating your current financial position. Pensions are often people’s second most valuable asset after their home but are frequently neglected. It is important that they are serviced and looked after accordingly, just like you would a car. For instance, such a considerable asset being invested largely out of line with your risk tolerance or an inappropriate asset allocation, could have a detrimental impact on your retirement plans. How much will your pension provide in retirement? How much should you be saving? How many years will your pension last at your desired standard of living before running out? We can help you answer these questions and devise a smart plan to help you achieve your retirement income goals. • Consolidating your existing assets. It is often the case that individuals amass a

business

variety of pensions, investments and policies over their lifetime. Consolidating two or more existing pensions into one plan can bring many advantages including the benefits of having to review only one savings plan, the potential to save on plan charges and ensuring your investment risk is understood holistically rather than across several portfolios. • Assessing the risk to you. What could cost you your financial security and independence and what do we need to protect you from? What will happen to your financial security if the unexpected happens to you? How many times have you heard the news that someone has received a terrible diagnosis, or another person has died, and each time you have been surprised, because they seemed so healthy? We can help you arrange suitable protection that will protect you and your family in the event that you are the next unexpected person that ‘life happens to’. • Taking the taxing out of tax. Taxes are part of life, but we don’t want you to have to pay any more tax than is necessary. We will work to achieve your plans and in doing so, maximise the benefits of the

many tax allowances available to you, which leaves you with more money to spend on enjoying life. • Building the plan and keeping it under review. Having understood what you want to achieve financially and reviewed where you are in relation to that goal, we will devise an investment strategy which reflects you as an individual, your risk profile, your age, your income potential. Then together we’ll keep it under review to check that you’re on track to meet your financial objectives. At Raymond James Ribble Valley we aim to help clients grow their wealth, live off their wealth and pass on their wealth to loved ones. Our key service areas are savings and investments, pensions, tax-efficient retirement income, stockbroking and estate planning. More than that though we offer the financial strength, infrastructure and resources of a large multinational investment company, with access to world class systems and research. At the same time, we can provide the personable, quality service of an owner managed, local business whose commitment to the community it serves is embedded in its culture.

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We don’t subcontract out to other service providers or companies – we have the capabilities, resources and expertise to do everything in-branch, in a full-service solution. This allows our clients to deal face-to-face with specific specialists within our team of 21 based in Longridge and strips out layers of costs as clients aren’t paying several different companies for the solution they receive. Why not make 2024 the year you resolve to have a free initial conversation with the team at Raymond James Ribble Valley? A warm welcome awaits. n Risk Warning: This article is intended for informational 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 Investment Services Limited 8 Berry Lane Longridge, Preston PR3 3JA 01772 780300 ribblevalley.raymondjames.uk.com

SPORTS SENSATION! A brand-new, fast-paced, fun-packed and sociable sport is about to hit the Ribble Valley. Catherine Robinson finds out more

Photography: Kirsten Platt

hat’s the fastest growing sport in the world? No, I didn’t know either! It’s padel tennis – a quick-paced, social sport that started off in Mexico (hence the spelling). It’s sometimes described as a hybrid of tennis and squash and it’s so easy to play and so notoriously addictive that it’s spreading across the globe like a frontal weather system – and now it’s available in the Ribble Valley. Mark Schofield, one of Lancashire’s top tennis coaches, has created a doubles and singles padel tennis court at the Ribble

Valley Tennis Centre in Clitheroe: “It’s an honour to be the first to bring the game of padel to the Ribble Valley. We have always tried to be at the forefront of innovation in racket sports, running everything from mini tennis for primary age children, to elite squads, to seniors tennis. Padel is the next evolution in racket sports,” explains Mark. As the sport is so new, coaching will initially be central to Mark’s plans: “Padel tennis has already taken Europe and America by storm,” he adds. “It’s huge in London and the south-east. It’s also recently gathered

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Photography: Kirsten Platt

sport

quite a following in south Manchester. In fact, it’s almost impossible to book a court there! They’re snapped up the second they become available.”

IF YOU’D PREFER A LOWER IMPACT SPORT, MARK IS ALSO SETTING UP TWO PICKLE BALL COURTS – ANOTHER FAST-GROWING RACKET SPORT Mark is a former national junior tennis champion and a contemporary of Tim Henman, whom he beat to the National Junior title. He was also Lancashire men’s tennis captain for a number of years and Lancashire singles and doubles champion. So, when Mark is enthusiastic about a new racket sport, it’s time to sit up and take notice! “I really want the Ribble Valley to be at the forefront of this explosion,” enthuses

Mark, who became an LTA accredited padel tennis coach in 2023. “It’s a quick, flowing game that’s great fun. The court is smaller than a standard tennis court and therefore much easier to play. The game of padel is played in an enclosed glass court, subsequently the ball is always accessible. This, coupled with the serve being underarm, as opposed to the traditional over arm serve means that the game is far easier to play. This has a double benefit – for the fitter, more proficient player it means the game can be fast and furious, but for the beginner, or the less fit, it means there’s not as much dead time or running about.” The equipment differs from tennis. The bat – or padel – is smaller than a racket and is made from EVA foam. The ball looks like a tennis ball, but it has slightly less pressure, allowing it to rebound off the walls slowly, giving players more time to hit shots. Mark is convinced that some of padel tennis’s appeal is its sociability, enhanced by its availability on the Playtomic app: “With the Playtomic app you can either book the court as an individual, a group, or as a new player with the availability to invite others to your booking.” Mark is insistent that padel tennis is suitable for everyone – regardless of their age, ability or previous experience – and as this will be the first padel tennis centre in the Ribble Valley, everyone taking up padel now is starting from the same base, eliminating the dread sometimes felt by the adult beginner.

If you’d prefer a lower impact sport though, Mark is also setting up two pickle ball courts alongside the padel tennis. Pickle ball is another fast-growing racket sport which combines elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong. It’s played with a hollow plastic ball and a paddle.

PADEL IS SO EASY TO PLAY AND SO NOTORIOUSLY ADDICTIVE THAT IT’S SPREADING ACROSS THE GLOBE – AND NOW IT’S AVAILABLE IN THE RIBBLE VALLEY “We’ll have everything you need to get started in either padel tennis and pickle ball,” says Mark. “There are no stuffy dress codes. You can wear whatever you feel comfortable in and a suitable pair of trainers.” Mark is offering free coaching sessions in padel tennis and pickle ball in January – so what are you waiting for? n To book a session, download the Playtomic app or call or email Mark: 07917 457861 mark@tennis-centre.co.uk

Free coaching sessions in padel tennis and pickle ball in January! mark@ tennis-centre.co.uk

RAISE A GLASS TO GOOD HEALTH…

sustainably farmed high-quality grapes, each product offers a unique composition and flavour profile. These are not only unique in the non-alcoholic market but would be rare, singular blends in the alcoholic wine space too.

Featuring fresh botanicals, quality grapes and organic herbs and spices, the alcohol-free global drinks market has taken off. We talk to two female entrepreneurs, who are sourcing some of the best alternatives from around the world

o get the new year off to a great start, lots of people will be embarking on ‘Dry January’, giving their bodies a chance to reset and reap the benefits such as better sleep and more energy, or perhaps you’re thinking of opting out of alcohol more permanently. Either way, there are lots of super-tasty alternatives and no one knows this more than the duo behind House of Clarity, who have a portfolio of sophisticated, alcohol-free drinks and seltzers. Ribble Valley-based Abigayle ClaytonGrimshaw and Sophie Birtwell are well aware of the growing demand for more health-conscious options, and in response to this, they have carefully curated a drinks collection to attract those who want

premium alternatives to alcohol. Abigayle explains: “The US, Australia and parts of Europe are ahead of us in terms of emerging products. After trying many of these first-hand and becoming aware of the global recognition, we wanted to share them with the UK. Although we work mostly with businesses in London at present, the popularity is growing nationally and high-end venues across the country are becoming more aware of this necessity and the profitably it can additionally bring. Globally the no and low-alcohol market is now a multi-billionpound industry.” Supplying online and to the hospitality trade, the House of Clarity portfolio features the likes of award-winning Italian Prima Pave, French Bloom and Wild Idol. Using

These sparkling wines are crafted using traditional wine-making techniques, however they further require additional skills to manage the alcohol content. Whether that be close monitoring to

health&beauty

ensure a product never reaches a state where alcohol is present or the complex method of de-alcoholising the wine to remove all traces of alcohol whilst leaving the product’s aromatic character and profile perfectly intact. Another name in the House of Clarity stable includes Pentire – a collection of ‘outdoor inspired’ carefully distilled botanical spirits – well-loved globally by Soho House, amongst many others. The products are made by distilling unique plants native to the coastline of Cornwall, offering fresh herbaceous flavours thanks to key ingredients including rock samphire, sage, lemon citrus and Cornish sea salt.

provide greater inclusivity, with benefits such as being halal certified, vegan, glutenfree and low-calorie.” The collection also features non-alcoholic wines, spirits, premium seltzers and sparkling teas – their Saicho Hojicha Sparkling Tea is made from single-origin cold-brewed green tea from Japan which has a deep umami character and notes of nori seaweed, roasted hazelnut and delicate smoke, with dry and woody tannins. This award-winning refresher is a popular pairing featured in many Asian-inspired Michelin restaurants around the world.

GOLDEN KICK COCKTAIL

Powerful and exhilarating, famed mixologist Jean Vital breathes a wave of freshness into your sultry dinners with the Golden Kick alcohol-free cocktail. This clever blend of ginger and turmeric is a flamboyant encounter with the sweetness of French Bloom le Blanc non-alcoholic sparkling wine. The mocktail created by the Ivy Group’s cocktail developer will dazzle all your loved ones with its radiant character for unforgettable memories. A must-try. Ingredients 20 ml of ginger juice 3 drops of turmeric 120 ml of French Bloom Blanc

Wild Eve is another name that Abigayle and Sophie have tracked down on their travels to source the very best. Wild Eve is a premium aperitif made from plants foraged in the mountains of Harris in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides. Abigayle and Sophie truly believe that luxury alternatives, like those featured in the House of Clarity collection, are not only shifting the mindset around moderation but are bringing awareness to the need for menus to meet wider customer preference: “This isn’t simply about abstaining from alcohol, the products meet broader requirements and

“These exclusive drink variations are very complex, and venues offering them showcase a greater level of awareness and innovation and this resonates with the people who are actively seeking alternatives,” says Sophie. “We want to give people the privilege of choice when it comes to non-alcoholic drinks and support venues to confidently move into this space. The demand from consumers continues to grow here in the UK and this is only propelling greater opportunities for businesses.” n houseofclarity.co.uk

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food&drink We sometimes forget that Cumbria has a long tradition and association with spice – think for example about potted shrimps, Cumberland sausages and its famous gingerbread. Whilst these new dishes take their inspiration from across Asia, the essence is very much the same and a wonderful

A NEW DIMENSION At Gilpin Spice, Tom ‘Westy’ Westerland is curating some stunning new pan-Asian dishes. Tedd and Liz Walmsley visit this iconic Lake District destination

iz and I were thrilled to get the call to ‘test drive’ some of the new dishes on the menu at Gilpin Spice – it’s a love affair dating back seven years since the opening of the restaurant when we were lucky enough to be among the first guests to eat this delicious pan-Asian cuisine. We’ve felt part of this culinary journey ever since and this clever concept has created a second dining option at this award-winning, iconic Lake District destination.

First impressions are always around the casual laid back vibe. Relaxed, sophisticated and beautifully decorated, we’d expect nothing less from the Cunliffe family and Spice just gets better and better each time we visit. Greeted at the door by the effervescent Daniel, we chose a quiet corner table so we could take in the whole restaurant – the

open kitchen with the option to sit ‘up close and personal’ and become immersed in the action is also a great option and makes for a true dining experience.

HERDWICK LAMB RUMP BOTI – TENDER AND JUICY MEAT WITH A CORIANDER, YOGHURT, CHUTNEY AND CUMIN GRANOLA, WHICH TOOK THIS DISH TO A WHOLE NEW LEVEL Recently, the incredibly talented Tom ‘Westy’ Westerland has taken over at the helm of Spice and is in the process of curating some stunning new dishes, which were on the menu for us. I asked him about the new menu and the story behind the dishes: “I’m absolutely loving the challenge of combining fantastic Cumbrian and British ingredients with the incredible flavours of Asia. For me flavour is key, and the spices and Asian flair bring a whole new dimension to the food we cook. We’ve had great fun doing loads of research and development for all the new dishes hitting the menu and we can’t wait for everyone to try them. Come and see us!”

homage to the history of the area. So, what of the dishes – a return to small sharing plates that evoke discussion – believe me when I tell you the dishes were so good. Westy simply gave us a selection to try and suffice to say, they were all divine. My standout plates were probably the Loch Duart salmon chirashi. The textures of wild rice and salmon, combined with yuzu ponzu was simply sublime. Closer to home was the Herdwick lamb rump boti – tender and juicy meat with a coriander yoghurt, chutney and cumin granola, which took this dish to a whole new level.

This Michelin listed, two-AA Rosette restaurant is first class and should be on everyone’s list to visit in 2024 – make the effort to drive from the Ribble Valley and find yourself transported into a truly authentic Asian experience. n

Gilpin Hotel & Lake House Crook Road Windermere LA23 3NE 015394 88818 thegilpin.co.uk

food&drink

FOLLOW THE PACK Opening in spring 2023 and quickly establishing itself as the dining pub of choice, Grindleton pub and restaurant the Rum Fox could be a tasty bet for success story of the year. Kate Bowyer drops in to find owner and head chef Bob Geldeard busy cooking up new surprises for 2024

f you think 2023 passed quickly, that must be nothing to Bob Geldeard. Taking on a derelict pub and overseeing its complete renovation was just the beginning. Building on his previous reputation as head chef at the nearby Duke of York and the Higher Buck in Waddington, he promised to serve the finest food and drink available, with the emphasis on the seasonal, the local and the surprising at the Rum Fox. This was proved immediately and deliciously, with fresh, locally sourced and inspired seasonal dishes with a twist, refreshed by weekly changes and surprises. As word spread about dishes like scallop and prawn toast, partridge Kiev, Grindleton lamb, venison cottage pie and cod loin in oyster and champagne sauce, diners flocked to the new fox on the block, inspiring Bob –

still just 37 – and his talented team to add more innovations. These include regular dinner and wine tasting events, where a sumptuous five-course tasting menu is matched with pairing wines and a talk from expert Richard Bracken from Milestone Wines.

WORD SPREAD ABOUT DISHES LIKE SCALLOP AND PRAWN TOAST, PARTRIDGE KIEV, GRINDLETON LAMB, VENISON COTTAGE PIE AND COD LOIN IN OYSTER AND CHAMPAGNE SAUCE The beautifully remodelled pub allows visitors to choose refreshment at the bar, relaxing in the glass-fronted casual dining terrace with fabulous views of Pendle Hill, or enjoying open-kitchen views of the busy chefs in the Scandi-style main restaurant. Rich in Georgian-inspired elegance, The Den, a stylish and intimate private dining room for parties up to 10, provides the perfect setting for an intimate twosome, family get-together, formal occasion or party celebration. With word building and national plaudits surely on the horizon, the tip is to get to the

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Rum Fox before the secret’s out. Open from midday Wednesday to Sunday, early booking is required to secure weekend tables, including the incredibly popular Sunday lunch.

“Mid-week lunches are proving very popular with guests enjoying the new season menus,” says Bob, in a rare pause. “Our two-course is £28 and a three course just £34, so there’s plenty to suit any budget. The bar is dog-friendly and becoming very popular with walkers enjoying a pint and seasonal pie after a Ribble Valley stroll, so I’d advise prebooking.” Taking a peek at new specials for upcoming Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day, it’s clear Bob intends continuing to cook up a storm this year. Bob said: “We’re going to continue doing what we do to our absolute best, and throwing in those surprises that we’re delighted to see are bringing people back for more.” n The Rum Fox Sawley Road, Grindleton Clitheroe BB7 4QS 01200 871691 info@therumfox.co.uk therumfox.co.uk Open all day – Wednesday to Sunday Food served – Wednesday to Saturday 12noon - 2pm, 5.30pm - 8.30pm – Sundays 12noon - 4.30pm

TIME TO CELEBRATE! There have been significant developments at the Black Bull, Old Langho, which continues to see innovation and investment as we go into the new year, writes Tedd Walmsley

ith all the hullabaloo around Christmas and new year celebrations, the most significant of all the developments I’ve recently discussed, might have been missed. Becky and Jamie Govier have finally become the proud owners of the Black Bull. The relevance of this might not be that obvious, but it is far-reaching. The pub has a secure future in their safe hands and the passion, commitment and investment made by Becky and Jamie over the past few years will undoubtedly continue. As the new owners, they have the liberty to introduce a great new selection of beers, wines and spirits plus a host of other new innovations ready for the new year. You may also have seen the on-going construction work at their luxury boutique

bed and breakfast aka Keepers Cottage, another huge investment with the project on schedule to be completed later next year. This project has presented an opportunity to enhance the facilities and widen the overall offering and will no doubt propel them into another exciting chapter. Your continued support is going to be needed and I believe that with so many new ideas, there will be countless reasons for you to see things develop first-hand.

I’ve touched on special events and celebrations before, however as we start a new year, this is the time to plan and prepare for those special occasions. The Black Bull has got a burgeoning reputation as the ‘go to’ destination for creating some very special memories.

A NEWLY-CURATED WHISKY COLLECTION IS THERE TO TASTE AND SPECIAL THEMED EVENTS ARE PLANNED New luxurious menus have been originated as a backdrop for weddings with three bands at multi-price points, so everyone can celebrate in these very special surroundings. Baby showers are also becoming popular with menus to match for all sizes of parties – perhaps we’ve associated the Black Bull with wakes, birthdays, anniversaries and business meetings but whatever the occasion, the team will no doubt make it special and worthy of your trust and support. The enhanced spirits offering will see an amazing range of whiskies available – a newly-curated collection is there to taste and

food&drink special whisky-themed events are planned for early 2024. Similarly, the wine-by-the-glass concept is now fully available and allows the perfect combination of food and wine pairings – this is a great opportunity to extend your palate, try new wines and who knows, you may find a new favourite? If that wasn’t enough, the cocktail collection continues to expand and grow. The bar staff have undergone extensive mixology training and master classes will again be available to book in the new year. Outside of all these wonderful innovations sits the main reason the pub has become part of the elite group of Ribble Valley eateries – it is of course the food and service and the seven-day opening that makes the pub so special. The food offering is extensive and will retain the balance between the Bull classics which are rich and hearty, and the specials created by the talented brigade in the kitchen. Sunday lunch is very much a signature offering with roasts served from 12 noon to 7.30pm or until they run out! The now famous Sunday sharing boards have become legendary, there are of course lighter bites, sandwiches and salads, which give the Bull its reputation for boasting that there’s something for everyone. The first few months of the year there are bank holidays, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day and of course Easter with lots of special menus and music under consideration. I’d recommend following the Black Bull closely on social media and regularly checking their website to see these events revealed. As we start the new year, I can only urge you to continue your support for this amazing team, led of course by Becky – the welcome will be as warm as those cosy fires and candles, that are the true essence of a pub in the Ribble Valley in winter. n

The Black Bull Old Langho Road Old Langho BB6 8AW 01254 248801 enquiries@theblackbulloldlangho.co.uk theblackbulloldlangho.co.uk

THE FOOD WILL RETAIN THE BALANCE BETWEEN THE BULL CLASSICS WHICH ARE RICH AND HEARTY, AND THE SPECIALS CREATED BY THE TALENTED BRIGADE IN THE KITCHEN

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Photography: TVPav Photography: TVPav

A WARM WELCOME AWAITS These are exciting times at Gazegill Organics with the launch of the new Restaurant Eight at Gazegill, writes Gail Bailey

here is a new arm to Gazegill Organics in the form of an exciting new restaurant, Eight at Gazegill by chef patron Doug Crampton. “For a number of years, we have toyed with the idea of taking our home grown produce from farm to plate right here at the core of the business,” explains owner Ian O’Reilly. “With a history spanning generations, the family have worked this land and have all left their mark – a heritage that we are very proud of today. This culmination of nurturing soils and the rich diverse nature the farm plays host to, makes this restaurant

a testament to generations of organic farming and an unfaltering connection to the land. It just seemed the right thing to do!”

EIGHT AT GAZEGILL BY DOUG CRAMPTON WILL BE A CELEBRATION OF OUR OWN ORGANIC MEAT AND LOCAL ARTISAN PRODUCERS, WHILST CHAMPIONING SUSTAINABILITY AND QUALITY The farm has a rich tapestry of archaeological history that to date remain undisturbed, from the remnants of a Roman road to more recent medieval ridge and furrow, these visible snapshots of time display a landscape that harbours a rich commentary. Add to the landscape heritage, the soil legacy and a rare glimpse of traditional nature and habitat opens up: “With some of the rarest upland

ancient meadows in Pennine Lancashire we are indebted to our ancestors for protecting and passing these precious habitats on, ancient grassland that still thrives today,” Ian says. At the core of Gazegill’s farming ethos are the indigenous breeds they choose, that perfectly align with the sustainable and low input approach. As Ian explains: “Our mainstay herd of Old English Dairy Shorthorns and our partner farm’s Beef Shorthorns are excellent converters of grass to protein. They are traditional cattle that are working in harmony with the soil. Our pigs are all indigenous breeds and our favoured Oxford Sandy and Black is the true allrounder, exceptional fat layers that only build with a slow-grown outdoor busy pig. Right across the species we farm a core of rare traditional breeds that are often forgotten in the modern food world.”

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Photography: Kirsten Platt

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Doug has worked alongside James Martin since the restaurant’s launch in 2013 to produce a menu which offers a mix of classic British cuisine. With Doug’s knowledge and passion for local, seasonal and organic food, combined with the commitment to sustainable and nature-led farming at Gazegill the collaboration is the perfect pairing: “We are really excited to show customers what we have been working on over the last few months,” says Ian.

Photography: TVPav

THIS IS NOT JUST A RESTAURANT. IT IS A CELEBRATION OF ENDURING LEGACY, WHERE EACH DISH TELLS A STORY OF THE FARM’S HERITAGE “Eight at Gazegill by Doug Crampton will be a celebration of great organic meat and local artisan producers whilst championing sustainability, quality and an accessible, welcoming restaurant for all,” Ian adds. Prior to opening fully in Spring 2024 Gazegill held some special one-off taster evenings throughout December which, unsurprisingly, sold out quickly! More events are planned for January and February so watch this space. The name Eight evolved as the restaurant project did, Ian explains: “The shape of our oak octagon became key to every aspect of the build – it also became our largest challenge fitting everything into very awkward corners.

We had to maintain maximum aspect views alongside a space that affords a window of our greatest asset, our land and nature. As we celebrate our soil, we were reminded of the eight festivals of the pagan calendar and the name Eight just felt right, it grew on us and Eight was born!”

Photography: TVPav

Ultimately, Eight at Gazegill is the marriage and culinary celebration of traditional and nature-led farming practice with the masterful kitchen experience and skill that Doug Crampton brings to the pass: “This is not just a restaurant,” says Ian. “It is a celebration of enduring legacy, where each dish tells a story of the farm’s heritage that is perfectly designed, matched and orchestrated by Doug.” Former head chef at James Martin in Manchester, Doug started his career in Leeds as a sous chef before a trip down the M62 to James Martins’ Manchester235 restaurant.

The new restaurant is the perfect collaboration between nature-led farming and culinary excellence: “Welcome to the dining experience that has a conscious obligation to nature and a creative dedication in the kitchen,” adds Ian. “Welcome to Eight at Gazegill by Doug Crampton.” n

Lower Gazegill Farm Dancer Lane, Rimington Clitheroe BB7 4EE bookings@eightatgazegill.co.uk 01200 445519 gazegillorganics.co.uk

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INNOVATION AND RESILIENCE! Catherine Robinson visits a much-loved Ribble Valley inn, shortlisted for a Lancashire Tourism Award in recognition of its rise from the ashes. Photography: Kirsten Platt

he Three Millstones Inn at West Bradford has been shortlisted for Lancashire Tourism’s prestigious Innovation and Resilience Award. There are few better words to describe Matthew Frost’s thriving Ribble Valley business, which has literally risen from the ashes. As recently as 17th July 2022, 13 fire engines were in attendance at the well-known Grade II listed hostelry as Matthew watched the flames lick 30 feet into the air. Thankfully, the skill of the fire crews contained the inferno to the pizza kitchen: “If the decking hadn’t been top quality, the flames would have engulfed the whole building,” Matthew says. It is a measure of Matthew’s resilience and determination that within 24 hours

suite with its own private patio. Like all of the Three Millstones’ rooms, the newest has independent access and is dog friendly. Such is its charm, I envision myself at the stylish patio table with a glass of wine in my hand and my dog at my feet. The cosy new room merges the modern with the rustic in what has become the Three Millstones’ hallmark style. The décor is understated but the fabrics are plush with deep carpets and a soft velvet-covered headboard. The whole suite benefits from underfloor heating and, up three steps, is a surprisingly spacious wet-room. The room is beautifully tiled but the show-stopper is its vast shower, which runs its whole width and has a huge, sleek rainfall shower-head.

of the near disastrous event, the Three Millstones Inn was up and running again: “We don’t know how the fire started, but there was no way I was reinstating that pizza kitchen!” Matthew explains. Still shaken by the possibilities that had so nearly destroyed his dreams, Matthew came to a bold decision: “There was only one answer. I had to build back better!”

THERE WAS ONLY ONE ANSWER. I HAD TO BUILD BACK BETTER! Barely 15 months from the day that almost rendered Matthew’s life’s work in ruins, he shows me into a bijou luxury suite built on the site of the blaze. “Our eleventh bedroom,” he announces – though bedroom seems a modest word for the charming split-level

Matthew’s adaptability doesn’t stop here. His seasonal menu of locally sourced produce is currently utilising the Ribble Valley’s game season, and includes pheasant and venison. Although the Three Millstones currently features on all well-known booking platforms, Matthew urges future guests to contact him directly: “There’s always a deal to be done,” he says. “And the personal touch allows us to be certain we are meeting your needs.” n

READER OFFER

Dinner bed and breakfast for £99*, includes £20 per person food allowance. From 16th January to 29th February. Call 01200 443339 for availability and to book. *Applies to direct bookings only

Three Millstones Inn Waddington Road West Bradford, Clitheroe BB7 4SX 01200 443339 3millstones.co.uk

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I knew all the poisons that were untraceable!” When he finished his PhD at the University of Manchester Oscar got a job offer in Mexico City, but as he recalls, it was at the beginning of the hard-hitting, 2008 global credit crunch: “The offer was rescinded so I decided to take on a ‘temporary’ job in the UK.” He went on to get a post as a chemical engineer specialising in water treatment, working part time, which enabled him to make a start on his first published novel, The Strings of Murder, part of a seven-book, murder mystery series.

THE NEW YORK TIMES DESCRIBED THE BOOK AS: ‘A HUGELY ENTERTAINING VICTORIAN MYSTERY’

THE MAKING OF A MYSTERY… Author Oscar de Muriel has had numerous murder mysteries published and is now working on his latest book, a spy thriller based on the Mexican artist Frida Kahlo

iving in the heart of the Ribble Valley countryside, author Oscar De Muriel is originally from Mexico City, where he started writing as a young scholar. Now a successful published author, translator, violinist and chemical engineer, when he left school he studied at university in Mexico: “Chemical engineering turned out to be great training for murder mysteries.

“As I was only working three days a week, I had a lot of time on my hands but not enough money to go out! I had the plot in the back of my head and wanted to write a detective series. “I have always loved this genre – I really enjoy it. I love Agatha Christie and Sherlock Holmes – the Hound of the Baskervilles is one of my favourites! When I was a child my mum had all those books on her shelves so I just helped myself. “At the time I thought a Victorian-style X Files series would be a good concept, so I created two detective characters, Frey and McGray, who only take on cases that appear to be related to the supernatural. One of the detectives is English, the other Scottish and for most of the series they truly hate each other! All seven books feature the same two characters – one of whom has a tragic past.”

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arts&culture When he starts every novel, Oscar does a tremendous amount of research: “It was surprisingly easy to find facts and even detailed street maps from Victorian times for the book,” he says. The Strings of Murder is described as ‘a spellbinding concoction of crime, history and horror’. Set in Edinburgh, Oscar’s favourite city, in 1888, the plot revolves around a virtuoso violinist, who is brutally killed in his home. The suspects in the case all talk of a cursed violin once played by the devil himself. Oscar explains: “There are some spooky legends around the Devil’s Trill Sonata and I always wanted to weave it into one of my plots. It is said to put a curse on people who play it. The finger positions are acutely uncomfortable, and musicians have been known to damage their hands playing it. The curse is central to the locked practice room in The Strings of Murder.”

MY AGENT GAVE ME A BOTTLE OF CHAMPAGNE SO I SAID I WOULD OPEN IT ONCE THE FIRST THOUSAND COPIES SOLD – WE DID THAT BY THE FIRST WEEKEND! Once the script was complete, Oscar set about finding an agent in a bid to get the book published: “It took a long time. I got an agent in 2012 and didn’t get an offer until 2014,” recalls Oscar, who was then working in Skipton and living in a rented property in Chaigley: “At the time I was thinking I needed to get a cheaper car so I could start saving up to get a mortgage. “To be honest I had given up hope of ever getting published and then I got a call out of the blue from my agent’s PA to say Penguin was interested! I remember the day vividly – it was February and the weather was awful but the news that I had a publisher made me so happy!” The script for The Strings of Murder went through a rigorous editing process during which the publishers suggested minor changes to the opening chapters and increasing suspense nearing the end: “I agreed with all their suggestions as it made the book better,” says Oscar. The script then went through a copy edit before being finally proofed: “On the day it was published my agent gave me a bottle of champagne. I said I would only open it once the first thousand copies sold – we did that by the first weekend! So, I said I would open it when we got to 10,000 which we did in the

following few months, so it did quite well.” A review in the New York Times describes the book as, ‘A hugely entertaining Victorian mystery’, while leading novelist Ian Rankin’s review reads, ‘I enjoyed this – properly creepy and Gothic.’ “I always get nervous about reviews, but luckily, I’ve had very few bad ones. I get more nervous submitting my first drafts to my editor!” On the back of The Strings of Murder, Oscar wrote six more Frey and McGray novels including The Darker Arts, The Sign of the Devil and The Dance of the Serpents. Described as ‘one to watch’, Oscar has since written a trilogy, The Cloister Murders based in the 17th century, which was launched at Kings College, London. His latest book, Death on the Polar Express, was published by Lausch Medien in three languages as an audio book, e-book and a limited-edition print run, just before Christmas. Oscar met the German publishers last year at a book fair in Frankfurt: “I told them I had written this book really for fun. They said, ‘We love it! Just don’t give it to anyone else!’” Looking to the future Oscar is currently writing his first spy thriller, which blends fact and fiction. Based on the Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, the book is set in wartime Paris and New York: “It’s set between 1938 and 1940, and even though it is a thriller, it is turning borderline non-fiction – most of the twists are real and that’s why my agent is really excited about it. The book will even include some real pages from The New York Times that show tantalising hints of high-level espionage just at the brink of the war. At the moment I am really enjoying doing the research,” says Oscar, who has contacted the director of the Frida Kahlo Museum in Mexico in order to authenticate certain facts for his novel. “There are six official Frida Kahlo experts worldwide and she is one of them. She has been so helpful and given me scans of original letters from Frida Kahlo written at the time the book is set, which are fascinating. “Doing the research for my books has resulted in me making some wonderful friends and meeting some incredibly interesting people.” n

NEW YEAR NEW WORK

HENDERSON CISZ ‘Rooftops of London‘

FABIAN PEREZ ‘Eden in Toulouse’

MR KUU ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s‘

YUVI ‘Be a Legend‘

Longridge Gallery is starting off the new year with new work by some of our most sort after artists 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

AN EVENING OF ART A new concept that will give dinner guests the opportunity to learn about the work of three critically acclaimed artists is to be held at a renowned Ribble Valley hotel and restaurant

using inspirational art with innovative food is the idea behind a fabulous evening that will see a collaboration between Longridge Gallery and Gibbon Bridge, introducing guests to three nationally acclaimed artists.

On 22nd March 2024 the Art & Dinner experience will feature works by Michael Ashcroft, Andrei Protsouk and John Russell – each at the top of their game but with differing views of the world. Dinner guests will arrive to a welcome

drink and a carefully curated exhibition featuring the three artists’ work. With each artist demonstrating a different style, guests will have the chance to browse the exhibition before dinner is served. During the evening, there will be a presentation by Longridge Gallery’s Alistair Sheret, who will speak about the artwork, the artists themselves and their contrasting styles. Michael Ashcroft grew up in the heart of Lancashire and after leaving school in 1985 he began his career as an engineer,

arts&culture

painting and sketching only in his spare time. In 1998 after he had a major operation to remove a brain tumour, he decided to paint more seriously and returned to college. Over the years his paintings have evolved from early abstracts in acrylics to using oils in more representational works painted on location. The foundations that underpin his paintings haven’t changed – his fascination with light and dark and his love of the city and the landscape. He is a member of the Royal Institute of Oil Painters and Manchester Academy of Fine Arts. He has exhibited with the Royal Society of British Artists, the Howard De Walden Exhibition and the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition in London. Art critic David Lee says of Michael: “In his landscapes as well as his views of the city, he willingly lays bare his pleasures and beliefs.” Andrei Protsouk was born in the industrial city of Donetsk in Ukraine and his work now hangs in private collections of notable figures including George Bush and is considered to have excellent investment potential.

Demonstrating an exceptional gift for art from a young age, on leaving school Protsouk attended the prestigious Lugansk School of Fine Art and the Ilya Repin Leningrad Institute – widely regarded as one of the world’s finest art training programmes. Protsouk studied under Evsey Moiseenko, a world renowned contemporary of Marc Chagall and Pablo Picasso. Moiseenko adopted

ART & DINNER 22nd March 2024

A collaboration with Longridge Gallery and Gibbon Bridge Hotel

£50 pp inclusive of Prosecco and canapes with three-course dinner and coffee.

Accommodation (if required) £150 based on two people including full English breakfast. (PLEASE NOTE: Payment is required at the time of booking the event)

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Protsouk as his protegee, recognising the potential of his remarkable talent. Protsouk’s early work reflected the melancholy of Soviet living conditions, using heavy textures and a dark colour palette. In 1994 Protsouk moved with his family to the US, where he quickly established himself as a prominent figure on the contemporary art scene. His paintings became more colourful, his subjects more joyful and much of his work now centres around the universal theme of love, frequently depicting couples in the midst of passionate dances or embraces. His use of constructive line demonstrates his innate understanding of the human form, drawing comparisons to the figurative works of Michaelangelo. He now works from a studio within his own gallery in Pennsylvania, continuing to experiment with a range of media and subject matter. His talent has resulted in phenomenal commercial success, having completed commissions for Johnnie Walker and Coca Cola. John Russell is a Scottish artist now living on a farm in northern England. His work depicts British landscapes featuring brooding skies, which are skilfully crafted and stylised – the foreground dramatically lit to great effect often by a bright and striking moon. His work combines a mix of traditional with a contemporary finish that is sometimes enhanced by a resin coating. Interestingly, his palette is often matched to that of paint-maker Farrow & Ball resulting in the block colours he uses, being sympathetic in contemporary interiors. From Yorkshire farms to Highland crofts, Lakeland cottages to Cornish mines, rugged, barren scenes are his favourite subject matter. John’s work, which is highly soughtafter, is enigmatic and thought provoking. This fun and light-hearted Art & Dinner evening will be of great interest not only to experienced collectors of art, but also to those who want to discover and learn more about the artists behind the works – how their style has developed over time and the influences and beliefs that have inspired them. n Preferential rates to stay in one of the Gibbon Bridge’s luxurious rooms are available. If you would like more information or to secure your place on this unique evening of art and food, call the hotel on 01995 61456.

Gibbon Bridge Hotel & Restaurant Green Lane Chipping, Preston PR3 2TQ 01995 61456

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GOOD READ Lauren Molyneux curls up with a latest bestseller that makes the mundane remarkable

CHECKOUT 19

Claire-Louise Bennett ‘The way that reading ought to be done. Turning the pages. Turning the pages. With one’s entire life.’ Our nameless protagonist revisits the moments in her life that have shaped her character, from schoolgirl crushes to adult relationships, studying in London to travelling the world, each memory distinct and isolated, yet somehow fusing together to form the picture of a person. Checkout 19 offers snapshots of a life seemingly captured through the lens of literature. The works of great writers and not-so-great writers alike are used to frame specific memories and moments from our protagonist’s own history, which she reshares in fragments, using this peculiar and feverish blend of fiction and fantasy merged with the everyday. Checkout 19 is one of those rare books you’ll wish had infinite pages. It offers unlimited food for thought, pauses for reflection and boundless beauty, making the mundane remarkable and the remarkable even more so. It’s delicious, intoxicating, familiar, surprising, witty, funny and warm. If you’re a reader who’s shuffling through one of those spells that inevitably come around from time to time, where no book you pick up really hits the mark or satisfies that need to be moved by something profound, Checkout 19 is probably the best remedy you could hope for. In her unique way of reflecting on the world and her experience in it, Claire-Louise Bennett has a rare and impressive ability to organise her words and offer them up, as though on a silver platter, in exactly the way you’ve been craving. When it’s done, you’re changed. You might not be able to quite put your finger on it, but this incredible writer, with her distinct voice, her unmatched appreciation of the written word, her talent for storytelling, her particular way of expressing a moment and a memory – she’s changed you. You’ll think back on the pages that appear to have just turned themselves in your hands and wonder exactly what it was about the book that grabbed your attention so abruptly and held onto it for 200-odd pages. You’ll be desperate to speak with someone about it – to thrust it onto your friends and urge them to read it immediately so you can enjoy a deep, enthusiastic discussion together about the joy of Checkout 19. But when they ask what it’s about, that might just be one of the trickiest questions you’ve ever had to answer. It’s not so much a book about something – a particular character or series of events – as it is a book that gives everything. It’s a book that you’ll get to the end of and immediately want to flick back to the beginning. It’s a book that will have you reaching for a pen so you can jot down a string of words that have struck a chord somewhere unexpected. It’s a book that you’ll be eager to share yet equally attached to – that you’ll want to keep on your shelf for the comfort of knowing you can revisit it whenever you please. It’s a book that rekindles a certain fascination with the act of reading and the art of writing and satisfies a certain hunger you might not have realised you had. It’s a book you will never regret spending the time to read. n

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Newchurch Newchurch Meadows, Meadows, Johnny Johnny Barn Barn Close, RossendaleBB4 BB47TL 7TL Newchurch Meadows, Johnny BarnClose, Close,Rossendale Rossendale BB4 7TL Newchurch Meadows, Johnny Barn Close, Rossendale BB4 7TL www.newchurchmeadows.co.uk www.newchurchmeadows.co.uk www.newchurchmeadows.co.uk

NEWCHURCH MEADOWS CONTACT:

HOMES HOMES HOMES

HOMES

www.newchurchmeadows.co.uk

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PROPERTY PREDICTIONS As we head into 2024, Ribble Valley estate agents voice their opinions on what direction the property market will take as the year progresses AFFORDABILITY AT THE FOREFRONT

“The housing market remained resilient towards the end of 2023, which is surprising given the mortgage interest rate rises, at times unstable economy and high cost of living. Buyer demand remains at a good level with first time buyers in particular returning to the market now that interest rates seem to have stabilised. This bodes well for the market in 2024 as it allows the rest of the market to move upwards. There may still be some uncertainty with the looming general election and the changes this may bring about. “Affordability will still be at the forefront of buyers’ decision making, so sellers may see a slight reduction in the price that they can command for their property. Accurate asking prices will be paramount in achieving the best possible price for homes, this together with an agent who offers honesty, excellent customer service and the use of cutting-edge technology to showcase properties should be every seller’s priority.” Jo-Anne Blow, Director – Stones Young Sales & Lettings stonesyoung.co.uk

NEW INSTRUCTIONS NEEDED

“We are very excited to welcome 2024 – we start the year with the prospect of some fantastic instructions coming to market from Boxing Day onwards, with a variety of property types from houses with and without land, cottages in village settings, grand country homes, development opportunities and some fantastic new build developments along with farms and land, all giving the prospect of a really good market place as we head into the new year. “We can feel a strange pent-up demand, with people looking to purchase and sell ‘AB properties’ but in a more measured way than the period immediately after the pandemic. There are serious buyers in the market and a distinct lack of good quality instructions. We are looking for new instructions into the spring and beyond to meet this demand. We are so fortunate to be entering 2024 with a fantastic team ready and raring to go! We love what we do.” Hannah Towers, Head of Agency – Armitstead Barnett abarnett.co.uk

NATIONAL RECOGNITION AT THE EA MASTERS 2024! A leading Lancashire estate agents have won a Gold Award at a recent awards ceremony in London Stones Young have been recognised as one of the country’s top estate agents by the EA Masters and have secured a place in the Best Estate Agency Guide 2024. The team were invited to London for the UK’s biggest estate agency award ceremony last month. The award-winning team go above and beyond for their clients, providing exceptional marketing, unparalleled customer service and achieving remarkable results. This recognition is a testament to their incredible team and the trust of their clients. Not only did they win the prestigious Gold Award (top 5%) but have also been recognised as one of the top 500 estate agents in the country. The assessment is industry-wide and only those that meet the very highest standards are included. You can be confident you’re dealing with one of the very best estate agents in the area. To arrange your free valuation, call your nearest branch and speak to one of their dedicated team.

Mellor Brow, Mellor, BB2 7PN £525,000 Outstanding semi-detached family home

Masefield Close, Old Langho, BB6 8HS £525,000 Incredible five-bedroom detached home

• Four stunning bedrooms • Beautifully appointed kitchen & bathrooms • Driveway parking & garage • South facing garden with rural views

• Sought after Brockhall Village location • Two wonderful reception rooms • Double garage & extensive driveway • Beautifully maintained gardens

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

Slaidburn OIRO £1,000,000

A beautiful, traditional four-bed farmhouse with three detached stone barns with PP to convert to four new dwellings.

Samlesbury Asking Price £450,000

This hidden gem close to Hoghton is an extended mews property with outstanding views across Samlesbury.

This incredible development opportunity sits within a stunning rural location by Stocks Reservoir, in a total plot size of one acre in a traditional courtyard setting and grass paddock.

With four bedrooms, three reception rooms and generous gardens there is ample space for parking, a triple garage and workshop. It is rural in feel yet is close to transport links.

Hoghton, Preston Asking Price £595,000

A charming, spacious Edwardian property with a wealth of accommodation and good mixture of modern and original features throughout.

Longridge, Preston Offers Over £375,000

A rare opportunity to acquire a stunning modern property situated in a gated estate on the edge of Longridge, offering spacious accommodation throughout.

Benefiting from four reception rooms and four double bedrooms, this home is on the ever-popular Gregson Lane, with well-maintained gardens to the front and rear which enjoy the sun all day long.

Ideal for a growing family, this four double- bedroom property is immaculately appointed and has well-maintained gardens, garage and parking.

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TEN THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR BUILDING CONVERSION Creating your dream home doesn’t automatically mean starting from scratch. Zara Moon of ZMA explains

any of ZMA’s clients already have buildings that just need to be re-designed to suit their requirements and some of the most unique properties are conversions of existing buildings. In the same way that it is important to maximise a site, it is equally important to utilise the existing fabric of the building.

1. Does it have heritage value?

be feasible to extend as well as convert. This is dependent on the site location and other constraints such as green belt, AONB or Conservation Areas.

4. What are the site conditions?

Depending on the building’s previous use, the ground may be contaminated, the foundations may not be sufficient for the new use and the building may contain asbestos. This can be assessed through a site survey.

Before any design work commences, you have to understand the history of the building. You need to know if the building is listed. This can be found by visiting historicengland.org.uk. Even if your building is not listed, it may be classed as a Non-Designated Heritage Asset, it may be located within a Conservation Area or be within the setting of a listed building.

2. What is the site/building history?

Next it is important to understand what the building was used for historically, what constitutes the ‘original’ building. Is the original building still evident, or has it been lost? Are there any original openings/features remaining which should be preserved.

3. I s it convertible for the proposed use?

Your building needs to be structurally suitable for converting without having to significantly re-build and would require a structural survey to accompany a planning submission. It may

construction phase will be restricted, you would require a license to carry out the work and you will need a strategy of how to ensure the ecology will not be affected.

8. Does it have appropriate access?

Barn conversions can be in remote locations. Access needs to be suitable – this includes parking, turning and exit the site without having to reverse onto the highway, and adequate passing places on country lanes.

9. Does it have existing services?

5. Is planning approval required?

Some change of use schemes do not require planning approval as they may fall within permitted development, but they may still need prior approval from the local authority. Always ask your architect if planning approval is required. If your project does not require planning permission, the conversion will still need Building Regulations approval.

6. I s the plot suitable for the proposed use?

Services and utilities will need to be provided, sometimes you can connect to existing utilities or the location is within easy reach of mains services, however other locations may require bore holes, package treatment plants and on-site power generation.

10. I s the design appropriate for the building?

In order to satisfy your specific requirements and the local authority – the design needs to be appropriate for the building, site and context. If you have a building which requires a re-design, change of use or conversion, then contact a member of our team for a free consultation. n

The external area surrounding the building will also need to be adequate for your conversion to suit the specific use such as access, garden areas, bin storage and parking spaces.

7. Does any wildlife live in or close to the building?

Many conversions will require an ecology survey which investigates habitats such as bat, bird and barn owls. If any are present, the

Zara Moon Architects The Barn at Fieldings Farm Whalley Banks, Whalley BB7 9JL 01200 403840 zaramoonarchitects.co.uk

INDIVIDUAL EXPERIENCE MEET OUR PRINCIPAL | ENJOY A FULL SCHOOL TOUR | TASTER DAYS Book your individual experience by calling 01254 823 546 or email our Registrar, Kay Aspinall at aspinall.k@oakhillschool.co.uk SCHOOL 5 - 16YRS | NURSERY 0-4 YRS | oakhillschool.co.uk | 01254 823 546 | Wiswell lane, Whalley, Lancashire BB7 9AF