Live Ribble Valley Issue 149 May/June 2024

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14 CYPRUS UNTOLD

A podcast produced by former army captain Sam Lewis-Blanc is attracting attention from around the world.

114 BUSINESS HOUR

A new £16 million development in the heart of the Lancashire countryside, is set to become one of the UK’s largest, luxury spas.

126 JOIN THE CLUB!

Carol Wilson meets business partners Ben Slaven and Andy Edwards, who are enjoying global success with fashion on the fairways.

128 RACING AHEAD

As the British Touring Car Championship gets underway, a series of limited-edition prints depicting the fast-paced world of motor racing, have been given a fresh new look for the 2024 season.

154 BEYOND BROTHER BEYOND

Brother Beyond frontman Nathan Moore, talks about Top of the Pops, fame in France, walking the red carpet and his new life in the Ribble Valley.

LIVE MAGAZINES

Chairman: Simon Smith

Managing Director: Tedd Walmsley

Company Secretary: Elizabeth Walmsley

Editor: Jan Woolley

Graphic Designers: Nick Dittrich and Rob Walmsley

Operations Manager: Kate Hyde

Production Manager: James Britton

Sales Account Manager: Jane Hughes 07875 696 928

Photography: Peter Austin, Wayne Farrow, Kirsten Platt, Michael Porter and Suzanne Skeen

Editorial contributors: Paul Agnew, Gail Bailey, Lucy Bale, Kate Bowyer, Dan Hyams, Kate Hyde, Lauren Molyneux, Lynn Scholes, Alan Veale,Carol Wilson, Jenni Walmsley, Robert Walmsley, Liz Walmsley and Tedd Walmsley

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Editor

It’s all about the boys in this men’s issue of Live Ribble Valley and as always, we’ve met some fascinating people in the past few weeks.

We talk to Sam Lewis-Blanc a former army captain, who has served worldwide - in Afghanistan, Syria and Iraq. However, it was his time spent in Cyprus, working as part of the United Nations’ peacekeeping force, that led him to launch his podcast, Cyprus Untold. This year marks the 50th anniversary of a conflict that literally split the Mediterranean island in two, back in 1974. During his time in Cyprus, Sam lived on the site of the now-derelict Nicosia airport, which formed part of the ‘buffer zone’ marking the division of the island, which still exists today. Cyprus Untold, which has followers from around the world, asks some interesting questions as to why this conflict has never been resolved.

Also in this issue, we meet businessman Andrew Brown of Crow Wood, who has invested £16 million on a development scheme that will double the size of the Woodland Spa, creating what will be one of the UK’s largest and most luxurious spa destinations. It is a huge project that will see a new vaulted pool room, a world-class ‘ice lounge’ and a rooftop terrace with a new restaurant, fire pits and a super-size hot tub overlooking the hills beyond. As our Business Hour pages always demonstrate, the entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in this beautiful part of the world!

On a smaller scale, we visit a highly successful fledgling business run by brothers Shane and Tom Hollinrake. Making a dynamic young team, together they make delicious desserts and traybakes that are shipped all over the UK. With a Saturday pop-up, and brimming with new ideas, the brothers are always looking at ways in which they can evolve and progress their business.

On the sporting front, we meet dynamic duo Ben Slaven and Andy Edwards, who grew up playing on the greens at Wilpshire Golf Club and went on to set up Function 18 almost two decades ago. Today their online business ensures golfers throughout the world are staying fashionable on the fairways, with America, Korea and Australia being their biggest overseas client base.

In our Arts & Culture section we chat to Brother Beyond frontman Nathan Moore, who moved to the Ribble Valley from London a number of years ago. He talks about his time with the band, appearing on Top of the Pops and meeting the music stars of the 80s and 90s including Take That, Kylie Minogue and Jason Donovan.

We hope you enjoy the men’s issue of Live Ribble Valley!

Jan Woolley Editor

UNTOLD CYPRUS

A podcast produced by a former army captain is attracting attention from around the world, writes Jan Woolley

During his time in the army, Ribble Valley-based Samuel Lewis-Blanc served worldwide, including operations across Afghanistan, Syria and Iraq, but it was his time spent in Cyprus, working as part of the United Nations, that led him to commentate on the Mediterranean island for ‘Cyprus Untold’, the podcast: “I have had messages from Greek-Cypriots and Turkish-Cypriots living all around the world since launching the podcast. It has sparked a lot of interest,” says Sam, who launched the podcast this year – the 50th anniversary of a conflict that quite literally split the island in two back in 1974, when the Turkish invasion of Cyprus happened amidst a background of historic unrest.

SAM STARTED THE PODCAST THAT TAKES LISTENERS INSIDE THE BUFFER ZONE

Turkish forces went on to capture a third of the island with thousands of Greek Cypriots in the north displaced to the south, and Turkish Cypriots in the south displaced to the north: “It tore families apart,” says Sam.

The invasion and mass migration ended in a ceasefire line being created, which was to become the United Nation ‘buffer zone’, commonly referred to as the ‘green line’, which still exists to this day as does the UN peacekeeping force that Sam joined in 2019: “I was the first to hold the post as UN Continuity Liaison Officer – it was a new role and a fast, learning curve for me.”

Over the centuries, Cyprus has had a

series of historic rulers: “It goes way back,” says Sam. “The island has long been regarded as very desirable for its strategic location –hence why the British still have bases there.”

Today the northern part of Cyprus remains mainly Turkish Cypriot while south of the buffer zone is mainly Greek Cypriot.

When Sam was posted to the island to be part of the UN peacekeeping force, he and wife Hannah, along with their young family, lived on the site of the now-derelict Nicosia airport: “The airport hasn’t been touched for 50 years, except for a collection of around 20 houses retained by the British for the families serving on the UN mission.

“We had a lovely colonial era house, with a garden and pool but weirdly, it’s situated literally, within ‘no-mans land’ – the buffer zone. Just behind our back fence there was a Turkish watchtower to the north and abandoned buildings everywhere,” recalls

Photography: Michalakis

Sam, who being part of the UN and wearing the recognisable blue beret, had frequent meetings speaking and negotiating with Greek and Turkish Cypriots. He played a major part briefing Commanding Officers and the UN Chief of Staff, attending senior engagements and top-level meetings: “My job was to bridge the gap. I had to do a lot of research on the history of the island and the conflict – but quite often the research didn’t match the reality on the ground.”

Since the conflict, there have been many attempts to unite the island. The buffer zone has existed since 1974, and Sam got to know it in detail: “One of the on-going problems is that the UN troops change every six months, so new ones would come in and they weren’t familiar with the ceasefire boundaries. As a result, the demarcation lines would creep forward or back over time, land would get stolen and barbed wire would appear overnight. If the buffer zone moves a couple of metres every year – over 50 years you see huge pieces of land lost.

“This peace-keeping mission is the longest UN mission in the world. It’s never been resolved – it’s come close a couple of times, but it’s never happened. Personally, I think the island will always be divided in some

THIS UNITED NATIONS PEACE-KEEPING MISSION IS THE LONGEST IN THE WORLD. WHY IS IT STILL GOING ON?

form,” adds Sam, who returned to civilian life in 2022 to work in cyber security: “I had travelled all over the world but with young children, it was time to settle down.”

Originally intending to write a book about his time in Cyprus, the history of the island and the background to the controversial conflict, Sam changed his mind and started ‘Cyprus Untold’ that takes the listener inside the buffer zone to discover why the Cyprus problem still endures: “I thought it would be interesting for people to know the reality.

It’s very tricky for people to understand the situation so the podcast brings people up to date on the modern-day buffer zone.

“We loved our time on the island. With diplomatic immunity we were able to travel freely to the north and south to experience both sides.

“The people are wonderful, they are very friendly and family orientated so for us, a couple in their mid-twenties with young children, it was an amazing adventure,” recalls Sam.

Having received plenty of positive feedback from the podcast, Sam says: “It’s been phenomenal. I have received so many messages of support from Cypriots on both sides of the island, it’s been overwhelming! A lot of Brits have responded too, as many have served in Cyprus.

“Everyone asks the same question, ‘Why is this still going on?’ People call it a frozen conflict – that means it could melt at any time. And, sadly, as time goes on it’s becoming more likely that unification isn’t going to happen. Perhaps the podcast will help people understand why.” n

cyprusuntold.com

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TV JARGON EXPLAINED

LED, OLED, QLED, HD

and

4K/4K Ultra

HD, the team at Harry Garlick explains what they all mean and what to look for when buying a new TV

In terms of screen technology, the three prevailing types you need to know about are LED OLED and QLED. In terms of resolution, the two main competitors are 4K and Ultra HD. Below we have a guide simply breaking down what all of this means, and how this might influence what you look for when you are purchasing your next TV. First off, here are some things to consider.

LED – LIGHT EMITTING DIODES

As the name suggests, light emitting diodes or LED is a type of screen technology that focuses on the light that the screen emits. The screen technology itself however, comes from liquid crystal pixels which form the surface of the screen, which are illuminated by the LEDs at the back. Most 4K TVs (both UHD and full HD) are LED TVs. As a whole, LED TVs tend to be cheaper than OLEDs, which we will see why in a moment, but they do possess excellent picture quality.

OLED – ORGANIC LIGHT EMITTING DIODES

What distinguishes OLEDs from LEDs is that the pixels on an OLED TV can light themselves, organically. With no need for background lighting, OLED TVs are typically thinner,

which is a favourite for a leading brand that we stock, LG.

QLED – QUANTUM DOT LIGHT EMITTING DIODES

What differentiates a QLED from an LED or OLED is that a layer of crystals that glow once light is shone upon them, are added to the screen. QLED TVs are cutting edge in that due to this technology, the TVs are capable of broadcasting over one billion different colours!

BEZELS

A rather fancier word for a frame, the bezel is the frame that surrounds your TV. Most manufacturers now reduce the size of the frames to be smaller, which are more attractive than the clunkier, larger pieces

of plastic of the past. In upper end TV’s, you may find that there are no bezels at all!

PROCESSING RATES

All of your TV shows, films and live TV are essentially shown to you as a series of images at incredibly high speeds. Surreal, right? It’s a bit like a quantum flick book, before you know it, the flick book has ended. So, in terms of processing rates, there is only one rule. The higher the processing rate, the better, smoother and sharper your picture quality will be. You will likely see this listed in features as Hertz, or Hz for short.

GUARANTEES

Some TVs, typically Ultra HD, have a sticker called Ultra HD Premium that demonstrates that a TV model has been recognised for

meeting requirements of the UHD alliance that formed it, which famously include Netflix and Samsung. These requirements are normally meeting their standards for picture and audio quality, giving you peace of mind that the TV is of a level of quality.

HDR – HIGH DYNAMIC RANGE

HDR is a feature you find more with 4K and OLED TVs. Essentially, it is a piece of technology more associated with these two as it improves the quality of the pixels, enabling better contrast, so deeper blacks and brighter whites. It also helps create texture of layers for more detailed backgrounds such as clouds, grass, seas or natural spaces.

RESOLUTION

In tandem with processing rates, the higher your screen’s resolution, the better your picture quality is going to be. This is based on pixels. The better your resolution is, the more detail your pixels can go into. Most TVs are high definition (HD) which sounds great right? That’s because they are. So, let’s find out why and look at the four most popular types of TV.

HD TVs

HD TVs are also known by 1080p, which is attributed because vertically HD TVs have a resolution of 1080 pixels and 1920 horizontally. There are other types of resolution, but the the two most prevalent types on the market are 4K and 4K Ultra HD.

4K ULTRA HD

Four times the amount of pixels of a HD TV both vertically and horizontally, the 4K Ultra HD offers far brighter colours and darker blacks. As such, the 4K Ultra HD has 3840 pixels horizontally and 2160 pixels vertically. More content is being created now, from TV shows to sport, with 4K resolution in mind, which will eventually make standard HD TVs obsolete. Whilst 4K Ultra is just beginning to take the market by storm, there are two things you need to ensure your TV has, so that you can access 4K content. Firstly, that you have HDMI 2.0 which you may know from plugging in a laptop or gaming console. This is so that you can stream your series, sports or films in 4K Ultra HD. The second, is ensuring that it has a HEVC compression format of H.265.

SO WHAT ABOUT SMART TVs?

Well, as the technology of the TVs we have explained suggest, all of the above TV types are considered to be smart TVs. A smart TV is essentially a TV which connects to the internet without the need for a set-top box,

TV stick or streaming device, meaning you can stream TV directly from your TV or from your phone and devices. n

Which TV stands out the most to you? Let us know, or feel free to visit us in store or contact one of our representatives for more advice.

WINDOWS | DOORS | CONSERVATORIES | ORANGERIES | GARDEN PODS

It’s been great to see the weather turn a corner eventually, after what feels like an eternity of winter! The trees are green, the flowers are finally blooming and it’s been lovely to see many of our regular customers return, along with many new faces too.

These months are a busy time in the garden for many. It’s natural to want to go outdoors when the days are longer, brighter and the temperatures more pleasant. We watch and enjoy nature’s growth and perhaps we feel growth within ourselves too. This may be when we embark on new projects in the garden, spur new ideas and find new plants to make a home for.

INSPIRE, EDUCATE & UNDERSTAND

John Foley of Holden Clough Nurseries highlights the benefits of getting outside in the garden and offers some tips to prepare for the new season

At Holden Clough we’ve been focusing a lot lately on helping to educate people on plant combinations. It’s so easy to end up planting a pickle of plants, where the colours or plants don’t work harmoniously, and you only have interest in a short part of the year. It can seem a little outfacing, but we suggest starting with a brew and a notebook. Have a think about what style you are looking for your space. Soft colour schemes that include pinks, whites, blues and purples can create a quintessentially

AT HOLDEN CLOUGH WE’VE BEEN FOCUSING A LOT LATELY ON HELPING TO EDUCATE PEOPLE ON PLANT COMBINATIONS

English garden, or if you prefer a wide range of colours, then a cottage garden scheme might be better for you. If it’s less about the flower and more about the foliage, venture into recreating a tranquil Japanese garden with spotlights of flowering colour.

watch this space! For now, happy gardening and fingers crossed for a lovely summer. n holdenclough.com

Jobs for summer

Weeding – Remember, one year’s seeding is seven years weeding! A good bark mulch can suppress seeding weeds. Hoeing the soil regularly will also keep them at bay before they take root!

At Holden Clough our new Wonder Garden area ‘Down-by-the-Beck’ aims to be a space that inspires, educates and helps our customers understand what goes into planning a flowerbed, using planting schemes. We look forward to sharing this at the flower shows this summer and we hope to eventually run this through public parks and gardens, so

Expires 21 June 2024.

Watering – The warmer weather calls for more attention towards watering pots, containers and baskets. Water well early in the morning or at the end of the day to soak in well.

Garden projects – There are more usable hours in the day so get planning a new project in the garden this summer – a new seating area, a flowerbed or even a water feature to add more wildlife!

I love everything about the event, from the stunning gardens and displays to wandering around and meeting all our lovely customers.

“Meeting the Chelsea Pensioners and hearing their stories is always a delight, and we are so proud to have partnered with the Royal Hospital Chelsea again on the limited edition collection,” Sophie adds.

Sophie Allport won its first five-star stand award in 2023, wowing judges with a stunning stand that featured a flower cloud, bespoke kitchen and stylish tablescape.

The Royal Hospital Chelsea is the home of the iconic veterans of the British Army, the Chelsea Pensioners.

It offers accommodation, comradeship and the highest standards of care in recognition of the loyal service they have given to the

CHELSEA COLLECTION

Homewares and lifestyle brand

Sophie Allport has revealed an exciting new RHS Chelsea Flower Show design for 2024

Launched at the beginning of M ay, Sophie Allport’s new limited edition Chelsea Flower Show design captures a charming moment at the show, filled with an abundance of delightful flowers, from elegant parrot tulips and bearded irises to foxgloves and nectar-filled lupins.

Dressed in their iconic scarlets, cheerful Chelsea Pensioners enjoy the relaxed grounds and admire a garden sculpture that takes centre stage. The famous Great Pavilion stands tall in the background, and with Sophie’s love for nature and wildlife, there is a nod to some of her existing best-selling collections, including hedgehogs and bees.

For the second year in a row, Sophie Allport

has exclusively partnered with the Royal Hospital Chelsea, donating 10 per cent of net sales from the Chelsea collection to help look after former soldiers of the British Army.

WE ARE SO PROUD TO HAVE PARTNERED WITH THE ROYAL HOSPITAL CHELSEA ON THE LIMITED EDITION

COLLECTION

The Royal Horticultural Society Chelsea Flower Show has been a part of the Sophie Allport story 2010, each year designing a sell-out collection to mark the historic event, which attracts 168,000 visitors from across the world. This year, the collection includes a fine bone china mug, a cotton tea towel, an illustrated hand-signed print and a serving tray – a first for 2024.

Sophie Allport, Founder and Creative Director, says: “We are delighted to return to Chelsea Flower Show for our 14th year.

nation. Some 300 army veterans, both men and women, live at the Royal Hospital today.

As an exclusive partner of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, Sophie Allport donates 10 per cent of net sales from the Chelsea collection to the cause.

Chelsea Pensioner Barbara Whilds said: “I love gardening and have an allotment at the Royal Hospital where I grow fruit. The Chelsea Flower Show is always a wonderful event for the Chelsea Pensioners, and we enjoy seeing all of the exhibits in our back garden! It’s very special to be part of the beautiful Sophie Allport collection and it means such a lot that some of the proceeds from the sales go towards helping older veterans in their retirement.” n

Sophie Allport’s Chelsea Flower Show collection will feature at the Chelsea Flower Show from 21st-25th May.

NEW YORK SIX-SEATER DINING SET

HiGold’s New York six-seater dining set follows an architectural style, blending with all kinds of modern construction. With the special open arrangement of the teak side panels, it looks dynamic and feels comfortable as it allows more room for extra cushions. The design is bold, generous and robust.

CARIBBEAN CORNER SOFA SET

The HiGold Caribbean corner sofa set is characterised by its simple combination of two mini-loungers and one coffee table. The set features seating with textile panels making it comfortable and relaxing. Featuring HiGold’s signature FSC certified, natural teak wood, this set represents a modern style of outdoor living for any generation.

POLO CORNER SET

HiGold’s Polo corner sofa set is a modular set that can be assembled into different configurations. Boasting thick upholstery and cushions, the Polo set is comfortable and cosy for those late nights in the garden. The natural wooden elements assembled at the end of the seating serve as side tables.

LE JARDIN CO FIRE PITS

Le Jardin Co also stock contemporary, eyecatching firepits. The coffee table firepit is perfect for those wanting to enjoy an alfresco drink in the garden – before the summer has even got underway! Similarly,

STYLISH & CONTEMPORARY…

With the arrival of spring, now’s the time to get your outside space in order so you can entertain and enjoy all that the season has to offer

Le Jardin Co is the North West’s exclusive stockist of the luxury outdoor collection by HiGold.

HiGold is one of the leading premium outdoor furniture manufacturers on the market –designed to perfection and using fabrics trusted by luxury yacht-makers for deck furnishings. The solution-dyed acrylic fibre permeates to the very core of the material, creating a rich and fade-resistant colour.

Le Jardin Co is able to combine best-in-class products at competitive prices, even creating an in-house care guide to ensure that customers can enjoy their outdoor furniture for years to come.

NEW YORK TWO-SEATER SOFA SET

The terrific-value HiGold New York two-seater sofa set, which makes good use of natural teak, conveys a strong dynamic feeling. The sofa set can be integrated into different settings and brings a fresh look to your outdoor space that’s ultimately elegant, creating a welcoming outdoor environment for friends and family.

the Cube and Scoop fire pits in concrete finish provide a fantastic solution to enable you to spend more time in your garden on cool summer evenings.

HOT TUBS AND SPAS

In partnership with Le Jardin Co, Ribble Valley Spas is the North-West’s premium hot tub and swim spa supplier and installer. Based in Lancashire, they are a family business with more than 20 years’ experience working with one of the biggest importers in the UK. n

CELEBRATING A FANTASTIC 20 YEARS IN BUSINESS

Bathrooms to inspire...

Bathrooms to inspire...

Bathrooms to inspire...

Bathrooms to inspire...

Bathrooms to inspire...

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

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

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

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

inspired in 3000 sq ft showroom The Original Bathroom Company

Be inspired in our 3000 sq ft showroom The Original Bathroom Company

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

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

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

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

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

Be inspired in our 3000 sq ft showroom The Original Bathroom Company tel: 01772 611622 www.theoriginalbathroomcompany.co.uk 84 Liverpool Road, Longton, Preston PR4 5NB • Next to Booths Supermarket EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

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

84 Liverpool Road, Longton, Preston PR4 5NB • Next to Booths Supermarket EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE DESIGN • SUPPLY

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.

tel: 01772 611622 www.theoriginalbathroomcompany.co.uk

tel: 01772 611622 www.theoriginalbathroomcompany.co.uk 84 Liverpool Road, Longton, Preston PR4 5NB • Next to Booths Supermarket

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

EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

PAVING THE WAY

TO A REVOLUTION

When it comes to creating a lasting first impression and that all-important kerb appeal, few things rival the allure of quality stone paving

Aside from its natural beauty, one of the inherent advantages of using stone paving in any hard landscaping project such as gardens and driveways, is its strength, durability and its ability to retain its pristine appearance if well maintained.

However, research carried out by the team at Bannister Hall highlighted that it is not necessarily the cost of the stone that is a barrier to it being used on a specific project, but more often the lengthy installation time, resulting in higher labour costs than alternative materials such as resin, coupled with the availability of skilled installers, which can sometimes be prohibitive.

For over 20 years Bannister Hall Landscaping Supplies and Plant Nurseries has grown to become the North West’s largest single-source supplier of plants and landscaping materials.

As landscaping and paving contractors with 30 years’ experience, supported by 19 years of supplying landscaping products to the trade

and more recently directly to the public, they lead the way in the industry.

Continuous investment and development into creating new and exciting products has resulted in the creation of the PietraPave paving system, unique and exclusive to Bannister Hall, which confidently delivers on every level – visually, practically, financially and ecologically throughout the supply chain including designers, contractors, the end user and the environment.

PietraPave brings natural stone to the forefront of paving by supplying beautiful

natural stone setts bonded to a revolutionary durable and robust backing mat. The mat allows the stone to be laid with maximum accuracy and efficiency, significantly reduced manual handling and delivering astonishing results at a fraction of the price when compared to ordinary methods – making

DEFINITELY A PRODUCT I WOULD RECOMMEND…

“It was the first time our landscaping team had laid PietraPave. Following the detailed guidance provided, using PietraPave couldn’t have been simpler. The speed of the installation was truly outstanding compared to regular paving methods, for such a complex design it literally saved weeks – not days. I very quickly realised my initial reservation was completely unfounded after seeing the accuracy and quality of the finished job. PietraPave is definitely a product I would recommend.”

Adam

Rawcliffe –

Contract Manager Barton Grange Landscapes

natural stone a real option once more for both small and large-scale projects.

Think mosaic tile sheets – but on a much bigger scale, it can be used on small residential projects as well as in large scale commercial developments as can be seen at the Flower Bowl entertainment complex in Garstang where a bespoke natural stone motif was created to match exactly with the huge abstract floral designs on the side of this inspirational, contemporary building.

THE HIGH-QUALITY PIETRAPAVE SYSTEM WAS LAID AND FINISHED JUST FOUR-AND-A-HALF HOURS AFTER BEING DELIVERED TO LONGTON PARISH CHURCH. COMPLETING THIS PROJECT WITH AN ALTERNATIVE PAVING SYSTEM WOULD HAVE TAKEN UP TO TWO WEEKS

Paul Kenworthy from Gardenscene

Linear, fan and circular designs are all offered in a range of colours and finishes to ensure there is something for everyone and there is a large variety of styles to suit a multitude of paving schemes and personal preferences. Bespoke paving designs using a CAD service allows paving to be taken to the limits of the designer’s imagination offering a truly revolutionary service. All PietraPave designs can be tweaked and customised to suit a particular scheme – the colour, finish and thickness of the stone can all be modified to suit the setting and terrain and elevations.

It’s got to be seen to be believed. Richard Hull, Sales Manager at Bannister Hall landscaping supplies says: “We are certainly seeing the trend shift from homeowners wanting resin bound driveways to now desiring the durability and aesthetics of natural stone block paving, mainly due to the revolutionary fast installation time of PietraPave and its cost-saving benefits.” n

Bannister Hall

Potter Lane, Higher Walton Preston PR5 4EN 01772 877087

bannisterhall.com

OPEN MONDAY TO FRIDAY

FREE ON-SITE PARKING

SAND STORM

The serene, comforting and tranquil colour palette of sand tones is emerging as a prominent trend for 2024

Reflective of sandy beaches and desert landscapes, these hues can be seamlessly integrated into flooring, accessories and surface finishes, imparting a subdued and soothing aesthetic.

We take a look at how the latest home products are helping homeowners achieve this on-trend style.

Texture plays a vital role in preventing sand-inspired colour schemes from appearing monotonous.

Sand tones contribute to crafting tranquil and serene spaces, making them a popular selection for bedrooms. This palette can serve as a striking contrast against bold hues or seamlessly blend with neutral schemes. Opting for a plush carpet not only enhances the comfort but also introduces a tactile element that exudes luxury.

TEXTURE PLAYS A VITAL ROLE IN PREVENTING SAND-INSPIRED COLOUR SCHEMES FROM APPEARING MONOTONOUS

Matte and soft finishes in sand-inspired colour palettes can help homeowners create a feeling of space. Pairing this look with stone or bleached-wood floors can uplift this scheme and makes the most of a home’s natural lighting to give an airy appeal.

Kitchens and dining areas have not escaped the trend for calming sand tones. Bleached and natural wood cabinets can be paired with soft stone-effect floors to create a welcoming space. Luxury vinyl tiles offer a practical and budget-friendly alternative to solid stone, ensuring easy maintenance in high-traffic kitchen and dining spaces.

Whatever tones of sand you choose, this colour palette can be both calming and contrasting. From light sandstone hues to deep chocolate browns, this is a colour scheme that presents many and varied options. n

L S Lowry, renowned for his industrial landscapes and scenes of working-class life, often depicted steps in his paintings as they were symbolic of the urban environment he was portraying. Steps were a common feature in the streets and alleys of the industrial towns he illustrated, many of which served as pathways between the different levels of the cityscape evoking themes of ascent or descent,creating both depth and narrative to his compositions.

To arrange a viewing appointment, please call HESKIN 01257 451121 or WILMSLOW 01625 253613, we look forward to welcoming you.

THE HEART OF A FAMILY HOME…

The kitchen in a family home in Trawden has been completely re-designed to create a sleek and beautiful living space. Photography: KapturedbyWayne.co.uk

Alovely four-bedroomed property has been transformed thanks to a streamlined new kitchen that includes a spacious living area which has become the heart of the home for a busy family.

When Donna and Craig Thomson moved into their stone-built home in 2016 with their two children, the kitchen featured matt white units with a black granite worktop: “It soon began to look outdated and as time went on it looked really worn. Neither the design or the layout worked for us anymore,” recalls Donna.

Last year the couple decided to create a new

kitchen and living space and a family friend recommended they visit Clearly Interiors:

“They had visited the showroom and were really impressed with the number of displays and the quality of the units,” says Donna, who with Craig, went along to Clearly Interiors to get a better idea as to what their new kitchen might look like.

“We were similarly impressed! We thought we had a good idea of what we wanted but when we went to the showroom, there were so many displays that gave us some totally new concepts and ideas, which was great.

“We ended up going for the complete opposite of what we had originally envisaged.”

Before visiting Clearly Interiors, the couple had set their hearts on a blue and white colour-scheme however, as Donna explains:

“When we talked to the team at Clearly Interiors they gave us a completely different perspective as to how the space could be used and how it could look.

WHEN WE TALKED TO THE TEAM AT CLEARLY INTERIORS THEY GAVE US A COMPLETELY DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE AS TO HOW THE SPACE COULD BE USED

“And, when we saw a layout in the showroom that featured dark and light grey units, we knew that was what we wanted.”

The original kitchen featured a separate utility, but the couple decided to knock through to create a bigger family living space.

“The utility had just become a dumping ground, so we decided to take advantage of the space and incorporate it into the kitchen.”

The versatile and experienced team at Clearly Interiors set out a plan of works on the Thomson’s kitchen – using Clearly

Interiors’ own craftsmen for the building work, electricals, tiling, plumbing and fitting: “They did everything!” says Donna.

Once the walls to the utility were demolished, new plumbing was fitted along with re-wiring to accommodate the new location of the washer and dryer, which are now integrated into the kitchen behind a matching unit.

While the kitchen could not accommodate an island unit, the length of the room made it ideal for a family area at one end with a dining table, TV and media wall and an integrated wine-cooler. The dark grey base units are handleless, giving a lovely sleek effect to the whole kitchen which features cream Dekton worktops and glass mirrored splashbacks, reflecting the lovely views across the green fields to the rear of the property.

Donna and Craig opted for a whole series of new Siemens appliances including a dishwasher, microwave, large fridge freezer

and an induction hob and Studio Line oven which gives Donna, who is a keen cook, multiple options including roasting and steaming.

Decorative pendant lights were fitted to give the family living dining area atmosphere and ambience, while spotlights were fitted in the ceiling above the kitchen’s working area, along with top-of-the-range Bose speakers for the sound system.

The previous wooden floors were replaced with cream floor tiles complementing the gleaming, cream work surfaces while contrasting with the dark grey base units –creating a beautiful yet ultimately practical family kitchen.

“We love it!” says Donna. “It’s made a huge difference. I absolutely love cooking so when we have friends round and we’re entertaining, it’s fantastic.

“It’s also a really good practical working kitchen – with a dog and two children it’s easy to keep clean and tidy.”

Speaking about the work carried out by the craftsmen from Clearly Interiors, Donna says: “They were amazing and so thoughtful. When they were carrying out the work, they put a temporary plastic door on the kitchen

so there was hardly any dust at all to the rest of the house.

“They left my washing machine plumbed in until the very last minute so there was little or no disruption to doing the laundry and we are lucky that we had a dining room that we converted into a temporary, makeshift kitchen while the work was ongoing.

“The team were marvellous and the standard of workmanship was amazing. We are so pleased with our new kitchen!”

Speaking about the project, Stuart Heyes at Clearly Interiors adds: “Donna and Craig were a pleasure to work with. They had specific ideas on how their new kitchen needed to look and feel but were also open to suggestions, which they considered carefully before feeding back their thoughts.

“Although they wanted to absorb the utility into the kitchen, it still needed to keep the same functions. We were able to hide the washer and dryer along with the plumbing and electric meters but also add a bar/media area which served the new dining table well.

“Blocking up a window and using dark kitchen units would fill most people with dread but not Donna and Craig. They wanted a statement kitchen and understood that marrying these with a light floor, light worktops and tinted mirror splashbacks would give the balance it needed. For anyone looking for a new kitchen, this is a great example that darker kitchens can suit most rooms.

“The finished design, made real by our expert fitting team, is stunning and functional and we hope Donna and Craig have many years enjoyment from it.” n

WITH COURAGE…

A

new rose to

be

unveiled at the Chelsea Flower Show,

is set

to raise much-needed funds for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution

Leading grower Peter Beales Roses is set to unveil Rosa ‘With Courage’ at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show this month – an exquisite new bloom that’s poised to raise more than £40,000 to help support the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI). The spectacular rose marks the start of a new collaboration between Peter Beales Roses and the RNLI and will commemorate the charity’s 200th anniversary with a breathtaking floral showcase that will grace Chelsea’s Great Pavilion.

Peter Beales Roses – a 28 times RHS Chelsea gold medal winner – and the leading lifesaving charity are bursting with excitement to debut their new alliance at RHS Chelsea, presenting a display that not only celebrates the exquisite allure of roses but also pays homage to the extraordinary efforts of the RNLI and its valiant volunteers who, together, have saved over 144,000 lives since the charity’s formation in 1824.

Rosa ‘With Courage’ is a modern classic floribunda, bred to reward the nation’s gardeners with an abundance of beautiful coppery orange, double flowers set against mid-green glossy foliage. Free-flowering,

compact and growing to three feet tall, peachy pink tones add charm to outer petals which display yellow accents at their base, while a sweet apple scent fills the summertime breeze with delightful fragrance. Having performed spectacularly during Peter Beales’ own field trials, ‘With Courage’ has taken six years to come to market to ensure it can more than meet the demands of modern gardens.

GARDENERS WHO GROW THE ROSE WILL BE SUPPORTING THE RNLI AND ITS FLOWERS WILL BE A CONSTANT REMINDER OF THE LIFE-SAVING WORK THAT VOLUNTEERS DO

For Ian Limmer, head of the nursery and plant breeding programme at Peter Beales Roses, the launch of the high-profile rose is personal, because his grandad spent 30 years serving as a volunteer for the RNLI and saved over 160 lives: “In my mind, the colour of the rose reflects the orange of the RNLI boats

while the yellow is reminiscent of the colour of the uniform. Gardeners who grow the rose will be supporting the RNLI and its flowers will be a constant reminder of the life-saving work that volunteers do.”

Ideal for growing in all parts of the garden including borders or containers, in sun or part-shade, ‘With Courage’ is a superbly healthy and highly versatile new rose, that boasts exceptional resilience to summer heat and shrugs off winter cold. What’s more it will happily withstand temperatures as low as -10C, whilst blooms last well when cut too.

Twenty per cent of proceeds from sales of the rose will help to support the indispensable resources that the RNLI needs to survive, including crew, kit and lifeboats.

At the heart of Chelsea’s Great Pavilion and spanning over 100 square metres, a breathtaking display will unfold, showcasing the partnership between Peter Beales Roses and the RNLI.

Central to this display will be a real RNLI rib, surrounded by thousands of Peter Beales’ most stunning roses.

Ian adds: “The unveiling of the garden, with its centrepiece lifeboat alive with roses, will be a truly magical moment. As the world watches, we hope to not only captivate visitors with the beauty of our display but also to raise awareness and much-needed funds for the vital work of the RNLI. n

classicroses.co.uk rnli.org

THE CHESNEY’S ROOM THE DRU ROOM

BRINGING AN ICON TO LIFE

The iconic Ford GT40 has been brought to life in a special partnership between photographer Alan Thornton and Amalgam Collection

Photographer Alan Thornton working with a design and print-making process employed by the legendary pop artist Andy Warhol, has brought yet another iconic car to life, the 1969 Ford GT40 driven to victory at the 24 Hour Le Mans by Jackie Ickx and Jackie Oliver.

The collaboration between the Amalgam Collection and Thornton will offer a limitededition of 200 fine art prints measuring 1.0 metre (38 inches) wide by 0.7 metres (27 inches) tall on archival paper.

What makes Alan’s work so desirable and memorable is his precise creative control over every aspect of the work, from photography through to the ink mixing and pulling of the

prints. Rather than use a four-colour print process, each of the seven colours are defined and mixed to represent each element of the car’s paint and material finishes.

The resulting print has colours of great purity and intensity. Technique and creativity are essential to every stage of this highly skilled craft. The process is sensitive to the touch, feel and technique of the printer and as a result each print is unique. The meticulous nature of the process delivers works of extraordinary presence and depth.

AMALGAM COLLECTION AND ALAN THORNTON

Sandy Copeman, founder of Amalgam Collection, speaking about the artworks of Alan Thornton, said: “Amalgam’s core mission has always been to capture iconic cars in supremely detailed large-scale models. When I met with Alan Thornton in 2020 it became clear to me very quickly that he was on a parallel mission to fully comprehend and capture iconic car designs and render them into perfectly worked 2D artworks.

ONE OF THE MOST ICONIC RACING CARS OF ALL TIME, THE FORD GT40 WAS BORNE OUT OF MOTORSPORT’S MOST INFAMOUS GRUDGE BETWEEN HENRY FORD II AND ENZO FERRARI

As with Amalgam’s models, Alan’s work exudes a passionate attention to the finest details, melded together to deliver a deep and powerful image of the subject. Alan’s artistic comprehension of the car designer’s intentions, combined with his extreme technical virtuosity and a passion for the automotive subjects, results in very special artworks of great intensity and beauty.”

FORD GT40

One of the most iconic racing cars of all time, the Ford GT40 was borne out of motorsport’s most infamous grudge, between Henry Ford II and Enzo Ferrari. The result was a car that was to defeat all before it, eventually securing four successive victories at the 24 Hour Le Mans. The last of these was in 1969, as GT40 chassis #1075, driven by Jacky Ickx and Jackie Oliver, survived mechanical mishap and impending pressure from Porsche to secure the Le Mans quadruple by just 120 metres. n

Amalgam Collection and Alan Thornton Ford GT40 Fine Art Edition is available from the website, £1200.

amalgamcollection.com

GRASSINGTON THE YORKSHIRE DALES

ROYALOAKFURNITURE CO UK 01756 753378

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.

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.”

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

‘Pieces of my heart’ – 40x40cm Box Canvas

‘Fragments of memory’ – 40x40cm Box Canvas

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION GUARANTEED

There is no better recommendation than positive customer feedback and Mowerpower garden machinery continually receive the very best, writes Gail Bailey. Photography: Michael Porter

The sun has begun to make an appearance and the nights are longer so thoughts of summer evenings in the garden finally begin to surface. Mowerpower specialises in horticulture and arboriculture equipment, supplies and servicing and are the number one business to ensure that your lawnmower and garden equipment is maintained and in working order to finally get around to all those outside summer jobs.

Mowerpower employ a team of mechanics across their two state-of-the-art workshops and serve both professional and domestic customers: “We offer a full range of garden equipment and tools along with a vast stock of spare parts,” says owner David Webster. “We are also an approved servicing agent of many of the leading manufacturers.”

One of Mowerpower’s long-standing customers is Alistair Livingstone of Livingstone Tree Care based in Preston and he has high praise for Mowerpower and the service they provide.

Alistair says: “We have been dealing with David and his family at Mowerpower for probably in the region of 15 years and have nothing but praise for the service they provide. The family have over 70 years of experience in the industry, but the whole team at Mowerpower are knowledgeable and provide a first-rate service.”

MOWERPOWER ARE EXPERTS IN THEIR FIELD AND CONSISTENTLY OFFER A KNOWLEDGEABLE AND HONEST SERVICE. I WOULDN’T CONSIDER GOING ANYWHERE ELSE!

Busy arborists and garden maintenance companies are often under pressure to get jobs completed for their customers and Alistair credits Mowerpower with supporting them to do this: “David and his team recognise that we often need something fixing quickly in order to get back out to complete jobs and to service our own customers needs.

“I have sometimes had to run up to their workshop late on a Friday afternoon needing a piece of equipment fixing – and they always try their hardest to help.

“Mowerpower are experts in their field and consistently offer a knowledgeable and honest service. They help me to do my job well and I wouldn’t consider going anywhere else!” n

Mowerpower

Garstang Road

Claughton-on-Brock

Preston PR3 0RB 01995 643999

sales@mowerpower.co.uk

mowerpower.co.uk

NO MOW MAY

May is a marvellous month. The garden is blooming, plants are starting to flower and show their true colours and beds and borders are beginning to fill out and have definition again

If you want to encourage bees and butterflies to your flower beds then think about some wildlife friendly summer bedding such as tobacco plants and petunias. You could also try some edible flowers like nasturtiums and borage.

Nasturtiums are well suited to pots, beds and borders in full sun or partial shade –you can cut them back quite hard during the growing season and they will bounce back. The flowers are best harvested in the morning just as they are opening and you can add both flowers and leaves to salads for a peppery flavour. Borage flowers have a refreshing taste that has a hint of cucumber. As with nasturtiums, pick blooms early in the morning and then use them to brighten up a salad or add some zest to a sandwich. It’s best to harvest borage leaves when they are young for the best taste and texture.

Another way to encourage wildlife into your garden is – to do nothing. No Mow May is back this year, bringing another boost of

much-needed nectar to pollinators as gardeners throughout the UK pledge not to mow their lawns for the month. By keeping the mower locked up for another few weeks you give spring plants a chance to set seed before the first cutting, making for healthier, more diverse lawns. Figures show that if you mow

ANOTHER WAY TO ENCOURAGE WILDLIFE INTO YOUR GARDEN IS –TO DO NOTHING

less, the pollen count on your lawn can increase tenfold in the amount of nectar available to bees and other pollinators.

In addition to stocking your garden with nectar producing plants, other top jobs for gardeners this month include:

• Frost can affect many plants, and is particularly damaging to tender new growth and blossom in the spring. Protect them by fleecing, mulching or keeping them under cover.

• Earthing up potatoes and planting any still remaining. Potato plants need ‘earthing up’ as they grow, to protect early shoots from frost damage and ensure the developing potatoes aren’t exposed to light, which turns them green and poisonous.

• Planting out summer bedding at the end of the month (except in cold areas). Bedding plants provide a temporary decorative seasonal display for beds, borders, containers and hanging baskets. n

WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY:

As bulbs fade and herbaceous borders grow in leaps and bounds, it is now clear that summer is approaching. Sowing and planting out bedding can begin, depending on regional weather variations, and you can take softwood cuttings.

RHS

Many vegetable, herb and flower seeds can be directly sown outdoors, while earlier sowings can now be planted out after a period of acclimatisation (hardening off) to outside conditions. Plenty of seeds can be sown indoors too, including more tender crops like cucumber and melon. Sowing indoors will protect young plants from slugs and snails – by planting them outside when they’re large enough to handle you’ll give them a head start on predators.

Gardeners’ World

NEXT GENERATION…

Celebrating 25 years, the founders of Shackletons Home and Garden pay homage to their many loyal customers, who have made the business the success it is today.

Photography: Suzanne Skeen

Thirty years ago brothers David and Paul Shackleton took a leap of faith and decided to set up in the gardening business. With a tiny overdraft and an old van, they embarked on a journey that would see them go on to gain thousands of loyal customers with a business that has grown into a hugely popular lifestyle destination.

Five years later they acquired a former market garden nursery on the main road running through Chatburn, with hopes of turning it into a modest enterprise based on their gardening and plant expertise. They had a shared vision to open a garden centre with unbeatable value and customer service at its heart.

Putting all their energy and knowledge into the fledgling business, the brothers did their research and listened to their growing clientele.

Fast forward two-and-half decades later and Shackletons Home and Garden Centre is one of the region’s most successful retail destinations. The growth of the business from humble beginnings to a major garden and lifestyle hub, has been nothing short of remarkable, but it is clear that hard work and astute business decisions have been

crucial to that success.

While the gardening and plant side of the business has always been at its core, it soon became clear that it was very much weatherdependent, so the decision was made to diversify into lifestyle – a move that was to transform the way Shackletons operated.

Today the brothers are still as hands-on as they were all those years ago. While David deals mainly with the interiors and lifestyle aspect of Shackletons, Paul deals with the gardening and outdoor furniture – but they now have additional support in terms of a 48-strong team that includes family and loyal employees, many of whom have been with the company for many years.

Loyalty is a word that is often associated with Shackletons – the brothers realise how fortunate they are to have such a dedicated team and, just as importantly, the loyal

customers who have supported them over the years.

Still located on their original site, Shackletons now operate from a purposebuilt 46,000 sq ft showroom that houses beautiful interior room sets, soft furnishing and stylish accessories. Working with some of the UK’s most respected brands, Shackletons stock upholstery by the likes of Tetrad, Vintage and Alexander & James, along with furniture and interior accessories by Gallery Direct. For garden furniture and accessories, leading brands include, 4 Seasons, Barlow Tyrie and Lifestylegarden.

Over the years, as the business has grown, Paul, David and sister Kirsti have kept constantly ahead of the curve, putting quality at the forefront of all of their collaborations with top manufacturers.

The gradual evolution of Shackletons

Home and Garden led the brothers to set up online stores in 2007 – a move that took the business to the next level offering a national delivery service. Their price-match promise also assures customers that they are getting great value, whether that’s buying in-store or online and their 4.9 star Trust Pilot reviews confirms this.

WHILE WE HAVE WORKED HARD, WE COULDN’T HAVE DONE THIS WITHOUT THE SUPPORT OF OUR LOYAL CUSTOMERS

Online sales now match in-store trade 50/50, thanks to a 32,000 sq ft warehousing facility with stock that can be shipped anywhere in the UK within 10 days: “Having most of our products in stock makes a huge

difference,” says David.

David and Paul have always taken a relaxed approach to sales ensuring their customers are never under pressure –knowing that this ultimately works and keeps customers coming back.

“Customers visit us and experience a relaxed environment where they can browse our products, which are displayed within lifestyle settings while, our knowledgeable sales team are always on hand to give advice and ideas. This enables the customer to browse with confidence on regular visits, without feeling pressured,” adds David

Continuing to evolve, the gardening side of Shackletons is also seeing changes with a new plant manager and an enhanced customer retail experience: “We are always looking at ways we can improve the customer experience and with the plants,

Photography:

Kirsten Platt

we are mixing it up, putting beautiful plants and shrubs alongside stunning pots and containers so customers can envisage how they work together.”

Being a small independent family business, Shackletons has undoubtedly become one of the Ribble Valley’s enduring success stories and that’s largely due to understanding their clientele. Thanks to their long-standing team and family, the business also has a robust continuity that is rarely found.

“We are a relatively small business, but that makes us more agile, so we can respond quickly to trends and what our customers want,” adds David.

Working alongside David, Paul and sister Kirsti, is Paul’s wife Mel and David’s partner Julie while the next generation is also progressing through the ranks with Paul’s sons Tom and Ben now part of the team along

ALWAYS LOOKING AT WAYS IN WHICH THEY CAN PROGRESS, LAST YEAR THE BROTHERS LAUNCHED AN ADDITIONAL 10,000 SQ FT MILL SPACE IN A PARTNERSHIP WITH REDBRICK IN BATLEY

with David’s son Alastair.

This next generation of Shackletons are keen to learn and bring fresh, innovative ideas to the business – just as founders Paul and David did all those years ago.

Always looking at ways in which they can progress, last year the Operations Manager, Tom, whom has worked with the brothers for over 17 years, project managed the launch of an additional 10,000 sq ft mill space in a partnership with Redbrick in Batley, where coincidentally, the brothers’ grandparents were originally from.

The collaboration is a perfect fit, with Shackletons core ethos of quality and

customer service dovetailing neatly with Redbrick, which is one of the UK’s largest furniture and home accessory outlets outside of London.

Super-excited about their grand entrance into West Yorkshire, Shackletons join 40 plus curated stores in Redbrick mill which takes visitors on a fascinating journey through design history and innovation: “It’s a massive set up and it’s going really well for us,” adds David.

While this is Shackletons first foray out of the Ribble Valley, it has been an interesting new development for the brothers who have high hopes for the future. They have

ambitions to extend their present Ribble Valley premises onto adjacent land where it is hoped another lifestyle retail space will be created along with the potential to make the popular Pavilion Café larger.

Never standing still, this is all part of the evolution of Shackletons but the brothers don’t take anything for granted. Their customers take priority along with quality and value –and as their journey continues, this ethos remains at the heart of Shackletons Home and Garden: “We have so much respect for our customers and we are so grateful to them. While we have worked hard, we couldn’t have done this without their support.” n

Home & Garden

Clitheroe Road, Chatburn BB7 4JY 01200 441230

shackletonsonline.co.uk

Shackletons

Distinctively Designed & Manufactured

Established in the early 1990’s, Kitchen Flair today remains a family run business, proud to continue building relationships with our customers that span generations. Our reputation is built on our passion for quality craftmanship and attention to detail, for a design that is individually yours.

A Legacy of Quality

Style continually moves on but we remain committed to the same principles that led us to start manufacturing all those years ago - the highest quality, innovation and above all, honest service.

Fisherman’s smock £54 thenauticalcompany.com

CASUAL APPROACH

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

Abespoke 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

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 30th June 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

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.

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

ENJOY THE GREAT OUTDOORS IN STYLE

Long-standing store Vareys Town and Country care passionately about providing excellent customer service and only selling high quality products to enjoy every aspect of country life, writes Gail Bailey. Photography: Kirsten Platt

Vareys Town & Country has been established in Clitheroe for over 60 years following founder Ken Varey opening the store in 1962. Since then, the store continued to evolve and when Kevin Horkin bought the business in 1997, it has continued to offer only the very best quality outdoor country wear: “We constantly evolve to meet customers changing needs,” explains Kevin. “The store continues to retail all the premium brands we are renowned for, but with lots of new and exciting ranges being introduced all the time – many exclusive to Vareys.”

The store moved from its original location in the old cornmill by Clitheroe Market three years ago and is now in the wonderful old Yorkshire Bank building spread over three floors. Kevin says: “Although we remain a small, independent retailer having three floors means we carry a large stock range and

aim to always have the right size or colourway available. It is especially true of our footwear ranges – and we carry a variety of different sizes and styles.”

As we head into the summer months, and thoughts turn to spending more time in the countryside – Vareys Town and Country is the perfect place for everything outdoors.

R M Williams

“This is a brand-new range for us,” Kevin says. “R M Williams is one of the best-known and best-loved boot brands in the world. This Australian range isn’t crafted for a day, or a season – they’re crafted for life!” This is a really popular, premium product and Vareys will be lucky enough to stock the entire range from August this year.”

Dubarry

“Here at Vareys we are proud to stock Dubarry products. From boots and deck shoes to shirts,

coats and bags, we have a great selection for you to choose from,” Kevin adds. Dubarry shoes and boots are created from raw materials especially selected for their strength and appearance, ensuring the perfect combination of function and form in every item.

Didriksons

“This fabulous Swedish company was founded over 100 years ago with a simple philosophy –not to challenge the elements, but to adapt to them!” says Kevin. “They are Scandinavia’s leading brand for functional, stylish and sustainable jackets and at Vareys we are proud to stock the range in some of their wonderful pastel shades, including the waterproof jackets and parkas for which Didriksons are renowned.”

Schöffel

Schöffel are a brand that lives and breathes the countryside – the landscapes, the weather, the wildlife and the people. The range combines innovation and tradition to engineer the best clothing for those who share this passion for the outdoors: “Every brand has a ‘hero-piece’,” explains Kevin. “And for Schöffel it’s their famous gilet. One of our best-selling items in the store – and as original and iconic as when it was first introduced more than 27 years ago.”

Barbour

“Vareys supply a wide range of Barbour products: “They are still our number one brand, and their wax jacket is as famous now as it was when it was first introduced – it continues to be a modern wardrobe staple due to its timeless style and function.” Barbour is all about different levels and layers and Vareys stock everything from the baseball caps to shooting jackets – and even a range for your four-legged friend!

Aigle

Vareys Town & Country has always been the go-to place in the Ribble Valley for walking footwear including boots, wellies and sandals and they continue to stock only the very best ranges in terms of style, functionality and durability: “Aigle continues to be one of our top selling ranges,” Kevin says. “They are

masters in rubber craftsmanship and still hand finish their boots in France today. Aigle wellingtons are perfect for those who need to wear their boots every day. They have an anti-fatigue design and include a reverse grip, so have style, safety and comfort at their core.” An added benefit of these famous rubber boots is being lined with neoprene enabling them to keep you cool in summer and warm in winter – perfect!

THE STORE CONTINUES TO RETAIL ALL THE PREMIUM BRANDS FOR WHICH WE ARE RENOWNED, BUT WITH LOTS OF NEW AND EXCITING RANGES BEING INTRODUCED ALL THE TIME

Meindl Berghaus & Merrell

Vareys is your place to shop for the innovative Meindl range, Berghaus – who focus on being weatherproof, comfortable, durable, and of course Merrell who are famous for reliable footwear for walking and mountaineering –along with their famous walking sandals.

With a new clearance outlet in their original Clitheroe premises, Vareys continues to expand and are aiming for an August opening for their exciting new store in Lytham: “We don’t stand still,” Kevin says. “Alongside our shops we are also a key player at the Royal Lancashire Show. It’s the second largest agricultural fair in the country and this year I’m proud to be the President.” n

Vareys Town & Country 2 Market Place

COLOUR POP

The team at Scruples 1984 continue to extend their collaborations with world-leading fashion labels. Photography: Kirsten Platt

As one of the leading menswear retailers in the region, Scruples 1984 is looking forward to a summer filled with colour and style.

The Barrowford store is popping with a palette of vivid brights and subtle pastels, as store manager Tom Orrell explains: “It’s definitely all about pop colours – something that will give an outfit the real wow factor! The variation

of colour this season is pretty wild from bright orange, raspberry and yellow to pale pink, pastel blue and variations in neutral tones –beiges and a solid favourite, camel – the choice is amazing! However, one thing’s for sure our customers will definitely find a colour to suit them this summer.”

Accessories can also add a splash of colour to an outfit and Scruples has a wonderful collection of colourful ties from Eton, pocket

handkerchiefs and quirky belts by Elliott Rhodes, along with bespoke accessories by silk specialist Italo Ferretti – tie and handkerchief combinations that really elevate the outfit and matching braces too!

Staying on the theme of colour, Tom and founder Stephen Collins, recently welcomed regular customer John Rogerson to the store:

“John is a long-standing friend of Stephen and he loves to be dressed to the nines. He always goes down the bespoke route as he likes the fit, plus it really allows him to capture his personality in what he’s wearing – he always looks fantastic!” says Tom.

“Readers can see in this issue of Live Ribble Valley, that John opted for colour with a real pop!”

THE

ZEGNA AND

DITA BRANDS ARE MASSIVE FOR US AS THEY’RE SUCH BIG NAMES

With his latest made-to-measure jacket, John chose a gorgeous 100 per cent raw cashmere cloth from world-leading Italian brand Loro Piana in a stylish shade of orange: “It was one of the first jackets we did with Loro Piana’s raw cashmere collection – since then the brand has sky-rocketed in store over the last few seasons, particularly made to measure.

“John wanted something that would be really versatile – something he would wear in summer and winter to maximise wearability,” adds Tom.

Made in-house at Scruples, the jacket has a contrasting skull and roses lining in orange and beige: “John is absolutely thrilled with the jacket that can be dressed up or dressed down with jeans. When we make a bespoke jacket our customers also get a bespoke Eton shirt and John chose a white shirt with orange buttons – he was delighted with it!”

Loro Piana’s premium cloths, including their stunning cashmere collection, offer clientele diversity – jackets can be made for warmth in winter and to keep cool in summer: “We are continually extending the collection and there is a huge variation in colours too so our clients have a fabulous choice of options

when designing their perfect jacket. They can opt for contrast stitching, buttons and different styles of lapel.”

Leading Italian suiting brand Canali has also remerged at Scruples 1984 as a strong contender in the style stakes with sharp tailoring, stylish footwear and superior shirts: “We have extended the Canali collection as our customers really like it –Canali represents great styling and is a real elevation of our in-store offer.”

Italian giant Pal Zileri have also been re-establishing their position in the casual

popular choice for those wanting smart made-to-measure: “We have had some fabulously colourful check jackets –lightweight and unstructured that are perfect for summer.”

Having the likes of wonder-brands such as Loro Piana and Canali on board has meant that Scruples 1984 has attracted the attention of other global names, keen on collaborating with the Barrowford store, as Tom explains: “We have brought in a good number of top-end brands which are bringing in a lot more customers.

WITH NEW INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATIONS, IT HAS CHANGED THE WAY WE BUY AND HAS SUBSTANTIALLY ELEVATED OUR COLLECTIONS

menswear market with popular one-off pieces like their recent orange bomber: “That was really different,” recalls Tom. “The brand has really got its own identity and we are really looking to grow it. It gives customers a luxury garment at the right price point.”

Sitting alongside bespoke Canali and Pal Zileri, Scruples’ own-brand tailoring label Rupert Totti continues to thrive and is a

“When we bring these worldwide labels in, we’re attracting clientele who have been buying the brand from Harrods for years.”

With summer sun on the horizon, Scruples 1984 have been a trusted Tom Ford stockist for a while now and similarly other leading eyewear brands have followed suit. Scruples have introduced Zegna to their customers and the store is the only independent menswear retailer in the UK to stock DITA

eyewear: “The Zegna and Dita brands are massive for us as they’re such big names.

“Dita eyewear is hand-engineered in Japan and the collection is really varied – some are extensively constructed and quite daring, others are much softer in style. It’s a really exciting collection that we are proud to host.”

Bringing global labels to Scruples 1984 has been key to the evolution of this popular menswear store which continues to go from strength to strength with new international collaborations: “It has changed the way we buy and has substantially elevated our collections.” n

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

scruplesmenswear.co.uk

@scruplesmenswear

@scruplesmens

BESPOKE TAILORS

Wherever

MEN HAVE FOOT PROBLEMS TOO…

It’s not only women who suffer from bunions and hammer toes, not to mention arthritis, plantar fasciitis and Morton’s neuroma. Visit fitright footwear and let us help you find comfortable shoes that fit. Photography: Kirsten Platt

It doesn’t matter if you are male or female. If your feet are hurting, they are trying to tell you something. In fact, if you are experiencing any problems with your knees or hips there could also be a problem with your feet (that you aren’t aware of) that is causing it.

Fitright footwear is no ordinary shoe shop. We offer an appointment only, personal shoe measuring and fitting service that cannot be found in any high street shoe shop.

Feet are as individual as our fingerprints. Our extensive and outstanding range of footwear for men and women includes a variety of brands and styles which come in different widths, depths and sizes that stretch from 3 to 14 to accommodate feet of all shapes.

There is no such thing as a standard fit when it comes to footwear. Like clothing every

brand fits differently and within the brand, varying styles fit differently too. Feet change as we get older. You may be wearing the same shoes now as you did five or 10 years ago –but are they really the correct fit anymore?

It’s so important to go somewhere where you can be measured and try shoes on and by visiting fitright footwear you not only get to try a fabulous selection of footwear, you also get a one-to-one unique experience, footwear advice, in-depth product knowledge and honesty.

Our appointment system is designed to provide our customers with an uninterrupted, calm, relaxing and stress-free environment where customers can take their time to try on and choose the right footwear.

Correctly fitting shoes won’t be a cure for many foot problems, but they go a long way to relieving painful feet and keeping us moving.

If your feet are hurting or your shoes aren’t as comfortable as they should be, why don’t you book an appointment to come and see us? There is no charge for our measuring and fitting service and no obligation to buy, but you can be sure if you do, your footwear will fit right. n

Appointments only:

Available Wednesday to Saturday between 10am and 5pm

Fitright Footwear

32D King Street, Clitheroe BB7 2EP 01200 425399

clitheroe@fitrightfootwear.co.uk

Are they still long, deep or wide enough? Do they fit just because they have simply stretched to the shape of your feet? When was the last time you had your feet measured? Wearing shoes that do not fit correctly can be extremely damaging to your feet and general wellbeing.

3 Bower Road, Harrogate HG1 1BB 01423 561172

harrogate@fitrightfootwear.co.uk

fitrightfootwear.co.uk

comfort.fit.style

_fitright

HEATH MOISTURISER £15

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ESPA AGE REBEL EYE

HYDRATOR MEN £38

A deeply nourishing and hydrating eye cream that supports the skin’s natural moisture barrier, while minimising the appearance of fine lines. gilpin.co.uk

ESPA BALANCING

HYDRATOR MEN £35

DAIMON BARBER REMEDY WAX £36.95

One hundred per cent vegan and made from premium natural plant wax, this can be used to add texture and control. Other benefits include hair hydration, moisture retention as well as scalp cleansing. daimonbarber.com

HELLO HANDSOME!

From soothing skin serums to toning tea mists, these luxurious men’s products help hydrate, smooth and nourish

A lightweight, long-lasting hydrator with aloe and birch, leaves skin feeling nourished and soothed with moisture.

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Gilpin Hotel and Lake House Crook Road Windermere 015394 88818 gilpin.co.uk

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

OBAYATY RETOUCH STICK £43

The creamy concealer stick blends easily into the skin. Perfect for the eye area to cover dark circles or for blemishes. obayaty.com

SISLEYUM FOR MEN GLOBAL REVITALIZER £235

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

OBAYATY ANTI-ROUGE LIP BALM £34

With colour correcting pigments to tone down red lips, dark marks or hyperpigmentation, this features a blend of CBD, shea butter and green tea extract to sooth, nourish and moisturise dry lips. obayaty.com

DAIMON BARBER DAY & NIGHT SERUM £52

With ceramide complex to protect the skin and Filagrinol to repair skin at night. daimonbarber.com

DR BARBARA STURM FACE CREAM MEN £145

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

A refreshing mist that

and tones for an all-day healthy complexion. uk.elemis.com

DERMATOLOGY DOUBLE ACT

Two local doctors, with a passion for the health of people’s skin, are doubling down on the safe and effective removal of worrisome lumps and bumps

As we age, the smooth skin of childhood gives way to all sorts of mysterious lumps and bumps. Most are cosmetic rather than an indication of a more serious health issue, but they can still cause concern because of how they look or feel.

With minor skin blemish removal no longer available on the NHS, a growing number of people are having them safely removed at private clinics such as Discover Laser Medical Skin Clinic based at Crow Wood Resort, where two of Lancashire’s leading skin-health experts are providing a life-changing local service for people with worrying skin abnormalities.

Doctor Miguel Montero, a Burnley GP for many years, has been the Director and Lead Practitioner at Discover Laser since 2007.

Doctor Arif Aslam, a highly-regarded Consultant Dermatologist, spent several years working internationally due to the high demand for his specialist surgical skills before coming home to Burnley.

They joined forces in 2020 to provide advanced dermatology services locally.

“I’ve diagnosed and treated noncancerous lesions for many years in my clinic and in the NHS,” says Dr Montero. “Patients with more serious abnormalities previously required a referral to a specialist

A COMFORTABLE AND LOW STRESS EXPERIENCE FROM START TO FINISH. THE SUPPORT BOTH PRE AND POST SURGERY PLUS THE WAY MY WIFE AND I WERE LOOKED AFTER ON THE DAY WAS EXEMPLARY.

ROBERT DE MARTINO GOOGLE REVIEW

dermatologist, which can be a lengthy and worrying process. So, when I heard Arif was returning to the UK and looking to set up his own practice, I was straight on the phone,” says Miguel.

“Miguel’s phone call came at the perfect time,” commented Dr Aslam. “It’s been my ambition to set up a clinic o ering advanced dermatology services in my home town, and what better place than Miguel’s beautiful clinic within Crow Wood Resort.

“It was clear our skills would complement each other perfectly, and having known each other for many years, we knew we’d work well together.”

“Lesion removal is di cult to obtain via the NHS, and wait times for skin cancer surgery can be long,” says Miguel.

“Even if people get to see their GP, few have a dermatology speciality, and sadly some serious cases get missed or caught too late.

“We are helping an increasing number of people from Lancashire and beyond, giving them safe, fast and e ective private dermatology treatment that eliminates unnecessary wait times and worry.”

In addition to Dr Montero’s non-cancerous blemish removal, rosacea, acne and scarring treatments, Dr Aslam is available for Mohs surgery for common skin cancers.

This dermatology duo is providing cutting-edge and life-changing services right on our doorstep. ■

Start your journey to skin health with a Dermatology Consultation - to book call Discover Laser on 01282 420886 To find out more about treatment visit: www.discoverlaser.co.uk

• Non-cancerous and cancerous blemish removal

• Mohs surgery for common skin cancers

• Adult acne and rosacea

DR MIGUEL MONTERO DR ARIF ASLAM

SKIN TAGS HAEMANGIOMA SEBORRHOEIC KERATOSES

MOLES CHERRY ANGIOMAS XANTHELASMA

can strain personal and professional relationships. The differences in how emotions are dealt with in relationships is often the crux of the problem.

• Physical health concerns: Chronic suppression of emotions has been linked to physical health problems like high blood pressure, weakened immune system and gastrointestinal issues.

• Limited coping skills: When emotions are consistently suppressed, individuals may lack effective coping mechanisms to deal with life’s challenges. This can lead to maladaptive behaviours such as substance abuse or risky behaviour. From this can develop a feeling of weakness and low self-esteem, all adding to the issue.

• Loneliness and isolation: Feeling unable to express emotions openly may lead

MIND MATTERS

Fexperiences and expresses emotions differently, regardless of gender. Socialisation, upbringing and cultural factors all have a significant role in shaping how individuals express their emotions.

THE IMPACT OF NOT SHOWING EMOTION CAN BE DETRIMENTAL TO BOTH MENTAL AND PHYSICAL WELL-BEING

to a sense of isolation and loneliness, as individuals may believe they cannot connect with others on a deeper level. They often feel misunderstood, which is a consequence of not having the ability to share thoughts, fears and feelings. Overall, the impact of not showing emotion can be detrimental to both mental and physical well-being, highlighting the importance of fostering a culture that encourages emotional expression and support for all individuals, regardless of gender.

Big boys don’t cry! Well, in my opinion they should. Sayings like that cause more issues with mental health in men than anything else I come across, writes therapeutic coach Lynn Scholes To find out more contact Lynn on 07753 579745 or go

eelings are meant to be felt and the fact that so many men feel compelled or are programmed to push feelings aside and ignore them, often creates major issues in relationships and frustrations in other situations. The idea that men are programmed not to express emotion is a societal one, not a biological one. Traditional gender norms often dictate that men should be strong, stoic and not show vulnerability. However, it is essential to recognise that everyone

The impact of not showing emotion or suppressing emotion, can vary from person to person and depend on many of the factors mentioned. However, some common consequences for men who suppress their emotions often include the following:

• Mental health issues: Bottling up emotions can lead to increased stress, anxiety and depression. Without healthy outlets for expression, emotional struggles can intensify over time.

• Difficulty in relationships: Suppressing emotions can hinder meaningful connections with others, as it may be challenging to communicate feelings and understand those of others. This

Why can’t there be a balance? Well, the good news is – there can be. Driven by the need for real change and recognising their challenges with dealing with emotion, men reach out for help and can come to understand that expressing emotion and dealing with emotion is something they can learn how to do. The brain is amazing and through neuroplasticity we can demonstrate the positive effect of ‘feeling the feelings’, which in turn makes it easier going forward. So many relationships would be saved if women understood why men act the way they do and if men understood that it doesn’t have to be that way. n

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

MORE THAN SKIN DEEP

The latest non-invasive treatments hold the secret to naturally youthful skin and revitalised self-esteem. Emma Pearce, the wonderworker behind EMA Skin Aesthetics, puts a warm, personal emphasis on all her inspirational treatments, writes Kate Bowyer

It’s the self-care paradox –just when we recognise we would benefit and that we deserve a little help to boost what we see in the mirror, we feel inside the fear of losing something in us. And, it stops us in our tracks. Within two steps of entering Emma Pearce’s haven, upstairs at Toni & Guy in Preston’s Fishergate, all my fears melt away.

The richly warm décor, comfortable seating and serene atmosphere match Emma’s welcoming smile. Framed qualifications and articles attest to her 20 years in aesthetic skincare, but where others might be a name above the door, only Emma keeps it hands-on.

EMA remains purely Emma, right down to bearing her name –Emma Marie Angela (EMA).

“Everyone’s skin, lifestyle and needs are different,” says Emma.

and expertise, coupled with the most advanced non-invasive clinical grade skincare, ensures each client receives their own personalised, unique treatment plan through to their desired results.”

Emma guides me through two pioneering treatments that deliver immediate results, revolutionarily more natural, less invasive and longer-lasting than wrinkle-smoothing injections.

NON-SURGICAL FACELIFT

The Non-Surgical Facelift uses electromagnetic field technology to stimulate facial muscles and thermal technology radio frequencies to increase collagen and elastin. Years-lasting results can smooth frown and smile lines, crow’s feet and drooping eyelids, sagging cheeks, jowls and neck.

PLASMA PEN

The Plasma Pen uses electrostatic energy to stimulate deep-cell regeneration, collagen and elastin production, restoring skin elasticity, transforming droopy lines and wrinkles into firmer skin. Applications extend to scar tissue, acne scarring and tummy lift.

Emma’s wide range of personalised treatments also include Morpheus 8, Ultrasound 7D, Hya Pen, mesotherapy, radio frequency, laser hair removal, facial and body fat removal, hair restoration and many, magically more. n

Returning from the apex of a successful career in the USA to set up EMA Skin Aesthetics in 2016, there remains no dilution of her dedicated personal attention. No staff, trainees or hired chairs,

“My aim is enabling everyone to look and feel blissfully confident about their appearance, starting by providing a bespoke and private experience in a relaxing environment.

Call Emma now on 07547802062 for a complementary consultation to rediscover a more youthful you, that runs more than skin deep.

“My understanding, experience

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EMA Skin Aesthetics Ltd

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

07547 802062

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

TAKING YOUR BODY TO A CALMER SPACE…

Somatic therapist, ballet, yoga and contemporary movement professional Suzanne Astley AISTD, Dip Arts, BA Hons, QTS, MA, explains how you can enhance wellbeing through mindful breathing and body work

Having worked at the highest level with the Royal Academy of Dance, Suzanne Astley of Mindful Movement has brought her unique skillset to the Ribble Valley where she is extending her existing classes in Ribchester to a studio in Whalley.

Physiotherapist professional Jane Connolly has invited Suzanne to run classes at Whalley Physiotherapy’s premises at Victory House on The Sidings, a move that will see Suzanne hold Somatic movement classes, barre and

MINDFUL MOVEMENT CLASSES

Whalley Physiotherapy, Victory House, The Sidings, Whalley

SOMATIC MOVEMENT CLASSES

Tuesday & Thursday: 9.45am–10.45am Thursday: 5.30pm–6.30pm & 6.30pm–7.30pm BARRE & CORE CLASSES

Tuesday & Thursday: 11am–12 noon

REHAB MOVEMENT THERAPY Wednesday: 1pm –2pm

ONE-TO-ONE SOMATIC MOVEMENT BY APPOINTMENT

core sessions and rehab movement therapy.

Jane says: I’ve known Suzanne for a long time and we are looking forward to her bringing her many years of professional experience to Whalley Physiotherapy.”

Suzanne, who also works as a lecturer in somatic therapy, uses her vast experience to create movement therapy that helps clients learn how to move in a better way.

Having helped rehabilitate people with serious injury, back and hip pain and musculoskeletal problems, Suzanne explains: “Somatics improves posture and alignment, core stability as well as building strength and flexibility.

“My work helps support a healthy approach

to life through exercise, nutrition and positive habits.”

Through controlled breathing and movement, classes with Suzanne are both relaxing and rejuvenating.

“Mindful movement helps calm the nervous system to take you out of fight or flight mode into a much calmer space. It’s a chance to slow down and notice your body in a safe, non-judgmental environment.”

SUZANNE’S CLASSES LEAVE YOU FEELING REJUVENATED AND RELAXED AND ALWAYS HAPPIER. THE CLASSES EMPOWER YOU, MAKE YOU FITTER AND MORE FLEXIBLE AND GIVE YOU THE KNOWLEDGE TO USE YOUR BODY WELL

With her wide-ranging experience in teaching, performance and practices such as the Feldenkrais method, Alexander technique, pilates, yoga and ballet, Suzanne works with those new to therapeutic movement as well as those who have extensive experience.

Mindful Movement classes are kept small and Suzanne also offers one-to-one sessions and retreats.

“Somatics uses dance movement therapy that brings our entire body and mind into balance and it has the potential to support our overall health,” says Suzanne, who recently held a highly acclaimed workshop on the menopause, extolling the benefits of diet and gentle weight-bearing exercise to increase bone density and enhance health and wellbeing. n

To find out more about Suzanne’s one-to-one sessions or classes, go to the Mindful Movement website. No experience is necessary.

MINDFUL MOVEMENT CLASSES

Fuelmizas, Bee Mill, Preston Road, Ribchester

SOMATIC YOGA CLASSES

Tuesday: 6pm–7pm Saturday: 10am–11am

ADULT BALLET

Wednesday: 6.45pm–7.45pm

Mindful Movement

Fuelmizas, Bee Mill

Preston Road, Ribchester PR3 3XJ

Victory House, The Sidings Whalley BB7 9SE

07738 405277

suzanneastley@hotmail.com mindfulmovementbysue.co.uk

Photography: Kirsten Platt

ARE YOU OVERWEIGHT, AND STRUGGLING WITH DIETS?

RejuvaMed’s CQC-approved slimming clinic can help

Are you heading towards summer and worrying about how you’ll look in your summer wardrobe? Have you tried multiple diets, but find that you can’t shift excess weight, or if you do it all comes back on again?

RejuvaMed offers a multidisciplinary approach to weight loss via our medical weight loss programme. The first step is a detailed consultation with RejuvaMed’s medical director Dr Grant, who will recommend suitable treatment options for you. These may include support from our dietician, Mairi, and the prescription of medication which is self-injected weekly, which suppresses the appetite and reduces calorie intake. He will also consider levels of exercise.

Please be aware that any practitioner offering medication to assist with weight loss must be registered with the CQC, to

ensure that your treatment programme is safe.

Once you have lost those inches you may find that you have stubborn pockets of fat, or loose skin, that would benefit from body sculpting. RejuvaMed offers state-of-the-art treatments including Morpheus8 and 3D lipo which can help get your body back into shape.

To arrange a weight loss consultation with Dr Grant, which can be either in clinic or by phone, please call the clinic on 01200 538668, email us at info@rejuvamed.co.uk, or book online using the QR code on this page. Choose ‘consultations’, then ‘weight loss consultation with Dr Grant’.

We look forward to helping you in your weight loss journey! n

ARE YOU SUFFERING WITH SYMPTOMS OF THE MENOPAUSE?

RejuvaMed offers personally tailored bioidentical HRT

With the NHS now struggling to provide the routine treatments and appointments needed by women going through the menopause, RejuvaMed Health & Wellness can help.

Experienced local GP Dr Helen is part of the team and specialises in women’s health.

RejuvaMed was the first clinic in Lancashire to introduce bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), a natural, individually tailored and effective alternative to current NHS HRT treatments.

Bioidentical hormones have the same chemical structure as naturally occurring hormones, which diminish as we age. These can benefit patients who have a hormone imbalance, particularly if they have tried other hormonal medications on the NHS, including HRT and experienced unwanted side effects.

After an initial consultation, Dr Helen will carry out blood tests to pinpoint specific issues and then prescribe a personalised treatment plan that includes a tailor-made

hormone prescription. The medicines are then delivered to your home address.

BHRT can give relief from a wide range of pre-menopausal and menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, mood changes, weight gain and sleep issues. It can also help treat other hormonal imbalances such as menstrual problems, post-natal depression, osteoporosis and endometriosis.

The treatment plan includes regular follow ups and monitoring to ensure optimum results.

To arrange a consultation with Dr Helen, please call the clinic on 01200 538668, or email us at: info@rejuvamed.co.uk. n

RejuvaMed Holmes Cottage Woone Lane

Clitheroe BB7 1BG 01200 538668

info@rejuvamed.co.uk

rejuvamed.co.uk

An advanced freezing innovation that is a fast, effective, safe, new solution for removal of skin imperfections.

Cosmetic procedures on the skin are no longer being treated by many NHS doctors, the following lesions can be treated by us in the salon: Skin Tags Age Spots Pigmentation Cherry Angioma Milia Warts Veruccas

07887 922476 helencoatesbeauty helen.coatesbeauty

Headmasters Hair and Beauty, 602 Bacup Road, Waterfoot, Lancashire BB4 7EU

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MORE THAN JUST FRAGRANCE…

The

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

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

Here’s how it works:

Firstly, we smell with our brains and not with our nose. When inhaling fragrance, compounds enter the olfactory system via the nasal passage and from there directly impact the limbic system – the area of the brain dealing with emotions, memory and mood. Understanding this means we can choose fragrance to create positive changes to mood,

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

Here’s a few to get you started:

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

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

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

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

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

Peppermint: is great for headaches and nausea. So, switching your fragrances can help you close the door on work or difficult situations and establish a more relaxing environment. Melt uses many different essential oils to create their fragrances, which establishes that all-important ambience for home and work. We have a peaceful Chandlery and perfumery where you can while away an hour selecting your perfect fragrance, glass of wine in hand. We operate a ‘no rush, no push’ welcome for customers and are always delighted to talk fragrance should you wish.

To finish – here are a few fun scented snippets!

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

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

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

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

Melt

Backridge Farm Waddington BB7 3LQ 01200 443377

www.themeltco.com

/meltcandles

themeltco

@meltcandles

urgent treatments or those preferring a more flexible schedule. Private healthcare also offers access to a broader range of treatment options and specialists, including innovative treatments not widely available on the NHS.

While private healthcare is often associated with higher costs compared to NHS care, the availability of insurance options can make it more affordable.

Providers often prioritise personalised care, comfortable facilities and a more patient-centred approach because of reduced pressure. Patients may benefit from amenities such as private rooms and bathrooms, shorter hospital stays, a range of menu choices and more comprehensive follow-up care.

Treatments such as cosmetic surgery, fertility treatments and certain types of rehabilitation and physiotherapy may not be available through the NHS and so prove popular and more convenient for many.

CHOOSING PRIVATE HEALTHCARE

With a host of services available from dentistry to GPs, many people are choosing to use private healthcare for a variety of reasons including treatments not available through the National Health Service

Private healthcare in the UK plays a significant role alongside the National Health Service (NHS), offering individuals an alternative option for medical treatment and services. This sector encompasses a range of treatments provided by private hospitals, clinics, specialists and insurers, catering for those who seek faster access to healthcare, specialised treatments or enhanced amenities.

Services encompass a wide array of offerings,

including private hospitals, diagnostic and treatment centres, dentists, physiotherapists, counselling services, specialist consultations, elective surgeries and more. Patients can access a range of medical services outside of the NHS, paying either through private health insurance or out-of-pocket.

PRIVATE HEALTHCARE IN THE UK SERVES AS A VALUABLE COMPLEMENT TO THE NHS, PROVIDING INDIVIDUALS WITH CHOICE, FLEXIBILITY AND EXPEDITED ACCESS TO MEDICAL SERVICES

One of the primary benefits of private healthcare is shorter waiting times for consultations, tests and procedures compared to the NHS. This can be particularly advantageous for individuals seeking non-

Private services in the UK often collaborate with the NHS through partnership agreements, sharing resources, facilities and expertise. This integration helps alleviate the strain on the NHS and can provide additional options for patients requiring specialised care.

The private sector in the UK is evolving, driven by advancements in medical technology, changing patient preferences and regulatory developments. Digital health solutions and personalised medicine are likely to shape the future landscape of private healthcare, offering new opportunities for patient care and service delivery.

In the UK private healthcare serves as a valuable complement to the NHS, providing individuals with choice, flexibility and expedited access to medical services. While it presents certain advantages and challenges, the private healthcare sector continues to play a vital role in meeting the diverse healthcare needs of the population. n

CONTINUITY & CARE

Long waiting times to see an NHS GP and lack of continuity, has prompted a local doctor to join forces with a private health care group to give patients swift access to expert medical care and diagnostic equipment

Working both privately and for the NHS, Dr Nazneen Begum believes that firstclass healthcare should be available to all.

With current waiting times to see your NHS GP lengthy, some patients are having to wait weeks to book a face-to-face appointment. As a result, Dr Begum is now holding private, regular surgeries at Blackburn’s Beardwood Hospital, part of Circle Health Group, giving patients access to swift and thorough GP consultations.

“Accessing your regular NHS GP has become problematic and if you do manage to see a doctor, continuity is also a problem,” says Dr Begum, who trained at Birmingham Medical School and qualified as a GP in 2008.

With a wealth of experience in general practice, she also specialises in complex diabetes cases, women’s health, respiratory

and cardio-vascular diseases, fits and removes contraceptive implants, insurance forms, medicals and general health checks.

Joining Beardwood Hospital in March this year, she is available for general consultations twice a week giving patients speedy access to appointments and the latest state-of-the-art

I THINK IT’S INCREDIBLY IMPORTANT THAT GPS GET TO KNOW THEIR PATIENTS, IT MAKES A HUGE DIFFERENCE

diagnostic equipment at the hospital.

“We have everything available here on site, that’s why I was keen to work with Beardwood,” says Dr Begum. “If a patient has an injury we can x-ray them here, we can refer patients for an MRI scan on site, take bloods – it’s ideal as the results come back extremely quickly.

“We also work alongside all the medical consultants here at the hospital as well as other specialists including physiotherapists, so patients have quick access to them too.

“We have a reception, a patient liaison team and an efficient booking system so all patients have a good experience when they come to Beardwood. It also means that if patients need a repeat appointment, there is assured continuity.

“I think it’s incredibly important that GPs get to know their patients, it makes a huge difference. The standard consulting time for a GP in the NHS is ten minutes and that’s not enough, they just don’t have the time,” says Dr Begum, who sets aside 30 minutes for each consultation.

“When I have a consultation, I get to know a patient’s background, it’s a full MOT.”

When Dr Begum sees a private patient she is also able to share information with a patient’s NHS GP, resulting in a ‘joined-up’, efficient blend of private and NHS treatment.

Numerous finance options are available in private health – patients can self-fund, they may have private healthcare insurance or they can choose flexible payment options. n

To find out more about Dr Begum’s GP services go to the Beardwood Hospital Circle Health Group website, where you can book an appointment online, or take a look at Dr Begum’s website.

Beardwood Hospital – Circle Health Group

Preston New Road

Blackburn BB2 7AE

customerserviceBeardwood @circlehealthgroup.co.uk circlehealthgroup.co.uk nbprivategpclinic.co.uk

FIRST CLASS CARE AS STANDARD

Ramsay Health Care is a prominent health provider with three well established hospitals in Lancashire, committed to delivering high-quality medical services and patient-centred care

Ramsay Health Care Ltd. operates hospitals and healthcare services across eight countries and is celebrating its 60th anniversary in global expertise this year.

Closer to home, there are three hospitals each with their own area of expertise, offering a wide range of surgical and medical treatments. The hospitals boast modern facilities, highly experienced and dedicated consultants with a skilled clinical team focused on delivering exceptional patient outcomes.

Buckshaw Hospital is a new purpose-built diagnostic centre, based in Chorley with a dedicated radiology department including onsite MRI, CT and mammography facilities. There is a focus on treatments such as urology, ENT and endoscopic procedures.

The long-established Fulwood Hall Hospital in Preston, specialises in a number of surgical procedures, including orthopaedics (hip,

knee, shoulder, hand and wrist, foot and ankle), general surgery, spinal, ophthalmology and urology.

Independent patient satisfaction surveys show that 99 per cent of patients would recommend the hospital to family and friends.

THERE ARE PLANS UNDERWAY TO INVEST FURTHER ACROSS THE THREE HOSPITALS IN THE COMING MONTHS

The Grade I listed Euxton Hall Hospital in Chorley offers 32 en-suite rooms and delivers treatments for orthopaedics, general surgery and plastics in a beautiful setting.

Hospital Director, Fiona Thornhill, said: “We have had a very exciting year with significant investment at Fulwood Hall Hospital with more than £1m spent on improving the environment for patients,

staff and our consultants. This has meant funding new theatre kit, upgraded patient bedrooms, staff facilities and creating additional space to support our continued growth. There are plans underway to invest further across the three hospitals in the coming months.

“We are also excited to announce a new ground-breaking treatment, Aquablation Therapy, which be available at Fulwood Hall Hospital from June 2024. This is an advanced robotic treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia, for men suffering from a benign enlarged prostate.

It is estimated that one in two men aged between 51 and 60 have lower urinary tract symptoms associated with enlarged prostate and 99 per cent of men say it impacts their quality of life. Having access to this treatment in Preston will benefit many.

Ramsay Health is built on a principle of ‘People Caring for People’ and that is evident in staff satisfaction and positive reviews from patients. Fiona added: “Our people are amazing. They are here because they want to deliver a high-level of care to our patients. We are passionate about our fantastic team. If our people are happy, our patients are happy.”

As Ramsay Health Care continues to enhance its services across the North West, patients can expect to receive personalised care and access to new and innovative treatments, delivered with compassion and integrity. n

ramsayhealth.co.uk

CLOSER TO NATURE

Biomimetic materials that literally mimic nature, are revolutionising dentistry and here in the Ribble Valley, one forward-thinking practice is one of the leading pioneers of this technique

Always keeping ahead of the industry, leading private dental practice Renovo is one of the first practices in the UK that has fully adopted the very latest techniques that can successfully restore teeth by using materials that mimic nature and the natural tooth. Biomimetic dentistry is revolutionising the way dentists can restore and repair teeth as

Dr Usman Riaz of Ribble Valley-based Renovo explains: “This is micro-invasive dentistry. We can preserve as much of the tooth structure as possible by using scientifically developed, bio-compatible metal-free materials that act, feel and look just like our natural teeth.”

AVOIDING ROOT CANALS

“Biomimetic dentistry can help reduce your need for root canal therapy by up to 90 per cent. With immediate dentin sealing and resin coating, biomimetic dentistry gives pulps a vital chance to heal, helping maintain their natural resilience and extend their life. This is at the forefront of our core values,” adds Dr Riaz.

These latest advances in dental technology are set to change the way we view restorative dentistry. For teeth that have been damaged, porcelain crowns and veneers have, in the past, been the solution. However, more recent developments in bonding technology and the bio-materials used, have given dentists a new alternative, usually with no tooth removal.

PREDICTABLE OUTCOMES AND PAIN-FREE LONGERLASTING TEETH

Biomimetic restorations treat the causes of symptoms (cracks or caries near the pulp) so they do not result in sensitivity or pain after restoration: “Biomimetic techniques also restore the tooth in a way that mimics a tooth’s natural structure, preventing cracks around the restoration. Finally, the advanced adhesive techniques used in a biomimetic restoration have been shown to keep a restoration bonded for over 20 years, and counting, so the days of crowns or fillings falling out can be a thing of the past!”

These restorative materials that mimic nature, are not only perfect for aesthetically restoring teeth but they also help preserve and strengthen the natural tooth structure.

SCIENCE-BACKED DENTAL TREATMENT

Biomimetic dentistry is more technique sensitive and requires more detailed steps than traditional restorative practices. With Renovo’s approach, the dentists and the whole clinical team understand the science, or what we call the ‘why’ behind each step in their biomimetic restoration. The systematic steps

take the guesswork out of treatment planning, leaving clinicians and patients feeling confident in every restoration.

IMPROVED AESTHETICS

“Biomimetic dentistry is general dentistry and can be applied to every case we see at Renovo. The concepts of conserving tooth structure, saving pulps and superior adhesion will serve as a more predictable foundation of our work,” explains Dr Riaz. “We can change, reshape and enhance teeth with these new materials. The biomimetic materials are also reinforcing teeth – it is a totally different concept to what we have seen previously.”

Adopting the latest biomimetic philosophies and having all the specialist techniques and materials available to them, the dentists at Renovo are pioneering in

their unique approach.

“Specialist techniques are used in biomimetic dentistry and the whole team have had advanced training,” says Dr Riaz. “For us, using non-invasive techniques and preserving teeth has always been something

WE GET OPTIMAL RESULTS WITH ZERO TOOTH REMOVAL AND THAT’S WHY THE BIOMIMETIC APPROACH IS SO POPULAR

we routinely believe in and practice, so biomimetic dentistry sits really well with that belief.

“It’s the way dentistry should be done –to save and conserve teeth has always been our gold standard.”

ZERO TOOTH LOSS MAXIMUM AESTHETICS

For nervous patients the biomimetic approach revolutionises the way they view a dental appointment: “For those people, this is an amazing development as the approach is to conserve tooth tissue using minimally invasive techniques. No anaesthetic is needed as there is zero tooth removal.”

While biomimetic dentistry can help to naturally strengthen and restore damaged teeth, it is also perfect for cosmetic procedures: “From a cosmetic point of view we can improve without having to compromise, which is a very powerful concept.

“With the latest biomimetic materials, we get incredible results and in many cases, it is much quicker too, as it often involves just one visit to the dentist.

“These treatment concepts and philosophy are popular in the US and Europe, but it has taken time to develop in the UK. We have had to understand the materials and perfect new techniques so we can carry out dentistry at a different level.”

HEALTHIER TEETH HEALTHIER YOU

By removing all toxicity and inflammation from the mouth, biological dentistry helps restore vitality, balance and systemic health.

“What we put in our mouth and more importantly, the teeth themselves, has a crucial role to play in our overall health. Gut health begins in the mouth. It’s more than just a gateway – it’s a mirror reflecting our overall health.” n

Renovo Dental

Pendle House

Clitheroe Road

Chatburn BB7 4JY 01200 441000

hello@renovodental.co.uk

renovodental.co.uk

THE LONG PRESTON DEEPS

a fascinating land management project that is bringing new life to a large floodplain

As you travel along the A65 between Long Preston and Settle, a remarkable prospect can be seen on your left. This area, unique along the Ribble, is an inundated region up to a mile wide at one point, almost a lake during wet spells especially in winter. Known locally as the Long Preston Deeps, this area stretches roughly from Cow Bridge near Wigglesworth to the A65 crossing. This has become the scene of a long-standing, major community endeavour, the Long Preston Floodplain Project, which seeks to encourage both varied wildlife and local farming and

has just celebrated its 20th anniversary. Before the end of the last ice age, the Deeps did indeed form a wide, shallow lake which burst through a moraine barrier (material left behind by a moving glacier) of present-day Rathmell when the glacier finally retreated. This was the birth of the Ribble as we know it today. Although the floodplain itself was too wet for settlement, the discovery of prehistoric flints and axes from the adjacent banks shows that the area was habited during this time, indeed probably farmed since the Bronze Age. There is strong evidence of crop growing in the Middle Ages – the land was shaped into

Historian Andrew Stachulski discovers

a series of furrows and ridges, allowing drier elevated strips where the crops could be grown. Later, from around 1800, much of the flooded area was drained and artificial banks were installed, making the land more productive – especially for livestock farming – but losing much of the old wetland habitat and wildlife.

YOU MAY WITNESS THE SUDDEN EXPLOSIVE RISING OF A SNIPE OR HEAR THE EXCITED CRIES OF THE NOISY BUT ENDEARING REDSHANK

The programme of restorative work, much of which is now contracted out, has various aspects. The Ribble Rivers Trust has been especially active in this work. Some artificial flood banks previously created had a negative impact, by hindering natural processes, namely erosion and sediment deposition. Sediment deposition is important for the river’s health and is being assisted by improving river to floodplain connectivity. Woodland creation is also improving the balance of what was becoming an increasingly barren area.

WHOOPER SWANS ARE AMONG THE WINTER VISITORS, AND WHERE THERE ARE SANDY BANKS KINGFISHER AND SAND MARTIN ARE LIKELY TO BE SEEN

There is a delicate balance to be kept during the restoration work. Concerning wildlife, the Deeps provide an ideal environment for many wading birds in particular, there are encouraging signs from a report in 2020 that the area is now seeing some recovery in bird numbers. Grassland management has been greatly reduced, allowing adjacent fields to retain water and maintain a bogland habitat –an important aspect of the overall land management. This encourages many species of visiting birds throughout the year. Inevitably this water retention also regulates the Ribble’s flow and reduces flooding downstream following heavy rainfall. Residents of Sawley and Ribchester, in particular, know well enough the power of the Ribble in flood.

The whole area boasts a rich variety of flora and fauna and is especially abundant in bird life. To name a few, you may enjoy the graceful wing folding of the lapwing, witness the sudden explosive rising of a snipe or hear the excited cries of the noisy but endearing redshank. Whooper swans are among the winter visitors, and where there are sandy banks kingfisher and sand martin, the latter in summer, are likely to be seen. Among animal species, otter may well be seen and the carnivorous mink, which some regard as unwelcome migrants, are probably responsible in part for the decline of some birds and fish. Other potentially threatening invasive species include certain plant life, notably Himalayan balsam and giant hogweed.

As the Ribble flows on south below Cow Bridge, it resumes a more familiar course with a narrower stream and welldefined banks. Yet the Deeps, though admittedly a small area in the bigger picture, help to impart an even more diverse character to our local river. What great variety it packs into its barely eighty miles’ journey to the sea. n

Bibliography:

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

Acknowledgements:

I am most grateful to the Ribble Rivers Trust and the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust for their splendid help in preparing this article. Other bodies involved in the floodplain project are the Environment Agency, Natural England, North Yorkshire County Council, the RSPB and the YDNPA.

RURAL ROUTE

A new rural bus and rail service connecting the Ribble Valley with the Yorkshire Dales is giving adventurers access to some of the UK’s most beautiful countryside

Anew cross border-bus service has launched in the Ribble Valley. The Service 11 bus between Clitheroe and Horton-in-Ribblesdale, North Yorkshire, was launched last month and is already proving popular with walkers and adventurers in the region.

The new two-hourly service is supported by Lancashire County Council and North Yorkshire Council.

The service runs six times a day, from Monday to Saturday (there is no Sunday service) between Clitheroe, Dunsop Bridge, Slaidburn, Settle, Horton via Bashall Eaves, Whitewell, Newton and Tosside.

Keen to experience the new service, Janet Willacy and her husband recently caught the No 11 from Clitheroe at the Platform Gallery (Stand 3) to Settle and enjoyed the most scenic bus journey: “It was a lovely day out so we would encourage anyone to try it.

The service will be useful for linear walks, great for lunch at one of the excellent eating venues along the route or simply a picnic on the riverside at Dunsop Bridge or Slaidburn.

“Coming up in Settle is a free annual Flowerpot Festival every day from 13th July to 1st September so it will make for a lovely day out with a relaxing scenic journey thrown in!” says Janet, who helps run monthly piano meetups at Clitheroe Library. She thinks the new bus route will help attract other pianists to meetings: “Anyone living on the other side of the border or in the rural areas that the bus route covers, might find it useful for getting to our meetings because the timetable ties in quite well.”

Campaigners like Janet, have found it difficult to get the new bus service restarted and having won the support of the two councils, it is hoped that by spreading the word it will become a popular route: “It is on a trial

basis so it’s a question of ‘use it or lose it’ –so please pass the information on locally and further afield to anyone you think might benefit such as campsites, hotels, B&Bs, holiday lets and walking groups.”

Both Lancashire and North Yorkshire councils have indicated they are delighted to join forces to provide the new cross-boundary service and having met with residents in the Hodder Valley, the bus route is deemed the best solution in order to provide vital and sustainable public transport for residents. It will also give visitors to the Ribble Valley access to some of the most beautiful countryside in the country, without the need to take the car.

In addition to the new bus service, a new Saturday-only rail service between Clitheroe and Settle is starting on 8th June which also has train connections to and from Morecambe and Lancaster (change at Hellifield).

So, here’s to a lovely summer trundling around our stunning countryside discovering the Forest of Bowland and the Yorkshire Dales! n

A timetable for the new No11 bus route can be downloaded at: forestofbowland.com clitheroepiano@gmail.com

STAY THE NIGHT from £111.00

STAY, DINE, CELEBRATE

Whether you’re visiting Mytton Fold Hotel for a country staycation, celebrating a milestone or simply visiting to enjoy a delicious Lancashire classic in The Fold Restaurant, you’ll be met with a welcome smile from the dedicated team on hand.

Stay the night from £111.00, with breakfast and dining options available on request. Make a night of it and enjoy an upcoming event in the 2024 calendar, with something for everyone, from live music to murder mystery dinners, makeup masterclasses to foodie date nights and more.

Mytton Fold recommends: The Dynamos Live - The ultimate ABBA experience, Friday 5th July. Step into summer and enjoy an evening boogying to all the classics, as we welcome The Dynamos - a fresh and exciting trio, adding their spin to the infamous ‘Donna and the Dynamos’.

Visit us: Mytton Fold Hotel: Whalley Road, Langho, BB6 8AB Food served Monday to Saturday 12-9, and Sunday 12-8. Scan the QR code to browse all upcoming events and offers. Plus, purchase your tickects direct through our website.

IN THE SADDLE

Chipping Pony Club members travelled to Cheshire recently to take part in a mounted games event competing against riders from all over the country, writes Megan Conlon

Both at home and away, members of Chipping Pony Club are advancing in their riding abilities by the day.

Our senior mounted games team travelled to Cheshire to put the skills they learnt over the winter months to good use and many members passed their efficiency tests. With members aged nine to 12 making up our fierce team, the tents were packed, horses loaded into trailers and they were on their way to the two-day competition. Other clubs had travelled from far and wide, including some from Scotland, resulting in a daring test of speed and skill up against some of the best. This competition differed from what our members are used to as there was a total of 34 games, as opposed to the standard eight. This meant that stamina and team spirit were crucial to keep motivation high for the entire duration. Races required mounting, dismounting, tight manoeuvres and moving a variety of items, and were all done with

precision and speed. After a challenging rollercoaster of a competition, the team ended up finishing in fifth place overall, testament to the effort they have put into training over the last few months.

Back at home, members have been working hard towards their efficiency tests by attending rallies and training sessions with expert instructors and the day finally arrived to give it their all on the official test day. These tests are designed to accompany a member’s journey through the Pony Club and mark their achievements with a qualification (B test and above can be used as a qualification for PE GCSE) and they are widely recognised in the equine world. Tests range from E to A, with only a few highly advanced members passing their A test nationally each year.

RACES REQUIRED

MOUNTING, DISMOUNTING, TIGHT MANOEUVRES AND MOVING A VARIETY OF ITEMS, AND WERE ALL DONE WITH PRECISION AND SPEED

Chipping had great successes this time round with Edith, Robyn, Arthur and Louis passing their E tests first try. We also had Arthur, Toby, Alice, Olivia, Grace and Connie passing their D tests, and Alice, Olivia and Ellen passing their D+ tests. In these tests, members had to showcase their equine knowledge and answer questions about their ponies throughout. The structure of rallies is often to encourage members to take these tests, and they can be a brilliant motivator to learn as much as possible when expert knowledge is available.

The mounted games team are due to reunite soon for the Area competition when they will be competing against all the local clubs for a chance at the National Pony Club Championships – more about that in the next issue!

With the weather and ground drying up, there will be far more opportunity for riding outdoors while we prepare for the upcoming summer competitions surrounded by friends. After all, there’s nothing quite like a picnic in the sunshine at a Pony Club rally. 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

ON THE UP…

SPYCATCHER

He had a brilliant 2023 and was unlucky not to win the Prix Maurice de Gheest at Deauville. He needs cut in the ground and it was probably too quick for him in the Abernant at Newmarket, where he was third and lost a shoe. I hope he can find a Group 1 this year.

KORKER

He’s a proper five-furlong horse who finished really well last year and has finally started to jump from the stalls properly. He should have been a Royal Ascot winner but got left 10 lengths in the Palace of Holyroodhouse two years ago and got beaten three lengths. If he keeps starting fine, he’s a Listed/Group 3 horse.

There are more boxes full of quality horses at Karl Burke’s training yard at Spigot Lodge, just outside Middleham in Yorkshire, than there have ever been. His is definitely a stable on the up and he has now risen to the highest level of the training ranks, capable of competing in any company whether it be in the Classics or at Royal Ascot.

He has reached 100 winners in Britain in each of the last three seasons (comfortably passing that number last year with 119) and his record haul of prize money (over £3m) was three times as much as he was earning in the days of six-time Group 1 winner, Laurens, back in 2018.

Last season Karl won two top-level races among a total of 17 Group wins, which included five in France and two in Ireland.

Asked about how the yard has reached the top table, Karl says: “It’s the same routine but we’re getting sent better horses, it’s as simple as that.”

Angel, Darnation and Night Raider as well as three potential Derby candidates in Arabic Legend, Caviar Heights and Golden West.

I’m pleased to say that we have had horses at Spigot Lodge for the last six years and there are currently five in his yard. Karl’s view of them is as follows:

KARL BURKE FACT FILE

Yard: Spigot Lodge, Middleham, North Yorkshire

Started training: 1990

Horses: 139

Members of staff: 50

Jockeys: Clifford Lee, Sam James, Pierre-Louis Jamin

2023 winning strike rate: 16% (119/736)

2023 prize money: £3,130,725

HARVANNA

Jason Fildes of Fildes Racing analyses the meteoric rise of trainer Karl Burke’s stable in Yorkshire Fildes Racing 07721 311778 fildesracing@gmail.com

She’s quick – and we’ll probably keep her to sprint distances. We’re hoping she can run well at York before winning the race at Royal Ascot that Korker didn’t!

MANNERISM

A slightly disappointing two-year-old season last year but has grown and strengthened. But he’s sustained an injury which will keep him out of action until the autumn. He could be a very well handicapped horse when we get him to the racecourse.

AMALFINA

A beautifully bred filly (by Nathaniel) who is a half-sister to our Group 1 winner Poptronic. Amalfina has just arrived from Jamie Lloyd’s pre-training yard and has settled in nicely. She’s still a baby and growing but she’s doing everything we’ve asked of her - we’ll see what kind of engine she’s got in the summer. I don’t think she’ll be running until July, over mid-distances, but we’ve high hopes. n

Success breeds success in racing and owners gravitate to trainers on the up. Karl is certainly one of those and the better horses for 2024 include Guineas runners Fallen

Best month for winners: July

Best racecourse percentage: Thirsk (23%)

ST A G PARTIES THE OF EVOLUTION

From beer bashes to bespoke adventures, stag parties have substantially evolved over the years to become action-packed adventures,

writes Dan Hyams

Stag dos, or bachelor parties as they’re known across the pond, have long been synonymous with raucous revelry, copious amounts of alcohol and a last hurrah before tying the knot. However, in recent years, the concept of stag dos has undergone a significant transformation. What was once a night of bar-hopping and ‘exotic’ entertainment has evolved into a curated experience tailored to the groom’s interests and personality. Gone are the days when a stag do simply meant hitting the local pubs and clubs until the early hours of the morning. Today, grooms and their groomsmen are opting for more memorable and meaningful experiences. From adrenaline-fueled adventures to relaxing retreats, the options for stag parties are as diverse as the grooms themselves. Adventure-seeking grooms might choose to

embark on a weekend of adrenaline-pumping activities such as quad biking, bungee jumping or white-water rafting. These high-octane experiences not only provide an opportunity for bonding but also create lasting memories that the groom and his friends will cherish for years to come. For those who prefer a more laid-back approach, a sports weekend such as a golf retreat might be the perfect choice, allowing the stag and his friends to unwind

WHETHER IT’S A BEACH GETAWAY ON THE MED, A SKI TRIP IN THE SWISS ALPS, OR A CITY BREAK IN BARCELONA, DESTINATION STAG WEEKENDS OFFER THE PERFECT OPPORTUNITY FOR ADVENTURE AND EXPLORATION

and recharge before the big day. But perhaps the most significant trend in stag dos in recent years has been the shift towards bespoke experiences. Instead of opting for off-the-shelf packages, many grooms are now choosing to create custom-tailored stag experiences that reflect their unique interests and passions. A foodie groom might opt for a gourmet cooking class followed by a private dining experience at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Alternatively, sports-enthusiasts might choose to go hiking in Madeira, take in the El Clasico at the Bernabeu or race go karting round the F1 track in Abu Dhabi!

The rise of bespoke stag dos has also led to an increase in destination stag weekends. Grooms are no longer limited to celebrating in their hometown, instead, their groomsmen are opting to book travel to exotic locations to mark the occasion in style. Whether it’s a beach getaway on the Med, a ski trip in the Swiss Alps, or a city break in Barcelona, destination stag weekends offer the perfect opportunity for adventure and exploration. Of course, amidst all the excitement and adventure, it’s essential not to lose sight of the true purpose of a stag do – celebrating the groom and his impending nuptials (alongside plenty of humiliation). Whether it’s a low-key gathering with close friends or an extravagant weekend getaway, the most important thing is that the groom has a memorable experience surrounded by the people he cares about most. So, here’s to the groom and his last hurrah – may it be a celebration to remember! n

travelcounsellors.co.uk

#LOVEANDLAUGHTER

MAGICAL MINI BREAKS IN THE 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. CELEBRATE • SPA • DINE • STAY

CHARITY FOCUS

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

BALLOON OF HOPE

The Samaritans of Pendle, Burnley, Craven and Rossendale recently held a walk to help raise awareness of their services. The walk started in Kelbrook at 6am and headed off towards Craven and Earby before going towards Barnoldswick and Foulridge to make a heart shape and then made their way through Colne, Nelson, Burnley and finishing in Rawtenstall at the market.

A number of trained listening volunteers carrying an inflatable phone, embarked on part of the route others walking the full 26-mile distance.

A number of canine friends joined the walk, a great way to start and open a conversation. Two stops were taken, the first at the Samaritans branch in Nelson and the second at Burnley Tesco to allow walkers to rest.

One of the organisers of the walk, commented: “The Balloon of Hope walk all went to plan. It was heart-warming to see fellow Samaritan volunteers, friends and family walking alongside each other. We were lucky with the weather which helped but 26.4 miles is a very long way, even in perfect walking conditions. Congratulations to all.”

One of the walkers who was also photographer for the day said: “A brilliant day rubbing shoulders with selfless volunteers, reaching the public, chatting to old friends and making new ones. This event helped bring the Samaritans to the people who had first-hand experience and wanted to contribute towards the amazing work they do.”

The event has helped raise over £3,500 for the branch and will go

Live Ribble Valley takes a look at a recent charity event involving a sponsored 26-mile walk by the Samaritans

towards supporting more outreach events within the local communities that the branch supports.

For those who wish to donate towards this event there is a Just Giving page: balloonofhope

A GUIDE TO PROTECTING YOUR MONEY THE BANK OF MUM & DAD:

Now more than ever family and friends are lending a helping hand, and their cash, to get others on the property ladder, but what happens when the couple who buy the property together divorces? Angharad Bentley, family solicitor at Farleys gives her advice

Recent research suggests that the median parental contribution to help children get on the property ladder is £30,000 and the research also tells us that family and friends are failing to make it clear that this money is a loan rather than a gift. Furthermore, only 14 per cent of friends and family are taking legal advice to protect their money before handing it over.

This kind of financial support can be invaluable and often, the only way to get on the property ladder for some. However, when relationships break down, litigation often

follows when no proper consideration is given to how that money should be protected.

A prime example of this is when a parent makes a loan to a child so that they can afford to buy a property to live in. When the child divorces, and their spouse disputes that the money was a loan to be repaid from the financial settlement, litigation happens. The litigation results in legal costs on top of the loan and can increase the costs of the divorcing parties as well.

A PRIME EXAMPLE OF THIS IS WHEN A PARENT MAKES A LOAN TO A CHILD SO THAT THEY CAN AFFORD TO BUY A PROPERTY TO LIVE IN

A loan or a gift?

When parties divorce, the legal presumption, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, is that money received from friends and family is a gift.

If the money really is intended as a gift, meaning that you do not expect them to pay it back, the recipient may wish to put together a Living Together Agreement, often referred to as a Cohabitation Agreement. This would set out who put what in. If a

recipient is to be married, or is already married, consideration should be given to drafting a Pre or Post Nuptial Agreement. This sets out what should happen to the money provided by family or friends in the event the marriage breaks down.

If the money is a loan that you require to be repaid, it is often best protected by drawing up a Declaration of Trust. This document can set out the details of how a property is owned and in what shares. It can also name the family members or friends together with details of the loan. In financial remedy proceedings, it is difficult to challenge a properly drawn up Declaration of Trust.

To further protect the money loaned, the friend or family member may wish to have a Legal Charge drawn up and lodged against the title of the property with the Land Registry. Additionally, a Loan Agreement may be appropriate.

Behaviour, such as the recipient making regular repayments, would assist in determining the nature of the contribution if ever it came into dispute on divorce. n

If you’re looking for legal advice in relation to a divorce, separation or disputes over assets, contact Farleys Solicitors on 01254 368040, email: info@farleys.com, or visit our website for more information: farleys.com

RIBBLE REBELLION: DISRUPTING THE GLOBAL CRITERIUM SCENE

Ribble Cycles has put together a world class team featuring the fastest riders to compete on the exhilarating criterium racing scene

With closed circuits that allow excellent fan engagement and short, understandable race formats in city centres, criterium racing has long taken the United States by storm, and over the past month, the new team from Ribble Cycles, RIBBLE REBELLION, debuting over the pond has been creating huge waves and wreaking podium havoc on the US crit scene.

In order to achieve this objective, Ribble has brought together a team of criterium racers from all over the globe to build an impressive roster of talent. The team’s captain is Joe Laverick, a former rider for Hagens Berman Axeon, Axel Merckx’s development squad. Laverick has stated the intension from the start was to go out there and be a force to be reckoned with – to podium and win:

“Being part of the team that has put RIBBLE REBELLION together has been a tremendous opportunity. We have a set of talented individuals and on the road we’ll be racing as one – wanting to do things very differently. That’s what this team is all about. Our goals are quite simple – ride to compete, to podium, to win.”

CRIT RACING IS FAST, FURIOUS AND EXHILARATING, WHERE EVERY PERFORMANCE ADVANTAGE COUNTS

The dynamic team features riders from a range of countries, including Ruben Apers of Belgium, a former professional for pro-

continental team, Team Flanders-Baloise. The Canadian duo of Cam Fitzmaurice and Al Murison, Cole Davis of the USA, plus riders from the UK include Max Rushby, Tom Couzens, Jim Brown and former British National Criterium Champion, Matt Bostock completes the line-up.

“RIBBLE REBELLION is the next exciting chapter in our long history of cycle racing. Crit racing is fast, furious and exhilarating, where every performance advantage counts. When you have the fastest riders in the world on the globe’s most aerodynamically optimised bike you have something very special,” says Andy Smallwood, Ribble’s CEO.

The team race on Ribble’s eye-catching, aerodynamic race bike, the Ultra SL R, custom painted with a bold, bright design which reflects the personalities and confidence of the team. Each member of RIBBLE REBELLION has their own unique rider colour on the Ultra aero bars and forks to ensure they are distinguishable in the peloton.

Standing out with a scoop of wins in the USA at Redlands & Speedweek there is growing opinion in cycling that criterium racing and this team could be a beacon of hope for the sport’s future. n

RIBBLE REBELLION kick start their domestic season with events hosted across the UK.

To see the team speed by in action, aiming to win every title and to experience the excitement of criterium racing, visit: ribblecycles.co.uk

Live Magazines’ Tedd Walmsley calls for the urgent repair of the vast number of potholes in the Ribble Valley and asks readers to support their local high street

It looks like I’ve been missed again, based on a busy email inbox. So, have we made any progress? Let’s start by talking about potholes – the well-known Beatles song, A Day in the Life, suggests that there were 4,000 holes in Blackburn Lancashire – I can’t imagine how many there are across the county and some of them aren’t that small! I read with interest some positive PR about extra money being allocated to repair them by LCC on social media. Sadly, like so many headline-grabbing posts the truth is somewhat different to the soundbites. There is extra cash in the pot (forgive the pun) but only enough to repair 30 per cent of the total number of current potholes. Will the Ribble Valley get its fair share of this fund? I severely doubt it. In my view you need to shout at your county councillors – with an election just 12 months way, claim compensation and make sure your voice is heard. These potholes are extremely dangerous and absolutely need repairing.

Work has finally started on the ‘Mumbai streets’ aka a ‘conservation area upgrade’ as I’m told it’s being called. I’m sure it will be a fantastic great big patio when completed, but for now it’s causing disruption in Clitheroe. The initial press release from the communications team at RVBC (now one part-time officer) did nothing to help the beleaguered high street, almost suggesting the town is closed for business. We need to do everything we can to drive footfall into Clitheroe up until the works are completed, which I am reliably informed will be at the end of July – just in time for the Clitheroe Food Festival.

Talking of the food festival we have a new date – 10th August – it’s just a shame no-one, including potential

exhibitors, knew about this until early March. It therefore doesn’t come as a surprise that the trader numbers are considerably down on last year. The website strapline says this event is the ‘ultimate celebration of local food’. I’m hoping to see the list soon and if supported by a marketing strategy, that thus far has failed to materialise, I wouldn’t hold your breath.

It’s my intention to work with the Clitheroe Chamber of Trade to create an amazing Clitheroe feature in the next issue of LRV – it is in fact our 150th issue and we’re planning a magazine full of celebration. I will of course invite RVBC to get involved and it would be great to have them on board.

I’m led to believe that the past few months have seen RVBC in turmoil. The creation of another new opposition party based on the Liberal democrats splitting up, meant a huge reorganisation of the various committees, chairs and subgroups. Can you believe having completed this mission, one of the said new leaders has now upped sticks and moved to Scotland. The outcome is that they’ve got to do it all again and it beggars belief that so little actually ever seems to get done. I continue, for example, to ask to see the economic plan but as yet, as with most things, it has not been forthcoming.

I’m also interested to see the results of the £30k spent on various surveys and consultancies on things such as the new market strategy and new swimming pool. These macro projects are hugely important to both residents and businesses and it’s a sad indictment of the lack of urgency on the council’s part.

Iwant to bring everyone up to date on the fight to save Waddow Hall for it to remain a beacon of outdoor adventure for all generations in the local community and beyond. The fundraising by countless individuals has thus far raised £125k and a bid has been submitted to Girl Guiding – the results should be known in June. There is a financial plan in place should the bid be accepted on how this purchase would be funded and subsequently run. Sadly, nothing but platitudes from RVBC and as yet no philanthropists prepared to escalate the fundraising. I sincerely hope the trust behind this can pull this off and that the council and others see the huge benefit of this incredible Ribble Valley asset.

I’d like to thank all of our regular and new advertisers for their trust and continued support in what are challenging economic times for us all and can I call on all our readers to ‘think local’ when considering any major purchases. The high streets across the Ribble Valley need your support as do our restaurants, cafes and all the local events taking place. Be proud of where you work and live. Until June – 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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KENNEL CLUB REGISTERED

IT’S SHOW TIME!

It’s that time of year again when one of the UK’s top agricultural shows sets up in the heart of the Ribble Valley, attracting thousands of visitors to the region

The exciting run-up to the Royal Lancashire Agricultural Show (RLAS) is underway with a host of wonderful exhibits and activities, making this one the most impressive shows in the country.

Under the auspices and guidance of new President Kevin Horkin and RLAS Chairman Colin Mustoe, the show is set to be even bigger and better this year.

Attracting up to 20,000 visitors over the three-day extravaganza, the show will once again be held in the extensive grounds of Salebury Hall on the banks of the River Ribble – the perfect rural location!

“As the new President I can assure visitors of a very warm Lancashire welcome,” says Kevin, a long-standing animal welfare campaigner.

THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING NEW, THE SHOW JUST GOES FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH

“As one of the largest rural authorities in the county it is fantastic to see such a prestigious event held in the heart of the Ribble Valley. It showcases everything that is good about Lancashire.”

This year attractions include show jumping, Shetland pony Grand National, falconry, goats, ferrets, a Military Village, a funfair, dogs,

bee-keeping, sheep, Children’s Village, vintage tractors, Thwaites’ Shire horses, live music, light and heavy horses, premier shopping opportunities in the marquees along with first-class food and dining experiences – representing a fantastic day out for all the family!

“There’s always something new, the show just goes from strength to strength. While we had some inclement weather last year, it didn’t put visitors off, but we’ve put our order in for some sunshine this year!” adds Kevin.

“Our Chairman Colin Mustoe is a beacon in terms of pushing the event forward every year, working together with his team to constantly deliver a superb show.” n

Tickets for the show are available online along with special offers and RLAS membership opportunities. The website also has contact details for sponsorship and exhibitor enquiries.

To find out more about the show, which is to be held from 19th-21st July 2024 at the Salesbury Hall showground, go to: royallancashireshow.co.uk

LOVE LYTHAM

SHOP, EAT & WALK!

With a large number of independent shops, and a superb department store, Lytham is the ideal place to visit for a shopping trip. There is also an impressive range of places to eat and drink to suit all tastes and budgets. And now, with this superb book, it is also an ideal base to explore easy walks from the South Fylde line.

The book comes with simple instructions, absolutely superb photographs and maps. You can’t get lost!

Most of the walks are wheelchair accessible, and Lytham itself is exceptionally dog-friendly.

Only recently published it is already a RUNAWAY BEST-SELLER

The author, recently retired teacher and DofE expedition leader, Steve Garrill is also responsible for another bestselling book, The North West Way - a long distance walk from Preston to Carlisle – see www.northwestway.uk for details.

SIGNED COPIES of Walks from the South Fylde Line are available exclusively from Plackitt & Booth in Lytham for only £7.95. Plackitt & Booth can also post it to you.

Scan the QR code for order details.

As a family lawyer, you tend to notice all the elements of family law that are mis-portrayed in popular media (particularly American media) and how this impacts on people’s understandings and opinions on family law issues.

One example is that clients will instruct us to fight their ‘custody battles’ or to pursue ‘alimony’ from their spouse, both being terms we don’t actually use in England and Wales, preferring ‘child arrangements’ or ‘financial arrangements’ respectively. I also notice that clients may have an American media-informed view on prenuptial agreements as well. In TV shows and similar, it seems that the prenuptial agreement has been perpetually weaponised – insisted upon by overbearing parents or used as a tool to lock a spouse into an unhappy marriage, for a divorce would mean destitution. Whilst I couldn’t comment on the legitimacy of these portrayals in the US, they certainly don’t reflect the truth here in England and Wales. In the past, a prenuptial agreement wouldn’t even have been a strictly legally binding document, acting more as

PRENUPTIAL AGREEMENTS

Prenuptial

agreements may seem unromantic, but they can bring a degree of certainty, advises Elspeth Kinder of JMW

a guide for judges, but in the last 15 years prenups are increasingly being upheld by judges, providing, of course, that they are fair.

There is obviously this view that prenuptial agreements are unromantic, and I do understand where that view comes from. It might seem to be a pessimistic and bureaucratic exercise at what is supposed to be the most romantic and unfettered time of your life. But encouraging my clients to think on it, I ask whether it’s any different to getting contents insurance after you buy a house? You’re not assuming the worst is

OPEN AND FRANK DISCUSSIONS WITH THE PARTNER YOU’RE ABOUT TO TAKE AS YOUR SPOUSE CAN ONLY BE A GOOD THING

going to happen, you’re just taking precautions in case they do. It doesn’t mean you can’t still daydream about and plan all the lovely memories you will make in the house. It just gives you the reassurance that you will recover if the worst does happen.

That’s what prenuptial agreements can do – allay fear, both in the marriage as well as if it breaks down. Because fear really is the worst part of a divorce and the subsequent negotiation of financial arrangements. Fear

of the unknown, fear of reduced wealth, fear of what life may look and feel like under the change of circumstances. Fear can lead to acrimony, tension, irrational decisions and the associated costs of working things through. Prenuptial agreements really can be useful for any couple getting married if they want to reduce the risk of uncertainty and fear in the event of a divorce.

Furthermore, a healthy conversation about money and an agreement should give them a fair degree of certainty if things don’t work out.

To further contradict the image many people may have of prenuptial agreements, they aren’t just for super wealthy individuals, despite them featuring heavily in reports dissecting the latest celebrity break-ups. Prenuptial agreements can be for anyone, ranging from young couples starting out in life together, where one stands to inherit long-standing family assets or wealth, for example a business or a trust fund, to second timers getting married with enough insight into the pain and distress of divorce to want to have clarity as they enter the marriage, for themselves and their children.

But most importantly, prenuptial agreements encourage open and frank discussions with the partner you’re about to take as your spouse, and that can only be a good thing. n

JMW is truly exceptional in its field, and its team of lawyers possesses a wealth of knowledge and experience in helping clients navigate the complex financial issues that arise during divorce proceedings, working tirelessly to ensure that their clients receive a fair and equitable settlement.

LEGAL 500 2024

Navigating divorce can be a lonely experience, - but it doesn’t have to be.

Our team of family lawyers are recognised by the leading legal directories, including the Legal 500, for our pragmatic and, importantly, empathetic advice across the spread of family law services. So whether you are navigating a divorce, researching prenuptial agreements or considering formalising child arrangements, call us for some confidential impartial advice on 0345 872 6666 or visit jmw.co.uk

LoNgRIdGE shOW

GREAT DAY OUT…

GARDENS

Wilderness Garden which was originally in the form of a Union Jack to commemorate the 1707 Act of Union.

CART SHED CAFÉ

Lovingly restored, the Cart Shed Café is located in what was an original unused farm building. It’s the perfect pit stop for visitors on a day out. Enjoy the sunshine outdoors or keep cosy indoors – either way the Cart Shed Café is a welcoming place with a menu that has been devised using first-class

IT’S THE PERFECT SPOT TO TAKE YOUNGSTERS WHO CAN EMBARK ON AN ENERGETIC JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY IN THE FRESH AIR

local produce. The café’s wonderful team make and bake on-site so visitors can enjoy delicious, seasonal dishes. There are some classic regulars on the menu along with a constantly changing specials board – or simply relax and enjoy a traditional pot of tea and slice of cake. Book in advance to avoid disappointment! n

OEnjoy a tour of historic Browsholme Hall, take a walk in the parkland and gardens and to round off a great day, visit the Cart Shed Café for delicious refreshments CATCH THE BUS TO BROWSHOLME

ne of Lancashire’s most impressive historic, country homes, Browsholme Hall is the oldest family home in Lancashire and has opened its doors to the public for 2024. Visitors can now embark on a tour of the hall, which is set in 600 acres of lush green parkland, rural woodland and more formal gardens with wonderful walks for a great family day out!

TOURS OF BROWSHOLME

Experienced and knowledgeable volunteer guides take visitors on a tour of the hall explaining the history, architecture, art and general points of interest. The original house was built after 1507 and is one of the finest surviving antiquarian interiors in England. There are many and varied interesting items on display that have been collected by the Parker family through the generations. Tour guides will take visitors behind the scenes to discover the various rooms, artefacts and paintings. Tour times and tickets are available on the website.

Outside the hall visitors can walk along pretty winding paths by the three-acre lake. It’s the perfect spot to take youngsters who can embark on an energetic journey of discovery in the fresh air and parkland. Near to the East Wing is the Long Terrace, Parterre and Yew Walk which is featured in a watercolour by JMW Turner, who visited 200 years ago. Also, within the grounds at Browsholme, is the two-acre, re-imagined

BROWSHOLME TOURS & THE CART SHED CAFÉ OPENING TIMES

May & September

Wednesdays only: 11am-4pm June, July & August

Tuesdays and Wednesdays: 11am-4pm

Open Bank Holiday Monday 27th May and Monday 26th August: 11am-4pm

Please note while the café is dog-friendly, they are not allowed in the hall.

Visitors can now get to Browsholme Hall by bus on a new service – the Number 11 which runs from Clitheroe Interchange to Horton-in-Ribblesdale, stopping at the visitor entrance to the Hall. For the bus timetable go to the website: browsholme.com

Browsholme Hall

Clitheroe Road, Cow Ark, Clitheroe BB7 3DE 01254 827160 hello@browsholme.com browsholme.com

Tour times may vary, so please check on the ticketing site or call 01254 827160 @browsholme

TRULY MAGICAL

In the heart of the beautiful Ribble Valley is a luxurious hideaway that has won a host of awards and attracted nationwide recognition for its idyllic location and innovative concept

Probably one of the most apt awards to have been bestowed on Everything Retreat in Mellor, is LUXlife’s Most Idyllic Accommodation 2023 Award.

In their award criteria, LUXlife says: “We are proud to highlight our winners’ efforts, innovation and creativity when it comes to delivering the best of the best for their myriad of customers. Stretching across the globe, the luxury resorts and retreats industry has been a prevalent force for exquisite self-care, sophistication and exclusive experiences.”

Tucked away in the rolling hills of Mellor in the Ribble Valley, Everything Retreat launched just over 12 months ago and from

the outset it was destined to become a winner.

Alongside the LUXlife award, closer to home the retreat won a Stars in Tourism Award for Innovation at the 2023 Ribble Valley Tourism

Awards, which described Everything Retreat, saying: “They don’t come more innovative than this! Here you are invited to disconnect from the stresses and strains of everyday life with an experience of pure quality and wellness in the heart of the Ribble Valley.”

Hot on the heels of this award came the Ribble Valley Business Awards, which named Everything Retreat as Best New Business winner and Social Media Champion.

Everything Retreat owner Louise Monk and her team also took Best Idyllic Retreat (North West England) at the CEO Awards and the retreat was also named a finalist in the Lancashire Tourism Awards for Best New Tourism Business and Best Self Catering Accommodation.

It’s been a busy time for Louise who has welcomed more than 1500 UK-wide and international visitors to the retreat –testament to their success as a totally exclusive hideaway that has pure luxury and enjoyment at its heart.

With 12 beautifully furnished lodges

all with outdoor hot tubs, the retreat has become renowned for providing guests with a first-class concierge service that deals with everything from restaurant bookings to local chauffeur services that will transport guests to their chosen destination.

Everything Retreat has also forged collaborations with some of the region’s best restaurants including Michelin-starred Northcote.

As a champion of local businesses, Louise explains: “We enjoy many successful collaborations with local restaurants and with local businesses through our unique concierge service.”

As the name suggests Everything Retreat delivers just about everything a guest could wish for – a delicious continental breakfast hamper in one of the luxury lodges, a quintessentially English afternoon tea or why not enjoy tapas in the lovely on-site Balance Bar after a day of discovery in the Ribble Valley? Louise has local team of artisan suppliers – from butchers, bakers and suppliers of exclusive wines, everything has been considered to ensure a first-class experience.

With the arrival of warmer weather, on the last Saturday of the month, guests staying at Everything Retreat can experience chilled

Balearic vibes at the Sunset Sessions with a DJ and music on the terrace, drinks and wood-fired pizza or barbecued burgers.

A luxurious haven, the grounds of Everything Retreat are a joy at this time of year with the views across the valley, nothing short of spectacular!

WE ARE PROUD TO HIGHLIGHT OUR WINNERS’ EFFORTS, INNOVATION AND CREATIVITY WHEN IT COMES TO DELIVERING THE BEST OF THE BEST

LUXlife Most Idyllic Accommodation 2023 Awards

The retreat is also surrounded by wildlife and there are plenty of interesting and scenic walks: “We are thrilled to attract visitors to the area – it shows them just how vibrant and beautiful the Ribble Valley is.”

Also passionate about health and wellbeing, Louise is hoping to expand the retreat’s wellness and spa credentials and is planning a number of events where guests can revitalise and re-connect in a quiet place. The retreat can also organise guest-led themed events whether that’s a yoga break, a workplace

team-builder or a private dining experience, this is a place where the magic happens! n

To find out more about forthcoming events go to the website: everything-retreat.com.

SUNSET SESSIONS –last Saturday of the month

For more details keep an eye on the website for updates and offers! everything-retreat.com

EVERYTHING retreat

Everything Retreat Primrose Hill, Primrose Lane, Mellor BB2

01254 965095

hello@everything-retreat.com

everything-retreat.com

everythingretreat

RibbleValley

ESTATE LIFE

Gisburne Park is owned and managed by Guy and Amber Hindley, who are converting it into a thriving five-star, luxury resort

It’s been a while since we did our last Estate Life but we’re back and as busy as ever. As you may or may not be aware, in 2021 during the Covid pandemic, Amber and I managed to purchase Gisburne Park Hospital, my old family home and incorporate it back into the estate.

We also managed to purchase the next door NHS building. So, after 35 years we are now in complete control of the entire estate and can start to realise our dreams. We have recently partnered up with Rural Solutions Ltd, who

are helping us to achieve our long term objectives. Originally based at Broughton Hall, they are now situated in Skipton and specialise in helping landed estates diversify and realise their ambitions. They are the UK’s leading specialist

in developing whole estate plans (WEP) which assist the owners in master planning their estates for generations to come. We are extremely excited to be working with William and his team and look forward to submitting our

OUR GOAL IS TO RESTORE THE MANSION HOUSE TO ITS FORMER GLORY AND CREATE A BOUTIQUE HOTEL AND THE NORTH OF ENGLAND’S FIRST PRIVATE MEMBERS’ CLUB

application to RVBC within the next few months.

Our goal is to restore the mansion house to its former glory and create a boutique hotel and the north of England’s first private members’ club. The hall is situated in the most spectacular setting, which will all become part of the gardens and grounds of the club. Also planned is a wellness centre, which will be the heart of a biohacking, weight loss, longevity programme that Amber is currently developing with a team of experts.

Elsewhere on the estate we have had some unwelcome issues.

Electricity North West installed an underground electric mains on our property but the trench has since collapsed, turning it into a water passage flooding Park Road and some Gisburn residents whenever it rains. It has been a battle and will take a while to remedy the problem.

Our summer menu launches in Hindelinis this week. On the menu are some old classics such as gammon steak and eggs, fish and chips, homemade cheese and onion pie and some new additions including grilled sea bass fillet, duck pancakes and lots of healthy options such as Nicoise salad with hot smoked salmon. Our organic gardens are all planted up ready to provide plenty of herbs and salads to the restaurant and our chickens are busy laying eggs for the ever-popular breakfasts. My mum (chicken chief) is now in charge of the chickens which live and graze in the meadow by her house. n

Gisburne Park Estate Mill Lane, Gisburn BB7 4LP 01200 415300 gisburneparkestate.co.uk

@hindelinis @ribblesdalepark @gisburneparkestate

When medical care falls below standard and causes the patient additional harm, it is medical negligence, commonly referred to as clinical negligence.

MAKING A CLAIM

There are two main elements to a claim:

1 The standard of treatment needs to have fallen below the standard expected of a reasonably competent clinician dealing with the condition, at the relevant time.

2 If the treatment was below standard, it needs to have caused additional pain, suffering, loss and damage over and above that which a patient may have experienced had the treatment been appropriate.

A medical expert would need to review the medical records and provide their opinion on both elements to establish a claim. It is essentially a peer review.

INVESTIGATING A CLAIM

Making a formal written complaint to the treating hospital or clinic is often helpful. The complaint should be acknowledged within a few weeks, followed by a formal written response within a couple of months.

MEDICAL TREATMENT GONE WRONG?

The clinical negligence team at Forbes Solicitors explain what can be done when medical treatment goes wrong causing additional harm

If there has been a ‘never event’ or significant harm been identified, there ought to be a ‘duty of candour notification’ or ‘serious incident’ report. The Healthcare Safety Investigation Branch (HSIB) undertake maternity investigations in eligible circumstances particularly in stillbirth, neonatal death, severe brain injury and maternal death cases.

We can investigate a potential claim, obtain the medical records and consider the merits of a case. If there is a case, a written opinion from a medical expert, away from the local area, would be required. They will review the medical records and provide their opinion.

A MEDICAL EXPERT WOULD NEED TO REVIEW THE MEDICAL RECORDS

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

Legal aid is only available in serious birth brain injury cases. We accept cases on a no win no fee basis. We usually charge a 25 per cent success fee. If the claim is for an injured child, we do not charge a success fee. We may be able to obtain insurance to fund the expert’s fees involved in investigating case.

WHAT TYPE OF THINGS CAN YOU CLAIM

FOR?

The injury and any losses arising from it. Loss of earnings, accommodation, transport, equipment, mobility, therapies, education and care and assistance with independent living. In a death case, loss of dependency on earnings, pension or the services the deceased provided.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO MAKE A CLAIM?

Much depends on whether the case is defended. If negligence and some harm is accepted, it may be possible to obtain an interim payment. A contested case can take a number of years. Most cases settle before a trial and mediation is encouraged.

HOW WILL THE MONEY BE PAID?

Usually as a lump sum at the end of the case. In very serious, catastrophic injury cases, the settlement may include a lump sum and index linked periodical payments for the rest of the claimant’s life. n

Forbes Solicitors have an experienced Clinical Negligence Team dealing with all aspects of clinical negligence claims. For further information relating to any of the issues raised in this article, please contact one of the team on 01254 872 111.

Life has its moments. Some happy, some heartbreaking, and some where you’re going to need legal advice. With Forbes, you can embrace life with confidence, safe in the knowledge that whatever happens, we’ll be here for you.

YOU’LL NEVER WALK ALONE

They do say walking is the best exercise you can do. Alan Veale meets the organisers of the Longridge 20/20, which has been supporting good causes for almost three decades

Whatever your personal circumstances, it would be hard to deny that the simple act of putting one foot in front of the other does have its benefits. What better way to visit your local pub, for example? Or why not walk a bit further, say 20 miles, and visit several pubs?

To answer those questions, I met Alan Heaton from Longridge in a drinking establishment that must remain anonymous – I’ll explain later.

Alan tells me about a Tuesday evening in 1994 at a pub not far from where we now sit. He and some mates are chatting over a session of dominoes when he tells them of the time he walked a route that included all 20 Boddingtons pubs in Preston. Hey, we all like walking, so why not try something similar in the Longridge area? So, they did, but without the Boddingtons’ label. It was a route of roughly 20 miles, and so far as he

can recall, Alan reckons they only had one half at each stop.

The event was so popular they did the whole thing again (with a slightly different route and participants) in 1995. But then fellow walker Ian Thompson came up with the idea to seek sponsors and raise funds for local charities. This was the birth of what eventually became known as the Longridge 20/20, and a committee of around a dozen now share responsibility for organising the annual event.

To date, there have been 29 such walks around the Ribble Valley and number 30 will be on Saturday 29th June. Up to 500 people will be donning their walking boots and hoping to avoid blisters. Each have already paid £30 for the privilege, knowing every penny of their ‘gait money’ goes to a worthy

IT WOULD BE HARD TO DENY THAT THE SIMPLE ACT OF PUTTING ONE FOOT IN FRONT OF THE OTHER DOES HAVE ITS BENEFITS

cause. This year, that will be Heartbeat, a charity providing prevention and rehabilitation to people affected by cardiovascular disease. Local firm Touchline Fabrications is also chipping in and with that additional funding, Longridge 20/20 will pay for the installation of an additional defibrillator for the town.

Circular walks start and finish in Longridge, allowing up to 500 participants, but others involve hiring buses to transport walkers to the start point for a linear route. This brings the finish line back to Longridge, but the logistics involved, restricts the numbers of those taking part. The 2024 walk, like the 20th anniversary, will be circular.

I ask Alan how much money has been raised for charities over the years. A sip of

beer and a slow smile crosses his lips: “Well, we started close to home in 1996 with Hillside School for children with special education needs, and raised £600. But we only had 42 participants for that one. The biggest we ever had was for our 20th anniversary, when 549 took part on a circular route, and we raised over £19,000 split between Help for Heroes and the Longridge Cricket and Hockey Clubs.”

Alan shows me a meticulously detailed spreadsheet, indicating 30 good causes that have to date received a share of over £205,000. The charities include national ones like Cystic Fibrosis (1999) as well as causes with a personal connection to some of the walkers themselves, such as the Miles for Mitchie campaign supporting Cancer Research UK in 2017.

As I digest the statistics, I applaud the financial outcome from these annual expeditions, but I am struck by the potential unintended consequence of several hundred people being unleashed on countryside paths and narrow lanes. I ask Alan if that causes any problems.

Again, he smiles admitting there’s always a risk, but that in practice, those participating invariably do so in good spirit (no pun intended). On the day, every walker is issued with a comprehensive printed guide that includes a long list of do’s and don’ts including:

• The walk is organised for your enjoyment but is undertaken at your own risk

• Drink sensibly – alcohol consumption is not compulsory

• Follow the Countryside Code

• Please be respectful of private property

The guide includes illustrations and full written instructions for the route

and contact details for anyone requiring assistance. The one Alan shows me covers last year’s walk, and I ask if he has any information about the one in June. It’s a bit like asking the Chancellor what’s inside his next Budget –secrecy around the forthcoming walk has become a tradition, which is why I can’t even tell you which pub we are sitting in as it’s on the route.

WE RAISED OVER £19,000 SPLIT BETWEEN HELP FOR HEROES AND THE LONGRIDGE CRICKET AND HOCKEY CLUBS

This year, like every preceding one, Alan works out the route on his own. One man and his boots. One aim in mind – walking with a purpose. I’m mindful of a song with a powerful message – You’ll Never Walk Alone –to motivate us to put aside our difficulties, while achieving so much more when we work (or even walk) together. n

Anyone wishing to donate to this year’s Longridge 20/20 walk can go to the group’s Facebook page to do so.

Photography: Alan Heaton Photography:

EDUCATION NEWS

GIRL CRICKET CHAMPIONS

A series of outstanding, undefeated performances from the Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall girls’ cricket team saw them triumph at the Regional Indoor Competition at Bolton Arena to become North of England champions for the first time and secure a place at the Indoor National Final at Lords Cricket Ground this month. With the win, the girls are now among the top five teams in England, and even more extraordinary is that most of the team developed their cricket skills at Stonyhurst, with all the hard work now paying off having successfully competed against schools with county-level players.

SCIENTISTS OF THE FUTURE

As well as Oakhill’s Year 6 girls, the school invited girls from local primary schools to join them in a fun, hands-on day of STEM activities by taking part in the CREST Discovery Award. CREST is the British Science Association’s scheme for STEM project work that inspires young people to think and behave like scientists and engineers. Oakhill was joined by a guest speaker Rachel from BAE who talked to the girls about different careers and routes into STEM.

DERMOT O’LEARY VISIT

Westholme had the pleasure of welcoming Dermot O’Leary to the Croston Theatre to talk to Prep pupils about his new children’s book, Wings of Glory. Organised through independent coffee, book and gift shop, Book, Bean and Ice Cream in Kirkham, Dermot took to the stage to speak to pupils about the characters from his book and shared pictures from his own childhood to illustrate the important moments that shaped his love of reading and the inspiration behind his new novel. Dermot concluded his presentation with an excerpt from his book with the children then invited to partake in a drawalong activity of the book’s leading character, Linus. Westholme always strives to bring inspirational people into our students’ holistic experience, and Dermot’s visit will be talked about by all for years to come.

ENGINEER GOES BACK TO COLLEGE

An experienced engineer who graduated with distinction recently returned to Burnley College to inspire apprentices ahead of their final assessments. Scott Bentley explained how, instead of seeing their End Point Assessment (EPA) as a ‘final test’, they should see it as an opportunity to shine and express their passion for their subject. Scott, a Maintenance Engineer with VEKA PLC, the leading supplier of UPVC in the world, also shared his tips for career success with students.

HONOUR FOR HORTICULTURE STUDENTS

Five students on Lancashire Adult Learner’s (LAL) Level 1 course in Horticulture have been involved in rejuvenating the Accrington PALS memorial garden. Working in partnership with Hyndburn Borough Council, Lindsay Cook, Fran Morgan, Karen Pettitt, Ken Rishton, Raymond Watton, and their teacher Tom Butterworth have been helping to plant new trees within the garden – a key green space. Landscaping, including paving and lighting were updated before the planting phase began last month. This included learners from LAL who are currently on a Level 2 Horticulture. Sarah Haworth, Head of Curriculum for Horticulture at LAL, said: “It’s a really important, significant space for the people of Accrington – and it has been an honour to play a part in developing this green space.”

A NEW CAREER? IMMEDIATE START APPRENTICESHIP.

APPRENTICESHIPS TO PUT HEART OF YOUR IDEAL MATTER YOUR AGE, THE THEMIS WAY!

Apprenticeships from Level 2 Degree Apprenticeships knowledge and build simultaneously learning with at College you can:

MEN & WOMEN FOR OTHERS

Stonyhurst is a school where pupils have a vast array of opportunities that are both educational and character forming, developing well-rounded individuals who make a positive impact on the world around them

Imagine an education unlike anywhere else, where the links to the past are as strong as they are in creating bright futures, by shaping young people as confident, caring, global citizens through a broad curriculum, vast co-curricular opportunities and teaching based on values. Stonyhurst is that place. The only school in the county to feature in the renowned Tatler Schools Guide, pupils aged three to 18 years from all over the world, experience all that the school has to offer in terms of academia, sports, performing arts and charitable endeavours, while developing crucial life skills and lifelong friendships. Boarders in particular thrive in a seven-day-a-week home-from-home, benefitting greatly from living with their peers and learning about cultures different to their own.

Parents and children alike value the strong family identity of Stonyhurst, from the PrePrep at Hodder House, which is celebrating 20 years in 2024, through to the Prep School at St Mary’s Hall, which prolongs childhood by providing a much cherished ‘middle school’ option by going up to Year 8, allowing children a more positive transition to more senior education.

At the College, a wide range of learning styles and interests continue to be catered for, with A levels, the International Baccalaureate

Diploma and the Cambridge Technical in Business and Sport. This is alongside a comprehensive co-curricular provision, with exceptional facilities such as the tennis dome, observatory, swimming pool and dance studio, allowing new passions to be discovered and existing ones to flourish.

PARENTS

AND CHILDREN ALIKE VALUE THE STRONG FAMILY IDENTITY OF STONYHURST

Many of these activities take place on the school’s beautiful, 1,000-acre campus in the Ribble Valley – a setting that has inspired many minds over the last two centuries, including novelist Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and poet Gerard Manley Hopkins. Parity is ensured across the board in terms of opportunities, with a real girls’ sporting culture continuing to go from strength to strength, with recent Sixth Form leavers

representing England at international tournaments in rugby and cricket. The school also sees regular annual success in a range of other sports, including hockey and tennis, which is led by former professional and previous LTA Performance Coach of the Year winner, David Shaw.

Stonyhurst College is also home to the oldest museum in the English-speaking world, housing a fascinating collection of over 100,000 historic books and artefacts, dating back to the school’s origins in St Omer, France, in 1593. The museum and historic libraries are used regularly by all year groups to bring the curriculum to life, with topical exhibitions also held each year for members of the public and visiting schools. This recently included celebrating the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s First Folio and in 2024 exploring issues surrounding the changing natural world, with pupil research and curation shaping this exhibition.

Indeed, it is just one of many opportunities for pupils to get involved in the working aspect of the school, which is encouraged through the traditions of being the oldest continually active Jesuit school in the world. The values of the Jesuit Pupil Profile are woven into all areas of school life, centred on formation of the whole person, and creating ‘men and women for others’ – knowledgeable, compassionate and well-rounded individuals who strive to make a positive impact on their communities throughout their time at Stonyhurst and beyond. n

Stonyhurst Clitheroe, Lancashire BB7 9PZ 01254 827073

admissions@stonyhurst.ac.uk stonyhurst.ac.uk

STUDENTS INSPIRED

Top universities and leading businesses such as the BBC and KPMG attended an event designed to inspire Westholme students, planning the next stage of their educational journey

Westholme School recently opened its doors to students and their parents from across the region for a special University and Apprenticeship Fair, to inspire their next steps in education. Delegates from over 20 top higher education institutions travelled to the award-winning Pleasington school.

Representatives from universities including Leeds, Glasgow, Lancaster, Imperial College London together with businesses including the BBC, Warburtons, Booths, Panache Cruises and KPMG spoke to students on the night about the opportunities they could expect within their respective organisations. Head of Westholme’s INSPIRED Sixth Form, Jonathan Oracz, recounts the evening: “As Head of Sixth Form at Westholme School, I am passionate about providing students with every opportunity on the pathway to life beyond their A Levels. It was therefore a pleasure to put together our own recent University and Apprenticeship Fair, welcoming delegates into school for a special evening to inform, advise and enthuse students and families from across the region.

“I am very proud of our success as the 2023 Independent School of the Year for our Careers Programme. It is through the wider support and opportunities we provide for

our students, such as this event, that they have excelled in achieving highly coveted degree apprenticeships and university places.

“In addition to the numerous recruitment and outreach advisors from UK universities and leading companies, many recent Westholme graduates returned on the evening, representing the major companies

I AM VERY PROUD OF OUR SUCCESS AS THE 2023 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL OF THE YEAR FOR OUR CAREERS PROGRAMME

they are now privileged to be a part of. They hosted stalls to promote the Level 6 Degree Apprenticeships they were successful in achieving through the support given during their time at school. Seeing our alumni giving back to the school, grateful for what they were given and now wishing to give

other students the same opportunities they themselves were afforded, was truly a pleasure to behold. It’s a cycle of success that makes me incredibly proud.

“We welcomed students from Years 9 to 13 and I hope that all families who attended found it to be useful, no matter what year group they are in and that seeds of inspiration were planted, even for the younger year students. For Year 12 students, it was a fantastic opportunity to narrow down their options for that all-important next step in their education and potential career.

“At Westholme, we pride ourselves on providing our students with unrivalled holistic excellence and this recent University and Apprenticeship Fair is a great example of our team coming together to do the very best for our students, giving them the best possible opportunities in taking the next steps towards making their career aspirations a reality.” n

To find out more about Westholme’s INSPIRED Sixth Form, please visit: westholmeschool.com or contact admissions at: registrar@westholmeschool.com

Westholme

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

The success story that is Crow Wood Leisure is about to become an iconic destination on the UK map, having undergone an impressive multi-million-pound extension that will see it become arguably the largest and most luxurious spa in the country.

The man behind Crow Wood is Andrew Brown, who has invested £16 million in this new development that will see the original, and not insignificant, 30,000 sq ft spa double in size to a huge 60,000 sq ft, featuring:

• The dramatic Vitality Pool boasting no less than four spacious hot tubs, two of which are elevated with an infinity edge, a variety of water canons and massage stations and a gentle rain shower which falls softly to the pool to relaxing effect

• A fabulous, barrel-vaulted ceiling is best appreciated from the ergonomic heated

A

new £16 million development in the heart of the Lancashire countryside, is set to become one of the UK’s largest, luxury spas

loungers, accessed via the heated poolside promenade

• A mezzanine featuring a variety of bespoke relaxation areas with sensory lighting

• A world-leading, multi-sensory KLAFS ice lounge – the first in the UK and inspired by Scandinavian culture and science-backed benefits of heat/ice experiences

WE BELIEVE WE HAVE CREATED SOMETHING INCREDIBLY SPECIAL

• Roman foot baths featuring foot reflexology massage designed to target specific pressure points and stimulate a refreshing energy flow throughout the entire body

• Additional luxury spa treatment rooms and changing facilities

• Spacious and beautiful relaxation room providing the ultimate, peaceful environment, perfect for recharging and meditation

• A south-facing rooftop terrace giving prominence to the UK’s largest hot tub, with its infinity edge affording surprising views stretching into the distance to the hills. A range of sun loungers upon which to make the most of the warmth afforded by this south-facing suntrap, comfortable firepit lounge areas and a rooftop restaurant and bar with retractable roof and windows

• Impressive full refurbishment including a significant extension to Bertram’s Restaurant with a new state-of-the-art kitchen, which in itself will be one of the largest in the UK

• Imposing double-height welcoming reception and beautiful guest areas

“It’s all about the guest journey and experience,” says Andrew. “The new spa will be more impressive, even in comparison to what we had before.”

Andrew first acquired the 100-acre Crow Wood site 23 years ago and developed a member-only health club and spa before subsequently redeveloping the spa 11 years ago. Originally travelling the UK visiting other spas to find out what spa clients wanted from their visit, Andrew says: “We are now drawing on 11 years’ of experience and armed with that knowledge, we believe we have created something incredibly special.

“We know what people enjoy and we know what they have come to expect. In terms of turnover, square footage and the number of visitors we are anticipating, this is arguably the biggest and best spa in the UK.”

The latest development has been three years in the making as Andrew explains: “Back in 2020, people just couldn’t book into the spa as it was that busy. It was permanently booked solid – we were so busy we were having to turn guests away.”

fast become the area’s wedding venue of choice and also hosts other events from dinner dances to corporate conferences.

First and foremost, however, the resort hotel affords spa visitors the opportunity to enjoy a short break and make the most of all that this destination has to offer. Spa break guests can experience the relaxing thermal experiences and pools, a luxurious treatment in one of the new treatment rooms and enjoy a choice of exceptional dining experiences in one of the resort’s award-winning Rosette restaurants, share tapas on the terrace or maybe kick back and indulge in pizza in the new rooftop restaurant.

All the necessary infrastructure has also been installed to make the spa highly efficient with the lowest environmental impact. Huge boiler rooms housing heating systems, plumbing and all the complex gadgetry to service the latest high-tech equipment are hidden away in a maze of ground-floor corridors, which also lead to some much-enhanced colleague changing and relaxation areas.

Realising the need to expand to accommodate demand, Andrew and his management team, collaborated with architects, builders and spa and leisure specialists to design his vision for the future of Crow Wood’s resort, choosing the very best, world-class equipment and materials.

Today, this stunning redevelopment is almost ready. The spa extension will seamlessly integrate with the existing facilities, which have won multiple globally-recognised awards and currently holds the Good Spa Guide Awards title of Best UK Hotel Spa. If all goes to plan, the spa will be unveiled and open to guests sometime in July and it will not disappoint even the most experienced spa aficionado.

Andrew has continually invested in Crow Wood. The member-only gym recently underwent a £2 million transformation and features dedicated studios for yoga, dance and aerobics-based workouts and one of the most technologically advanced spinning studios in the UK.

In 2019, at a cost of £13.6 million, the resort’s 76-bedroomed hotel launched. Located within its own 50-acre parkland, which is also home to a variety of wildlife and deer, the hotel has

Crow Wood is a destination in itself, with the Woodland Spa at its centre. Due to the sheer number of experiences available, it will attract visitors from all over the UK – the emphasis on quality and pure enjoyment has been factored in at every turn and the reputation for quality is synonymous with the Crow Wood brand.

Behind the scenes, the resort places high importance on its environmental commitment – an enormous solar array is being installed, which will drastically reduce the use of non-renewable energy.

Speaking of the development, Andrew adds: “We have the capacity to double guest numbers in line with the sheer size of the spa. However, we won’t be doing that, instead we see this as another opportunity to enhance our guest experience, ensuring that we maintain an intimate and exclusive atmosphere. The aim of this project has always been to produce a world-class spa and offer affordable exclusivity – and that’s exactly what we have achieved.”

The new Crow Wood spa is due to open in July 2024. The Woodland Spa is inviting guests to register to be one of the very first to experience it when it opens its doors. n

thewoodandspa.com

BUSINESS MATTERS

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

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

NEW STORE

Ribble Valley-based Loom Loft furniture and interiors have opened a new store and bistro at Trident Retail Park on Port Way. The store has been working with artist Shawn Sharpe to create a monumental mural which is a tribute to Preston docks.

Shawn who has been a graffiti/street artist for 15 years, focuses on large-scale murals that celebrate the region’s rich history and culture.

Tracy Leeming, Marketing Manager at Loom Loft, said:

“As soon as we decided to open our new store at the docks we identified a space that was perfect for a large mural and wanted to work with Shawn as we were familiar with his amazing work.

“As a company we pride ourselves on sourcing our products from Lancashire suppliers and manufacturers and so we were excited to approach and work with a local artist on our venture. It’s been a pleasure to work with Shawn and the final mural is truly spectacular, it is a great central feature and talking point.”

Shawn added: “When I heard the brief, I knew I wanted to incorporate the docklands into the mural and pay homage to its rich history. I am unaware of any retail stores in the UK that have large-scale murals indoors, making it a unique space.

“It’s been a pleasure to work with Loom Loft, they gave me a lot of creative freedom, allowing me to bring the best out of a space where you wouldn’t normally expect a mural. It’s the perfect backdrop to showcase what Loom Loft does.”

Similar to Loom Loft’s first store on the Barrow Brook business village just outside of Clitheroe, the new store offers an extensive range of trend setting items and an eclectic mix of sofas, dining sets, occasional furniture and home accessories.

This is Loom Loft’s fourth store and also includes its second Loft Bistro with a chic industrial feel. The bistro, which has proven to be a popular and enjoyable concept at the Barrow store, features a diverse menu crafted by a talented culinary team, great for informal breakfasts, lunches, business meetings and catching up with friends.

A SELL OUT

The new Preston Symphony Orchestra’s first-ever performance An Evening of Popular Music from Stage and Screen has been a complete sell-out. The concert due to take place on 9th June will feature the orchestra performing music from Phantom of the Opera, Jurassic Park, James Bond and an ABBA medley.

Local individuals and businesses including Porsche Centre Preston, have supported a successful crowdfunding campaign that helped with initial funding.

Alexander Roe MBE, the orchestra’s marketing and publicity manager, said: “We are especially grateful to Lancashire County Council, Porsche Centre Preston and all those private individuals who have supported us. From funding to ticket sales, their support has surpassed all our expectations.” Last month, the newly founded orchestra confirmed two new appointments. Marco Giudici from Lancaster has joined as musical director and John Chapman from Standish near Wigan is Marco’s associate conductor.

FAMILY, FUTURE & FREEDOM

The team at Two10 Investment Services explains how we can plan for our financial future

Two10 Investment Services in Longridge has recently been awarded Top Rated Adviser status in the latest VouchedFor listings. This prestigious accolade comes after rigorous scrutiny by the independent body. Only 112 financial services businesses in the UK made the grade a nd there were no others in the Ribble Valley Live Ribble Valley went to meet Sarah Carlin, Director and Chief Operating Officer, Wealth Managers and Financial Planners Clementine Bell, Will Heane and Andrew Barr and Laura Taylor, Client Services Manager from Two10 to understand what makes this company so special.

LRV: Congratulations on your recent award, you must be absolutely thrilled?

SC: “Thank you, we are delighted not just for ourselves but for what this means for our clients. Two10 Investment Services is a relatively new business. We have designed

our processes using great technology supporting a client centric ethos. The changing regulatory environment in which we operate, particularly the recent Consumer Duty introduced by the Financial Conduct Authority, increases our need to communicate effectively with our clients at all points. We have enhanced the number of touch points with our clients and built a whole team approach to communications and processes. We have encouraged our clients to give us regular feedback on our performance and their experience with us and acted upon this feedback.”

LRV: What is the best thing about working with Two10?

CB: “It must be the sense of helping people. We help our clients understand their current financial situation and design a plan to help them achieve their longer-term financial goals. Those may be centred on retirement, planning future care needs or helping their family with education or housing. That plan is continuously monitored to ensure it meets our clients’ requirements.”

LRV: You must get to know your clients very well during the time you are working with them.

WH: “Our clients come to us at different stages on their financial journey. The Two10 client base is diverse with tradespeople, retailers, graphic designers, engineers and marketeers all benefitting from the Two10 approach to investing for their future. Age is no barrier with the advice always that the sooner you start your investment journey, the better.”

AB: “Our lives are complicated, time-starved and ever evolving. However, in speaking to potential clients, three priorities emerged: family, future and freedom. The responsibilities of the ‘three Fs’ can be overwhelming at times. Having a financial plan, conceived with the client at its centre, can lift that anxiety and embed habits that will stand each client in good stead. These clients are though serious about their financial future and this is where we can help. The Two10 service is particularly appropriate to regular contributions being made towards a long-term goal.”

THE

RESPONSIBILITIES

OF THE ‘THREE FS’ CAN BE OVERWHELMING AT TIMES. HAVING A FINANCIAL PLAN, CONCEIVED WITH THE CLIENT AT ITS CENTRE, CAN LIFT THAT ANXIETY AND EMBED GOOD FINANCIAL HABITS

LRV: What would you say to somebody reading this who may be unsure whether their current financial plan is good enough?

SC: “You have nothing to lose by contacting us and having a free initial consultation. We are very motivated to ensure that everyone achieves the best financial outcome possible and reaps the benefits of their careers. We will give you an honest assessment of what is possible.” n

To meet the Two10 team in person call 01772 970470 or email: info@two10investmentservices.co.uk

Risk Warning: With investing, your capital is at risk.

Two10 Investment Services Ltd

8 Berry Lane, Longridge Preston PR3 3JA 01772 970470

info@two10investmentservices.co.uk two10investmentservices.co.uk

KILLER FINANCE FOR GROWING BUSINESSES

Local businessman Marc McLoughlin has returned to his entrepreneurial roots to launch Orca Finance – driven by his passion for supporting businesses and the people behind them, writes Gail Bailey

“Our mission is to help businesses to get access to the finance they need to maximise their opportunities for growth and success,” explains Marc McLoughlin, the founder of Orca Finance.

“We’re all about helping great businesses run by great people – especially those who are out there making a difference, building

thriving purpose-driven, people-centric organisations in their communities. We want to make sure those with excellent ideas don’t see finance as an obstacle.”

Marc, familiar to many in the region from his previous business KeyFleet, has nearly three decades of experience in the finance and leasing sector, having started as an apprentice with Haydock Finance in 1996. KeyFleet, which focused on finance and leasing of

Photography: Kirsten Platt

vehicles, was sold in 2022 to green technology business, Greenarc, and after a short spell integrating the business with the new ownership, Marc is now back with startup Orca, providing finance and loans to businesses across Lancashire and the North West.

THERE’S SUCH A DIVERSE RANGE OF LENDERS AND FINANCE PRODUCTS OUT THERE, THAT’S WHY OUR CLIENTS NEED ORCA TO PACKAGE THE PERFECT DEAL

Originally from Great Harwood, Marc’s drive to support businesses comes from his own experience, and knowing first-hand how quickly things can change: “My dad, John, owned snooker and bingo halls in the 70s and 80s and was an incredibly charismatic man who enjoyed great success – he even managed Alex Higgins and several other snooker players over the years. However, by the 90s, due to the pressures of the business in a changing market, and perhaps a few wrong turns, he was taken ill suddenly when I was only 12 and our whole life was turned upside down when he passed away at just 57. I know only too well the devastating impact it can have on the whole family when a business fails – and this is my ‘why’ and my inspiration to help other people be successful and achieve their business goals.”

Being an independent credit brokerage, Orca offers flexible and simple finance for small to medium businesses for machinery, equipment and vehicles – and solutions for commercial loans, invoices and property finance: “The business was many months in the making,” explains Marc.

Even the name Orca was a considered decision aligned with the company’s ethos and values: “The Orca is a great brand concept and they really are awesome creatures with some amazing behaviours and traits such as expert communication, complex social structures, empathy, curiosity and teamwork –and that’s what we are all about!

“I know clients feel that they are in safe hands when they work with us. We’re part of a national broker network lending over £1.5b each year and we have the trust of over 100 lenders who are ready and keen to help fund exciting new and existing businesses. In our portfolio are high street banks and household names, but many are lenders you know little about and would struggle to identify in the open market. There’s such a diverse range of lenders and finance products

out there, that’s why our clients need Orca to package the perfect deal and provider for your business needs.”

Marc is joined at Orca by friend and former colleague, Rob Cassidy, who brings a wealth of marketing and business development experience with over 30 years in the sector: “Rob and I understand how important it is to build relationships and communicate with business owners,” says Marc. “Our joined-up ethos of putting people first is at the core of our business. Along with passion and purpose, this is paramount to our success.”

AT ORCA FINANCE

THE MESSAGE IS CLEAR –COMPANY FINANCE SHOULDN’T BE A MYSTERY

Nowhere does communication work better than by networking and you will regularly see the team out and about across the county and beyond: “We are involved with the East Lancs and Manchester Chambers of Commerce and other networks too and we try to get involved in events and partnerships as much as possible,” he says. “It’s great to meet other businesspeople and be part of a community, organising and attending events, sharing information, best practice and supporting each other – it’s good for business and it’s good fun too!”

At Orca Finance the message is clear –company finance shouldn’t be a mystery. Whatever the size of a business, easy-to-

understand financing options that fit the business needs are a must. And importantly the face-to-face approach means you have a personal contact managing your finance application – both reassuring and stress free!

“We launched in April and have already been able to help many businesses arrange asset finance and loans,” Marc says. “We take time to find out the story each business has –to look beyond the numbers and see the narrative. The more information we have the more we communicate to the lender and importantly, match the right lender to the right business.”

Some companies already benefitting from Orca Finance deals range from larger haulage companies and manufacturers to smaller businesses as varied as dog trainers and beauticians: “Finance is the fuel for growth, and we feel honoured to be back working from our Brockhall base supporting local companies and making an impact on their businesses, lives and communities.” n

Orca Finance

The Podquarters

9 Conference Centre Offices Brockhall Village, Old Langho BB6 8AY 01200 504032

info@orcafin.co.uk orcafin.co.uk

THE PERFECT PACKAGE FOR BUSINESS OWNERS

Hailed as ‘Lancashire’s most approachable accountancy experts’, Kate Bowyer chats to McDade Roberts Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers’ director, Christine Richards, talking empowerment, expertise and peace of mind

When you start your own business, everything’s on you, but as it grows, financial hesitancy over increasing financial complexity: compliance, tax, staffing and expansion, can hold you hostage to fortune at a crucial time. With many successful businesses reaching this stage, proactive chartered accountants and business experts McDade Roberts have put together the perfect package to support entrepreneurs through successful continued growth.

“There are plenty of ambitious Lancashire businesses who are outgrowing their existing finance systems,” explains Christine, co-director alongside Kevin Carey and Martin Garry. “Not quite ready for the commitment of an in-house Finance Director – or the hefty salary – lack of strategic financial expertise could be holding them back.”

Shining a financial light on the next direction for businesses of all types and sizes, McDade Roberts’ outsourced finance director package provides the

MCDADE ROBERTS’ OUTSOURCED FINANCE DIRECTOR PACKAGE PROVIDES THE SERVICES OF AN APPROACHABLE FINANCE EXPERT TO CLARIFY STRATEGIC DIRECTION AND MAKE SENSE OF THE NUMBERS

Their warmly welcoming attitude is clear from my arrival at McDade Roberts’ offices in Fulwood, Preston. No rented floor in a characterless business park, the attractive red-brick Victorian Villa situated conveniently on Blackpool Road has good parking and smiling greetings. Their ‘MR Finance Director Service’ is finding an equally warm welcome among the local business community.

services of an approachable finance expert to clarify strategic direction and make sense of the numbers.

“We’re great believers in focusing on what you are good at, and building a team to do the rest,” says Christine. “Outsourcing to experts makes total sense in terms of finance, time, compliance and success.

“Getting to know each client and their business inside out,

Great examples of success themselves, the McDade Roberts team now employ more than 30 talented and friendly accountants, tax specialists, financial advisers and associate consultants.

McDade Roberts have an equally welcoming office in Chapel Hill, Longridge, ideally placed for their many agricultural clients. n Call 01772 717110 to arrange your friendly free in-person initial consultation with one of McDade Roberts’ directors, or visit: mcdaderoberts.co.uk to find out more. It could be the most freeing business decision you ever make.

McDade Roberts

we create a bespoke contract to do whatever your business requires. Costing just a fraction of employing a full-time in-house financial director, you also benefit from our full team’s years of daily, diverse experience.”

Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers 316 Blackpool Road Fulwood PR2 3AE 01772 717110 office@mcdaderoberts.co.uk mcdaderoberts.co.uk

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SEEING IS BELIEVING

Experiencing the new BMW 5 Series is a joy to behold. Dynamic and athletic, is it the best BMW ever? Paul Agnew finds out more.

Photography: Peter Austin

The BMW 5 Series has always had a special place in the hearts of motoring aficionados. An extra special place.

Those informed and passionate folk who know what they like, know what they want and, to be fair, know what they are talking about.

But is it the best BMW ever?

Perhaps this isn’t the platform for such a debate, but I’ll tell you this much – the new model certainly has a claim on the title.

With an enhanced sportier exterior design, stunning high-gloss black elements and a clean and refined style, this is a car of gold medal proportions.

Modern motoring elegance.

The striking kidney grille and adaptive LED headlights characterise the front profile and there is true dynamism at the rear with ultra slim LED tail lights and sculpted air channelling elements.

Magnificent, athletic and oozing character, it’s the business.

To see it, to experience it and to drive it is a joy. Who wouldn’t want it parked on their drive?

The new BMW 5 Series scores across all categories – stature, shape, style, performance and personality.

For the purposes of this review, we’re focusing on the BMW 520i (petrol although electric and hybrid options are available).

On the subject of reviews, the tough guys of the motoring media are falling over themselves in adulation: “Given that BMW itself calls the BMW 5 Series the ‘core and heart’ of its brand, the arrival of a new one is a much bigger event than yet another SUV rolling off the line.”

WHILE THE TECHNOLOGY AND DIGITAL ELEMENTS ARE VERY NEARLY OFF THE SCALE, IT SOMEHOW SEEMS MORE MINIMALIST IN OVERALL APPEARANCE

“The BMW 5 Series is a hugely capable, beautifully built and spacious premium saloon that’s also great to drive. Arguably, it is one of the most complete cars on sale today.”

Not a bad start.

So what makes it so good?

Well it certainly looks the part, a big car by any standard and packed to the brim with amazing gadgets and jaw-dropping technology.

As an example, you can (using Parking Assist Pro via the incredible BMW app) get out of the car, programme your mobile

phone and watch it park in your chosen place (well chosen by the car itself actually) without any involvement on your part.

Seeing is believing.

But while the technology and digital elements are very nearly off the scale, it somehow seems more minimalist in overall appearance.

The internal air vents and door handles are hidden. ‘Hey BMW’ voice command is there (of course) and there are any number of driving modes which you can set according to your mood.

As for the information centre, that’s a wonder to behold. I’ve been to cinemas with smaller screens and the amount of this-andthat you can find is simply mind blowing.

Please take the level of comfort, driving position and road handling as read. Superb.

As for the mechanical and technical bits, on this four-cylinder petrol model you can expect considerably north of 40mpg (very impressive for a car of this size) and a capability to reach 62mph from a standing start in around seven seconds.

Should you be in a rush to get from A to B, well, will 146 mph suffice?

Since it was launched in 1972, every subsequent ‘new’ BMW 5 Series has set progressive standards for whatever era, but this refreshed, elegantly sculpted version leaves no-one in any doubt about the sporty credentials.

GET OUT OF THE CAR, PROGRAMME YOUR MOBILE PHONE AND WATCH IT PARK IN YOUR CHOSEN PLACE WITHOUT ANY INVOLVEMENT ON YOUR PART

As for feeling connected – an absolute must these days – you can expect ultimate flexibility and freedom at your fingertips, thanks to BMW ConnectedDrive.

Offering a suite of class-leading technologies and connectivity features, you have everything you need before, during and after your journey.

And, thanks to the BMW Operating System 8.5 (included as standard) there is a multimedia experience second to none, making every journey ultra personal.

Not forgetting a host of music technology to ensure the right backing track is there to suit your mood.

A complete car in every respect, the new BMW 5 Series – who could ask for anything more? n

Bowker Blackburn Trident Park, Trident Way Blackburn BB1 3NU 01254 274444

bowkerblackburnbmw.co.uk

@BowkerBMW

@bmw_bowker

bowker-motor-group

A TOUCH OF CLASS

The Porsche Taycan 4S Cross Turismo is a sophisticated, joyous, all-electric drive that is nigh on unbeatable, writes Paul Agnew. Photography: Peter Austin

What makes a great car manufacturer? Well, aside from the obvious, comes an overriding obsession to be stand-out. To never settle, to go in search of perfection.

Irrespective of the merits of their many creations over time – or the plaudits they receive along the way – the truly great manufacturers (and their design teams) never stop seeking something even better. Take Porsche, or to be more specific the impressive all-electric Taycan, a sports car par excellence which first appeared on our roads to universal acclaim five years ago.

At the launch, one reviewer termed it ‘unbeatable’, but the Porsche design team were having none of it.

Back to the studio of dreams, they set out to beat the unbeatable.

And guess what? They’ve only gone and done it!

For the new all-electric Taycan is a genuine head-turner of a sports car – premier in every aspect and an absolute joy to drive.

It would be misleading to say it has had a facelift – everything was already top drawer. Better to call it a re-fresh, made up of impressive tweaks to produce an even sleeker look, countless additional comforts

and some mind-boggling technology.

But maybe the most significant difference centres around efficiency and this is completely due to the introduction of a larger battery.

A much larger battery, which delivers a range increase of up to 35 per cent to a maximum of 421 miles/678 kilometres (WLTP) and all models can charge from a 10 per cent to 80 per cent state in just 18 minutes.

Impressive statistics indeed and a fond

farewell to so-called range anxiety.

And if that’s not enough, a sophisticated ‘route planner’ (optional) will not only identify when a top-up is required but take you straight to the nearest charging point while you just sit there, steer and marvel.

There are three Taycan models from which to make your choice – the Sport Saloon, the Sport Turismo and the Cross Turismo. I was handed the keys to the 4S Cross Turismo for what was to be a truly joyous test drive.

IT’S QUITE REMARKABLE TO BE TOLD THAT YOU CAN TAKE A CAR AS BEAUTIFUL AS THIS OFF ROAD, BUT YOU BETTER BELIEVE IT

All-wheel drive automatic in a stunning exterior colour ‘Crayon’ with a smooth finish black leather interior, the ride was fabulous thanks in no small part to the improved air suspension.

Such comfort, so quiet (although you can, if you wish, have ‘sport sound’ of course) and crammed with every gadget imaginable and a host of high-end features.

The detail, the touches that make Porsche what it is – a king amongst cars.

From the huge panoramic roof to the BOSE surround sound system, from the privacy glass to the adaptive front sports seats (18-way, electric with memory) from the 21-inch design wheels to the HD matrix LED headlights –everything comes with a touch of class.

Not forgetting all the individual manufacturer’s touches like the Porsche crests on headrests, light strip with illuminated Porsche logo and the iconic Porsche clock in pride of place on the dashboard.

And what a dashboard! Big and clear and easy to see and negotiate with information you may, could and probably will require at every point of the journey. You’re never out there alone in a Taycan – help is always a fingertip away.

It’s quite remarkable to be told that you can take a car as beautiful as this off road, but you better believe it (it even has concealed bicycle carriers).

So, if you are looking for the ultimate electric vehicle driving experience but have a

family to suit and crave extra practicality, the Taycan Cross Turismo is just about spot on.

With a larger boot, more space in the rear area and greater visibility, this car is also perfectly able to cope with road surfaces that have seen better days.

A

SOPHISTICATED, OPTIONAL ‘ROUTE PLANNER’ WILL NOT ONLY IDENTIFY WHEN A TOP-UP IS REQUIRED BUT TAKE YOU STRAIGHT TO THE NEAREST CHARGING POINT

This car is basically an alluring combination of style, interior well-being, luxury and technology with a hunger to eat up the road.

A car with a history that is all about tomorrow, but available today.

Talking of which, Porsche Centre Preston assure me that the Taycan is ready and waiting to be driven, enjoyed and ordered –and delivered in pretty swift time.

Ferdinand Porsche, the man behind the brand, once said: “I couldn’t find the sports car of my dreams, so I built it myself.”

Ferdinand wasn’t named car designer of the 20th century for nothing and fair to say that he would be immensely proud of the nigh-on unbeatable all-electric Taycan. n

Porsche Centre Preston Centenary House Watery Lane, Preston PR2 1QJ 01772 911911

porschepreston.co.uk

@PorscheCentrePreston

@Porsche_Preston

@Porsche_Preston

JOIN THE CLUB!

Friends and business partners

Ben Slaven and Andy Edwards are enjoying global success in the golf clothing industry, writes Carol Wilson

As youngsters, Ben Slaven and Andy Edwards grew up on the greens of Wilpshire Golf Club. And as business partners, they are helping golfers stay fashionable on the fairways.

The duo set up online golf attire company Function18.com, somewhat fittingly, 18 years ago.

Ben admits they went into the business side of things blind: “We didn’t know anything about the online space when we got going. We learnt as we went along,” he says.

But their eyes remain open to an everevolving golf clothing industry that is both functional and fashionable – hence the name.

“Our brand was based on the idea that you have to get dressed up for golf, so the clothing was for the function, for the 18 holes,” explains Ben, whose dad, Walter, served as Wilpshire Golf Club’s professional for 30 years, retiring in 2016.

THERE’S A COUNTRY CLUB MENTALITY AT THE BIG COURSES IN AMERICA. IT’S A LIFESTYLE CHOICE PLAYING GOLF

The path Ben has trodden seems a natural one, given that Walter also ran a golf shop alongside his playing commitments. But there was a diversion along the way.

“I went to Leeds University and was doing a mechanical engineering degree, so completely different to what I ended up getting into. I realised it wasn’t for me,” says Ben, 44.

“I wanted to be an architect when I was at school.

“I’ve always been kind of on the fence between creativity, science and academia but ended up in retail. I love the variety of our work, I love the speed at which things change in online businesses and the flexibility that is essential for survival.

“The industry’s exciting again and now there’s a bit more creativity in it. Most people used to think that golf wasn’t a very creative sport but I think it’s leaning more that way. And it’s certainly becoming more relaxed in terms of what people are wearing.

“Golf style has changed a lot. For the best really – more relaxed. We’ve sold a lot of waterproofs recently because of the poor early season weather, but generally we sell a lot of hoodies, joggers and golf shoes that look more like trainers, which some PGA Tour players now wear, and in doing so have since become more acceptable on UK golf courses.”

Function18 stemmed from Fairway Golf Shops, where Ben was employed by Andy after leaving university.

“We did that for a couple of years and then we realised that we needed to do something that was a little bit different,” Ben continues.

“The business model wasn’t hugely successful, so we needed to try to find another way of giving ourselves a career path.

“It was the lack of control that we had with the shops. Getting the sales through the door was more difficult than it felt like it needed to be.

“Online retail was fairly well established with some golf retailers but there were one or two that were purely golf apparel and that’s the area that we wanted to focus on.”

From their headquarters on Longsight Road in Mellor, they have built up a global customer base over almost two decades of trade, riding the storms of Brexit and a pandemic, and attracting stars of other sports including football, surfing and ice hockey.

“There are a lot of surfers and skateboarders who play golf, it’s a sub-culture that you wouldn’t expect but there’s a big link between surfing and golf on the west coast of the States in particular,” said Ben, who once interviewed former Masters champion Sergio Garcia over a cheese and ham toastie at Wentworth.

“I think there’s a lot of that LA culture but also I think it’s the appreciation of the outdoors.

“Professional surfboarders and skateboarders can’t play contact sports because they’ve got to be really protective of their ankles and joints, but they enjoy the challenge and

being in touch with nature.

“There are a lot of footballers who play golf because it’s basically the only sport they can play outdoors without getting injured.

“But it’s also very tough to master, so if they are competitive and they like a challenge, which sports professionals always do, then it’s a great thing for them to get into.

A LOT OF SURFERS AND SKATEBOARDERS PLAY GOLF, IT’S A SUB-CULTURE THAT YOU WOULDN’T EXPECT BUT THERE’S A BIG LINK BETWEEN THE TWO ON THE WEST COAST OF THE STATES

“We’ve got a lot of customers who are footballers, and not just in the UK – some Dutch players – all over the world really.

“We’re a worldwide business with about 40 per cent of our business going overseas,” Ben explains.

“America, South Korea is a big golfing region, and Australia. They’re the three biggest regions for us overseas.

“Instagram and Facebook are great to stay in touch with those consumers and to keep on top of the trends as well, because the demographic is completely different in America, the golf style is different and the way that they play the game socially is different. There’s less rain, which is a big part of it. But there’s a country club mentality at the big courses in America. It’s a lifestyle choice playing golf, it’s a long way detached from a slog round the Lancashire hills!”

While there has been less of that so far this year, with record rainfall delaying the start of the season in this region and beyond, golf as a leisure pursuit has taken a back seat in general for Ben since the birth of his daughter 10 years ago.

But from a professional point of view, business is booming thanks to a boost in golfing memberships after the pandemic, so expanding into a bigger unit is in the pipeline: “I think the game’s in a brilliant place and as a business, so are we.” n

RACING AHEAD…

These limited-edition pieces of artwork depicting the fast-paced world of motor racing, have a fresh new look for the 2024 season.

Photography: JEP/BMW UK

As the 2024 British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) gets underway, West Surrey Racing (WSR) have announced their continued partnership with renowned motorsport design studio Racing Line Designs.

The renewed collaboration means that Racing Line Designs will once again create a

limited-edition bespoke piece of artwork for each round of the BTCC, starting from the Donington Park season-opener.

Prints of the artwork, which have a fresh new look for 2024, will be distributed to VIP guests of WSR and its partners on-site at each event and will be available to purchase in sizes from A4 up to A0, immediately

afterwards online.

A limited number will also be signed by Team BMW drivers Colin Turkington and Adam Morgan, who is from the Ribble Valley. Morgan is now firmly established as one of the stars of the British Touring Car Championship.

Switching to BMW machinery with his family’s Ciceley Motorsport squad in 2021, he scored three wins and finished second in the following year’s Independents’ Championship.

Joining Team BMW – the manufacturer’s official UK team run by 16-time BTCC title-

Artwork:

Racing Line Designs

winners WSR – in 2023, Morgan scored the first of four podium finishes on his debut weekend at Donington Park and this year, driving a hybrid BMW 330e M Sport, has set his sights on adding to his 11 career wins and 41 podium finishes.

The creator of the limited-edition prints, Racing Line Designs was established in 2015 by James Potts initially focusing on creative pieces for private sale and display, including a number of popular artworks based on WSR-built BMW racing cars.

The studio has expanded in recent years to create official artwork and liveries for a customer base including IMSA and the European Le Mans Series as well as competitors

A LIMITED NUMBER WILL BE SIGNED BY TEAM BMW DRIVERS COLIN TURKINGTON AND RIBBLE VALLEY-BASED ADAM MORGAN

in the FIA World Endurance Championship and Le Mans 24 Hours.

Carl Mitchell, Sporting & Operations Manager for WSR, said: “We were very happy with the response to our partnership with Racing Line Designs across the latter half of 2023. The artwork was unique and wellreceived by racing fans and by our guests, so it was a no-brainer to continue for a full season in 2024. We look forward to seeing what the team comes up with across the year.”

Racing Line Designs founder, James Potts, added: “It’s an absolute pleasure to continue our collaboration with WSR on this project. We look forward to creating more artwork in 2024 that fans of WSR, BMW and touring car racing will love.”

WSR was founded by Dick Bennetts in 1981and is one of Europe’s most successful

racing teams, having tasted success with world champion drivers such as Ayrton Senna, Mika Hakkinen, Tom Kristensen, Nigel Mansell, Allan McNish and Andy Priaulx. After becoming the most successful team in the British Formula 3 Championship

during the 1980s, WSR moved into the BTCC and have continued their extraordinary run of success. n

The limited-edition prints and signed limited-edition prints are available to buy via the Racing Line Designs website.

racinglinedesigns.co.uk

SWEETEN YOUR WEEK…

Indulge in a delectable treat, hand crafted in the Ribble Valley by brothers Shane and Tom Hollinrake

Two brothers are forging ahead in a new and innovative way with their popular dessert-making business that sees them delivering delicious, sweet treats across the UK.

Shane and Tom Hollinrake set up Shane’s Desserts to supply small shops and cafes with their many and varied tarts, cheesecakes,

traybakes and biscuits. Today, their bakes have a burgeoning reputation thanks to the premier ingredients used and the brothers’ individual talents.

AT THE MOMENT WE ARE DEVELOPING WARM DESSERTS INCLUDING

STICKY TOFFEE PUDDING, CHOCOLATE FUDGE CAKE AND FRUIT CRUMBLES

Both from hospitality and catering backgrounds, Shane is a pastry chef having trained at Michelin-starred Northcote under

mentor and Executive Chef Lisa GoodwinAllen and Nigel Haworth, who now heads up the Three Fishes at Mitton.

Tom is a trained butcher at Holmes Mill Food Hall and he helps with the marketing and media side of Shane’s Desserts as well as helping in the kitchen and dispatching orders.

Raised in Sabden, the brothers went to Ribblesdale High School in Clitheroe before embarking on their careers: “Dad has his own construction business and mum had her own business on Clitheroe Market so it came as no surprise that we wanted to start our own business – we were brought up with that mindset,” says Shane.

With Tom on board, the pair moved into a unit on Mitton Road Business Park a year ago, kitting it out with everything needed to bake beautiful desserts: “Our aim has been to get our name out there and forge collaborations with local businesses in the Ribble Valley and beyond,” says Tom.

“Ideally we would like to collaborate and supply afternoon teas and wedding parties as well as restaurants, cafes and shops.”

The success behind this small business lies in the brothers’ eye for detail and their commitment to using first class ingredients, such as premier brand Callebaut chocolate and infusing fresh vanilla into their bakes: “We bake every day and while the best ingredients cost more, we don’t want to compromise on taste – we would rather spend more on ingredients and make less profit. It is very important to us to use only the best,” says Shane.

Always keeping his eye on social media, Tom adds: “Pecan pie is really popular at the moment as well as our treacle tart, which always sells out. We also do lemon and custard tarts and we are currently developing other, more complex tarts too.”

Having set up the online side of the business, Tom and Shane are particularly mindful of which items ship well and others that don’t: “We don’t send out tarts or cheesecakes but there’s lots of other bakes that travel well – brownies, flapjacks, cookies, rocky roads – you just have to look online to see the many and varied items that we make and send across the country.”

Closer to home, they now hold a regular Saturday pop-up outside their Unit 6 workplace from 9am to 3pm, giving locals the chance to try a slice of tart, a cookie, a cheesecake or home made chocolates –whatever the boys have decided to make that day it will be fresh out of the oven and totally delicious! Customers can also place a pop-up, pre-order online too.

The easy-to-navigate website demonstrates the wide variety available – among the best sellers are white chocolate and Lotus rocky road, Lotus millionaire and chocolate ganache brownie. “Trends are constantly changing and we happily go along with them. From millionaire shortbread which has been very popular, as well as the Lotus biscoff trend, we can bake anything and you can be sure it

will be super tasty!” says Tom.

“With Shane’s skills, we have refined traditional traybakes to give them that luxury finish without the luxury price tag.”

“We love experimenting,” adds Shane. “We are always evolving in what we are doing and making and at the moment we are developing warm desserts including

sticky toffee pudding, chocolate fudge cake and fruit crumbles – something that customers can pick up and just put in the oven when they get home for something really delicious.”

Working from 7am in the morning, Shane and Tom, who are helped out with deliveries by their mum Jennifer, take orders for next-day delivery up until 2pm.

Shane concludes: “Ultimately our aim is to build a strong local reputation along with supplying restaurants, cafes and wedding venues all around the UK.” n

Shane’s Desserts 01200 898901 shanesdesserts.co.uk

A CELEBRATION OF NATURE AND CUISINE

Nature-led farming and culinary excellence is at the heart of new restaurant Eight at Gazegill, writes Gail Bailey

It is very much a field-to-fork philosophy at Gazegill Farm where nature is central to everything the shop and now the restaurant, create: “Our organic pastures are a biological heritage site,” explains Ian O’Reilly, who owns Gazegill Organics along with his wife Emma, whose family have farmed at Gazegill for generations. “We have over 80 species of grasses, plants, herbs and wildflowers growing on the land for our animals to freely feed on and this is reflected in the produce we sell to our customers through the farm shop and now served to our diners.”

The brand-new addition of an outside terrace space at the restaurant is a celebration of all that Gazegill offers, with the most wonderful view over the landscape and its rich tapestry: “The terrace is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the whole experience. It’s a large space where guests can listen to the birdsong along with the cattle, the sheep and all the wildlife,” says Ian. “And with a simplified menu, including a selection of light bites and charcuterie sharing boards, it doesn’t get much better. There is no pressure while dining at Gazegill, and our terrace space is the perfect spot.” There is even a fully

enclosed play area so parents can relax while their children play happily in a safe space, surrounded by nature.

It isn’t only a chilled glass of wine customers can enjoy on the terrace – already a firm favourite is Emma’s soft-serve ice-cream: “Homemade on the farm using our own organic raw milk, produced by our Old English Dairy

Shorthorns heritage herd, it tastes delicious and is perfect to eat in the sunshine and like everything we serve, will be seasonal –rhubarb being a recent popular pairing!”

Doug Crampton is the experienced Chef Patron at Gazegill. Doug worked alongside James Martin in his Manchester restaurant for many years: “We are privileged to have Doug as Head Chef and even more happy that he has now been joined by his former sous chef Luke Canning. Doug and Luke are building the perfect team!”

The whole concept of a team approach matters to Ian and Emma: “The team are working hard to make Eight at Gazegill the very best it can be, going above and beyond and our philosophy is to be equally invested in them,” Ian says. A small, professional team with the perfect dynamic is evident the minute you walk through the door. Experienced Restaurant Manager, Kim Talbot, and talented barista and Beverage Manager Ben Clayton are on hand to welcome

Photography: Suzanne Skeen

guests and along with the rest of the team, create the perfect atmosphere.

The open kitchen means customers can see the skill that goes into every dish: “With all the wonderful ingredients, mostly grown or foraged on the farm, Doug uses his craft to serve wonderful culinary creations,” explains Ian. “Dishes such as Gazegill organic beef cooked simply over fire, forager chipolotas served with Gazegill honey and hogweed or BBQ carrot served with black garlic ketchup and home cured pancetta are just a few of the dishes our guests can enjoy.”

The name Eight evolved as the restaurant project did as Ian further explains: “The shape of our oak octagon became key to every aspect of the build. 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!”

THE TERRACE IS THE PERFECT PLACE TO RELAX AND ENJOY THE WHOLE EXPERIENCE. IT’S A LARGE SPACE WHERE GUESTS CAN LISTEN TO THE BIRDSONG ALONG WITH THE CATTLE, THE SHEEP AND ALL THE WILDLIFE

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 share Eight at Gazegill

with customers,” says Ian. “The dishes Doug, Luke and the kitchen team create are a celebration of our own organic meat and local artisan producers and champion sustainability, quality and an accessible, welcoming restaurant for all,” Ian adds.

Customer feedback is always the best recommendation with one recent diner saying: “We are just blown away – this place is amazing! The staff are extremely welcoming and very helpful answering any questions you may have regarding the food and its origins and the dishes are to die for. Presentation, quality, taste and size of portions were for us, just perfect. If you haven’t tried this hidden gem it is perfection on the eye and on the palate!” n

Lower Gazegill Farm

Dancer Lane, Rimington Clitheroe, Lancashire BB7 4EE 01200 445519

bookings@eightatgazegill.co.uk eightatgazegill.co.uk

MORE TO DISCOVER MIDWEEK

With welcoming décor and service, stylishly comfortable bedrooms and a menu rich in seasonal local produce, the Three Millstones is too tempting to leave to the weekend. In the company of dedicated chef-owner Matthew Frost, Kate Bowyer discovers a midweek treat well within reach. Photography: Kirsten Platt

On a Wednesday lunchtime, I’m not the only one discovering the treasure that is the Three Millstones nestled in the picturesque hamlet of West Bradford, just outside Clitheroe. Outside the long, low Grade II listed, Ribble Valley inn, cyclists poring over the menu in the sunshine exchange recommendations with a family heading for the stone-built accommodation lodge.

Inside, it’s a balance of traditional flagged floors complemented by pleasingly solid wooden tables and comfortable, richly upholstered chairs. Lunchtime chatter and a distracting glance at the inviting specials board sharpens my appetite, as front of house manager Lindsay gives me a warm hello and a seat by the handsome 18th-century fireplace.

Luckily chef-patron Matthew Frost arrives before I decide to order everything on the menu, which is a blend of traditional favourites with tempting fresh touches. “Well, if I order too, you can try a bit of mine,” he offers. My kind of host!

A SPECIAL MIDWEEK OFFER MAKES COMING FOR A FEW DAYS’ BREAK OR JUST POPPING DOWN FROM TOWN FOR AN OVERNIGHT RE-CHARGE, PRETTY IRRESISTIBLE

Blackstick’s Blue Lancashire cheese, Bury black pudding, Goosnargh chicken breast –the menu bursts with regional provenance: “We’ve been sourcing locally long before it became Instagram-friendly!” smiles Matthew. “So, we’ve built up great relationships with our suppliers. The sausages come from Whalley, bacon from Southport, fish from Wellgates in Clitheroe, as well as fruit, vegetables and game like pheasant and venison from local farms and estates.”

It’s hard to look up from my pulled pork starter with homemade barbecue sauce and

apple and cucumber salad, to steal some of my host’s, equally mouth-watering goat’s cheese with roasted red pepper, olives, grapes and toasted walnuts. A generous serving of bread, home-baked by Matthew and warm from the oven, has become something of a local legend, along with the Three Millstones’ homemade pastries, desserts and ice cream.

Matthew’s ‘use everything’ policy honours how the kitchens here must have operated in centuries past, sourcing whole pigs and lambs from neighbouring farms and butchering them onsite: “It gives me the pick of cuts for the perfect dish and inspiration to create new ones as well as fantastic stock and gravies –

nothing is wasted.”

I’m doubly glad I chose the roast leg of lamb, which comes well accompanied by Dauphinoise potatoes, baby carrots, pea puree, blackcurrant sauce and that lovely rich gravy. Luckily, the puff pastry on Matthew’s homemade Lancashire cheese and onion pie is light enough for me to squeeze in several tasty, tester forkfuls.

I’m already feeling so at home that I’m glad a guided tour of the newly-renovated 10 suites and en-suites is next on the menu, rather than the washing up! With something for everyone, rooms in the Grade-II listed main building boast 300-year-old oak beams and sash windows.

Sitting comfortably alongside the original inn like a traditional farm barn in the landscape, Matthew and wife Lauren oversaw every detail of the new stone-built lodge. All its rooms and suites are stylishly and comfortably furnished too, with sumptuous beds, underfloor heating and spacious en-suite bathrooms.

“From the bar to the food, to the

accommodation, everything we do is about creating that welcoming feeling,” confirms Matthew, who took up the Three Millstones together with Lauren in 2008 after a successful cheffing career in Australia. Now with four children (the eldest of which is working in the kitchen) it remains a real family endeavour, including the tight-knit team who clearly relish what they do.

WE’VE BUILT UP GREAT RELATIONSHIPS WITH OUR SUPPLIERS – FRUIT, VEGETABLES AND GAME LIKE PHEASANT AND VENISON COME FROM LOCAL FARMS AND ESTATES

“Whether sun, rain hiking or shopping, when you come back to your room, we know people don’t want to push their way through to the back stairs of a pub. So, all our rooms have separate, individual access – you can

step straight in, throw yourself into a chair, or run yourself a bath and relax.”

Understanding what draws people to this beautiful pocket of the Ribble Valley, there are family, fully-accessible and pet-friendly rooms, as well as a secure bike storage. A special midweek offer makes coming for a few days’ break or just popping down from town for an overnight re-charge, pretty irresistible. B&B includes Matthew’s famous breakfast spread and with dinner, bed and breakfast starting at just £120 for two people, it really is exceptional value for money.

One last course to try before I leave. I’ve just about room for a decadent dessert of caramel ice cream mixed with crushed meringue, honeycomb, marshmallows, vanilla fudge, brownie pieces, butterscotch sauce and toasted almonds. Wow! Matthew leaves me to enjoy it while he disappears back into the kitchen to whip up the evening’s menu of delights. n

3 Millstones Inn

Waddington Road West Bradford Clitheroe BB7 4SX 01200 443339

3millstones.co.uk

SUMMER IN THE GARDEN ROOM

With a laid back country vibe, the Rum Fox is a smart, versatile space where guests can enjoy fabulous food in fantastic surroundings

The Rum Fox at Grindleton is constantly evolving both in terms of the menu and in the way the space can be used – whether that’s for luxury private dining or enjoying the views of Pendle Hill from the garden room that becomes a lovely al fresco dining space thanks to a retractable roof.

With comfortable armchairs, open stonework and large dining tables, the space is just perfect for summer dining in the sunshine. Light and airy, this addition to the Rum Fox when it was in the initial design stages, was a triumph and today it continues to be a favourite spot for many diners – especially with the arrival of warmer weather.

“It’s great that diners can enjoy the sunshine even when they are inside at the Rum Fox. It’s a lovely relaxing place to be and the views

over Pendle are spectacular!” says chef-patron Bob Geldeard, who has been wowing guests with his stunning, creative dishes since the Rum Fox opened last year.

The classic bar area in the pub with it’s flagged floors and log fire, is a space where walkers and their dogs can gather to enjoy a drink and the popular set menu, which was originally a lunch menu, has now been extended to early evenings on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

With the choice of two or three-courses the great-value menu changes weekly. Diners

can expect a meal that reflects the best of the season – among the starters maybe leek potato and wild garlic soup or Shetland mussels in wine, garlic and cream served with seaweed chips. Among the main courses expect to find a delicious home-made pie like the Rum Fox’s renowned cheese, onion and potato pie served with mustard sauce or cod loin in thai green curry sauce: “The set menu is very popular and it’s perfect for guests who simply want to visit for lunch, unwind after work or relax after a walk in the countryside.”

ENJOY THE SUNSHINE AND THE SPECTACULAR VIEWS OF PENDLE HILL FROM THE LIGHT AND AIRY GARDEN ROOM THAT BECOMES AL FRESCO WITH A RETRACTABLE ROOF

Having recently won the Best New Tourism Business Award at the Lancashire Tourism Awards, the Rum Fox is a wonderful place to visit for lunch or dinner. It has also become an extremely popular place for private birthday and wedding celebrations – a luxury private dining experience in the small intimate Den can cater for up to 10 people, the garden room can hold 30 people while for larger events the whole pub can cater for up to 70 guests with bespoke menus available. n

The set menu is available Wednesday to Saturday lunchtime and Wednesday and Thursday between 5pm and 6.30pm.

The Rum Fox Sawley Road, Grindleton Clitheroe BB7 4QS 01200 871691 info@therumfox.co.uk therumfox.co.uk

AL FRESCO PERFECTION

A warm and sunny Ribble Valley morning was both apt and a welcome backdrop to my monthly meeting at the Black Bull, writes Tedd Walmsley. Photography: KapturedbyWayne.co.uk

We were sitting outside in the Black Bull garden talking about the refurbished and extended outdoor space, ready for what we hope will be a summer of balmy, sunny afternoons and evenings. So, what’s new? Black Bull owner Becky Govier told me that plans are afoot to install a new outdoor grill to extend the menu choices even further – think grilled fresh lobster tails drizzled with butter or steaks caressed with a piquant marinade. The pizza oven will be ready to be fired up to serve authentic slices

of freshly-made pizza served up with a fine collection of cold beers and wines. It’s what summer’s made for. Becky tells me there will even be an adult-only slush puppy machine –that looks to me like frozen margaritas and strawberry daiquiris all round!

This outdoor space is like the creation of an entirely new venue for Becky and the team. The main menu is of course, also served outdoors but these additional options take outdoor dining to a whole new level. The stunning stretch sail is the main feature of this space, but also hugely practical for those

looking for shade and is of course, both child and dog friendly and boasts the most incredible views. Enquiries for events, notably for baby showers and birthday celebrations, are becoming more frequent – exclusive of course and with bespoke menus and attentive staff, it’s hard to imagine anywhere better if al fresco is your thing.

THE NEW MANCHESTER SOFT EGG, WHICH IS DESCRIBED IN SIMPLE TERMS, FEATURED PICCALILLI SALAD AND MUSTARD GEL –IT WAS IN FACT, ANYTHING BUT SIMPLE

Talking of events, the pub continues to develop its niche as the ‘go to’ venue for all manner of celebrations. It’s simple to make an appointment to meet with Becky and the team to discuss your individual requirements and then simply leave the rest to them to deliver your tailor-made event.

I must also mention some changes to the menu – Head Chef Nick Evans has certainly settled in and continues to elevate new

dishes and the classics to a whole new level with imaginative and subtle changes to both ingredients and presentation. The emphasis is certainly on quality and by chance, it was good to bump into Giles Shaw from Wellgate Fisheries as he delivered a large box of the very freshest fish. I quickly succumbed to the return to the menu of the ever-popular gambas pil-pil, which is served with a huge chunk of fresh bread to mop up the delicate garlic butter and infused chilli.

Becky tried the new Manchester soft egg, which is described in simple terms, and featured piccalilli salad and mustard gel. It was crunchy and moreish and it was in fact, anything but simple. A new one to try on your next visit.

PLANS ARE AFOOT TO INSTALL A NEW OUTDOOR GRILL TO EXTEND THE MENU CHOICES EVEN FURTHER – THINK GRILLED FRESH LOBSTER TAILS DRIZZLED WITH BUTTER

This new menu expertly curated by Nick, appears to have lost nothing of its robust portion size and is presented as a feast for the eyes as well. The quality of the ingredient is no more self-evident than in their ever-popular Sunday roast, served until early evening or more likely when they run out. The finest quality meats and fish and seasonal veggies, create the perfect Sunday lunch experience –I’ve promised my wife that we will make the trip over in the next few weeks as it’s been far too long since our last visit.

As we approach lighter nights and warmer summer weekends the Black Bull comes into its own offering the delights of both inside and outside seating and a host of menu options. There will of course be lots of events and live music to enjoy and I’d suggest keeping abreast of their social media to see what’s happening over the course of the next few weeks.

These incredibly hard-working delightful people deserve your support! n

The Black Bull

Old Langho Road, Old Langho BB6 8AW 01254 248801

enquiries@theblackbulloldlangho.co.uk theblackbulloldlangho.co.uk

team both in the kitchen and front of house. Former Black Bull Head Chef Callum has returned to head up the kitchen brigade and they are slowly pulling together a team of talented chefs capable of creating a menu of pub classics. As always, this will be a homage to their creative flair and the ever-changing specials board is based on seasonality and the availability of some of the finest local ingredients.

Out front Becky has recruited some excellent staff and is creating the same infectious enthusiasm, fun and friendly professionalism, as her team at the Black Bull in Old Langho. The same ethos creating the same result – great service with a great experience for the diners.

IF THIS IS THE BEGINNING OF A NEW ADVENTURE FOR BECKY AND JAMIE IT’S GOING TO BE ANOTHER INCREDIBLE SUCCESS

Alongside the teambuilding is the refurbishment of the interior and the transformation of outdoor space. Becky tells me that work will start imminently on a facelift for the inside of the pub and she will also oversee frantic preparations for the beer garden and general outdoor space as the long lazy afternoons and sunny weekends are just around the corner. Their investment and passion is there for all to see so Liz and I thought it time to visit and see if this enthusiasm translated into reality – we were not disappointed.

It was a lovely Thursday evening as we arrived for an early supper and to road test

ON TRACK FOR SUCCESS

The historic Edisford Bridge is on track to become another resounding hit for Becky and Jamie Govier, writes Tedd Walmsley, who visited the pub to check out the seasonal menu.

Photography: KapturedbyWayne.co.uk

It’s just a few short weeks since that SOS call from the brewery and the mercy dash over to the Edisford Bridge to save this landmark pub from immediate closure.

The 18th century Grade II listed inn has an iconic presence and simply couldn’t be allowed to become yet another casualty of the apparent collapse of the hospitality sector in the UK.

So, what happened next? Becky Govier and husband Jamie literally moved heaven and earth to keep the doors open and the kitchen stoves alight. There is a definite twopronged strategy here which is paying huge, early dividends.

Firstly, Becky is creating another amazing

some of the signature dishes from the new menu. We weren’t the first to arrive –some early diners enjoying supper and a few walkers enjoying the early evening sun sat outside with cold beers and bar snacks. The clientele is going to be a varied group and I imagine a mix of locals, walkers and plenty of tourists, who visit the area and stay nearby. This appears to be confirmed in many of the recent excellent reviews on both Google and Trip Advisor as there appears to be a hugely positive reaction to Becky and Jamie’s first few weeks at the helm.

Liz opted for the squid from the specials board, which was both delicious and served with a fragrant Thai style salad. Having

looked at the menu I was spoiled for choice with some of my old favourites such as scampi and prawn cocktail in the small plates menu. I finally opted for the scotch egg, which was robust and served with a spicy nduja dressing.

The classic fish and chips served on modern-day newspaper was to be my main course and was as good as I’ve had in many a while – fresh fish from local supplier Giles Shaw in Clitheroe with chunky chips and mushy peas – what’s not to like? I cleared the plate in double quick time.

THE CLASSIC FISH AND CHIPS SERVED ON MODERN-DAY NEWSPAPER WAS TO BE MY MAIN COURSE AND WAS AS GOOD AS I’VE HAD

Liz also went very traditional with a piping hot steak and ale pie served with a jug of extra gravy for dipping her chips – packed with meat and topped with a golden puff pastry crust –Liz polished this off. The bigger plates menu is complemented with both small plate options and a classic sandwich menu served all day, which I’m sure will prove to be very popular with that diverse group of diners I mentioned earlier.

And so on to pudding – we shouldn’t really have had those sweet treats but I’d promised Becky I’d give them a whirl. The cherry Bakewell with sour cherry and vanilla ice cream proved to be more than worth its billing as one of the most popular on the menu. We had intended to share a dessert but the very attentive Rosie insisted on a birthday treat for me and presented me with a slice of chocolate delice with a moreish salted caramel ice cream. Needless to say we did our best with this and left feeling

more than replete, promising to come back to try Sunday lunch Edisford Bridge style. If this is the beginning of a new adventure for Becky and Jamie it’s going to be another incredible success. n

Edisford Bridge Country Pub

Edisford Bridge

Edisford Road, Clitheroe BB8 3LJ

01200 422637

01254 248801

Edisfordbridgecountrypub

The

Ilkley Café Company –Ilkley

Perfect stop off for a coffee and a cake after an afternoon perusing the shops in Ilkley, just up from Friends of Ham on Wells Street. A slice of homemade courgette and lime cake and a chai latte to go kept me fuelled after a busy morning. Although, the ‘Fizz Fridays’ certainly piqued my interest for next time!

Bean Loved –Skipton

A favourite amongst the locals in Skipton.

Tucked down Otley Street, with two floors of seating and a little coffee garden at the back, I can’t resist their chai lattes and their ever-changing homemade cakes menu. You won’t regret trying whatever brownie they’ve freshly baked (raspberry and white chocolate for me). A great brunch spot, I think I’ll be trying the ‘truffled mushroom Benedict’ next time I’m in the area.

CAFÉ CULTURE

Lucy Bale goes over the border to Yorkshire to discover some delightful local cafés that offer a host of tasty treats

Hoxton North –Harrogate

A well-known coffee spot in Harrogate with a personal favourite ‘Turkish eggs’ on the menu. I called in for one of their generous almond croissants and a fresh leaf peppermint tea. The outside seating at the front is a perfect people watching spot on a sunny morning.

The Pancake House –Pateley Bridge

The clue is in the name – freshly made pancakes with a variety of toppings is the dish of choice here! Not to mention their selection of locally churned ice cream from Yorvale – Jamaican rum and raisin went down a treat! Your furry friends won’t be missing out here either with dog friendly treats on the menu.

1B High Street, Pateley Bridge,

Leathley Farm Shop and Cafe –between Pool-in-Wharfedale and Harrogate

An unsuspecting farm shop and cafe just off Harrogate Road, with plenty of parking for both cars and bikes. As tempting as their homemade pies and pastries were (think doorstop wedges of quiche) I treat myself to a breakfast sandwich made with local produce. Even the brown sauce is from Bracken Hill Yorkshire Preserves. You can order freshly baked bread from Baltzersen’s in Harrogate to pick up in their cafe – what a treat!

Toft Gate Barn – on the moor between Pateley Bridge and Greenhow

Somewhere on the moor (look out for the signs) between Pateley Bridge and Greenhow, this really is a hidden gem not to be missed! I popped in for a chamomile tea but stayed for the stunning 360 views of the moors. Their collection of cakes and sweet treats were delicious, but you could also pick up some meat reared on their farm to take home for tea! Their homemade steak pie with hand cut chips is calling me back for another visit already.

Harrogate Road, Otley LS21 2PS

1A Royal Parade, Harrogate HG1 2SZ

Bewerley, Harrogate HG3 5JE

Harrogate HG3 5AP

17 Otley Street, Skipton BD23 1DY

14-16 Wells Road, Ilkley LS29 9JD

WISWELL WIZARDRY

I’m very lucky to have a job which many of my friends envy, but when I say I’m off to the Freemasons, I can see them turning green with envy. Situated in the medieval hamlet of Wiswell, snuggled between Clitheroe and Whalley, this epitome of the English country pub contains many delicious secrets.

I’m welcomed by Felix, the General Manager, head of the friendly front of house team. Flagged stone floors and muted heritage colours, perfectly accented by antique rugs and period oil paintings and prints, create a stylish and comfortable setting.

Lovers of grape and grain may find it hard to pass the bar, which boasts a wide selection

of traditional cask-conditioned ales from award-winning independent breweries, and a cellar covering the world of wine. But, like many who return time and again to this award-winning restaurant, I’m here for the food.

To my delight, I’m taken through to the kitchen itself, which offers two unique dining options, firstly the elegant Chef’s Table, which seats up to 12 in full view of the busy kitchen. I pop up on one of four stools at the Kitchen Bench, set centrally in the heart of the action.

Matt Smith, head chef at the Freemasons at Wiswell, guides Kate Bowyer through the exquisite, new summer menu

Head chef Matt Smith, chats with me in between giving subtle directions to his tight-knit team, constantly tasting and conjuring up elegant creations for which the Freemasons has become renowned.

“The Freemasons is somewhere really special, on the wish list of many top chefs,” Matt says. “I’m lucky to be given the trust and freedom to be creative – it’s something you simply wouldn’t get anywhere else.”

The choice of menus alone confirms this, offering set and a la carte lunch and dinner menus which change with the seasons, five-course feasts, epic tasting menus and refreshingly, a fulsome vegetarian line-up. I challenge anyone to find a more interesting menu that includes duck liver parfit with raspberry and pickled walnut, through to Matt’s signature souffle, sweet granadilla passionfruit and alphonso mango, bitter chocolate sorbet with Malibu custard.

THE

FREEMASONS IS

SOMEWHERE REALLY SPECIAL, ON THE WISH LIST OF MANY TOP CHEFS

A plate of delicious cured salmon with buttermilk, caper and dill, sourdough crumpet and house pickles magically appears before me. Matt capitalises on the Ribble Valley’s rich source of local produce, pairing ingredients for the ultimate in taste, like my main course, Goosnargh chicken, honey and thyme roast breast, Spillmans asparagus, English peas, stuffed morels with toasted hay velouté.

Accolades for this true gastronomic experience in a stylish setting, include top placings in the Good Food and Michelin Guides and 2023’s Top 50 Gastropubs list.

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Bank Holiday – 27th May

This may spring Bank Holiday celebrate in style at the Freemasons. Our chefs have designed a delicious three-course menu.

Father’s Day – 16th June

Thank your dad in style this Father’s Day with a special celebratory threecourse lunch courtesy of our chefs.

Summer Menu On The Fold –21st June Onwards

Be sure to make a date with friends and watch out for the weather as we anticipate and welcome the summer months with the addition of lite bites on the Fold!

But for Matt, perfecting the new summer menu, is simply about offering the best for every diner who walks through the door. “I love creating events, like our Tasting Tuesdays, or seasonally-themed Bank Holiday menus,” says Matt, who obviously likes to keep things interesting. “It keeps things fresh for me as much for our diners,” he adds.

I’M SO LUCKY TO BE GIVEN THE TRUST AND FREEDOM TO BE CREATIVE

Leaving Matt and the team to work their culinary magic, Felix shows me around the stylishly appointed rooms, gaining the Freemasons a coveted AA five Gold Star rating for Restaurant with Rooms. Housed in beautifully converted cottages next to the pub, with names like Mr Hare and Mr Fox, the individuality continues with roll-top baths, super king size beds and dressing rooms. The perfect bolthole to sleep like royalty, then saunter across for one of Matthew’s epic breakfasts. Maybe next time… n

FREEM ASONS

AT WISWELL

Freemasons at Wiswell 8 Vicarage Fold, Wiswell BB7 9DF 01254 822218

freemasonsatwiswell.com

Yard in its derelict state but was moved by Ben’s determination to reinvent this area and I just had to get on board. We are both from humble beginnings and are passionate about giving something back to the community.”

Chew’s Yard, probably named after a former owner as was the custom of yesteryear, has seen the space thoughtfully redesigned into industrial workshops featuring a host of independent traders – it is large enough to contain a food hall featuring five different traders, a communal dining space for 150 people with room for live entertainment too.

VISIONARY PROJECT…

Chew’s Yard is an ambitious project led by designer Ben Casey and cultural creator Christine Cort, who have breathed new life into a space that is now buzzing with activity, writes Alma Stewart.

Photography: Michael Porter

When creative business duo Ben Casey and Christine Cort, both from the Ribble Valley, were introduced, little did they know it would lead them on a journey that would see the transformation of a derelict space into a thriving, industrialstyle social and cultural hub – Chew’s Yard.

Running directly behind Friargate, Preston, those of a certain age will remember this particular area because of the Gatsby nightclub on Great Shaw Street which sits across from Chew’s Yard.

This street was of particular interest to Ben, former Head of the School of Design at the University of Central Lancashire and founder of The Chase in Manchester in 1986, now one of the most awarded creative consultancies in the world.

“I’ve worked and lived in Manchester and London,” says Ben. “Something like Chew’s Yard in those cities would not have any impact, but in Preston, it makes such a big difference so why not breathe more life into this formerly unloved area of the city centre?”

Joining him in this epic vision is Christine,

who lives in Wilpshire. She is the former Group Marketing Director at Time Out, the culture, entertainment and events magazine. Originally from Blackburn, Christine runs her own company CC&Friends working on projects she finds inspiring across the world

WHY NOT BREATHE MORE LIFE INTO THIS FORMERLY UNLOVED AREA?

with people she admires. Previous to that, she co-founded the biennial Manchester International Festival (MIF) in 2005 where she was Managing Director. MIF is widely regarded as one of the most successful festivals in the world, with a reputation for staging world premieres and entirely new work, bringing visitors from across the globe to Manchester.

Speaking of the Chew’s Yard development, which is the first phase of this visionary project, Christine explains: “When I was introduced to Ben through a mutual friend and heard of his plans, I caught his enthusiasm for the project. I saw Chew’s

Another huge open area with an industrial, quirky charm contains a bar and leads to outside space, with the versatility to host a number of different events. The beautifully landscaped garden courtyard also has an outdoor bar. On warm days, this peaceful green oasis, with a south-west facing aspect, will be the place to escape, capture the sunshine and enjoy a drink and a bite to eat from noon until night. People from throughout the region can now enjoy the city’s newest, and most exciting, versatile venue.

Christine adds: “Following on from the success of its Christmas pop-ups, Chew’s Yard opened in early May with a packed programme of events catering for the whole family. It really was an incredible weekend! The opening night included singer-songwriter Rachel Waring getting the party started with upbeat, acoustic numbers followed by a spectacular explosion of colour and music as Lancaster’s 25-strong drumming group, Samba Espirito, got the party going with a parade along Market Street West. All our guests had a fantastic time.”

An exciting mix of live music, DJs, family-friendly events and creative sessions is set to be hosted in the event space. The Chew’s Yard Market returned at the beginning of this month featuring artists, makers, craftspeople, photographers and creatives. Not only can visitors enjoy the facilities, the venue is also available for private hire.

It is a great start to Ben’s vision for creating a new cultural destination on Market Street West, having opened Lost Bar and Pizzeria and leasing his building to Chain House Brewery Co. The destination is called Market Street Social and will blend cultural activities with food, drink and entertainment. A billboard style outdoor art gallery is also being planned.

Photography: Jo Greenwood

WE ARE BOTH FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS AND ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT GIVING SOMETHING BACK

The next phase, featuring a pub, wine bar and outdoor balcony sounds just as exciting: “Establishing Chew’s Yard is part of the first phase and ongoing plans include creating a pub on the theme of the Battle of Preston with one level reflecting the New Model Army and the other, the Royalists. It’s going to be a very exciting development. The pub will feature a glass terrace and will be home to a cocktail lounge with the ground floor a spit and sawdust pub selling great beer and pies.

WE ARE PUNCHING HIGH, BUT BEN AND I TRULY BELIEVE IN THE POTENTIAL OF THE VENUE

“People seem to appreciate what we are providing here – truly independent venues where community matters. Chew’s Yard has already hosted community-centred events. At our pop-up event last year, we welcomed visitors from Manchester who were killing time due to a train strike and ended up spending eight hours with us! They took real pleasure introducing Chew’s Yard to all their friends and family – it was a proud moment,” says Ben.

The venue hosts a variety of independent traders, each offering unique experiences:

• Trough: Curated grazing options showcasing the best of British produce from the founders of Goosnargh Gin.

• Seitanic: A plant-based kebab venture that gained popularity during a Christmas pop-up.

Chamo: A top-ranked South American street food vendor known for quality and affordability.

• Two Guns: Bringing Detroit pizza vibes with Italian influences.

• Escapade: Serving draft beer from Thornbridge and high-quality coffee from Atkinsons Coffee Roasters.

Christine concludes: “We are punching high, but Ben and I truly believe in the potential of the venue and of Market Street Social. If Chew’s Yard’s opening weekend was anything to go by, we know we can continue to bring customers some wonderful entertainment, food and drink. There are exciting further plans in place and together, Ben and I have the imagination and ambition to make it work not only as a cultural destination, but as a welcoming communal hub where people can come and enjoy this unique and special place.” n

chewsyard.info

FROM NORTH BEACH FINE CUISINE

Young Australian chef Brayden Davies is enjoying a prestigious job at The Box Tree, Mark Dixon meets him

Within five minutes of meeting Brayden you know you’re in the company of someone going somewhere. In fact he’s already accomplished career goals that most people twice his age could only dream of.

At the age of only 26 few can boast a CV which includes numerous Michelin awarded restaurants including Northcote and Grantley Hall. And now he’s just months into a dream job as Executive Chef at one of Yorkshire’s most famous restaurants, The Box Tree at Ilkley.

That’s where I meet Brayden and the history hangs around us like a warm blanket. Originally a Yorkshire stone farmhouse dating from 1720, The Box Tree is one of the oldest buildings in Ilkley.

Turned into a tearoom in 1962 before becoming a restaurant it was one of the first four British restaurants to win two stars in 1977, under head chef Michael Lawson. After losing both stars, it regained a star between 1996 and 2001, whilst owned by Madame Helen Avis, and then between 2005 and 2019 under the Gueller’s ownership.

I CAN’T WAIT TO SAMPLE HIS ‘DISH INSPIRED BY SHRIMP ON THE BARBIE –SCOTTISH LANGOUSTINE, AUSSIE FINGERLIME, KENT MANGO & AVOCADO’

Both the local, and Michelin history, do not seem to be about to suffocate Brayden in any way. Indeed, he’s remarkably relaxed about the responsibility of rejuvenating the restaurant to its former greatness. He even says some of his inspiration “comes from The Box Tree itself, this building, these surroundings”.

Brayden grew up in a suburb of Perth, Western Australia and left school at 15 to begin his culinary apprenticeship at Clarke’s of North Beach.

He came to London aged 19 and went to work for New South Wales chef Brett Graham –the only Aussie to have been awarded three Michelin stars, at his Ledbury in Notting Hill.

Partly due to financial necessity and also to his parents’ Lancashire heritage Brayden headed north and with his headstrong determination found a job at Northcote near Clitheroe.

“It wasn’t easy at first. I missed my parents and friends, and I didn’t immediately get the different kitchen banter. But I was determined to stick at it, and I learnt a lot.”

He also met his partner, and now mother of their five-month-old boy Albie.

He went on to Grantley Hall to work with one of Yorkshire’s few Michelin chefs, Shaun Rankin. Brayden undoubtedly counts Shaun as his greatest mentor, and there is real affection when he mentions their regular phone calls.

After three years under Shaun’s tutelage, Brayden was ready to jump at a chance for his biggest challenge to date, leading the team at the Box Tree under the new ownership of Adam Frontal. Cooking in a completely refurbished kitchen, Brayden has already wowed diners with his creative takes. I can’t wait to sample his “dish inspired by shrimp on the barbie – Scottish langoustine, Aussie fingerlime, Kent mango & avocado”. Though Brayden will always try to use seasonal Yorkshire favourites such as asparagus and rhubarb, he wants to bring the best of British to the table together with echoes of his Australasian roots.

The desserts are almost magical; “Trifle” (Gariguette Strawberry, Cardamom, Tasmanian Mountain Pepper) and ‘Tea & Toast’ (Mille-Feuille, Earl Grey Tea, Orange Marmalade, Sourdough Ice Cream). But when I say they do sound and look like Michelin starred dishes, Brayden plays it cool and invites me back to taste them. “I’m not thinking about that. If I do my job and we give customers a great experience, then

THE WALK ON MALHAM COVE IS A FAVOURITE TO CLEAR HIS HEAD AND IMAGINE NEW DISHES, AND THE WOODS IN SKIPTON GIVE HIM THE CHANCE TO FORAGE FOR WILD GARLIC, WOODRUFF AND MEADOWSWEET

we would obviously like that to come. But I can’t be in the kitchen every night trying to force that to happen.”

As well as attracting newcomers to his way of cooking, he stresses how important those regulars are to him and the team. Hence the traditional Sunday lunch – 50 Day Aged Wing Rib (from Kirkby Malzeard) – is not going anywhere.

Now living in Skipton, Brayden revels in the Dales on his doorstep. The walk on Malham Cove is a favourite to clear his head and imagine new dishes, and the woods in Skipton give him the chance to forage for wild garlic, woodruff and meadowsweet. He wants the menu to change every eight weeks or so with the self-made challenge “that every dish is at least as good if not better than the one it replaces”. He knows he can’t meet this challenge alone and is quick to name check the team, newbies like Cameron and Nick and stalwarts like Chris and Didier.

A chef going places and taking his team with him. I’d guess to the (Michelin) stars and back. n

The Box Tree

35-37 Church Street, Ilkley LS29 9DR 01943 608484

info@theboxtree.co.uk theboxtree.co.uk

Gourmet Breaks

Escape to Northcote for the ultimate foodie retreat in The Ribble Valley

Craving a Culinary Escape?

Immerse yourself in culinary artistry, Michelin-starred chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen crafts innovative seasonal menus, while our award-winning wine list offers the perfect pairing for every dish. Step inside Northcote and discover a timeless blend of tradition and modernity. Relax in our luxurious garden lodge suites or the elegant manor house rooms. Summer is the perfect time to soak up the sunshine on our inviting terraces, enjoy a walk through the Forest of Bowland or along the river banks in the Ribble valley.

Northcote - where gourmet experiences and luxury escapes collide.

Northcote Road, Langho, BB6 8BE Northcote.com

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!

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

Street 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

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’

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

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BEYOND BROTHER BEYOND...

Brother Beyond frontman Nathan Moore, talks to Carol Wilson about Top of the Pops, fame in France, walking the red carpet and his new life in the Ribble Valley

Nathan Moore remembers exactly where he was the moment he found out that his band, Brother Beyond, had missed out on the UK charts’ number one spot.

“I was at the Notting Hill Carnival, in a shop and the charts were on the radio, and I heard ‘At number two...it’s Brother Beyond!’ and I was like, ‘How’s that happened?’”

Nathan was shocked by the outcome as their hit single, The Harder I Try, had been number one in the daily listings the whole of the previous week.

But he has his own theories as to why Phil Collins pipped them to what would have been their only number one hit single. A Groovy Kind of Love was the soundtrack to the film Buster, in which Collins had a starring role, so he narrowly beat Brother Beyond to the top spot.

“We expected to be number one,” says Nathan. “We kept asking ourselves, how can we be number one up until Saturday and then on Sunday lose by 200 sales? That’s all we got beaten by.

“There probably wasn’t a financial gain to be made from being number one, but it’s history. What was number one this week in 1988? It’s the number ones of the last 30 years that are remembered, not the number twos. In that sense you miss out.

“We were number one in Ireland though. I’ve got that to hang on to.”

As one quarter of four-piece Brother Beyond in the late 80s and early 90s, Nathan rubbed shoulders with Take That, Kylie Minogue, Jason Donovan and Bros, to name just a few.

After the band parted amicably, he joined Worlds Apart in the mid-1990s and became hugely famous in France, featuring on talk shows alongside Brigitte Bardot and Jean Claude van Damme and walking the music awards red carpet with Celine Dion.

These days you can find him having breakfast in Clitheroe, training at Harris

NATHAN STILL GETS THE THRILL OF PERFORMING – HE IS HOSTING A ONE-DAY FESTIVAL OF 80s MUSIC THAT FEATURES JASON DONAVAN AND IS HEADLINED BY BILLY OCEAN

Fitness in Barrow or cycling through Gisburn Forest.

The Londoner has also revived his pop career, still touring with Worlds Apart and hosting 80s/90s nights under the Brother Beyond title, but he has left behind the hustle and bustle of city life and settled in a semi-rural spot in the Ribble Valley, with his wife Donna and their teenage son Nico.

“I love performing. I had 10 years of nothing, no phone calls, after it ended, but you just leave it like an old fossil and then dig it up a few years later and it’s got a bit of value and people want it. And now, I’m really quite busy. But it suits my life, I take Nico to school in the morning, I’ve got my weeks kind of free, I help Donna with her business, Host Your Home. She drives that but I can be the maintenance man if anything needs doing and I turn up with my toolbox,” says Nathan, 59.

“I occasionally get recognised, but I don’t really want to be. I want to live a life. When I go into London I want to go on the Tube, I want to be amongst people. I like people.

“I’ve been friends with some really famous people. When Michelle Collins was at the height of her fame as Cindy in Eastenders

TOP OF THE POPS WAS THE DREAM. THE ULTIMATE. I SORT OF DID BECOME FAMOUS OVERNIGHT

we’d go out in London for dinner and it was horrendous with people shouting ‘Cindy!’ every few steps.

“I had it after we first appeared on Top of the Pops with Brother Beyond.

“Top of the Pops was the dream. The ultimate. But the next day I was walking down Oxford Street and that was my Cindy from Eastenders moment!

“Everybody watched Top of the Pops back then. In 1988 we had four channels and you tuned into the same thing, so six to eight million people watched it.

“Everybody was whispering, ‘there’s that guy from that band Brother Beyond’. So I sort of did become famous overnight.

“Once you’ve done that you’re in every magazine, No 1, Smash Hits and because I was the frontman I would do things like Jackie and Just 17.

“It’s a buzz to a young man, but it goes away, it does end, because that’s pop.”

Nathan still gets the thrill of performing though, through solo gigs at hotel and hospitality events and festivals – his next one being Music in the Park at Leyland’s Worden Park on 26th May, where he is hosting a one-day festival of 80s music that features Jason Donavan, Sonia and Rowetta and is headlined by Billy Ocean.

“My life balance is great. I live a pretty normal life, I’m sort of famous in a field in the middle of nowhere sometimes, doing a Let’s Rock festival.

“The weekend after Music in the Park I’m doing Irlam Live with Holly Johnson and Liberty X.

“There I’m somebody to quite a lot of the people. Great. But Monday I’m back shopping at Tesco.

“I never thought when I lived in Islington for 30 years that I would end my life in Lancashire, in the wet north.

“But life is good. It is a great place to live and it’s my home now and I’m very happy here.” n

GOOD READ

Lauren Molyneux reviews the first instalment of a fantasy saga that envelops the reader in a world where bravery and loyalty are truly tested

THE KING SWORDS

N V Gerhardt

A time of celebration has come amongst the three great clans of Isterthurea as the ancient swords, gifts from the Gods themselves, choose their new kings. He who brandishes a King Sword lays claim to the throne. He unlocks the power to unite the clans, to command his followers, to wage war against his enemies. All land will be his — but fate doesn’t always favour the honourable.

As Isterthurea celebrates the King Choosing, not all are happy. Some are plotting. After years of peace, remnants of the old clan wars threaten to resurface and forgotten wounds are reopened. Seeking retribution and the ruler’s seat, dark forces are at work to unbalance the current clan leaders and breed hatred and unhappiness across the world.

The clans need kings. Without them, Isterthurea and the world may fall.

The King Swords are vulnerable, and it’s up to the children of the Forge Master to protect them. But when facing enemies of great power and battling with supernatural revelations that could alter the very fabric of the world, bravery and loyalty are just two of the factors being tested.

In the web of the world, everything is connected — every action has an equal and opposite reaction. And so, the question remains — how much good is needed to combat all the evil?  Co-created by local brother and sister writing team, The King Swords is the first instalment in a fantasy saga that welcomes readers of all genres. Both intriguing and accessible, the novel envelops the reader in its world from the first page, sweeping along at pace and allowing us to walk alongside the Forge Master’s children as they embark on their quest to protect the swords and reunite the clans.

As the family navigates encounters with the supernatural in a land that moves ever closer to the brink of war, with each chapter the reader is rewarded with new pieces of the puzzle, elements of lore and beautiful, scenic descriptions that make it difficult to remain detached from the world that has been created.

Whilst The King Swords introduces and explores familiar themes that we might come to expect from a novel of this genre — good versus evil, the quest for power, the balance of honour, dignity and bravery — at its heart, it is the bond between siblings and the sacrifices we’re willing to make for those who are bound by blood, that are the driving forces of the main narrative thread.

With the family’s path guided by the eldest son, Olgarin, and protected by Kalldaria, the only female sibling tasked with taking care of her brothers in their parents’ absence, each character embarks on their own journey of development, framed by their family dynamics and their ability to build connections over shared losses. And when Pennrin, the youngest brother, begins to experience dark dreams that hint towards an unknown supernatural power, the strength of the siblings’ relationships are truly put to the test. n

SHERREE VALENTINEDAINES NEW COLLECTION

Sherree Valentine-Daines is internationally acknowledged as one of the foremost artists of her generation and her classic impressionistic style enriches and enhances her beguiling subject matter.

Her beautiful new collection comprises an exquisite quartet of collectible limited editions, two enchanting childhood scenes and two elegant solo studies.

To view the new collection please call into the gallery or visit our website. Original Paintings . Signed Limited Editions . Sculptures . Needleworks . Restoration .

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Art Framing . Shirt Framing . Canvas Stretching

ADVENTURES BY THE SEA

RHAPSODY IN BLUE

Northcote Park, Langho

Asking Price £1,110,000

Hoghton, Preston

OIRO £925,000

* LAST PLOT * The Farnley - an impressive six-bedroom home located on this exclusive development, built by local developers Pringle Homes in the Ribble Valley.

This three-storey home meets all the needs of modern family life. It has a double-gabled frontage and full height window above the porch allowing maximum daylight onto the landing. It also includes a cinema room on the second floor.

This beautiful five-bedroom detached farmhouse is presented to the very highest of standards throughout and is set within a bespoke cluster of properties off Daub Hall Lane.

Perfect for those looking for a quiet, semi-rural location yet with access to various amenities, this superb family home comes with additional paddock in a plot of over one acre.

Haighton, Preston OIRO £1,100,000

Gisburn Road, Blacko

Offers Over £750,000

This former farmhouse has been extended into the attached barn, creating a substantial home which oozes character.

Set in 1.4 acres OTA and with a fine pair of stone barns along with garaging, there is huge scope to alter to suit the needs of the buyer, subject to consents.

A stunning Grade II listed, three-bedroom property packed with original features.

Sitting in a five-acre plot with spectacular views over open countryside, it includes a large barn which has planning permission for a four bedroom property.

50 Moor Lane, Clitheroe, BB7 1AJ 01200 408408 clitheroe@stonesyoung.co.uk

Eden Gardens, Old Langho, BB6 8HW OFFERS IN THE REGION OF £975,000

Unique detached home on exceptional plot

• Seven double bedrooms

• Eight luxurious bathrooms

• Double garage with ample driveway parking

• Well-maintained landscaped gardens

Mill Hey Croft, Sawley Road, Chatburn, BB7 4LD

OFFERS IN THE REGION OF £725,000

Outstanding detached home on substantial plot

• Superb village position with impressive views

• Beautiful barn entrance hallway

• Four bedrooms with luxury en-suite to master

• Extensive lawned garden with summerhouse

Brooklyn Road, Clayton-le-Dale, BB1 9PP

£650,000

Three-storey bespoke detached property

• Two generous reception rooms

• Five double bedrooms

• Stunning rear garden with countryside views

• Large garage and driveway parking

The Old Post Office, 740 Whalley New Rd, Blackburn, BB1 9BA 01254 682470 enquiries@stonesyoung.co.uk

Moor Farm, Clerk Hill Road, Sabden, BB7 9FR

£895,000

Truly individual stone-built farmhouse

• Elevated panoramic views

• Five beautiful double bedrooms

• Potential to create a self-contained office

• 0.5 acres with wildlife pond and patio

Pyethorn Meadows, Whalley Road, BB1 9LJ

£700,000

Incredible four-bedroom detached family home

• Private, gated location

• Contemporary open plan kitchen/lounge/diner

• Versatile annexe

• Surrounded by breathtaking gardens

Markhor, Eaves Hall Lane, West Bradford, BB7 3JG OFFERS IN THE REGION OF £650,000

Fabulous, extended detached home

• Outstanding plot with gardens adjoining woodland

• Five, versatile double bedrooms with private aspects

• Deluxe family bathroom and master en-suite shower room

• Driveway parking for up to 10 cars

Wiswell

50 Moor Lane, Clitheroe, BB7 1AJ 01200 408408 clitheroe@stonesyoung.co.uk

Browgate, Sawley, BB7 4NB

£579,950

Prestigious, modern detached family home

• Extensive, modern living dining kitchen

• Four double bedrooms with two en-suite shower rooms

• Impressive lounge and cinema family room

• Stunning, private south-facing garden

Alder Prospect, Barrow, BB7 9ZP

£550,000

Impressive modern detached home

• Fantastic cul-de-sac location with lovely aspects

• Beautiful high specification throughout

• Four excellent bedrooms with en-suite to master

• Newly landscaped south facing rear garden

Mellor Brow, Mellor, BB2 7PN

£525,000

Outstanding semi-detached family home

• Exceptional interior design throughout

• Meticulously extended

• Four beautiful bedrooms

• South-facing garden with rural views

The Old Post Office, 740 Whalley New Rd, Blackburn, BB1 9BA 01254 682470 enquiries@stonesyoung.co.uk

The Rydings, Langho, BB6 8BQ

£575,000

Stunning five-bedroom home in the Ribble Valley

• Two spacious reception rooms

• Large master bedroom with fitted wardrobes and en-suite

• Extensive driveway with electric charging point

• Large double garage

Dun Croft Close, Clitheroe, BB7 2JR

£540,000

Beautiful, detached family home on enviable plot

• Four double bedrooms with master en-suite

• Spacious lounge, dining room and garden room

• Double garage with ample driveway parking

• Fantastic family living space and landscaped gardens

Masefield Close, Old Langho, BB6 8HS OFFERS OVER £514,500

Impressive five-bedroom home in desirable gated location

• Two reception rooms and conservatory

• Five double bedrooms

• Double garage and driveway parking

• Truly wonderful front and rear gardens

BUILDING OF TOWNSCAPE MERIT

Zara Moon Architects explain how they achieved planning approval for one of their contemporary extensions to a Building of Townscape Merit within the Wiswell Conservation Area in the Ribble Valley

Ninety per cent of ZMA’s projects are on sensitive sites (Green Belt, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Open Countryside and Conservation Areas). We also specialise in heritage schemes including work to listed buildings or within the settings of various heritage assets.

Lantern Cottage is a dwelling located in the Wiswell Conservation Area and is categorised as a Building of Townscape Merit. The existing dwelling therefore has a quaint Ribble Valley cottage aesthetic and is of heritage value. Our clients wanted to create a highly contemporary addition which reflected how they wanted to live in their home, including a large open plan kitchen dining living space, a guest suite and impressive boot room entrance.

The orientation of the property had a poor connection to the garden both visually and physically. The proposal solves this issue by creating a new extension which stretches

the width of the garden, effectively bringing their primary living spaces into their garden.

The design includes the reconfiguration of their ground floor layout to maximise efficiency while creating a grand rear entrance boot room, separate formal dining room with feature wine store, laundry, back kitchen, double garage and a guest suite with private garden terrace.

Projects to traditional or heritage buildings don’t necessarily have to be like-for-like or be traditional in their style. The architectural design response is selected based on what a client wants to achieve with their home

OUR CLIENTS WANTED TO CREATE A HIGHLY CONTEMPORARY ADDITION INCLUDING A LARGE OPEN PLAN KITCHEN DINING LIVING SPACE, A GUEST SUITE AND IMPRESSIVE BOOT ROOM ENTRANCE

combined with an in-depth understanding of the building’s heritage.

During the first stage of the project we undertake historic research, assess the planning history and any historic context. This research then informs the design and what can be achieved on a particular building or site.

Historic maps are analysed, the important characteristic of Conservation Areas are identified, key views and other heritage buildings are reviewed all to ensure there would be no impact as a result of the proposal. Some schemes maintain the same architectural language, materials and features of the original building. Whereas in other schemes it is more appropriate to represent a contrasting architectural style which allows the old and new elements to remain legible. Each project is therefore bespoke and tailored to the specific client and site. n

If you have a sensitive site with big aspirations, get in touch to discuss your project in further detail.

The Barn at Fieldings Farm

Whalley Banks, Whalley BB7 9JL

01200 403840

zaramoonarchitects.co.uk

Zara Moon Architects

Limited places available for Reception and Year 7 classes. Contact our Registrar Kay Aspinall on k.aspinall@oakhillschool.co.uk to arrange an individual tour. Scholarship and bursary awards also available.