Live Ribble Valley Issue 152 October 2024

HOME CINEMA

Home cinemas provide the ultimate experience in home entertainment.

We have converted loft spaces, garden rooms, cellars and redundant dining rooms to create amazing spaces to enjoy free time and family time like never before.

We listen to your requirements and work with our team of experts to provide seamless installation of the perfect audio-visual system, lighting and luxury design for you.

Technology and our clients’ desires have perpetually moved us forward, creating and recreating spaces within homes to be proud of.

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

01772 862 266 bernarddickinson.co.uk andrew@bernarddickinson.co.uk

14 JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY

An arresting array of plants against a backdrop of aligned arches was symbolic of embracing identity, for RHS Tatton award-winner Samuel Galloway. 82 PEARL OF THE INDIAN OCEAN

After a South African safari, Dan Hyams spends an unforgettable holiday on the white-sand beaches of Mauritius, enjoying the island’s vibrant culture.

114 WINNING PARTNERSHIP

Two local businesses have joined forces to create an innovative new podcast series for Sport England.

116 ONLY THE BEST

Lucy Bale meets two aficionados, who developed their passion for coffee in the US and Costa Rica and have now brought their expertise to Lancashire.

138 INVESTMENT TO BE ENJOYED

Time, that most valuable of commodities, is crucial for David Moore, who has set up an exclusive distillery to make artisanal whisky.

LIVE MAGAZINES

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Editor

In the beautiful Ribble Valley, October is always set against a backdrop of golden autumnal leaves and a chill in the air that calls for roaring log fires and a seasonal bounty of local produce.

In this issue we turn the spotlight on the many local country inns and restaurants that now have seasonal game and fresh autumn fruit and vegetables to give dishes unbeatable earthy, intense flavours. Imagine a crisp walk in the countryside followed by wild rabbit with pickled crushed walnut or loin of venison with a delicious damson gin sauce. These are dishes that truly reflect the season!

It’s also the season when many families celebrate Halloween and in this issue we trace the history of Halloween and feature recipes perfect for the occasion. A super-spooky, spicy pumpkin soup will keep youngsters – and adults – toasty warm on chilly evenings!

As always dynamic, inspirational people are at the heart of Live Ribble Valley magazine and this month is no exception. In our last issue we acknowledged the gradual transformation from summer to autumn and how this aligned to many local businesses that have slowly evolved to become successes across the UK and around the globe. In this issue we have a good mix of people who are venturing out into the world to launch fresh ideas.

A new kid on the block is Samuel Galloway, a young architect graduate who is passionate about gardening and landscaping. Currently working for a housing association, Samuel loves to optimise community outdoor space on his projects and recently won a medal at RHS Tatton Park for a stunning display that represented diversity and resilience.

We also meet two coffee aficionados who after spending time in Boston and Costa Rica, have set up a coffee roasting business here in Lancashire. We chat to creatives who have just finalised a podcast series for Sport England and we see how David Moore’s skills and patience, is leading to success for his artisan whisky distillery in Waddington.

We hope you enjoy this autumnal issue of Live Ribble Valley!

Jan Woolley Editor

JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY

Winning a medal for his first exhibit at the prestigious RHS Tatton Park Flower Show has encouraged Samuel Galloway to develop his love of landscaping

Ayoung architect graduate has recently enjoyed considerable success at the Royal Horticultural Society’s Tatton Park Flower Show winning silver for his Harmony Arch Long Garden design.

From a young age, Samuel Galloway has always been interested in gardening having created beautiful cottage-style borders working alongside his mum and nan: “They both loved gardening. When I was young, people always used to ask what my hobbies were and it was only when I became a bit older that I realised gardening was my hobby and passion. I had been involved in gardening from such a young age it was just naturally part of my life,” explains Samuel, who used gardening as a ‘de-stresser’ when sitting exams at school.

“I broke up old pallets to create a vegetable garden, which turned out to be great and it was about this time I started to think about studying architecture at university. I have always been interested in ‘context’ within

the surroundings in which we live.”

Samuel went on to study architecture at Sheffield University: “While I was interested in buildings and how we exist within the spaces, my love of the outdoors and gardening continued.

THE BORDER WAS DESIGNED TO INSPIRE REFLECTION OF ONE’S TRUE SELF, SET AGAINST A BACKDROP OF NATURE’S DIVERSITY AND RESILIENCE

“I considered studying both architecture and landscape but doing a dual degree was a lot of work – in hindsight I wish I had done it because I did have the motivation do both.

“While I was studying architecture I always veered towards landscaping,” recalls Samuel, who during his studies and the subsequent pandemic, found refuge in gardening.

“I started researching heritage plants and vegetables along with architectural plants which add structure to a garden.”

Around the same time Samuel became involved with Astley Hall Walled Garden – a project that engages members of the community in gardening. It was also something that Samuel was able to adapt and apply to his university studies at the time: “I very much focused on the landscape side of architecture – the urban fabric and the relationship between the buildings and their surroundings.”

Taking a year out after university to study at a London architectural studio gave Samuel the knowledge and confidence to embrace landscaping, working on an educational project at the National Gallery: “Nearby schools got involved in the project to re-design an education centre in order to get the best out of the available space. There were different structures to work with – it was a really interesting time for me.”

When he returned to his roots in the north, Samuel began working for a housing association applying his architectural skills to optimise space for social housing, working within the community to achieve the best outcome.

“This is something I really enjoy,” adds Samuel, who recently decided to enter the RHS Tatton Long Border category: “To enter you had to submit a design, a perspective image, a planting plan and a funding scheme.

“For me it was very much a passion project – something I had always wanted to do.”

Submitting his design back in February,

Samuel was over the moon to discover his Harmony Arch design had been accepted for the summer show: “There was an awful lot of logistics involved!” recalls Samuel.

Summoning help from the volunteers he had worked with at Astley Hall, Samuel and his team were able to construct the garden within four days.

His design, based on personal gender and identity, was exceptionally well received by the public and the judges, who described the border as: “An arresting array of plants in a powerful palette of pink and puce that stand proud against four wicker arches, themselves symbolic of the journey of discovery and one’s ability to embrace discovered identity.”

LANDSCAPING WITHIN OUR STREETS AND CITIES CAN CHANGE THE WAY WE THINK, IT CAN ALTER OUR MOOD AND ENHANCE OUR WELLBEING

Samuel adds: “The border was designed to inspire reflection of one’s true self, set against a backdrop of nature’s diversity and resilience.

“It was a garden for everyone in terms of plants that have colour, texture and form. There were spiky blues and golden yellows, while central to the theme was a series of willow arches.”

The arches in Samuel’s long border, were placed in a particular way which only aligned when viewers stood in a certain spot in the garden: “They encouraged people to try and find the spot where they aligned, which became their own personal journey. It was quite an emotive subject.”

Today Samuel is developing his landscaping and is hoping to set up a business that combines his passion for planting combined with his love of architecture: “Winning silver at Tatton was fantastic but it wasn’t the focal point. The people I met, I became friends with and it has made me even more passionate about how landscaping within our streets and cities can change the way we think, it can alter our mood and enhance our wellbeing –and that’s what I find fascinating.” n

The Harmony Arch

Designed by Samuel

Galloway

An arresting array of plants in a powerful palette of pink and puce stand proud against four wicker arches, themselves symbolic of the journey of discovery and one’s ability to embrace discovered identity.

Thematic planting includes Thalictrum delavayi (Chinese meadow rue) and Gypsophila paniculata (baby’s breath), both chosen for their light, airy appearance that reflects the fluidity of identity, while Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘Overdam’ (v) (feather reed grass) stands tall, embodying pride.

Explore this season’s stylish home furnishings, bold statement pieces, glamorous homeware, and more. Visit us in-store or online to browse our incredible selection today.

www.kitchendesigncenter.com

The Future of Cabinet Making

Look behind the scenes at The Secret Drawer’s apprenticeship scheme, keeping the centuries-old craft of cabinet making alive.

Turning wood into fine furniture requires understanding of raw timber, attention to detail, a mastery of specialist tools and highly trained skills. We look behind the scenes at TSD, who are keeping traditional cabinet making alive with the upskilling of the younger generation.

Mastering the techniques required to turn any raw material into a crafted object requires sensitivity, skill, patience, and intelligence along with hard work and years of training.

The role of a modern cabinet maker is more than a job, it is a true vocation. More recently acute labour shortages of skilled workers have left the industry questioning why individuals are not keen to learn this ancient and valued craft.

A “cabinet maker” makes high-quality wooden furniture, after an apprenticeship and on-the-job training. It takes years to learn about the qualities of different woods and to hone making skills, but through dedication and a genuine passion it is an incredibly rewarding profession.

In the last few decades computer driven mass production has given us a much greater choice, but many believe this unlimited choice has come at the cost of a loss of individuality and quality. More recently a genuine social change has made many more mindful of the food we eat, where and how products are made, as well as the amount and type of fuel we use.

More and more people are rejecting mass-produced products in favour of handmade items that will last a lifetime rather than the ‘fast furniture’ of recent years.

Many consumers are keen to source high quality bespoke furniture that enhance their homes and reflect their personality. Bespoke furniture designed and made today will be the antique of the future. A beautiful, well-made piece of furniture can outlive its owner, it can be handed down through the generations, it can be refreshed, altered, renewed and even moved to a new house.

The Secret Drawer offer opportunities for aspiring cabinet makers through their Apprentice scheme. Offering a training program in their workshop, alongside a college course. Everything is learnt ‘on the job’. “Our workshop, positioned in an old textile mill building looking onto the Leeds-Liverpool Canal in Skipton, is a bright, airy, and extremely organised space; filled with tools, craft and the aroma of creativity.” Says Secret Drawer owner and designer, Richard Mason.

“Our designers work closely with clients creating bespoke designs that reflect their personality but also adhere to our design principles of proportion, form and practicality.”

“We surround our young apprentices with experienced people who are passionate about

their craft and enjoy sharing their knowledge.”

He continues, “Every job in the workshop starts with a ‘setting out’ rod – a long piece of wood that provides the precise, full-size measurements for all the furnture to be made for each room. This is accompanied by beautifully hand drawn plans.”

“Our team relish the challenges that each project presents, the enormous sense of achievement that they receive from creating something with their hands enhanced by our one cabinet maker one job philosophy, meaning they make the project from start to finish. We design for every room in the home, so, a huge variety of projects go through our workshop every year, ensuring that cabinet makers stay fresh and excited about every piece of furniture they make.”

SKIPTON | ILKLEY

The Secret Drawer derives its name from the tradition of secreting a compartment within furniture. Each cabinet maker must design the secret drawer, specifically for the piece they are making, then create and hide it, along with the mechanism within the furniture. A true expression of individual creativity and concealment. It can take clients years to find their secret drawer!

The Old Chapel, Sawley Street, Skipton, North Yorkshire, BD23 1SX | T: 01756 797800 27-29 Church Street, Ilkley, West Yorkshire, LS29 9DR | T: 01943 600295

secret-drawer.co.uk | info@secret-drawer.co.uk

WITH STYLE SPOOKY

Take a look at our top tips to create a Halloween interior that is spookily chic and effortlessly elegant

Halloween-inspired interior design trends have gained popularity in recent years, blending spooky elements with sophisticated decor. Here are some trends that capture the Halloween spirit while maintaining an elegant and stylish interior.

MOODY COLOUR PALETTES

Deep blacks, charcoals and midnight blues are popular choices for walls, furniture and accessories. These colours create a dramatic backdrop that’s perfect for highlighting Halloween decor.

Adding rich accents in burnt orange, deep burgundy and dark purple creating warmth and a touch of luxury.

GOTHIC

GLAMOUR

With a Victorian influence, this trend includes ornate furniture, antique mirrors and velvet upholstery. Gothic-inspired chandeliers and candelabras enhance the moody atmosphere. Sophisticated use of skull motifs in artwork or as decorative objects can add an edgy touch without overwhelming the space.

PUMPKIN CHIC

Incorporate natural elements with pumpkins in a refined way, such as painted in metallics

(gold or silver) or matte black, rather than the traditional orange, is popular. Display them in clusters on mantels or as table centre-pieces.

Textured decor is effective using pumpkins made of different materials like glass, velvet or ceramics adds texture and variety to the decor.

SPOOKY YET SUBTLE LIGHTING

Ambient lighting, which is low and warm is key. Think about using candles, lanterns or string lights to create a soft, eerie glow.

Statement pieces are a must with chandeliers creating a Gothic flair, lamps and dark shades can also serve as focal points, casting shadows that enhance the Halloween vibe.

WHIMSICAL HORROR

Playful details can incorporate quirky, whimsical elements like black cats, ravens or bats in a tasteful manner. This could be

through patterned cushions, wall art or small decorative items.

Mismatched styles can combine different elements, such as modern furniture with vintage, horror-inspired accessories, which can create an eclectic, layered look.

NATURE MEETS HALLOWEEN

Use dried flowers, branches and leaves in arrangements to evoke a sense of decay in an elegant way. These can be displayed in dark vases or used as wreaths.

Incorporating natural materials like wood, stone and leather can also add a rustic yet eerie touch to the decor.

THEATRICAL DRAPERY

Luxurious, heavy drapes in dark, rich fabrics such as velvet or brocade create a dramatic effect and enhance the Halloween atmosphere, while layering different fabrics, such as lace over velvet, adds depth and a gothic, theatrical vibe.

ELEGANT SPIDERWEBS

Incorporating spiderweb patterns in a subtle way, such as through lace curtains and table runners adds a spooky yet sophisticated touch. Using metallic spiderweb decorations can add a modern, chic element to the decor.

These trends allow homeowners to embrace the Halloween spirit in a way that’s both stylish and seasonally appropriate, making it easy to transition into the autumn and winter months. n

CULTIVATING CHANGE

The team at Bannister Hall prides itself on giving everyone access to their specialist knowledge, plants and landscaping materials in order to create beautiful outdoor spaces

Founded by visionary Alan Lovell, Bannister Hall was built upon the principle of creating an inspirational hub for architects and landscapers. Whilst originally established to serve trade-only customers, just three years ago Bannister Hall opened its doors to the public, giving everyone access, not just to the nursery

stock but to the wealth of expertise previously only available to the trade.

“Our expertise isn’t something you can find everywhere,” emphasises CEO Jon Hollywood. “Our staff are passionate about landscaping. They don’t just sell products, they help clients realise their visions. Our purpose is to not simply provide them with materials but also the creativity and advice to bring their ideas to life.”

Bannister Hall’s journey from a trade supplier to a public destination is just one example of the progressive approach held by Alan and Jon. The transition signified not just further growth but was also a reflection of recent industry trends in response to the changing needs of homeowners eager to

cultivate beautiful outdoor spaces.

The team works hard to cultivate relationships with other high-profile landscaping brands, particularly those which share Bannister Hall’s commitment to quality and sustainability, further enhancing their offering. As authorised retailers of Millboard decking, Bannister Hall recommends Bedrock Landscapes, who are authorised installers.

Every single aspect of a garden or landscaping project can be covered off in one place making the whole process so much easier to manage and complete.

“We’re constantly looking for ways to provide our customers with the best options available,” Alan remarks. “Partnering with reputable brands such as Millboard and

installers such as Bedrock Landscapes allows us to ensure that our clients receive top-notch materials that will stand the test of time.”

While building relationships with other complementary brands is clearly important, the Bannister Hall team is dedicated to the innovation and development of unique products relevant to the landscaping industry. The Pietra Paving system for example, was developed and manufactured by them to address specific problems encountered when laying paving taking into consideration the lengthy installation time coupled with the need for strength and durability.

Both Alan and Jon are firmly committed to ongoing investment and evolution of the Bannister Hall brand and later this year will see the launch of an exciting brand-new arm to the business making Bannister Hall accessible to everyone irrespective of their location.

OUR NEW WEBSITE WILL EMPOWER CUSTOMERS TO EXPLORE ALL THE OPTIONS FROM THE COMFORT OF THEIR HOMES. IT’S A GAME CHANGER FOR US AND OUR CUSTOMERS

Their new website, everythingplants.co.uk will enhance the shopping experience for customers. Simple to navigate and very userfriendly, visitors will be able to browse the full range of plants and materials available at Bannister Hall, order products online and benefit from nationwide delivery.

The decision to extend online reflects a broader trend in retail but is particularly significant for the landscaping industry, where visualisation and accessibility are crucial.

Jon highlights: “Our new website will empower customers to explore all the options from the comfort of their homes. Additionally, it allows us to serve a wider audience across the country. It’s a game changer for us and our customers.”

The company’s continued evolution is deeply rooted in its founding principles –exceptional customer service, expert knowledge and a passion for creating beautiful environments.

As they approach 25 years in business, Alan and Jon are excited about what the future might hold for the team. With a steadfast commitment to innovation and sustainability, Bannister Hall is poised to continue shaping outdoor spaces that reflect the individuality and creativity of all its clients. The upcoming launch of the new

website is only the beginning of their vision –a vision dedicated to making high-quality landscaping materials and expert advice accessible to all.

“We’re here to inspire people,” Jon concludes. “Whether you’re a seasoned landscaper or a homeowner looking to spruce up your garden, we want to be your go-to resource for all things landscaping.” n

Landscaping Supplies Centre & Nurseries

Potter Lane, Higher Walton

Preston PR5 4EN 01772 877087

bannisterhall.com

Bannister Hall

One of the most significant changes you can make is investing in one of the latest state-of-the-art log burners from the likes of Morso, Esse, Jotul or Stovax. Call in to meet Nick Astley at Fuelmizas in Ribchester to see a whole host of these beauties in action.

Step into Fuelmizas and you will appreciate just how efficient these stoves are – they look good and create an unbeatable ambience as well as throwing out an abundance of controllable heat.

Fuelmizas was founded more than 50 years ago and Nick has a wealth of knowledge with regards to heat output, clean-burn credentials and eco-design compliance.

In the heart of the Ribble Valley, Fuelmizas

TURNING UP THE HEAT

Whether it’s a fuel efficient cooker or a beautiful log-burning stove, check out your options at Fuelmizas to prepare yourself, and your household, for the chilly winter months ahead.

Photography: Kirsten Platt

Providing beautiful focal points for country homes and contemporary new-builds, a log-burner is a superefficient way to keep warm and toastie as the nights draw in.

Similarly, a range cooker looks equally at home in a cosy cottage as a state-of-the-art home – and there is a huge collection of both traditional and quirky colours – not to mention the latest technology that means cooking is controllable and cost-effective.

LOG-BURNING STOVES

With the current cost of living crisis, more and more householders are scrutinising their energy bills and looking at ways they can economise and make small adjustments in order to save hard-earned cash.

currently has good availability on most models and installation is swift and efficient. You could easily have a beautiful log-burner installed before the cold, winter weather and dark nights set in!

RANGE COOKERS

Modern range cookers offer more flexibility than ever before with dual hotplates, traditional cast iron hobs and induction zones that enable you to have total control. ESSE’s range of cookers heat up in minutes and are low-cost to run. Surround-heat technology means cakes and bread rise evenly without switching shelves, while the gentle heat from the cooker itself gives an unbeatable warm and welcoming glow to your kitchen.

Knowledgeable and extremely familiar with all the modern technology, Nick will talk you through all the energy saving benefits of an ESSE cooker, which are favoured by professional chefs and home cooks.

At Fuelmizas customer service and knowledge are paramount – call in soon to find out more! n

As we have all been made aware in the past couple of months, heating your home is essential for personal health and wellbeing –as well as keeping the fabric of the building in good shape.

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

Bee Mill, Preston Road Ribchester PR3 3XJ 01254 878368 fuelmizas.co.uk

Fuelmizas

HIS REPUTATION GOES BEFORE HIM!

Catherine Robinson meets an expert painter and decorator whose thriving business has grown through word of mouth

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

adorned: “I’ve worked for quite a few Ribble Valley celebrities, although I can’t disclose names!” he adds.

Darren is also trusted by building firms and rental companies as well as by the single-home dwellers whose walls have been graced by his bespoke touch for years.

THE NUMBER OF REPEAT CUSTOMERS I GET TELLS ITS OWN STORY

Darren, whose company is based in Oswaldtwistle, skilfully undertakes all forms of interior and exterior decorating. He regularly works alongside professional designers and is happy to undertake emulsion, gloss and masonry painting as well as wallpapering: “Wallpaper can make a really big impact on a room.”

Darren, whose work is displayed on his Instagram page, prides himself on his old school approach. He understands that a good job relies on thorough preparation. He sands and prepares the surfaces that need it to ensure he gets the flawless result he has become renowned for. Darren also works cleanly and efficiently.

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

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

DM Decorating 07857 119083

dm_paintingdecorating

WILDLIFE IN AUTUMN

Tidying up for the winter may be a priority in autumn but clearing summer bedding and shrubs can create disturbance for wildlife at a time when they are searching for a safe place to over-winter

In the garden try and resist the urge to clear up too much and maybe look at creating a wild corner here and there that can provide crucial refuge for wildlife as the temperature begins to fall.

Tops tips for creating a wild corner include:

• Choose an area in the garden that is not near a pathway, a shaded corner or secluded space

• Plant a native shrub at the back of the area such as a hawthorn or dogwood

• Pile rotting logs or branches at the base of the shrub, making sure you give enough space from the base if newly planted

• Include a small rock pile

• Allow grass and weed seedlings to germinate and at a later date add a few hardy, wildlife attracting plants

In addition to wild corners, many gardeners extend their season of colour by growing

late-flowering perennial plants such as rudbeckias, sedums and asters that continue to attract pollinators and help gardens shift smoothly from summer to autumn. Asters are easy to grow and come in shades of blue, purple, red, pink and white. Bees and butterflies love them as a late-season source of nectar. They’ve also had a name change and are now known as symphyotrichum.

ASTERS ARE EASY TO GROW AND COME IN SHADES OF BLUE, PURPLE, RED, PINK AND WHITE. BEES AND BUTTERFLIES LOVE THEM

Symphyotrichum x frikartii ‘Monch’ is one of the first to start the season early in late July with flowers that are large and widely spaced with bright purple petals surrounding a yellow button.

October, rather than spring, is the best time of year to plant new perennials in the garden and adding a compost mulch now will save on watering new plants next spring. Other top jobs for gardeners this month include:

• Cutting back perennials that have died down. Perennials are not demanding plants, but trimming them after flowering finishes in autumn helps improve their appearance and flowering. However, you can leave some stems over winter to provide homes and food for wildlife, and then trim back in spring.

• Moving tender plants, including aquatic ones, into a greenhouse or conservatory. In frost-prone areas a conservatory is the ideal place for overwintering tender perennials and marginally hardy plants from the garden. Cold-sensitive plants in need of good light levels and dry, frost-free conditions will also benefit.

• Dividing herbaceous perennials. If done regularly this will ensure healthy, vigorous plants that will continue to perform year after year. It also offers the opportunity to multiply your plants. n

WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY:

It is a great time to plant or move deciduous trees, shrubs and hedges as the soil is still warm so the roots will begin to grow immediately. It is essential to give them a really good soak when you do so and to repeat this weekly until the ground is really wet or the leaves have fallen. Deciduous plants on the other hand can be moved or planted any time between October and the middle of March.

Monty Don

Autumn is now definitely here for real, and it feels colder. It’s a beautiful time of year, with the trees changing colour. Sometimes it may seem pointless raking, when the wind blows even more leaves onto the lawn, but just think of all the lovely leaf mould you can make!

RHS

Photography: Shutterstock.com

Peter Rhys Williams

Tim’s

We look forward to welcoming you.

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

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

NEW SEASON INTERIORS

As autumn arrives, the world of interior design embraces a shift toward spaces that are not only stylish but also profoundly reflective of personal taste

This season’s trends are about creating environments that stand out while providing comfort and a sense of individuality.

From luxurious textures to nature-inspired tones, here are the top trends to make your home a sanctuary of style and personality this autumn.

LUXURIOUS TEXTURES: DEEP JEWEL TONES

Deep jewel tones are the hallmark of the season’s decor, bringing a rich and sophisticated color palette into your home. These bold hues – ruby red, sapphire blue and emerald green – are not confined to small accents but are embraced in larger, more impactful ways.

Whether it’s a plush sofa, an upholstered chair, or even a statement rug, these vibrant colours add a touch of elegance and warmth to any space. The intensity of jewel tones creates a striking contrast that elevates your decor, making it both inviting and opulent.

NATURAL MATERIALS: WOOD BEYOND THE BASICS

Wood is making a solid statement in 2024 decor with its timeless appeal. This season focuses on high-quality, beautifully crafted wooden pieces that add warmth and a sense of well-being to your home.

Whether a hand-crafted dining table that becomes the heart of your home or a sleek wooden side table, these elements bring enduring elegance and character to your space. Far from being mundane, these wooden pieces are designed to stand out, offering both style and durability.

They’re not just furniture but investments in your home’s aesthetic and comfort.

WELL WORTH A VISIT!

The highest quality UK and International fireplace brands all under one roof! Made to Measure Window Blinds, Shutters and Curtains. We offer the largest range of fabrics, colours and styles. SHUTTERS | BLINDS | CONCEALED BLINDS CURTAINS | MOTORISED | OUTSIDE SHADING

From Chesneys to DRU, Evonic to Dik Guerts - we have six dedicated showrooms waiting to present to you, with nearly 100 fires available for live demonstration.

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

James Albert, 278 Fylde Road, Lancashire, Preston, PR2 2NJ

W: jamesalbert.co.uk

E: hello@jamesalbert.co.uk

T: 01772 823311

WARM EMBRACE: EARTHY TONES

Earthy tones are taking centre stage, bringing the warmth and tranquility of nature into your home. Inspired by the rich palette of the outdoors, shades like deep terracotta, rich browns, muted greens, and warm ochres create a cosy, grounding atmosphere perfect for the fall season.

Imagine a living room bathed in a soft clay tone, enhanced by a warm nude velvet bench and a deep red marble coffee table – together, they craft a serene and sophisticated space.

ART MEETS FUNCTIONALITY

Sculptural furniture and decor are all about bold, artistic shapes that double as functional pieces. This trend brings in items like totem sculptures and furniture with striking, unconventional forms, turning everyday objects into statement pieces that define the room’s character.

These sculptural elements add a layer of sophistication and intrigue to your space, blending art with utility. Whether it’s a bold dining table with sweeping curves or a dramatic lamp, these pieces transform your home into a gallery of modern design.

MADE FOR YOU: PERSONALISE

Personalisation is mandatory this season with a strong trend toward unique, one-of-akind pieces that reflect your style. Whether it’s an antique mirror, a handwoven rug, or a bespoke piece of art, incorporating these items into your decor adds a layer of personal storytelling to your home.

Custom-built furniture tailored to your space is the perfect way to embrace this trend. A bespoke piece doesn’t just fit perfectly. It also is a testament to your taste, making your home truly yours. These personalised touches create a space as unique as you are, filled with items that carry meaning and tell your story.

TEXTURED DESIGN

Textured rugs add depth and visual interest to any interior space. The interplay of materials, shapes and colours creates a visually dynamic surface and a tactile experience that enhances comfort.

Geometric shapes and varied pile heights, such as high-low designs, bring a sculptural quality to a rug, while cut and loop pile combinations add intricate patterns and subtle dimensions. Embossed or carved patterns elevate the aesthetic appeal by giving the rug a captivating three-dimensional effect.

These elements work together to create a harmonious blend of style and warmth, making textured rugs perfect for creating cosy, inviting spaces rich in character and design.

Autumn marks a transformative moment in interior design, where style meets individuality. This season’s trends – from luxurious jewel tones to earthy, nature-inspired shades, and personalised, one-of-a-kind pieces – create inviting, comfortable spaces that reflect personal taste and tell unique stories. Whether through bold textures or handcrafted elements, autumn 2024 encourages us to make our homes a true sanctuary of warmth, elegance and character. n

hommes.studio

TIMELESS CRAFTSMANSHIP

Furniture designer Mark Kent leads Ben Hopkins through Royal Oak’s workshop where centuries old skills and modern techniques combine to create furniture that stands the test of time

It’s gratifying to know that in an age of AI and fast track modernism the centuries old craft of hand-made furniture is experiencing something of an uptick.

“Recent years have seen a return to traditional furniture-making with a younger generation appreciating it,” says Mark as he walks me through Royal Oak’s workshop located in the hills above Grassington.

Most of the furniture is British oak but American black walnut also makes an appearance, its rich dark tones contrasting beautifully with the lighter shades of oak.

If people want furniture made to spec it’s Mark they turn to. “I‘ll show them through the workshop, explaining the process. Then we’ll sit down. Work out the measurements. Put their idea onto paper and create what they want.”

RECENT YEARS HAVE SEEN A RETURN TO TRADITIONAL FURNITUREMAKING WITH A YOUNGER GENERATION APPRECIATING IT

Around us a team of up to eight craftsmen are doing just that, feeding huge cuts of oak through a system of saws, planers and computer-controlled machinery ready for the cabinet making department. It’s here that centuries old methods are made more efficient by modern techniques. Dovetail joints are measured and cut fast while modern glues replace and outlive the old resin-based adherents that crystallise and crumble with time.

Amid the sound of wood-saws and focused

activity cabinets are being made to spec while chairs are moulded into shape by the skilled hands of craftsmen. In a dust free corner a unique looking dining table imbued with the knots and swirls of an old oak tree appears ready for delivery.

“Nothing here goes to waste,” says Mark. “We can make shelves from the curved edges of elm and lampshades from off cuts.” Even the sawdust is collected, compressed and used for heating when the temperature dips. Which it often does in the exposed hillsides above Grassington.

Mark’s parents, Janet and Paul Kent

established the business in Headingley, Leeds back in the mid-seventies, relocating to Grassington in 1985. “We were originally called Kent Furniture, after the family name, but this caused a lot of confusion as people looking us up thought we were actually from Kent.”

The first couple of years in Grassington weren’t without adventure. “We lived in a caravan while dad renovated the barn into a workshop and home,” says Mark. Perched on a steep hillside with spectacular views over Wharfedale it’s good to know his sister, Joanne, remembers the caravan experience as both fun and an adventure. Recalling snow drifts and strong winds buffeting the caravan during the harsh winter months.

Today the family business is fronted by an outlet in Grassington where Joanne will meet and liaise with potential customers. Those looking for something bespoke will be met with an attitude of can do by both Mark and Joanne. “If someone comes to me and says, can you make this, I have to say yes,” Mark explains. “It’s impossible to survive by pigeonholing yourself. You have to be flexible and keep an eye on what’s going on.”

As the designer for Royal Oak Mark also takes it on himself to personally deliver many of the orders alongside one of the craftsmen, extending the bespoke service to the front door while ensuring each item reaches its owners in pristine condition.

Not all works are bound for the UK. Recently

NOT ALL WORKS ARE BOUND FOR THE UK. RECENTLY A 4.5-METRE-LONG TABLE FOUND ITS WAY TO JAPAN, WHILE A VISUALLY STRIKING DOUBLE BED FRAMED BY TALL BOBBIN POSTS IS CURRENTLY WAITING TO BE SHIPPED OUT TO AMERICA

a 4.5-metre-long dining table found its way to Japan, while a visually striking double bed framed by tall bobbin posts is currently waiting to be shipped out to America. The origins of the bed more curious than its destination. “This one was designed by a Swedish opera singer in 1890,” says Mark.

The opera singer in question was Jenny Lind, a one-time mistress of Felix Mendelssohn and known in her day as ‘The Swedish Nightingale’.

A slightly less musical client was ex PM Theresa May, ordering a meeting room table for 10 Downing Street. Unfortunately, Mark didn’t get to enter the doors of Downing

Street, instead, loading the table onto a security van and waving it goodbye as it made its way south.

If Yorkshire folk are known for calling a spade a spade then Mark is true to form when describing the work of Royal Oak. Pointing to a beautifully crafted cabinet he deadpans, with more than a hint of pride, “It’s just a box.” Just a box? “Yes. A complicated box, embellished and unique. But in its simplest form, just a box.” n

royaloakfurniture.co.uk

Experts and Innovators in Architectural Glass

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

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

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

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

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

HERE COMES AUTUMN…

At this time of year, your leaf blower will be your best friend –but it’s also the season to get all garden machinery serviced ready for spring!

With autumn here gardeners need to consider when their last mow will be, so lawns are set for their seasonal ‘hibernation’. It’s also the time to start planting bulbs to get a stunning pop of colour next spring – always a lovely sign that warmer weather is on its way! Plus it’s the time of year when gardeners need to start collecting ripe seeds from favourite flowers in readiness to plant next spring.

As the cooler months take over from the balmy days of summer, looking after your garden becomes a little less arduous but it’s always so much easier if you have the right

equipment for the job – and at Mowerpower gardeners are spoilt for choice!

As the busy gardening season draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to have your mowers, blowers, strimmers and hedge cutters serviced

THE TEAM’S PRODUCT KNOWLEDGE ENABLES EVERY CUSTOMER TO MAKE AN INFORMED CHOICE AND BUY THE MACHINE THAT’S RIGHT FOR THEM

to ensure they are all in tip-top shape, ready for the arrival of spring when the growing season begins and grass needs cutting and topiaries needs trimming.

NOW’S THE TIME…

If you need replacement gardening equipment, now is a great time to visit Mowerpower for great-value, end-of-season offers!

Mitox. With friendly, knowledgeable advice, you can be sure to get the right equipment for the job making even the most arduous task so much easier!

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

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

Mowerpower

Garstang Road Claughton-on-Brock Preston PR3 0RB 01995 643999

sales@mowerpower.co.uk mowerpower.co.uk

CLASSIC SHOW-STOPPERS

The latest classic At Home collection from TV cook Mary Berry joins her every-popular Signature and English Garden collections

Mary Berry’s stunning At Home collection, which joins her existing Signature and English Garden collections, has everything you need to cook and bake along with Mary at home!

As you’d expect from everyone’s favourite cook, the Mary Berry At Home collection features everything from easy-release non-stick bakeware for show-stoppers and fool-proof bakes to useful accessories, utensils and gorgeous casseroles in sage green ombre finish.

The Mary Berry At Home casseroles are made from cast aluminium and stainless steel for the utmost durability. Cast aluminium is much lighter than traditional cast iron, giving these classic casseroles universal appeal.

They are ideal for serving up roasted vegetables, hot pots, casseroles, stews and

lots more. Complete with a self-basting lid for maximum moisture and flavour, these casseroles are available from a number of online retailers while the wider Mary Berry’s At Home, English Garden and Signature collections are available from online retailers including Next.

THEY ARE IDEAL FOR SERVING UP ROASTED VEGETABLES, HOT POTS, CASSEROLES, STEWS AND LOTS MORE

The Signature collection represents understated elegance for everyday living –it is a true classic for modern times! Ideal for both informal dining and the most special of occasions – collect it, love it and treasure it!

The English Garden collection is a gorgeous collection that reflects Mary’s passion for gardening and nature through beautiful drawings of classic British birds and flowers combined with clean and classic product shapes. The collection has a timeless appeal. n

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

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

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

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

FROM LOOM TO LUXURY

This issue, fashion historian, Scott William Schiavone, delves into the rich history of the paisley shawl and its lasting legacy

As autumn approaches, fashion becomes all about cosy layers, rich colours and versatile pieces that can transition from the mild days to the cooler evenings. The shawl is a staple piece for autumn and the most famous is the paisley shawl.

The paisley shawl, a vibrant and intricately designed textile, has a rich history that spans continents and centuries. Originating from the Kashmir region in India, these shawls were first woven in the 15th century. The most distinctive feature of these shawls is the teardrop-shaped motif known as the ‘boteh’ or ‘buta’, which symbolises life and eternity in Persian culture. This design element is central to the paisley pattern, which later became globally recognised.

The shawls were originally made from the fine wool of the Changthangi goat, indigenous to the high altitudes of the Himalayas. The weaving process was labour-intensive, often taking years to complete a single shawl. These shawls became highly prized items in Europe during the 18th and 19th centuries, brought back by European merchants and

colonial officials who had encountered them in India.

The town of Paisley in Scotland, after which the pattern is named, became synonymous with these shawls during the early 19th century. The industrial revolution brought significant changes to textile production and

the Scottish weavers in Paisley began to imitate the Kashmiri shawls using Jacquard looms which allowed for the mass production, making them more affordable to the general public. The town became a major centre for the production of these shawls and the name ‘Paisley’ became closely associated with the pattern.

Paisley shawls reached the height of their popularity during the Victorian era. They were considered a symbol of wealth and status. The intricate designs and the luxurious feel of the shawls made them a fashionable accessory.

ORIGINATING FROM THE KASHMIR REGION IN INDIA, THESE SHAWLS

WERE

FIRST WOVEN IN THE 15TH CENTURY

The connection between paisley shawls and John Forbes Watson’s Textile Manufacturers of India books highlights the global influence and significance of Indian textiles during the 19th century. Published in the 1860s, Watson’s volumes were an extensive survey of India’s rich textile traditions. The books were distributed to all the major textile producing regions in the UK, including Preston which was a prominent cotton manufacturing hub. The Harris Museum is lucky to have a complete set in the collection. Among the many fabrics documented were the intricate shawls that had captivated European markets.

Image Credits

While John Forbes Watson’s books were instrumental in documenting the rich textile heritage of India, they were also problematic. Watson’s work, created during the height of British colonial rule, primarily served the interests of British manufacturers rather than those of the Indian artisans who created the textiles. By providing detailed descriptions and samples of each fabric, including shawls, Watson effectively enabled British and European manufacturers to replicate these designs on a large scale, without proper recognition or compensation to the original creators. This contributed to the decline of India’s traditional textile industries, as cheaper, machine-made and sometimes printed rather than woven versions flooded the market. Watson’s approach reflected a colonial mindset that viewed Indian craftsmanship as a resource to be exploited for the benefit of the British economy, rather than as a cultural treasure to be respected and preserved.

By the late 19th century, the vogue for paisley shawls began to wane as fashion trends changed and mass production techniques led to a decline in the quality of the shawls. As paisley shawls fell out of fashion, many of these exquisite textiles were repurposed into other garments such as coats, jackets,

Bottom left: Portrait of a Young Elegant Lady, 1824 by Eduard Friedrich Leybold (1798–1879).

Above left: Fashion print showing a woman wearing a paisley shawl, 1860s. The Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library.

Above middle: Child’s dress made from a printed paisley shawl, made in 1902. The Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library. Photo by Simon Critchley.

Above right: Textile Manufacturer’s of India, 1868 by John Forbes Watson. Design for a Shaw.

The Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library. Photo by Simon Critchley.

women’s and even children’s dresses, giving them a new lease of life. The Harris Museum has in its collections a beautiful child’s dress, dating from 1902, which is repurposed from a printed paisley shawl. In the design you can see how the tailor skilfully cut and stitched the intricate patterns into new forms, preserving the beauty of the paisley design while adapting it to the changing tastes of the time. The repurposed garments often became cherished heirlooms, passed down through generations, ensuring its continued relevance and presence in the fashion world.

TODAY, THE PAISLEY PATTERN REMAINS A TIMELESS DESIGN, FREQUENTLY USED IN FASHION AND HOME DÉCOR

Today, the paisley pattern remains a timeless design, frequently used in fashion and home décor. While the original handwoven Kashmiri shawls are rare and valuable, the legacy of the paisley shawl continues, representing a blend of cultural exchange, craftsmanship and industrial innovation. The enduring appeal of the ‘boteh’ or ‘buta’ motif stands as a testament to its rich history and global influence. n

Scott William Schiavone is a fashion historian and Curator of Decorative Art at The Harris Museum and Art Gallery in Preston. Scott, who has worked with fashion and textile collections in museums across the UK, has his own YouTube channel, Fashion &… and is an accredited lecturer for The Arts Society.

@scottschiavonefashioncurator

Fanny Waugh Hunt, 1866 by William Holman Hunt (1827–1910). Toledo Museum of Art.

PUT YOUR FEET FIRST THIS AUTUMN

Treat your feet to snug autumn and winter footwear by visiting fitright footwear – one of the UK’s leading footwear specialists

Don’t let your footwear stop you from getting out and about this autumn and winter. It’s important for our health and wellbeing that we keep moving and if your feet are hurting or you don’t have correctly fitting footwear, it stops us being as active as we’d like.

Fitright footwear is an independent and unique retail shoe shop which specialises in helping customers choose footwear that fits, is comfortable and is fit for purpose so that we are able to keep moving. Fitright footwear provides a free-of-charge measuring and fitting service for all customers by appointment only. It is astounding that statistics show 72 per cent of people are wearing shoes that don’t fit properly. They are either too tight, too short, not wide or deep enough or in some cases far too big.

Most people are unaware that feet change constantly. As we get older feet generally become longer, flatter and wider. Foot problems such as bunions, hammer toes and arthritis start to manifest themselves – our shoes don’t fit quite as well as they used to and we struggle to find shoes that fit and are comfortable.

Unfortunately, some of us don’t take any notice of the changes happening to our feet, which sadly only starts to make problems worse. If your feet are hurting, they are trying to tell you something and to ignore them is

CORRECTLY

FITTING FOOTWEAR IS AN INVESTMENT IN OUR HEALTH AND WELLBEING

not good or healthy for you or your feet. For example, recurring corns are potentially a sign that your shoes are not wide or deep enough.

Fitright footwear stocks different brands of shoes that provide a range of sizes, widths and depths to accommodate even the most awkward of feet and insoles are removable so that orthotics can be fitted.

Different brands and styles of shoes suit different feet. During your appointment our focus is to fit and try on a variety of footwear and then help you select the right shoe for your feet. We will ask questions about your feet to help us.

We aim to encourage our customers to think differently about footwear and

consider more carefully what footwear they are putting on their feet. The most important thing is to find our customers shoes that fit and are comfortable.

Wearing better footwear is not a cure to many foot problems but it goes a long way to helping reduce some of the pain and discomfort you may be experiencing and prevent further problems developing. Well-fitting shoes may also help with any knee, hip and back issues you might have.

Is it time you treated your feet and paid a visit to fitright footwear? If so, book your appointment now.

If it fits right, it feels right. Fitright footwear – with you every step of the way. n

Appointments only:

Available Wednesday to Saturday between 10am and 5pm

32D King Street, Clitheroe BB7 2EP 01200 425399

clitheroe@fitrightfootwear.co.uk

3 Bower Road, Harrogate HG1 1BB 01423 561172

harrogate@fitrightfootwear.co.uk

fitrightfootwear.co.uk

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Fitright Footwear

READY, STEADY… GO!

Get on your marks, to see the latest, new-season collections and super-stylish accessories from leading menswear store Scruples.

Photography: Kirsten Platt

As the seasons turn and the golden glow of autumn arrives, the team at Scruples 1984 couldn’t be more excited.

Stylish new collections of outerwear are arriving from globally recognised fashion houses including French-Canadian label Mackage and Paul & Shark along with beautifully-cut, classic pieces in fabulous fabrics from world-renowned Loro Piana and cashmere denim jeans from Richard J Brown.

“This season’s collections are simply stunning,” says store manager Tom Orrell, who with founder and director Stephen Collins, embarks on regular seasonal buying trips to all the major European fashion houses.

MACKAGE

Mackage is a long-standing outerwear specialist and this season at Scruples the label has surpassed all expectations with a new seasonal colour – ‘Trench’. Scruples 1984 is the only UK stockist of two coats in this shade. The quilted Roland and Graydon are totally exclusive to Scruples as Tom explains: “We love Mackage and are delighted that we are the only stockists in the UK of these coats in this season’s signature colour, Trench, which is a light beige. Mackage is a highperformance label that never disappoints.”

THIS SEASON SEEMS MORE EXCITING THAN EVER WITH INNOVATIVE NEW DESIGNS, FEATURING LOTS OF INSPIRATION FOR A SUPERSTYLISH, NEW LOOK

PAUL & SHARK

A favourite with Scruples, long-standing Paul & Shark has created some stunning new designs for the A/W seasons with two

outstanding weather resistant soft-shell jackets that have been added to the early release collection that include co-ordinating overshirts, polo and tees – with more collections due to arrive any time!

HERNO

The Italian giant! “We’re really impressed with this season’s Herno collection,” says Tom, who adds: “Herno has realigned itself with our philosophy here at Scruples, which

is fabulous!” With a collection of new sportsperformance puffas with their long-line and fur-lined parka styles, the Herno collection this season is simply stunning.

LORO PIANA

With the introduction of new seasonal fabrics by Loro Piana, Scruples has an exclusive collection thanks to their unique collaboration with this world-renowned label. Autumn shades include stylish palettes of beige, purple and aubergine, while Loro Piana’s, beautiful pièce de résistance cashmere, features in outstanding, made-to-measure, tailored jackets and blazers in blue and rustic pink with contrasting lining: “The lining is really ‘out there’!” says Tom. “It’s bold, it’s loud and it’s colourful, making these pieces represent the season while being ultra-stylish and super-fun.”

RICHARD J BROWN

At Scruples Richard J Brown (RJB) has become synonymous with jeans – not just any jeans. Like Scruples other top-notch denim brands, including Jacob Cohen and Tramarossa, RJB pieces are outstanding in cut, fit and wearability. This season sees RJB launch an exclusive cotton-cashmere blend fabric giving a clean, classic cut that feels ultra-soft and totally refined – in eight colourways, including charcoal, beige, taupe and mushroom.

PARAJUMPERS

Incredibly impressed with Parajumpers, Scruples 1984 has brought a new collection back for the season. Tonal branding, sports

performance jackets with amazing new designs, this small, capsule collection really demonstrates the direction of the brand –

RICHARD J BROWN HAS LAUNCHED AN EXCLUSIVE COTTON-CASHMERE BLEND FABRIC GIVING A CLEAN, CLASSIC CUT THAT FEELS ULTRA-SOFT AND TOTALLY REFINED

representing phenomenal value for money and aesthetically sharp. Tom says: “Parajumpers was probably our most popular collection of

22/23, but the following season we went on to introduce Herno, Canali plus others. However, after being invited to the new showroom in London and seeing the products, we are excited to follow the brand’s direction and host this capsule collection in-store this season. There are three outstanding jackets, in various colourways with full tonal branding. They’re very cool – I’ve got one myself!”

Always excited to introduce the new-season collections, Tom adds: “This season is no exception. We buy way in advance – we are currently buying for next spring/summer –so when the collections arrive, they create a real buzz for the team in-store and among our customers.

“This season seems more exciting than ever with innovative new designs, featuring lots of inspiration for a super-stylish, new look!” n

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

scruplesmenswear.co.uk

@scruplesmenswear

@scruplesmens

Scruples

THE LARGEST STOCKIST OF

QUALITY COUNTRY

CLOTHING IN THE NORTH WEST

in stock at Velvet which was founded by Deborah McDermott back in 2010 and under her watchful, well-trained eye, has become renowned throughout the North West for her wonderful portfolio of leading brands.

Always keeping ahead of the industry, Deborah and her team at Velvet keep their customers bang up to date with the arrival of new stock, with regular posts and videos on Facebook.

“There is always huge interest when we get new stock in, it’s a very exciting time for us!” says Deborah. “We often only have each individual piece in one particular size so if ladies see something they like on our Facebook posts, they can get it straight away and they don’t miss out.”

INSPIRING INDEPENDENT

Autumn has brought with it some stunning, new-season collections for men and women at the region’s leading, independent fashion store, Velvet

Among the stunning independent businesses that have been established in Ramsbottom is Velvet.

A gem in the heart of this lovely town, Velvet stocks world-

renowned labels and has become the ‘go-to’ place for those seeking quality fashion that will take you from season to season with beautiful twists on classic pieces.

With the arrival of autumn, all the new-season styles are now

VELVET KEEP THEIR CUSTOMERS BANG UP TO DATE WITH REGULAR POSTS AND VIDEOS ON FACEBOOK

If you’re a lady who prefers to visit the store – you’re also in for a treat! The rails at Velvet are carefully themed with top labels – each complementing each other and with a team of experts on hand to advise, you’re sure to discover a whole host of looks that are perfect for the autumn/winter season: “While we are now buying for spring/summer 25, there’s a real buzz around the autumn/winter collections that are arriving. They are absolutely stunning!” adds Deborah.

JOSEF RIBKOFF

New to Velvet for autumn is Josef Ribkoff – a label that has over the years, become a name synonymous with timeless elegance and glamour. Not governed by trends, the Ribkoff label embraces colour and sophistication with a maximalist approach to style and a long-

Photography: Roger Moore

standing commitment to craftsmanship. Explore the latest Ribkoff collections at Velvet!

DOLCEZZA

With two decades in the industry, the Dolcezza collections, which are made in Europe, are unique and simply stunning. This autumn/winter check out the exclusive ‘Artists’ Collection’ at Velvet featuring the work of selected artists in a combination of co-ordinating pieces. Turkish artist Basak Eraslan is featured,

among others, this season at Velvet with her CityLife separates –the designs are based on Eraslan’s paintings that have been digitally transferred to luxurious fabrics: “Customers come here because they want something different and Dolcezza perfectly reflects this,” says Deborah, who is delighted with the collection.

BARBOUR, WHITE STUFF & SEA SALT

All under one roof at Velvet – these classic English labels are all famed for robust quality, outdoor living and timeless design: “That’s the

beauty of shopping at Velvet,” adds Deborah, who opened a second shop just down the road to accommodate more stunning labels for both men and women.

BARBARA LEBEK & ROBEL

Two modern, feminine, vibrant labels – Lebek is renowned for pieces that range from elegant to sporty. High quality is important to Velvet and their long-standing, loyal customer base – but so is a good price point so expect great performance and value. A perfect example, Robel, is famed for super-fit trousers that are well known for their unrivalled cut and fabric.

…AND MANY MORE

Other designers at Velvet include Bianca, Atom, Finch Hatton, Lily and Me and many more that are all well known for their individuality and quality. There are also wardrobe staples such as vests, tees and a lovely selection of accessories, as Deborah explains: “We pride ourselves on choosing items that we know will stay in customers’ wardrobes for many seasons. They are timeless and that’s what our clients love about Velvet!” n

THERE IS ALWAYS HUGE INTEREST WHEN WE GET NEW STOCK IN, IT’S A VERY EXCITING TIME FOR US!

Velvet 5-17, 56-58 Bridge Street

Ramsbottom, Bury BL0 9AB 01706 823417

velvetramsbottom.co.uk

COMING UP!

Watch out – over the coming months Velvet will be hosting special ticketed evenings for guests including a super-glamorous Josef Ribkoff spectacular plus other autumn events to showcase the stunning collections!

FATFACE ANNA CARDIGAN IN BLUE £48 fatface.com

MARC CAIN WOOL AND ALPACA JUMPER £285 Shaw’s 2b Lynton Road Hillside Southport PR8 3AN 01704 563612 shawsfashion.co.uk

SIMS WEAR BLUE MARL CHUNKY LAMBSWOOL JUMPER £245 GREEN CHUNKY LAMBSWOOL JUMPER £245 simswear.com

SUPER COSY

SCHOFFEL LADIES SETTLE QUARTER ZIP JUMPER £169

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SIMS WEAR ORANGE MARL LAMBSWOOL JUMPER £195 simswear.com

DUBARRY MEN'S CALLAGHAN QUARTER ZIP JUMPER £179 vareys.co.uk

RIANI STAND UP COLLAR SPARKLY SWEATER £265 michellebshop.co.uk

LANX TANGO THICK SOCKS £19

LANX Unit 29

Mitton Road Business Park Whalley BB7 9YE lanxshoes.com

MACY CABLE BUTTON TANK £49.50 fatface.com

RIANI STRIPED COSY KNIT CARDIGAN £319 michelle b 2/3 King Edward Terrace Gisburn Road Barrowford BB9 8NJ 01282 605060 michellebshop.co.uk

SCHOFFEL MEN'S CALTON CABLE QUARTER ZIP JUMPER £149 vareys.co.uk

UNIQUE, VIBRANT & STYLISH

Our glasses are how we see the world and how the world sees us. Meena McDonald finds out more. Photography: Robin Lyndon

With a significant range of inspiring, engaging and educational videos with over 12 million views on YouTube, The Spectacle Factory has the largest glasses community in the world.

Combine that with local clients such as Patricia who is unique, vibrant, stylish and inspirational and you have a recipe for tremendous success!

A retired, widowed headteacher, Patricia really is a distinct lady whose glasses reflect her personality, which is what eyewear should be all about.

As Robert Sands who manages The Spectacle Factory, comments: “Our glasses are how we see the world, but they are also how the world sees us.

“Embracing spectacles is so much better than trying to fight the need to wear glasses. They are a way to reflect your own style and personality, and with two individual pairs, Patricia can change her look based on how she feels.”

One pair features an extremely distinguished, intricately, hand-designed gold-plated frame which she can wear to reflect her serious ‘headteacher’ look!

The other is an exquisitely unique, colourful pair which reflects her vivacious and fun personality. In fact, so much so,

that when she wore them recently whilst shopping at Booths, a gentleman approached her and commented: “You are like the gold under the rainbow!”

What a delightful compliment!

Patricia comments: “The range and quality of the glasses at The Spectacle Factory are second to none. This goes for the lenses as well as the frames. The technology they use gives such an accurate prescription, guaranteeing the best vision possible. It’s so beautiful to be able to see such a level of detail when I’m in my garden.”

Patricia continues: “I took up glass fusing as a hobby, after caring for my husband for eight years and now create distinct glass pieces for numerous schools, churches as well as for friends. My designs incorporate

bees, flowers, rainbows, mandalas and spirals and they are so well received that it’s such a joy to create them – and my glasses are so fundamental to the detail of each piece I produce.”

The quality of Patricia’s glasses is rather exceptional too.

A GENTLEMAN APPROACHED HER AND COMMENTED:

‘YOU ARE LIKE THE GOLD UNDER THE RAINBOW.’ WHAT A DELIGHTFUL COMPLIMENT!

The colourful pair are a limited edition produced by the iconic I.a.Eyeworks, a quirky brand worn by some of the most renowned celebrities in Hollywood such as Elton John, Rupaul, Pierce Brosnan, Andy Warhol and Arnold Schwarzenegger. The brand celebrates the diversity of faces and the uniqueness of individuals. The super glossy range, which is bright, shiny and fun is manufactured in Japan where the quality is immaculate and second to none throughout the globe.

The glasses are hand-made from acetate, a premium material which is derived from cotton and is extremely lightweight, making the glasses comfortable and relaxing to wear.

The lenses are from the excellent Zeiss

Smart Life range ensuring natural vision and are great for digital devices. Patricia’s pair has a ruby coating on them, which adds a mystery and unique dimension to the glasses! Additionally, they incorporate PhotoFusion technology and turn into sunglasses when she’s out in the sun.

Her more ‘serious’ pair are also manufactured in Japan by Masunaga who have been established since 1905. They are true pioneers of eyewear craftsmanship,

making glasses with incredible artistry with engravings in the metalwork, which would rival the best watchmakers.

This is evident in the level of detail and elaborate beauty in every handcrafted pair of glasses they produce. Patricia’s glasses are created from titanium, with an acetate rim and gold plated for a beautiful lustre. This pair has a relaxing brown and amber lens, which become sunglasses when needed.

The icing on the cake for Patricia is

THIS QUIRKY BRAND IS WORN BY SOME OF THE MOST RENOWNED CELEBRITIES IN HOLLYWOOD SUCH AS ELTON JOHN, PIERCE BROSNAN AND ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER

the service she receives from the team at The Spectacle Factory, which is educational, caring and personal.

Patricia concludes: “It is a joy to visit The Spectacle Factory. It is such a remarkable optician with a range of top quality products, innovative and outstanding eye technology, along with the dedicated service of the whole team.”

The Spectacle Factory is one of a handful of family-owned independent opticians in the UK. Their focus is on empowering their customers to make the best decision for their vision and eye health, helping them to understand any changes in their eyes and eliminating the mystery around the complexities of vision and glasses. n

For more details call 01772 312213 or visit the website at: thespectaclefactory.com

The Spectacle Factory Unit 1 Dewhurst Row Bamber Bridge Preston PR5 6BB 01772 312213

thespectaclefactory.com

CLINIQUE SMART

CLINICAL REPAIR AM PM RETINOID BALM £29

Concentrated treatment that softens and plumps the look of fine, dry lines and targets deeper ones too. clinique.co.uk

AUGUSTINUS BADER THE CLEANSING BALM £62

Dissolves and removes the daily build-up of dirt, oil, environmental impurities and stubborn make up, leaving skin nourished, hydrated, soothed and smooth. augustinusbader.com

SOOTHE & SMOOTH

With colder weather approaching these luxurious balms and moisturisers will help keep skin super-soft and ultra-smooth

BOBBI BROWN EXTRA ILLUMINATING MOISTURE BALM £51

ESPA TRI ACTIVE REGENERATING CALMING

CICA CLEANSING BALM £50

This comforting balm melts away make up and impurities, while the appearance of stressed skin is soothed with moisture. espaskincare.com

NEOM GREAT DAY WONDER BALM £17

A little supercharged pot of wonder for the skin. neomwellbeing.com

OSKIA MICRO EXFOLIATING BALM £58

This multi-award-winning exfoliating balm has been formulated to buff away tired skin cells and impurities whilst nourishing the lipid barrier to leave your skin soft, radiant and glowing. oskiaskincare.com

Microfine pearls instantly boost radiance while hyaluronic acid helps instantly hydrate and plump. Shea butter helps condition skin, while murumuru seed butter helps strengthen skin's protective barrier. bobbibrown.co.uk

CODE8 RADIATE

BEAUTY BALM £43

CHARLOTTE TILBURY MULTI MIRACLE GLOW £48

A cleanser, overnight mask and SOS face and body balm in just one product. The supercharged ingredients moisturise, smooth and brighten for fresh, youthful-looking, baby soft skin. charlottetilbury.com

NATURIUM PURPLE GINSENG CLEANSING BALM £21

Lift away makeup, oil, sunscreen and impurities with this emulsifying cleanser that leaves skin feeling softer and smoother. spacenk.com

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

Somewhere between a tinted moisturiser and a foundation, the combination of skin-enriching ingredients and revolutionary Knead technology ensures longlasting coverage, dewy radiance and enhanced skin nourishment. codeeight.com

HEALING SCARS

Scars can be more than a physical mark – they can affect confidence and serve as a constant reminder of past injuries or conditions.

Recognising this profound impact, Dr Miguel Montero of Discover Laser in Burnley has spent many years helping patients transform their skin and, in turn, their lives.

With decades of experience in skin health, aesthetics and dermatology and a specialisation in advanced laser treatments, Dr Montero combines expertise with cuttingedge technology to address a variety of scars.

“Every scar is unique, just like the person who bears it,” he says. “Our goal is to provide personalised treatments that improve appearance and restore confidence.”

At the heart of his approach is the UltraPulse® SCAAR FX, medicine’s most powerful CO2 laser. This minimally invasive treatment offers remarkable improvements for severe scars. Deep fractional resurfacing enhances the tone and texture of scarred skin while increasing its flexibility and alleviating discomforts such as pain and itching.

“UltraPulse® SCAAR FX allows us to reach deeper layers of the skin without causing damage to the surrounding tissue,” Dr Montero explains. “It’s a game-changer for those with scars previously considered untreatable.”

But his arsenal doesn’t stop there. Dr Montero often employs a combination of therapies - including ResurFX®, eDermastamp, enzyme correction and dermal fillers – to tailor treatments to each patient’s specific needs. This comprehensive approach ensures optimal results with minimal downtime.

Scars tell stories and, for some, can be an unwelcome reminder.

Dr Miguel Montero at Discover Laser in Burnley is using cuttingedge technology to help patients rewrite their skin story

IT’S ABOUT MORE THAN JUST THE PHYSICAL CHANGE. IT’S ABOUT HELPING PEOPLE FEEL CONFIDENT IN THEIR OWN SKIN AGAIN

Types of scars treated:

Acne Scars: Commonly indented or sunken, these atrophic scars result from severe acne. Treatments focus on stimulating collagen to smooth and level the skin.

Keloid Scars: Raised and extending beyond the original wound, keloid scars are often red and can be unsightly. They are more prevalent in darker skin tones and commonly appear on the chest and shoulders. Treatment helps reduce their size and visibility.

Hypertrophic Scars: These scars are raised but remain within the boundaries of the original injury. Treatment aims to flatten and soften the scar tissue.

Atrophic Scars: Characterised by sunken areas, these scars are treated to elevate them to the level of the surrounding skin.

Dr Montero understands that seeking treatment can be a significant step.

“We prioritise creating a comfortable environment where patients feel heard,” he notes. “It’s about more than just the physical change. It’s about helping people feel confident in their own skin again.”

Scars don’t have to define your story. With advanced treatments available at Discover Laser, there’s hope for those looking to improve their skin’s function and appearance.

If you’re considering taking the next step in your skin journey, book a consultation with Dr Montero today. Together, you can explore the possibilities and start rewriting your skin story. n

To book your Dermatology Consultation - call Discover Laser’s friendly team on 01282 420886 to book an appointment. To find out more about treatment visit: www.discoverlaser.co.uk

UltraPulse® SCAAAR FX treatment

Whilst trends in skincare change and with constant technology advancements, Emma Pearce knows there remains one element of her business which matters above everything else – consideration and care for her client’s individual and bespoke requirements.

She explains: “Although I have been in the business for 20 years, for those coming to see me for the first time, I never underestimate the need for reassurance. They need to have the knowledge that they are in the safest pair of hands for state-of-the-art, non-invasive treatments which are longer lasting and less intrusive than fillers, injectables or surgery.” With immediate results, Intense Pulsed Light Photo-rejuvenation for the treatment of thread veins is a popular choice.

YOUTHFUL SKIN: YOURS

FOR THE TAKING

Everyone can achieve a more youthful looking skin, as expert Emma Pearce explains, writes Katie Hammond

Using multiple wavelengths of light which penetrate the skin, without damaging the surface or surrounding tissue, IPL causes the walls of the blood vessels to collapse, making them less visible over time.

WHAT CLIENTS SAY…

“I wanted to stop using wrinkle-smoothing injections and fillers, so Emma recommended ultrasound therapy and non-surgical facelift –I also opted for thread vein removal to complete a more youthful effect. I can’t believe the overall transformation and don’t recognise myself in the mirror – it’s truly life changing!”

Chrissy

Emma continues: “The new laser technology for thread veins is a popular option and provides fast results with little to no downtime. Clients are delighted that one or two sessions can achieve such amazing results. It’s the same for moles and sun damage – people are surprised at how easy it is to remove them quickly and painlessly improving appearance and massively reducing the risk of skin cancers by eliminating them before they develop.”

With so many treatments to choose from, Emma is hard pressed to pinpoint the most popular, but goes on to explain the prolific benefits of Ultrasound 7D which is delighting clients with its results: “Ultrasound 7D uses the latest non-surgical technology to deliver a non-invasive lifting treatment. It is best known for tightening skin and as a nonsurgical and painless replacement for facelifts, boosting collagen, giving a firmer and natural rejuvenating effect.

“The beauty is, there’s no downtime due to its completely non-invasive nature.” n

£49 (usually £99) ULTRASOUND: £185 OFF each area (areas start from £250)

Closing date: 20th October 2024

AFTER images show results after a few weeks, PEAK results will be seen after three months.

I FEEL THAT I SHOULD LET YOU KNOW THAT I HAVE ENJOYED DINING OUT WHILE IN TENERIFE AND BEING ABLE TO ENJOY EATING THE FOOD I HAVE CHOSEN. MANY THANKS TO YOU, MARK AND KHURRUM FOR ‘RE-BUILDING’ ME!

age and I had a lot dental work done on my lower teeth which was failing.

“I had swapped dentists a number of times and then the dentist I moved to retired,” recalls Jack, whose wife Shirley knew

TOTAL TRANSFORMATION

In what was a complex challenge, the professionals at Renovo Dental formulated a dental implant plan that has been a huge success for patient Jack Morris

As an extremely active 83-yearold, Jack Morris has undergone life-changing, dental implant treatment that has given him the smile he has always wanted.

Jack has also seen the benefits to his health and confidence too – and it’s all thanks to the professionals at Renovo Dental.

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

After wearing loose dentures for several years and being advised on numerous occasions there was insufficient bone for dental implants, Jack felt he had come to the end of the road in his attempts to resolve the problem.

But when he asked for a consultation with the team at Renovo Dental, he began to see light at the end of the tunnel, as he explains: “I had lost my upper teeth at quite an early

Dr Usman Riaz of Renovo Dental, having undergone implants with him almost a decade ago.

“She was highly pleased with her implants,” says Jack. “I had always been told that I had insufficient bone to have implants and that it would be too complex – I wasn’t making any progress in improving the situation so I asked Shirley if Usman would see me for an assessment.”

Usman, a highly experienced clinician with

Photography: Robin Lyndon

a special interest in aesthetic and implant dentistry, readily agreed to see Jack, who went along to the beautifully restored Renovo surgery in the village of Chatburn: “Usman carried out the assessment – and while he said implants would be quite complex, he said it was possible.”

Usman explains: “Jack had been told that implants just weren’t possible, but he persevered. He was struggling with loose fitting, partial dentures and was finding it difficult to eat.

“During the initial assessment a CT scan was done and yes, it revealed Jack didn’t have sufficient bone. So, we agreed that bone grafting was the solution.”

Bone grafting was performed to replace destroyed bone surrounding the teeth roots. The bone graft then helped to serve as a platform for the regrowth of natural bone.

Testament to their skills, the team at Renovo, carried out the bone graft procedure in the same visit as the implant placements.

Working alongside Usman on Jack’s dentistry was highly experienced specialist periodontist and implant surgeon Dr Khurrum Hussain, who completed specialist training in periodontology at the prestigious Eastman Dental Institute, London.

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

Following treatment to improve bone density and the health of Jack’s gums, a period of healing followed before the final implant-supported teeth were fitted – and the results have been transformative for Jack:

“The team at Renovo have been superb! I can’t recommend them highly enough. They treat you as a client with total respect –you’re not just a number.

“All the staff are so reassuring. It’s made a terrific difference to my life,” says Jack, who spends time with Shirley in Tenerife each year. “I can now eat okay – and I like my food!” says the former award-winning Bolton butcher.

Speaking about Jack’s treatment, Usman adds: “Jack is a really sociable guy, prominent in the community and resolving his dental problems was a big thing for him. It wasn’t just about aesthetics it was a functional issue that was affecting his quality of life.”

As a brand-new clinic, Renovo has invested in the latest digital dental technology, including a state-of-the-art CT scanner which allows the team to plan and perform very precise implant surgery. This CT-guided surgery for implants is faster, easier and more efficient for surgeons and safer, more comfortable and results in faster healing for patients.

Preparation is key to the success and the team of dental nurses, dental technicians and implant surgeons, all play their part on the day.

WE FIRST MET JACK EARLIER THIS YEAR AND INFORMED HIM NOT ONLY HOW WE COULD HELP, BUT HOW WE COULD GIVE JACK THE SMILE HE ALWAYS WANTED…

“No two smiles are the same, so there is no ‘one-size-fits all’ when it comes to this level of implant dentistry,” says Usman.

“Like all our other patients, the implants have completely changed Jack’s smile,” adds Usman. “Implants can transform people –they gain confidence and restore self-esteem. It may sound clichéd, but this treatment really does change their lives.” n

Renovo Dental treats patients throughout the region, who have been referred by their general dentist as well as self-referrals

Renovo Dental

Pendle House, Clitheroe Road Chatburn BB7 4JY 01200 441000

hello@renovodental.co.uk renovodental.co.uk

@renovodental

Photography: Robin Lyndon

Photography: Robin Lyndon

NUTRITION WITH KELI

Nutritionist Keli Thompson explains how we can prepare for the festive season by getting our gut health in tip top shape, resulting in glowing skin and endless energy!

The festive season is fast approaching and the countdown is well and truly on! Achieving a happy, healthy gut for the celebrations will be our biggest Christmas gift as we head into the party season feeling fabulous. At the same time, we will be building resilience in advance, before we get stuck into more rich foods, sugary treats and festive drinks than normal. So, let’s get our glow on, inside and out and start prepping a healthy gut before the party season:

FIBRE-RICH FOODS

Fibre is your gut’s best friend as we run up to the festive season. It helps keep your digestion smooth and supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Focus on incorporating more whole-grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds.

HYDRATE

It’s easy to forget about drinking enough water, so grab yourself a cute water bottle and drink up! You could also add herbal teas into your hydration routine if you prefer hot drinks in the colder season – it all counts. Staying hydrated assists the break down of food, improves the absorption of nutrients and helps flush out toxins. I would aim for approximately two to three litres a day.

PROBIOTICS AND PREBIOTICS

Supporting your gut’s microbiome is key to gut health. You can introduce more beneficial bacteria to your gut by adding a diverse selection of probiotic fermented foods that are in yoghurt, kombucha, kefir, sauerkraut and miso. At the same time, introduce more prebiotics, as these feed the good bacteria and help them multiply – these are in fibre foods such as onions, garlic, asparagus, bananas and cacao – 85 per cent plus.

OMEGA-3

Omega-3 fatty acids are well known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can be especially beneficial during the party season. By incorporating more Omega-3-rich foods such as oily fish like salmon, sardines and anchovies will help reduce any existing inflammation, maintaining a balanced gut microbiome, better digestion and promoting radiant skin.

MOVEMENT

Exercise isn’t just good for your physique or staying fit, it also a game changer for your gut! It helps stimulate the digestive system, which reduces bloating and keeps you feeling your best. This could either be a brisk walk, a calming yoga session or weight training. Begin adding a little routine now in advance, so you feel amazing and you’re likely to keep it up during the festivities.

RELAX AND UNWIND

Stress messes with your gut, so don’t forget to take time to chill out before the chaos. Schedule in movie nights or a little pre-holiday pampering to keep your body calm and gut happy, ready for the festivities ahead. n nutritionwithkeli@outlook.com nutritionwithkeli

GET THE GLOW

RejuvaMed Health and Wellness now offers the brand new HydraFacial Syndeo at its state-of-the-art clinic in the heart of Clitheroe

HydraFacial Syndeo treatments are delivered by RejuvaMed’s expert aestheticians, Rachael and Gemma, who are both highly experienced HydraFacialists. Rachael, our clinic manager, has completed the most advanced level of training, and is certified as a HydraFacial Connect Master. RejuvaMed is also a verified clinic for HydraFacial, ensuring the highest standards in skin care.

HydraFacial Syndeo is the latest in advanced skin management systems, and a huge step up on older HydraFacial machines. It offers a unique treatment that combines exfoliation, hydration, extraction and antioxidant infusion all in one session. Unlike traditional facials that may focus on just one or two skin issues, HydraFacial Syndeo addresses multiple concerns simultaneously. It effectively targets fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, texture and clogged pores. Many patients notice a visible boost in radiance and smoothness after just one session, making it an excellent choice for immediate results before an event. With regular use, HydraFacial Syndeo provides ongoing benefits, improving overall skin health and appearance.

Are you ready to elevate your skincare routine? Discover HydraFacial Syndeo now at RejuvaMed, where we offer two exciting new HydraFacial treatments:

• The Deluxe

• The Platinum

To celebrate the launch of our Booster Bar at RejuvaMed, we’re excited to offer you a personalised approach to enhancing your skin’s health and radiance. Syndeo treatments can be customised with a selection of powerful boosters to address your specific skincare

needs, whether you’re seeking hydration, anti-ageing benefits, brightening or calming effects. Our Booster Bar is designed to deliver results tailored to your unique skin concerns in one seamless experience.

With RejuvaMed’s Deluxe HydraFacial, you’ll receive an introductory booster – choose either Dermabuilder for fine lines and wrinkles or Britenol for skin brightening.

For the Platinum HydraFacial, you can select any booster from our Booster Bar, featuring 10 fantastic options, including ZO Skin Health choices.

PATIENTS

NOTICE A VISIBLE BOOST IN RADIANCE AND SMOOTHNESS AFTER JUST ONE SESSION

UNLOCK BRIGHTER, HEALTHIER SKIN TODAY

Patients can further enhance their HydraFacial Syndeo experience with our upgrade menu, designed to further improve and personalise your treatment. Whether you’re prepping for a special occasion or simply indulging yourself, our upgrades will refine and boost your results.

We offer significant discounts on 6 and 12-month course packages for both Deluxe and Platinum HydraFacial treatments to keep your skin healthy, refreshed and radiant. By choosing our 12-month Platinum package, you’ll become a Platinum VIP member and enjoy additional discounts throughout your course.

HydraFacial Syndeo is suitable for all skin types and addresses a range of skin concerns. We invite you to visit our clinic for a free skin consultation with Rachael or Gemma. n

To book your HydraFacial Syndeo treatment, scan the QR code, email: info@rejuvamed.co.uk or call us on 01200 538668.

£20 off your first HydraFacial at RejuvaMed Quote: Live20 until 31st December

rejuvamed.co.uk SPECIAL HYDRAFACIAL OFFER!

RejuvaMed Health & Wellness Holmes Cottage Woone Lane, Clitheroe BB7 1BG 01200 538668

• INSECURITY AND LOW SELF-ESTEEM: By diminishing others, they seek to elevate themselves or alleviate their own feelings of inadequacy and inferiority.

• MANIPULATION AND EXPLOITATION: Gaslighting can be a tool for manipulation, used to exploit someone for personal gain, whether in a personal relationship, at work or in other settings.

• LEARNED BEHAVIOUR: Some people gaslight because they have been exposed

MIND MATTERS

Therapeutic coach Lynn Scholes explains gaslighting, the confusion it causes and how a victim can eventually find clarity

Gaslighting is the most insidious form of manipulation used to destroy a person’s confidence and self-esteem in order to gain greater control. The psychological implications can range from that of feeling confused to a person genuinely believing that they losing their mind. I recently worked with a client who, following two years of this type of abuse, was questioning if she maybe had a brain tumour. She was so afraid this was true that she couldn’t face going to the doctor and getting a diagnosis. The anxiety this fear was causing brought her to me.

Gaslighting is a psychological manipulation technique that seeks to make a person doubt their own perceptions, memories or understanding of reality. The term originates from the 1938 play. ‘Gas Light’, where a husband manipulates his wife into believing she is going insane by dimming the gas lights and denying that the light has changed when she points it out.

This form of manipulation can occur in various types of relationships, including romantic partnerships, friendships, family dynamics and even in workplace settings. The process of gaslighting often involves the gaslighter denying facts, dismissing the victim’s feelings or twisting information to confuse and destabilise the victim. Over time, the victim may begin to question their own judgment.

Gaslighting can manifest in several ways –the gaslighter may lie about past events, insist the victim is misremembering or minimise their feelings and experiences. They might also use projection, accusing the victim of being manipulative or deceitful, which can further confuse and deflect attention from the gaslighter’s own behaviour.

There is no one reason why a perpetrator chooses to gaslight but these include:

• CONTROL AND POWER: The primary motive is often to gain control over another person. This can be seen in abusive relationships where the abuser wants to maintain power.

• AVOIDING ACCOUNTABILITY:

Gaslighting is also used to deflect blame and avoid responsibility. By convincing the victim that their concerns are unfounded or exaggerated, the gaslighter can evade consequences for their behaviour, whether it’s infidelity, dishonesty, or other harmful actions.

SELF-PROTECTION: By invalidating someone else’s perspective, they can maintain a facade of being in the right or being morally superior.

to similar behaviour in their past, such as in their family. They may have learnt that this is a way to deal with conflicts or assert control.

The impact of gaslighting can be severe. Victims may experience anxiety, depression and a sense of isolation as they feel increasingly disconnected. They may also struggle with trusting their own thoughts, leading to a cycle of dependency on the gaslighter for validation. In some cases, the effects can be long-lasting, even after the gaslighting has ended, as the victim may continue to grapple with self-doubt.

Recognising gaslighting is the first step towards addressing it. Some signs that one might be a victim of gaslighting include frequently questioning one’s own memory, feeling confused about what is true or false and feeling like one is walking on eggshells around the gaslighter. It is also common for victims to feel a sense of dread when discussing certain topics, as they anticipate the gaslighter’s dismissive or hostile reaction. Ultimately, overcoming gaslighting involves reclaiming one’s sense of reality and self-worth. If you believe you may be a victim, reach out to trusted family or friends. If like many victims of gaslighting you have been isolated from close relationships, get professional help. In the next issue I will talk about the tactics employed by perpetrators and steps you can take to recover. n

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

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

PEARL OF THE INDIAN OCEAN

After a South African safari, Dan Hyams spends an unforgettable summer in Mauritius, where a romantic, sunrise proposal was the highlight of his trip

Mauritius, an island paradise in the Indian Ocean, is known as a dream destination for honeymooners, families and adventurers. My family and I spent summer here, soaking in its white-sand beaches, vibrant culture and natural beauty. We stayed at three stunning resorts: Lagoon Attitude, Constance Belle Mare Plage and

LUX* Belle Mare, each offering its own unique charm.

LAGOON ATTITUDE:

ECO-FRIENDLY RELAXATION

We started our journey at Lagoon Attitude, a peaceful adults-only resort on the north coast. Its laid-back atmosphere and commitment to sustainability were

immediately noticeable. The resort’s lush gardens and pristine lagoon created a tranquil environment, perfect for relaxation.

Lagoon Attitude’s eco-focus includes banning single-use plastics and offering upcycling workshops at its Marine Discovery Centre. The highlight of our stay was the Otentik Dinner, where we dined with Manuela, a local, learning about her life in Mauritius. Beyond the resort’s sustainability efforts, there were plenty of activities, including kayaking, padel tennis and diving, allowing us to explore the island’s marine life while being mindful of the environment.

CONSTANCE BELLE MARE

PLAGE: WINE LOVER’S PARADISE

Next, we spent two luxurious nights at Constance Belle Mare Plage, a resort situated on one of Mauritius’ most stunning beaches. From the moment we arrived, the resort radiated elegance. Dining at Constance was

an exceptional experience, starting with La Citronnelle, a buffet restaurant offering world-class cuisine. However, it was The Blue Penny Cellar, with its collection of over 40,000 wines, that truly stole the show. For foodies and wine lovers, this intimate dining space is unforgettable, often featuring Michelin-starred chefs.

La Spiaggia, a beachfront restaurant lit by lanterns, offered another memorable meal, blending romance with gourmet dishes.

Constance Belle Mare Plage doesn’t just excel in food – it’s also a haven for active guests. Two championship golf courses, hosting international tournaments, make it a top destination for golf lovers. Watersports enthusiasts can indulge in windsurfing, diving or simply lounging by the crystalclear waters of Belle Mare beach.

While the resort offers countless luxurious activities, my most cherished moment came

during a life-changing event – proposing to my girlfriend. With help from the incredible management team, I planned a sunrise proposal on a secluded beach swing. The beach, bathed in soft morning light, with the waves gently lapping the shore, made for the perfect, intimate setting. It was a magical experience, thanks to the attentive and thoughtful staff who made every detail perfect.

LUX* BELLE MARE: A CHIC FINALE

We concluded our stay at LUX* Belle Mare, a resort known for its stylish design and vibrant atmosphere. With a sprawling pool and chic beachside dining, it exuded energy and elegance. Families are well catered for here, with an excellent kids’ club and a homemade ice cream parlour that delighted both young and old alike. Royce Kitchen, which serves street food from a vintage Rolls Royce, added a playful touch to the dining scene.

The resort offers numerous activities, from yoga on the beach to horse riding along the shore. Duck Laundry, a restaurant specialising in Asian cuisine, was a culinary highlight. LUX* Belle Mare’s lively yet relaxed ambience was the perfect end to our stay in Mauritius, offering a mix of chic luxury and laid-back fun.

EXPLORING THE ISLAND’S NATURAL BEAUTY

Beyond the resorts, Mauritius is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural experiences. One of our favourite days was spent exploring the island’s ‘wild south’. We visited the Rhumerie de Chamarel, a working rum distillery, where we learned about the rum-making process and enjoyed tastings of their finest spirits. From there, we ventured to Chamarel’s famous sevencoloured earths, a stunning natural formation of vibrant, multi-coloured dunes. Nearby, the Chamarel waterfall, plunging 100 meters,

created a dramatic and awe-inspiring scene, surrounded by lush greenery.

For a truly extraordinary experience, visitors can take a helicopter ride to witness the world’s only underwater waterfall, seeing this phenomenon from above is an unforgettable way to appreciate the island’s natural wonders.

DISCOVERING PORT LOUIS

No visit to Mauritius is complete without exploring its bustling capital, Port Louis. The Central Market bursts with energy, filled with the aromas of street food and the vibrant colours of spices, fresh produce, and local crafts. Strolling through the market is a sensory immersion into Mauritian life. The city is also home to historical landmarks, including colonial buildings and the Champ de Mars, the oldest racecourse in the southern hemisphere, offering a glimpse into the island’s rich history.

A DESTINATION FOR EVERY TRAVELLER

Mauritius truly has something for everyone. For couples, it’s a romantic paradise with intimate beachside dinners and luxurious spa treatments. Families will find a variety of activities, from watersports to kids’ clubs, ensuring there’s something for all ages. Adventure seekers can hike through national parks, discover waterfalls or dive into coral reefs teeming with marine life.

Whether you’re looking for a honeymoon destination, a family holiday or an adventurous escape, Mauritius promises unforgettable experiences. Our summer on this beautiful island was filled with moments of beauty, relaxation and joy. From my sunrise proposal at Constance Belle Mare Plage to exploring the wild southern coast, Mauritius was the perfect destination, and I look forward to returning one day. n

travelcounsellors.co.uk/dan.hyams

Discover gifts galore at Bowland Food Hall, just perfect for all the foodies amongst you. You’ll find a treasure trove of delicious treats perfect for every taste and every stocking!

Give the gift of choice with Bowland Food Hall and our James’ Places gift vouchers, available both online and in-store, making it easier than ever to spoil your loved ones.

Open 7 days, pop in to choose the perfect gift

IS IT TIME FOR

A LOCAL REFERENDUM?

Gail Bailey speaks to Ribble Valley Council Leader Stephen Atkinson about his determination to secure the independence of the council

While 2024 sees Ribble Valley Borough Council celebrate 50 years since its incorporation, Council Leader Stephen Atkinson leads a debate in which he hopes to continue to secure its independence as the threat of devolution continues to loom: “There are huge benefits to having our own borough council in the Ribble Valley,” he says.

“It has allowed us to develop our enviable track record of sound finance with no public debt, the lowest tax in the county and the only borough in the county having a weekly waste collection, with no charges for green waste. Alongside this we are currently planning ambitious capital projects to enhance the quality of life for Ribble Valley residents even further.”

Currently Lancashire has a two-tiered local government which includes the upper tier County Council, which is responsible for services that cover the whole county such as social care, education and transport and then a body of smaller District Councils which oversee planning applications, environmental health, bin collections and

leisure facilities.

Devolution would mean the current 11 District Councils potentially being abolished to create one single-tier authority to include a mayor, such as Greater Manchester, or up to three tiers with Ribble Valley possibly being run from Blackburn: “We are fundamentally opposed to such a mayor and local government reorganisation,” Cllr Atkinson explains.

IDENTITY

AND OUR SENSE OF COMMUNITY IN THE RIBBLE VALLEY IS NOW AT THE VERY CORE OF THIS POLITICAL DEBATE

“We can see the benefit of these in metropolitan areas, but believe that Lancashire is so diverse and unique that the county and district model, which has served it well since the 1970s, is best placed to continue to do so. Some reports have suggested that the government wants the mayors to sit on a Council of the Regions, which is reminiscent of the Norman era when the barons had ultimate power – surely moving to this system would be a retrograde action.”

Whilst ‘devolution’ is the term used to describe the process of transferring powers and funding from the central national government to local government, Councillor Atkinson highlights the importance of smaller District Councils which ensure that decisions are made closer to the local people, communities and the businesses they affect.

“A mayor would struggle to represent the whole of Lancashire given its diversity and blend of urban and rural communities – and one of our real concerns is that investment decisions may be made in the more densely populated areas,” he adds.

“Identity and our sense of community in the Ribble Valley is now at the very core of this political debate and our plan is to ensure residents do not have decisions forced upon them,” Cllr Atkinson says.

“A resolution committing to the calling of a referendum in the Ribble Valley in the event of any proposed local government reorganisation, was approved by a majority at a specially convened council meeting and we hope to have this approved should it be needed to ensure the residents of the Ribble Valley have their say in their future.” n

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CLEARING OUT EMOTIONAL STRESS

It’s so easy to accumulate clutter – but not so easy to part with it. Rebecca Hay meets just the right person to help you on the right track to having a A Tidy Mind

Modern living can be emotionally draining. Clearing out all that clutter can be good for the soul. For some people though, just the thought of it can be exhausting.

Rachel Cordingley understands the battles faced by people who want to bring more order to their lives, but struggle to let go.

As a child, Rachel loved nothing more

than making sure her side of the family playroom was kept clean, so much so that she placed a skipping rope as a dividing line to keep her sister’s mess contained away from her own.

MOST HOARDERS ARE TRAUMA RELATED AND THEY FIND MAKING DECISIONS ABOUT REMOVING THINGS THEY HAVE COLLECTED, USUALLY OVER MANY YEARS, EMOTIONALLY EXHAUSTING

Her zest for order has followed Rachel throughout her life. In 2018 she joined A Tidy Mind and in 2022, she secured a franchise with the firm. She is the longest serving organiser of the community.

Today, Rachel has on board six other female professional organisers across West and North Yorkshire, Pendle and Clitheroe and works with a wide range of people.

Many of her clients are from the neuro diverse community and Rachel loves the challenge.

“Most hoarders are trauma related and

they find making decisions about removing things they have collected, usually over many years, emotionally exhausting,” she said.

“We are there to take the emotion out of the decision and help people on the right journey.”

“A Tidy Mind is not a house clearance service or therapy, instead we work gently, assess the situation and needs of the person and then together decide what is to go,” she added.

Everyone’s situation is different, from families dealing with empty nesters, to more intense projects like working with charities such as Mind to create new safe places.

Whatever the reason, Rachel and her team have levels of help to meet everyone’s requirements.

With bronze, silver and gold packages available, ranging from £222 to £792 for different levels of service, Rachel also offers an hourly rate to allow for flexibility.

Everyone’s different needs are looked at and then the one to one work starts in earnest.

Once a decision is made as to what to declutter, the team take away the items and either recycle or give to charities.

This Rachel says, often helps people come to terms with giving precious things up as they feel they are giving back and helping save the planet.

As well as decluttering, Rachel can help with all aspects of life, from helping you plan your finances to making sure you get the most out of your time.

And for Rachel, it makes her work even more worthwhile.

Clearly something she loves to do, for Rachel the sense of satisfaction is in helping someone get their life back together in a kind and gentle way. n

OPEN MORNING

OPEN MORNING

Friday 11th October

Friday 11th October

9am - 12noon

9am - 12noon

Unable to attend our Open Morning?

Unable to attend our Open Morning?

Unable to attend our Open Morning?

Book a private tour with the Headteacher at a time to suit you.

Book a private tour with the Headteacher at a time to suit you.

Book a private tour with Headteacher at a time you.

We encourage our children to 'Aim High' and we prepare them academically, socially, physically and emotionally for their Grammar, Independent or State Secondary School of choice. Last year, 100% of children who applied were accepted by their chosen Grammar School.

We encourage our children to 'Aim High' and we prepare them academically, socially, physically and emotionally for their Grammar, Independent or State Secondary School of choice. Last year, 100% of children who applied were accepted by their chosen Grammar School.

We encourage our to High' and prepare academically, physically and for their Independent State Secondary School choice. Last year, 100% of children who applied were accepted by chosen Grammar School.

We look forward to meeting you!

We look forward to meeting you!

01772 709624 look forward to meeting 01772 709624

01772 709624

HISTORY OF HALLOWEEN

October is the month that we celebrate Halloween – a festival marked by spooky costumes, trick-or-treating and eerie decorations

Though commonly associated with American culture, Halloween has its origins in ancient Celtic traditions from the British Isles. The modern celebration of Halloween is a mixture of ancient rituals, Christian traditions and popular culture. Understanding its British history provides insight into the origins of many of the traditions still observed, not only in the UK but around the world.

CELTIC ROOTS OF HALLOWEEN: SAMHAIN

The roots of Halloween lie in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain (pronounced ‘Sow-in’), which dates back over 2,000 years. Samhain marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter, often referred to as the ‘darker half’ of the year.

The Celts, who lived primarily in what is now Ireland, Scotland, Wales and parts of England, believed that the boundary between the world of the living and the dead became thin on the night of 31st October which allowed spirits, both benign and malevolent, to cross over into the living world.

During Samhain, Celts would light bonfires to ward off evil spirits and wear animal skins and masks to disguise themselves from wandering souls. These customs formed the basis for many modern Halloween traditions, such as wearing costumes and lighting lanterns, originally through fear of malevolent spirits. The bonfires were also symbolic of warmth and safety, an attempt to stave off the looming winter darkness.

ROMAN AND CHRISTIAN INFLUENCES

The Roman Empire, which conquered much of the Celtic lands by the first century AD, brought with it its own set of traditions.

Two Roman festivals, Feralia (which commemorated the dead) and Pomona (which celebrated the goddess of fruit and trees), were gradually incorporated into the Celtic festival of Samhain. Pomona’s symbol was the apple, which may have contributed to the tradition of apple bobbing, a popular Halloween game today.

With the spread of Christianity in the British Isles, the church sought to replace pagan festivals with Christian holidays.

In the 8th century, Pope Gregory III moved the Christian feast of All Saints’ Day to 1st November, making 31st October the eve of this holy day, known as All Hallows’ Eve, which eventually became Halloween. All Saints’ Day honoured Christian saints and martyrs, while All Souls’ Day on 2nd November was dedicated to praying for the souls of the deceased. The celebration of All Hallows’ Eve incorporated many Samhain customs but within a Christian framework, shaping the Halloween we know today.

EARLY HALLOWEEN TRADITIONS

During the medieval period, Halloween customs in Britain began to take on a distinct form. Souling became a popular tradition in which the poor would go door to door, offering prayers for the dead in exchange for food, especially soul cakes. This custom of begging for soul cakes is thought to be an early precursor to modernday trick-or-treating. As people visited homes, they would carry lanterns made from hollowed-out turnips, which were sometimes carved with grotesque faces to ward off evil spirits, a practice that predated the use of pumpkins in America.

In some areas of Britain, particularly Scotland and Ireland, guising was a common practice. Guisers would dress in costumes and go from house to house, performing songs, poems or tricks in exchange for food or money. Guising likely evolved from the ancient tradition of wearing disguises to confuse spirits on Samhain. Today’s Halloween costumes are a direct descendant of this practice, though modern interpretations range from the scary to the silly.

DECLINE AND REVIVAL OF HALLOWEEN

Halloween traditions in Britain started to decline after the Reformation in the 16th century, as Protestantism spread and the focus on praying for the dead fell out of favour. However, Halloween customs survived in certain rural areas, particularly in Scotland and Ireland, where Celtic traditions remained strong. By the 19th century, as Irish and Scottish immigrants began to settle in America, they brought their Halloween customs with them. Over time, these traditions merged with other cultural practices in the US, leading to the creation of a more commercialised and widespread celebration of Halloween.

By the mid-20th century, Halloween had become a popular holiday in America, and the Americanised version spread to Britain. The influence of American pop culture, especially through television, movies and marketing, contributed to the revival of Halloween celebrations in the UK and modern Halloween in Britain is now characterised by costume parties, haunted house attractions and trick-ortreating, which had been largely forgotten until their reintroduction from across the Atlantic.

MODERN FESTIVITIES

Today, Halloween in the UK is a blend of ancient Celtic customs and modern Americanised traditions. Trick-or-treating, inspired by both souling and guising, has become popular among children, though it is a relatively recent development in Britain, gaining widespread popularity in the late 20th century. Costume parties are also a common feature of Halloween celebrations, and people often dress as witches, ghosts, skeletons, or popular fictional characters.

In addition to costumes and trickor-treating, Halloween in the UK often includes apple bobbing, haunted attractions and spooky storytelling, evoking the eerie atmosphere of Samhain’s thin veil between the worlds of the living and the dead. n

CRAFTED FOR MORE

Introducing Ribble’s new All-road Ti – a flawless titanium bike that fuses 3D print technology with handcrafted techniques

Ribble Cycles has a longstanding heritage in bike building and innovative British design. Synonymous with hand-crafted masterpieces, the brand has just launched the new Allroad Ti – a next generation titanium road bike that flawlessly fuses innovative 3D printed technology with traditional handcrafted techniques. The result is a bike that is ‘crafted for more’ and exudes both style and substance in abundance.

Designed to maximise and enhance the ride qualities of titanium – the Allroad Ti has endurance-focused geometry to deliver uncompromising performance, speed and versatility.

WHY TI?

Titanium has always been heralded as the ultimate frame material in cycling due to its special properties which are:

DESIGNED TO MAXIMISE AND ENHANCE THE RIDE QUALITIES OF TITANIUM

Durability – An exceptionally high fatigueto-strength ratio means that a properly engineered titanium frame can last a lifetime –literally.

Weight – Titanium is a lighter option compared to steel as steel tubing needs to be thicker, adding unwanted weight. Therefore, a titanium frame will be comparably lighter than an equivalent steel model.

Strength – The strength-to-weight density of titanium is higher than any other metallic element.

Compliance – Titanium has great vibration damping properties, making for a smoother ride over uneven surfaces.

Corrosion-resistance – It’s not subject to the same oxidisation that can afflict steel bikes (rust).

Stiffness – A well-built titanium frame is extremely stiff, improving power transfer and resulting in better pedalling efficiency. They are extremely robust with non-corrosive properties – delivering a timeless quality. A Ti bike is more of a long-term investment and can truly be your lifetime riding companion. n

Individually crafted, each frame is unique and retains subtle traces of the maker’s marks. Desirable design features include a headtube and seat-tube clusters formed via 3D printing to create unique profiles, optimised for aerodynamic efficiencies, a modern sleek form, smooth hand-polished welds with laser etched logos and a debossed head badge combined with a wider profile carbon fork. Finished in metallic black gloss and brushed metal logos to further enhance the design, the Allroad Ti will deliver the ride of your life. ribblecycles.co.uk

Discover more about the new Ribble Allroad Ti online or in-store.

CHARITY FOCUS

Live Ribble Valley takes a look at ongoing fundraising projects that see thousands of pounds donated to good causes

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

XMAS TRACTOR RUN

Clitheroe Young Farmers Club (CYF) is appealing for support for their annual Charity Christmas Tractor Run, one of the biggest events of its kind in the North West, running for the sixth year! Last year, over 150 tractors participated raising more than £10,000 for Clitheroe YFC and Sepsis UK. This year’s event will be held on Sunday 22nd December, with prizes for best-dressed tractors! CYF would greatly appreciate any contributions individuals or businesses can make, whether it’s a financial donation, products or services. Your support will help to continue this wonderful tradition and raise funds for the community. Please get in touch to discuss how CYF can recognise your support at the event.

BOWLAND LECTURE

Browsholme Hall’s Tithe Barn will be the setting for an early autumn lecture delivered by Neil Whalley on the evening of Tuesday 1st October. In his talk, the Celtic History of the North West, Neil will trace the history of the Celts from their European origins to their eventual disappearance, exploring their language, religion, literature, legends and looking at what they left behind.

Mike Pugh, Chairman of Champion Bowland, will introduce the lecture, which aims to raise funds for both Champion Bowland and another local charity, Slaidburn Archive. The evening will take place in the atmospheric surroundings of the Tithe Barn at Browsholme Hall, thanks to the generosity of the Parker family.

The lecture will begin at 7.30pm, with a pay bar available from 7pm. Admission is £5 and places need to be booked in advance by emailing: sandra.silk@lancashire.gov.uk, or calling 07973 923142.

VOLUNTEERING LEAVE

Marsden Building Society has launched a new Volunteering Leave scheme to help support local communities.

The Society’s employees are now entitled to take up to two days of paid leave per year to volunteer for causes close to their hearts. To launch the new community initiative, 14 colleagues from Marsden Building Society rolled up their sleeves and teamed up with Ribble Rivers Trust to tackle the overgrowth that was encroaching on the pathways at Primrose Lodge in Clitheroe.

Rob Pheasey, Chief Executive at Marsden Building Society, commented: “Leaving a lasting and positive impression on the communities we serve is a core part of our values, which is why we’re excited to launch our new volunteering policy. The team day at Primrose Lodge was the perfect way to get the ball rolling. Everyone enjoyed not only giving back to our community, but also getting to know colleagues from different departments across the business.”

IN THE SADDLE

Chipping Pony Club members recently enjoyed three days of fun, competing in the National Championships, writes by Megan Conlon.

Photography: Top Shots Photography

Following qualifications at the Area competitions against 19 local branches, five Chipping branch members loaded up the horse boxes and set off to Warwickshire for the JCB Pony Club National Championships!

On the first day, after the long journey, we made the temporary stables as cosy as possible for our horses and let them settle with hay and water while we checked out the facilities. The site of the championships in Offchurch Bury is unlike any other competition at Pony Club. From multiple arenas, to food stalls, shops and a dancing area, there is something for every time of day, even if you’re not competing. There are buggies whizzing up and down the drive, taking people between the stables and the main area, and the campsite stretches all the way up a hill, accommodating all 19 UK areas of the Pony Club. Once our horses

were sorted, we set up camp together and marched on down to the local pub for a well-deserved meal.

IT WAS AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE AND A STELLAR OPPORTUNITY TO REPRESENT OUR CLUB AT NATIONAL LEVEL

We were up with the sun the next day and readied horses and riders for the first of our competitions, the 90cm showjumping. There was a warm-up class in the morning, where Lucy was in the ribbons in seventh place! This class allowed our team to fully switch on before turning to the very tough jumps and lines of the main 90cm show jumping competition. Having walked the course together and sharing each other’s expertise, our riders tackled the course with determination

against 66 other teams and finished on a total of 12 faults after two rounds, with Kaitlin going into the jump off! A huge well done to Amy, Oliver, Kaitlin and Lucy. The next day was jam-packed and with Oliver heading home to get his A level results, the show jumping team was left with only three members to tackle the metre class. Lucy excelled in both rounds, just knocking the final pole to finish on a nonetheless impressive four faults. With the classes

almost overlapping, Kaitlin and myself also competed in the individual Intermediate Dressage competition, riding a very tricky test in a 60m x 20m arena for the first time. We weren’t in the ribbons this time, but the experience was invaluable. That night, we celebrated our successes at the themed party which was being held in the main area, complete with a DJ and disco lights!

The championships are something which every Pony Club member ought to aim for.

We had three days and nights of true Pony Club camaraderie and fun as well as the competitions. It was, as it always is, an unforgettable experience and a stellar opportunity to represent our club at national level. Time to get training for next year! 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

But he’s the best. He’s the highest ever rated racehorse, being an unbeaten 10-times Group 1 winner. In fact, if you decided to send your mare to Frankel (who stands at Banstead Manor Stud in Newmarket) in 2013, the first year after his retirement, it would cost £125,000 as he was an unproven stallion at that time. It would have been an excellent investment as since then he has sired 34 Group 1 winners, including 10 Classic winners and holds the distinction of siring 100 Group Winners in a record time of 3144 days, ahead of Danehill, Galileo and Dubawi.

It’s not just all about Frankel’s yearlings as thousands of horses will be going through the sales ring over the next few months and everyone is looking for the next superstar. I’m fascinated by the ‘pin hookers’ – these are usually knowledgeable horsemen, who buy a yearling at the sales, keep them for a few months, during which they are ridden for the first time, before being sent back to the Breeze Up Sale in the spring. Rather than just walking around a sales ring, the two-year-olds (as they are then) gallop for two furlongs at

THE DREAM STARTS HERE…

Thousands of horses will be going through the sales at this time of year – and everyone is looking for the next superstar, writes Jason Fildes

As well as top class racing in Britain, Ireland and France, this time of year also sees the sales season in all those countries too.

Trainers, bloodstock agents, new owners, existing owners (and anyone else!) who is interested, are to be found at Tattersalls in Newmarket, Goffs at Doncaster, the Orby Sales in Ireland or Arqana Yearling Sales in France.

Beautifully bred youngsters from all the major stud farms are on the market. These yearlings are usually only about 18 months old, having been born in the first half of 2023, and they are the pride and joy of breeders, both big and small.

Usually the mares live at ‘home’ and are sent to be covered by a certain stallion. The top stallions are past champions and much sought-after – and expensive! Having your mare covered by Frankel, for instance, will cost a cool £350,000 payable on the birth of the foal. If you can imagine that Frankel will

sire perhaps 300 foals in a single year, you can see that it’s an amazing business.

the Breeze Ups so the buyers are able to see their prospective purchases at full speed. The pin hookers can make a quick turn on their investment (or it can easily go the other way) but there’s no shortage of people willing to try!

I like having the trainer around when buying horses as he or she will be the key individual in that horse’s career. I also encourage them to keep a leg (25 per cent) in any new purchase so they have a vested interest in their future.

Let’s see how we get on over the next few weeks and I’ll give a first update on the yearlings we have bought in the next edition of LRV! n

LEEDS AND LIVERPOOL CANAL – OUR

HERITAGE AND OUR FUTURE

Walking the towpath from Barnoldswick to Skipton Ben Hopkins meets a few of the characters who live, work and enjoy their leisure time on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal

“It’s who we are, where we come from,” says Roland Johnson, a retired boat engineer and ex Royal Marine now enjoying life as a constant cruiser on the Leeds and Liverpool. “Lose this and we lose an important part of our heritage.”

Moored up on the edge of Barnoldswick with his wife Vicky, two dogs and a saxophone for company it’s a life many would envy. It’s also a lifestyle in jeopardy.

“These locks were built fantastically, nobody can argue with that,” says Roland with the eye of an engineer. “But with government funding coming to an end there’s a real danger large sections will be shut down.”

The idea of losing this 250-year-old masterpiece of engineering may seem far-fetched to many. But with a recent government announcement to reduce

funding for Canal & River Trust (CRT) by £300 million from 2027, or almost half of what it is today, the prospect of seeing large sections of the nation’s canal system shut down through lack of maintenance has become a real possibility.

IT’S

LIKE BEING A SNAIL. YOU TAKE YOUR HOME WITH YOU WHEREVER YOU GO

If allowed to happen it would mean a hammer blow for tourism, biodiversity and our heritage, not only locally but nationwide. According to independently verified research, canals support 80,000 jobs nationwide and contribute £1.5 billion annually to the economy. Like Malham Cove and Bolton Abbey they act as a magnet for tourism into the Dales, boosting the economy and enriching biodiversity.

The view across the Pennines from the deck of Roland’s barge is one to lift the spirits even when the April mist is hanging low. From here, Roland and Vicky plan to journey west then south towards the midlands, cruising the heartlands of the industrial revolution while living as close to nature as possible in 21st century Britain. “It’s like being a snail”, says Vicky. “You take your home with you wherever you go.”

Continuing my walk towards Skipton I pass groups of trekkers and cyclists, a lone fisherman and a couple of canoeists before meeting Hazel, one of the nation’s thousands of canal volunteers. Like a lot of volunteers, she’s a retiree with bucket loads of energy. “I do this because it gets me out of the house,” she says while separating weeds from industrial waste. “There’s always someone to talk to on the canals, even on a day like this.”

Her concern is the impact potential closures will have on nature. It’s a concern echoed by Roland and Vicky who lived on their boat during lockdown. “The locks were only closed for about four months, but by the end of those four months the weeds were horrendous,” Vicky recalls.

MAINTAINING

AND KEEPING ALL OF OUR 2,000-MILE NETWORK OF CANALS OPEN IS GOING TO BE A HUGE CHALLENGE IN THE COMING YEARS

“If they’re shut down for longer a blanket of bad weeds will block out the light, starve the canal of oxygen and kill the fish. If that happens the herons and all manner of birdlife will disappear.”

By midday the mist has cleared and there’s a rare burst of sun, lifting the spirits of boaters working the locks between Barnoldswick and Gargrave.

Maintaining and keeping all of our 2,000mile network of canals open is going to be a huge challenge in the coming years. In the opinion of Ian Clarke, owner of Skipton’s Pennine Cruisers boat hires, it’s a challenge that won’t be fixed by money alone.

“Personally, I feel until canal funding is spent more wisely an increase in funding

will make matters worse. CRT is top heavy with management. What we need are more bodies on the ground, more skilled engineers with the knowledge of maintaining the canals in a traditional manner. Until this is rectified and the use of preferred contractors is reduced completely extra money will be spent with no gain in canal standards.”

For Seán McGinley, CRT Director for Yorkshire and North East, the challenge is ongoing.

“The Trust has been taking action for several years to prepare for the possibility of a challenging financial future, to ensure that our incredible waterways in Yorkshire and across the nation remain open and available to be used by the public,” he said.

By the time I make Skipton it’s lateafternoon and the sun is still playing musical chairs with the clouds. Day trippers are returning their boats and the popular Boathouse Bar is filling up with people enjoying early evening drinks next to the canal basin. For anyone out there tempted to set out on their first canal cruise it’s the perfect spot to sit back, enjoy a pint and raise a toast to this masterpiece of British engineering. One that deserves to be kept open.

Both for our sake, and for generations to come. n

ESTATE LIFE

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

Welcome to our October article, a time of year when we have loads of fun events going on the estate. Starting with 5th October, we will be opening our pumpkin patch and Halloween Hunt outside Hindelinis. Come and pumpkin carve and follow our scary trail around the estate.

On Saturday 2nd November the estate is excited to host our annual bonfire and fireworks

evening. Experience the north’s largest bonfire, a breathtaking firework display from the amazing Optimum fireworks, mouth-watering food and drink from Hindelinis and a lively DJ afterparty complete with sax and percussion. Don’t miss out on our sparkler area, mesmerising fire performers, bubble machine and glitter station. New for this year is a VIP area. Skip the queues and secure your VIP area ticket featuring private VIP parking, prime stage views, gazebo, a VIP pay bar and wood-fired pizzas.

Meanwhile initial discussions are ongoing with Ribble Valley Borough Council regarding the transformation of the estate with the focus being the Grade I mansion house. It’s an extremely

exciting chapter for Amber and I and we are thrilled to have partnered up with Rural Solutions

from Skipton to help us remaster the use of the estate as a whole and not bit by bit. They are the UK’s leading authority on whole estate plans and recently completed a 150-page document for Chatsworth for the Duke and

HINDELINIS IS A HIVE OF ACTIVITY

AS WE SWITCH TO OUR WINTER MENU AS WELL AS LAUNCHING OUR AUTUMNAL AFTERNOON TEA, WHICH WILL BE A MOUNTAIN OF SEASONAL DELIGHTS!

Duchess of Devonshire. Our vision is for the next 10, 25 and 50 years as the decisions made now, if carefully considered should benefit the estate for that period and much longer. We look forward to sharing our ideas and plans with you in due course and welcoming feedback.

Have you ever considered owning a lodge on Gisburne Park Estate? Our bespoke homes start at around £250,000 and come from Lissett Lodges, probably the best manufacturer in the UK. We currently have one show home available to view which is a three-bedroom lodge with a large decking area facing west. If you are interested in a custom-built home on Gisburne Park Estate please contact us.

Hindelinis is a hive of activity as we switch to our winter menu as well as launching our autumnal afternoon tea which will be a mountain of seasonal delights! All new menus, timings of events and tickets will be posted on our socials and website so for further information please check in online.

Amber and I look forward to hearing from you or seeing you about the estate. n

Gisburne Park Estate

Mill Lane, Gisburn BB7 4LP 01200 415300

gisburneparkestate.co.uk

@hindelinis

@ribblesdalepark

@gisburneparkestate

EDUCATION NEWS

BESTSELLING AUTHOR

Westholme Prep R and Prep 1 children welcomed children’s author Kes Gray and illustrator Jim Field to talk about their new book, Oi Dinosaurs! Organised through independent coffee, book and gift shop, Book, Bean and Ice Cream in Kirkham, students enjoyed listening to readings of Oi Dinosaurs! and Oi Aardvark! from the Oi Frog! series and were also lucky enough to have a frog drawing masterclass from the book’s illustrator.

OUTSTANDING RESULTS

Oakhill School is delighted with the outstanding GCSE results of students at every level. With small class sizes and excellent teaching, in half of the examinations taken, students have achieved at least one grade above what they might have achieved based on their ability levels alone. In a quarter of cases, the students have particular reason to celebrate having received GCSE results which are two, three and even four grades above what they might have achieved. Principal Jane Buttery said: “Our value added results are what make us really proud as they show how every student at every level can be helped to reach their potential.”

NEW 4G PITCH

Clarets Manager Scott Parker has said Burnley College’s new football facilities will play a vital role in shaping the next generation of sportspeople. The former England Captain and Manager of Chelsea and Fulham took time out of his schedule to cut the ribbon on the college’s brand new 4G pitch at its £115 million town-centre campus. The pitch is available for use by the public as well as professional teams and is at the cutting-edge of artificial turf technology.

INSPIRATIONAL VISIT

Westholme School recently hosted a delightful and inspiring event featuring bestselling author Adam Kay and his talented collaborator Henry Paker, a fellow comedian, writer and cartoonist. The creative duo visited the Pleasington school to promote their latest book, Dexter Procter: The 10 Year Old Doctor. Pupils from Westholme and other local schools attended the event in the school’s Croston Theatre. Paul Taylor, Principal at Westholme School, said: “Adam and Henry’s visit brought great joy to our young audience who were captivated throughout.”

CO-CURRICULAR FAIR

Westholme School held their annual co-curricular fair, giving students the opportunity to view the fantastic range of clubs, activities and societies that are available to them during their time at senior school. With over 80 clubs on offer, covering all areas of the curriculum from sport, creative arts, science, maths and engineering and so much more, the co-curricular programme is a great way for students to acquire 21st century skills, have fun and make friends!

SIXTH FORM SUCCESS

Stonyhurst’s Class of 2024 attained an average of 145 UCAS points, equivalent to three A grades at A level, reflecting the high academic standards upheld by the Sixth Form. Stonyhurst’s graduates now embark on exciting journeys to prestigious universities across the globe. Destinations include Cambridge, St Andrews, Exeter, Hamilton College (New York), University of Notre Dame (US), King’s College London, University College London, IE Madrid (Spain), Queen’s Belfast, University of Sydney, UC San Diego (USA), University of St Gallen (Switzerland), Luiss (Italy) and Carnegie Mellon (US).

OPEN EVENINGS

October

Thurs 3

Tues 29

November

Tues 26 2025 February

Tues 11

5:30pm - 8:30pm

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS…

Stonyhurst has returned to its original 1946 structure, now welcoming Year 7 and 8 pupils as part of the College. This change marks the creation of Aloysius House, offering younger pupils the best of both worlds in their educational journey

These are exciting times for Stonyhurst College which, after the summer break, has incorporated Year 7 and Year 8 into the College campus.

The move from the Prep School, St Mary’s Hall, for the 11 and 12-year-olds has been a natural transition and one that has been well received by parents, staff and of course, the pupils themselves who have direct access to all the wonderful, on-site facilities along with specialist teaching in every subject.

Part of a £400,000 investment project at Stonyhurst, Aloysius House, a newly created middle school for Years 7 and 8, is located in the east wing of the College and offers pupils the perfect introduction to the school and the wider College experience.

Bringing Stonyhurst in line with other educational settings, the College is now dedicated to pupils aged 11 to 18 while St Mary’s Hall, where Years 7 and 8 were previously based, is now wholly dedicated to

children from three to 11.

The move of the two year groups to the College is a return to the school’s historic roots as Senior Deputy Head Dr Alice McNeill explains: “Originally Years 7 (Figures) and 8

THIS GIVES ALOYSIUS HOUSE PUPILS TIME TO SETTLE IN, FORGE FRIENDSHIPS AND PROGRESS ACADEMICALLY, WHICH BRINGS SUCH JOY

(Rudiments) were within the College and it was only during the early part of the 20th century that they moved over to the Prep School.

“Bringing them back seemed the natural and most practical thing to do as from the age of 11, senior pupils are all now in the same building.”

Previously pupils would make the transition from the Prep School to the College at the age of 13 in Year 9 – giving them just a year before beginning GCSEs. Now, they have an extra two years to adapt to College life and senior education, which has many beneficial implications: “It extends their journey through the College. They now have five-years giving them time to settle in, forge friendships and progress academically, which brings such joy. It makes the College seem so complete.”

With a ‘middle school’ feel, Aloysius House give pupils access to many and varied facilities within the College building, including their own common rooms – known throughout the College as ‘Playrooms’ based on the emphasis placed on drama within a Jesuit education.

While retaining their individual year group and Playroom names of Figures and Rudiments all lessons and activities for pupils of Aloysius House take place within the College, enhancing the holistic development of each individual: “It is working really well and we have had nothing but positive feedback from parents and pupils,” adds Dr McNeill.

“Years 7 and 8 are really eager to learn and are so excited to be part of the College –they attend lessons in the College building, they have on-site access to the tennis dome,

swimming pool, theatre, golf course and they have their own playground surrounded by woodland and green spaces.”

Every Wednesday, pupils at Aloysius House embark on an exciting new Adventure curriculum, offering them the chance to participate in activities like archery, kayaking and climbing. They also receive an introduction to the Duke of Edinburgh Award.

PUPILS AT ALOYSIUS HOUSE EMBARK ON AN EXCITING NEW ADVENTURE CURRICULUM, OFFERING THEM THE CHANCE TO PARTICIPATE IN ACTIVITIES LIKE ARCHERY, KAYAKING, AND CLIMBING

They complete adventure activities to build vital skills including perseverance, resilience and teamwork, embedding the school motto ‘Quant je puis’ (‘As much as I can’) to become ‘men and women for others’.

Approximately half of the children at Aloysius House are boarders, residing at St Mary’s Hall throughout the school term, just a short distance from the College, along Brothers’ Walk. Boarders and non-boarders at

Stonyhurst come from across the globe, from all walks of life, giving pupils an international, multi-cultural, educational experience. This is part of the magic of Stonyhurst.

An extended school day continues to give parents of Year 7 and 8 pupils flexibility –there are opportunities to pick up after lessons at 5pm, after activities at 5.45pm,after supper at 6.15pm or after studies (homework) at 7.15pm, all included in the fees.

Saturday school will continue for College and Aloysius House pupils, while it is now optional for Years 4, 5 and 6 at St Mary’s Hall. Pupils at Aloysius House, within the vibrant senior school setting of Stonyhurst campus, enjoy a rich community experience, including dedicated assemblies and a weekly Mass in their private chapel, the Aloysius Chapel. The creation of Aloysius House within Stonyhurst is already proving to be an enriching experience for all involved, as Dr McNeill concludes: “The reconfiguration has been a very natural move for everyone –it hasn’t been a seismic shift but a very natural evolution giving pupils a seamless transition through the school. It has given pupils the best of both worlds.” n

College

Clitheroe BB7 9PZ 01254 827073

stonyhurst.ac.uk

Stonyhurst

Apply now for 2025. Scan the QR code to discover more.

NEW CHAPTER…

Heralding a new chapter in Westholme’s 100-year-old history, the school’s recently appointed Principal, Paul Taylor, addressed parents and pupils in an inspirational, headline speech at King George’s Hall

Just over a week into his tenure as new Principal of Westholme, Mr Paul Taylor attended the school’s annual prizegiving to deliver an inspirational speech that defined work ethics, robust support and strong leadership being at the heart of the school.

Mr Taylor, who brings his world-class experience to Westholme, following his time as head of Kings’ School Al Barsha in Dubai, said that while academic success was hugely important, there was so much more to a Westholme education than ‘raw results’: “We exist to promote a love of learning for the sake of learning and value the process, not just results,” he said.

“We will never be complacent about the quality of our teaching and learning. We are here to help our students to open doors to university study, apprenticeships and the world of work.”

He congratulated the leavers on their success, attributing it to the great partnerships between pupils, teachers and parents along with a fine work ethic: “Every grade of every child matters to me,” said Mr Taylor, whose daughter has just embarked on life as a pupil in Westholme’s INSPIRED Sixth Form.

“We have a deal with our own daughter –work as hard as you can and we will celebrate whatever results you get. I have the same deal with every student sitting here tonight.”

Westholme’s ‘added value’ ethos was a main theme running through Mr Taylor’s speech, which outlined and praised the school’s extensive co-curricular programme that promotes determination and confidence: “Students learn how, for example, to lose with the determination to improve, win with grace and communicate with confidence. In other words, develop what we as adults know are the skills really needed in life.”

WE NEED TO MAKE SURE THAT OUR STUDENTS HAVE THE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND PERSONALITIES TO COMPETE AND THRIVE IN THIS DYNAMIC GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT

He said the Westholme teaching ethos developed pupils’ strengths and built on their weaknesses, encouraging all to follow

their passions: “Our expectation is that our pupils work as hard as they can to open up opportunities in whatever direction they want to follow.”

He said that the ‘wellbeing’ of Westholme’s 21st century pupils was key to their success: “We know that happy children are more likely to learn and succeed than unhappy ones. Our happiness underpins our ability to make decisions and shape the world.”

He added that pupils now face a world that is far more challenging – a world where technological changes are moving swiftly in terms of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and demographic movement where young people are more likely to work in different countries and cultures.

“What can we do to make our pupils stand out from the competition?” he asked. “What this means for Westholme is that we need to make sure our students have the knowledge, skills and personalities to compete and thrive in this dynamic global environment.”

Nearing the end of his speech, which was greeted with enthusiastic applause, he reverted his attention back to the leavers, who are embarking on life outside Westholme: “Keep life in perspective,” he said. “I am sure that a Westholme education has put you in the best place possible to live your best life. Work hard, be kind, be useful and go well.” n

Wilmar Lodge, Meins Road

Pleasington BB2 6QU

01254 506070

Westholme School

THURSDAY 3 OCTOBER 2024 | 6PM – 9PM

Initially set up as a charity, M2M has branched out into an organisation that is helping hundreds of people live better, more fulfilled live

Back in 2018 Charlotte Kershaw founded M2M (Mind2Muscle) which features her own unique, specialist programme that helps those affected by neurological conditions.

A licensed practitioner and sports science lecturer, Director and CEO Charlotte has a background studying neurology, social and health care, physiotherapy and psychology.

After caring for her mum who lived with Parkinson’s Disease for more than two decades, and a daughter who had epilepsy,

CHARLOTTE HAS SUCCESSFULLY RUN AND COMPLETED HER OWN CLINICAL TRIALS ON HER CONCEPTS

Charlotte set up M2M pledging to help others with similar conditions: “I was told my daughter would never talk or walk,” she says.

“But she went to a mainstream school and she is now a qualified practitioner with M2M.”

Charlotte’s ability to blend her professional skills together with her deep understanding of the debilitating and restrictive nature of certain conditions, has enabled her to construct specific physical activity programmes aimed at alleviating the many day-to-day symptoms and restrictions associated with such conditions.

Since launching M2M, she set about training others in her practices and she now has an accredited programme of pathway courses under the M2M Academy, which is based in Blackburn and treats patients from throughout the region including the Ribble Valley.

“The qualifications are unique to the academy which is the first centre of its kind in the UK,” explains Charlotte.

Patients at M2M are often referred by the NHS, GPs and other organisations and once they arrive at the academy, they undergo a medical and physical assessment: “Conditions vary a great deal – they range from Parkinson’s Disease to Multiple Sclerosis – it’s a very wide remit. Then we look at a rehabilitation programme which may involve identifying physical realignments, muscle imbalances, motor skills that may help prevent falls. This is the work done by the academy – when patients have gone through assessment and rehabilitation, they are then put under the wing of the M2M charity for a programme that is ongoing where they can use the gym and all the equipment we have here.”

Passionate about what she does, Charlotte is keen to point out that the academy’s training programme not only works for the patients, but for the team as a whole, as they undergo ongoing training: “I am helping to train and educate people – they come here, get accredited qualifications and do case studies. It helps everyone,” explains Charlotte, who is affiliated with the University of East London and has

successfully run and completed her own clinical trials on her concepts, which focus not only on the physical aspect of rehabilitation but the mindset of patients too.

At the academy and gym there is a social interaction room and café that is used by patients, one of whom has been attending for many years: “It is the social side that also has many advantages,” he says. “It’s very easy to stay indoors when you are affected by certain conditions – and then it’s a downward spiral.

“When I came here I made new friends so it has helped my mental wellbeing as well as benefitting from the physical activity. We are all in the same boat here and it’s great that there is so much support.”

WE CAN FORMULATE A PLAN FOR PATIENTS –IT MAY INVOLVE COGNITIVE THERAPY, PHYSICAL ACTIVITY OR EXERCISES TO HELP WITH FUNCTIONAL SKILLS THAT IMPROVE EVERYDAY LIFE

Charlotte adds: “When patients come to M2M they have often lost their purpose in life. They think nothing can be done to help. But when they undergo rehabilitation they can get back into society, which is what people need.

“We have the skills so we can formulate a plan for patients – it may involve cognitive therapy, physical activity, exercises to help with functional skills that improve everyday life – simple things like picking up a washing basket that they may struggle with or fall prevention classes.

“Our practitioners are qualified to spot the symptoms and when they may arise. Patient programmes have to be sustainable,” adds Charlotte, who is hoping to roll out her M2M training model across Lancashire.

Winning numerous awards, M2M has been named as a Blackburn Rovers Health Champion and Global Health & Pharma Best Neurological & Mental Health Condition Practice 2022 in North West England.

Making a huge impact to many people’s lives, Charlotte and M2M have given children and adults from all walks of life a new start by improving wellbeing, confidence and self-esteem. n

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

BIBA SUCCESS

A glittering event saw guests gather at Blackpool’s iconic Tower Ballroom for the Be Inspired Business Awards (BIBAs).

Around 1,000 people attended the evening which featured 20 awards categories, entertainment and all the glitz and glamour of a black-tie event.

The sold-out BIBAs celebrated the best of business in Lancashire – from micro and manufacturing to leisure and low carbon – all judged by experts in their fields after a robust process which included applications, interviews and the BIBAs on Tour during which hundreds of miles were covered over the summer months when all finalists were visited so the judges could see where the magic happens. From back offices to warehouses, farmland to construction sites – the iconic black bus rolled across Lancashire to find out more about those who threw their hat into the ring to go for ‘the one they all want to win’.

Headline sponsors this year, Lancashire County Council, which also sponsored Business of the Year, have been behind the BIBAs since its launch back in January.

Amin Vepari, Senior Projects Officer at LCC, said: “As headline sponsors, we are immensely proud to stand alongside the BIBAs in recognising the talent and hard work that drives Lancashire’s economy forward.

“This event is a true celebration of local enterprise, innovation and collaboration.

“Winning a BIBA is the pinnacle for any Lancashire business and is to be celebrated, not just by the business

who walks away with an iconic trophy, but also by their peers within Lancashire’s thriving business community.”

Once again, the BIBAs had a stellar line-up of sponsors for its categories including Brabners, MHA, CKS Catering, Smooth Radio, Team Leyland, Intersys, Sustainable Energy First, Turnkey Corporate, FW Capital, BAE Systems and Construction EPA.

I’D LIKE TO THANK EVERYONE WHO HAS MADE THIS YEAR’S EVENT HAPPEN BECAUSE WITHOUT THEM, THIS WOULDN’T BE THE SUCCESS IT HAS BECOME

Babs Murphy, chief executive of the North & Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, which organised the event, said: “I’d like to thank everyone who has made this year’s event happen because without them, this wouldn’t be the success it has become and a staple in Lancashire’s business diary.”

Among this year’s winners were Marsden Building Society (Medium Business of the Year) and The Senator Group (Manufacturer of the Year) and the many and varied categories included Micro Business of the Year, Family Business of the Year, Apprentice Team of the Year, Innovative Business of the Year and Global Business of the Year – plus many more. n

Overdependence on a single business or investment can expose you to significant risks. Explore multiple business opportunities or investments to spread your risk and increase your chances of long-term success. In a rapidly-changing business landscape, you must adapt to emerging trends and technologies to ensure long-term success. Stay proactive and embrace innovation.

Inadequate risk management can leave your business vulnerable to financial setbacks. One crucial aspect of risk management is

GROW YOUR WEALTH… NOT JUST YOUR BUSINESS

Building wealth involves strategic planning. The experts at Raymond James Ribble Valley advise on how you can do this

You’ve made it! You have your own business which is running at a profit. Yes, it’s hard work but you’re in charge of your destiny. You love this sector. You have flexibility over your hours. You’re happy!

Except:

• Are you building wealth as well as a business?

• How long will you have to do this?

• Will the good times see you through the bad ones?

• What is your exit strategy for when you want one?

• How much will you need to provide a comfortable retirement when the income stream from your business is turned off?

Running a business provides a unique opportunity to build wealth and create financial security. Building wealth requires strategic planning and deliberate actions to maximise your success, much like running your business. But the two disciplines are somewhat different. While there is no guaranteed formula for success, following certain principles can significantly increase your chances of achieving financial prosperity. Your business needs to fund its own prosperity and your desired lifestyle, but you also need to have a plan to retain that desired lifestyle up to and through retirement.

Before focusing on wealth-building strategies, it is crucial to establish a solid financial

foundation. Doing it lays the groundwork for long-term financial success and ensures stability along your journey toward wealth creation. Develop a comprehensive budget that outlines your business and personal expenses. Differentiate between needs and wants and allocate resources accordingly.

Continuously investing in your personal and professional growth can significantly impact your long-term, wealth-building prospects. Acquiring specialised knowledge can lead to improved business performance and increased earning potential. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals, mentors and advisors can provide invaluable guidance, business opportunities and support.

Building wealth is a marathon, not a sprint. When it comes to building wealth, it’s important to be aware of obstacles that can hinder your progress. By identifying and addressing these bottlenecks proactively, you can navigate your financial journey more effectively and increase your chances of long-term success.

acquiring appropriate insurance coverage tailored to your business’s needs.

As if you hadn’t enough to do! Take a breath, help is at hand.

At Raymond James Ribble Valley the team of wealth managers has specific skills and experience to help you navigate your wealth-building journey. We work with business owners across the Ribble Valley, both on a business and personal level, understanding their priorities and goals, personal and professional.

With investment strategies covering pensions, asset management, diversified portfolio management, ISAs, government and corporate bonds, the Raymond James Ribble Valley team will help you develop a disciplined approach to saving and investing. In-house tax planning expertise combines with exit and succession planning to maximise the wealth potential that comes from owning your own business.

Don’t let what you have achieved so far be in vain in the long term. Convert your entrepreneurialism into wealth by speaking to our team. n

To book an appointment call 01772 780300 or email: info@rjiswealthmanagement.co.uk

With investing, your capital is at risk. Opinions constitute our judgement as of this date and are subject to change without warning. This article is intended for informational purposes only and no action should be taken or refrained from being taken as a consequence without consulting a suitably qualified and regulated person.

Raymond James Investment Services Limited 8 Berry Lane, Longridge Preston PR3 3JA 01772 780300

ribblevalley.raymondjames.uk.com

BIG DEAL… GREAT DEAL

The advantages of buying a used car from Bowker BMW are many and varied and include warranties, quality checks and manufacture protection, writes Paul Agnew. Photography: Peter Austin

Buying a used car is a big deal. The options are plentiful and it’s a time of great excitement and anticipation.

All you need to do is make the right choice – and that, like the search itself, can sometimes be a touch overwhelming.

And by ‘choice’ we’re not just talking about the quality of the used car itself, we’re talking about the quality of dealership too –a place where you can expect the very best in customer service, advice and selection of cars. Where you can find a car to suit your exact requirements whether you favour a fully-electric, a plug-in hybrid, a diesel or a petrol.

We’re talking Bowker BMW.

As one of the UK’s top BMW retailers, Bowker BMW – based right here in the heart of Lancashire – prides itself on providing all customers with that all-important peace of mind.

Never will you be shown or sold a vehicle that Bowker BMW considers to be anything less than top drawer.

That is all down to the guarantees within both the Used BMW programme and the Approved Used BMW programme.

And the difference is?

The Approved Used BMW programme insists on all cars having a full and verified BMW service history, proving that they have

been serviced at the correct intervals, using BMW approved fluids and genuine parts.

The Used BMW programme includes cars with a service history which may not align with Approved Used BMW standards. Each vehicle has been checked by fully trained BMW technicians and any required service work has been carried out in the Bowker BMW Service Centre before the car goes on sale.

In every other respect – and we are talking major attention to detail here – the two programmes are identical.

No vehicle leaves Bowker before it has been meticulously checked over, passed numerous quality checks and granted comprehensive manufacturer protection.

NO VEHICLE LEAVES BOWKER BEFORE IT HAS BEEN METICULOUSLY CHECKED OVER, PASSED NUMEROUS QUALITY CHECKS AND GRANTED COMPREHENSIVE MANUFACTURER PROTECTION

Not only do Bowker have manufacturertrained technicians in their workshops they also have a great car buying and sourcing team. All the right people in all the right places. People like Paul Hattersley, recently appointed as the new Group Buyer, who brings 20 years’ experience to the role and Paul Vincent, the long-serving Used Car Sales Manager based at Bowker BMW (Blackburn) who has helped establish Bowker BMW’s unrivalled reputation in the used car marketplace.

Paul (Hattersley) has been handed full

buying responsibility and will use his extensive knowledge to source the best used cars out there.

His career within the automotive retail sector – particularly with luxury cars – has included many key positions across sales and management.

“To take up this role with such a respected company is an exciting new chapter for me. Over the past two decades, working in the North West, I have established some great contacts and connections.

“I have learned a lot along the way and feel well equipped to meet the brief, which is to present Bowker BMW customers with the best possible selection of premium used cars,” he said.

Paul (Vincent) adds: “Having Paul on board is a big boost at what is a very exciting time in used car sales. The market is particularly buoyant and we want to stay ahead of the game by constantly adding quality cars to our stock.”

The advantages of buying a used car through the BMW programme are numerous. For example:

• Every vehicle must pass stringent 360º inspection checks performed by qualified BMW technicians. Any mechanical faults are rectified using only genuine BMW parts, which come with a two-year unlimited mileage warranty for added peace of mind.

• A comprehensive road test then ensures the driving experience meets BMW exacting standards and Bowker always encourages customers take a test drive too, to ensure complete satisfaction.

BOWKER HAVE MANUFACTURER-TRAINED TECHNICIANS AND THEY ALSO HAVE A GREAT CAR BUYING TEAM. ALL THE RIGHT PEOPLE IN ALL THE RIGHT PLACES

• An extensive manufacturer warranty provides unlimited mileage protection against breakdown and repair costs for parts and labour for a minimum of 12 months. All factory-fitted mechanical and electrical components are covered –even the exhaust and battery.

• You’re also covered for an accidental or mechanical emergency in the UK, Ireland and continental Europe, with assistance or recovery of your car.

• BMW Accident Support is available to any BMW owner, regardless of the age of your car. With one call, you’ll be connected immediately to a dedicated team of professionals who will ensure that you don’t have to face an accident alone.

• If an MOT test is due within the BMW warranty, then any resulting work will be completed free of charge.

It’s an impressive and comprehensive list containing all the reasons why Bowker BMW is the go-to centre for used BMWs. Not to mention, there are currently some amazing autumn deals just waiting to be snapped up. n

For further details, please visit the website or drop by the centre to speak to a member of their friendly team.

Bowker BMW Trident Park, Trident Way Blackburn BB1 3NU 01254 274444

bowkerblackburnbmw.co.uk

@BowkerBMW

@bmw_bowker

@bowker-motor-group

WINNING PARTNERSHIP

Two local businesses have joined forces to launch Sport England’s ‘Place Change Makers’ podcast series

Voice It Podcast Agency and Media Village, two locally-rooted companies with a passion for creativity and storytelling, have joined forces to tackle a new podcast project for Sport England, titled Place Change Makers.

After the success of 12 local delivery pilots (LDPs) and other place-based work around the UK where it is needed most, Sport England were looking to collect their learnings from key stakeholders who have been instrumental in delivering the original LDP’s as they look to now expand the initiative. With combined expertise in creative design, media production and podcasting, the two local agencies set out to create a compelling and impactful podcast series that would resonate with the Sport England internal team and wider audiences.

A significant achievement for local enterprise, the two Lancashire-based businesses successfully teamed up to win the contract and the collaboration has been central to bringing this vision to life.

Sport England is significantly increasing the number of places across the country that they partner with in order to explore the practicalities and challenges faced by those working to help promote physical activity.

IN LEVERAGING BOTH OUR RESOURCES AND EXPERTISE, WE ENSURED THAT EVERY EPISODE WAS OF THE HIGHEST QUALITY, READY TO INSPIRE AND ENGAGE SPORT ENGLAND’S AUDIENCE

Each podcast focuses on a key topic and deep dives into the associated skills, mindset and behaviours that are crucial for driving change.

There are episodes on people, empowerment, change and collaboration which help leaders overcome the specific barriers to physical activity that exist within their communities.

For Voice It Podcast and Media Village, the journey began with the development of a strong and consistent visual identity for the Place Change Makers podcast. Under the guidance of Creative Lead Nathan Littler and Account Manager Kate Bell, Media Village’s suite of in-house creatives designed an arsenal of impressive brand assets, including podcast cover art, social media graphics and promotional templates. This ensured that the series not only had a professional and aesthetically appealing foundation, but would also have a visual identity that could be delivered and recognised across multiple platforms.

Voice It Podcast Agency, under the guidance of Kath Lord-Green – known as Your Fairy Podmother® – played a pivotal role in shaping the podcast’s content.

As both consultant and host, Kath provided expert advice on structuring the episodes, ensuring they were both engaging and informative.

Kath’s podcasting expertise and enthusiasm were instrumental in delivering a series that not only sounded polished but also connected with Sport England’s intended listeners on a deeper level: “The collaboration was a seamless production from start to finish,” says Kath. “It didn’t stop at planning – we managed every aspect of the production process, bringing participants together from around the UK by setting up remote recordings. In leveraging both our resources and expertise, we ensured that every episode

was of the highest quality, ready to inspire and engage Sport England’s audience.”

Post-production, Media Village meticulously edited each episode to ensure clarity and smooth transitions, alongside developing a comprehensive toolkit for promoting and distributing the podcast. This included tailored social media graphics and detailed guidelines to amplify the reach of the Place Change Makers series, as Nathan explains: “To further boost visibility, we produced an animated promotional video that captured the essence of the podcast, sparking interest and encouraging a wider audience to engage.”

TO FURTHER BOOST VISIBILITY, WE PRODUCED AN ANIMATED PROMOTIONAL VIDEO THAT CAPTURED THE ESSENCE OF THE PODCAST, SPARKING INTEREST AND ENCOURAGING A WIDER AUDIENCE TO ENGAGE

The Place Change Makers project highlights the power of local businesses working together to make a national impact. By combining the strengths of Media Village and Voice It Podcast Agency, they were able to deliver a high-quality podcast series that showcases the incredible talent and expertise that exists right here in Lancashire. Teamwork at its best! n

nathan@media-village.co.uk kath@voiceitpodcastagency.co.uk

ONLY THE BEST

Lucy Bale meets two aficionados, who developed their passion for coffee in the US and Costa Rica, and have now brought their expertise to Lancashire

Down an unsuspecting side street off the main road in Barrowford, I met Tom and Milly of Wild Pen Coffee at their very own small batch roastery to hear all about their sustainable Arabica coffee all the way from Costa Rica. Surrounded by artwork designed by their daughter, Emily, and photographs of the farms by their son, Richard, I knew there was going to be some heart in the story behind Wild Pen.

The pair spent the best part of 30 years living and working in Boston, where their real love of coffee brewed. Tom had always been a self-confessed coffee aficionado and

when the opportunity arose to roast their own coffee from their garage, they jumped at it! Although a hobby in the States, when they moved back to the UK, they decided to make a real go of it and thus, Wild Pen was born. Tom and Milly told me all about the significance of the Rainforest Alliance, bean traceability and showed me the allimportant roasting room.

FROM FARM TO CUP

After some time testing different roasts and varietals with friends, Tom and Milly decided that if they were really going to take this seriously then they should visit

the farms from where they were sourcing their coffee beans. In November 2023, they hopped on a plane and visited Costa Rica, as Milly recalls: “I thought, if we’re going to do this, then let’s do it properly.”

CERTIFICATION MEANS AQUIARES FARM IS SUSTAINABLE IN ALL SENSES OF THE WORD, PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT AS WELL AS THE PEOPLE

When I questioned why Costa Rica over anywhere else, I was given a brief history on coffee production in the country and soon learnt that it’s famed for some of the highest quality coffee in the world as well as high standards and fairness for the workers on the farms. Seems like a no brainer really! Tom and Milly actually stayed at the farmer, Diego’s, hacienda and toured the Aquiares farm by horseback, getting a real feel for what goes into an exceptional cup of coffee.

For Wild Pen, being Rainforest Alliance endorsed is very important, so I asked Tom to explain a little bit more about this and why it means so much to them: “With endorsement, we can show that we mainly source coffee from Rainforest Alliance Certified farms such as Aquiares – their certification means the farm is sustainable in all senses of the word, protecting the environment as well as the people.”

WHILE TOM IS A FOUNTAIN OF KNOWLEDGE, HE RECOGNISES THAT THE BEST COFFEE IS THE COFFEE YOU LIKE –NO UNNECESSARY COFFEE SNOBBERY HERE!

In Costa Rica, coffee production is incredibly labour intensive due to the landscape and it’s all picked by hand, therefore the workers are extremely important. The environment and social welfare are fundamental at Wild Pen and I truly believe this comes through in the quality of the finished product.

When the coffee cherries are ripe, the workers at Aquiares pick them ready to be washed, graded and processed, which takes approximately four to six weeks. Once processed, the now green beans are bagged up in sacks and stored, ready to be sent on their next adventure! Personally, I was amazed to see the sacks of green beans at Wild Pen, still in their natural form all the way from Costa Rica, ready for the Wild Pen magic to take place.

ALL ABOUT THE ROAST

Tom and Milly have guaranteed they are getting the highest quality product, with complete traceability. Now it’s over to them to make sure they roast the beans to perfection to ensure they carefully balance sweetness with bitterness and all the flavours of each varietal whether that be cocoa, lemon or hazelnut. Now they have it down to a tee, the roasting process at their site in Barrowford takes less than 40 minutes! After being roasted in small batches and then cooled, the coffee

is bagged up and dated ready to be sent to Wild Pen’s lucky customers.

As a business, Wild Pen is passionate about all things coffee, but ultimately Tom and Milly know the taste is the most important thing for the drinker. While Tom is a fountain of knowledge, he also recognises that the best coffee is the coffee you like – no unnecessary coffee snobbery here! With six varietals, Wild Pen have made sure there is something that ticks everyone’s boxes from classic flavours to specialty fermented beans.

I was lucky enough to get treated to a coffee from the master himself (and a few biscuits of course) and was left needing to know how I could get my hands on more! For those of you who class yourselves as coffee connoisseurs, go onto their website and get stocked up. Even better – so you don’t have to worry about the fear of waking up to an empty coffee jar (we’ve all been there) Wild Pen offer a subscription service that you can pause or amend at any time. The perfect gift that keeps on giving for a caffeine-crazy loved one! The subscription not only gives you 10 per cent off the price of the coffee, but other products they sell too, such as the locally handmade coffee cups from Trawden Pottery. They also offer a wholesale opportunity for cafes and restaurants. I, for one, love to see a local or small batch option on the menu where I know some extra care and attention has gone into the process.

I have no doubt that Wild Pen will continue to grow in their success, while holding on to their small batch quality, driven by the provenance of the coffee beans and the attention to detail of the roast. No prizes for guessing where my next holiday destination plans are for – I wonder if Diego will put me up in his hacienda too? n

wildpencoffeeroasters.com

CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTRY…

The Ribble Valley, nestled in the heart of Lancashire, is a stunning location to enjoy the festive season

With its picturesque landscapes, cosy pubs and warm hospitality, the Ribble Valley is the perfect destination to celebrate Christmas with family and friends. Hosting or attending a Christmas party in the Ribble Valley is an exceptional experience. Many of the local hotels, restaurants and event spaces offer themed Christmas party nights with festive décor, entertainment and delicious menus. Popular venues often provide private

hire options, allowing you to create a tailormade event with bespoke decorations, DJs live music and traditional Christmas food options. And there are many venues holding Christmas party nights, complete with entertainment and overnight stay options, allowing guests to fully enjoy the evening without having to travel far.

Why it’s special:

• Beautifully decorated venues

• High-quality dining and festive drinks

• Stunning rural backdrops, ideal for cosy fireside celebrations

• Friendly and welcoming atmosphere

Spending Christmas Day in the Ribble Valley means treating yourself to an unforgettable festive feast. Many local restaurants and hotels offer special Christmas Day lunches and dinner menus, so you don’t have to worry about cooking. These meals often include locally sourced ingredients, creating a fresh and flavourful holiday meal in the idyllic surroundings of the Lancashire countryside.

Highlights include:

• Three to five-course gourmet Christmas meals

• Traditional dishes like roast turkey with all the trimmings, festive desserts such as Christmas pudding, and a selection of fine wines

• Friendly, attentive service that makes Christmas feel extra special

If you’re planning to enjoy the festive season throughout December, the Ribble Valley has an abundance of restaurants and pubs that offer generic Christmas dining. From festive afternoon teas to hearty dinners, the dining establishments in the area feature holidaythemed menus with seasonal ingredients, offering a cosy and inviting space to enjoy with loved ones.

Expect:

• Mulled wine, mince pies and Christmas-themed cocktails

• Seasonal dishes like spiced roast meats, festive pies and warming desserts

• Rustic, fireside settings that enhance the Christmas ambience

Whether it’s a family get-together, a friendly reunion, or a romantic date night, Ribble Valley venues offer the perfect blend of festive atmosphere and excellent cuisine.

Beyond dining and parties, the Ribble Valley exudes Christmas charm. With its historic villages decorated in festive lights, scenic countryside walks and the warmth of local hospitality, it is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and truly enjoy the magic of the season.

Whether you’re celebrating with a Christmas party, enjoying a luxurious meal on Christmas Day, or indulging in festive dining throughout the season, the Ribble Valley offers something truly special for everyone. Its combination of breathtaking natural beauty and exceptional local cuisine ensures that Christmas in this region is both peaceful and memorable. n

SAVOUR THE SEASON

The Rum Fox is the perfect place to experience autumn delights and festive cheer – with the finest food and drink, writes Gail Bailey

The Rum Fox gastro pub, nestled in the charming village of Grindleton, is a delightful fusion of traditional pub warmth and contemporary dining flair.

As we all start to feel a nip in the air and the nights begin to draw in, thoughts turn to autumn and the festive season with images of roaring log fires and hearty, warming dishes: “As the seasons change so do the offerings on our menus,” explains talented chef patron at the Rum Fox Bob Geldeard.

“The season heralds the arrival of local game, such as venison and pheasant, allowing for rich, flavourful meals that evoke the essence of the Ribble Valley countryside.”

THE SEASON HERALDS THE ARRIVAL OF LOCAL GAME SUCH AS VENISON AND PHEASANT, ALLOWING FOR RICH, FLAVOURFUL MEALS THAT EVOKE THE ESSENCE OF THE RIBBLE VALLEY COUNTRYSIDE

The menus at the Rum Fox showcase a mouthwatering selection of seasonal dishes such as loin venison with cep mushrooms and a delicious damson gin sauce, whole roasted and deboned stuffed partridge, as well as ox cheek, mushroom and onion suet pudding with crinkle cut chips, seasonal vegetables and gravy – all expertly crafted by Bob with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

“We always aim to offer a combination of hearty pub classics and innovative culinary creations, so our customers can indulge in

flavours that reflect the best of British and local cuisine,” says Bob. And with its myriad of flavours and textures, autumn dishes at the Rum Fox celebrate the best of nature’s bounty.

Christmas is just around the corner and at the Rum Fox Christmas Day is as popular as ever and already fully booked! But there is still lots of opportunity to join the festive fun. Throughout the whole of December there will be a set Christmas menu to enjoy and

there’s still availability for Christmas Eve to sample a sensational seven-course set menu. The Den is the private dining room at the Rum Fox, which can seat up to 12 people, and it’s the ideal space to catch up with special people to enjoy a special dining experience.

The Rum Fox isn’t only the perfect place to dine it’s also the perfect treat, with gift vouchers on offer for someone special: “Customers can call in, telephone or buy online,” says Bob. “Our vouchers are for any value and are the ideal gift. We can also post them direct to the recipient with a greetings card too.”

Along with this, the Rum Fox will be helping its customers to bring in 2025 on New Years Eve: “We love sharing Christmas festivities with our customers and alongside our Christmas menu we will be hosting a black tie dinner on New Year’s Eve and still have a few tables remaining. It’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy fizz on arrival, seven special courses, along with live music and a party in the Garden Room to celebrate the arrival of the New Year.”

The food and interior at the Rum Fox make it an ideal spot to unwind after a day exploring the picturesque Ribble Valley countryside but whether you’re enjoying a leisurely lunch, a cosy dinner by the fire, or a lively evening with friends, Bob is keen to celebrate his front of house team who create the warm, welcoming atmosphere for which the Rum Fox has become renowned: “My partner Kiaja is the General Manager working closely with Assistant Managers Emma and Daniel to make sure everything is perfect for our customers, not forgetting the warm welcome from Tess at the weekends! Most of our team have been with us since

MOST OF OUR TEAM HAVE BEEN WITH US SINCE OPENING 18 MONTHS AGO AND THEY REALLY ARE A HUGE PART OF OUR SUCCESS AND I’M VERY GRATEFUL TO THEM

opening 18 months ago and they really are a huge part of our success, and I’m very grateful to them.”

Mid-week lunches continue to be popular and tables in the bar can now be booked: “We are in a beautiful part of the Ribble Valley, and as we are dog friendly in the bar, we are the perfect place to stop after a walk in our wonderful countryside. Customers can call in for lunch and enjoy a pint and a delicious pie from our tasty autumnal menu,” Bob says. n

BELL ISS IMO !

Gio’s, a newly opened Italian deli café in Clitheroe, is already delighting food lovers with a combination of authentic Italian flavours and locally sourced ingredients, writes Tedd Walmsley

Gio’s is quickly becoming an exciting addition to Clitheroe’s already established food scene. The deli, founded by a very passionate and experienced Joseph Lanzante specialises in bringing a true taste of Italy, by offering an array of imported Italian delicacies and staying connected to the region’s local producers too.

Gio’s serves breakfast, lunch and afternoon delights making it a versatile destination for

locals and visitors alike. Whether you are starting your day with an Italian style breakfast, indulging in a fresh, clean hearty lunch or treating yourself to an exquisite afternoon coffee and pastry, the café – deli appeals to a wide range of tastes.

SITTING OUTSIDE, WE DECIDED TO HAVE A COFFEE AND SWEET TREAT IN THE FORM OF A TRADITIONAL LEMON CANNOLI

The menu features Italian classics with a super range of pasta dishes, handmade deli sandwiches and a stunning selection of pastries that are a combination of the highest quality imported Italian products and the very best of our local producers to maintain the quality across the whole offering.

What truly sets Gio’s apart however, is the passion and enthusiasm of Joseph. His heart and soul have gone into creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere where customers can enjoy both exceptional food and service. His enthusiasm for food is infectious and it shines through in the attentive and friendly service provided by the team.

Kate and I popped in to enjoy a late lunch and were treated to some outstanding food –I simply had to try great grandma Lanzante’s lasagne and it was divine – a rich meat sauce and so much flavour in those sweet tomatoes. Kate opted for the carbonara, and our clean plates were testimony to our enjoyment. Kate was also tempted by a glass of cold white wine – Italian of course, which complemented the food particularly well.

Sitting outside, we decided to have a coffee and sweet treat in the form of a traditional lemon cannoli. If you close your eyes and sip the delicious coffee you could, just for a moment think you had been transported to Italy. Joseph has created a niche for himself and the whole experience was first class! Watch out for some exciting developments with weekend openings and some special events to follow in the autumn. I’ve even promised Kate a return for an Italian breakfast the next time she visits the Ribble Valley.

Bellissimo! n

Gio’s Clitheroe 3 New Market Street Clitheroe BB7 2JW

Photography:

Kirsten Platt

Photography: Kirsten Platt

FEELING FESTIVE?

Dine from our three-course festive menu throughout December, served Monday to Saturday 12-9, and our festive Sunday Lunch is served Sunday 12-8. TWO COURSES: £26.50 THREE COURSES: £32.50

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

Kick off the Christmas season with a festive inspired brunch, gingerbread decorating, kids entertainment throughout and a visit from Santa himself.

CHILDREN: £18.95 ADULTS: £12.95

CHARLOTTE TILBURY MASTERCLASS

Learn the tips and tricks of the trade from the team at Selfridges Charlotte Tilbury, tick off your Christmas shopping, all whilst enjoying a Christmas cocktail & festive graze station too. TICKETS: £30

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

Our second December date, it’s time to do it all again! Enjoy your choice of festive inspired brunch, and gingerbread decorating, entertainment throughout and of course a visit from Santa himself.

CHILDREN: £18.95 ADULTS: £12.95

FESTIVE FEVER PARTY NIGHT

Celebrate with friends, family or colleagues, and enjoy red carpet arrival & welcome drink, threecourse festive feast and entertainment throughout from our house DJ over at Exceed Events. TICKETS: £45

CHRISTMAS DAY AT MYTTON FOLD

Celebrate Christmas Day here at Mytton Fold Hotel with the whole family. Enjoy a welcome drink on arrival, three-course Christmas Dinner, followed by tea, coffee & homemade sweet treats. £110.00 PER PERSON

Scan the QR to discover festive events at Mytton Fold Hotel, purchase your tickets and browse all festive menus. 01 DEC 01 DEC 05 DEC 15 DEC 21 DEC 25 DEC

Make this Christmas one to remember, when you celebrate it at Mytton Fold Hotel. Mytton Fold Hotel, Whalley Road, Langho, Blackburn, BB6 8AB | 01254 240 662

AUTUMN BLISS

Nothing says comfort like a classic treacle tart and at Greendale Teahouse & Rooms, we’ve given this treasured British pud a little extra buzz. Photography: Jacqui Shepherd

TREACLE TART, VANILLA CHANTILLY WITH MACERATED RASPBERRIES

Cuts into 12 portions.

INGREDIENTS & EQUIPMENT

For the sweet pastry:

1 x 25cm (10 inch) tart tin

125g unsalted butter, softened

100g icing sugar, sifted

50g beaten egg

250g plain flour, sifted

Pinch fine sea salt

For the treacle filling:

465g golden syrup

70g dark treacle

50ml double cream

Zest of 1 lemon

20g lemon juice

250g fresh breadcrumbs

100g stale cake or scone (rubbed into fine crumbs)

50g ground almonds

Half tsp ground ginger

For the vanilla Chantilly cream:

250g double cream

1 tsp vanilla bean paste, or extract, or the seeds of 1 vanilla pod

15g icing sugar

15g soft brown sugar

For the raspberries:

Punnet of autumn raspberries

Splash of lemon juice

1 tsp icing sugar

WINE PAIRING:

SHOW LIQUEUR MUSCAT FROM DE BORTOLI

Julian Kaye of the Wright Wine Company says:

“Treacle tart has that wonderful rich and syrupy flavours that lends itself to many styles of dessert wine like Tokaj or Muscat de Frontignan or even fortified Madeira.

“However, my favourite wine match is Show Liqueur Muscat from de Bortoli in Australia.

“Aged for eight years in a barrel, rich and golden brown in colour with beautiful raisin, coffee and caramel flavours, it should be a match made in heaven!”

Available from Wright Wines: £18.50 (50cl) wineandwhisky.co.uk

METHOD

Pre-heat the oven to 175°C (fan assisted).

Make the sweet pastry: Place the softened butter and icing sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer (or use a wooden spoon, a bowl and some elbow grease). Beat the mixture until light and airy, then gradually add in the beaten egg. Remove the bowl from the mixer and carefully fold in the flour along with a pinch of salt. Bring the dough together with your hands to form a smooth ball, flatten into a disc and wrap in cling film. Refrigerate for at least one hour.

Prepare the pastry case: Roll out the chilled pastry on a lightly floured surface and line the tart tin. Trim any excess pastry and chill the lined case in the fridge for 10-20 minutes.

CHEF MICHAEL VANHESTE CREATES A DELICIOUSLY RICH TREACLE TART TOPPED WITH SEASONAL RASPBERRIES

Blind bake – line the pastry case with scrunched-up baking paper and fill with ceramic baking beans. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the beans and paper. Bake for another 10 minutes until the pastry is golden and fully cooked.

Make the filling: In a large bowl, mix together the syrup and treacle, double cream, lemon zest and juice, breadcrumbs, ground almonds, ground ginger and cake or scone crumbs (you can replace the latter with breadcrumbs or ground almonds). Stir well until the filling is completely combined.

Assemble: Pour the filling into the chilled pastry case, leaving about 30mm from the top for the filling to rise slightly. Reduce the oven temperature to 160°C (fan assisted) and bake the tart for a further 30 minutes or until the filling is just about set.

Serve: Allow the tart to cool slightly before removing it from the tin. In a small bowl, mix the double cream with vanilla and sugars, stirring until the soft brown sugar dissolves. Whisk until the cream just holds stiff peaks. Toss the raspberries in lemon juice and icing sugar. Serve the tart slightly warm, dusted with icing sugar, topped with raspberries and a good dollop of Chantilly cream. n

greendaleteahouse.co.uk

A Christmas to Remember at Northcote’s Chef Table

Indulge in culinary magic this Christmas at Northcote.

Our Chef’s Table offers a truly unforgettable dining experience, perfect for those seeking sophistication and exceptional taste.

Witness the magic: Immerse yourself in the heart of our kitchen as our talented chefs prepare your festive feast.

A symphony of flavours: Savour exquisite dishes crafted by Lisa Goodwin-Allen with the finest seasonal ingredients.

Expert wine pairings: Let our sommelier guide you through a carefully curated selection of fine wines to complement your meal.

Reserve your table today and experience the epitome of Christmas dining at Northcote.

EMBRACE THE MAGIC…

With a new menu that embraces the flavour of the changing seasons, diners at the Coach and Horses have a magical experience ahead of them

As the crisp autumn air settles over the picturesque village of Bolton-by-Bowland, there’s no better place to indulge in the season’s finest offerings than the Coach and Horses. Nestled in the heart of the Ribble Valley, the Grade II listed coaching inn combines rustic charm with sophisticated dining, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers this autumn.

To tie in with the start of autumn, the inn has launched new à la carte and tasting menus, carefully crafted to showcase the best local ingredients and flavours that celebrate the changing season. Whether you’re visiting for a leisurely midweek meal or a weekend getaway, the team of talented chefs have created a culinary experience that promises to be nothing short of exceptional.

The autumnal à la carte menu features a delicious selection of dishes that capture the essence of the season. Think rich, hearty game, succulent slow-cooked meats, and vibrant vegetables – all sourced from nearby farms and local suppliers. Every dish is a testament to the natural bounty of the Ribble Valley, with flavours designed to evoke the warmth and comfort of a cosy autumn evening.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, the Coach and Horses offers a seasonal tasting menu that is the perfect way to savour a range of flavours across multiple courses. Each dish is thoughtfully paired with fine wines, expertly chosen to complement the rich autumnal tones on the plate.

In November, there are special midweek and weekend tasting packages *. These exclusive offerings are designed to give guests a complete dining and overnight stay experience, paired with the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that the Coach and Horses is known for. Imagine enjoying an expertly curated meal by the crackling fire, surrounded by the stunning countryside, where every bite feels like a celebration of the season, before retiring to one of the unique and welcoming bedrooms for a restful night’s sleep, followed by a hearty, full English breakfast the following morning.

Whether you’re a regular visitor or new to the area, we invite you to embrace the magic of autumn at the Coach and Horses. Treat yourself to an unforgettable meal and discover why this historic inn remains a favourite among those who appreciate the finer things in life. n

*Midweek Tasting Package is £195 per room, Weekend Tasting Package is £225 per room.

CELEBRATE | DINE | STAY

We look forward to welcoming you at Gibbon Bridge to make your festive celebrations extra special

CHRISTMAS DINING

Commencing Sunday 1st December

LUNCH 12 noon - 2pm

2 Courses £30 • 3 Courses £36

DINNER 6pm - 7:30pm

2 Courses £30 • 3 Courses £36

SUNDAY LUNCH 12 noon - 2pm

2 Courses £32 • 3 Courses £38 with Live Piano Music

CHRISTMAS WREATH DEMONSTRATION & WORKSHOP

Monday 9th December, 10.30am

Join Anne and Grace who will show off their floristry skills to show you how to make a festive wreath.

Followed by a delicious lunch of traditional turkey with all the trimmings and Christmas pudding with our famous brandy sauce accompanied by a glass of wine.

Afternoon workshop with all the materials and help you step by step to ensure you take a gorgeous wreath home that you will proudly display for the festive season.

Half-day £42.50pp inc morning coffee, demonstration and two course lunch

Full-day £75pp inclusive of coffee, demonstration, two course lunch and afternoon workshop to make a wreath to take home.

Special accommodation rate for full-day attendees:

£160 Double / £110 Single

Including 2 course Dinner, B&B

CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER

Tuesday 24th December

Our roaring fire awaits you along with a warmed glass of Mulled Wine and the chef’s favourite canapes.

These are followed by a three-course dinner and coffee and entertainment from the wonderful Wal & Dav.

£45pp • Payment required on booking

FUN DAY WITH FATHER CHRISTMAS

Monday 23rd December, 11.30am

This is a fabulous afternoon for all the family!

Not only is Father Christmas joining us, but our children’s entertainer will be with us to entertain them during the afternoon as well! All the children will receive a gift.

Adults £25 • Children 5-12 £17 • Children under 5 £8.50

NEW YEAR'S EVE DINNER DANCE

Tuesday 31st December, 7pm

Celebrate in style at Gibbon Bridge and join us until 1am for a wonderful evening of food, drink, and dancing

£110.00 per person. £25 deposit per person

Stay Over: Double or Twin Room £450 • Double or Twin Suite £500 • Staple Oak Suite £600. £250 deposit. Payable in full by 1st December.

WEDDING OPEN DAY

Saturday 4th January, 11am - 2pm

Head to gibbon-bridge.co.uk for the full list of upcoming events.

TASTY CHRISTMAS…

Booths is excited to introduce you to the ever-anticipated 2024 Christmas range with a preview of some of the team’s favourite new arrivals

Whether you’re after a feast fit for all the family, a starter to rival all celebrations, or a decadent dessert, here is a selection of the latest festive options from Booths.

STARTERS

Coquilles St Jacques

Scallops in a creamy white wine sauce, topped with a parsley panko breadcrumb and Regato cheese, served in scallop shells.

Baking Camembert with Acacia honey and truffle

Soft and creamy French Camembert with an Acacia honey and truffle flavoured glaze.

CHRISTMAS DINNERS

Great northern Christmas dinner

Includes free range British turkey breast joint in a herb jus, pigs in blankets and rosemary topped sage and onion pork stuffing centrepiece, British Lakeland pigs in blankets, Mash Direct prepared vegetable box, TRUEfoods turkey gravy, TRUEfoods sourdough bread sauce, TRUEfoods cranberry sauce, extra fruity Christmas pudding, and raspberry and vanilla panna cotta bauble.

MAIN COURSES

British turkey crown with festive cranberry and bacon stuffing

Slow cooked British turkey crown stuffed with festively seasoned British pork sausage meat with cranberry and bacon.

British beef topside joint with carrots and gravy

Slow cooked topside of British beef, with carrots in a rich red wine gravy.

Cook nut loaf

A blended loaf of toasted nuts, Madeira-soaked apricots, mushrooms and herbs, topped with a red onion marmalade.

DESSERTS

Raspberry & vanilla panna cotta bauble

Smooth Madagascan vanilla panna cotta, sitting on a strawberry jelly with fresh raspberries and a raspberry sauce for drizzling.

Caramel drip cake

Triple layered caramel sponge sandwiched with caramel buttercream, topped with

millionaire caramel sauce, chocolate truffle balls and snowflakes.

CHEESE

Mature blue stilton topped with walnuts and a honey glaze

Award-winning blue Stilton made for Booths by Long Clawson Dairy, cheese makers for over 100 years. Perfectly matured for a tangy flavour and a creamy texture. Served with a jar of English honey and walnuts.

PARTY FOOD

Gochujang chicken kebabs with spicy Korean inspired dip

British chicken thigh kebabs in a gochujang marinade served with a soy, chilli and garlic dip.

BBQ pulled beef rolls kit

Mini bread rolls filled with pulled British beef brisket, in a rich and sticky barbecue sauce.

Findlater’s vegetarian bundle

A delicious selection of vegetarian pâtés and dips including red lentil and coconut pâté, mushroom with Madeira wine and truffle oil pâté, wilted spinach and ricotta dip, roasted red pepper dip, Findlater’s famous coleslaw along with a box of mini oatcakes.

Tear & share cheese Christmas tree pastry

Handmade three cheese and rosemary puff

pastry Christmas tree filled with Italian hard cheese, red Leicester and cream cheese with a garlic aioli dipping sauce. n

All available to pre-order from Booths from 10th October 2024.

Rebecca Cooper finds exceptional food, topnotch service and a truly warm welcome at The Eagle at Barrow

TOP-NOTCH

ew venues can compete with The Eagle’s stunning terrace – especially on a sun-drenched day. With ample tables shaded by parasols, it was the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch with a friend.

The new menu impresses with its blend of traditional favourites, daily specials and a creative mix of modern British dishes influenced by global flavours. The choices were outstanding – homemade pizzas from the pizza oven, classic dishes including steak, ale, and

mushroom pie, a variety of sausages and mains such as Spring lamb rump. Even the salad and sandwich options were enticing!

We decided to share four small plates – Cumberland chipolatas, hummus, chicken bites and tempura vegetables with a Korean chilli dip – a bargain at four for just £20. For my main, I chose pan-fried seabass, served on a warm salad of new potatoes, spinach, tomatoes, peppers, chorizo and orange segments. My friend opted for the French trimmed chicken

breast, served with herb rosti potato in a creamy mustard sauce, finished with tarragon oil.

For dessert, I indulged in decadent chocolate brownie with ice cream, while my friend enjoyed Pimms Monty. Both were generous and absolutely delicious!

The food was exceptional, and the attentive service made our visit. We wrapped up the day with a stop at Berkin’s Deli, on-site, which supplies The Eagle and its sister site, the Fence Gate, with top-quality, locally sourced meat. We look forward to returning soon to enjoy the cosy interior, complete with roaring fires and traditional real ales, this winter! n

The Eagle at Barrow Clitheroe Road, Barrow BB7 9AQ 01254 825285 theeagleatbarrow.co.uk

PARTY SATURDAY 2ND NOVEMBER

Kicking off November with a unique Halloween celebration! Kids can enjoy a spooktacular party with games, costumes and a disco. Followed by a fun-filled night for adults with fancy dress partying until midnight!

CELEBRATE HALLOWEEN WITH US AT THE EAGLE WHERE THERE’S FUN FOR ALL AGES! MAKE THIS CHRISTMAS EXTRA SPECIAL BY SPENDING IT WITH SANTA AT THE EAGLE!

Join us in the Terrace Room for a magical Santa’s Lunch! Enjoy a 2-course meal, a Santa meet-and-greet, kids’ disco and much, much more — perfect for the whole family! Our fabulous Christmas Party Nights are back starting on Friday, December 6th! Enjoy a delicious three-course meal and get ready to dance the night away with our resident DJ!

Children 4-6pm, Adults 7.30pm-midnight

FORAGER’S FEAST

Autumn is the perfect time for foraged food and Eight at Gazegill is celebrating nature’s kitchen with autumnal menus and a wildinspired special evening event, writes Gail Bailey

“This time of year, it is all about the bounty,” Gazegill’s Restaurant Manager Kim Talbot explains: “Autumn is the best season for foraged food and our new menu reflects that – at Eight at Gazegill seasonality and sustainability are two of the most important factors that help us create the dishes we offer.”

The Lancashire landscape offers a myriad of food, but we often eat it without giving much thought beyond how good it tastes. But at Eight at Gazegill there is a deep connection to the land through the legacy of Gazegill Farm and wild foods feature strongly in the culinary creations served by chef Doug Crampton and his team: “Our talented chefs are always looking for new ways to excite and educate our palate and autumn is an exceptional time to do this,” adds Kim.

On 18th October Eight at Gazegill is hosting a banquet-style event to showcase some of

the wild foods that are available: “Doug has teamed up with professional forager Craig Worrall to present a specially designed menu,”

says Kim. “The five-course Forager’s Feast is available for one night only and is the first of its kind for us – but we hope to continue with similar events throughout the year to reflect the diverse food available across the seasons.”

Craig Worrall is a specialist wild food forager, teacher and chef at Edible Leeds and has been teaching, cooking, writing and experimenting with wild foods for 15 years.

“Craig is big advocate of wild foods and the natural world, for a host of reasons,

FORAGER’S FEAST

18th October

A wild-inspired menu showcasing the very best of wild, foraged and organic seasonal ingredients served across five delicious courses!

including health and wellbeing and a deeper understanding of nature,” explains Kim. “We feel very lucky to be working with him. He specialises in all areas of wild foods including plants, fungi, seaweeds, shellfish and game, and is passionate about reconnecting people to the natural world.”

Forager’s Feast is perfect for food lovers with a wild-inspired menu showcasing the very best of foraged and organic seasonal ingredients, served across five courses. Craig and Doug have combined their food philosophy and love of stylish, unpretentious yet creative foods – underpinned by deliciousness! The evening will take customers on a memorable taste journey with a menu, including a Forager’s Cocktail on arrival, followed by delightful dishes such as organic chipolatas with Gazegill honey and hogweed, acorn tacos, Orkney scallops and preserved sea vegetables, local venison loin with wild berries and smoked Crapaudine beetroot and venison ‘bun’ and even a special smoked cep ice-cream.

Since opening in spring Eight at Gazegill has been delighting customers with a dining experience that has a conscious obligation to nature: “We have all-day menus with special autumn treats such as seasonal Parkin cake,” says Kim. “Perfect to enjoy with a coffee on the terrace enjoying the last of the seasonal sunshine!” n

Eight at Gazegill Gazegill Organics, Dancer Lane Rimington, Clitheroe BB7 4EE 01200 445519

reservations@eightatgazegill.co.uk eightatgazegill.co.uk

FESTIVE FEASTS

Speak to a member of our team about booking your Christmas party! Celebrate the festive season here at EIGHT

EIGHT AT GAZEGILL Lower Gazegill Farm, Dancer Lane, Rimington, Clitheroe, BB7 4EE 01200 445519 | reservations@eightatgazegill.co.uk | eightatgazegill.co.uk

BRITISH CLASSICS…

With new-season menus, weekend breakfasts and roaring fires, there’s always something to look forward to at the Black Bull and Edisford Bridge, writes Tedd Walmsley

It had been far too long since I had last caught up with the irrepressible Becky Govier. My timing was impeccable as she had hot-footed back from her second site in Clitheroe, the Edisford Bridge. She and husband Jamie had just signed the lease to secure its long-term future under their care and more-than-capable stewardship.

The Edisford is unashamedly, a traditional and historic Ribble Valley pub with great value food and drink to match its surroundings. It’s clear that the customer base is a mix of returning loyal locals and visitors many of whom are staying locally. Great pub food classics and even a weekend breakfast service have become very popular indeed.

It was also fantastic to see work finally going full steam ahead on their other project, Keepers Cottage at the Black Bull. Now back on schedule for a spring 2025 opening, this stylish boutique hotel will add much needed quality accommodation to our local area. Becky and Jamie’s commitment, drive and determination and their ‘can do’ attitude really needs to be acknowledged and applauded.

THE BLACK BULL CHRISTMAS PARTIES WERE SO POPULAR LAST YEAR THAT MANY OF THE NIGHTS ARE ALREADY FILLING UP

Having covered off the macro issues, I was keen to understand how autumn and winter looked at the Black Bull. On the day of my visit there was a definite autumn feel and a nip in the air – a waft of wood smoke told me that the fires were lit. It’s times like these that British pubs come into their own, with menu changes to reflect the season and a move towards creating a cosy and comfortable escape from the approaching colder weather.

Over the years I’ve seen first-hand Becky’s efforts and innovations to encourage people to visit her pub. A great example of this is a

Photography: Wayne Farrow

new autumn set menu which has just launched which is available Monday to Thursday 12 noon to 5 pm. It’s terrific value for money but with no compromise – with two courses at £25 and three at £28, this looks a splendid way to sample some of the Bull’s classics. I could also be tempted with the ‘pie and a pint’ Thursday or a ‘schnitzel and spritzer’ on the same menu. I envisage a host of different, tempting offers coming up in the weeks ahead – social media platforms are probably the best way to keep up with what’s new.

IT’S TIMES LIKE THESE THAT BRITISH PUBS COME INTO THEIR OWN, WITH MENU CHANGES TO REFLECT THE SEASON AND A MOVE TOWARDS CREATING A COSY ESCAPE

All our Ribble Valley restaurants are now also starting to gear up for Christmas and the New Year. Becky and the team always have plans in place to ensure you make the most of the festive season – their parties were so popular last year that many of the nights are already filling up. The combination of great food, an amazing drink selection and live music makes this both a popular and an obvious choice for those organising small office parties or those getting friends and family together to kickstart Christmas. With four Fridays starting 29th November through to 20th December I would suggest securing your place with an early booking –small groups under 15 won’t need to pre-order which I think takes the heat out of the organisation and keeps things flexible so you can simply enjoy the night. Becky and her incredible team have worked

Photography: Wayne Farrow

tirelessly on making the Black Bull the ‘go-to’ for events. I noticed recently two very different groups, both full of praise about their own very different individual experiences. One group was celebrating the passing of a loved one and the other an uplifting baby shower. All private events are bespoke and tailored to suit the occasion and I believe that this combination of innovation and consistency is the key to the continued success of Becky and both her teams. The root of her ambition is simply to ensure that her customers have the very best experience possible and off the back of that, I think it’s probably time to get a good old fashioned Sunday lunch booked into the diary and enjoy a signature roast in the very best of surroundings.

Enjoy autumn at the Bull – you will be very welcome. n

CHRISTMAS WHAT’S ON AT THE BLACK BULL

CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHTS

FOOD – DRINK – LIVE MUSIC

Friday 29th November

Phil Halliwell

Friday 6th December

Hayley Eccles

Friday 13th December

Lois

Friday 20th December

Arthur Geldard

SANTA & HIS ELVES

First three weekends in December

Saturday 21st December

Faye Bailey and carol singers

Christmas Eve

Chris Royal Jazz Soul (from 7pm)

Christmas Day Drinks 11am – 1pm Dining 1pm onwards

Boxing Day

Irish Duo (from 4.30pm)

New Year’s Eve Phil Halliwell, DJ and fireworks

The Black Bull

Old Langho Road, Old Langho BB6 8AW 01254 248801

enquiries@theblackbulloldlangho.co.uk theblackbulloldlangho.co.uk

Edisford Bridge Country Pub

Edisford Bridge, Edisford Road, Clitheroe BB8 3LJ 01200 422637 01254 248801

Edisfordbridgecountrypub

AUBERGINE AND RED PEPPER CHILLI WITH PICKLED RED ONIONS

This recipe is warming, colourful and adaptable to serve in different ways. As a variation to serving with focaccia, parmesan fried eggs can be added or the chilli can be served on a bed of rice or a jacket potato – all are really delicious!

TOP TIP: Make sure you get the aubergine quite dark but also make sure it is nice and soft. Where possible use a hot cast iron plate to sear the aubergine to get them nice and dark and to help give a smoky flavour and the oven for slow cooking the red peppers. This tenderises and sweetens them.

Heat the hot plate. Slice the aubergines into 3cm thick rounds and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Sear the slices directly on the middle of the hot plate. Cover to keep moisture in and cook on both sides until they are soft and browned.

Halve the red peppers and remove seeds and stalks. Place in a roasting tray with olive oil, salt and pepper and chopped garlic. Bake in the oven at 160˚c until soft (about an hour).

Chop or slice the two white onions and cook with a little oil in a deep pan. Add the spices and the chilli. (Soak the chilli in hot water first and cut it up with a pair of scissors)

Ingredients:

2 x aubergines

2 onions (and 1 red onion)

3 red peppers

1 dried chipotle chilli

1 tsp cumin seeds

2 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp ground coriander

1 tbsp brown sugar

2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

300g cherry tomatoes

400g tin tomatoes

2 cans kidney beans

Salt and pepper

2 large handfuls of spinach leaves

1 lime Olive oil

Add the peppers, aubergines, tomatoes, beans, sugar and vinegar. Allow to simmer gently and then check for seasoning and adjust to your taste.

Finely slice the red onion, cover with some white vinegar and a little white sugar. Leave to soften in this pickle.

To serve: Stir the spinach into the hot chilli. Add a squeeze of lime juice to taste. Place chilli in a bowl with a grilled slice of focaccia and some of the pickled red onions. n

Recipe created by chef Dominique Ashford for ESSE Range Cookers, Barnoldswick, Lancashire.

esse.com/recipes

INVESTMENT TO BE ENJOYED

Time, that most valuable of commodities, is crucial for David Moore, who has set up an exclusive distillery to make artisanal whisky

‘From grain to glass’ – a simple ethos that distiller David Moore is passionate about. His aim, however, is far from simple. He has high hopes that his whisky will soon compete on the world stage in terms of taste, investment and enjoyment.

While Pendle Witch Distillery is an artisan set-up, David’s ambitions are huge when it comes to using the most refined techniques, the best grain, expertly-chosen barrels and that most valuable of commodities – time.

“There are so may aspects of distilling that it has been very much a project involving experimentation, trial and error,” says David, who set up the distillery in 2020.

Timewise, it will be years until David sees the fruits of what has been a labour of love:

“The ingredients we use, the experimentation and the love we put into our whisky, will we hope, eventually pay off. We are seeing some of our whiskies improving way beyond what we had hoped,” adds David, who is keen to point out that the distillery is very much a tribute and legacy to his late father.

THE SLOW PROCESS OF PRODUCING ARTISANAL WHISKY HAS NEVER DETERRED DAVID, WHO LOOKS TO THE FUTURE WHEN THE DISTILLERY WILL BE PRODUCING SMALL EXCLUSIVE BATCHES

“It was always a dream of ours to set up a distillery together,” recalls David, who made his first still in 2016 – the year his father died.

“He had given up drinking way before then, but we always said we would have a go at making our own whisky, so I set about making my own still,” he says, pointing to a small copper still that remains framed in a stonesurround at Backridge at Waddington, which now houses Pendle Witch Distillery.

Just a few yards away is a brand new, gleaming copper still – huge by comparison –

that today, does most of the work. Designed by David with its distinctive copper ‘witches hat’ turrets, the still processes different types of grain and water: “We source different types of barley from sustainable sources across the UK – everything we use in all the processes, from the grain, the water and the barrels, is a trade secret!”

After four days or slightly longer, the distilling process produces a ‘low wine’ the name given to what is a clear spirit after the first distillation. But, it is the next crucial step that adds the distinct whisky flavour: “Our pre-aged barrels are sourced from Scotland and the US,” explains David. “This is what we call the ‘first fill’ and it is the different types of oak and tannins in the barrel that makes a big difference to the flavour. American oak barrels that have been used for bourbon, tend to produce a sweeter flavour to the Scottish ones, which are smoother.”

YOU ONLY HAVE TO LOOK AT OTHER COUNTRIES TO SEE WHAT IS HAPPENING. WITH OUR WHISKY WE ARE PLAYING THE LONG GAME

To be officially called whisky, the spirit has to be aged in casks for at least three years and one day – a super slow-turnaround when considering the return on investment (ROI) in a business keen to flourish: “I always knew it would be a slow process,” says David, who to keep momentum going in the interim, makes Genvieve Gin along with fast-aged honey and orange ‘new make’ whisky Moonshine.

The distillery’s Backridge Genevieve Gin (made from the same first clear distillation in the whisky process) won silver at this year’s Global Gin Masters 2024 Awards: “Gin became popular in the 1600s around the time of the Pendle witch trials, so it seemed very fitting with us being Pendle Witch Distillery. We researched it very carefully and we replicated a recipe from the 16th century.

“Back then they didn’t have the capacity or knowledge to produce a truly neutral spirit so they used a whisky spirit – so we use our clear spirit from the first distillation and add the botanicals to that. It gives it a real depth of flavour.”

Again, recipes for their Genevieve gin are a closely guarded secret although it goes without saying that among the hard botanicals is juniper, while soft botanicals are citrus-based.

Returning to the subject of whisky, David

points out that while the pleasure of drinking a great artisanal whisky known no bounds, from an investment point of view it is currently racing against gold in terms of in-demand commodities: “There is a global shortage of good whisky so we are seeing a growth rate of between eight per cent and 24 per cent. Also, in terms of an investment view it’s free of Capital Gains Tax (CGT).”

The slow process of producing artisanal whisky has never deterred David, who looks to the future when the distillery will be producing small batches – each batch with a slightly different flavour: “You have to be in it for the long term and look ahead three, four, five even 10 years down the line,” concludes David, who as an accomplished

fisherman, has honed his patience on the rivers of South America and Russia.

“The distillery produces a high-end product, which might not sit well in the current economic climate but, you only have to look at other countries to see what is happening. With our whisky we are playing the long game.” n

If you would like to know more about investing in whisky, or would like a tasting tour of Pendle Witch Distillery, tours are available to book Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

pendlewitchdistillery.co.uk

AT THE HEART OF

We are beyond thrilled and proud to announce that we've been named the ‘AA Inn of the Year 2024 for Great Britain’!

A heartfelt thank you goes out to our incredible staff and customers for their unwavering support.

“As a rural business, preserving our environment, culture, and community is at the heart of everything we do. From the thoughtfully crafted food to our unique décor and the warm hospitality of our team, we are dedicated to offering an authentic and unforgettable experience to every guest.”

family, enjoying a cosy stay, or hosting an unforgettable private celebration, we’ll take care of every detail, so your Christmas sparkles.

AUTUMN IN ALL ITS GLORY

The new five-course autumn set lunch and early supper menu at the Freemasons reflects the changing seasons and features some stunning, great-value dishes, writes Kate Bowyer

Irecently caught up with Chef Matt Smith, after a busy lunchtime service at the Freemasons. The autumn lunch and early evening supper menu has just been launched with an incredible take up from both regulars and new customers, all wanting to try the dishes on offer.

THE AUTUMN MENU IS PACKED WITH THE VERY BEST OF A SEASONAL LARDER

We have touched on value for money in previous articles, but this five-course £37.50 menu is truly incredible value.

Your food experience starts with moreish hand-crafted snacks which are both tasty and light and are served alongside the Freemasons’ homemade beef fat bread and butter.

These are a superb precursor for what’s to come – the autumn menu is packed with the very best from a seasonal larder sourced both locally and using the best ingredients from other specialist suppliers, who share and understand the Freemasons’ ethos.

The choices for starter, main and desserts will give you a series of dilemmas, and the introduction of a delicious intermediary soup course is a great punctuation mark between the courses and elongates the whole gastronomic experience.

While we are emphasising the incredible value for money at £37.50, I must stress that there is no comprise on quality.

The food is served impeccably by a very energetic and knowledgeable front of house team, led by Andrew Thompson, who will be known to many readers for his friendly manner and expertise.

Both the a la carte menu and tasting menus reflect autumn and its rich bounty and the full menus are now available to view online.

We cannot forget the incredible Sunday Lunch of three courses, along with snacks and the Freemasons’ bread and butter all for £47.50 per head.

WE CAN NOT FORGET THE INCREDIBLE FREEMASONS’ SUNDAY LUNCH

With dark nights approaching, look out for their series of events including the popular ‘Tasting Tuesdays’ priced at £50 per head for seven courses. Both the website and strong social media presence will give you all the latest details. n

CELEBRATION OF AUTUMN

SET LUNCH & EARLY SUPPER MENU

THREE COURSES £37.50

Snacks

Our Bread & Butter TO START

Thirkleby Chicken

Presse of Confit Leg, Whipped Liver

Parfait, House Pickles, Piccalilli Puree, Bitter Leaves

Wild Rabbit

Slow Cooked Leg Bolognaise, Carrot Cavatelli, Pickled & Crushed Walnut, Aged Parmesan Soup

Wild Mushroom Veloute, White Balsamic Jelly, Fondue of Shorrocks

Lancashire Bomb

MAINS

Shetland Cod

Roast Loin, Sauce Vin Jauné, Lyonnaise Onions, Foraged Herbs & Flowers, Buttered New Potatoes Tamworth Pig

Grandpa Smiths Black Pudding, Maple Cured Bacon, Sticky Cheek, Fried Egg, Brown Sauce & Triple Cooked Chips

Well Aged Lancashire Beef

Peppered Steak Suet Pudding, Pickled

Red Cabbage, Red Wine Sauce, Truffled Mash Potatoes

DESSERT

Wiswell Moor Brambles

Vanilla Cheesecake, Spiced Crumb, Apple Sorbet, Apple Marigold, Crushed Meringue

Michel Cluizel Chocolate

Set Mousse, PX Soaked Raisins, Pear Sorbet, Hazelnut Diplomat Cheese

Selection of British Cheeses and Biscuits

(£7.95 Supplement)

Wednesday to Saturday

Lunch: 12 noon - 2pm

Dinner: 5.30pm - 7pm

FREEM ASONS AT WISWELL

Freemasons at Wiswell

8 Vicarage Fold

Wiswell BB7 9DF 01254 822218

freemasonsatwiswell.com

freemasonsatwiswell

The full Christmas programme and packages are also now available online.

“It’s

FREEMASONS FESTIVE MENU

2nd – 22nd December 6 COURSE MENU £47.50

Croquette

Yakatori Pigs in Blankets –

Chicken Fat Cruffin & Broth

TO START

Creedy Carver Duck

Duck Leg Presse, Heritage Beetroot, Pickled Walnut Ketchup, Bitter Leaves

Fishcake

Panko Crumbed, Brown Crab Hollandaise, Caper & Raisin Puree, Fried Hen’s Egg,

SOUP

Veloute of Woodland Mushroom, Fondue of Shorrocks Bomb

MAINS

Bronze Turkey

Pithivier, Pork & Sage Stuffing, Heritage Carrot, Roasting Juices, Clotted Cream Potatoes, Fermented Apple Ketchup

Shetland Cod

Roast Loin, Tenderstem Broccoli, Brown Butter, Sea Herbs, Buttered New Potatoes

Oxtail & Beef Cheek

freemasonsatwiswell.com

The full festive programme is now available online.

Freemasons at Wiswell 8 Vicarage Fold, Wiswell, Nr Clitheroe, Lancashire, BB7 9DF 01254 822218 enquiries@freemasonswiswell.co.uk freemasonsatwiswell.com

Slow Cooked Steamed Suet Pudding, Pickled Red Cabbage, Red Wine Sauce, Triple Cooked Chips

DESSERT

Jamaican Ginger

Sticky Pudding, Miso Caramel Sauce, Clotted Cream Ice Cream

Tropical Fruit

Pavlova, Tropical Fruit Sorbet, Almond Sable, Coconut Cream

Cheese

Selection of Four Local Cheeses with Biscuits (£5.95 Supplement)

TREATS

Mini Mince Pie

PUMPKIN SOUP

Enjoy this spooky, spicy pumpkin soup – a hearty, warming dish for Halloween!

Here’s a Halloween-inspired pumpkin soup recipe that’s perfect for the spooky season.

Ingredients:

1 medium pumpkin (about three to four pounds), peeled, deseeded, and cubed

1 large carrot, peeled and chopped

1 onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp olive oil

4 cups vegetable broth

1 cup coconut milk (for creaminess)

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

1/2 tsp ground ginger

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

(optional for a spooky, smoky flavour)

Salt and pepper to taste

Pumpkin seeds (for garnish)

A dollop of sour cream or yogurt (optional)

Black sesame seeds

INSTRUCTIONS:

Prepare the pumpkin:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the pumpkin cubes and carrots with 1 tbsp of olive oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender and slightly caramelised. Cook the aromatics:

In a large pot, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant for about five minutes.

Simmer:

Once the pumpkin is roasted, add it to the pot with the onions and garlic. Pour in the vegetable broth and smoked paprika. Bring the soup to a simmer, cover and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavours to meld.

Blend:

Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup in batches to a blender, and blend until smooth and creamy. Stir in the coconut milk for added creaminess.

Garnish:

Serve the soup hot, garnished with roasted pumpkin seeds, a swirl of sour cream or yogurt and a sprinkle of black sesame seeds for a spooky Halloween look.

Tips:

You can carve a small pumpkin face into mini hollowed pumpkins and use them as serving bowls for extra festive vibes!

Add a dash of cayenne if you like your soup a little spicier.

Enjoy this warm, comforting and slightly spooky dish! n

A TOUCH OF CULINARY MAGIC

CDJ Riverside in Lower Darwen wishes to invite readers of Live Ribble Valley to take the short trip across the county and visit the area’s newest and finest restaurant and bar, writes Gail Bailey

‘Incredible food’, ‘Darwen’s finest’, ‘big city food in a small town’ and ‘outstanding’ are just some of the comments from customers describing their experience at Darwen’s newest and most exciting restaurant and bar, CDJ Riverside.

Originally the Swan pub, the building that now houses CDJ Riverside has been a beloved destination for locals and Blackburn Rovers’ fans for many years and was often referred to as ‘Uncle Jacks’.

Project Manager Erin Kelly explains: “The offices of Red Rose Holdings overlook the building that is now CDJ Riverside and just before Covid arrived owners Mark Holden and Michael Anderson noticed it was beginning to fall into disarray. Recognising it could be the hub of Lower Darwen and already owning

a nursery next door, Mark and Michael decided to invest in the property and invited talented chef Dan Jolley who already had a restaurant in the town, to join them.”

WALK BY THE RIVER FESTOONED WITH LIGHTS AND JOIN US TO SAMPLE OUR WONDERFUL CDJ RESTAURANT AND BAR – YOU WON’T BE DISAPPOINTED!

It was important to preserve the building’s historic roots and the interior of CDJ Riverside’s interior blends this with a modern Mediterranean design: “We have preserved many of the original exterior elements, such

as the large windows and the meticulous stone and brickwork. Ensuring the space created an authentic charm was central to the refurbishment,” adds Erin.

Taking centre stage is the magnificent dining bar – a striking feature that is a combination of luxury and functionality. Enhanced with natural stone, the bar serves as a focal point, creating an inviting atmosphere for memorable dining experiences. Both Mark and Michael spend time in Majorca, and this is mirrored in the wonderful orange, yellow and green tones and the airy Mediterranean design that feels so warm and inviting.

The Mediterranean vibe is a further reflection of chef and co-owner Dan’s extensive experience in some of the finest restaurants across Europe as well as the UK. Starting his career at Michelin-starred Northcote as an apprentice, Dan won Young Chef of the Year in 2007. Moving on to work in high end

restaurants in Mayfair London and then across the waters to hold positions in both Paris and Denmark, Dan’s career has been an incredible culinary journey. On returning to the UK, he became Head Chef at the awardwinning hotel Linthwaite House in the Lake District. After three years in this prestigious role Dan landed his dream job at Liverpool FC and became Stadium Chef of the Year in 2018. It was this tenure that cemented both Dan’s reputation and his expertise in creating fresh food that is healthy, nutritious and of the very highest standard.

THIS PLACE IS SOMETHING VERY SPECIAL! STAFF, FOOD, ATMOSPHERE –EVERYTHING WAS PERFECT!

Erin says: “Chef Dan founded his own CDJ brand offering gourmet meals focused on nutrition and wellness, ensuring that they marry exquisite flavours with a commitment to healthy living. We feel very lucky to be working with him!”

It is not only the food that is well worth visiting for – the bar is also the perfect spot for sipping and socialising. With a commitment towards fine ales and exceptional wines CDJ

brings a fresh twist to classic favourites, served in style and often accompanied by live music and talented DJs.

“Our drink selection is extensive and suits everyone, whether you prefer your drink straight or in a special cocktail mixed by our skilled bartenders, and on November 6th in collaboration with Whalley Wines we will be hosting CDJ’s Mediterranean Cruise –an indulgent evening of food, wines and live music where guests will be expertly guided through wonderful food and wine pairings.

So why not heighten your next visit to

CDJ RIVERSIDE

MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE! 6th November

In collaboration with Whalley Wines, CDJ will be hosting an indulgent evening of food, wines and live music where guests will be expertly guided through wonderful food and wine pairings. 01254 801691

Ewood Park with a pre-match offer or simply take a trip to this upcoming town and wonderful venue: “Walk by the river festooned with lights and join us to sample our wonderful CDJ restaurant and bar – you won’t be disappointed!” adds Erin.

One recent customer feedback sums CDJ up perfectly: “This place is something very special! Staff, food, atmosphere –everything was perfect. The food itself is a work of art and cooked to perfection. Can’t wait to visit again!” n

CDJ Riverside

Lower Darwen, Darwen BB3 0PQ 01254 801691

info@cdj-riverside.co.uk

cdj-riverside.co.uk

cocktail, this with locally sourced crayfish, which looked amazing on the plate, and was zingy in the mouth and generous in portion. The soup was warming and spicy, effusing just the right amount of onion flavour, with fresh gluten free bread being particularly well received.

My steak and ale pie was filled with succulent meat in a tasty ale suffused

INN’S KNOCKOUT FARE

Mouthwatering goodies are served up in a former gamekeeper’s cottage turned pub and hotel. Mark and Jo Dixon sampled lunch at The Gamekeeper’s Inn

Drive down the tree-lined avenue into one of Wharfedale’s many Arcadia – otherwise known as Long Ashes Park – a skip and a hop from Grassington on the road towards Kettlewell. Pass the rustic lodges and you’ll find the aptly named Gamekeeper’s Inn, you guessed it, formerly a gamekeeper’s cottage.

Now transformed into a modern and comfortable venue it offers guests cosy corners, the best local ales and hearty homemade food, with produce locally sourced and prepared fresh in the kitchen by the talented team of chefs. This team is led by Chris Griffiths, only in situ for a few months and already making positive waves. Chris is a local lad hailing from Hetton. His culinary journey started as a 14-year-old in The Angel, working for Pascal and Bruce there before spreading his wings. He seems genuinely thrilled at finding an establishment in the Dales that matches his enthusiasm and dedication to the task in hand.

As well as the lunchtime menu, which we so enjoyed, there are numerous other options ranging from traditional Sunday lunch to different themed evenings including Tapas, Steaks, Curry and Chinese. Perhaps the piece de resistance is a grand

alternative afternoon tea (order 24 hours ahead) which contains such mouthwatering goodies as mini chicken pie with garlic mayo and pork, chorizo and apple sausage roll followed by macerated strawberry and

A FRIENDLY WELCOME IN THE PRETTY CONSERVATORY WAS FOLLOWED BY RELIABLY SPEEDY SERVICE. OUR STARTERS WERE KNOCKOUT

Chantilly mille-feuille and sticky toffee bite with toffee sauce and honeycomb.

But back to our lunch. A friendly welcome in the pretty conservatory was followed by reliably speedy service. Our starters were knockout. A twist on a classic prawn

sauce, and the mushy peas and gravy were the comfort I was looking for. Her vegan asparagus, green bean and pea risotto was interesting and filling, requiring a doggybag to take home for supper. We had no room for the yummy sounding desserts or even coffees. The Gamekeeper’s had certainly kept its promises.

If you’re planning on coming from further afield, The Gamekeeper’s is home to 11 en suite bedrooms, and the Netherside Suite, an ideal wedding and event venue. Within Long Ashes Park, you’ll also find four self-catering lodges, five glamping pods and a countryside barn available to book for holidays. All guests can enjoy complimentary use of the Leisure Club facilities including swimming pool, sauna, steam room, gym and jacuzzi. n

Gamekeeper’s Inn

BRIGHTEST LIGHTS

Showbiz kicks up a notch as the key autumn-winter season gets underway in the run-up to Christmas. Bridget Rowan looks at a choice selection of what’s on offer

From family fun and one-night shows to adult humour, tribute acts and some of the hottest sounds around.

Whatever floats your boat Lancashire theatres have it nailed. Classic ballets, fabulous shows and magical treats for the kids top the autumn and winter bills, so make merry in the run-up to the annual funfest that is Christmas with a chocolate-box selection from theatres across the region.

As the anticipation starts to ramp up and the excitement rises, where would we be without that festive perennial, the panto? There are several to choose from with virtually every theatre in the county staging at least one family show.

Grade II-listed former Victorian cinema The Grand in Clitheroe has a couple coming up, starting with its annual rock’n’roll pantomime. Music and dance extravaganza Puss in Boots of Clitheroe Castle sees the

canny cat outwitting villains and solving mysteries to save Christmas. And in a modern take on a classic tale, Saltmine: Red Riding Hood sees our heroine confronting her fears in the deep dark forest.

Heartwarming musical Annie is on at the Mechanics Theatre in Burnley followed by Peter Pan the Panto in January. Join the Milkshake! train at King George’s Hall, Blackburn to meet all the kids’ TV favourites, including Chase and Marshall, Pip and Posy and Blue in Milkshake! Live On Holiday, or have a ball with Cinders and Prince Charming in the magical fantasy Cinderella. Then it’s ruby slippers at the ready for a trip down the yellow brick road with Dorothy, Lion, Tinman and Scarecrow when The Wizard Of

Oz takes to Colne’s Muni Theatre stage and Blackburn Empire Theatre. January sees the magical Sleeping Beauty, complete with dragon, the evil fairy Carabosse and the awesome power of true love, at the Muni. Meanwhile, Giant Blunderbore is on the prowl at the Empire where much-loved family classic Jack and the Beanstalk is set for an extended run.

The Dukes in Lancaster is renowned for its productions, and the latest offering looks set to be another winner. The Borrowers, with a script by award-winning playwright Bea Roberts, is based on Mary Norton’s muchloved children’s tales about tiny people who live under the floorboards. Arriety and her family make good use of the things they find in an empty house, but their peaceful existence is about to be threatened when those pesky humans move in.

Meanwhile, in Blackpool, Coronation Street and Emmerdale actress Hayley Tamaddon and comedian Steve Royle are among the stars of Cinderella at the Grade ll-listed Grand Theatre.

If your fancy is for more adult-oriented entertainment try King George’s Hall where Paddy McGuinness’s Nearly There, Rhod Gilbert and the Giant Grapefruit, Jimmy Carr Laughs Funny and Jason Manford is A Manford All Seasons will have you rolling in the aisles. As The Scummy Mummies

celebrate 10 years in the business, they bring their offbeat humour and greatest hits to the Empire in November.

At the heart of Burnley’s cultural scene is The Mechanics, which opened as a theatre in 1979. You can get your humour there American-style with Rich Hall: Shot From Cannons, or for home-grown fun, head to Colne’s Edwardian Muni for an evening with Edinburgh Fringe sensation Ed Byrne.

WHATEVER FLOATS YOUR BOAT LANCASHIRE THEATRES HAVE IT NAILED

Music lovers can catch up with 70s hitmakers Showaddywaddy on their 50th anniversary tour, West End and Broadway star Kerry Ellis at the Mechanics, the Swing Commanders and folk-punk fusion Ferocious Dog at The Grand in Clitheroe or let the Muni light up Christmas with The Dreamcoat Stars, from hit West End show Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.

UK superband Toploader will also be appearing live at the Grand, Clitheroe, in December. Catch The Lancashire Hotpots Too Much Too Old Tour at King George’s Hall or join Sleeper Unplugged there for a rare acoustic show from the Britpop legends.

There’s also an evening to be spent with Rovers Legends, escape to the chateau with Dick and Angel, or be swept away on a tide of music and romance with the Imperial Classical Ballet’s enchanting production of Swan Lake, all at King George’s Hall. Or join Ballet Theatre UK as it brings Tchaikovsky masterpiece The Nutcracker to life at the Mechanics. n

KING GEORGE’S HALL, BLACKBURN 01254 582579 bwdvenues.com

THE MUNI THEATRE, COLNE 01282 661234 themuni.co.uk

THE DUKES, LANCASTER 01524 598500

dukeslancaster.org

BLACKBURN EMPIRE THEATRE 01254 685500

blackburnempire.com

MECHANICS THEATRE, BURNLEY 01282 664400

burnleymechanics.co.uk

THE GRAND, CLITHEROE 01200 421599

thegrandvenue.co.uk

BLACKPOOL GRAND THEATRE 01253 290190 blackpoolgrand.co.uk

GYPSY JAZZ WITH A TWIST

Klezmer-ish is set to bring their dynamic musical trademark twist to Clitheroe

Clitheroe Concerts Society presents Klezmer-ish, four incredibly outward-looking classically trained musicians who met whilst playing with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra.

From rip-roaring klezmer and dynamic tango to their self-penned gypsy jazz, Klezmer-ish bring a trademark twist to whatever genre takes their fancy.

Drawing inspiration from the music of bygone travellers, Klezmer-ish take their audience on a seamless musical journey that is always on the move.

A review in The Times said about

Klezmer-ish: “This homemade stew is a spicy artisan product with not a trace of artificial additive.”

Becoming a member of Clitheroe Concerts Society has added benefits – members get six concerts for £90 giving a saving of £30 on individual concert prices. Young people under the age of 18 and accompanied by a member or a paying adult, are free of charge.

In addition, each member would be entitled to bring a guest to a single concert for free to encourage new members. For more information go to the Clitheroe Concerts website. n

The Klezmer-ish concert will be held on Wednesday 2nd October at 7.30pm at Trinity Community Hub, Parson Lane, Clitheroe BB7 2JY.

Tickets £20 are available at the door, or online from: clitheroeconcerts.org

klezmerish.com

Creativity knows no bounds…

Artist Nick Dittrich creates original artworks using a variety of mediums (acrylic, charcoal, graphite, pastel and chalk) or anything else –object trouvé, bottle tops, purchase receipts and micro shredded banknotes.

To purchase, or to commission an artwork call: 01279 861863 / 07909 850462

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.”

email: endartistuk @ gmail.com To view his gallery visit: www.endarts.co.uk

GOOD READ

Lauren Molyneux reviews a modern tale featuring two friends who come together as creative partners in the world of video game design

TOMORROW AND TOMORROW AND TOMORROW

Gabrielle Zevin

Gabrielle Zevin’s Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow has been lauded as one of the best books to hit the shelves in recent years. With a narrative built around two young friends in love (but never lovers) who get famous over a video game that they co-create, it’s a sort of cross between One Day (David Nicholls) and Ready Player One (Ernest Cline) but is neither so romantically character-driven nor so rich with gameplay and interwoven narrative to align fully with either camp. The result is a book that, whilst promising as a concept, fails to hit the brief for either genre and sadly falls short of being something really special. The true tragedy comes with the novel’s opening, which is beautifully crafted, filled with intrigue, and is probably the only part of the book that lives up to the hype. If only the rest of the book had kept up with the first 100 pages, this would be an easy five stars. One typically cold day in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Sam leaves his subway car and sees his childhood friend Sadie standing among the hundreds of busy commuters on the platform. Having lost contact for a number of years, he hesitates to call her name but when she hears it, she hesitates to turn around. But fate intervenes, and the two get to talking — Sadie hands Sam a copy of her latest game before she leaves.

Hopping through various key points in time, we learn about the events that brought the pair of unlikely friends together — the road traffic accident that led to Sam’s long stay in hospital as a child (and his subsequent disability), Sadie’s visits to see her sister battling a long-term illness, the bond that was created over a shared game of Super Mario Bros on the hospital’s Nintendo. We see years pass and the friends drift apart, before their shared narrative is picked back up when they decide to make a game together following their chance encounter on the subway platform. Their first game, Ichigo, bonds them for life and launches them to international success.

And this is about the point where things start to head south. Once Sam and Sadie set up their own company and a band of peripheral characters are introduced, the focus of the narrative and the key point of interest – their relationship – is diluted. It would be forgivable if the focus became more about the games, which it doesn’t, or if the story set off down an unexpected track that was entirely unpredictable, which it doesn’t. Key plot points can be predicted 150 pages before they happen, and overall, it just lacks that bit of oomph.

At points, it seems almost as though the first 100 pages and the final 300 plus have been curated by entirely different writers. As the narrative progresses, the writing becomes sloppy. While in places the dialogue flows as though the characters are in the room with you, in others, it’s so forced it breaks the illusion of the story and brings you tumbling back to reality, wondering who actually speaks like that. The writer also develops a bizarre habit of crowbarring in words that not only disrupt the flow of sentences, but actively alienate readers, and for no other purpose than, assumedly, so she can sound like a writer. This is especially at odds with the themes of inclusivity and accessibility that run throughout — perhaps as the only form of consistency. Overall, at the novel’s end (which took great effort to reach) I was met with an overwhelming feeling of disappointment. I reflected on the reviews pasted all over the cover and wondered what I had missed. I feel a bit for John Green (The Fault in Our Stars, Paper Towns) whose quote claimed: “One of the best books [he’s] ever read”. I even flipped back to the beginning to see if I’d brought my own unrealistic expectations to this – but no, the opening really is that good. It’s a shame, and it’s almost baffling, that the latter two-thirds could take such a swift and dramatic turn towards becoming unreadable. n

Longridge Gallery is excited to unveil a selection of new pieces arriving in the Gallery in October.

Nick Potter’s “Croft on the Loch” shows his love of wild landscapes and seascapes, alongside his concerns in respect of the pressures upon them in today’s environmentally unfriendly world.

Joe Gallindo’s use of powerful contemporary colours is abstractly incorporated with details of wild animals in a loose, energetic style, which combine for an unusual but satisfying end product. This can be clearly seen through the depth and contrast in “Apollo”.

Fleetwood, who is known for his fearless use of colour and extreme attention to detail, is back with “Series Two”. Combining iconic cars with an urban contemporary edge, results in pieces which are at once eye- catching and exceptionally skilled in their execution.

Following a fantastic showcase of Andrei Protsouk’s work earlier in the year, the Gallery is proud to be displaying more of his original and limited-edition pieces, including “Walking Jeffrey”.

To view these or any other available pieces please call into the Gallery on Berry Lane or visit our website and social media channels.

Original Paintings . Signed Limited Editions . Sculptures . Needleworks . Restoration . Art Framing . Shirt Framing . Canvas Stretching

78 Berry Lane, Longridge, Preston, PR3 3WH 01772 782006 www.longridgegallery.co.uk info@longridgegallery.co.uk @longridgegall /Longridge-Gallery @longridgegallery

‘WALKING JEFFERY’ Andrei Protsouk

‘CROFT ON THE LOCH’ Nick Potter

‘SERIES TWO’ Fleetwood

‘APOLLO’ Joe Gallindo

Rimington, Clitheroe

Asking Price £2,850,000

Mellor Brow, Blackburn

Offers Over £699,950

A truly magnificent architect-designed family home of over 6,500 sq ft with panoramic long-distance views out towards Yorkshire’s Three Peaks at the edge of the charming village of Rimington.

Approached via a private lane, the property is set over three storeys, with six bedrooms, numerous entertainment rooms and impressive and beautifully-finished internal spaces expected of a property of this calibre. A separate one-bedroom annex can be accessed both internally and from the outside.

An incredible home positioned in the heart of this popular village. This impressive house is steeped with period features and has some of the most generous accommodation we’ve seen! Imagine yourself welcoming guests into this stately entrance hall with spacious lounge and open plan dining-kitchen. Of similar proportions is the principal bedroom – one of four bedrooms and a space to behold! An orangery provides a light and airy space in which to relax.

Clitheroe Rd, Longridge

Offers over £1,000,000

Catlow Rd, Slaidburn

OIRO £800,000

Located in one of the best elevated positions we know, this property has some of the best views across the Ribble Valley!

A fabulous, four-bedroom stone-built conversion, just made for entertaining indoors and outdoors, offering beautiful accommodation and space for all the family within one acre of land.

Offering great development potential in a stunning rural location is this farmhouse with three detached traditional stone barns, formal gardens and one acre land.

With planning consent granted allowing for conversion of the buildings to create four new dwellings, this is the perfect opportunity to create a superb home with multiple opportunities set within a traditional cobblestone yard.

TRADITION MEETS CONTEMPORARY

Planning has been granted for a new open plan kitchen and living space along with a barn conversion located in one of the prettiest settings in the Ribble Valley

We are delighted to announce planning has been achieved for a contemporary extension and barn conversion in Stonyhurst, Hurst Green.

The site is located adjacent to Cromwell’s Bridge in an area of Open Countryside, and adjacent to the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The property is considered a Non-Designated Heritage Asset, therefore careful consideration was required to ensure the design maintains the existing characteristics of the property.

The clients wanted to create a contemporary open plan living space to enjoy views of the River Hodder and convert their existing barn into additional accommodation for them to enjoy.

The existing property has a traditional character and sits within one of the most picturesque settings across the Ribble Valley.

The house has a symmetrical, stone frontage with the River Hodder at the bottom of the garden. The barn remains in its original form with all original openings, timber trusses and arrow slot windows at first floor level.

Like many properties which require modernisation, there was no open plan kitchen dining living space, and the functionality of the internal layout required improving. Having a dog and living in the Ribble Valley –a practical entrance / boot room is a must. At present there is no rear entrance, so the clients enter directly into the kitchen after dog walks.

The new layout incorporates a concealed rear entrance with hidden storage and dog shower with ease of access from the driveway.

An open plan kitchen dining living space has also been created across the full width of the rear elevation and wrapping round to the side. Floor to ceiling glazing allows uninterrupted views of the river, garden, barn and a large mature tree – a key focal point of the garden.

The barn has remained unaltered for many years and has therefore retained its original features and character. The clients now wish to improve their existing property, utilise their derelict barn and futureproof their home. The barn incorporates guest accommodation, a gym, home office and external first floor balcony overlooking the river.

The original barn had a single-storey lean-to at the rear which is now in a ruinous state with no roof. The design incorporates a ghost-like structure allowing the ruin to remain legible with glazing filling the voids. A contemporary flat roof continues the architectural language of the house extension across to the barn, whilst introducing a unique first floor balcony for guests and entertaining.

The proposal will improve the way they live and how they use their house and garden, whilst creating a more efficient ground floor layout, and additional living accommodation in the barn.

The proposal creates a contemporary, highly glazed open plan kitchen dining living space with views across the river, creates a new rear entrance and converts the barn into a unique home office, gym and guest suite. n

If you have a traditional home which you want to improve for contemporary living, get in touch with your site address and we will take it from there.

ZMA

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

Thursday 3rd October

Evening 5pm - 8pm

Saturday 5th October

Morning 10am - 1pm

Wednesday 9th October

Thursday 12th December including Assessment Day Scholarship and bursary awards available

Friday 1st November

Family tickets available including supper

Saturday 30th November 11am - 4pm

Stalls, activities and Santa’s Grotto Free Entry

01254

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