Live Ribble Valley Issue 154 January /February 2025

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 EPIC STORY OF SURVIVAL

A new documentary film has recently been launched following the discovery of Ernest Shackleton’s ship the Endurance. What is not widely known, is that the ship’s doctor, lived in Whalley.

52 WRAP UP IN BRITISH TEXTILE HISTORY

In a unique collaboration, shoemaker LANX is working with a Lancashire mill to produce beautiful woollen scarves.

130 FINDING THE EDGE

Cricket sensation Jimmy Anderson’s new autobiography delves into what made him England’s highest Test wicket-taker of all time.

132 IN THE RAW

We talk to Emma Robinson, whose family have been farming in the Ribble Valley for generations, about the nutritional advantages of raw milk.

156 DEFYING THE ODDS

In a sometimes dark account of his nearfatal illness, local author Pete Mackenzie Hodge’s new book Delirium Diaries is also a joyous tale of love and survival.

DISCOVER YOUR NEXT PORSCHE AT OUR CENTRES IN BOLTON AND PRESTON.

When visiting one of our Centres, you will experience a stunning display of new and Porsche Approved Pre-Owned models. Enjoy a barista-style coffee while you browse our Porsche Tequipment and Lifestyle accessories. Or discuss our award-winning service and finance packages that will bring even the most sought-after models within reach. Whatever your reason for visiting us, you will always receive a warm welcome. Scan the code to learn more.

Porsche

Bolton BL3 2RJ 01204 559 911 info@porschebolton.co.uk www.porschebolton.co.uk

Porsche Centre Preston Watery Lane

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LIVE MAGAZINES

Chairman: Simon Smith

Managing Director: Tedd Walmsley

Company Secretary: Elizabeth Walmsley

Editor: Jan Woolley

Graphic Designers: Nick Dittrich and Rob Walmsley

Operations Manager: Kate Hyde

Production Manager: James Britton

Sales Account Manager: Jane Hughes 07875 696 928

Photography: Robin Lyndon and Kirsten Platt

Editorial contributors: Paul Agnew, Gail Bailey, Kate Bowyer, Megan Conlon, Katie Hammond, Dan Hyams, Kate Hyde, Meena McDonald, Lauren Molyneux, Lynn Scholes, Keli Thompson, Jenni Walmsley, Robert Walmsley, Liz Walmsley, Tedd Walmsley and Carol Wilson

Live Magazines Limited Office 9, The Old Bakery Green Street Lytham FY8 5LG

T: 01772 319 465 info@live-magazines.co.uk www.live-magazines.co.uk

LIVE RIBBLE VALLEY magazine is hand delivered to selected households and businesses in Balderstone, Barrow, Barrowford, Bashall Eaves, Bolton by Bowland, Brockhall Village, Broughton, Chaigley, Chatburn, Chipping, Clitheroe, Copster Green, Dinckley, Downham, Dutton, Fence, Gisburn, Goosnargh, Grimsargh, Grindleton, Higham, Holden, Horton in Craven, Hothersall, Hurst Green, Knowle Green, Langho and Billington, Longridge, Mellor, Osbaldeston, Pendleton, Pleasington, Read, Ribchester, Rimington, Rivington, Sabden, Salesbury, Samlesbury, Sawley, Simonstone, Twiston, Waddington, West Bradford, Whalley, Whittingham, Wilpshire, Wiswell, Worston.

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Magazines

Editor

Well, where did that year go? Everyone I speak to seems to be flabbergasted at how quickly 2024 has flown by!

I suppose we all tend to live busier lives now, there’s always somewhere to go, something to do and someone to see. Personally, I’ve met some great people during the past 12 months. Through the magazine, I was introduced to pickleball and what a fantastic, fun sport it is! Pickleball players are an amazing community of lovely people – always happy to help, offer advice and welcome you into their pickleball world!

Through tennis, I have been introduced to padel and how lucky we are to have an amazing padel facility at Ribble Valley Tennis Centre. Padel has been all the rage this year, especially in London and Manchester, where the padel culture has really taken off.

We are so fortunate to live in a rural area that is so reactive to national trends, whether that’s in the world of sport, science, art, craft, culture or gastronomy – and this is reflected in our first issue of 2025.

We meet artists, authors, nutritionists and businesspeople – plus world-renowned cricketer Jimmy Anderson – all passionate about what they do.

Nearing the end of 2024, I received an email that turned out to be the framework of a fascinating story that we have all probably heard about, but not in present-day detail. Explorer Ernest Shackleton set sail in his ship Endurance, heading for Antarctica, in 1914. Among his crew was the ship’s doctor Alexander Macklin, who lived in Whalley. A new documentary film has just been released about the discovery of the wreck of the Endurance under the ice, where it sank during the fateful expedition. It is an amazing story – and with Ribble Valley connections.

I hope you enjoy this issue of Live Ribble Valley and on behalf of the team here, we wish you a happy, peaceful and prosperous New Year!

Jan Woolley Editor

EPIC STORY OF SURVIVAL

While Ernest Shackleton’s fateful Antarctic expedition is legendary, it is not widely known that one of the Endurance crew, the ship’s doctor, lived in Whalley, writes Jan Woolley

Acentury after polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton’s ship Endurance sank beneath the ice, a new documentary film has been released charting the discovery of the shipwreck.

Shackleton’s leadership and perseverance is well documented – he kept his crew of 27 men alive for more than a year, despite the loss of the ship and living in sub-zero conditions. Among those men, was the ship’s doctor Alexander Macklin, who lived in Whalley in the Ribble Valley.

ENDURANCE, from National Geographic Documentary Films, follows a team of modern-day explorers, archaeologists and scientists who set out on the SA Agulhas II, a polar research vessel, in order find Shackleton’s sunken wooden ship more than 3,000m under the ice. The team on the

award-winning Endurance22 Expedition, which was organised and funded by the Falklands Maritime Heritage Trust, used Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) in their quest to find the shipwreck, which they did in March 2022, when they used laser scanners on the AUVs to produce a 3D model and images of the wreck and its debris field.

Expedition leader Dr John Shears described the moment the submersible’s cameras first

landed on the ship’s brass stern plate as ‘jaw dropping’.

Directed by Chai Vasarhelyi, Jimmy Chin and Natalie Hewit, ENDURANCE tells the inspirational story behind Shackleton’s landmark expedition and also tracks the present-day explorers in their amazing quest.

In the film, commentator Dan Snow, who was on board the Agulhas II, says: “We are still talking about Shackleton. It is the greatest tale of survival in history.”

SHACKLETON KEPT

HIS CREW ALIVE FOR MORE THAN A YEAR DESPITE THE LOSS OF THEIR SHIP –AMONG THE SURVIVORS WAS THE SHIP’S DOCTOR

The documentary includes unique footage of Shackleton and his men, including Macklin, on their doomed expedition.

Macklin, who lived in King Street, Whalley, was born in India where his father was a doctor and when the family moved to England, his father set up practice at The Croft.

Young Macklin became an enthusiastic and proficient boat handler, attending Plymouth College and after a short period as a deckhand, he attended university in Manchester where he qualified as a doctor and went on to work at Blackburn Hospital.

Soon after, he heard about Shackleton’s

Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition and was invited on the expedition as one of the ship’s two surgeons.

In 1914, the Endurance set sail for Buenos Aires and from there proceeded to South Georgia where a whaling station team warned Shackleton against going any further due to perilous conditions.

Forever the optimist, Shackleton continued in his quest and the Endurance reached the Weddell Sea, one the harshest and most treacherous environments in the world, in October 1915: “The crew had to cut their way through the ice. The ship went for miles, going slower and slower, in the middle of nowhere – then they realised the Endurance was being crushed,” explains Whalley historian Jean Lord.

The Endurance became trapped forcing Shackleton and his men to abandon ship with provisions, lifeboats and the 100 sledge dogs that had been on board. They set up camp on the ice which over time, had lifted the ship out of the sea and as the seasons

EXPEDITION LEADER

DR JOHN SHEARS DESCRIBED THE MOMENT THE SUBMERSIBLE’S CAMERAS FIRST LANDED ON THE SHIP’S BRASS STERN PLATE AS ‘JAW DROPPING’

changed and the ice began to break up, the ship crashed down, sinking into the freezing water.

Having saved what they could from the Endurance, the crew put the dogs into action –Macklin who had been assigned a team of sledge dogs, was able to bring back seals that

had been shot for food and he also returned to the base camp, established where the ship had sunk, to recover more supplies.

After camping, trekking and sledging for more than five months, taking as many provisions as they could carry, the crew reached open water and sailed in lifeboats to Elephant Island where they again set up camp.

Meanwhile, Shackleton and four men took one of the lifeboats in a bid to find help in South Georgia: “They had to leave as no one was going to come and find them. You can’t imagine how they must have felt. The men were starving, they had to do something

so they had to strike out and try to find the whaling station.”

Shackleton had estimated that it would take him 18 days to reach South Georgia in order to return to rescue his men. But the journey was to take them four-and-a-half months.

When he and his team landed, they were faced with huge, mountainous crags to navigate: “They ascended numerous times but each time they were forced back due to perilous drops.” explains Jean.

“Shackleton finally told the men they were going to sledge down – there was no other way.”

With Shackleton at the front of the sledge, the men took off into the unknown and after a fearsome ride down the craggy, icy slopes, they landed in a bank of snow and, in the silence that followed, they could hear the whistles of the whaling station.

Keen to rescue his men back on Elephant Island, Shackleton commissioned a Chilean ship and set sail. On his approach to the

island, through binoculars he began to count the men, including Macklin, that he could see frantically waving on the coastline. He rescued them all. Later in a letter to his wife Shackleton wrote, ‘Not a life lost and we have been through hell’.

When Shackleton and his crew returned to the UK the Great War was still ongoing and many of them joined the war effort including Macklin, who joined the Royal Army Medical Corps, serving in France, Russia and Italy.

MACKLIN WAS WITH SHACKLETON WHEN HE DIED ON BOARD THE QUEST

In 1918 Macklin was awarded the Military Cross for bravery, tending the wounded under fire. The previous year he had been awarded the Polar Medal.

In 1921 Shackleton invited Macklin along with some of the original Endurance crew members to join him on the ShackletonRowett Expedition – a challenge which Macklin accepted. In 1922 on board the Quest, they headed once again for South Georgia.

However, during the voyage Shackleton was troubled with heart pain and when the ship landed in South Georgia, he went on to have a fatal heart attack.

As the Quest’s doctor, Macklin was with Shackleton when he died.

On his return to the UK, Macklin set up

a medical practice and in WWII served in the Army Medical Corps in East Africa as a Lieutenant Colonel receiving Territorial Decoration and went on to be awarded the OBE. His brother was also awarded the Military Cross and another brother features on Whalley’s war memorial.

Alexander Macklin died in March 1967.

“What a life he had!” adds Jean, who recently approached Ribble Valley Borough Council, asking if they would name a street in Whalley after Macklin.

“We have managed to get a blue plaque put on the gates of The Croft but it would be nice to get Macklin properly recognised. Other Endurance crew members have been recognised in their respective towns and cities with plaques and statues, but RVBC say it is not their policy to name streets after people.” n

ENDURANCE

National Geographic Documentary Films is available to stream on Disney+

A Contemporary Twist on a Kitchen for a Yorkshire Barn Conversion

When most people imagine a kitchen for a barn conversion, they tend to picture a traditional, country-style space filled with warm tones and rustic charm. But Simon Thomas, Showroom Manager at Kitchen Design Centre Barrowford, had a different vision when tasked with creating a new kitchen for Hayley and Michael in their Yorkshire home.

Rejecting the typical country kitchen aesthetic, Simon opted for a fresh, contemporary approach. He made the most of the available space by incorporating a large island and a spacious pantry cupboard, which helps keep appliances and food items neatly out of sight.

A standout feature of the new kitchen is the walk-in larder, utility, and drinks room, tucked behind a sliding glass door. This clever design allows the space to be seamlessly integrated into the kitchen or closed off for privacy, depending on the occasion.

Other thoughtful details include floating illuminated shelves and a double Belfast sink paired with a Quooker tap—another perfect blend of traditional charm and contemporary style.

Hayley and Michael are delighted with the finished kitchen and with Simon and the Kitchen Design Centre team, “we couldn’t be happier with the results! From start to finish, the process was seamless, and every expectation was not only met but exceeded. Simon was incredibly helpful and insightful. The transformation is remarkable. The quality of the materials and the attention to detail from the fitting team was outstanding. Thank you, Kitchen Design Centre, for giving us a kitchen we absolutely love!”

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

“It was a pleasure collaborating with Hayley and Michael. We made a great team, and I was thrilled by how open they were to my ideas. They were eager to embrace a bold twist rather than sticking to tradition. The final result is amazing, and I’m particularly proud of the separate drinks area and the pantry cupboard we created.”

Designer Simon Thomas says,

LAMPE

Loom

Barrow

APRÉS SKI ART

Ski Haus by Todd White, Limited Edition Print £1695

Piste Stop by Casimiro Perez, Original Painting

ULTIMATE UPCYCLING

Think upcycling and refreshing your home rather than a total revamp and you can transform your space without overspending

The start of the New Year makes many of us think about making changes. That often includes making upgrades to the home. Here are some ecofriendly ideas on how to update by reusing.

Upgrading specific elements in the kitchen is an efficient way to make a big impact without the need for a full renovation. Replacing taps and sinks can create the look of a brand-new kitchen. Adding high-end taps, such as a pull-out rinse or Quooker tap is a fast and budget-friendly way to update any style of kitchen or update your appliances.

Repainting cabinetry can truly transform a space. To ensure a professional finish, dents and scratches need to be filled and the surface sanded down for a smooth new paint finish. For example if you have a Secret Drawer kitchen, taking advantage of their Secret Drawer Furniture Refresh Service can simplify the process, ensuring expert-level care while rejuvenating their furniture and walls. You don’t need to have bought your Secret

Drawer furniture to be able to take advantage of their Refresh Service. Anyone lucky enough to inherit Secret Drawer furniture as part of the fixtures and fittings, when they move to a new home, come under the Refresh Service. You may have different taste to the original purchasers of the Secret Drawer furniture, in which case refreshing rather than replacing is an ideal and upcycling solution. The average starting cost is around £2,000, a fraction of the cost of replacing furniture.

If your budget stretches to it you could change your worktop, tiles or mirrored splashback. Installing a canopy or a bold range hood above your hob can serve as a

striking focal point, giving your kitchen a professional and stylish feel. The Secret Drawer can change and add these design features for owners of Secret Drawer furniture.

Think about replacing old cabinet handles, drawer pulls and doorknobs with modern designs. It’s an affordable way to update your kitchen, bathroom, or bedroom furniture. New light fixtures or even swapping outdated bulbs for warm LEDs can dramatically change the atmosphere. Try adding string lights or statement pendant lamps for an instant refresh. These small updates combine practicality with aesthetics, delivering maximum impact for minimal effort and cost.

REPURPOSING FURNITURE IS

AN

ECO-FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVE TO BUYING NEW

Rejuvenate your bathroom with simple, cost-effective updates that focus on cleanliness and organisation. A full, deep scrub and clean of existing floor and or wall tiles finished with a re-seal can make your tiles look as good as new.

Repurposing furniture is a fantastic way to blend sustainability with sentimental value, ensuring cherished pieces stay relevant and functional in your home. It’s an eco-friendly alternative to buying new as high-quality, handcrafted furniture, like The Secret Drawer pieces, can be adapted to fit your evolving lifestyle without starting from scratch.

The Secret Drawer Furniture Renew Service can give new life to existing Secret Drawer furniture. For example, adding cosy, integrated booth seating to a kitchen island is a smart way to enhance functionality and create a unique gathering space.

Repurposing is truly the ultimate in recycling, combining nostalgia, functionality and environmental mindfulness. n

secret-drawer.co.uk

Re-Paint

Worktops, Canopy, Splashback

Tile Clean & Re-Seal

Handles & Hardware

Upcycle

CHESNEYS SALISBURY DOUBLESIDED WITH NEIL ARMSTRONG

The Salisbury is now available as a double sided  8 kilowatt wood burning stove (4kW to each side) for larger rooms that require an increased heat output.

DIK GEURTS VIDAR WOODBURNER IN THE SHOWROOM

High quality and energy efficient, Dik Guerts stoves provide a range of sizes and styles to suit your home. The Vidar triple is flexible through its modular design.

CHESNEYS SALISBURY 8 KW WOODBURNER AND SCARPA FIREPLACE WITH CRAIG ARMSTRONG

The Salisbury 8 Series wood burning stove is elegantly traditional. It is DEFRA exempt and also exceeds eco-design 2022 requirements.

SPOILT FOR CHOICE!

So many options, it’s a luxury! So, treat yourself to a visit to Burning Desire showrooms where you will be greeted not only by the warmest welcome, but also a huge range of highquality fires and fireplaces all under one roof.

Photography: Kirsten Platt

Established in 1996, the gradual addition of more Armstrongs to family business Burning Desire has ensured the continuation of the highest levels of customer service. This approach, established by Ben and Lorraine, is essential in advising customers exactly what they can achieve in their homes, explaining sometimes very technical and state-of-the-art fires and flue systems, while always putting the customers’ needs as priority. n

NEXT GENERATION

Here’s what the next generation have to say about this respected family business: “I am relatively new to the business but have hopefully brought organisational and personal skills from my time as a teacher. The best part of the job is gaining experience with and knowledge, of a whole host of fires and understanding customers’ needs in order to advise on the best solution for them.”

Neil Armstrong

“The industry is changing all the time with new products and technologies. Efficiency and the environment are now much higher priorities than say 20 years ago. It is great to be part of a family business as we move towards our 30th year.”

Craig Armstrong

“These are exciting times for Burning Desire. Since 1996 we have been renowned for looking after our customers and we are determined to carry that tradition on – the Google reviews are a great testament to all the hard work that goes into maintaining this reputation.”

Brad Armstrong

BURNING DESIRE HAS ENSURED THE CONTINUATION OF THE HIGHEST LEVELS OF CUSTOMER SERVICE

These are just a few of the fires showcased at Burning Desire. There are well over 100 fires on display, 90 of which are available for live demonstration and there are six separate showrooms exhibiting the best in British and international gas, electric, wood-burning stoves and surrounds.

Burning Desire Fireplace Centre Unit 9 Cuba Industrial Estate Bolton Road North, Ramsbottom BL0 0NE 01706 281700

info@burningdesireuk.com  burningdesireuk.com

ONYX AVANTI 85 GAS FIRE WITH NEIL ARMSTRONG

Fully integrated control system putting ignition, flame adjustment, heat output and extinguishing right into the palm of your hand.

PUREVISION PVR WITH BRAD ARMSTRONG

The PVR cylinder stylish multifuel stove has a beautiful modern curved design providing a large viewing window and a strong 5kW plus heat output.

Burning Desire also takes great pride in the testimonials their delighted customers take the time to put on Google reviews.

Here are just a few of the 5* reviews:

“Great service, delivered and installed on time –highly recommended.”

“Great stock, not rushed, friendly staff, very helpful and good prices.”

“Great customer service and a lovely selection to choose from.”

The Stovax Studio 1 Air is an eco-design, high efficiency woodburning cassette stove. The Studio range also includes freestanding stoves with the same sleek

The Salisbury design offers ultimate versatility with different sizes/variations to suit all desires.

CHESNEYS LARGE 12KW WOODBURNER IN THE SHOWROOM

STOVAX STUDIO 1 AIR WOODBURNER WITH BRAD ARMSTRONG

glass door.

EVONIC HALO 2.4 ELECTRIC IN THE SHOWROOM

Luxurious and innovative, the Halo offers independent fuel bed settings, brilliant flame effects, mood lighting and 1500W heat output.

BEDROOM TRENDS

Lancashire-based luxury linen specialist Peter Reed highlights the key bedroom trends for the year ahead

From vintage and sustainable to luxuriously textured, premium bed linen alongside classic antiques, never go out of fashion.

VINTAGE & NOSTALGIA

Our affection for vintage remains strong, with the nostalgic charm and distinct character of aged patina making vintage and antique furniture ideal for the bedroom, more so than any other room in the home. These pieces bring a unique sense of comfort and warmth. Similarly, nostalgic embroidery offers both emotional comfort and a sense of stability.

Over the past year, at Peter Reed we have seen a resurgence of this feeling, reflected in our classic and contemporary embroidery collections, now updated with vibrant, modern colours. Each of our embroidered linens is made to order, offering a wide selection of thread colours to choose from, ensuring your linens are uniquely yours.

SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS

Sustainability continues to be a key focus in interior design. For bedroom trends in 2025, this translates to the use of eco-friendly materials and practices. Examples include reclaimed wood furniture, organic cotton bedding and non-toxic paints. The goal is to design spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing and functional but also environmentally responsible.

Peter Reed’s organic hemstitch collection, made from 100 per cent organic fibres, exemplifies this commitment to a kinder planet.

TEXTURAL LAYERS

Textural layering offers a simple yet effective way to enhance depth and warmth. By mixing various materials and finishes – like cushions and throws – a sensory-rich environment is created. The focus is on tactility, as these elements encourage touch and help to foster a cosy, inviting atmosphere.

Peter Reed’s cushions and throws, made in England and certified by British Wool, embodies this trend with a selection of detailed jacquard and contemporary waffle knit finishes, designed to suit any room. n

@peterreed1861 peterreed.com

- 100’S OF RUGS WITH AT LEAST 50%

Marvelous Woven Rug • Design ZCA016

£649 NOW ONLY £324.50 • 100% viscose made in Belgium, Size shown 9’10 x 6’7 (3.00m x 2.00m). Other sizes also available.

£599 NOW ONLY £479.20 • 100% Wool, handmade in India. Size shown 8’ x 5’ (2.44m x 1.52m). Other sizes & runners available. THE WINTER SALE STARTS 27TH DECEMBER 2024 WITH

Turkish Milas Design Rug • Design IML001

£999

Afghan Design Rug • Design IRE001

£799 NOW ONLY £397.50 • 100% Wool, handknotted in India. Size shown 8’ x 5’ (2.44m x 1.52m). Other sizes also available.

Greek Key Design • Design ECD003

Cozy up your home this winter with FrithRugs, the UK’s largest stockist of rugs, and enjoy the warmth of our Winter Sale! Discover an extensive collection of styles and sizes, all quality made with expert craftsmanship. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of luxury to your living room or revamp your bedroom with a splash of colour, our Half Price Winter Sale is your golden ticket. Step into our showrooms or browse online to find the rug that perfectly complements your style and adds a touch of winter magic to your home. The perfect rug at the perfect price awaits you in our Winter Sale!

INTERIORS FOR WELLNESS IN 2025

Elevate your home with wellbeing in mind to create calming interiors that blend comfort with elegance

With the New Year many people are re-evaluating their living spaces to align with wellness goals, recognising that their environment can significantly impact their well-being. While getting organised is a common resolution, taking time to reconsider the design of your surroundings can nurture mental and physical health in surprising ways. A thoughtful, wellness-focused home can inspire calm, offer respite and even improve daily energy levels – creating an environment that both soothes and uplifts.

For Olga Alexeeva, Creative Director of London-based interior design studio Black&Milk, wellness in interior design has evolved beyond trends and into necessity. She believes that well-designed spaces should foster a positive and nurturing environment, where each element adds to a sense of well-being. Known for its cosy, luxurious interiors that seamlessly blend comfort and elegance, Black&Milk has recently focused on creating spaces where health and design meet. Here, they share insights into how to elevate your home with wellness in mind.

NATURAL WORLD

One growing trend in wellness-focused design is bringing the outdoors inside, creating a seamless flow between nature and the home. In a recent project, Black&Milk transformed a garden shed in Hampstead into a holistic sanctuary with a sauna, bucket shower and plunge pool. Surrounded by woodlands, the structure harmonises with its environment, making nature an integral part of the design.

THE ATTENTION TO COLOUR BALANCE ALSO CONTRIBUTES TO THE SENSE OF CALM

The key to this immersive effect is thoughtful architectural and interior choices. The studio designed the space around existing trees, ensuring that the architecture blended organically into the landscape. Large windows and roof lights open up the cabin to the woodlands, creating a sensory experience that emphasises tranquillity. Traditional materials, like timber and glass, further connect occupants with nature while enhancing the room’s calming energy. With multifunctional

elements, such as a retractable bed, the garden retreat serves as both a guest house and a private hideaway, exemplifying the flexibility and harmony that wellness design can bring.

FENG SHUI AND JAPANDI

Incorporating principles like Feng Shui and Japandi – a blend of Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics – can help create balance and harmony in a home. The Soho Loft project demonstrates this approach, transforming a one-bedroom apartment into a serene retreat amid London’s bustling West End. The converted warehouse’s lofty ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows were optimised to enhance natural light, creating a sense of openness that balances the space’s relatively small footprint.

Drawing on Feng Shui, the layout features sliding rice-paper screens to create flexible separations between spaces, allowing for privacy without compromising light flow. The use of low-level furniture further enhances the airy atmosphere, grounding the apartment in Japandi style’s minimalist, calming aesthetic. The attention to colour balance also contributes to the sense of calm

with neutral shades that dominate the yang spaces (kitchen and living area), while rich dark tones define the yin bedroom, supporting restful energy.

These thoughtful design elements create a tranquil haven that balances both the physical layout and the intangible energy within the space – proof that small adjustments can lead to a significant impact on well-being.

SPA ROOMS AND HOME GYMS

Home spas and fitness rooms are increasingly popular as more people prioritise self-care spaces within their homes. Olga Alexeeva notes that wellness spaces, from spa rooms to home gyms, are among Black&Milk’s most requested features: “The wellness culture is rising and creating spaces dedicated to self-care at home offers a luxurious, accessible solution.”

The pandemic underscored the importance of home sanctuaries, accelerating the shift toward self-care spaces that provide escape and comfort. Beyond enhancing relaxation, these upgrades add lasting value to a property.

In the Euston project, a bathroom was transformed into a spa-inspired sanctuary using mood lighting and distinct materials

to differentiate it from other areas of the home. This spatial sensory shift allows occupants to fully disconnect, engaging their senses and encouraging relaxation. The project embodies the goal of wellness-driven design – to create spaces that support health and relaxation on a daily basis.

BY NURTURING

CALM, ENHANCING FUNCTION

AND CONNECTING WITH NATURE, YOUR HOME CAN TRULY BECOME A PLACE THAT INSPIRES AND REJUVENATES

CREATING A WELLNESSCENTRED HOME

With wellness increasingly integrated into the heart of interior design, transforming your home with these principles can be both achievable and enriching. Whether you’re embracing nature by blurring indoor and outdoor boundaries, creating peaceful balance through Feng Shui and Japandi, or setting up dedicated spaces for self-care, wellness-driven design ensures your home becomes a sanctuary of tranquility.

In 2025, let every room in your home reflect your wellness goals. This approach shows that by nurturing calm, enhancing function and connecting with nature, your home can truly become a place that inspires and rejuvenates – supporting a healthier, happier you every day. n

COOL BRITANNIA

These classically British interiors feature styling that withstands the test of time

From catwalk chic to living room luxe as Cool Britannia makes its way from the catwalk to our homes, here are some of the latest looks and styling tips to bring #Britishcore alive.

FROM ICONIC SILHOUETTES THROUGH TO CONTEMPORARY COLOUR COMBINATIONS THIS EYE-CATCHING TREND REIMAGINES OUR GREATEST HITS

From iconic silhouettes through to contemporary colour combinations this eye-catching trend playfully reimagines our greatest hits, transforming spaces and creating wonderwalls.

Featuring classically crafted Chesterfield sofas through to dramatic boutique-hotel style headboards and of course a dash of stripes and plaid, British design has always delivered interior inspiration to withstand the test of time.

The Cool Britannia trend takes the best of British classics, reframing them with a contemporary twist to effortlessly meet the rhythms of modern life.

BRITISH DESIGN HAS ALWAYS DELIVERED INTERIOR INSPIRATION TO WITHSTAND THE TEST OF TIME

To get the look, choose furniture that pays homage to quintessential British craftsmanship through tufting, turned legs and statement scaling.

And when it comes to decorating, take inspiration from the best of British fashion, adding confident stripes, patterned textiles with a vintage feel and playful accessories in saturated hues.

Combined with dark woods, leathers and moody paint hues this take on preppy traditional will instantly inject a feeling of heritage and sophistication giving you the feeling of a boutique hotel or private members’ club at home. n

dfs.co.uk

Bathrooms to inspire...

Bathrooms to inspire...

Be inspired in our 3000 sq ft showroom. Open Monday – Friday 8am - 4pm Saturday 9am - 5pm

Please call 01772 611622 or email showroom@originalbathroomcompany.co.uk

PAVING THE WAY

TO A REVOLUTION

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

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

However, research carried out by the team at Bannister Hall highlighted that it is not necessarily the cost of the stone that is a barrier to it being used on a specific project,

but more often the lengthy installation time, resulting in higher labour costs than alternative materials such as resin, coupled with the availability of skilled installers, which can sometimes be prohibitive.

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

As landscaping and paving contractors with 30 years’ experience, supported by 19 years of supplying landscaping products to the trade and more recently directly to the public, they lead the way in the industry.

Continuous investment and development into creating new and exciting products has resulted in the creation of the PietraPave

paving system, unique and exclusive to Bannister Hall, which confidently delivers on every level – visually, practically, financially and ecologically throughout the supply chain including designers, contractors, the end user and the environment.

PietraPave brings natural stone to the forefront of paving by supplying beautiful natural stone setts bonded to a revolutionary durable and robust backing mat.

The mat allows the stone to be laid with maximum accuracy and efficiency, significantly reduced manual handling and delivering astonishing results at a fraction of the price when compared to ordinary methods –making natural stone a real option once more for both small and large-scale projects.

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

Paul Kenworthy from Gardenscene

Think mosaic tile sheets – but on a much bigger scale, it can be used on small residential projects as well as in large scale commercial

developments as can be seen at the Flower Bowl entertainment complex in Garstang where a bespoke natural stone motif was created to match exactly with the huge abstract floral designs on the side of this inspirational, contemporary building.

Linear, fan and circular designs are all offered in a range of colours and finishes to ensure there is something for everyone and there is a large variety of styles to suit a multitude of paving schemes and personal preferences.

DEFINITELY A PRODUCT I WOULD RECOMMEND…

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

Adam Rawcliffe – Contract Manager Barton Grange Landscapes

Bespoke paving designs using a CAD service allows paving to be taken to the limits of the designer’s imagination offering a truly revolutionary service. All PietraPave designs can be tweaked and customised to suit a particular scheme – the colour, finish and thickness of the stone can all be modified to suit the setting and terrain and elevations.

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

Bannister Hall

Potter Lane, Higher Walton Preston PR5 4EN 01772 877087

bannisterhall.com

OPEN MONDAY TO FRIDAY

FREE ON-SITE PARKING

Clearly Interiors are proud to supply the kitchens and bedrooms for yet another stunning Beck Homes development

St Michael’s Court, Foulridge

Nestled in the idyllic village of Foulridge and overlooking the beautiful Lake Burwain, sits this stunning development of nine luxury 3 & 4 bedroom detached homes.

Prices start from £339,950 The Showhome is open Sundays 11am – 4pm or by appointment.

For more information please call 0844 335 0824 or visit our website at beckhomes.co.uk.

The Brambles, Laneshawbridge

This prestigious development of four luxury 4 bedroom detached homes with double garages is located in the beautiful village of Laneshawbridge.

Prices start from £479,950 Part exchange is available on this development. Viewings are by appointment only.

For more information or to book a viewing please call 0844 335 0824 or visit our website at beckhomes.co.uk

SCAN

START THE NEW GARDEN YEAR WITH A SMILE

Gardening is well known to be good for body and soul – it keeps you physically active and is a natural mood booster so start the year on a positive note

Sometimes it’s the simple things that bring a smile to the face. Watching bumblebees in early spring, digging up potatoes (one of life’s great adventures) or catching the scent of sweet peas on a summer’s afternoon can make your garden or outside space into a place of natural contemplation and joy.

Research carried out at the Chelsea Flower Show in 2022 identified the top three plants in the UK that are most likely to put a smile on your face – lily of the valley, sweet pea and jasmine – so they might make good additions to your garden or containers this year. Lily of the valley is a great choice for shady area ground cover, but can be toxic to pets so be careful where you plant it. A good alternative at this time of year could be the tenderly fragrant snowdrop.

Galanthus ‘Atkinsii’ is one of the earliest flowering snowdrops. Honey scented and loved by pollinators, this snowdrop flowers in January and February and is a vigorous grower with distinctive long and slender outer petals. Each inner petal has a green,

heart-shaped mark at its tip. Planting snowdrops in the green is the most successful planting method. Simply lift snowdrop plants

LILY

OF

THE

VALLEY IS A GREAT CHOICE FOR SHADY AREA GROUND COVER, BUT CAN BE TOXIC TO PETS

just after flowering and before the foliage has turned yellow, replant elsewhere. You can buy snowdrops in the green from garden centres or online. They like well-drained soil in light shade – but if you have heavy soil then add a little grit to the planting hole. Once snowdrops are established there’s no maintenance required – just let foliage die back naturally to ensure the nutrients from the leaves are returned to the bulbs and divide established clumps every few years.

Another fragrant plant that also provides great ground cover and is robust enough for UK winters is thyme. A compact evergreen shrub with small aromatic leaves, thyme (Thymus) is easy to grow in a warm, sunny spot, in free-draining soil or in containers. It’s also drought tolerant and needs little maintenance once established. Known widely as a culinary herb, thyme has been used in complementary and alternative medicine for centuries. A thyme herbal tea infusion can help soothe sore throats and relieve coughs thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. n

JANUARY TO DO LIST:

A lot of the jobs for January are preparing the garden and plants for the growing season to come. Here are top tips for the month from the RHS:

• Prune apple and pear trees

• Clean pots, greenhouses and cold frames ready for spring

• Keep an eye on watering house plants

• Plant now to boost the winter fragrances in your garden

• Keep an eye on figs and olives –guard against frost by fleecing

• Plan you vegetable crop rotations for the coming growing season

• Keep putting out food and water for birds

• Summer bulbs, seed potatoes and onion sets are available to buy mid month

• Prune soft fruit bushes eg currants and gooseberries, plus autumn raspberries

HAND-BUILT HEART OF FAMILY GATHERINGS

The ESSE 1600 T range cooker has timeless style and has enough ovens and hob space to take everything in its stride

Big celebrations at home with family and friends are joyful, magical and memorable but they can also be a tad stressful.

Do you have enough chairs? Where will everyone park? Who’s in charge of the TV remote – and who’s bringing the wine!

At least cooking for everyone can be a simple pleasure. The ESSE 1600 T has enough ovens and hob space to take large gatherings capably in its stride. This versatile range cooker offers timeless style, with electric convenience.

Whether you’re roasting a 20lb joint with all the trimmings, vegetables, sauces and desserts, or cooking an overnight stew in the warming oven, you can relax with a homemade biscuit and a cup of tea – the ESSE 1600 T has it covered.

This beautiful range cooker provides five deep ovens, two powerful grills, two cast iron hotplates and one large induction zone. The timer allows you to ‘set and forget’ your preferred temperature programme, and patented heat-surround technology guarantees even oven temperatures throughout, so you don’t need to shuffle dishes between shelves or rotate your bakes.

UNDERSTATED STYLE

The expansive hob surface is uncluttered and easy to clean, with two controllable

300°C cast hotplates and an instant induction hob with simple controls. The easy-to-use analogue control dials are neatly housed behind the upper left door of the 1000 cooker, which features the iconic ESSE script –subtly representing 170 years of British stove-building heritage.

…TO THE KITCHEN’S OF THE SAVOY

Master Stove Maker since 1854, ESSE’s range cookers and stoves have been relied upon in some of the world’s most demanding environments –from Ernest Shackleton’s expeditions and Florence Nightingale’s hospital, to royal residences and the kitchens of the Savoy. Every ESSE is beautifully handmade by a dedicated team of skilled craftsmen in Barnoldswick, Lancashire.

NO LIMIT ON LAYOUT

Without the need for a flue or chimney, the electric ESSE 1600 T can be placed anywhere in your kitchen with access to three standard plug sockets.

Why not make it part of an island? Perfect for cooking and entertaining in open-plan kitchens without turning your back on guests.

ELECTRIC EFFICIENCY

The 1600 T offers controllable cooking and minimises energy use. It utilises power share engineering, pulsing energy to where it’s needed for swifter heat-up times.

Like all electric ESSE range cookers, the 1600 works on the proven heat storage principle, combining welcoming background heat with dependable and versatile cooking performance. For energy efficient use and rapid heat-up times electric ESSE range cookers are designed to operate from a slumber setting.

FINISHING TOUCHES

Every design detail has been carefully considered – from full-length towel rail and heat-conserving lids to sturdy doors you can nudge shut when your hands are full.

There are even eight beautiful colours to choose from. n

For more information about the ESSE 1600 T Electric Range Cooker, please contact specialist ESSE retailer, Nick Astley at Fuelmizas in Ribchester.

Fuelmizas Bee Mill, Preston Road Ribchester PR3 3XJ 01254 878368 sales@fuelmizas.com fuelmizas.com

170 YEARS OF HOME COOKING

ESSE’s electric range cooker is the classic kitchen star – whatever the recipe and however many guests.

Independently controlled ovens incorporate unrivalled heat surround technology to ensure even better baking. The combination of an efficient induction hob with cast iron hotplate provides the convenience and flexibility demanded by the modern home.

Find your perfect tone from a choice of eight colours

security if you’re looking to sell on, it could also be a starter home for your children, a place for your parents as they grow older, or somewhere for you to move into.

For those interested in exploring the possibilities of a garden plot, or a replacement dwelling, BCAE offers a truly unique approach… coffee with an architect.

On the last Friday of every month, Ben and Arron invite you to their Euxton office for a complimentary coffee and consultation.

DISCOVER THE POTENTIAL OF A GARDEN PLOT OVER COFFEE

Building a home in your garden could be worth thousands of pounds or solve your housing dilemmas. Find out how BCAE Architects can help turn your green space into grand plans, writes Sarah Ulyatt

BCAE Architects, led by Co-Directors Ben Craven and Arron El-Ammar, specialise in creating bespoke, sustainable designs that make the most of your land, whether it’s a lush garden, a humble plot, or a replacement dwelling. Ben and Arron have been helping people across the North West transform their outdoor spaces into valuable assets, solving housing dilemmas and creating beautiful, eco-friendly homes.

Do you have a garden plot?

Your garden could hold the answer to your future. Not only could it bring you financial

BEN AND ARRON HAVE BEEN HELPING PEOPLE ACROSS THE NORTH WEST TRANSFORM THEIR OUTDOOR SPACES INTO VALUABLE ASSETS

In these 45-minute bookable slots, they’ll help bring your ideas to life. It’s a relaxed way to get expert advice without the pressure of immediate commitments. n

Visit their website for project inspiration and then brew up some exciting plans!

BCAE Architects Unit 17, Guest House Farm Runshaw Lane Euxton PR7 6HD 01772 230538

info@bcae-architects.co.uk

bcae-architects.co.uk

bcae_architects

Your invitation:

Coffee with an architect

When:

The last Friday of every month

Where:

BCAE Architects, Guest House Farm Euxton PR7 6HD

45 minutes of FREE advice, coffee and biscuits!

Scan to book your slot or visit: bcae-architects.co.uk/coffee-with-an-architect-sign-up

FOR THE PERFECT FIRE…

Founded by Paul and Debbie Barker, Anchor Logs is a family business selling ready-to-burn kiln dried logs from their farm in Gargrave

Anchor Logs’ success is built on two fundamental principles – supplying the best quality product and providing outstanding customer service. Being a certified member of the ‘Woodsure Ready to Burn Scheme’ shows Anchor Logs’ commitment to responsible, sustainable woodland management practices, ensuring their customers receive only the highest quality products.

The wood is processed into logs and dried in the drying kiln on site. Anchor Logs also supply kindling, coal and log stores.

We also like to talk to our customers and welcome telephone orders during office hours: 01756 748342. Anchor Logs offer free delivery within a 30-mile radius.

Online orders welcome 24/7 at anchorlogs.co.uk n

anchorlogs.co.uk

Last year’s UK-wide Big Garden Birdwatch results revealed that the house sparrow held on to the top spot for another year, with the blue tit riding high at number two and the starling coming in at number three. The wood pigeon and blackbird made up the remainder of the top five most recorded species. Although 1.4 million house sparrows were spotted across the January weekend last year,

BIG GARDEN BIRDWATCH

The world’s largest garden wildlife survey returns, with hundreds of thousands of people watching and counting the UK’s garden birds in January. Photography: RSPB Images

Over the last weekend in January the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch returns! In 2024 over 600,000 people took part, counting more than 9.7 million birds and over 12,845 of those passionate counters were here in Lancashire.

For this year’s event on 24th, 25th and 26th January, people are asked to spend an hour watching and counting the birds in their garden or local park, or from their balcony, then send their results to the RSPB.

The Birdwatch, which started in 1979, has become a much-loved annual citizen science event that gives the RSPB a valuable snapshot of how our garden birds are doing in the UK. Over that time, more than 195 million birds have been counted and over 12.1 million hours spent watching and counting garden birds.

Beccy Speight, the RSPB’s Chief Executive, said: “At its heart, Big Garden Birdwatch is an opportunity for people to spend an hour watching, enjoying and connecting with

the wildlife on their doorstep. From chirpy house sparrows to acrobatic blue tits, the entertaining antics of our garden birds can brighten even the dullest day and bring a welcome dose of nature into our everyday lives.

THE AVERAGE NUMBER OF HOUSE SPARROWS SPOTTED HAS DROPPED 60 PER CENT SINCE THE FIRST BIG GARDEN BIRDWATCH IN 1979

“By taking part in the Birdwatch, you and hundreds of thousands of other nature lovers across the UK, play an important role in helping us understand how garden birds are doing. With the nature and climate emergency threatening even our most familiar birds, every count matters. It’s good for wildlife and evidence shows it’s good for our own wellbeing.”

they have sadly suffered severe declines. The average number spotted in gardens, parks and community spaces has dropped 60 per cent since the first Big Garden Birdwatch in 1979. Over its four decades, Big Garden Birdwatch has highlighted the winners and losers in the garden bird world. The blue tit and great tit, much-loved garden species, have seen their average numbers rise by 24 per cent and 61 per cent respectively. While species such as the starling, currently at number two in the Big Garden Birdwatch charts, has seen its numbers drop by more than 80 per cent since 1979. n

To receive your free Big Garden Birdwatch guide, which includes a bird identification chart, top tips for your Birdwatch, RSPB shop voucher, plus advice on how to help you attract wildlife to your garden, text BIRD to 82727, or go to: rspb.org.uk/birdwatch

The parallel event RSPB Big Schools’ Birdwatch takes place during the first half of the spring term, 7th January – 14th February 2025. For more than 20 years, the Birdwatch has helped to connect children and their teachers with nature in their school grounds. Further information can be found at: rspb.org.uk/schoolswatch

WINTER

BESPOKE TAILORS

Wherever your day takes you, make sure you stand out in a bespoke suit, or separates from Norton and Townsend.

From our showrooms in Ilkley & London we

WRAP YOURSELF IN BRITISH TEXTILE HISTORY

In a unique collaboration, shoemaker LANX is working with a Lancashire textile mill to produce a beautiful woollen scarf with the distinctive black and orange LANX heel tab

Ribble Valley based LANX has become renowned for super-stylish ‘proper’ shoes – hand-made and built to last. However, the team at LANX has recently embarked on a number of local collaborations elevating their collection to the next level.

Designed to keep you warm and comfortable through the winter months, LANX has created a scarf that is more than just an accessory – it’s a piece of heritage 200 years in the making.

LANX founder Marco Vaghetti (Marv) is working with local, family-run County Brook Mill, which has made the scarves with 100 per cent pure British and Merino wool. Testament to British craftsmanship, the scarves are made using traditional weaving methods and high-quality materials that ensure every thread is as luxurious as it is durable.

County Brook’s mill is located in the countryside of Foulridge, Colne and has been owned and operated by four generations of the Mitchell family since 1907, with their principles not changing since their humble beginnings. The name County Brook Mill

comes from the brook which once fed the mighty water wheel, powering more than 400 looms at its peak in 1936.

“LANX are proud to be working with another fantastic local manufacturer.

County Brook has been championing the textile industry for over 200 years right here in Lancashire, so working alongside them on our new scarf collection was a no-brainer,” explains Marv.

For LANX the process starts when the yarn

COUNTY BROOK’S EXPERTISE IN QUALITY TEXTILE MANUFACTURE AS WELL AS THEIR ABUNDANCE OF KNOWLEDGE, MEANT THAT COLLABORATING WITH THEM FOR OUR SCARVES WAS A NO-BRAINER

reaches the mill. County Brook has spent hundreds of years perfecting the formula of which yarn to use for each component of the textiles they produce.

Their team weaves the yarn into cloth using the modern equivalent of a traditional

loom. These state-of-the-art machines use the same processes as their historic equipment, with the added bonuses of manufacturing accuracy, efficiency and the capability to weave textiles of multiple colours, fibres and densities.

THE ROLLS OF TEXTILE ARE CUT DOWN TO SIZE AND EMBELLISHED WITH THE LABELS AND THE LANX HEEL TAB

The cloth then undergoes a ‘finishing’ process, where it is washed, cleaned, dried and treated. After an inspection to ensure every metre is of the highest standards, the rolls of textile are cut down to size and embellished with the labels and the distinctive black and orange LANX heel tab. The resulting product is something to be proud of – a scarf made of the finest quality wool, designed to keep you comfortable and looking sharp throughout the cold months.

LANX scarves use a combination of pure wools to ensure both comfort and quality. The warp (the vertical threads) is a Pennine British wool. This extremely versatile material is ideal for scarves as its natural crimp and elasticity remain within the fibres despite constant wear, while its ability to trap air makes it a great insulator.

The weft (the horizontal threads) is made of a Mariola Merino wool. Its fine fibres make it extremely soft to the touch while retaining its durability, ensuring the scarf stays comfortable. Merino wool is also renowned for being breathable, antibacterial and easy to maintain.

If treated correctly, these scarves will reward the wearer with many years of comfort.

Like their shoes, LANX has kept it local and has aptly named the scarves Salterforth, after the area local to County Brook’s mill. You can buy online or pop into the Whalley store to see them in person. They are available in four beautiful colourways – grey, brown, green and navy. n

lanxshoes.com

THE LARGEST STOCKIST OF QUALITY COUNTRY

THE LARGEST STOCKIST OF QUALITY COUNTRY

CLOTHING IN THE NORTH WEST

CLOTHING IN THE NORTH WEST

EXCITING NEWS…

Following on from the success of Scruples 1984 in Barrowford, the luxury menswear store is to open a second shop in Whalley.

Photography: Kirsten Platt

Leading menswear store Scruples 1984, which has forged a reputation for its unrivalled portfolio of worldrenowned collections, including Tom Ford and Loro Piana, has announced it is set to open a new store in the Ribble Valley.

Having enjoyed a record-breaking 2024, Scruples founder Stephen Collins and Barrowford store manager Tom Orrell, made the decision to open Scruples in King Street, Whalley: “We are tremendously excited about opening a second store which will be located in the Ribble Valley,” says Tom.

“Scruples’ founder and director Stephen has always aspired to open a second shop and personally, I think it’s a great idea as we have had the busiest 18 months ever with the brands that we are currently working with.”

Based in Barrowford, Scruples 1984 has enjoyed long-term success thanks to the discerning choice of brands that are often exclusive to them outside Manchester and London.

WE HAVE HAD A REALLY GOOD YEAR WITH TOM FORD AND AS A RESULT, WE HAVE BEEN AWARDED TOM FORD ICON THAT REALLY ELEVATES THE CURRENT COLLECTION

Each season Stephen and Tom travel to Italy to hand pick the collections that have made Scruples the ‘go-to’ menswear store for exclusive luxury fashion and sought-after accessories.

Their decision to move into the Ribble Valley has been a natural evolution that will see them stocking current brands as well as new names at the Whalley store:

“The move has been in the pipeline for a while,” adds Tom.

“Our recent success with various brands has meant that we have had many new customers – and a good number of those are from the Ribble Valley. We seem to have captured that audience, so it makes sense to respond to the demand.

“Over the past two years we have made changes in how and when we buy and we are continuing to pick up the pace as it has been really successful.

“Some of the collections will be stocked at both the Barrowford and Whalley stores but we will also be introducing some new names to Whalley.

“There will be no crossover with other shops in the town. We will be stocking completely different names in terms of designers and manufacturers,” explains Tom, who is

delighted to announce that Scruples Whalley will feature Zegna and Dita eyewear as well as the new Tom Ford Icon collection that has been awarded to Scruples.

“We have had a really good year with Tom Ford and on the back of that, we have been awarded Tom Ford Icon that really elevates the current collection that we offer. The Icon collection offers a small number of exclusive frames – they are the very best and we will be featuring them in both our Barrowford and Whalley stores.”

Scruples’ Whalley menswear store will feature a fresh aesthetic and work will soon be underway to create this new look in readiness for an early spring launch.

“Scruples Whalley will be very reactive to the seasons and will reflect our reputation for collections that feature clean lines and luxury fabrics,” adds Tom.

“For example, Filippo De Laurentiis has

some wonderful knitwear and more formal jackets plus the Paul & Shark collection has been re-imagined and elevated. As a result we have enjoyed phenomenal success with it. Herno outerwear too is another label that

SCRUPLES WHALLEY WILL BE VERY REACTIVE TO THE SEASONS AND WILL REFLECT OUR REPUTATION FOR COLLECTIONS THAT FEATURE CLEAN LINES AND LUXURY FABRICS

we have had considerable success with –these are all luxury garments featuring the best cloths and fabrics, including cashmere, wool and silk blends.”

The launch of the Whalley store will mark a new and exciting chapter for Scruples 1984 –Stephen Collins’ daughter Maxine will be

joining the team: “There will be some new friendly faces as well as some familiar ones too. The new store has been a long-term aspiration for us and as 2024 came to a close, we capped off yet another good year and we look forward to an even more successful 2025 as we open Scruples in Whalley.” n

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

scruplesmenswear.co.uk

@scruplesmenswear

@scruplesmens

Scruples

SIMS WEAR BRUSHED SHETLAND WOOL RED VEST £185 simswear.com

BARBOUR SALTBURN BEANIE £29.95 vareys.co.uk

BARBOUR MOORE FLEECE DARK GINGER £169 vareys.co.uk

BARBOUR LAVENSDALE HALF ZIP JUMPER £119 Varey’s Town and Country 2 Market Place Clitheroe BB7 2DB 01200 423267 vareys.co.uk

LANX BROWN SALTERFORTH SCARF £60 lanxshoes.com

Winter woollens and fabulous fleeces will help keep you wonderfully warm this season

BARBOUR MANNING PUFFER HONEY £219 vareys.co.uk

LANX CAMEL & CARAMEL PARLICK BAG £195 lanxshoes.com

SIMS WEAR ORANGE MARL LAMBSWOOL JUMPER £195 simswear.com

BARBOUR HOUGHTON SOCKS £16.95 vareys.co.uk

LANX BURNT ORANGE DOWNHAM HAT £45 lanxshoes.com

LANX CONKER DISTRESSED CHIPPING DERBY BOOTS £190

LANX Unit 29

Mitton Road Business Park Whalley BB7 9YE lanxshoes.com

Unit 29, Mitton Rd, Whalley, BB7 9YE

glasses are the same and you get the best vision once you’ve had your eyes tested and glasses provided by your opticians, but that just isn’t true.”

Amazed at the precise detail he can now see, Ferenc Van Esch has nothing but praise for the team at The Spectacle Factory. Photography: Robin Lyndon

he best glasses I’ve ever had!”

That’s what Ferenc Van Esch thinks of his glasses from The Spectacle Factory.

THE NEXT LEVEL “T

Born in The Netherlands, Ferenc has lived in the UK for over 20 years and has been a loyal customer of The Spectacle Factory for the past eight years.

He’s most impressed with the level of detail he can now see.

Ferenc comments: “I always thought my eyesight was quite good until I started wearing glasses in my thirties. I then realised what I had been missing. However, the glasses I have from The Spectacle Factory take this to a whole different level. I am stunned at the level of detail I can now see with the glasses I have from them.”

This is one of the distinguishing features of The Spectacle Factory, as their eye testing procedure is so much more comprehensive than other opticians.

Robert Sands who manages The Spectacle Factory, comments: “People assume all

The Spectacle Factory’s eye test is much more thorough and their ‘I.profiler’ test assesses the unique shape of the eye, which is actually more unique than an individual’s fingerprint!

WE GET TO KNOW EACH INDIVIDUAL CUSTOMER AND CONSIDER WHAT WILL LOOK GOOD ON THEIR FACE, WHAT WILL FIT WELL AND WHICH GLASSES REFLECT THEIR PERSONALITY

This provides a much more objective test based on the customer’s eye and as a result the prescription is 25 times more accurate than a standard test, ensuring the best vision possible for every customer.

As well as a more accurate prescription, The Spectacle Factory also understand that every pair of glasses sits differently on each person’s face. They use their VisuFit 1000 to refine the chosen frame providing the most

comfortable fitting pair of glasses.

Robert believes the process of buying glasses in the UK could be improved.

He states: “Once an eye test is complete people are presented with walls displaying hundreds of pairs of glasses, and they have no idea where to start. It’s completely different at The Spectacle Factory as we get to know each individual customer and consider what will look good on their face, what will fit well and equally importantly, which glasses reflect their personality.

“That way, they only have to choose from a handful of pairs, making the whole process of selecting glasses much more relaxed, fun and stress free.”

Ferenc has three pairs of glasses from The Spectacle Factory – his everyday glasses, sunglasses and safety ones for work.

Safety glasses are vital for certain jobs and research shows that in the US alone there are 3,000 eye injuries a year as people aren’t adequately protected.

Fortunately, the safety glasses at The Spectacle Factory meet all the safety criteria and look like a sporty pair of glasses, rather than the chunky goggle type ones we’re used to seeing. With one pair of glasses providing a combination of safety and the correct vision, customers get the best of both worlds.

The support at The Spectacle Factory continues well after you’ve purchased your glasses.

Robert and his team are keen for the glasses to last as long as possible providing each customer with excellent value. Every six months the glasses are serviced, where they are deep cleaned and all fittings tested ensuring a long-term happy glasses’ wearer.

Robert concludes: “We see glasses as an investment and everything we stock is of superb quality from the top manufacturers and designers in the world. Glasses aren’t just a style statement, we want them to be as comfortable and durable as possible. With Ferenc working away for several months at a time he needs the quality and reliability all our glasses offer.”

As well as being the best glasses he’s ever had, Ferenc’s everyday glasses perfectly reflect his personality, they’re sophisticated, smart and straightforward, just like him! n

WITH THE GLASSES I HAVE FROM THE SPECTACLE FACTORY I AM STUNNED AT THE LEVEL OF DETAIL I CAN NOW SEE

to salads for extra healthy fats and texture and choose whole grains like quinoa or brown rice instead of refined options. You could also consider introducing plant-based proteins like lentils, chickpeas or tofu into your meals a few times a week too. By focusing on what you can eat rather than what you should eliminate, you’ll develop a healthier, more positive relationship with food. Over time, you’ll naturally reduce cravings for less nutritious options without feeling deprived, which makes this approach more sustainable and enjoyable.

PRACTISE MINDFUL EATING

Mindful eating is about more than choosing healthy foods, it’s about being fully present during meals and paying attention to your body’s hunger and fullness signals. Slowing down, savouring each bite and eating with intention can reduce stress, prevent overeating and encourage better food choices.

NUTRITION WITH KELI

Nutritionist Keli Thompson explains how practising mindful eating and committing to consistent rest and recovery will make us feel more energised and focused in 2025

As we head into 2025, many of us feel inspired to set new goals for better health and well-being.

The New Year is an excellent opportunity to pause, reflect and consider how we can better care for ourselves.

Instead of making strict or hard-to-maintain resolutions, try focusing on minor adjustments that can lead to significant changes over time. Adding nutrient-rich foods, practising mindful eating and prioritising rest are simple, manageable shifts that promote a healthier, more balanced life. These changes create a positive relationship with food and set the tone for a fulfilling year ahead.

ADD NUTRIENT-DENSE FOODS INSTEAD OF RESTRICTING

Many resolutions focus on cutting out foods, but a more positive and practical approach is to add more nutrient-dense options to your meals. A diet full of whole, unprocessed foods such as colourful vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats and whole grains, can increase your intake of essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. A great goal is to aim for 30 different plant points daily.

To get started, incorporate diverse fruits and vegetables into your meals (think all the colours of the rainbow). Add nuts or seeds

Start by setting aside at least 20 minutes for each meal and eliminate distractions like phones or TVs. Sit at your dining table and focus on your food’s flavours, textures and aromas. Chew slowly and enjoy each bite thoroughly. This simple practise can transform eating into a satisfying ritual, support digestion and help you make more thoughtful choices.

PRIORITISE REST AND RECOVERY

Wellness goes beyond diet including how you care for your body and mind. Making rest and recovery a priority in 2025 can significantly improve your health. Chronic stress and inadequate sleep can spoil your efforts to eat well and stay active, this can lead to cravings, low energy and irritability.

To improve sleep, establish a calming bedtime routine – reduce screen time an hour before bed, dim the lights, read or journal. Herbal teas like chamomile can also promote relaxation.

To manage stress, try meditation, deep breathing exercises or walking in nature –especially in daylight for added benefits. These small changes can set you up for a healthier, happier 2025. n

nutritionwithkeli@outlook.com nutritionwithkeli

Improves appearance and functionality of the skin

Non-invasive with minimal downtime

NOSE KNOW HOW

Rhinophyma, a severe form of rosacea, can impact confidence and quality of life. Discover Laser in Burnley offers UltraPulse CO2 laser treatment to restore natural contours and self-assurance

Characterised by thickened, uneven skin on the nose, Rhinophyma often develops from untreated or severe rosacea. Commonly affecting men over 40, it can leave anyone feeling self-conscious and unsure where to turn.

Dr Miguel Montero at Discover Laser in Burnley offers life-changing treatments for Rhinophyma using the UltraPulse CO2 laser, a powerful tool in dermatology.

Rhinophyma typically presents as a bulbous, enlarged nose with thickened skin and visible pores. In advanced cases, the excess tissue can obstruct nasal airflow, causing functional and aesthetic concerns.

Linked to advanced or untreated rosacea, it develops gradually and, like rosacea, can be triggered by sun exposure, alcohol, spicy foods or stress. While early medication intervention can help control rosacea, Rhinophyma often requires a more targeted approach to address the thickened tissue and restore the nose’s natural shape.

Dr Montero explains how the UltraPulse CO2 laser has revolutionised the treatment of Rhinophyma at his clinic: “UltraPulse is ideal for Rhinophyma because it allows us to target thickened areas of the skin with incredible accuracy. The results are not just aesthetic – treatment can relieve discomfort and even improve breathing in severe cases.

“Precise and safe, the advanced laser technology removes excess tissue layer by layer, smoothing and reshaping the skin while preserving healthy underlying structures.

“Unlike surgery, laser treatment is minimally invasive with less downtime,

allowing our patients to return to normal routines within a week.”

Patients treated at Discover Laser often describe their journey as nothing short of transformative:

“The shape of my nose changed over 10 years, becoming lumpy and wider. I had seen a dermatologist who prescribed topical treatments for the redness, but they didn’t improve the lumpiness. I was concerned when I looked further into what Rhinophyma can do to people. I didn’t want my nose to become an embarrassment.

“When I spoke to Dr Montero about treatment, I told him I wanted a smooth, narrower nose. He talked me through the treatment and answered my questions.

“My biggest fear was how much pain I’d have during treatment and after, but I followed his post-care instructions to the letter and had none. The whole experience was terrific from beginning to end and I’m 100% happy with the results. My confidence has come back and my fears of what might happen have gone.

“If you’re considering having treatment for Rhinophyma, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Dr Montero and UltraPulse.”

Discover Laser is a trusted destination for advanced dermatological skin care in the North West. If you or someone you know is living with Rhinophyma, there’s no need to feel resigned to the condition. With expert care and advanced laser treatments, Discover Laser can help restore both appearance and confidence.

To book your ROSACEA CONSULTATION with Dr Montero, call Discover Laser’s team on 01282 420886

MY BIGGEST FEAR WAS HOW MUCH PAIN I’D HAVE DURING TREATMENT AND AFTER, BUT I FOLLOWED HIS POST-CARE INSTRUCTIONS TO THE LETTER AND HAD NONE.

THE WHOLE EXPERIENCE WAS TERRIFIC FROM BEGINNING TO END AND I’M 100% HAPPY WITH THE RESULTS.

~ TONY, DISCOVER LASER PATIENT ~

At Fitness Plus, we understand that achieving your health and fitness goals is about more than just physical transformation; it’s about committing to a lifestyle that supports your overall well-being.

Our Diamond Membership is designed to offer an unparalleled excellence and an experience that goes beyond the gym, providing you with a comprehensive suite of services and benefits to enhance every aspect of your fitness journey.

PRICED AT £2599 FOR A YEAR’S MEMBERSHIP

WHAT’S INCLUDED

+ 36 Personal Training Sessions with our top trainers, Will or Ben, tailored to your individual fitness goals

+ Unlimited access to all ebooks and Fitness Plus content

+ Receive a towel, shaker, whey protein, and creatine to keep you fuelled and ready

+ Comprehensive blood test with Goodbody Clinic to tailor your health plan precisely to your needs

+ Mindfulness session to help you manage stress and improve mental clarity

+ Physio assessment session to ensure your body is functioning optimally and to address any concerns

+ Enjoy 1 month of nutritious meals from Harry’s Kitchen, delivered to your door, 5 times a week

+ Get unlimited access to all our gym facilities with a Platinum membership

+ Fitness Plus concierge service to cater to your personal needs and ensure a seamless experience

+ Clitheroe Cryotherapy session to aid recovery and enhance performance

+ Relax and rejuvenate at the Hidden Oaks with a 1-hour spa session every quarter

+ Peak Performance sports massages every quarter to keep you at the top of your game

+ 1 x colonic hydrotherapy treatment at Revitalise Wellness Centre

Stonebridge Mill Kestor Lane Longridge PR3 3AD 01772 366004 info@fitnessplusgym.co.uk www.fitnessplusgym.co.uk

The past 15 years have seen the trajectory of skin technology advancements skyrocket. In the years preceding, procedures including facelifts, eyelid surgery and resurfacing were the only options available for a dramatic result in skin tightening and anti-ageing, which incurred significant cost and extensive downtime due to their invasive, surgical nature.

We then entered a new beauty era which changed the industry for good with the advancement of non-invasive alternatives. The top, most transformative treatment which delivers results which far exceed client expectations is the revolutionary Plasma PenTM

IT’S A PLASMA REVOLUTION!

Getting back youthful skin to make you look as

down dramatically, leading to a deflationary effect on the skin’s surface causing lines, wrinkles and sagging – the scaffolding of the skin is effectively collapsing.

Our trademarked Plasma PenTM rebuilds the scaffolding, strengthening the fibroblasts and giving the cells incredible reinvigoration. This results

in tighter skin and produces a significant lift, achieves a dramatic reduction in fine lines and wrinkles and best of all, you still look like you, just a more

youthful version. The results last for up to three years as it carries on working with the skin’s own regeneration.”

Emma concludes: “Plasma PenTM can be used on all areas of the face and neck and also all over the body where ageing, reduced elasticity and sagging of the skin has occurred. Don’t ever think

it’s too late to make a difference

my clients are proof that that’s not true at all. The results are just incredible and truly speak for themselves at any age.” n

named as an Elite Plasma Technician by Louise Walsh of Plasma Pen International.

Emma explains: “In simple terms, as we age, the dermal layer thins and the production of collagen molecules slows

One of the earliest plasma pioneers in the North West was Emma Pearce, the highly experienced and widely acclaimed owner of EMA Skin Aesthetics Ltd. Emma was quickly

intervention with dental implant placements was crucial in this case.”

Cathy adds: “My general dentist told me I needed to go and see Dr Usman and his team at Renovo for long-term permanent treatment. I plucked up the courage and went.”

THIS LEVEL OF DENTISTRY CHANGES PEOPLE’S LIVES

Following an X-ray and jaw scans, the news was not good for Cathy: “I have always looked after myself and losing my teeth was my idea of hell. It was a terrible shock. Usman said I wouldn’t like dentures but left the decision totally to me. He explained the procedure and reassured me it would be pain free, so I eventually made the decision and agreed to implants.”

Dr Riaz and the award-winning Renovo team set to work, beginning a detailed assessment of what could be done. In the lead up to the same-day, full upper and lower arch implants, Dr Riaz explained the

NEW BEGINNING…

A busy care worker has had her life transformed following pioneering same-day dental implant treatment carried out here in the Ribble Valley

Leading the way in UK implant technology is Lancashire-based Renovo Dental, which was one of the first implant centres in the country to adopt the highly successful, ground-breaking ‘Fully Guided Implant Surgery’ technique.

Highly experienced in this same-day procedure, implant surgeon Dr Usman Riaz and a specialist team, including in-house dental technicians, worked together using the latest digital technology to replace both upper and lower teeth permanently in just over three hours – omitting the need for dentures.

Despite following strict hygiene protocols and advice by her own dentist, Catherine’s gums and bone levels had deteriorated further, causing unsightly gaps in her teeth and several teeth became mobile.

“This is what end-stage gum disease looks like,” Dr Riaz explains. “Unfortunately, genetics were not in the patient’s favour. Typically, this sort of problem develops later in life, but Cathy is relatively young and her teeth were beyond saving.

“At this point, it is less about preserving teeth and all about using the remaining bone and soft tissue to help restore full function, aesthetics and confidence. Timing of the

procedure in detail to Cathy, who arrived at the state-of-the-art surgery in Chatburn, early in the morning.

“Usman and the team were fantastic. It’s not like going to the dentist, it’s like visiting a friend. They explained everything so I wasn’t at all nervous about the procedure. I had got to know them and it is obvious that they are experts in their field,” adds Cathy.

The team, including specialist periodontist Dr Khurrum Hussain along with a team of expert dental technicians, began work eliminating all sources of infection using state-of the-art laser technology, that eradicates over 99 per cent

of all harmful bacteria.

With gum contouring and bone grafts carried out on the same day, Cathy, under sedation, was painlessly fitted with a completely new set of upper and lower implant teeth in a procedure that has made Renovo Dental a flagship practice for this digital, full-arch implant technique.

During their years’ of experience, the team has refined the procedure utilising the latest in-house, digital CT-guided technology that ensures pinpoint accuracy.

This technique for implants is faster, easier and more efficient for the surgeons and safer, and more comfortable, for patients with faster healing times.

“It is Artificial Intelligence with a human touch,” explains Dr Riaz. “Our surgery protocol is a unique concept for digital guidance that allows us to plan and place dental implants with perfect accuracy. It eliminates human error.”

Cathy, who was delighted with the results, adds: “When I looked in the mirror and smiled it was unbelievable. I have always covered my

mouth when I smile because of my teeth.”

The transformation is astounding – Cathy now looks 20 years younger following the procedure and has gained immeasurable confidence: “My teeth look totally natural and I am thrilled!”

Speaking about the team at Renovo Dental, which was named the North of England’s Best Practice and Best Referral Practice at the prestigious Dentistry Awards, Cathy adds: “These guys are incredible. After years of avoiding having pictures taken, I’m incredibly grateful to Usman and his team for their hard work, dedication and patience. You really couldn’t be in safer hands. I now have a new lease of life and can’t stop smiling –thank-you!”

THESE GUYS ARE INCREDIBLE. I CAN’T STOP SMILING – THANK-YOU!

Dr Riaz, who is a highly experienced clinician specialising in aesthetic and implant dentistry, adds: “Obviously, perfect planning and preparation is key to this sort of specialist dentistry.

“The final implant teeth are all hand layered ceramic teeth, crafted by our specialist dental ceramists. We can make as many

changes as we like – to the shape, texture, character and vitality of the teeth. This is truly bespoke, customised dentistry.

“The implants feel like real teeth. In Cathy’s case it has turned back the clock and given her so much confidence. It really is life changing dentistry.” n

Renovo Dental

Pendle House

Clitheroe Road

Chatburn

Clitheroe BB7 4JY  01200 441000  renovodental.co.uk

@renovodental

TO THE RESCUE: HOW AI CAN HELP YOU HEAR

Hearing expert Nish Vasant of Fresh Hearing, talks us through some of the latest AI-driven technology

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a cornerstone of today’s hearing aids, enabling devices to learn and adapt to the user’s environment. Using algorithms, they can distinguish between different sounds, featuring real-time speech enhancement –for example, they can isolate a single voice in a noisy room: “Not being able to hear someone because of background noise is one of the most common issues that patients come to us with,” explains Nish Vasant, who has spent many years in the industry. Nish established Fresh Hearing with the aim of providing patients with the very best diagnostic hearing tests and the very latest technology-driven hearing aids.

The integration of Bluetooth is now standard, while enhanced technology has also enabled the development of smaller designs without sacrificing performance. Taking technology one step further are hearing aids that have sensors that monitor heart rate, detect falls and track physical activity.

At Fresh Hearing Nish and his team of experts are always one step ahead with the very latest devices.

PHONAK AUDÉO INFINIO SPHERE

The Phonak Audéo Sphere Infinio represents a significant leap in hearing technology.

• Dual-Chip Technology: The Infinio Sphere is powered by two advanced chips, the ERA and DEEPSONIC. The ERA chip handles core functions such as sound quality and connectivity, while the DEEPSONIC introduces real-time AI

processing which separates speech from background noise.

• Improved Speech Understanding: The technology uses millions of sound samples to provide an unrivalled signalto-noise ratio making conversations clearer in noisy settings.

• Enhanced Connectivity: The Sphere supports Bluetooth LE Audio, enabling compatibility with a wide range of devices, and offers twice the streaming distance, giving seamless audio streaming.

• Durability and Design: The device is designed for robust performance with water and dust resistance plus a rechargeable battery with up to 16 hours on a single charge.

• Real-Time Adaptability: Unlike traditional hearing aids, the Infinio Sphere constantly adapts to changing environments, ensuring users can engage in conversations effortlessly.

OTICON INTENT

The Oticon Intent hearing aid combines

innovative features tailored to provide a personalised and adaptive auditory experience.

• 4D Sensor Technology: This technology captures data on the user’s acoustic environment, head movements, body activity and conversation to adjust sound processing, enhancing speech clarity by up to 15 per cent in challenging environments, making it ideal for dynamic lifestyles.

• Deep Neural Network (DNN) 2.0: The Intent uses AI-powered sound processing to deliver clearer sound and provides improved access to soft speech reducing listening effort.

• MoreSound Intelligence 3.0: This feature provides precise noise suppression ensuring balanced sound in noisy settings, offering users 35 per cent better access to speech cues.

• Comprehensive Connectivity: It supports Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast for direct streaming and hands-free communication with iOS, android and select Windows devices. Its compatibility with the Oticon Companion app enables remote adjustments and personalised settings.

• Rechargeability: The Intent offers 20 hours of use on a full charge, with rapid charging options. A 15-minute charge provides four hours of usage.

• User-Centric Design: Sleek and discreet, this has self-calibrating speakers for better sound precision and easy fitting. n

Fresh Hearing

65 Lower Deardengate Haslingden BB4 5SN 01706 215479 freshhearing.co.uk

REPAIR, RESTORE & RENEW

Anti-ageing skincare, does it exist and does it work? Happily, the answer is yes, but time and again the science comes back to three, clinically proven, key ingredients – Vitamin C, sunscreen and Vitamin A

The truth behind whether a topical skin product works or not comes down to the ingredients it’s packed with, how that product is formulated and whether or not they contain high enough levels of the active key ingredients to be of any value to the skin.

The point of anti-ageing skincare is to make older, possibly damaged skin behave in a younger and healthier way and this is how these three key ingredients do it.

FIRST UP IS VITAMIN C:

This is one of the most powerful vitamins for preventing the signs of ageing and reversing the signs of skin damage. It is an exceptional antioxidant which protects your skin throughout the day from free radical attack caused by pollutants and it also disrupts the formation of melanin, so helps prevent age spots and promotes even skin tone. It is essential for the formation of collagen –which in turn prevents lines and wrinkles. So, no Vitamin C – no collagen!

NEXT IN YOUR ARSENAL IS SUNSCREEN:

SPF is the most powerful anti-ageing weapon there is – and it is clinically proven, so no argument there. Although if you are younger, you might argue that SPF belongs in the ‘prevention’ category. You also want to ensure that it is broad spectrum, environmentally clean and photostable. It doesn’t fix any damage that is already done –that’s the job of Vitamin A.

THE POWERHOUSE THAT IS VITAMIN A:

Hailed as the gold-standard in anti-ageing, Vitamin A (a retinoid) is one of the most well proven ingredients in skincare. It is the only other ingredient along with SPF that is legally allowed to claim to be anti-ageing.

As we age, loss of Vitamin A and collagen helps create those signs of ageing such as wrinkles and a dull complexion. But retinoids (Vitamin A) can help reverse this.

It rebuilds collagen, increases cell turnover, targets hyperpigmentation, tackles acne, refines skin texture, repairs sun damage, targets wrinkles – and is an all-round good egg. Essentially, it challenges ageing skin to

behave in a younger and healthier way – and so with continued use, you can expect your skin to be smoother brighter and firmer.

But choose your Vitamin A with care – and use it wisely! All Vitamin A products should be phased in over a period of four weeks.

Melt have partnered with Medik8, Nourish and Dr Haushka and are specialists in skincare which is scientifically proven to help ageing skin look younger.

More importantly, they can help guide you on the correct use and entry level for your skin type and age – and advise when to step up to the next level for continued improvement. For a more in-depth telephone consultation, or to book an appointment to discuss this in person, please call 01200 443377. n

Loyalty scheme with all Medik8 purchases, ask instore for details

Melt are also stockists of Powder, Chalk, niche perfumes, cashmere, jewellery and more Retail outlet, Chandlery and Reading Room open seven days a week. 10am-5pm Monday to Saturday and 12 noon-4.30pm on Sundays and Bank Holidays

Melt

Backridge Farm Waddington BB7 3LQ 01200 443377

themeltco.com

/meltcandles

themeltco

@meltcandles

RVBA Small Business Award 2018

Independent Retailer 2017

Artisan Business 2017

FULL CIRCLE…

Thirty-five years since first working in Whalley, hair stylist Cass Preston is back in the village with her luxurious salon The Volume Clinic, writes Gail Bailey

With a full range of services and specialising in colour and hair

replacement, Cass Preston is thrilled to be opening The Volume Clinic at Kellie Hughes Hair and Beauty: “It’s wonderful to have come full circle and be back in Whalley where I began,” she says. “Although I have a private room at Kellie’s, with a separate doorway and entrance, it’s lovely to be part of her friendly team.”

Cass has a wealth of knowledge and expertise in guiding clients to change their hair colour and explore a whole new look: “I pride myself on the time and care I take with each client. A new look is exciting but can be daunting too, in the luxury of The Volume Clinic clients can take their time, chat and enjoy the whole experience,” explains Cass.

Alongside all hair design services The Volume Clinic specialises in treating hair loss using an innovative meshless system: “I understand how distressing thinning hair and hair loss can be, especially as it is often due to illness or stress,” she says. “The meshless system is amazing. It feels exactly like your own hair, is comfortable to wear and more natural than

previous hair replacement solutions.”

Cass adds: “This discreet technique creates volume, enhancing the appearance of your hair and giving a fuller look that lasts up to 10 weeks.” As the salon is completely private, clients can be assured they can talk to Cass confidentially about any hair loss concerns.

For a colour, cut and finish or for guidance on the best hair loss solution for you The Volume Clinic in Whalley is the perfect place and to celebrate being back in the village Cass is offering a 50 per cent discount on any colour with a full price cut and finish for the whole of January 2025 – see the voucher at the bottom of this page and treat yourself in Cass’s expert hands.

“I’m back to my roots in Whalley – and I couldn’t be happier!” she adds. n

Appointments are made directly with Cass on the contact details below.

The Volume Clinic King Street, Whalley BB7 9SP 01254 823333 01254 823333

hello@thevolumeclinic.co.uk

Photography: Kirsten Platt

Photography: Kirsten Platt

As a family business, founded by consultant Dr Grant McKeating and his wife Charlie, RejuvaMed Health & Wellness offers a wide range of treatments to patients in the Ribble Valley, and far beyond, with feedback that is invariably five-star. The clinic’s vision is to bring a wide range of aesthetic and medical treatments to its patients, with the highest levels of quality and safety, giving a patient experience second to none.

Dr Grant has a background as a consultant in anaesthesia. His 12 years of experience as a specialist in medical aesthetics began as a hobby! But he now splits his time between the operating theatre and RejuvaMed. His main interest is full face rejuvenation or the ‘full liquid face lift’ in patients whose faces have sagged as they age.

Dr Grant is a specialist in medical weight loss treatments, and RejuvaMed’s CQC registered weight loss centre offers medical assessment with prescription of medication to assist with weight loss. Our 3D-Lipo, Forma and Morpheus8 systems allow us to freeze stubborn pockets of fat, reduce waist circumference and tighten loose skin.

Nurse Helen is also part of the aesthetics team, with a particular interest in anti-wrinkle treatments and lip augmentation.

RejuvaMed’s aestheticians Rachael and Gemma carry out the incredible original Morpheus 8 non-surgical facelift, in addition to miraDry permanent sweat reduction, for those with problem

LANCASHIRE’S LEADING

AESTHETICS, HEALTH & WELLNESS CLINIC

RejuvaMed Health & Wellness has been established at its beautiful Holmes Mill location in Clitheroe for nearly eight years. During that time, it has established itself as a centre of excellence for cosmetic and medical care

sweat in their armpits. Patients travel from all over the country for this life changing treatment.

Skin rejuvenation is vital if we are to freshen our look. Medical grade ZO Skin Health products for home use form a part of this, with the celebrity HydraFacial in-clinic adding to that new look. For those with deep lines, scarring or pigmentation, RejuvaMed’s fractional CO2 laser gives amazing results with little downtime.

Dr Raza, the clinic’s dermatologist, treats various skin conditions and will remove moles and cysts, with appointments usually available within a few days.

Dr Helen, RejuvaMed’s expert GP with an interest in women’s health, offers consultations for bioidentical HRT (BHRT) which is an individually tailored, more natural form of HRT. She also treats women who have issues with stress incontinence with

TREATMENTS AVAILABLE AT REJUVAMED

• anti-wrinkle treatment

• varicose vein procedures

• medical weight loss

• body sculpting

• CO2 laser skin resurfacing

• HydraFacial

• non-surgical face lift

• dermatology

• miraDry sweat reduction

• surgical eyelid lift

• women’s health / BHRT

• polynucleotides

LINDA WAS DELIGHTED WITH THE INCREDIBLE RESULTS OF HER MORPHEUS8 NON-SURGICAL FACELIFT AT REJUVAMED

the Vjuve laser system, which offers an alternative to surgery.

Mr Perricone, consultant vascular surgeon, heads up the clinic’s varicose vein centre, the only private specialist vein centre in Lancashire and provides ‘walk-in walk-out’ treatments for varicose veins under local anaesthesia.

Mr Patel, consultant oculoplastic surgeon, undertakes upper blepharoplasty (upper eyelid lift) at RejuvaMed, again under a simple local anaesthetic. For those with lax or sagging upper eyelids, the only effective option is surgery. n

Visit rejuvamed.co.uk or call 01200 538668, for more information.

RejuvaMed Health & Wellness

Holmes Cottage, Woone Lane

Clitheroe BB7 1BG 01200 538668

rejuvamed.co.uk

MENOPAUSE ACTION PLAN: Angela is also passionate in treating mature women struggling with the changes in their skin due to the menopause, helping them regain their confidence and feel more youthful. At a free consultation Angela will devise a course of treatments tailored for you, she is keen to stress that this is a journey you go on together over the coming months and not an overnight quick fix.

VITARAN 1 & II: One of Angela’s latest additions to her list of anti-ageing treatments is the revolutionary VITARAN I & II, the first-ever 100 per cent quality-controlled polynucleotide injectable, signifying the pinnacle of aesthetic innovation. Derived from 100 per cent purified fragments of trout DNA, VITARAN has anti-inflammatory properties and stimulates collagen and elastin synthesis for skin rejuvenation. Perfect for puffy eyes and dark circles.

REDEFINE YOURSELF…

Redefine yourself in 2025 and regain your confidence with Angela Kays specialist services that promise to make you feel more like ‘you’ again.

Photography: Kirsten Platt

This New Year it’s time to unveil a revitalised you! Angela Kays brings you the perfect blend of professional expertise, experience and personalised care, offering ‘tweakments’ that are tailored especially to you helping you be the best version of yourself!

Operating from the popular Conference Centre at Brockhall Village and Warner Street, Accrington, Angela, with over 25 years of industry experience, says: “My clients love the privacy and professional atmosphere of the Conference Centre and also the modern feel of the Accrington salon.”

Presenting an array of innovative treatments, Angela elaborates on her cutting-edge techniques:

LASER TATTOO REMOVAL: Angela is excited to introduce this January – laser tattoo removal, for removing body tattoos but mainly for eyebrows that have a build-up of colour through microblading or semipermanent make up. “Many women approach me for brow correction due to dissatisfaction of shape or colour change over time,” says Angela, a regional expert on brow microblading. “With a few laser sessions to remove the colour, brows can be easily rectified or started from scratch.”

Other treatments available:

SEVENTY HYAL: Seventy Hyal is still a very popular treatment with clients. The Seventy Hyal skin booster is an injectable that’s not a filler or permanent and doesn’t freeze anything. It’s essentially an injectable moisturiser containing 100 per cent synthetic hyaluronic acid (HA) injected by a tiny needle. It triggers natural collagen production and provides intense hydration, rendering a glowing natural healthy look to the skin. The results are very subtle but noticeably improve skin health and overall appearance.

SEMI PERMANENT LIP COLOUR:

Angela, has over 25 years’ experience in semi-permanent make-up, skilfully enhancing brows, eyes and lips. Lip colouring, is becoming a very popular treatment, seen lately with celebrities in ‘I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here’. Lip colour/lip blush gives lips back their colour and definition, which in return makes them appear so much more youthful. This procedure, lasting up to three

years, offers definition and colour while still looking entirely natural, perfect for those desiring fuller looking lips without fillers.

MICROBLADING: Still one of Angela’s favourite treatments, creating natural hair like strokes to give you back your brows, so it’s one less thing to worry about applying correctly or evenly.

WRINKLE RELAXING INJECTIONS:

This is still an ongoing favourite with all ages being classed as ‘magic’ by Angela herself who has had wrinkle relaxing injections since she was 30 – it is an all-time favourite to smooth out fine lines and prevent static lines becoming deeper and more permanent.

RF MICRONEEDLING: RF microneedling, is a cosmetic procedure that combines two advanced technologies – microneedling and radiofrequency (RF). Tiny needles penetrate the skin causing a slight trauma which causes the skin to stimulate the body’s natural healing response, promoting collagen and elastin production – added radiofrequency as the needles penetrate, cause skin tightening. This procedure is very comfortable as a topical numbing cream is applied prior. The downtime is minimal as light therapy is given after the treatment with a biostimulating mask to dramatically reduce any redness.

LASER HAIR REMOVAL: Remove unwanted hair painlessly and swiftly with the advanced Elysion hair removal laser machine, up to five times faster than previous IPL or laser treatments. Suitable for all skin colours.

DERMAPLANING: A medical-grade blade is used to mechanically exfoliate the top layer of skin reducing fine lines and wrinkles and leaving your skin radiant, fresh and ready to absorb future products. This is

ANNOUNCEMENT! SPACE AVAILABLE AT ANGELA KAYS

If you are a physiotherapist/chiropodist or similar, this spacious room (pictured) with sink and all bills included, is available within Angela Kays clinic at the Brockhall Village Conference Centre.

For more details call Angela: 07813 195888

exceptional when combined with Seventy Hyal skin booster.

BODY SCULPT: Equivalent of 20 thousand sit ups or squats in just 30mins, the body sculpt machine at Angela Kays uses electromagnetic wave technology, penetrating up to 8cm into the muscle to stimulate and perform strong contractions, resulting in a more effective ‘gym’ work-out that sees rapid results.

SIENNA X SPRAY TAN: With various natural-looking shades and unbeatable results, this vegan spray tan also contains a number of nourishing ingredients to give you that instant boost of colour and confidence. n

Angela Kays

The Conference Centre

Brockhall Village BB6 8AY

Angela Kays

46 Warner Street

Accrington BB5 1HN 07813 195888

angelakays.co.uk

5* rating on Google, Trip Advisor & Facebook

Top-rated salon on Treatwell

WELLBEING & JOY

Faye Bailey has brought joy into the lives of many through her singing for wellbeing groups, which reach out across the generations

Talented vocalist and musician Faye Bailey has always known singing gives people the fun, feel-good factor. And, that’s why she has set up singing for wellbeing groups that are being held across the Ribble Valley.

From tots to teens, super-mums to seniors everyone enjoys Faye’s unique singing groups.

A former student at Accrington and Rossendale College where she studied an HND in Music, Faye, who plays the piano, went on to become a music teacher in New York: “I spotted an ad online wanting teachers for children at a summer camp in America and I absolutely loved it!” recalls Faye. “If I could do it all again, I would definitely go back there.”

While looking for teaching posts back home, Faye had a spell working for dad Gary in the family business and she also worked as an extra on Coronation Street and Emmerdale: “I had an agent in Manchester and by chance I got to work on set alongside some well-known actors. But they were long days – early starts and late finishes and a lot of commuting so I knew I couldn’t really keep it up.”

At the time Faye was working in Bolton and by coincidence she would park her car next door to a music school: “I just plucked up courage and asked if there were any jobs going. There was – they needed a vocal coach!”

After two years Faye decided to go it alone

and returning to her Ribble Valley roots, she set up her own business, starting off with just one student.

She began to expand and as word got around, she was asked to set up a sing-for-fun choir in Mellor, which turned out to be such a success that she went on to set up other singing-for-wellness groups within the area.

SINGING IS GREAT STIMULATION FOR YOUNG CHILDREN TOO, HELPING THEM WITH THEIR DEVELOPMENT

In 2018 Faye gave birth to her daughter Sophia and moved, as a single mum, to Salesbury: “It was quite a tricky time trying to run a business with a new baby and then the pandemic struck, so of course the singing lessons and choirs ground to a halt,” recounts Faye, who went on to streamline and re-build the business.

Keeping her original Mellor choir going, Faye launched Tea, Tots & Tunes – a mums and toddler group where young mums can meet, socialise and sing. She was also asked to set up additional wellbeing singing groups: “Everything started to fall into place,” says Faye, who went on to set up the Music and Wellbeing Project – a Community Interest

Company, which is a non-profit organisation that provides music for wellbeing, including a dementia-friendly singing group supported by a team of eight volunteers.

The launch of her Tea, Tots and Tunes groups has been one of her most successful ventures: “I particularly wanted to help single mums as I had been in that position. I know how singing can enhance wellbeing as it has always helped me.

“Singing is great stimulation for young children too, helping them with their development.

“The Tea, Tots and Tunes groups are unique in that they are singing playgroups which is free to those on universal credit – so it’s particularly nice for mums all in the same position, who can empathise with others. It is very discreet but open to everyone.

“For many single mums, playgroups are often seen as a luxury, but this shouldn’t be the case,” explains Faye, who attracts sponsorship through the Music and Wellbeing Project to fund various community groups.

“We are able to keep costs down while

providing breakfast for our Tea, Tots and Tunes wellbeing session and lunch and music for our Memories, dementia-friendly singing group.”

Speaking about her Memories group, Faye adds: “Singing makes all the difference –whatever the stage of dementia. People come

in with their carers or family and we sing, dance and play simple musical instruments for one-and-a-half hours. The benefits are huge and not just for those suffering from dementia as it gives the carers a much-needed break too.

MUSIC CAN EASE ANGUISH AND WORRY, ENHANCE WELLNESS – IT IS A WONDERFUL FORM OF THERAPY

“Caring for a loved one in that situation can be absolutely physically and mentally exhausting so carers too get the benefit. It’s often the highlight of their week.

“Personally, I love it – it is very rewarding,” says Faye, who works alongside her eight dedicated volunteers and the Dementia Alliance Network to bring the classes and resources to the Ribble Valley.

“I have always loved singing and playing the piano and I feel so privileged to be able to do it as a job. Music can ease anguish and worry, enhance wellness – it is a wonderful form of therapy.” n

Tea, Tots and Tunes wellbeing groups are held on Wednesday 10am (funded free admission for families on universal credit) and on Friday (non-funded) at 10am in Billington and Langho Community Centre.

Memories all-ability dementia-friendly singing group, every Wednesday 11.30am–1pm including lunch option.

Singing choirs are held in Mellor on Tuesday at 6pm (Harmony Group) and Whalley on Thursday at 6.45pm (Sing for Fun).

themusicwellbeingproject

Mindful Movement

Fuelmizas, Bee Mill Preston Road, Ribchester PR3 3XJ 07738 405277 suzanneastley@hotmail.com mindfulmovementbysue.co.uk

Mindful Movement (Whalley Physiotherapy) Victory House, The Sidings Whalley BB7 9SE

A CALMER SPACE…

Mindful Movement can improve fitness, flexibility and give you the knowledge to use your body well

With her Mindful Movement classes, somatic therapist, ballet, yoga and contemporary movement professional Suzanne Astley AISTD, Dip Arts, BA Hons, QTS, MA, can enhance wellbeing and strength.

Having worked at the highest level with the Royal Academy of Dance, London, Suzanne has

established her unique skillset in the heart of the Ribble Valley and has recently extended her classes to a studio at The Sidings in Whalley where she runs somatic movement classes, barre and core sessions and rehab movement therapy.

Located in Victory House, the home of Whalley Physiotherapy, Mindful Movement helps clients move in a better way,

MINDFUL MOVEMENT CLASSES WHALLEY SOMATIC MOVEMENT

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

Tuesday & Thursday: 11am– 12 noon

REHAB MOVEMENT THERAPY

Wednesday: 1pm–2pm

improving posture, alignment and core stability.

Suzanne, whose expertise has helped rehabilitate people with serious injury, back and hip pain and musculoskeletal problems, leads clients through classes with controlled breathing and movement, promoting relaxation and rejuvenation: “Mindful movement helps calm the nervous system to take you out of fight or flight mode into a much calmer space.” n

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

ONE-TO-ONE SOMATIC MOVEMENT

By appointment

MINDFUL MOVEMENT CLASSES RIBCHESTER SOMATIC YOGA CLASSES

Tuesday: 6pm–7pm

Saturday: 10am–11am ADULT BALLET

Wednesday: 6.45pm–7.45pm

CONSULTING ROOMS in Manchester Wigan Liverpool Warrington Preston Burnley Blackburn DR KIM WHITAKER DR KIM WHITAKER

ASSESSMENTS are CALL 01615490866

If you or someone you know has cancer, you may find it helpful to talk to someone who understands what you’re going through. A team who can provide personal support and expert information. That’s what we do.

If you or someone you know has cancer, you may find it helpful to talk to someone who understands what you’re going through. A team who can provide personal support and expert information. That’s what we do.

So if you have any questions about your treatment, concerns about your finances or just want to talk, you don’t need to go through it alone. We’re here for you.

So if you have any questions about your treatment, concerns about your finances or just want to talk, you don’t need to go through it alone. We’re here for you.

Call the Macmillan Support Line free on 0808 808 00 00 (Mon

or visit macmillan.org.uk

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

DIVORCE: A GATEWAY TO NEW BEGINNINGS

Divorce marks the end of one chapter, but also opens the door to new beginnings, writes Rubina Vohra, Partner in the Family and Divorce Department at Forbes Solicitors

Divorce is undeniably a time of upheaval and emotional complexity – it marks the beginning of something new, a chance to rebuild and redefine who you are. The transition is challenging but it holds the most potential for personal growth and fresh opportunities.

EMBRACING THE END AS A NEW START

The end of a marriage is never easy. It brings with it a mix of emotions – grief, anger, relief and uncertainty. Within this ending lies the seed of a new beginning. Divorce provides you with an opportunity to reassess your values and priorities and allows you to move forward with the clearest sense of purpose.

A key aspect of navigating this transition is shifting the narrative and taking control. Rather than focusing on loss, consider what this new chapter could bring. What part of yourself has been dormant? What dreams have you set aside? Divorce, whilst painful, creates a space to explore these questions, taking positive steps towards a fulfilling future.

BUILDING YOUR LIFE

• Reconnecting with yourself – Divorce can be a time to rediscover passions, hobbies and aspects of your identity that were set aside during the marriage. The opportunity to focus on self-care and explore new interests.

• Redefining relationships – While divorce ends one relationship, it can strengthen others. Friends, family and support groups can provide valuable connection and guidance as you adjust to your new life.

• Creating new goals – Whether pursuing a career change, moving to a new location or achieving a better work-life balance, divorce offers the chance to set new goals and build the life you’ve desired, on your terms.

CHALLENGES ALONG THE WAY

New beginnings don’t come without hurdles. Coping with loneliness, financial adjustments or co-parenting dynamics can feel

overwhelming. Being advised and supported is extremely important.

Ensuring stability for children is key. Communication and reassurance help them adjust to the new family structure. If communication is challenging, we can assist with available options.

FINDING STRENGTH IN A CHANGE

Divorce often feels like a breaking point, it takes strength to make the decision. Choosing to leave a relationship that no longer serves you is an act of courage. If you didn’t decide to end the relationship, it is destabilising and heartbreaking. Each person’s journey through divorce is unique and Forbes Solicitors are here to assist you with whatever level of help and support you need.

HOW A SPECIALIST FORBES FAMILY DIVORCE SOLICITOR CAN HELP

Divorce can be overwhelming, but a specialist family solicitor can offer crucial support. We can help you understand your rights on asset division, child custody and spousal support, ensuring informed decisions. With expert guidance, you can focus on rebuilding your life while knowing the legal aspects are in capable hands. Forbes Solicitors understands the emotional challenges of divorce and provides sensitive, professional support to achieve the best outcome for your future. n

Rubina Vohra is a Partner in the Family and Divorce department at Forbes Solicitors. For further information or assistance, please contact the team on 0333 207 1130.

When you talk with one of our team you’ll receive clear legal advice from people who are easy to talk to and responsive to your needs. We want to give you confidence in every decision we make together.

WALKING FOR PLEASURE

Writer and walking guide Mark Sutcliffe has launched a new walking book based on short walks around the Ribble Valley

While many of Mark Sutcliffe’s previous books have included lengthy, challenging walks, his latest is aimed at casual walkers-for-pleasure, who are maybe new to the Ribble Valley or those looking for inspiration.

Published by Cicerone, Mark’s new guide Fifteen Short Walks: Ribble Valley, features the best short walks all under three hours, with no challenging terrain or complicated navigation, making them perfect for families with children and anyone simply looking to get out and about in the fresh air.

“While serious walkers love a challenge, they are only a small part of the walking fraternity. Most walkers just enjoy being out in the countryside, knowing it’s good for their health and wellbeing,” says Mark, who lives and works in Clitheroe.

“Cicerone realised that there is a real enthusiasm out there for shorter more manageable walks – and the Ribble Valley is the perfect place to do this.”

With its rolling countryside and wooded river valleys, the Ribble Valley is a genuine

walker’s paradise. From riverside rambles to gentle afternoon ambles through scenic villages, this unspoilt corner of rural Lancashire offers a huge selection of circular walks and an abundance of welcoming village pubs, friendly cafés and historic country inns.

DESIGNED TO BE ENJOYED BY ANYONE WITH A REASONABLE LEVEL OF FITNESS, ALL THE WALKS ARE UNDER SIX MILES IN LENGTH

“This new guide explores the mid-Ribble Valley – from the historic market town of Clitheroe and the pretty villages like Whalley, Waddington, Downham, Longridge and Hurst Green. I’ve also included a really nice linear walk along the Ribble Way from Sawley back to Clitheroe.”

Designed to be enjoyed by anyone with a reasonable level of fitness, all the walks are under six miles in length with less than 300m of climbing and can be comfortably

completed in two-and-a-half to three hours.

“This guide is really for people who enjoy social walking with friends and family. You can take the dogs and the kids and comfortably complete most of the walks in this book. It’s not for the hardened mountain hiker,” says Mark, who carried out extensive research to map out the 15 short walks.

“The walks in this book are much easier, mostly lowland and there is no tricky navigation. The book is very user-friendly and you can download the routes to your phone.”

Mark also does his own photography for the books: “I spent time over the winter months mapping out the routes then in May, I walked and photographed all the routes, checking that all the directions are correct and all the gates and stiles are in good order.

“Obviously, it’s all very weather dependent – but you can get some absolutely stunning pictures on these routes all year round – they are very Instagrammable!”

Most of the walks can be completed at any time of year although some routes may become muddy after heavy rain. The best times of year to visit are late spring/early summer or early autumn, as Mark explains: “My favourite walks often depend on my mood and the weather. If it’s a windy day you may want to take shelter in the valley bottom or quiet woodland and avoid blustery summits.”

A former editor of Lakeland Walker and Country Walking magazines, Mark has explored the UK and Europe on foot and is passionate about walking as a route to wellbeing. His guide to Walking in Lancashire – also published by Cicerone –was published in 2021 and took around three years to complete.

“I really enjoyed researching the Short Walks book as walking in the Ribble Valley is an absolute pleasure. I have been walking

WALKING IN THE RIBBLE VALLEY IS AN ABSOLUTE PLEASURE. I HAVE BEEN WALKING ALL OVER THE UK AND EUROPE AND WHAT WE HAVE HERE IS VERY SPECIAL

all over the UK and what we have here is very special – it’s right up there with popular walking destinations like the Cotswolds or the South Downs.

“Some of the woodland walks we have in the Ribble Valley are stunning. One of my favourites is near Ribchester in springtime, when the ground is carpeted with bluebells, and often, these woodland walks are just as good in the autumn.” n

Short Walks in the Ribble Valley by Mark Sutcliffe is £9.95 and is available at good bookshops, Holmes Mill in Clitheroe and online at: cicerone.co.uk

scenery, Kerala’s Ayurveda retreats offer personalised wellness plans based on your unique needs, making this destination truly transformative. Not to mention, you can experience a traditional stay on a backwater houseboat.

TOP WELLNESS ESCAPES

From Italy to Indonesia, Dan Hyams discovers some of the world’s top wellness resorts

If you’re feeling the effects of overdoing it this Christmas and New Year, a wellness retreat could be just the thing to help you unwind, reconnect and truly reset. From Bali’s lush rainforests to the rolling vineyards of Tuscany, these destinations offer unique paths to relaxation and wellness. I’ll take you to five incredible places that are perfect for a well-deserved dose of calm, and if any of them call to you, let’s chat – I’d love to help you make it happen.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali is a wellness wonderland and Ubud, its spiritual heart, is ideal if you’re looking to completely relax. Surrounded by jungle and terraced rice fields, Ubud has a magical energy that makes it feel miles away from ordinary life. You’ll find luxurious wellness retreats here, with yoga, meditation and traditional healing therapies that all combine Balinese culture with natural beauty. Even a simple walk through the village or along the rice terraces feels calming, making Ubud the perfect spot for a soulful escape.

Stay: COMO Shambhala Estate offers an all-encompassing wellness experience with yoga classes, jungle views and daily spa treatments.

Sedona, Arizona, USA

So, why go? Sedona’s desert landscape is stunning, with red rock formations and a reputation for its ‘energy vortexes’. Known for its spiritual energy, Sedona is a powerful place for healing and self-discovery. Start your mornings with a hike to witness the sunrise over the rocks, then spend your day at a spa inspired by native American healing. With crystal therapies, energy work and hot stone massages, Sedona’s wellness offerings are a unique fusion of natural beauty and spiritual wellness.

Stay: The Enchantment Resort includes spa treatments and guided energy sessions all with the most stunning, red rock mountain backdrop.

Kerala, India

With a focus on ancient healing, Kerala is the birthplace of Ayurveda, one of the oldest wellness systems in the world. Here, wellness means more than just relaxation, it’s about realigning body and mind through authentic detox programmes, massages and meditation. Set along beautiful backwaters and lush

Stay: The Carnoustie Ayurveda & Wellness Resort. Ayurvedic treatments and yoga is a real highlight.

Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany offers a blend of countryside charm, rolling vineyards and therapeutic hot springs – perfect for a relaxing escape. The area is famous for its thermal springs, ideal for a luxurious soak after a day spent exploring the countryside. A Tuscan wellness retreat lets you savour Mediterranean cuisine, pamper yourself with Italian-inspired spa treatments and enjoy leisurely hikes through some of the world’s most picturesque scenery. It’s a wellness break where relaxation meets indulgence.

Stay: The Adler Thermae Spa & Resort includes half-board, access to mineral pools and stunning views.

Each of these destinations offers something truly special. If any of these sound like your perfect escape, reach out, and I’d be delighted to help you plan the wellness journey that’s just right for you. Let’s make your next trip one that rejuvenates your mind and soul and leaves you refreshed and inspired! n

travelcounsellors.co.uk/dan.hyams

REINDEER MYSTERY

In a sleepy town nestled in the heart of the Ribble Valley, someone was busy spreading a little cheer during the festivities

In the run-up to Christmas people in the Ribble Valley awoke to find a delightful herd of small wooden reindeer, handcrafted with care, had made their way to their doorstep.

The team at Whalley-based LANX, wanted to say a big ‘Merry Christmas’ to the residents of their hometown with a unique handmade gift.

LANX founder Marco Vaghetti explains: ‘‘We get a great deal of support from our local community and wanted to take the

opportunity to thank them with a little surprise – our very own festive friend LANXY.

“A couple of Christmases ago, I spotted these charming, handmade wooden reindeer and introduced myself to their creator Gordon. Typically, he only makes around a dozen each year for friends and family, but this year he kindly agreed to create 100 especially for us. We’re very grateful for all the time and effort he’s put into helping us with our mystery mission!”

Each reindeer was beautifully handcrafted with care, using reclaimed wood, pinecones and other natural treasures, which means each reindeer has its own unique character.

To spread the spirit of giving and goodwill LANX also ran a special Christmas competition and charity donation to win a pair of LANX boots and a £500 donation to

the winner’s chosen charity.

The delighted winner was Andrya Prescott, who agreed to allow LANX to auction off her LANXY reindeer to raise more money for her chosen charity Safenet – which supports survivors of domestic abuse in Lancashire and Manchester.

And in lieu of giving up LANXY for auction, in addition to the boots that Andrya won, she also got a LANX hat and scarf. n

The LANX Go Fund Me page raised over £1,000 while the LANXY auction continued until 15th December. Go to the LANX Instagram page to find out the total amount raised, which will also go to the winner’s chosen charity.

lanxshoes.com/pages/lanxy safenet.org.uk @lanxshoes

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

YOUNG FARMERS

Clitheroe Young Farmers Club (CYF) recently donated £5,500 to the UK Sepsis Trust. With members aged 10 to 26, CYF chose the charity as it is very close to the club’s heart. The members are hoping to raise awareness of sepsis within the farming community. Over the last year funds were predominantly raised from the club’s Tractor Run and Muck Haul. The annual Christmas Tractor Run, which is always a big success, sees 150 tractors covered in fairy lights, lighting up the Ribble Valley while the Muck Haul saw 100 wheelbarrows, 330 bags and three trailers of muck delivered in and around Clitheroe for people to use in their gardens. The club now hopes that they can raise even more for Yellow Wellies, a charity focusing on farm safety and mental health in the farming community.

BONFIRE RAISES COMMUNITY CASH

Clitheroe Castle Bonfire once again made record profits to plough back into local charities from this year’s annual display. Over 15 organisations will benefit from their share of £16,000 made at the town’s popular event. The Castle Bonfire is run by a team of volunteers and supported by the town’s service clubs and is one of Clitheroe’s major fund-raising activities of the year. The aim is to provide all-round value entertainment for the town while raising funds to directly benefit the community itself. Every penny is for the town and stays within Clitheroe.

WILDLIFE CHALLENGE

Lancashire Wildlife Trust (LWT) recently asked locals to join its biggestever fundraising campaign to help protect one of the region’s most beloved native species, the red squirrel, which faces ongoing threats from habitat loss, competition from the invasive grey squirrel and squirrel pox – a deadly virus carried by grey squirrels. To help to tackle these threats, LWT took part in the Big Give Christmas Challenge, an exciting opportunity to double every donation made during the campaign. Every penny raised will go directly towards LWT’s red squirrel conservation project, a cornerstone of their most ambitious fundraising initiative yet – the ‘Step Up for Wildlife’ appeal. “This isn’t just about saving red squirrels – it’s about creating a legacy of hope and action for all wildlife,” said Molly Frost, Red Squirrel Conservation Officer.

CLIMATE ACTION

The Marsden Building Society Charitable Foundation has donated £2,800 to Nature Warriors’ Custodians of the Earth initiative to empower young people to reduce their carbon footprint. Nature Warriors, based in Brierfield, encourages local people to get active and enjoy the great outdoors. With this funding, the organisation will deliver 30 environmental education sessions for young people. The sessions will run until spring 2025, focusing on practical ways for young people to reduce their carbon footprint, including recycling, growing food and litter pick-ups, whilst advocating local holidays to reduce air miles.

Photography:

LEAVE YOUR CARES BEHIND

We

all need to recharge our batteries occasionally – and what better way than to take a break in a luxury retreat surrounded by nature? Tedd Walmsley enjoys a relaxing stay at Everything Retreat

Right here on our doorstep is the incredible Everything Retreat. Nestled in the stunning Ribble Valley, the 12 luxury lodges have breathtaking views and allow you to completely immerse yourself in nature. I must stress at this point that to get the most from the retreat you would need a minimum of two but ideally three nights to experience fully the true value of an escape from daily life pressures, giving you a real opportunity to recalibrate and connect with both yourself and loved ones.

Before you arrive the excellent concierge service will have been in touch to personalise your stay and offer friendly help and advice on how to get the most from your trip –wellness reservations, restaurant bookings and advice on local places to visit, walks and events are all part of the stellar service here. From check-in to check-out the vibe is

both relaxed and professional, nothing has been left to chance and the welcome you receive is second to none. The lodges blend seamlessly into their hillside surroundings and are perfectly prepared for your arrival. On the stroll to our lodge there was a sense of calm, fresh air and bird song, an initial step change from a busy week of hard work.

Our visit was mid-week in early winter, arriving on a stunning sunny day. With coffee brewed and a sweet treat in hand we sat on the patio and contemplated what we had in store for our mini-break.

The on-site Balance bar and restaurant gave us several options. Having just arrived we were reluctant to leave our cosy home away from home on the first night. A super selection of food and drink is available and can be served either in the lodge or in the bar itself, just a stone’s throw from the lodge. They’ve also curated an excellent, great value

wine list to complement the food offering. Breakfast is served hot or cold and delivered personally to your lodge creating an ideal and relaxing start to the day.

The joy of the Ribble Valley is the plethora of amazing, award-winning restaurants for both lunch and dinner. There are great walks to work up an appetite. With two market towns and numerous lovely villages to explore with maps provided, the area is a truly fabulous place to visit.

I noticed one or two well-behaved dogs at the retreat too – being dog friendly is an added bonus to those who want to bring their canine friends along.

The burgeoning reputation of Everything Retreat is well founded. Our stay from start to finish was sensational. Winter is a fantastic time to visit, and their social media and website is frequently updated to let you know what great added value and special rates might be available.

Most guests say they didn’t book in for long enough but promise to return. We left relaxed and with batteries recharged – the perfect antidote to our usually chaotic life!

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner there could be no better venue for a romantic break. n

retreat

Everything Retreat Primrose Hill, Mellor BB2 7EQ  01254 965095  hello@everything-retreat.com  everything-retreat.com

IN THE SADDLE

Looking at the year ahead, Chipping Pony Club has plenty to offer for both new and returning members, with the core values of the Pony Club at the heart of everything, writes Megan Conlon

Throughout the winter months, Chipping Pony Club has the ongoing Winter League qualifiers in Dressage and Show Jumping. The top teams and individuals in these disciplines qualify for a prestigious place at the Barrier Spring Festival at the start of March, where they can compete at national level against fellow Pony Club members from around the UK. In addition to this, we also have the Winter League Mounted Games tournament, where teams race furiously around obstacles, picking up flags or boxes and manoeuvring them with speed and precision. Another activity (this time unmounted) to kick off the new year is the Pony Club Quiz, which is far from your average pub quiz, and is

instead a competitive battle of knowledge on all-things-horses and all things Pony Club! Members will compete to qualify for a spot in the national final, where they can quiz against the best from around the country.

THERE IS SO MUCH TO DO AND SO MUCH VARIETY FOR DIFFERENT AGE GROUPS AND INTERESTS

Among all of this, of course, we will continue to have training sessions across all the disciplines offered by the Pony Club, allowing members to improve no matter what their ability or age. A core type of training session is the working rally, where members

receive expert tuition on both flatwork and jumping and often have the opportunity to earn badges in Stable Management sessions.

All of these activities will eventually lead us out of the cold and back into the warmer months where we are working towards the Area competitions. Every discipline has one: Dressage, Show Jumping, Eventing, Mounted Games, even Horse and Pony Care and the aforementioned quiz! Here, members can really put into practice all the work they have done at the start of the year and they could even qualify for the National Championships in August.

Chipping Pony Club can offer so much to the enthusiastic youngster and there have been lifelong friendships formed, both between members and with their ponies! There is always something to look forward to and something to aim for, always a goal to drive members’ perseverance. There is so much to do and so much variety for different age groups and different interests.

As I’m writing this, as a 21-year-old member of Chipping Pony Club, who is the third generation in my family to be part of this wonderful organisation, it is hard to imagine how my life would be without all the opportunities this club has afforded me. There is plenty more information about the Pony Club online and the Chipping branch can be found at branches.pcuk.org/chipping/ where you can see more of our upcoming calendar. 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

UNBELIEVABLY EXCITING!

What a massive thrill it was to see our horse, Vintage Fizz, running in the Grand Sefton Chase at Aintree recently over the famous Grand National fences, writes Jason Fildes

We’ve owned Vintage Fizz since 2020 when we set up a small syndicate of eight owners to buy him from a stud farm in Cheshire. We sent him to be trained by Jedd and Andrea O’Keeffe at their fabulous yard on the edge of Middleham Moor, near Leyburn. It’s a proper family business and there is always a lovely welcome with coffee and toast aplenty, in their snug kitchen.

We’ve had a terrific few years! Vintage Fizz has run in 24 races at various northern racecourses, during which time all of the syndicate have become great friends and our WhatsApp group is always busy!

So here we are, at Aintree, a 20/1 outsider of the 13 runners in the Grand Sefton Chase, the highlight of that Saturday afternoon of racing – there’s ITV coverage and a huge crowd in attendance.

There’s a large group of us, his owners full of nervous anticipation, fuelled by a few drinks and an excellent lunch in the owners restaurant.

To stand in the paddock at Aintree before a big race is a thrilling experience in itself, let alone when your horse is about to run! Our jockey, Conor O’Farrell appears in our usual colours and advises us that the ‘plan’

is to take our time, stick to the inside and get him into a good rhythm of jumping.

We head up to the top of the stands together to watch the race. It’s fabulous viewing at Aintree because you’re on the actual roof of the grandstands so it’s high enough to see right around the course.

I won’t go through the whole race but suffice to say that when you’re watching, every sense in your body is heightened to a maximum as each jump is taken!

Conor has him towards the back of the field as they all jump safely over the huge Chair fence and head past the grandstands for the first time – all going to plan.

VINTAGE FIZZ IS JUMPING SUPERBLY AND BEGINNING TO MAKE UP GROUND, HE FLIES BECHERS

Vintage Fizz is jumping superbly and beginning to make up ground, he flies Bechers and nips up the inside at the Canal Turn. The commentator begins to mention his name and Conor gets him to join the back of the leading group as they cross the Melling Road for the second time. Only two to jump and, thrillingly he’s there with a chance. He flies the second last, jumps the last in fourth and by the elbow he’s second and making ground on the long-time leader. It’s too late, however and the winner has got enough in hand. It’s a wonderful run from Vintage Fizz, who has finished second!

We are all leaping around and hugging each other before running down to greet Conor and our boy. It’s a blur as everyone is congratulating us, journalists want to ask questions, but the main priority is to hear what Conor has to say. He reports Vintage Fizz appears to have loved the experience, he’s given him a super ride and a great thrill too. Like us, Jedd is absolutely delighted and we all head off for a glass (or two) of celebratory champagne!

What a day, what a horse – and so much more fun to have a large team of owners and friends there to share it with. All in all, a wonderful experience. n

Jason Fildes

Fine Claret Racing 07721 311778

fildesracing@gmail.com

Emma adds: “I think one of the key things that sets us apart is that we don’t rush people.” There is a minimum client visit time of 30 minutes. Crossroads pays staff travel time and they have ongoing training and development and lots of support from the Clitheroe-based management team.

I THINK ONE OF THE KEY THINGS IS THAT WE DON’T RUSH PEOPLE

The charity also runs a range of wonderful and subsidised regular events to support local carers. For those living with dementia or memory loss and their carers, there is ‘Time for You’ which takes place at West Bradford Village Hall every Thursday from 10.30am to 12 noon. There are lots of activities on offer – crafts, evocative music, entertainments and games – as well as tea, coffee, biscuits and cake. Then, of course, it’s eyes down for the popular bingo session!

SHOWING YOU CARE…

There is no-one who understands the challenges and rewards of caring for loved ones in this area like Crossroads Care

Many people don’t realise that Crossroads Care is a not-forprofit Charity Incorporated Organisation which provides the highest quality domiciliary care for residents of the Ribble Valley area.

Emma Sorrell, general manager, explains: “Our focus is on providing at-home care and we’ve been supporting local residents and their carers for more than 30 years now. Our youngest client is 16 and our oldest 96. I think the fact that we’re a charity, the variety of the work involved and our flexibility, is what’s important to our staff and this contributes to a really happy working environment.”

As well as essential personal care, assistance with medication and dementia care, service users and carers need respite support on many different levels. This can be anything from Crossroads’ staff accompanying on shopping trips or other outings, helping with getting up or going to bed, meal preparation or some light housework.

CROSSROADS CARE SUPPORT WORKER

COURTENEY PINDER (26)

“I’ve been with Crossroads for nearly three years now. Previously I worked at a major supermarket in Clitheroe, which encouraged me to really interact in a positive way,

On Monday mornings there are sessions at Billington and Langho Community Centre and also two monthly lunch clubs in the local area. n

To find out more about these and the range of services Crossroads Care Ribble Valley offers, call the office on: 01200 422104 or visit the website at: crossroadscareribblevalley.co.uk

If you are interested in working for Crossroads: hello@crossroadscareribblevalley.co.uk

particularly with the elderly customers. I’m a naturally bubbly person and that background of enjoying interacting with people was what encouraged me to apply for the Crossroads position. You get amazing training and five different experienced carers mentored me from the start.

“My day? Basically, I do start early. I get up at 6am and get to work at 7am. From Monday to Thursday I help our clients start their day – getting up and sorting breakfast. Then there’s two or three hours that I take them, or other clients out for lunch, coffee or shopping. I tell you what, 90 year-olds have some very funny stories. Some of the things they’ve seen and experienced! You develop a relationship and a bond very quickly. Oh I do work every other Saturday.

“I love taking people to ‘Time for You’ because it’s great fun and such a good place for all the different people caring for their loved ones, to exchange ideas and support each other.”

at SPRING GETAWAYS

James’ Places award-winning collection of hospitality venues offers the perfect retreat for a walking break or simply soaking in the beauty of the British countryside.

Each of our venues is unique yet they share a passion for fabulous food, great service and a warm, friendly ambience. Whether you’re seeking adventure on the trails or relaxation amidst stunning scenery, our places provide the ideal backdrop for your getaway.

DRY STONE WALLS: HISTORY & CONSTRUCTION

The history and construction of dry stone walls unique to the Upper Hodder Valley, has been documented in a new book

Following a suggestion that a book on local, dry stone walls may be of interest, Helen Wallbank of Slaidburn Archive, began researching and seeking out various walls mentioned in old documents.

The result is a 93-page book which begins with a brief history of walls in general, leading on to references of dry stone walls in the area from the 1500s to the present day with the building of the wall around the Millennium extension to Slaidburn graveyard. The Enclosure Acts of the area are detailed, with the first Act being in 1621 and the remainder in the 1800s. Many miles of wall were built during these Enclosures.

A chapter is devoted to the construction of dry stone walls, starting with the obtaining of stone from local quarries and also other uses for the stone quarried there. As local

terms are used throughout, there is a glossary at the back for ease of reference. A large section is devoted to features within the walls, such as gateposts, smoots for sheep, hares and water, stiles, double wall heads denoting ownership or responsibility for maintenance, carvings on stones, bee boles for housing bee skeps when honey was so important as a food sweetener and also water troughs within or next to walls.

Other uses of walls include sheep folds, both for the sorting and washing of sheep, grouse butts, wells and bield walls to give shelter to animals from inclement weather. Habitat in walls is vital for various insects, birds, animals, amphibians and reptiles, along with a diverse selection of flora.

Sometimes people repairing walls find things left behind by the people working on the wall before them. Clay pipes and bottles are sometimes found, but possibly unique to the Upper Hodder Valley, are tobacco tins containing blank postcards on which are printed tunes and hymns. Known locally as ‘Tobacco Tin Music’ the tunes were written by local man, Joseph Hodgson in the 1930s to the 1950s, who put them into empty tins and

then placed them in walls he was repairing. These tins have also been found on roof timbers that have been repaired.

To bring the book to a close, several local people building and repairing walls are featured, along with the work of the Dry Stone Walling Association and the Forest of Bowland National Landscape in preserving the art of the age-old tradition.

Packed with colour and black and white photos, along with maps and diagrams, Dry Stone Walls of the Upper Hodder Valley will be of interest to local historians and wall builders. n

The book is £12 plus £2.50 p&p and all proceeds are being donated to the Slaidburn Archive to help continue its work in preserving the history of the Upper Hodder Valley.

Please send a cheque to Slaidburn Archive, 25 Church Street, Slaidburn, Clitheroe BB7 3ER or contact the archive for BACS details on: enquiries@slaidburnarchive.org

Dry Stone Walls

Of the Upper Hodder Valley

Slaidburn Archive is open on Wednesdays and Fridays from 11am-3.30pm for anyone wishing to research the local area, or their family. slaidburnarchive.org

Helen Wallbank Slaidburn Archive

IF MUSIC BE…

Glynis Sullivan embarks on an Amsterdam musical river cruise with Clitheroe-based Harmony Voyages

‘If music be the food of love,’ or so Shakespeare said. Well, he must have heard about Harmony Voyages!

Headed by Andy and Angela Schofield, Harmony Voyages seem to have found a niche market for ‘silver travellers’, who love to travel and listen to excellent music performed by some top performers in comfortable surroundings.

If field festivals have lost their magic then relax in style on a five-star river cruise, sleep in a very comfortable bed as you watch the world go by or sit by the hotel pool listening to your favourite bands.

Our mini cruise to Amsterdam was onboard the beautiful Amadeus Imperial, which was waiting for us, standing proud and majestic among many river cruise ships that line the banks close to the centre of Amsterdam. Our very well-appointed cabin was a joy to relax in and the restaurant was like dining in a fivestar hotel – and that was only the beginning of our short trip on this music cruise.

Amsterdam is a vibrant city with great transport links to the surrounding area. Take a river boat cruise around the waterways. See the red-light district or take in any of the abundant museums. Take the tram outside the Central Rail Station and travel around for nine euros per day. Make a stop at the Cafe

American to look at the amazing architecture and art deco fittings in this iconic hotel.

The music started on Saturday evening with Thea Gilmore’s sultry voice. She gave a stunning performance that spanned her career and her 20 albums. Steve Knightley, a

HARMONY VOYAGES HAVE A LONG TRACK RECORD OF BLENDING MUSIC WITH HOLIDAYS UNDER THEIR BRAND ‘COSTA FESTIVALS’

veteran on the folk music scene sang in his distinctive, infectious voice. More fans came on board for the unmistakeable sound of Track Dogs, a Madrid-based folk-Americana-

roots band that certainly made the boat rock! River cruises are amazingly popular trips operated by Harmony with the Douro River being introduced to their portfolio for 2026. Plus, there are two itineraries aboard Royal Clipper, the world’s largest fully masted sailing ship.

The first ‘Gems of the Adriatic’ is happening in August 2025 followed by ‘Caribbean Sunsets’ in February 2026 which will undoubtably be a fantastic experience.

Check out the website for further details harmonyvoyages.co.uk.

Harmony Voyages have a long track record of blending music with holidays. A growing popularity of these music festival holidays with the more mature travelling demographic is evident, as guests enjoy the comfortable surroundings and hassle-free experiences on a ‘Costa Festival’ holiday. What’s more, you’re never alone as the Harmony team are right there with you.

We may be getting older, but music still is, the ‘food of love’. n

Harmony Voyages is a member of ABTA and ATOL protected.

Harmony Voyages 36 King Street, Clitheroe BB7 2EU 01254 476075

harmonyvoyages.co.uk costafestival.co.uk

There’s a whole host of issues on the horizon –devolution, HARP and how the recent budget could have a devastating effect on our hospitality industry and farming communities, writes Live Magazines’ Tedd Walmsley

Let me start by wishing everybody a very happy New Year. My inbox seems to be filled with all sorts of conversations around the proposed devolution in Lancashire. I think everyone is waiting for the white paper to be published, which by the time you read this article, it may well be in the public domain.

The main question seems to be not if, but when this happens, and what then happens to the Ribble Valley during the process. What we do know is that we are a prized possession with assets of up to £30m if you include the real estate – we will be popular for sure, and no doubt get dragged either into East Lancashire or even Preston when devolution takes place.

The likelihood going forward of us having a strong voice in a new unitary authority will be hugely limited and the complex needs of an extensively rural community will, in my opinion be very much firmly down the pecking order. I am told that RVBC are trying to bring forward the long awaited CapEx plans but I fear that these may well be frozen out by central government directives.

Ihave received emails from parish and county councillors and also had a good exchange with one of our new MPs, Maya Ellis, who I intend to meet up with in the next few weeks. Let’s see if we can encourage her to be interviewed for the March magazine. Sadly, I didn’t hear back from the MP for Clitheroe and Pendle, but I intend to press him again. As our elected representative in Parliament, we could do to know his thoughts don’t you think?

I feel it very important to try and communicate what could happen and consultation on every level will be

vital. I don’t think it’s as simple as a referendum but fear the timeframe may limit the options.

Did you pick up in the news that United Utilities had lost their initial site to house enormous vehicles and commuter vehicles when HARP kicks in later this year?

I believe RVBC is to conduct its own economic impact assessment report and I urge any business that fears they will be affected by the years of disruption to make themselves known to their local councillors or Nicola Hopkins at RVBC. The villages most affected will be Waddington, Grindleton, West Bradford, Chatburn, Newton and Slaidburn.

As we went to print in the Christmas issue back in November, we were all concerned about the impact of some of the suggested changes in the chancellor’s first budget. On the face of it, these look catastrophic for the hospitality industry and many public faces have shown their deep concern. Just last night a prediction of 10,000 pubs to close in 2025 was published.

The combination of wholesale changes would suggest that hospitality faces its biggest ever challenge and 100 per cent needs your support, notably within the Ribble Valley. We simply can’t afford to lose these incredibly important businesses which add so much to the economy, drive tourism into our area and create much-needed employment.

The deepest concern is having to increase the cost to their customers to offset some or part of the huge increases in costs relating to employment, combined with increases to business rates. I truly believe this is not going to have the desired effect of growth, but the exact opposite. So many people I’ve spoken to have put on ice any expansion plans they had for this coming year. I really urge you all to try to support wherever you can.

Ihave to confess to not being an expert on inheritance tax and the implication on our farming community. It will be great to hear from those who do and would welcome some examples of the impact of this for the future of our Ribble Valley farms.

I have recently read reports challenging the new homes target set by the government over the coming years. Once again I fear that the increase, which has been levied at Ribble Valley, will see so much more of our green spaces built upon and with the devolution cloud overhead, I’m not sure we will be on hand to fight. Let me know how you’re all feeling about these issues and what questions we need to ask, but above all, be kind to each other. n

The views above are my own and I’d be delighted to get some replies to my questions and will report back on any progress and positive outcomes.

tedd.walmsley@live-magazines.co.uk @TeddWalmsley

UNDERSTANDING MEDICAL NEGLIGENCE

It’s important to consult a legal specialist at the earliest opportunity when considering making a claim for damages, explains Nick Molyneux, medical negligence expert at Farleys

Most medical appointments and treatments undertaken on the NHS or privately, are completed without any problems.

However, there are occasions where errors are made that can have a lasting impact on patients both mentally and physically, and many of those affected have no idea where to turn or who to speak to.

The first thing to establish is whether medical negligence has occurred. So, what is medical negligence?

If you’ve been injured or harmed by a GP, nurse, dentist, pharmacist, paramedic, consultant or private clinician, you may have been the victim of medical negligence. There is a standard of care expected of medical professionals and, if they fall below this standard, they may have been negligent.

Your health is the number one priority so the first thing you need to do if you feel your treatment has been negligent is raise the issue with the person treating you. It’s also perfectly acceptable to ask for a second opinion from another medical professional if you want it.

If you’ve spoken to the person treating you and you’re still unhappy, you should make a written complaint. For a GP, your complaint should go to the GP surgery’s practice manager, or, for NHS staff, you should make your complaint to the complaints department of the relevant NHS trust or hospital.

If you choose to make an official complaint, you should always make it in writing, by email or recorded post – never just telephone someone as you will have no record of what was said.

You can find copies of the complaints process on the organisation’s website. If you’re unsure, ring them and ask them to send it to you. State in your letter that you are prepared to allow 14 days for an acknowledgement and 40 days for them to send you a response.

When deciding what to say, try and step back from what has happened. Be clear but, more importantly, be precise. Some complaints may be about several things so make a list of all your complaints, in order of importance. The simpler and clearer you make your complaint, the harder it will be for any professional to avoid answering your grievance.

A medical negligence solicitor can guide you through the process for making a complaint as well as advise you on the possibility of making a claim for damages so it is important to speak to a legal specialist at the earliest opportunity.

To bring a successful claim, you must prove, on the balance of probabilities that breach of duty has occurred and that it caused you to suffer injury. Your legal representative can discuss this in detail with you referring to your individual set of circumstances.

Most claims have a three-year time limit so court proceedings must be issued (not just that the claim must be started) within three years of the injury or, in some cases, three years from the date you first became aware the injury was caused as a result of negligence. For cases involving children, the three years start from their 18th birthday.

The investigative process at the start of a claim can be lengthy and therefore, it is advantageous to instruct legal representation as soon as possible and when the issues are fresh in your mind. n

Farleys has a team of experienced medical negligence solicitors based in Lancashire. To discuss your case with a specialist please call 01254 368 040, email: info@farleys.com or visit: farleys.com.

This explains everything. It shows clearly why everything starts with our thoughts. Each ‘thought’ triggers a ‘belief’ that leads to a ‘behaviour’ that results in an ‘outcome’. Just think about a single negative thought you have and ask yourself what belief, behaviour and outcome does that generate?

Ask yourself how helpful that thought is to you? Once we identify the thought and challenge the belief system, the control passes away from the CEO and back into your own hands.

In therapy we discover where the thoughts originate from and learn how to challenge them. The moment you change one thing in the management of your thoughts, everything changes.

MIND MATTERS

Therapeutic coach Lynn Scholes explores emotional freedom, how we can achieve it in the coming year and why it’s a prize worth fighting for

Firstly, what do we mean by emotional freedom and does anyone really have it? If you are someone who has been consumed or simply affected by negative thoughts for part, or all of your life, it’s maybe hard to believe that you can remove that internal chatter and self doubt. Has there been an acceptance over time that ‘It’s just me’?

Take a moment to consider what would it be like to be free of this weight? I would like you to ask yourself four questions, writing down your answers:

• What would life be like without those challenging thoughts?

• What would I do if I didn’t have so many

doubts and fears?

• Why should I accept that this is as good as it gets?

What stops me sorting out this problem I have had for so long?

The answer to the last one is the most complex but important. In life generally when we have a problem we try to sort it out. So often we can see and touch a problem –it maybe with a car, a next door neighbour, the window cleaner not showing up. However, when it comes to our thoughts, we push that challenge to one side and live with it, even though it lasts far longer and has a far bigger impact on our lives than all the other problems put together. We can’t see it, we can’t touch it, so we can’t resolve it. That is just simply not true.

Our thoughts are the CEO of our lives. They can (for the lucky ones) be a good boss that likes you, empowers you, rewards you, supports you and develops you. They can give you freedom to reach your true potential. Or they can be the micro-managing boss that stifles you, constantly shows they don’t trust you, ignores your successes and focuses on your failures. Which boss does your thoughts represent?

> Thoughts > Beliefs > Behaviours

> Outcomes

So many clients arrive wanting to change their behaviours but the journey always begins with understanding the thoughts and challenging the beliefs those thoughts generate.

A good way to begin is to ‘performance review’ the CEO (your thoughts). How is the CEO doing? Do they deserve that key role in your life?

The great news is you can re-write the script. It is all about digging deep, doing the work, making the changes and moving into a happier life. The choice is yours.

Changing the thoughts that lead to belief is like getting a new boss, it changes everything. This time you have chosen the boss, one that supports and empowers you.

At this time of year a lot is made of goalsetting but this can begin on any day of the year.

So, what are you waiting for? Make the commitment – there are lots of books out there to get you started. However, if you are curious about working with me, please pick up the phone and let’s have a chat – no commitment, no hard sell, just a genuine passion for ensuring that you are managed by the right CEO. n

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

SO SPA… SO GOOD!

If you want to begin 2025 feeling energised and full of vitality, Hidden Oaks has a beautiful pool and spa facilities that overlook surrounding woodland and countryside

Tucked away in secluded woodland in the heart of the Ribble Valley is a hidden gem featuring a luxury spa, with a swimming pool, sauna, steam room and relaxing whirlpool – a peaceful haven that can be hired privately or enjoyed any day of the week when the facilities can easily be booked online or over the phone.

The 15-metre pool in the glass-fronted spa is the perfect place to enjoy some rest and relaxation with friends. Book a treatment online with Hidden Oaks’ hand-selected, local therapists or if you’re starting the new year with health and fitness in mind, book one of the pool’s daily, morning open-swim sessions, which are limited to 10 swimmers –

perfect for keeping up regular exercise in a luxurious and stress-free environment.

The spa has been meticulously designed to prioritise relaxation. Featuring two treatment rooms, the pool and spa space is available for private hire, allowing for an exclusive experience, or you can opt for an open session – all you need to do is select your date and time to book.

WE OFTEN FIND GUEST SWIMMERS COME ALONG, ENJOY THEIR SESSION AND THEN FOLLOW IT UP WITH SOME RELAXATION TIME IN THE SAUNA

OR STEAM ROOM

“We often find guest swimmers come along, enjoy their session and then follow it up with some relaxation time in the sauna or steam room,” explains Hannah Keppel, the daughter of Elizabeth and John Wade, who have developed this prestigious venue.

“We have a team of local, independent therapists who can offer everything from lovely facials to a hot stone massage.”

The spa at Hidden Oaks off Stonyegate Lane, Ribchester, opened at the end of 2023 and is part of a larger development featuring a series of beautiful holiday homes with facilities that include hot tubs, cinema rooms, games rooms and tennis courts.

Within the vast countryside estate at Oak Bank Farm there are numerous holiday cottages – the largest of which sleep up to 16 –

plus a number of smaller woodland lodges. Almost 100 guests can be accommodated within this luxury rural retreat. Adjoining the spa is a beautiful wedding and events venue too, so couples and their guests can enjoy all the facilities that Hidden Oaks has to offer.

It is a unique concept and one that works flawlessly. Private events are seamlessly organised by Abigail and Mollie and their hard-working team, while booking the opensession pool facilities or a spa treatment couldn’t be easier. n

If you would like to know more about Hidden Oaks go to the website or call Abigail or Mollie who will be delighted to help.

Hidden Oaks

The Barn at Oak Bank Farm

Stoneygate Lane, Ribchester PR3 3YN 01254 965091

hiddenoaks.co.uk

ROLE OF THE REGISTRAR

Steve Lloyd, Lancashire County Council’s Registration Service Manager, who is responsible for the region’s registrar service, explains the many and varied roles of the registrar

No two days are the same for our wedding registrars and there are plenty of reasons why. Most weddings – up to 85 per cent – in England and Wales are now civil rather than religious. Civil weddings usually happen in register offices or venues approved by the local council, giving couples lots of choices for planning their ceremony.

Legally, two registrars must attend a civil wedding because there are two distinct roles – the marriage registrar and the celebrant. The marriage registrar handles the legal pre-ceremony questioning, completes the official paperwork and registers the marriage in the national electronic register. The celebrant guides the couple through the ceremony, ensuring they declare they are free to marry and complete the verbal

contract of marriage. In Lancashire, staff are trained to handle both roles.

One lesser-known part of the registrar’s job is being vigilant against potential forced and sham marriages. Staff need to know what to do if they discover someone is being coerced into marriage or if someone doesn’t seem to have the mental capacity to get married. Registrars are trained to deal with these situations too.

A BUSY SATURDAY IN AUGUST MIGHT HAVE OUR REGISTRARS DELIVERING THREE OR FOUR CEREMONIES IN ONE DAY

Registrars’ work is seasonal. Many couples want to get married during the summer, with outdoor ceremonies becoming more popular. A summer Saturday at 1pm is prime wedding time! A busy Saturday in August might have our registrars travelling from venue to venue, delivering three or four ceremonies in one day. For every couple they meet, registrars need to be personable, professional and attentive, making each couple feel like theirs is the only ceremony that day. Because of the seasonal nature of

the job, all our ceremony registrars work part-time and flexibly.

Another trend we’ve noticed is the increased desire for personalised ceremonies. During the ceremony, the celebrant can mention how the couple met, their common interests, special guests who are present, or even those who can’t be there – and it’s amazing how many couples want us to mention their pets too!

THERE’S ALWAYS A NEW TREND MAKING THE ROUNDS AND RECENT ONES INCLUDE RING WARMING AND WITNESS RAFFLES

While couples increasingly want to personalise their ceremonies, many traditions not enshrined in law remain popular –many couples don’t see each other before the wedding and someone may still be ‘given away’ although not so much in the conventional sense anymore. Lots of couples still have bridesmaids, pageboys and flower girls. There’s always a new trend making the rounds and recent ones include ring warming and witness raffles at the beginning of the ceremony.

The type of weddings we conduct in Lancashire are diverse, ranging from minimal fuss to all-out celebrations. Registrars might conduct a ceremony with just the couple and two witnesses, with nothing more than the legally required words. The next ceremony might feature over 100 guests, music and readings. The Ribble Valley in particular has lots of approved venues, offering a variety of options.

For those who have been in the registration service for a long time, there has been a lot of change over the last 30 years. Not just the shift to more civil weddings, but also the ability to marry outside the hours of 8am to 6pm, to marry outdoors and even the way marriages are registered. The registrar’s role is fascinating and we know it will continue to change as time goes on. One thing is for sure –the wedding boom isn’t slowing down! n

Arrange

DREAM VENUES

EXCEPTIONAL WEDDINGS & EVENTS

Magnificent venues in stunning locations across the North West.

Experience, expertise and outstanding attention to detail.

Whether large or small, now, next month or next year be assured whatever you’re planning, we will always make it all about you.

JAMES’ PLACES

Beautifully & exclusively yours

YOUR GUIDE TO WEDDING MAKEUP

Creating flawless wedding makeup involves careful preparation and precise execution

Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieving a beautiful bridal look.

CLEANSE AND HYDRATE

Use a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt or oil. Apply a hydrating moisturiser suited to your skin type and allow it to absorb for a few minutes.

AUGUSTINUS BADER THE CLEANSING BALM £62

PRIME THE SKIN

Use a primer to smooth out the skin, minimise pores and ensure makeup lasts all day. For dry skin, use a hydrating primer and for oily skin use a mattifying primer.

MILK MAKEUP HYDRO GRIP PRIMER £35

PREP THE LIPS

Exfoliate the lips using a gentle lip scrub and apply a nourishing lip balm.

APPLY FOUNDATION

Choose a foundation that matches your skin tone and is also long-lasting. Apply using a beauty blender or foundation brush for an even finish.

HIGHLIGHT

CONCEAL

DEFINE BROWS

Fill in your brows with a pencil, powder or pomade that matches your natural hair colour and set with a clear or tinted brow gel

APPLY EYESHADOW

Use a neutral or soft-coloured eyeshadow palette. Apply a light shade all over the lid, a medium shade in the crease and a darker shade in the outer corner for depth. Add shimmer to the centre of the lid or inner corners for brightness.

WESTMAN ATELIER EYE PODS EYE SHADOW PALETTE £80

EYELINER

Apply eyeliner close to the lash line or for a more dramatic look, consider a winged liner. Use waterproof eyeliner to avoid smudging.

MASCARA AND FALSE LASHES

Curl your lashes and apply waterproof mascara or add false lashes for extra volume and drama.

LINE THE LIPS

Outline your lips with a lip liner that matches your lipstick – this step prevents feathering and defines the shape.

Use a concealer to cover blemishes, dark circles and any redness. Blend well with a small brush or your fingertips.

CHANTECAILLE LE CAMOUFLAGE STYLO £52

SET WITH POWDER

Lightly dust setting powder over the face to lock the foundation and concealer, focusing on areas prone to oiliness, such as the T-zone.

CONTOUR

Use a matte contouring product to define your cheekbones, jawline and nose and blend thoroughly to avoid harsh lines.

Apply a highlighter to the high points of your face including cheekbones, brow bones, the bridge of the nose and cupid’s bow.

BY TERRY STARLIGHT

GLOW CC

HIGHLIGHTER £52

BLUSH

Apply a natural-looking blush to the apples of your cheeks and blend upwards for a lifted effect.

APPLY LIPSTICK

Choose a long-lasting, bridal-appropriate lipstick shade – consider a matte or satin finish for longevity.

LAURA MERCIER ROUGE ESSENTIEL

SILKY CRÈME LIPSTICK £33

SET MAKEUP

Use a setting spray to lock in your makeup and keep it looking fresh all day.

HOURGLASS VEIL SOFT FOCUS SETTING SPAY £48

BLOT AND CHECK

Carry blotting papers and touch-up products for later in the day, if needed.

PRO TIPS:

Do a trial run and test your look in advance to ensure it complements your dress and personal style.

Photograph the look to check how it appears in photos under different lighting.

If you go bold on the eyes, opt for a softer lip and vice versa. With these steps, you’ll create a radiant, picture-perfect bridal look! n

at Ribby Hall Village

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

BRING A SLICE OF ITALY TO YOUR CELEBRATION!

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

Street Food Pizza’s state-of-the-art, purpose-built van has been bringing the gourmet flavours of Italy to weddings, graduations, retirement farewells, leaving-dos and birthday parties throughout the year.

Invite Street Food Pizza to your party though, and you’ll get more than the delicious, hot artisan pizzas they’re famous for – you’ll get a touch of theatre too. In a process that always draws a crowd, their chef expertly stretches their freshly made pizza dough then cooks it to perfection in the flames of a wood fired oven.

The Street Food Pizza team are proud of their dough, which is made daily from the highest quality imported Italian flour and

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

WE SET UP AND WE CLEAR AWAY. YOU WON’T EVEN KNOW WE’VE BEEN –EXCEPT FOR THE MEMORY OF THE MOST PERFECT PIZZA YOU’VE EVER TASTED!

and renowned for its delicate taste. The spicy sausage is Nduja, a speciality of Calabria known for its smooth texture and exquisite flavour.

Not only can you be sure that these gourmet pizzas will be enjoyed by guests of all ages

make you exactly what you want,” explains the chef. “Vegan, vegetarian, gluten free –and they’re all delicious. Numbers aren’t a problem either. If you’re throwing a big party, we’ll just bring two vans.”

Once the perfect crust has been achieved, the pizzas are sliced, labelled and served buffet-style, indoors or outdoors, allowing each guest to sample more than one flavour: “We set up, and we clear away,” explains the chef. “Which means you can get on with enjoying your party. You won’t even know we’ve been – except for a memory of the most perfect pizza you’ve ever tasted!” n

Street Food Pizza’s prices start at £12 per head, call or message the team for more details

Street Food Pizza 01254 949642

07984 797726

streetfoodpizza.co.uk

COMPLIMENTARY COUPLES GIN MAKING EXPERIENCE WITH ALL NEW BOOKINGS

YOUR DAY, YOUR WAY

Mytton Fold Hotel, located in the heart of the Ribble Valley is a wedding venue for all seasons and styles, with ample accommodation onsite for your entire wedding party.

Mytton Fold Hotel, located in the heart of the Ribble Valley is a wedding venue for all seasons and styles, with accommodation onsite for your entire wedding party.

The light and airy Abbey and Ribble suites offer the most elegant settings and are completely versatile when it comes to your ‘I Do’ moment – with dates available for 2025 and beyond.

STAYING WITH US

The Abbey and Ribble suites offer the most elegant settings and are completely versatile when it comes to your ‘I Do’ moment - with dates available for both 2025 and beyond, and a range of packages on offer, tailored to your budget and your requirements.

Mytton Fold boasts 34 en-suite rooms, plus two luxury bridal suites, available to all guests at a preferential wedding rate, rooms include a mixture of executive suites, family rooms, pet friendly rooms and accessible too.

Visit Jules restaurant during your stay and enjoy classics from our extensive menu offering, including brunch, à la carte, plant-based and afternoon tea.

Discover 2025 remaining dates, inclusive of 50-day guests, 50 evening guests, plus a whole host of services included, from full use of our bridal makeup room in preparation for your special day, to evening entertainment from our house DJ, complimentary stay in a luxury bridal suite on the evening of your wedding, and much more, from £6,500.

THE FULL PACKAGE AND MORE

If you are looking for more of a small and intimate celebration, or perhaps an evening of celebrations with friends and family, we have created bespoke Sunset Celebration and Party Perfect packages to meet your needs.

The extensive wedding packages at Mytton Fold included everything needed to celebrate your day in one place, with a whole host of services included, from full use of our bridal makeup room in preparation for your day, to evening entertainment from our resident DJ, complimentary stay in a luxury bridal suite on the evening of your wedding and more.

Plus, when you book your wedding here at Mytton Fold Hotel for 2025 and beyond, receive a couple’s gin making experience, with love from the team, to help you celebrate your booking in style.

Enquire about our range of available packages today, or book a private venue showaround with a member of our team on: weddings@myttonfold. co.uk

Mytton Fold Hotel: Whalley Road, Langho, BB6 8AB

Scan the QR to discover Mytton Fold Hotel

We’ve teamed up with the Nab Lab, Whalley, to offer the ultimate celebratory experience. Create your own unique gin blend, all whilst enjoying two glasses of The Spirit of Nab gin and mixer and take home two bottles of your very own gin to enjoy whilst making your way through the next chapter of wedding planning.

2025 REMAINING DATES OFFER

Take advantage of our 2025 remaining dates offer, inclusive of our full wedding package above for just £5,950. Plus receive 30 complimentary evening guests (£700+ value), and canapés for your entire wedding party – what more could you need!

Scan the QR to discover weddings at Mytton Fold Hotel.

Enquire today, or book a private viewing with a member of our weddings team at: weddings@myttonfold.co.uk

Mytton Fold Hotel, Whalley Road, Langho, BB6 8AB.

WEDDING TRENDS

Out go the pastels and in come bold, vibrant colours, unconventional venues and the introduction of live streaming technology and virtual reality. This year weddings take on a whole new look

As weddings continue to evolve, 2025 promises a number of exciting new trends in the Ribble Valley and beyond, combining creativity, sustainability and personalisation to create unforgettable celebrations. Here are the key trends shaping the upcoming year.

and ruby red are making a statement, often paired with metallic accents for a touch of glamour. Themes are becoming more adventurous, ranging from celestial motifs to art deco-inspired elegance.

WEEKEND EXPERIENCES

in plant-based menus, couples are prioritising sustainable choices. Venues offering carbon-neutral options or aligning with environmental values are particularly in demand. Vintage attire and upcycled decorations are also making appearances, blending charm with sustainability.

SMALL WEDDING – BIG IMPACT

Micro-weddings, which gained popularity during the pandemic, remain a strong trend. Couples are opting for guest lists of fewer than 50 people, focusing on creating an immersive experience for guests. Smaller gatherings allow for higher budgets per head, resulting in luxurious details such as multi-course gourmet menus, personalised favours and elaborate floral installations.

Weddings are transforming into weekendlong celebrations. Couples are organising welcome dinners, day-after brunches and even group activities such as tours or outdoor adventures. This trend ensures guests feel cherished and part of a unique journey.

GO FOR THE UNCONVENTIONAL

TECH-ENHANCED

SUSTAINABILITY

Eco-conscious weddings are more prevalent than ever. From sourcing seasonal, locally grown flowers to hiring caterers specialising

Technology is playing an increasing role in weddings. Live streaming for remote guests remains popular, but augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are stepping in to create interactive experiences. Couples are also incorporating QR codes for everything from RSVPs to personalised thank-you messages. Tech-savvy photo booths with AI enhancements offer a fun and modern twist on traditional keepsakes.

GO BOLD

The demand for non-traditional venues is on the rise. Countryside barns, industrial warehouses, botanical gardens and historic libraries offer couples opportunities to create distinctive settings that reflect their personalities.

KEEP IT PERSONAL

In 2025, weddings are moving away from pastels toward bold, vibrant hues. Jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue

Couples are reimagining their ceremonies with heartfelt, non-traditional elements, such as custom vows, cultural fusions or symbolic rituals like unity painting or tree planting.

In 2025, UK weddings will be defined by individuality, sustainability and meaningful connections, ensuring every celebration is truly one of a kind. n

FOXFIELDS

COUNTRY HOTEL A romantic wedding venue nestled within 9 acres of beautifully landscaped garden in the heart of the Ribble Valley.

LONG ESTABLISHED AND INDEPENDENTLY OWNED.

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

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

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

01254 822556 www.foxfieldshotel.com enquiries@foxfieldshotel.co.uk

Image courtesy of Kirsten Platt

PURE LUXURY

DRESS GREEN

ESTATE LIFE

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

Happy New Year to everyone and all the best for 2025.

My family and I have just returned from a snowy Christmas in Sun Valley, Idaho, where we have been visiting Amber’s family as we do each year. The ski resort is on the edge of the Sawtooth Mountains and is truly one of the most beautiful but wild places in the USA.

As we move into the New Year, I always use it as a time to look

ahead positively to the future and evaluate everything we are doing.

This year will be a particularly exciting one for the estate and our family as 2025 will see us

Garden magazine. We’re sure her knowledge and experience will prove extremely valuable.

We’re looking forward to welcoming more happy couples to celebrate their wedding day with us and experience the truly magical environment of Gisburne Park during 2025.

Our riverbank wedding venue is in a hidden valley surrounded by ancient woodland, rushing

move forward with our ambitious £30 million plans to create an exclusive private members’ club, country house hotel and wellness resort.

OUR RIVERBANK WEDDING VENUE IS IN A HIDDEN VALLEY SURROUNDED BY ANCIENT WOODLAND, RUSHING WATER, DRAMATIC CLIFFS, MEDIEVAL HOUSES AND PICTURESQUE BRIDGES

It’s always been a dream of ours to create something like this. Gisburne Park is a unique place with endless potential and unbelievable beauty. The estate is perfectly laid out to house a world class venue like this with the Grade I listed Georgian mansion house at the heart of the project.

We’re particularly delighted to be able to welcome interior design icon and family friend Rita Konig to Gisburne Park in the next few weeks. Rita was recently voted Number One Interior Designer by House and

water, dramatic cliffs, medieval houses, picturesque bridges and an abundance of wildlife.

We allow couples the exclusive hire of 10-acres of Ribble Valley countryside. With a private entrance through gatehouses, guests will be impressed from the very start. n

There’s a wide range of packages to suit all budgets and requirements. We still have a few remaining dates for 2025 and 2026. Don’t miss out. Contact us today to make your reservation.

Gisburne Park Estate Mill Lane, Gisburn BB7 4LP 01200 415300

weddings@gisburneparkestate.co.uk gisburneparkestate.co.uk

@hindelinis @ribblesdalepark @gisburneparkestate

A beautifully converted 16th century stone barn

• Exclusive venue hire

• Separate licensed ceremony room

• Maximum guest number for ceremony and wedding breakfast: 125

• Maximum guest number for evening reception: 200

• Fourteen en-suite bedrooms including complimentary Honeymoon Suite

• In-house chefs preparing exceptional food using locally sourced ingredients

COMING SOON! The Meadows

Featuring:

• Spectacular countryside views

• Large honeymoon suite

• Hair and makeup room with dining area

• Additional accommodation for the night before and on your wedding day

An exciting new addition here at Beeston Manor

Photo

EDUCATION NEWS

AUTUMN CONCERT

At the end of the year, Westholme School had the pleasure of hosting their annual Autumn Concert in the Croston Theatre. From the cello to cornet, piano to vocal, there was a delightful range of performances and it was an opportunity for the talented students to perform in front of family and friends. Senior students from all years were represented and it proved to be a fine evening of ensemble and solo musical performances, with the orchestra and school bands in full swing under the baton of Director of Music Mr Holt.

NEW RESTAURANT & TRAINING KITCHEN

Blackburn College unveiled the state-ofthe-art transformation of its Scholars Restaurant and Food for Thought café following an £850,000 investment recently. New ambassador and patron, Lisa GoodwinAllen, Executive Chef of Michelin-starred Northcote, joins Scholars’ Head Chef and Chef Lecturer, David Lyon to continue industry-leading training at the college. The new restaurant and state-of-the-art training kitchen was funded through the Local Skills Improvement Fund (LSIF) and the college’s own commitment to local skills development.

ADVENTURE STARTS HERE…

Stonyhurst’s Year 7 pupils can now embark on a thrilling journey through the school’s new Adventure Curriculum. Each Wednesday, Year 7 and 8 pupils engage in a variety of outdoor activities designed to promote teamwork, resilience and character development. From archery to kayaking, pupils rotate through exciting experiences such as bushcraft, mountain biking, fencing and clay pigeon shooting. These activities challenge pupils and immerse them in the stunning Stonyhurst estate, offering opportunities for personal growth and team building.

NORTH WEST FINALIST

Shelley Gill, a student at Nelson and Colne College Group, was recently named runner-up in the highly regarded Association of Colleges (AoC) Student of the Year Awards. The awards celebrate outstanding achievements by students from further education colleges across the UK, highlighting their dedication, resilience and contributions to their communities. Shelley, 46, who won the Higher Apprentice category in the Lancashire Apprenticeship Awards earlier in the year, was the only finalist from the North West, earning national recognition for her commitment to balancing her professional career, academic studies and personal development.

IN YUSUF’S MEMORY

As 2024 drew to a close, the Charity Team at Westholme School held a number of fundraising events throughout the term, raising a total amount of £6,364.00. Charities included Wear It Pink, Macmillan Coffee Morning, Children In Need and a memorial for Old Westholmian, Yusuf Mumtaz, who recently passed away at the age of 21. In Yusuf’s memory, a charitable donation was set up dedicated to building a water well, providing a community in need with access to clean water.

INNOVATION HUB

Nelson and Colne College Group (NCCG) has successfully launched its first Industry Innovation Hub (IIH) at a dedicated event aimed at strengthening connections between education and businesses. The initiative focuses on fostering greater collaboration among schools, colleges and industry to nurture the region’s future workforce. The new concept saw the official opening of the new £3 million engineering centre – featuring industry standard facilities focused on CNC machining, manual milling, manual turning, fabrication and welding, with plans to add an aeronautical section.

• Flexi, occasional, weekly and full boarding options available

• Be part of a global family like no other

• Form life-long friends from around the globe

• Begin the first steps into independent living

• Enjoy weekends and quality time at home with family

• Late evening and early morning activities

• Enjoy relaxing in the evenings with friends

• Achieve the best grades possible with extraspecialist support in the evenings

• Supporting busy parents’ work commitments

• Wrap-around care throughout the week

• Nurtures pupils’ ability to approach situations with kindness and compassion

as part ofo

HOME FROM HOME…

Tailored boarding options at Stonyhurst provide a wonderful balance for families living within a 90-minute drive from this historic Ribble Valley school

As parents, we all want our children to grow up confident, capable, and ready to tackle the challenges of an interconnected, fast-moving world. One of the most impactful ways to help your child develop these qualities is through boarding. Tailored boarding options at Stonyhurst allow for the perfect balance of independence and family life, offering young people the opportunity to develop leadership skills, global awareness, and resilience. With a world-class education set in a unique, centuries-old environment, Stonyhurst is the ideal place for boarders to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Stonyhurst offers tailored boarding options to suit every family’s needs. Choose from Occasional Boarding for ad-hoc stays, Flexible Boarding with pre-determined nights for the term or year, or Weekly Boarding from Sunday to Friday night.

Without the need for a daily commute, children can take advantage of all that the

PUPILS HAVE EVERYTHING THEY NEED HERE – THE SUPPORT, THE STRUCTURE, EXCEPTIONAL FACILITIES AND INCREDIBLE OPPORTUNITIES

College has to offer – from the exceptional on-site facilities, a raft of co-curricular activities and outstanding pastoral care, boarders have everything they need within the impressive, 1,000-acre Stonyhurst estate. Pupils develop independence, form lasting friendships and those who take advantage

of tailored boarding options can still enjoy weekends with family that are more relaxed and quality-focused.

“Stonyhurst may seem imposing but when you come inside it’s like a home from home,” says Stonyhurst’s Headmaster John Browne.

“It’s a community that is located on a single site with nine boarding houses all under one roof. For boarders there are many advantages –the more time they spend here the more they gain from the place.”

For prospective pupils living within a 90-minute commute, weekly boarding is the perfect answer. The 2,000-room Jesuit college set in the Ribble Valley countryside, has recently invested in and upgraded many of its boarding facilities, which are a far cry from what one would expect of a school steeped in history.

Light and airy with a contemporary family feel, the living quarters assigned to boarding pupils are well thought-out on every level – the social areas are relaxed and welcoming while many bedrooms are en-suite.

Houseparents play a central role in boarders’ daily lives, guiding them as they adjust to routines and gain independence: “We ensure that everything is in place to help pupils grow in their independence, so when the time comes to leave for university

and life beyond Stonyhurst, they are fully prepared and confident.

“The social side of boarding is hugely important to pupils. They form friendships that last a lifetime with peers from all over the world. The school has a vibrant international atmosphere that pupils truly enjoy,” says Mr Browne. He recalls a friendship group of three pupils who, last summer, spent two weeks each at one another’s family homes – on the Scottish island of Bute, in Madrid and in Sweden –highlighting the global connections created within the school community.

THE BENEFITS FOR WEEKLY, SIX-NIGHT BOARDERS ARE NUMEROUS AND VARIED, AND PARENTS ALSO GAIN PEACE OF MIND, KNOWING THEIR CHILDREN ARE BEING CARED FOR IN A SUPPORTIVE AND NURTURING ENVIRONMENT

“It gives them a real sense of the world and being connected – that’s part of the magic here. Pupils consistently tell us that what they most value here is the rich diversity of the community.

“We have had links with Hong Kong, Mexico and Spain for many years – all pupils whether they are full time boarders, weekly boarders or day pupils have the advantage of becoming familiar with different cultures.”

While 40 per cent of Stonyhurst pupils come from overseas, representing 32 different countries, some boarders live just a short commute away – many even within a stone’s throw of the College. The benefits for weekly, six-night boarders are numerous and varied, and parents also gain peace of mind, knowing their children are being cared for in a supportive and nurturing environment, surrounded by friends and engaging in a wide range of activities.

For both parents and children, weekends become a cherished opportunity for stressfree, quality family time. All boarders follow a structured after-school routine. After afternoon tea, pupils have access to

academic clinics led by teaching staff from each department, providing extra support for those seeking help with specific subjects. The afternoon continues with a diverse co-curricular programme, followed by evening supper. From 7pm onwards, study sessions take place within pupils’ year groups, with teachers available to offer guidance and support as needed.

“While it is calm and civilised, it is an industrious time with a real buzz. Pupils are also incentivised with brags (merits), awards and certificates. We make learning fun,” says Mr Browne.

Following studies, free time is often spent with friends in the boarding house, engaging in community activities like baking, playing board games or participating in sports. Older pupils may also take part in

TWILIGHT TASTER: BOARDING AT STONYHURST

If your child is interested in boarding at Stonyhurst, but unsure if it is right for them, our free Twilight Taster event on the evening of Friday 7th February 2025 is the perfect opportunity to experience the magic of boarding life.

Attendees will enjoy an evening of activities and socialising with some of our current boarders, guided by our dedicated boarding staff and Houseparents.

The evening will conclude with an overnight stay in one of our newly refurbished, beautifully designed boarding houses.

debating clubs, academic societies, lectures or listen to guest speakers. “While it’s downtime for pupils, they still have plenty of opportunities to learn, socialise and enjoy meaningful experiences,” says Mr Browne.

Stonyhurst offers current day pupils three free nights per year, allowing them to experience boarding life firsthand. This February, prospective pupils will have the chance to discover the unique experience of boarding at Stonyhurst through a ‘Twilight Taster’ event, designed to showcase the magic of life at the College. Mr Browne concludes: “Pupils have everything they need here – the support, the structure, exceptional facilities and incredible opportunities. It truly offers outstanding value.” n

Stonyhurst College

Clitheroe BB7 9PZ 01254 827073

ukadmissions@stonyhurst.ac.uk

stonyhurst.ac.uk

against thousands of others to gain these places and this reflects the strength of the career programme that we have here at Westholme.”

The school’s award-winning career programme is far-reaching, with Westholme holding mock interviews as well as encouraging students to attend Sixth Form societies, listen to online lectures and podcasts and use the universal online platform Unifrog.

“Our INSPIRED Sixth Form students are constantly absorbing information and being enriched academically,” adds Mr Oracz.

EXPLORE THE FUTURE

Leading independent school Westholme is set to hold a ground-breaking event for local students, who are eager to explore future career pathways

Westholme School is pioneering a multi-faceted careers evening which will be the first of its kind to incorporate all aspects of life after Sixth Form. It is open to all local school pupils from Year 9 upwards –in particular those that don’t have access to such a prestigious event that will bring together big-hitters from the corporate world along with representatives from top universities and apprenticeship schemes.

Similar to UCAS Discovery events, which are held throughout the country, the Westholme event will provide a northernbased opportunity for students to explore, research and discuss their future aspirations.

Russell Group universities, local academic centres and other leading universities from across the UK will be represented and available for families to hear first-hand about courses, applications and life at their academic institutions.

Representatives from national organisations including the Armed Forces and the NHS as well as local law firms, architects, dentists and veterinary practices, will be in attendance to

discuss degree apprenticeships.

Leading figures from the likes of the BBC, Astra Zeneca, Warburtons and Sellafield will be present to discuss careers in engineering, chemistry and HR: “Companies like these have all manner of positions and training opportunities,” explains Head of Westholme’s INSPIRED Sixth Form, Jonathan Oracz.

“There has recently been a big shift in the number of students opting for degree apprenticeships and at Westholme our students have had considerable success in getting placements at leading companies including Jaguar Land Rover, Coca Cola and the BBC.

“Our students have successfully competed

Successful Westholme alumni will also be returning to the school to take part in the careers event to chat about their own personal career pathways: “Our alumni have offered to give up their time to attend – they are happy to give something back to support the next generation.”

Speaking about the forthcoming event, Principal Mr Paul Taylor adds: “School pupils are fast approaching the most exciting transition of their lives so far, but there are so many different options available these days. The Westholme careers fair will open their eyes to the vast range of opportunities ready for them in the North West and nationally.” n

CAREERS EVENT

4th February 2025 6pm – 8pm

Open to students from Year 9 upwards

For more information call 01254 506070

Westholme School

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

“I

Kelsey Naylor Level 3 AAT Diploma in Accounting

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NEW YEAR: NEW VOCATION

The Catholic Teaching Alliance delivers teacher training that transforms lives

Based at Our Lady’s Catholic High School in Preston, the Catholic Teaching Alliance (CTA) launched in 2014 and works alongside the University of Cumbria. Since its launch the CTA has trained some 350 primary and secondary teachers, many of whom work as classroom teachers, middle leaders and senior leaders in local schools , contributing to the lives of so many young people across the North West.

The CTA’s 10th anniversary was recently marked by a Service of Thanks followed by a celebration of the achievements of trainee teachers. For this momentous occasion, colleagues from the University of Cumbria

joined the celebration along with former and current trainees, school headteachers and mentors, who have all contributed to and supported, the outstanding work of the CTA.

Are you a recent graduate passionate about making a difference in the lives of young people? Do you feel called to inspire the next generation of learners, nurturing not only their academic growth but also their character and spiritual development? If so, the CTA could be the perfect place for you to begin your teaching journey.

The CTA offers a unique opportunity to train as a teacher in a supportive, values-driven environment. As an experienced educator and leader, Adrian Gormally and his team of Hub Leads and mentors, are committed to ensuring that every trainee teacher receives the support, training and opportunities needed to become a confident, skilled and inspiring teacher.

The Catholic Teaching Alliance is one of the North West’s most respected and successful school-based teacher training providers. It offers an outstanding platform for graduates to begin their careers in teaching, combining the latest pedagogical knowledge with realworld classroom experience.

Here’s why you should consider training with the CTA:

A faith-based approach to education

The CTA isn’t just about teaching the curriculum, it’s about fostering a sense of purpose in both teachers and students. The Alliance places a strong emphasis on faith, values and community. You’ll be trained to teach not just academic subjects but to contribute to the spiritual, moral and emotional development of your students.

Hands-on experience

At the CTA, it is believed that the best way to learn is by doing. That’s why the training is primarily school-based. As well as the intensive training days you will be placed in two of our partner Catholic schools where you’ll have the chance to observe experienced teachers, work alongside them and ultimately take on your own classes. This experience allows you to develop practical teaching skills and build confidence, ensuring that when you graduate, you’re ready to lead a classroom.

Tailored support and development

Teaching is a rewarding but challenging career and at the CTA it is believed that each trainee is different. That’s why the training programme is flexible and personalised. With regular mentoring sessions and access to a wide network of experienced educators, you’ll have the support you need to overcome challenges and excel in your practice.

Pathway to a rewarding career

The CTA isn’t just a training provider – it’s a pathway to a long-term, fulfilling career in education. With strong ties to a network of schools, CTA graduates often find themselves in high demand across the sector. Many trainees go on to secure teaching roles within the schools they trained at, or within other schools across the region. The connections you build with the CTA and partner schools will set you up for a rewarding career in education. The CTA is delighted to work with dedicated Alliance schools in the local area, all with the same shared vision and values, to bring new talented teaching professionals into schools and to develop the school leaders of tomorrow.

Inspire others Transform lives Teach

Train with us...

The

CTA offers:

A faith-based environment where you can grow professionally and spiritually.

School placements in our network of schools for real-world classroom experience.

Expert training and mentorship from Adrian Gormally and a team of experienced educators across the Alliance.

Flexible and personalised development to cater to your unique strengths and areas for growth.

Teacher training in your local area, based at one of our four local hubs: Preston Primary, Preston Secondary (Our Lady’s Catholic High School), Preston Post 16 (Cardinal Newman Catholic College), Blackburn Secondary (St. Bede’s Catholic High School).

A pathway to a long-term teaching career with potential employment opportunities in our schools.

What the CTA is looking for:

We are searching for graduates who have

WHAT TRAINEES HAVE TO SAY…

“I wholeheartedly recommend training with the CTA. It absolutely helps you become the teacher you want to be.”

“From the first moment, I felt very welcomed onto the course and very much supported throughout the year of study. The course allowed me to gain a lot of experience teaching in Catholic schools. Along with feeling very much supported by the course leaders, I have built up a real friendship with the other course members, feeling like we really do support each other on our journey together.”

“The Catholic Teaching Alliance is a lovely community which I am grateful to be a part of.”

“I will always be grateful for my supportive mentors during my placement and the Catholic Teaching Alliance who have helped me through this journey. I have really enjoyed teaching, being a part of CTA and seeing how far I’ve come.”

CATHOLIC TEACHING ALLIANCE

a passion for education, a commitment to supporting students’ personal development and academic pathways, and are willing to contribute to the wider teaching community. Whether you have a degree in a specific subject or a desire to teach more broadly, the CTA will help you turn your potential into excellence. The CTA offers PGCE with QTS courses across the Early Primary, Primary, Secondary and Post 16 phases.

How to apply

If you’re ready to make a difference in the world of education, apply today to train to teach with the CTA in partnership with the University of Cumbria. n

To find out more information about our PGCE with QTS courses and how to apply, visit our website catholic-teaching-alliance.org, email: the Director of ITT Adrian Gormally at CTA@olchs.lancs.sch.uk, or to speak to a member of the team telephone 01772 326931.

Catholic Teaching Alliance

Our Lady’s Catholic High School

St Anthony’s Drive, Fulwood, Preston PR2 3SQ 01772 326931

catholic-teaching-alliance.org

inception has been their commitment to a personalised experience, ensuring our customers are heard, looked after and are expertly advised throughout their own individual car-buying experience.

Still very much, first and foremost a family business, Bowker Motor Group’s Chief Executive is Paul Bowker, grandson of William.

Forty years in business is celebrated in style with another transformative chapter in the Bowker family’s automotive history – the acquisition of Porsche Centre Bolton, writes Katie Hammond

The Bowker name has been synonymous with prestige, quality and exceptional customer service in the Ribble Valley and beyond since William Henry Bowker made his first foray into the road transport industry in 1919. Diversification came in 1984 with the acquisition of Clock Garage in Accrington, which became the BMW retailer for East Lancashire, quickly followed by the franchise portfolio we know today and dealerships in Preston, Blackburn and Bolton. Bowker Ribble Valley is based on the A59 at

Osbaldeston, specialising in retailing prestige and sports cars and operating a fully equipped workshop with factory trained ATA technicians who provide all makes of car servicing and repairs, including MOT and tyre fitting.

FOR LANCASHIRE

CAR BUYERS, BOWKER REPRESENTS MORE THAN A DEALERSHIP – IT’S A HALLMARK OF AUTOMOTIVE EXCELLENCE AND TRUSTWORTHINESS

As perhaps the most trusted local dealer group with a long-standing reputation for excellence, Bowker is known for offering buyers a premium selection of new and used vehicles, with state-of-the-art Aftersales Centres for BMW, MINI and more recently, BMW Motorrad, INEOS Automotive and of course, Porsche.

A vein running through the history of this dynamic local business from its first

Sharing his thoughts on the longevity and the secrets of the family firm’s continued success and growth, Paul explains: “Right from the beginning, the whole ethos of our business has been to put our customers at the centre of everything that we do.

“For Lancashire car buyers, Bowker represents more than a dealership – it’s a hallmark of automotive excellence and trustworthiness. A reputation which we have taken great care to build and protect over our many years in business.

“We believe the Bowker name represents more than buying a car – it’s the beginning of a relationship where we aim to create a seamless ownership experience, which sees generations keep returning to buy their cars from us and trust in our aftercare, service and maintenance from thereon in.”

With the recent acquisition of Porsche Centre Bolton from Lithia Motors Group UK, Bowker continues to expand their prestige automotive franchise, with Bolton joining its geographical sister Porsche Centre Preston, taking Bowker

Photography: Pav SZ

Motor Group’s dealership portfolio total to nine across Lancashire.

Located on Manchester Road and serving Porsche owners and enthusiasts across Greater Manchester since its opening in 2006, Porsche Centre Bolton will now operate under the Bowker Motor Group umbrella, further bolstering the family’s firmly established regional presence.

Paul continues: “It is fitting that the acquisition comes in the year Bowker Motor Group celebrates its 40th anniversary.

THIS ACQUISITION REINFORCES OUR

COMMITMENT

TO DELIVERING EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE TO PORSCHE CUSTOMERS ACROSS THE WHOLE OF THE NORTH WEST

“We’re thrilled to welcome Porsche Centre Bolton to the Bowker family. This acquisition reinforces our commitment to delivering exceptional service to Porsche customers across the whole of the North West.

“In our 40th year in automotive retail, the values on which we built the business when we first started are the same values we see in Porsche Centre Bolton. We are proud to play our part in the next chapter of the Centre’s success and can’t wait to see, in turn, the part it plays in our Motor Group’s exciting future.”

Previously part of the Stratstone network, Porsche Centre Bolton benefits from a modern showroom for new and approved pre-owned vehicles and sector-leading service facilities, including a 12-bay workshop, a customerfacing vehicle inspection bay and a customer lounge with hospitality for customers choosing to remain at the centre while their vehicle is being serviced.

Bowker Motor Group opened Porsche Centre Preston in 2019. Since then, it has established itself as a multi-award-winning dealership. In 2020, it was ranked first in the UK for all aspects of operation by Porsche GB, with a personal commendation from Porsche Cars’ GB Managing Director Marcus Eckerman.

In 2021, the Centre’s commercial partnership with the two Michelin-star Moor Hall Restaurant in West Lancashire was recognised by Porsche GB as the Best Partnership in the UK, praised for its collaborative innovation and creativity. 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

NEW ERA

A new era of luxury has arrived in Preston with Loupe, part of family-owned jeweller Beaverbrooks, which opened the doors of its new boutique recently. Located on Fishergate, the boutique, which has transitioned from Whittles jewellers, is Loupe’s first location in the north of England and promises a modern and luxury watch, diamond and fine jewellery experience while continuing the same exceptional service that Whittles’ clients have cherished for over 160 years. Loupe remains the exclusive official Rolex retailer in Preston with the prestigious watch brand being an integral part of the boutique’s offering for over 50 years. Loupe Preston is also a stockist of luxury watches from OMEGA, Breitling and TUDOR. The boutique also showcases Loupe’s own collection of diamonds and exceptional contemporary fine jewellery. Anna Blackburn, Managing Director at

FLEET SOLUTIONS

Hippo Motor Group is excited to announce the launch of Hippo Fleet Solutions, a new division designed to provide bespoke vehicle leasing and fleet management services tailored to the needs of businesses across the Ribble Valley and beyond: “With the launch of Hippo Fleet Solutions, we’re excited to support local businesses by offering tailored solutions that make managing fleets simpler and more efficient,” said Tom Preston, Director of Hippo Motor Group. “Our goal is to help companies of all sizes thrive by taking the hassle out of fleet logistics so they can focus on what really matters – growing their business.”

Built on Hippo’s commitment to outstanding service, this new division was launched in response to growing demand for flexible, cost-effective fleet options. From SMEs to large enterprises, Hippo Fleet Solutions offers expert advice, a

WOODLAND MAINTENANCE

Bowker MINI employees recently completed a volunteer day with the Ribble Rivers Trust, assisting in woodland maintenance at Blue Slate Farm, Samlesbury. The project, located just off the M6 at Junction 31, involved staff from Bowker MINI’s Blackburn and Preston centres. Inspired by the MINI UK Big Love campaign, the team carried out tasks such as inspecting tree health, removing competing plants from tree guards, straightening tree stakes and marking trees needing replacement. Chris Eccles, for Bowker MINI, said: “It was great to return to Blue Slate Farm, where we had planted trees a couple of years ago. Seeing how they’ve grown and being part of their continued care was really rewarding for us.”

This latest conservation effort follows Bowker MINI’s long-standing collaboration with the Ribble Rivers Trust, which has seen the business and its staff participate in a range of environmental projects.

Beaverbrooks, said: “Marking our third Loupe boutique, we are excited to build on the best-in-class service which started with the Whittles brand in 1862.”

wide range of vehicles and leasing packages designed to suit every business need. hippofleetsolutions.co.uk

Jack Spees, CEO of the Ribble Rivers Trust, said: “The continued support from Bowker MINI is invaluable. Having their team back to help with woodland maintenance at Blue Slate Farm makes a real difference to the health of the woodland and the success of our long-term conservation efforts.”

ribbletrust.org.uk

NEW YEAR… NEW FINANCIAL PLAN

Happy New Year! Everybody in the Raymond James, Ribble Valley team sends you and your family every good wish for 2025

How are your New Year resolutions going? Do you even make any? Most people’s resolve has diminished by the end of January but at Raymond James, Ribble Valley we can help you to keep at least one excellent resolution – to review, understand and manage your financial future. And the New Year makes a great time to talk to our team!

Rachel Reeves’ first budget, delivered in October 2024, included measures which will have an impact on nearly everyone – changes to employer National Insurance contributions, reform of business and agricultural Inheritance Tax, the introduction of a charge on pension death benefits and an increase in the rate of Capital Gains Tax.

Whether you’re an existing client or someone who wants to take charge of your financial future for the first time, we can work with you to devise an investment plan aimed at meeting your financial goals. Your goals are of course unique to you and could be anything from making sure you can fund a three-decade retirement, planning an exit from your business, funding a child’s

education, or perhaps making sure your estate will end up with the people you want it to, for the reasons you choose. Or they could include having the confidence to enjoy the

THE BUDGET, DELIVERED IN OCTOBER 2024, INCLUDED MEASURES WHICH WILL HAVE AN IMPACT ON NEARLY EVERYONE

retirement you hoped for from years of work and saving. The changes brought by the budget mean that everyone should take the time and where necessary, the professional advice, to understand their impact on their financial position, now and in the future.

So, is 2025 the year when you take control of your financial future? At Raymond James, Ribble Valley our philosophy is built around understanding your goals and where you’re trying to get to: what would you like to be able to do, when would you like to do it and who do you want to share it with?

We’ll work with you to help review your current expenditure and calculate your current financial position. Pensions are often people’s second most valuable asset after their home but are frequently neglected. It’s important that they’re serviced and looked after accordingly, just like you would a car. For instance, such a considerable asset being invested largely out of line with your risk tolerance or an inappropriate asset allocation, could have a detrimental impact on your retirement plans. How much will your pension provide in retirement? How much should you be saving? How many years will your pension last at your desired standard of living before running out?

We’ll help you consider whether consolidating your existing assets is appropriate. It’s often the case that we amass a variety of pensions, investments and policies over our lifetime. Consolidating two or more existing pensions into one plan can bring many advantages including the benefits of having to review only one savings plan, the potential to save on plan charges and ensuring your investment risk is understood holistically rather than across several portfolios.

The Chancellor’s changes to the UK tax regime have given rise to a significant increase in the number of conversations the Raymond James, Ribble Valley team is having with our clients. Taxes are part of life but we don’t want you to have to pay any more tax than is necessary. Of particular significance to our existing client base are the changes around Inheritance Tax, particularly in respect of agricultural assets and Capital Gains Tax, especially regarding business owners looking to exit their business, whether by sale or passing to a family member. If you believe that any of the changes may affect you, then we’d love to hear from you.

By building a close personal relationship with you we can help assess risks to your financial plan. What could cost you your financial security and independence and what do we need to protect you from? What will happen to your financial security if the unexpected happens to you? The new tax charge on pension death benefits represents a new risk which we can help you to understand and navigate.

WE

AIM TO HELP CLIENTS GROW THEIR WEALTH, LIVE OFF THEIR WEALTH AND PASS ON THEIR WEALTH TO LOVED ONES

At Raymond James, Ribble Valley we aim to help clients grow their wealth, live off their wealth and pass on their wealth to loved ones. Our key service areas are savings and investments, pensions, tax-efficient retirement income, stockbroking and estate planning. More than that we offer the financial strength, infrastructure and resources of a large multinational investment company, with access to world-class systems and research. We don’t subcontract out to other service providers or companies.

So why not make 2025 the year you resolve to have a free initial conversation with the team at Raymond James, Ribble Valley? A warm welcome awaits. n

Risk warning: This article is intended for informational purposes only and no action should be taken or refrained from being taken as a consequence without consulting a suitably qualified and regulated person. With investment, your capital is at risk. Tax treatment depends on an investor’s individual circumstances and may be subject to change.

Raymond James Investment Services Limited

8 Berry Lane Longridge

Preston PR3 3JA 01772 780300

ribblevalley.raymondjames.uk.com

SIXTY YEARS OF GOLD

Chards Coin and Bullion Dealer, a family-run business with a rich history, has grown from humble beginnings to become one of the UK’s leading bullion dealers. Ali Gudgeon finds out more about the secret to its success

Founded in 1964 by Lawrence Chard, the business has grown from a small shop in Blackpool to one of the biggest bullion dealers in the United Kingdom. With expansions, including a prestigious London office in Hatton Garden, and a commitment to integrity, Chards offers unparalleled service and expertise, making it the premier choice for bullion investors.

Born and bred in Blackpool, Lawrence Chard realised from an early age that there was profit to be made from coins. The grandson of a penny arcade owner, Lawrence started

working in the family business at just seven years old. One of his first jobs was emptying the machines and sorting the coins on Blackpool Promenade and that is how Chards Coin and Bullion Dealer began!

I WAS JUST 20 YEARS OLD WHEN WE OPENED OUR FIRST PREMISES AND IT SERVED US WELL FOR OVER 40 YEARS, BUT WE EVENTUALLY OUTGREW IT

A regular customer to the arcades gave Lawrence and his cousin Robert Alan Chard a buying list of pennies and other British coins, and from this R. & L. Coins was born in 1964. A two-man business built on honesty, trust, transparency, and integrity opened in a tiny shop at 10 Dale Street. When Robert went to university aged 19 in 1965, he sold his share to Lawrence.

With a keen interest in numismatics and a commitment to ethical business practices, Lawrence continued to grow the business and hasn’t stopped since! A self-confessed workaholic, he is involved in every aspect of the business and it’s very much a family affair, with his wife, son and daughter all playing vital roles in the day-to-day running of the business.

Lawrence explains: “My work is very varied and can include grading coins, identifying

fakes, sales and purchases and of course financial planning. I keep up to date with all the latest business and industry news and of course world affairs.”

Thanks to his strong work ethic, Chards is now celebrating its 60th year in operation and with six decades of experience in the coin and bullion industry, Chards has become a trusted name in the Lancashire community and beyond.

Lawrence adds: “First opening in Blackpool in 1968, our Lytham Road location became a cornerstone of Chards Coin and Bullion Dealer’s operations, offering a wider range of products and more personalised service to our expanding clientele.

“I was just 20 years old when we opened our first premises and it served us well for over 40 years, but we eventually outgrew it. When our Lytham Road premises was being refurbished in 1968, two elderly ladies walked past and remarked, ‘that’ll never last!’ – we are pleased to have proved them wrong. In fact, we have probably outlived them!

“This new space allowed for a broader selection of bullion and collectible coins, meeting the growing demands of our customers. The opening of this store marked a significant expansion and demonstrated our commitment to adapting and growing with the market.”

As the digital age dawned, Chards embraced the opportunities it presented by launching an online platform in 1999. They were among the first in the UK to offer bullion products through an E-commerce site, setting a precedent for the industry.

After 50 years in business, Chards expanded to a new showroom in Harrowside in the seaside town and remains their current home. Now celebrating 60 years of trusted service, Chards Coin and Bullion Dealer opened a new office in London’s prestigious Hatton Garden in early 2024.

Lawrence adds: “This strategic move represents our dedication to providing unparalleled service to clients across the UK, with a physical presence in both the North and the South of England. The Hatton Garden office is poised to cater to a diverse clientele, offering the same level of integrity and expertise that has defined our business since its inception.”

CHARDS HAS A FORMIDABLE REPUTATION FOR RELIABILITY AND INTEGRITY IN THE BULLION INDUSTRY

Thanks to their commitment to providing exceptional service, backed by a wealth of experience and a strong family business ethos, Chards has a formidable reputation for reliability and integrity in the bullion industry. Earlier this year, Chards became a full member of the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA), the independent authority overseeing the global precious metals market. Something not all its competitors can boast.

Lawrence also likes to share his knowledge and educate others. The company’s website houses a number of blogs, from a guide for UK bullion investors, through to exploring £100,000 in fake gold sovereigns. He also set up a YouTube channel where he shares

behind-the-scenes videos, words of wisdom and useful guides.

As Chards looks forward to the next 60 years, the company remains dedicated to providing the highest quality coins, bullion, and service to its customers. With a strong foundation built on trust, expertise, and a commitment to excellence, Chards is wellpositioned to continue serving the coin and bullion community for many years to come.

Lawrence concludes: “Our vision for the future includes expanding our product offerings, leveraging technological advancements to enhance customer experience, and continuing to build lasting relationships based on trust and reliability. We are excited about the opportunities ahead and look forward to helping our customers navigate the evolving landscape of precious metals investment.” n

Chards

32-36 Harrowside, Blackpool FY4 1RJ 01253 343081 chards.co.uk

FINDING FINANCIAL WELLBEING

Gail

“Ihelp families make wise financial decisions and live their best possible lives, by taking away the fear of running out of money,” was the bold and heartfelt opening statement when I met Gary Ward, founder and managing director of Blue Sky Family Wealth Management.

Based in Longridge and Stockport, Gary has built his company with a simple ethos at its core – to provide honest, caring and trustworthy financial advice that genuinely helps people. “Blue Sky is a business where every client feels valued and heard and where we focus on long-term relationships –not just transactions.”

With a career in the financial services industry spanning over 35 years, Gary is well placed to guide and advise customers on their best financial options. However, personal experience has shaped Gary’s outlook to the same degree as his professional life: “I lost my

father and my wife too early. I was working in financial services and striving to achieve the best I could for my family. Promotions, pay rises and savings cannot though replace time with your loved ones.

I REALLY WANT TO HELP MY CLIENTS DEFINE WHAT A FULFILLING LIFE LOOKS LIKE FOR THEM AND THEN WORK TO SECURE THAT LIFE

“Through the pain of those losses, I came to understand one vital truth – we only get one shot at this life and we need to make it count. The regrets of not living fully are crushing, both for those nearing the end and for the loved ones left behind,” says Gary poignantly.

“This realisation transformed not only how I live but also how I approach financial planning. Today, I help my clients define what a fulfilling life looks like for them and

then work to secure that life. It’s not just about accumulating wealth, it’s about making sure you spend your money on the experiences that will bring joy and meaning to your life. I make it a point to ensure my clients understand the full range of possibilities open to them and I actively encourage them to embrace those opportunities.”

Financial coaching, retirement planning, estate and generational wealth planning, business advice, savings and investment and financial protection are the key services Gary can offer. Blue Sky Family Wealth Management aims to provide the financial independence needed to avoid the damaging financial effects of Inheritance Tax and long-term care.

Family wealth management is not only about advising older generations on how best to manage their finances for their family’s inheritance but also to guide, educate and support younger generations before they inherit, as Gary explains: “Clients want to ensure that when they leave their money they are leaving certainty for their family. Anyone not experienced in managing finances can struggle if they suddenly inherit money they perhaps aren’t used to. We ensure that we work closely with families on a bespoke basis to give them financial security in the long term.”

When not working, Gary is very much a community stalwart and loves to be involved in locally based initiatives: “I am incredibly proud to have been the creator of the Longridge Soap Box Derby,” he says. “We have now safely delivered three derbies, which have raised nearly £60,000 for local charities and hospices, while also entertaining the thousands of spectators who travel into the town.”

Gary is also Chair of the Love Longridge Business Group and works closely with colleagues in the group who are all committed to improving the town. n

Contact Gary to discuss your own financial objectives.

Sky Family Wealth Management Suite 15, Longridge Business Centre Stonebridge Mill, Kestor Lane Longridge PR3 3AD 0800 061 4892

support@blueskyfwm.com blueskyfwm.com

NEW CHAPTER

Jimmy Anderson’s rise to fame was meteoric. Carol Wilson takes a look back at an amazing international cricketing career that lasted for 21 years. Photography: Robert Wilson

The end of Jimmy Anderson’s Test cricket career drew one chapter to a close and opened a new one, in every sense.

The Burnley-born cricketer’s autobiography ‘Jimmy Anderson: Finding the Edge’ delves into what made him England’s highest Test wicket-taker of all time – from being bullied at school to the on-field rivalries and off-field heartache.

“As a player, you don’t get a chance to reflect much – there’s always the next over to bowl, the next game to play – and so I can’t wait to get into this, to tell the story of the journey so far, because it’s been truly unforgettable,” he says of his book, which is an honest, revealing and at times, moving account of his life both in and out of cricket.

Given the career he carved out for himself it is hard to imagine that, growing up in East Lancashire, Anderson dreamed of being someone else – somewhere else. Little did he know that he would travel the world doing what he loved most in the world.

But he had to endure some pain to get there, both physical and emotional.

Anderson describes school as a tough time for him and how one day, he walked halfway to Heptonstall with a ham sandwich to escape it. Anything to avoid those who tormented him.

Cricket became his escape and ultimately his ‘family’. Anderson, who was inspired by sporting greats like Boris Becker and Daley Thompson as a child, feels like he found himself after finding like-minded people at Burnley Cricket Club.

His rise from the second team at Turf Moor to Lancashire to England was meteoric. His international career began at the age of just 20, lasted for 21 years and included four Ashes victories.

He claimed the wicket of Australia’s Adam Gilchrist on his England debut – in a one-day match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on 15th December 2002.

His Test debut came five months later, against Zimbabwe at Lord’s, where he took five wickets in an England win and had his named etched on the Lord’s honours board.

Lord’s is where it all ended after a total

of 188 Tests and 704 Test match wickets, two shy of the tallies of legendary spinners Shane Warne and Muttiah Muralitharan but more than any other pace bowler in the history of the game.

England became the number one cricketing nation while he was at the peak of his bowling powers and it was a game, a career, a life and lifestyle that he desperately did not want to walk away from.

Anderson explains how the decision to retire was one that was made for him, by Brendon McCullum, head coach of the England men’s Test team and captain Ben Stokes, with the crushing blow delivered in a bar of a Manchester hotel.

ENGLAND BECAME THE NUMBER ONE CRICKETING NATION WHILE HE WAS

AT THE PEAK OF HIS BOWLING

POWERS

He recalls in the book: “As I walk towards them it hits me cold. This isn’t a team appraisal, is it? I feel like Joe Pesci in Goodfellas, ushered into a room under the impression that I’m going to get made, only to be shot.”

He concedes that is probably how his story was meant to be written, having the whole process taken out of his hands and learning to navigate it as it all unfolded with one last hurrah and Lord’s ovation.

The book, written with Felix White and published by Blink Publishing, travels at a pace as quick and sharp as Anderson’s bowling, with the 293 pages separated into 55 mostly bite-sized chapters.

Anderson, now 42, offers a dressing room view of some of the more memorable cricketing moments, such as Kevin Pietersen’s ‘textgate’ and from a more personal perspective the rivalries he shared with Michael Clarke and Sachin Tendulkar, alongside his friendships with Alastair Cook and Stuart Broad.

Behind his cricketing fame and profile is a family man, who details his experiences of personal loss and the impact becoming a husband and father had on him, both on and off the field.

Of the birth of his second daughter Ruby,

a sister for Lola, in the midst of an Ashes series in Australia, he wrote: “They are going to teach me that cricket is not the only thing in the world for me to live for and this in turn is going to help teach me to not grip it as tight, to let it flow through me, let it be whatever it is.”

Reflecting on his final Test, he writes: “Suck it in, I tell myself and allow this to happen, it is magical to experience this. Not many will. Once upon a time I dreamed of being this person. Be him one more time before he has to go. Chris Woakes gives me a hug as it calms and as I reach the end of my run-up, waiting to bowl my first ball I flash back for a moment to my debut, at this very same mark, on this same patch of grass. Then, I trembled with nerves, questioning whether I belonged. Here, I just breathe in, let go, remind myself what ball I’m going to bowl and set off.” n

‘Jimmy Anderson: Finding the Edge’ is available in hardback from all good booksellers £25.

IN THE RAW…

With many top nutritionists focusing on gut health, raw milk is one of the purest forms of nourishment

The health benefits of raw milk are becoming increasingly recognised thanks to it being unpasteurised, unhomogenised, antibiotic free and with a natural high level of omega fatty acids –as well as it being super-creamy and delicious!

Nutrient-dense raw milk also possesses healthy bacteria promoting gut health, which is something that has become increasingly popular due to the work of respected medics including Professor Tim Spector, who promotes the relationship between nutrition and gut microbiome.

He strongly advocates against ultra

processed food (UPF) and raw milk could be viewed as one of the most natural and purest of foods.

Emma Robinson’s family have been farming in the Ribble Valley for generations with species-rich hay meadows that have a direct impact on the milk they produce. The heritage meadows have over 80 species with every plant helping to build a diverse and healthy local ecosystem.

Grazing on the hay meadows, is a herd of rare-breed Old English Shorthorns that have a natural ability to turn feed into beautiful creamy milk: “Milk has always been one

To retail raw milk in the UK, the milk must undergo stringent tests including regular bactoscans which measure the individual bacteria in the milk, which can often be dependent on the conditions in which the cows are kept plus the cleanliness of the plant used for milking and bottling.

“A lot of bacteria is good bacteria and the tests all indicate that the processes we use are really clean,” says Emma, whose job it is to ensure that everything is washed and rinsed at the correct temperatures.

FROM A NUTRITIONAL ANGLE, RAW MILK IS EXTREMELY GOOD AS IT CONTAINS LARGE AMOUNTS OF HEALTHY SATURATED FATS AND OMEGA-3

The plant is cleaned with hot water at 80 degrees with a solution that kills bacteria and stops any of the fat particles from the milk clinging to the equipment. It is then rinsed to get rid of any residue. Emma explains: “A critical part of the process is the cleanliness of the cow’s udder which I wash and sterilise by hand and of course, we have to ensure the tanks and bottling processes are all routinely checked and spotless.”

Raw milk is a probiotic which aids gut health, as Emma’s partner Ian explains: “Seratonin is the feel-good hormone that is produced in the brain and, as we now know, what goes on in the brain starts in the gut.”

Since they began producing raw milk

Emma and Ian have had lots of feedback from customers and while the benefits of it may not have been scientifically proved, the results speak for themselves: “We have had customers who have children with eczema that eases off when they drink raw milk and flares up when they don’t. We had one mum whose six-week-old baby wouldn’t take breast milk or formula which was becoming a big problem – she tried the Weston A Price baby formula which incorporates raw milk of the most important things we produce and we began thinking about producing raw milk to sell ourselves back in 2008,” recalls Emma.

and eight weeks later she came back with a thriving baby.

“A pregnant mum with a gut problem who, rather than take supplements, turned to raw milk. Once she had tried it, she found she just couldn’t function without it. So, there’s something in there somewhere.”

Apart from being full of flavour, from a nutritional angle, raw milk is extremely good as it contains large amounts of healthy saturated and omega-3 fats that supports skin hydration. The probiotics in raw milk can also balance bad bacteria in your gut.

“Raw milk is 96 per cent fat free,” says Emma. “Having only between four or five percent fat is very low, but it still seems to get bad press.

“Because it’s so natural, your body understands it – as a species we have spent thousands of years eating raw, unprocessed foods so your body recognises this type of fat.”

Looking after the Gazegill herd on a daily basis, Emma and Ian focus on animal welfare

to get the best milk and they understand how the herd needs to adapt to the seasons: “In the summer the milk is really yellow due to how they eat – in winter the milk

AS WE NOW KNOW, WHAT GOES ON IN THE BRAIN STARTS IN THE GUT

yield drops as they prioritise their energy and channel it into keeping warm. We understand the yield is going to drop and why – we just accept that’s the way it is and we don’t try to change it.

“We don’t push our animals, they can’t produce consistently high yields all year round. In intensive farming cows have a natural life span of around six years – we have had cows live into their 20s due to the good, natural methods we practice at Gazegill but unfortunately that’s not the norm.”

In the Gazegill organic restaurant Emma’s soft-serve ice-cream is used regularly in the desserts: “We are probably the only restaurant doing this – serving ice-cream made from raw milk, produced by a rare-breed herd of organic cattle.”

Gazegill also makes its own ricotta cheese and chef Doug Crampton has refined the whey from the ricotta, into a whey caramel, which is used to dress spiced winter tartlets and tuilles: “It’s amazing!” concludes Emma. n

SCOTTISH TWIST ON PASTA

This unusual take on pasta, from Booths Supermarket, provides a delicious combination of wholesome Scottish food with traditional Italian cuisine

It’s not the way haggis is normally served –with neither neep nor tattie in sight –but this imaginative cannelloni combines two culinary favourites to perfection. In a complete break with tradition you might even be tempted to serve it on Burns Night –although that could be a step too far!

Ingredients:

500g haggis, chopped 1 onion, finely diced 25ml vegetable oil

2 garlic cloves, crushed 1 tsp mixed herbs

400g tinned chopped tomatoes

1 pack fresh lasagne sheets

1 tub Booths Arrabbiata sauce

300g Booths 5 cheese sauce

25g parmesan, grated

Salt and pepper, to taste

SPICY HAGGIS ARRABBIATA STUFFED CANNELLONI

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 200˚C / 180˚C Fan / 375˚F / Gas Mark 5.

2. In a large frying pan, fry the haggis and onion in the vegetable oil until the haggis fully breaks down and crumbles.

3. Add the crushed garlic, mixed herbs and half of the chopped tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes. Season to taste.

4. Remove from the heat and allow to cool for 15 minutes.

5. Spread the other half of the chopped tomatoes evenly into an ovenproof dish and season to taste.

6. Carefully roll each lasagne sheet to form a tube and fill with the haggis mix, then place on top of the chopped tomatoes.

7. Top the haggis cannelloni with the Arrabbiata sauce then the 5 cheese sauce and sprinkle over the grated parmesan.

8. Bake in the oven for 35 minutes until golden brown.

9. Serve with salad.

Chef’s Tip:

Try changing the pasta to linguine or spaghetti for a twist on Bolognese. Then top with the cheese sauce and parmesan and grill until the top browns and bubbles. n

booths.co.uk

DINE IN STYLE

Jules is the brand-new stylish restaurant at Mytton Fold Hotel, and I was lucky enough to go along and sample the amazing menu, writes Gail Bailey

The concept of new restaurant Jules was to bring a city feel to the Ribble Valley and to create a contemporary light and airy space. And as you enter, the vibrant colours, including rich greens and orange, really do immediately set the tone. Restaurant Manager Alex Szkodzinski says: “Owner Colin Mustoe and the whole team spent time creating Jules with a real attention to detail, to enhance the customer experience from the moment you enter.”

Executive Chef Ian Kershaw has been at Mytton Fold for nearly three years and is excited to be a key part of the new venture: “We have completely overhauled the menus,” he says. “We now have a much more varied offering including an extensive lunch and a la carte menu, a brand-new brunch menu,

a full plant-based option, hand-stretched pizzas along with Sunday lunch and afternoon tea options too.

“We wanted to meet the needs of all our customers and this includes corporate business clients for lunch or dinner, our hotel guests and diners and as we are only across the road from a school, we really want families to come along and dine with us too.”

Jules at Mytton Fold is proud to be able to showcase a high level of locally sourced produce across the menus including family-run farm butcher Penny’s Meats, famous master butchers Cowman’s of Clitheroe and Clitheroe’s finest fishmonger, Wellgate Fisheries.

Some of the key dishes on the menu are delicious hand-stretched pizzas with the dough and sauces all made in Jules’ kitchen and topped with a tasty range of fresh and local ingredients such as buffalo mozzarella, tomato and honey roast ham or wild mushrooms, tomato, red onion and truffle oil.

As we entered the restaurant to sample first-hand the wonderful dishes at Jules, we were warmly greeted and shown to our table and immediately felt relaxed and happy to be there. As I am a vegetarian and my partner a pescatarian, we often have limited choices when we dine out – but not at Jules, there was a wide offering across the menus and we chose well! We shared starters of salt and pepper cauliflower combined perfectly with a soy and ginger dipping sauce along with a crisp taco bowl which was so fresh and tasty – especially as it was accompanied with spiced tomato, guacamole and vegan feta.

JULES AT MYTTON FOLD IS PROUD TO BE ABLE TO SHOWCASE A HIGH LEVEL OF LOCALLY SOURCED PRODUCE

Our main courses were equally mouthwatering as I chose crisp tofu in a kombu dashi broth with chilli and rice noodles – a perfect flavour combination. My partner opted for the wholesome Lancashire fish pie which included cod, smoked haddock and salmon – a delicious mix of classic seafood flavours served with buttered greens and warm ciabatta.

As we both have a sweet tooth we were spoilt for choice with the dessert menu. I opted for the apple crumble which was

Photography: Kirsten Platt

Photography: Kirsten Platt

recommended by restaurant manager Alex and I was pleasantly surprised that it comprised of a whole warm baked apple sitting on an oat and cinnamon crumble which was unbelievably tasty that I didn’t want it to come to an end! It was served with a sweet and classic vanilla ice cream, and I would highly recommend diners to try it.

My partner chose the great British favourite Arctic roll, which was made with dark chocolate and served with an orange gel, milk ice cream and a chocolate soil – this was incredibly tasty and also a work of art on the plate – it both looked and tasted amazing!

Chef Ian’s favourite on the menu is a pork tasting dish which features a bacon wrapped pork fillet, slow cooked shoulder and Madeira braised pig’s cheek, served on a bed of buttery mashed potato with wilted spinach: “It’s flavourful, delicious and something that you

might not expect to see on the Jules menu –but we’re full of surprises!” he says.

With a seasonal afternoon tea on offer boasting sweet treats all hand-crafted onsite

by the in-house pastry chef, there really is something to suit every palate.

IT’S FLAVOURFUL, DELICIOUS AND SOMETHING THAT YOU MIGHT NOT EXPECT TO SEE ON THE JULES MENU – BUT WE’RE FULL OF SURPRISES!

Ian adds: “We know Jules Restaurant will become a go-to destination for fabulous food and atmosphere in the Ribble Valley and we can’t wait to welcome everyone.” n

Photography: Kirsten Platt

Photography: Kirsten Platt

Photography: Kirsten Platt

INSPIRED BY NATURE

As we embrace the colder, shorter days restaurant Eight at Gazegill by Doug Crampton is the perfect place to enjoy all that nature has to offer throughout the winter season, writes Gail Bailey

Since opening its doors earlier this year Eight at Gazegill continues to surprise and delight customers with a perfect combination of nature led farming and the masterful kitchen experience brought by acclaimed chef Doug Crampton. As Restaurant Manager Kim Talbot explains: “The core of Gazegill’s farming ethos threads seamlessly into the restaurant and our menus

are driven by a passion for local, seasonal and organic food, combined with the commitment to sustainable farming.”

Chef Patron Doug Crampton is the former Head Chef at James Martin Manchester and has worked alongside James Martin since the restaurant’s launch in 2013 with a focus on producing menus which offer a mix of

OUR CUSTOMERS

ENJOY GAZEGILL ORGANIC ROAST SIRLOIN WITH RED WINE GRAVY AND DRIPPING ROASTIES, YORKSHIRE PUDDING, OUR RENOWNED BBQ CARROTS, DODDINGTON CAULIFLOWER CHEESE AND ORGANIC GREENS – IT DOESN’T GET MUCH BETTER!

classic British cuisine: “Doug has a wealth of knowledge and shares the commitment of Gazegill Organics for a true farm to fork offering, which makes the collaboration at Eight at Gazegill the perfect pairing,” says Kim.

The menus at Eight at Gazegill offer the very best each season has to offer and in winter this means a focus on hearty dishes and game such as Downham Estate venison

loin with smoked beetroot, wild spiced kofta pine and sloe gin, followed by a Gazegill apple tart served with ‘Emma’s Dairy’ raw milk soft serve ice cream and garnished with brambles and meadowsweet: “Our menus change as the seasons do and Doug and the team are highly skilled in creating the perfect dishes with the ingredients nature has to offer.”

Sunday lunches remain as popular as ever and booking is highly recommended. Kim says: “At only £45 for three courses our Sunday lunches are the perfect thing to do on a crisp winter’s day in the countryside. Our customers enjoy Gazegill organic roast sirloin with red wine gravy and dripping roasties, Yorkshire pudding, our renowned BBQ carrots, Doddington cauliflower cheese and organic greens – it doesn’t get much better!”

Over the winter months there is a change of opening times during the day with brunch being served between 10 and 12 noon and lunch from 12 until 3pm – perfect for walkers: “We open Thursday through until Sunday with brunch, lunch, tapas, dinner and Sunday lunch menus ensuring we cater for all, including children who are very welcome at Eight at Gazegill. We even have a fully enclosed play area so parents can relax while their children play happily in a safe space – surrounded by nature,” Kim adds.

A successful foragers event was held in October hosted jointly by Eight at Gazegill and professional forager Craig Worrall of Edible Leeds – a specialist wild food forager, teacher and chef who has been teaching, cooking, writing and experimenting with wild foods for 15 years.

GAZEGILL IS COMMITTED TO ORGANIC, SUSTAINABLE FARMING AND THIS THREADS INTO THE VERY ETHOS OF THE DISHES CREATED BY DOUG AND HIS TEAM

“Craig is a big advocate of wild foods and the natural world, for a host of reasons, including health and wellbeing and a deeper understanding of nature,” explains Kim. “We feel very lucky to be working with him and will be holding a second Foragers Feast at the end of January 2025 where customers can join us for fabulous food and listen to Craig and Doug join together to share their passion for food with a focus on reconnecting people to the natural world.”

At Eight at Gazegill it is less about specific signature dishes and all about showcasing the best of the produce coming from the farm at any given time: “An example of this are our Forager’s Chipolatas which have zero food miles,” says Kim. “We use our own organic pork, seasoned with ingredients that are foraged from the fields and hedgerows and

then glazed with our own honey.

“Eight at Gazegill by Doug Crampton is a celebration of our own organic meat and local artisan producers and championing sustainability, quality and an accessible, welcoming restaurant for all,” says Kim.

“Welcome to the dining experience that has a conscious obligation to nature and a creative dedication in the kitchen!” n

JANUARY OPEN DATE

The restaurant and the team take a well earned break at the beginning of January and will re-open on Thursday 9th January.

Lower Gazegill Farm

Dancer Lane, Rimington Clitheroe, Lancashire BB7 4EE 01200 445519

reservations@eightatgazegill.co.uk

eightatgazegill.co.uk

Welcome to The Fleece at Addingham

You’ll find old meets new in our characterful pub. A traditional Yorkshire taproom, pub and dining room with open fires and low ceilings, is complemented by a first-floor wine bar, private dining room and function room, all available for private hire from small coffee meetings to christenings, birthdays and weddings. Our buffet menu starts from just £14 per person, with bespoke menus available to accommodate all occasions.

During January and February, we offer 20% off food

JOIN THE CLUB

SPC MEMBERS JOIN THE CLUB

Monday to Friday for our SPC Members –so be sure to sign up. What better excuse to visit and make the most of our menu of British classics, signature specials and flavours from around the world.

It’s free to join and open to everybody.

It’s free to join and open to everybody.

Build points for every pound you spend on food, drink and accommodation. Points turn into currency, and in addition to your points, you will receive exclusive rewards and discounts.

Build points for every pound you spend on food, drink and accommodation. Points turn into currency, and in addition to your points, you will receive exclusive rewards and discounts.

Sign up here and receive a £5 voucher to enjoy on your next visit.

Sign up here and receive a £5 voucher to enjoy on your next visit.

SPC MEMBERS JOIN THE CLUB

It’s free to join and open to everybody.

Build points for every pound you spend on food, drink and accommodation. Points turn into currency, and in addition to your points, you will receive exclusive rewards and discounts.

Sign up and receive a £5 voucher to enjoy on your next visit.

MAKING SUNDAY LUNCH MEMORABLE

Treat yourself to a Sunday away from the kitchen and enjoy a different take on the classic weekend treat along with a glass of something nice, writes Katie

Hammond

Since opening its doors in June this year, the beautifully converted Barclay’s bank building on Castle Street, Clitheroe, is staged for the second act in the success story of Will’s in Barrowford.

Will’s in Clitheroe’s has a winning combination of industrial and contemporary, with its cosy booths and warm lighting, coupled with a delicious choice of Will’s signature small plates to enjoy with an array of award-winning wines and beers, makes this town centre gem the perfect venue for a quick catch up with friends or for a more intimate celebration.

Explaining why listening to guests influences menu changes and updates, owner Will Farnworth says: “We have been

blown away by the positive reception and warm welcome we’ve received in Clitheroe. We love feedback about what our customers would like to see from us and something that’s been mentioned is somewhere to enjoy a Sunday roast in the centre of town – this has also been a popular request from our Barrowford customers.

“We’ve listened to them and have, of course, added the unique Will’s twist to

SUNDAY LUNCH MENU*

Two courses £30 / Three courses £35

Starters

English mustard sausage rolls & home made brown sauce

Bang bang cauliflower, chilli, spring onion, coconut & sesame (VE) (GF)

Roasted tomato soup, & sourdough cheese toastie (V) (GFO)

Mains

Roasted rib of Ribble Valley Hereford beef, Yorkshire pudding & red wine beef sauce

Baked celeriac gratin, grain mustard & maple sauce

Sunday roasts are served alongside roast potatoes, roast carrots, chestnut sprouts & pancetta, cauliflower cheese, served family style

Desserts

Sticky toffee pudding, boozy butterscotch & clotted cream ice cream

Granny Smiths apple & cranberry pie, boozy custard

*This is just a small sample of the great dishes on offer, see the website for the full menu

the traditional and loved Sunday staple –we’re really looking forward to welcoming diners to enjoy what we’ve created from local, carefully-sourced produce. The different course options also offer great value for money.”

OUR ETHOS HAS ALWAYS BEEN THAT WE JUST DO THE SIMPLE THINGS REALLY WELL

Whether it’s the Sunday lunch menu, featuring delights such as roasted rib of Ribble Valley Hereford beef, Yorkshire pudding and red wine beef sauce and Middlewhite pork belly with a toffee apple sauce, or a few of Will’s famous small tapas-style plates to accompany a glass of wine, there’s something to suit every taste and mood.

Looking back on the story so far, Will reflects: “Since opening in Barrowford five years ago, our ethos has always been that we just do the simple things really well. We pride ourselves on our fantastic team and their friendly service – it’s personal but casual. We just want everyone who joins us to have a great time.”

Experience the best of Clitheroe and Barrowford – one plate, one glass and one memorable moment at a time. n

i l l’s

Will’s Wine Bar and Kitchen

41 Castle Street, Clitheroe BB7 2BT Unit 1A, The Fountains Gisburn Road, Barrowford BB9 6DX info@willswinebar.com willswinebar.com

ELEGANCE AT STUNNING PERIOD HOTEL

The Haweswater Hotel has been wonderfully restored to recapture the elegance and style of the 1930s. Mark Dixon enjoys the hotel’s period charm and irresistible à la carte menu

I’ve been a frequent visitor to the car park at the end of Haweswater for years. In fact, it’s one of my favourite spots in all the Lakes. Not the car park as such but the fells towering above it. The highest of which is High Street. At 828 metres (2,717 ft), its summit is the highest point in the far eastern part of the national park. The fell is named after the Roman road, which crosses the fell between Roman forts at Brougham near Penrith and Ambleside.

Although the route takes the road higher than any other Roman road in England, the High Street range has quite gentle slopes and a flat summit plateau, characteristics that may have persuaded Roman surveyors to build the road over the fell tops rather than through the valleys which were

densely forested and marshy making them susceptible to ambush.

But what first attracted me to this particular fell, apart from its sheer majesty, was its other name, Racecourse Hill. It is understood that this was the venue for the first Mardale Shepherds’ Meets, when people from the surrounding valleys gathered

annually on 12th July to return stray sheep to their owners and horses would be taken up to the summit, along with barrels of beer and food. Games and wrestling also took place as well as horse racing. People and horses must have been bred differently in those days! The last of the summer fairs was held in 1835. The Shepherds’ Meets continued to be held until 1935. It is recorded that in 1927 more than 700 people attended the event.

OUR BEDROOM REFERENCING 1930S DESIGN WITH DARK-COLOURED WALLS, ENAMELLED BEDSTEADS AND RUGS ON WOODEN FLOORS WAS A LOVELY SUITE WITH DRAMATIC VIEWS OF THE LAKE

The Haweswater Hotel, which can rightfully claim one of the quietest locations in one of England’s most popular regions, was built in 1937 when Haweswater Reservoir was created in the 1930s by building a huge dam and flooding the valley and the village of Mardale Green. Here, beside the lonely

reservoir, surrounded by rocky and brackencovered slopes rising to the higher fells, the recent revamp of the modernist / art deco masterpiece offers period details aplenty, as well as comfy beds, colourful bathrooms and cinematic views. Add the full flavours of Mark Greenaway’s restaurant and you’ve got an experience that is a memorable pleasure.

Visitors come here for the peace and solitude, for the wildlife, (although the solitary Golden Eagle of Riggindale has unfortunately not been sighted for years) and for the walking – either around the lake (part of the Coast-to-Coast route) or up the surrounding fells. To say how peaceful it felt and (just 13 miles away as the crow flies from the sometimes-throbbing crowds of Ambleside) – it’s easy to reach, too –amazingly, the M6 (Junction 40) is just 20 minutes away.

Entering the hotel you see original parquet flooring, boldly patterned linoleum, a wide oak staircase, dado panelling and arched metal-framed windows – making the most of the views – all having been wonderfully restored. The pitted floor of the restaurant looked like it had held 1930s dances where stilettos had taken a toll. We reflected on individual stories at that innocent time before war again took its terrible toll.

Bevelled sideboards and bureaux, frosted light fittings, leather sofas and chromeframe chairs, plus several tiled fireplaces enhanced the public rooms which all felt snug and welcoming.

Our bedroom referencing 1930s design with dark-coloured walls, enamelled bedsteads and rugs on wooden floors was a lovely suite with dramatic views of the lake. A comfy king size bed with dreamy pillows was separated from our bathroom, with ingenious plunge pool bath/shower, by a stylish lounge area complete with Chesterfield leather sofa.

After an afternoon of walking, we enjoyed a pre-dinner drink in the lounge with its open fire and were ravenous when we took our seats in the restaurant, overseen by Scottish chef Mark Greenaway (who also

and Grazing

hotel). The hotel bar offers classic French dishes while Mark’s eponymously named restaurant – sultry with sea-blue walls and Tiffany lampshades – is a fine dining experience.

Feeling slightly guilty that we plumped for the à la carte (£50, two courses; £60, three courses) rather than the tasting menu where you can choose between three, five or seven courses with delights such as scallops, pork

WE HEADED BACK UP TOWARDS HIGH STREET AND GOT THE GIDDY FEELING THAT WE HAD HAWESWATER AND ITS SURROUNDING FELLS TO OURSELVES

a meal in itself.

My companion followed up with pan roasted salmon and chorizo sausage with white bean cassoulet, whilst I couldn’t resist the braised beef bourguignon (pearl onions, mash, button mushrooms). Accompanied by delicious green beans in shallot & chervil butter. Washed down with a French Picpoul and a Romanian Pinot Noir, we just had room for a superb Cumbrian cheese selection.

The next morning we knew another long walk awaited so breakfast of kippers and smoked haddock respectively set us up nicely.

Staff were eager to help, knowledgeable and proud of their distinctive hotel.

We headed back up towards High Street and got the giddy feeling that we had Haweswater and its surrounding fells to ourselves. And said to each other what a wonderful antidote this had been to the bustling high streets of our usual lives. n

runs Pivot in London’s Covent Garden

in Edinburgh’s Waldorf Astoria

crackling, sea vegetables and Roscoff onion, lamb haggis, turnip, potato, we tucked into the soup, a curried cauliflower spectacular which was almost

we think the wine club will give us the opportunity to give guests a further elevated experience. Local expert Richard Bracken from Milestone Wines will be on hand to guide them through wines that are superbly paired with the five-course tasting menu to give expert knowledge which will be enlightening and interesting for all fine food and wine lovers.”

A TOAST TO EXCELLENCE

Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a curious enthusiast, an exclusive wine club, introduced by what is fast becoming one of the Ribble Valley’s most celebrated pubs, will further elevate the gastronomic experience, writes Katie Hammond

Since opening in the spring of 2023, Bob Geldeard’s labour of love and food has seen his vision of excellence realised with startling aplomb and clarity.

The latest addition to the Rum Fox’s popular repertoire promises to be an unparalleled experience, pairing celebrated and award-winning wines from suppliers Milestone Wines of Clitheroe with the menu’s exquisite flavours – a true celebration of taste, heritage and discovery.

Having built on his solid reputation as head chef at both the Duke of York, Grindleton and The Higher Buck, Waddington, Bob and partner Kiaja set about turning their ambitious vision into reality when they took on the

run-down and derelict former Buck Inn in Grindleton and transformed it to what is today a stunningly restored Georgian country pub and restaurant, viewed by many as the ultimate local dining experience.

THIS

BEAUTIFUL RIBBLE VALLEY INN HAS BEEN PRAISED IN THE GOOD FOOD GUIDE 2024, AND IT IS SET FOR MANY MORE INDUSTRY PLAUDITS AS ITS BRIGHT STAR RISES

Bob says: “We have worked hard to showcase some of the best seasonal and local produce that the Ribble Valley has to offer. For us, it’s about the whole dining experience and

The new year ahead is set to see this beautiful Ribble Valley inn, described as ‘One of Britain’s Cosiest Pubs’ by the Good Food Guide 2024, set for many more industry plaudits as its bright star rises and soars.

Bob continues: “We have so much more in store for 2025 and beyond and we’ve loved welcoming locals and guests from further afield since opening. It’s great to know that people are loving what we do and the cherry on the cake is being placed as finalists in the Lancashire Tourism Awards and ‘One to Watch’ in the Top 50 Gastro pubs.”

Open from midday from Wednesday to Sunday, the ever-popular Saturday and Sunday lunch slots mean booking is essential, especially at weekends – go and see what makes this beautiful fox so special. n

DARK CHOCOLATE, AVOCADO AND LIME TART

This delectable tart is a resolution-proof treat with no added sugar, flour, eggs or unnecessary fats – light on the tummy yet totally yummy!

Photography: Jacqui Shepherd

Makes:

Cuts into 12 portions

Ingredients and equipment:

200g roasted hazelnuts, roughly chopped

1 x 22cm (9inch) spring form cake tin

250g dried figs, roughly chopped

Baking parchment

2 heaped tablespoons coconut oil

Blender

300g dark chocolate

(minimum 70 per cent cocoa)

Microplane® zester

6 ripe avocados

Stick blender

1 lime

High quality cocoa powder for dusting

Vegan and free from gluten and dairy, this delicious recipe is rich in flavour and is brought to you by chef Michael Vanheste of Greendale Teahouse.

Method:

1. Line the base and sides of your cake tin with baking parchment. In a blender, combine the hazelnuts, figs and coconut oil and blend into a coarse mixture, being careful not to over-blend into a paste. Press the nut mixture firmly into the base and up the sides of the tin, using the bottom of a straight-sided tumbler or jar to create a flat, even surface. Place in the fridge to chill.

2. Melt the dark chocolate gently using a bain-marie (a heatproof bowl over a pot of barely simmering water). Scoop out the flesh of the avocados into a separate bowl. Add the zest of the lime and blend with a splash of lime juice using a stick blender until smooth. Add extra lime juice to taste if desired. Fold the melted chocolate into the avocado purée, stirring gently until well combined.

3. Spoon the chocolate-avocado mixture over the chilled nut base in the tin, smoothing it out evenly. Return the tart to the fridge to chill for at least half an hour, ideally an hour.

4. Just before serving, remove the tart from the fridge. Release the springform, carefully removing the tin sides, base and baking paper. Place on a serving platter, dust lightly with cocoa powder, then slice into portions and enjoy this guilt-free treat! n greendaleteahouse.co.uk

WINE PAIRING

ESSENSIA

ORANGE MUSCAT

ANDREW QUADY

Julian Kaye of the Wright Wine Company, says:

“I think the perfect match would be from Andrew Quady, firework manufacturer turned dessert wine producer.

“Essensia is made with rare Orange Muscat grapes and is full of apricot, orange and pear flavours with a balancing acidity and a long, lingering finish. It should match wonderfully with Michael’s healthy tart!”

Available from the Wright Wine Company £15 per half bottle wineandwhisky.co.uk

WINTER DEALS

DINNER, BED & BREAKFAST £99 (Choose from our 2 course menu) from Wednesday 15th January to Friday 28th March (excluding Friday 14th February) Wednesdays to Saturday in January and February, Wednesday to Friday in March. Direct bookings only via phone or email.

VALENTINES DAY £49 - 3 COURSES PLUS GLASS OF FIZZ

Full a la carte menu also available 12 – 2pm and 6 – 8:30pm

A LA CARTE AND PUB GRUB MENUS AVAILABLE

Lunch and tea time 2 and 3 course offers are back from Wednesday 15th January Wednesday to Friday 12 – 2pm and 6 – 7pm, Saturdays 12 – 2pm CLOSED MONDAY & TUESDAY

FOOD SERVING HOURS: Wednesday to Saturday 12 noon to 2pm and 6pm to 8:30pm Sunday – 12 noon to 6pm WE REOPEN ON WEDNESDAY 15TH JANUARY 2025

Booking recommended 01200 443339

DIVINE DINING

With its fabulous design and delectable cuisine Bertram’s offers the perfect dining experience. Kate Hyde finds out more

Bertram’s newly renovated restaurant within Crow Wood’s Resort in Burnley is an upscale, adult-only, dining destination known for its sophisticated atmosphere, stylish décor and a choice of menus that blend traditional flavours with contemporary flair. Nestled at the end of Crow Wood’s winding lane, Bertram’s offers patrons a luxurious experience that challenges fine dining. It’s a complete ambience that includes stunning views, an opulent interior and an attentive service team that ensures every detail is perfected.

The restaurant’s new design is one of its standout features, drawing on modern and chic elements that provide an inviting yet opulent feel. Large floor-to-ceiling windows frame the surrounding countryside, allowing guests to take in the tranquil vistas of the

Lancashire landscape. Inside, the decor is elegant with plush furnishings, ambient lighting and a layout that balances intimacy and openness – creating an atmosphere perfect for a romantic meal for two or larger party gatherings.

NOT ONLY DID EVERYTHING TASTE DIVINE, IT WAS PRESENTED BEAUTIFULLY WITH EACH DISH LOOKING LIKE A WORK OF ART UPON ARRIVAL

Bertram’s has always had a fantastic reputation and I now understand why. Rarely (if at all) have I been to a restaurant where I have wanted to try EVERYTHING on the menu! I am literally salivating, remembering the taste sensations. There

are two menus available in the evening at Bertram’s, The Rosette Experience and the Dinner Menu. Both are diverse and designed to appeal to various tastes, from classic British fare to dishes with an international twist. To ensure we made the most of our dining experience, we ordered from both menus. My dining companion started with the crispy oxtail with pumpkin textures, braised salsify and veal jus, which was unctuous with a rich sticky sauce, whereas I went with the tempura Korean BBQ King prawns. It was fresh, vibrant and zingy with a subtle heat that set the tastebuds alight – it was quite simply THE best prawn dish I have ever tried and I would hot foot it back over there for that dish alone. The mains of belly pork with scallops and the

rump lamb were excellent, with a choice of generously portioned sides that perfectly accompanied the main meals. We somehow found room for dessert and what a way to end the meal, we opted for apple crumble souffle, a fantastically elevated classic and Baileys and coffee – a honeycomb chocolate brownie, Valrhona mousse, Baileys cream and espresso ice cream. Each element as a standalone piece tasted incredible, but combined was where the magic happened, the combination of textures and temperatures was like a party in the mouth, one that we would be more than happy to repeat time and time again. Not only did everything taste divine, it was presented beautifully with each dish looking like a work of art upon arrival.

A well-curated wine list accompanies the menu, offering selections from around the world that are chosen to complement the dishes and their knowledgeable team is always on hand with any recommendations. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a refined meal in a beautiful location, Bertram’s offers a complete experience that is likely to impress even the most discerning diners. n

bertramsrestaurant.com

THE FULL BULL EXPERIENCE…

As we head into the New Year Tedd Walmsley chats to Becky Govier about the success of the Black Bull and the new boutique accommodation

Icaught up, probably for the last time in 2024 with Becky Govier, one of the most hard-working women in the hospitality industry I have ever met.

Our plan was to sit down and look at the first quarter of 2025 and the host of innovations planned across the year. It was always going to be a brief conversation as alongside chatting to me, Becky was simultaneously sorting out Christmas decorations, lighting a fire and answering the phone with bookings for the festivities.

Just an average day for Becky and one of the reasons the Black Bull is now one of the true cornerstones of the Ribble Valley hospitality scene.

I was keen to understand the progress on Keepers Cottage, which she tells me, should be open for next summer – building work has progressed on the seven-bedroomed boutique B & B with additional suites in the grounds.

This will be a welcome addition to the current accommodation offering in the Ribble Valley and will give visitors from outside the area a firsthand opportunity to experience a full ‘Bull’ culinary extravaganza.

THE EDISFORD’S WEEKEND BREAKFAST GOES FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH. I CAN’T THINK OF ANYTHING BETTER THAN A ‘FULL ENGLISH’ BEFORE A BIG SPORTS EVENT

In addition to the boutique hotel, Becky has set her sights on making the Bull a hub for bespoke celebration events. From intimate weddings to memorable milestone birthdays, the venue caters for every conceivable occasion. Events are bespoke, tailored to individual clients’ requirements ensuring that every detail, from the menu to the décor, reflects their unique style. The Bull has become more popular than ever for this type of private event with the team focused on creating an unforgettable experience. Be sure to book well in advance for your unique celebration and particularly if you want to take advantage of the new accommodation at Keepers Cottage.

The Bull is one of the few venues in the Ribble Valley that remains open seven days a

week – a decision not taken lightly given the pounding the whole of the hospitality sector was given in the last budget. I urge you to support her by making it the ‘go to’ at the beginning of the week whilst never ignoring the stunning food and drink each evening, the stellar service and their special Sunday lunch.

Becky and her husband Jamie have a second venue of course, just down the road in Clitheroe – the Edisford. Serving unashamedly

BUILDING WORK HAS PROGRESSED ON THE BLACK BULL’S SEVEN-BEDROOM BOUTIQUE B & B

‘pub classics’ in a warm and convivial atmosphere, this is another perfect venue for a cold winter’s night or after working up an appetite on a midweek walk in the stunning Ribble Valley. The weekend breakfast goes from strength to strength, which seems to be supported by an enthusiastic group of regulars. I can’t think of anything better than a ‘full English’ before a big sports event and it’s our plan to meet up pre-football in the very near future.

By the time you read this article the results

from the recent BBC programme, MasterChef: The Professionals will be known. As we went to press it was finals week and we all have our fingers and toes crossed for the outcome to be positive. Becky is understandably proud of Dan Merriman and his achievements in the show – what a talent in our midst!

Let’s show our support by making 2025 a great year for Becky and her team. n

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

EXCITING TIMES AHEAD

perfectly!” Erin says.

“It’s been an incredible time since we opened last year and we really do want to thank all the wonderful customers who have come along and enjoyed CDJ Riverside and given us such fabulous reviews,” says Project Manager Erin Kelly.

Originally the much loved Swan pub, CDJ Riverside was the idea of Red Rose Drylining business owners Mark Holden and Michael Anderson, who didn’t want the pub to fall into disrepair: “Mark and Michael were really passionate about reviving the pub and after inviting talented chef Dan Jolley to join them, the restaurant is fast becoming a favourite place to dine and socialise in Lower Darwen – with lots of Ribble Valley residents making the trip over and fast becoming regular customers.”

After an exciting first six months, the team at CDJ Riverside are looking forward to continued success in 2025 with lots to look forward to, writes Gail Bailey SPECIAL NEW YEAR OFFER!

The first festive season at the restaurant has been a busy and memorable one: “We have had lots of Christmas parties and it’s been wonderful to have so many people celebrating with us. Our tasting menus have been hugely popular and a special Northern Soul New Year’s Eve party rounded our first year off

As we arrive in 2025 there is still a fabulous winter wonderland feel at CDJ Riverside with the outdoor area festooned with lights, candles and lots of lovely blankets: “It’s reminiscent of après ski,” says Erin. “The perfect place to feel cosy and enjoy a drink and fine food with friends.”

Dan’s expertise in the kitchen is legendary and he has introduced new dishes: “We are very lucky to have Dan’s experience,” says Erin. “He has a wealth of experience gained in some of the finest Michelin-starred restaurants at home and in Europe.”

CDJ Riverside will be closed from 3rd – 16th January but there is a special offer of 20% discount on food on re-opening until 13th February. Please quote RVL20 at the point of booking to redeem your voucher.

Some of the new dishes include Gressingham duck leg served with roast beetroot, fennel and hazelnut pesto, lamb cutlets with sesame and miso hispi cabbage and with a plant-based option of wild mushroom and truffle focaccia served with truffle, walnut and chervil.

“We have had very popular Wellington Wednesdays,” adds Erin. “Plus a flavoursome salmon Wellington with caper and chives and a beurre blanc sauce has been added to the menu – it’s delicious!”

DAN HAS A WEALTH OF EXPERIENCE GAINED IN SOME OF THE FINEST MICHELIN-STARRED RESTAURANTS AT HOME AND IN EUROPE

The restaurant will be closed between the 3rd and 16th January for the team to enjoy some rest and relaxation but there is a special offer of 20 per cent discount for food on re-opening which runs until 13th February. Please quote RVL20 at the point of booking to redeem your voucher.

One recent customer review sums up CDJ Riverside perfectly: “Absolute gem of a place! Beautifully decorated and incredible food. Every mouthful of food was divine with amazing combinations all bursting with beautiful flavours.” n

CDJ Riverside

Lower Darwen, Darwen BB3 0PQ 01254 801691

info@cdj-riverside.co.uk cdj-riverside.co.uk

YOUR FAVOURITE

2025 DINING DESTINATION

Live Ribble Valley catches up with Freemasons’ head chef Matt Smith after a busy Christmas period, before entering the coming New Year

Iwas keen to see what 2025 had in store for the wonderful Freemasons that we are so lucky to have within the Ribble valley. Head chef Matt Smith ran me step by step through the New Year offerings, which will see the Freemasons re-open its doors for dinner on the 8th January after a well-deserved break for both front of house and kitchen teams.

Starting January through to March, the Freemasons’ set menu for both lunch and dinner will create options for every appetite and budget.

FOR THOSE WANTING TO SAMPLE THE ESSENCE OF MATT’S CULINARY TEAM’S FLAIR, THE ‘TASTE OF FREEMASONS’ TASTING MENU IS A MUST

The ever-popular early supper and lunch menus, priced generously at £37.50, will have some delightful additions and for couples and groups wanting to sample the essence of Matt’s culinary team’s flair, the ‘Taste of Freemasons’ tasting menu priced at £85 per person, is a must.

The Freemasons’ Sunday lunch, that incredible British institution, priced at £47 per person, remains incredibly popular with early booking essential to secure your Sunday treat!

The full programme of events and latest news will be regularly updated on the Freemasons at Wiswell website and through social media.

When it comes to private dining, there’s no better place than the Freemasons. The Chef’s Table, which seats up to 12 people, allows diners to eat and drink in full view of the busy open kitchen. Bespoke dining packages start at £50 per head, tailored to your wishes.

The kitchen bench, which seats up to four people, is another option for a front-row seat dining experience.

Upstairs there’s the Shoot Room, the Portrait Room and the Gun Room, which all

cater for different private party numbers, tailored to your needs.

Andrew Thompson, along with his front of house team, will be there to welcome you warmly, as always, which is very much

what the Freemasons is all about – a total dining experience.

If you’re looking to stay over with us in one of our beautiful rooms, please visit the website for our New Year room packages. From everyone at the Freemasons, we look forward to seeing you again in the New Year. n

readership seeking connection and understanding and explores the contrast between the comfort of home and the sterile hospital environment, from an innocent swim to an induced coma. Pete shares a joyous tale of love and resilience, emphasising the power of sheer grit and determination in defying the odds.

In an era shaped by the aftermath of the pandemic this sometimes dark memoir provides insight into the human experience, bridging the gap between curiosity and understanding amidst the chaos of uncertainty and upheaval.

HODGE CRAFTS COMPELLING NARRATIVES AND CHERISHES MOMENTS WITH FAMILY, FRIENDS, MUSIC, NATURE AND HIS BELOVED BLACKBURN ROVERS

Twice a survivor – previous to his pandemic experience, Pete had a leg amputated due to bone cancer – he is now embracing life as a writer, recounting his harrowing ICU experience during the peak of the epidemic. Originally a children’s book creator, he draws inspiration from personal challenges. Infusing his writing with life’s lessons and joy, he crafts compelling narratives and cherishes moments with family, friends, music, nature and his beloved Blackburn Rovers.

Pete explains: “The incident that kickstarted the writing of this book came during a chance meeting with one of my heroes, Steve Coogan. I was lucky enough to have a long conversation with him covering all sorts of topics – music, lockdown and the Lake District. It wasn’t until we started talking about my recent illness that Coogan raised the idea of me writing about

DEFYING THE ODDS…

In a sometimes dark account of his near-fatal illness, local author Pete Mackenzie Hodge’s new book Delirium Diaries is also a joyous tale of love and survival

Delirium Diaries is a gripping medical memoir from Lancashire author Pete Mackenzie Hodge, who chronicles his unlikely survival in the intensive care unit (ICU) during a near-fatal illness, followed by the drama and sometimes comic absurdity of deep psychosis. This recently-released book is a deeply

therapeutic account from Pete while suffering from psychosis during the pandemic and is enriched with insights from family, friends and health practitioners.

The memoir offers universal appeal and resonates with those who’ve faced similar traumas.

Published by the Book Guild, Delirium Diaries offer hope for a post-pandemic

what I had recently gone through.”

Pete met Coogan by chance at a restaurant in the Lake District where he and his wife Nikki were dining out for their first meal since he fell ill.

He recalls: “We were in the Lakes eating our meal outside in our coats and hats – not allowed to be mixing indoors.”

Midway through the meal his wife noticed that Steve Coogan was also dining there. Dubious, he glanced over and sure enough there he was – one of his longtime heroes. Unbeknown to Pete his wife had spoken briefly to Coogan who came over to their table. In his book Pete recalls: “Mr Steve Coogan.

A national treasure. ‘I believe you’ve not been very well, mate,’ utters Steve. ‘Alright, Steve!’ is all I could muster in that moment. Suddenly, we are engaged in conversation, covering everything from coma delirium to the recent tragic passing of Steve’s nephew, the pandemic, music and his current writing, which brings me onto why I am here, writing this and introducing my book. ‘You should write about your experience,’ encourages Steve. ‘Just sit down and type and see where it takes you.’

MR STEVE COOGAN. A NATIONAL TREASURE.

‘I BELIEVE YOU’VE NOT BEEN VERY WELL MATE,’ HE SAYS

When Pete and Nikki were about to leave the restaurant later, Pete says: “The waiter approached our table saying, ‘I want to inform you that Mr Coogan has already settled your bill.’ Nik and I didn’t have any words left in us.”

He adds: “I couldn’t believe it. You could almost feel the magic. I will write about my experience. I will write to heal myself. I will write in the hope that others might relate to it.”

So, Pete did exactly that, initially writing the book as a therapeutic exercise. “Being in and coming out of a coma can be a very traumatic event. I found writing to be a helpful aid to my recovery as I attempted to re-piece the jigsaw pieces of my brain and mind, to heal myself and try to separate the reality and fiction of the world around me to the hallucinogenic, vivid dreams I experienced during my illness.

“Finally, part of the idea I had for writing about my illness was the hope that it would resonate with people who had similar experiences during the pandemic.” n

Delirium Diaries –

can be purchased from: bookguild.co.uk

£8.99

Photography: Fred Duval / Shutterstock.com

GOOD READ

Lauren Molyneux reviews a debut novel that is heartbreaking yet hopeful and turning the final page, declares it a triumph

THE BERRY PICKERS

Amanda Peters

‘Every one of us alive today comes from something bad done to the family that came before us.’

Norma has always felt as though she doesn’t quite fit in – her brown skin and black hair in stark contrast to the pale faces of her parents, who keep her locked indoors, afraid she’ll get snatched away if she ventures even as far as the front gate. Haunted by dreams of a woman who shares the same dark complexion and deep brown eyes, even as a little girl, she can’t help but feel as though she’s living someone else’s life. But talk of her dreams and the differences between her and her parents gives her mother a headache, so she learns from an early age not to mention them and not to ask questions.

In a town nearby, a family is haunted by the disappearance of the youngest child in their clan – a quiet, sensitive little girl named Ruthie. After she vanished in the blink of an eye one day in the blueberry fields – a brief moment without the watchful eye of her brother, Joe, most of the siblings believe the forest to have claimed her and search every year for whatever might be left. But Joe and his mother never lose hope that she’s still alive somewhere.

From recollections of first experiences, summers spent picking berries and growing up under the stars, to honest accounts of a dying man filled with regret, we learn gradually of the trauma that clings to Joe and his family and has done since the day Ruthie went missing. Caught between a certain sense of nostalgia and an acknowledgement of the scars the family’s past has caused, The Berry Pickers is a powerful story about shared and inherited trauma and the damage that can reverberate throughout generations.

In equal parts heartbreaking and hopeful – but most of all, unflinchingly human – Amanda Peters’ debut novel is nothing shy of a triumph. Every moment of clarity, muddiness, anger, hope, loss, betrayal, relief, despair, grief – every emotion explored and memory revisited, feels authentic. Narrated by two voices connected despite their separation, it explores the strong bonds of those who share the same blood, the scars that can form but somehow be forgotten and the stubborn fingerprints grief will leave, pushing people down extraordinary, terrifying and entirely unexpected paths. n

LONGRIDGE GALLERY UNVEILS NEW ART FOR THE NEW YEAR

Joe Gallindo returns with ‘Regal’ his latest studio release. This striking duo of artworks features two powerful wildcats, a lion and a tiger, captured in their fierce, majestic essence. With their intense, piercing gazes and Joe’s signature abstract, expressive style, these pieces evoke a sense of depth and raw energy.

The gallery is excited to introduce artist Leander to the Ribble Valley. ‘Beach Life’ is from his latest series drawing inspiration from the vibrant illustrative style of the 1950s, infused with the laid-back vibes of sun-drenched California living.

This collection has been created by combining a muted colour palette with a silkscreen print technique which helps to evoke a sense of nostalgia transporting the viewers to a bygone era. Each piece is finished with a liquid glass coating adding a touch of sophistication and enhancing its timeless allure.

Kimberley Harris is back with her much-anticipated new studio edition collection. The stunning hand-embellished ‘Everlasting Love’ transports you to a tranquil world where wildflowers sway gently in the breeze beneath serene, open skies. Kimberley’s work captures the peaceful essence of nature, offering a moment of calm and beauty.

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

‘LEO’ JOE GALLINDO ‘SASHA’ JOE GALLINDO ‘BEACH LIFE’ LEANDER

‘EVERLASTING LOVE’ KIMBERLEY HARRIS

Thornley, Clitheroe

Asking Price £615,000

Chipping, Preston

Offers in the Region of £315,000

A farmhouse with incredible views that sits in a quiet yet accessible location in a small hamlet of houses just outside Chaigley.

This substantial four-bedroom, stone-built farmhouse oozes potential. Offering spacious accommodation which has been upgraded by the current owners it still offers the possibility of further improvement and extension if desired and subject to planning consent.

A three-bedroom, mid-mews property that has been beautifully converted and makes a perfect home for young families, those wishing to downsize or even as a holiday home.

Located in the popular village of Chipping in a quiet cul-de-sac, the property is fitted with green energy heating, has well-maintained gardens, a single garage and plenty of off-street parking.

Grimsargh, Preston

Offers Over £1,100,000

Mellor, Blackburn

Offers Over £699,950

A gorgeous, architecturally-designed home, this stunning property is one in a cluster of three properties on an exclusive, gated development on the fringes of Grimsargh village.

Making for a superb family home, it is super contemporary — a highly attractive property which blends the best of modern glazing and design, whilst bringing in a traditional feel with the attractive stonework. The house has five bedrooms and five ensuites and a fabulous open-plan reception space downstairs.

Looking for a character property? The interior of this family home will not disappoint! Located in the heart of Mellor village, this impressive house is steeped in period features.

Extending to over 3,800 sq ft, it includes grand entrance hall, impressive lounge, a snug and dining kitchen opening to orangery. There are four bedrooms including a grand principal bedroom, with two bathrooms. A must-see!

JUSTIFICATION

Every decision needs to be justified through a thorough design process that is derived through understanding the site and the client. Being aware of key issues allows you to prepare solutions to overcome them.

INFORMATION

A planning officer once told me that they guarantee everything they would need to know about a ZMA project, will be in our supporting statements. Knowledge gaps in an application will raise questions and people will make (potentially wrong) presumptions. Leaving information out is not worth getting a refusal for!

SECRETS TO PLANNING SUCCESS

Zara Moon, RIBA Chartered Architect and Planning Consultant at Zara Moon Architects discusses the key factors to ensuring your planning application has the best possible chance of success

ZMA has maintained a 96 per cent planning success rate since setting up in practice in 2017, with over 200 projects.

Specialising in sensitive sites, 90 per cent of their projects are on the most difficult sites across Lancashire, Cheshire and Greater Manchester (Green Belt, Open Countryside, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings).

“When the same team leads the design and planning process, it allows the project to have an integrated design and planning strategy from

day one. Client’s choose to work with us as they want a bespoke design, but they typically have a tricky site. This is where the skills of both an architect and planning consultant are required to think outside the box in order to achieve approval,” explains Zara.

ZMA projects are designed based on the site and the client. Site research is completed which defines the site limits and what can be achieved. A planning strategy is then devised to achieve the client’s end goal.

Based on achieving planning approval in over 20 different local authorities, the following five factors are the key to ensuring the best chance of success:

THE DESIGN

The right design for the site is paramount. The power of design is that it can design-out problems and even policy in some cases. Design can be used as a tool to remove issues and create the spaces a client requires – it is literally the key to everything. If the design doesn’t work – the officer will not support the application.

COMMUNICATION

Managing and monitoring an application and how you communicate with the planning officer is key to achieving their support. Fast response times are paramount, being accessible to speak to an officer will allow the process to run smoothly, avoiding delays and allowing an open dialogue ensures they know you are open to working with them.

COMPROMISE

Planning officers literally hold the key to your dreams. They may express concerns which they need addressing or they won’t support the scheme. Often these can be addressed with minor tweaks without impacting the client’s ambitions. If the suggestions potentially compromise the application, more justification is provided to explain the reasoning or demonstrate the quality of the scheme. n

If you have a site or building requiring an integrated design and planning solution, get in touch with your site address and what you want to achieve and we will take it from there.

ZMA

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

INSPIRED SIXTH FORM