Live the Dales Issue 03 Autumn 2024 by Live_Magazines

ON TOP OF THE WORLD WEDDINGS IN BRITAIN’S HIGHEST PUB

RACE ACROSS THE WORLD YORKSHIRE’S BETTY AND JAMES

SOMETHING TO CELEBRATE 70TH ANNIVERSARY FOR NATIONAL PARK

HERRIOT TRAIL FOLLOWING WORLD’S FAVOURITE VET

from day to night...

Whether preparing a hearty breakfast or hosting dinner parties late into the night, a well-thought-out kitchen should cater for your day and adapt to your evening.

Let’s transform yours into a versatile space at the heart of your home.

PEOPLE’S CHARTER FOR THE OPEN AIR

The Yorkshire Dales National Park is celebrating its 70th anniversary. We look back at the history of the park and the man who was pivotal to its creation.

Brother and sister James and Betty Mukherjee talk about their lives and their experiences taking part in the hit TV series.

60 SHOTGUN WITH HERRIOT

Writer Alan Veale drives through Wensleydale and Swaledale to find the “paradise” described in James Herriot’s Yorkshire.

TYING THE KNOT AT BRITAIN’S HIGHEST PUB

The highest pub in Britain is no stranger to setting records, we look back at the history of the iconic inn.

96 DUSSELDORF TO THE DALES: A CULINARY ODYSSEY

Top chef and Great British Menu contestant Nina Matsunaga and her husband James Ratcliffe talk to Kate Bowyer.

LIVE MAGAZINES

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Publisher: Tedd Walmsley

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Photography: Roger Moore, Kirsten Platt and Gemma Suckley

Editorial Contributors: Paul Agnew, Lucy Bale, Kate Bowyer, Mark Dixon, Rebecca Hay, Ben Hopkins, Matt Rayson, Joe Varley, Andrew Vaux, Alan Veale, Tedd Walmsley and Jan Woolley

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LIVE THE DALES magazine is hand delivered to selected households and businesses in: Addingham, Airton, Arncliffe, Askrigg, Askwith, Austwick, Aysgarth, Bainbridge, Beckwithshaw, Ben Rhydding, Birstwith, Bishop Thornton, Bradley, Buckden, Burley-in-wharfedale, Burley Woodhead, Burn Bridge, Burnsall, Burnt Yates, Carleton, Carlton, Carperby, Casterton, Clapham, Conistone, Copt Huick, Cowan Bridge, Dacre, Dacre Banks, Darley, Dent, Draughton, East Witton, Eastby , Embsay, Fearby, Galphay, Gargrave, Glasshouses, Grantley, Grassington, Grewelthorpe, Hampsthwaite, Harmby, Harrogate, Hawes, Hawkswick, Hellifield, High Grantley, Horton in Ribblesdale, Hutton Conyers, Ilkley, Ingleton, Kettlewell, Killinghall, Kirkby Lonsdale, Kirkby Malham, Kirkby Malzeard, Langcliffe, Leyburn, Lofthouse, Long Preston, Low Bradley, Malham, Markington, Masham, Mickley, Middleham, Middleton, Newbiggin, North Lees, North Stainley, Oldfield, Pannal, Pateley Bridge, Ramsgill, Ripley, Ripon, Sawley, Settle, Shaw Mills, Skipton, South Stainley, Stainforth, Starbotton, Studley Roger, Summerbridge, Thoralby, Wensley, West Burton, West Tanfield, West Witton, Winksley, Wormald Green.

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Live Editor

Love is in the air for the third edition of Live The Dales - with weddings and couples coming under the spotlight as we head into autumn.

Included in this edition we’ve got advice on stag dos and honeymoons as well as tips to ease pre-wedding stress.

These days we’re all used to the idea that people can get married wherever they like so it’s strange to remember that ceremonies used to be restricted to churches and register offices. As we approach the 30th anniversary of the first wedding in a UK pub we look back at the groundbreaking ceremony at the Tan Hill Inn, which is also Britain’s highest pub. That first wedding was a simple affair - the happy couple plighted their troth over a wooden ale barrel and the bride was toasted with pints of Theakston Old Peculier.

November marks the 70th anniversary of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. We remember the ‘father of UK national parks’, Ilkley-born John Dower, who was instrumental in bringing about the designation of national parks in England and Wales. He was helped in his work by his wife Pauline, a passionate conservationist who was recognised as an expert in her own right.

The Yorkshire Dales were brought to the attention of a global audience thanks to the work of ‘the world’s favourite vet’ James Herriot - or Alf Wight as he was in real life. Alf met and married his wife Joan in North Yorkshire and had a deep love for the Dales. We follow in the footsteps of the vet and bestselling author as we take a ride on a trail through Wensleydale and Swaledale.

The best Dales produce is served with an international twist by top chef Nina Matsunaga. Born in Germany to Japanese parents she has joined forces with husband James Ratcliffe to run the Black Bull in Sedbergh. The couple talk to us about their culinary journey together and their deep love for the outdoors.

There’s sometimes not much love lost between brothers and sisters - but Betty and James Mukherjee overturned the sibling rivalry stereotype and won the hearts of the nation when they competed in Race Across the World. They talk to us about their lives and their experiences on the hit TV show.

Whether you’re getting married or not there’s plenty to read in our autumn magazine - so sit back and enjoy!

Annette McIntyre Editor

PEOPLE’S CHARTER FOR THE OPEN AIR

As the Yorkshire Dales National Park celebrates its 70th anniversary Annette McIntyre looks back at its history and the man who was pivotal to its creation

Known as the ‘father of UK national parks’ John Dower has left an inspiring legacy. The Ilkley-born civil servant and architect played a pivotal role in the creation of national parks in England and Wales.

And – as the Yorkshire Dales National Park celebrates its 70th anniversary – his crucial work will be remembered with the unveiling of a blue plaque at Malham Youth Hostel, a building which he designed. The ceremony will take place on 18th November, two days after the park’s landmark anniversary.

Today the national park attracts millions of visitors each year – coming to the area to enjoy its stunning scenery and the wealth of opportunities for recreation and relaxation.

The fact that they are able to do this is in large part down to the vision and determination of campaigners and conservationists – including Dower’s wife Pauline – who worked for years to realise their dream.

SOCIAL

REFORMERS ALSO FELT THAT IT SHOULD BE THE RIGHT OF ALL TO ENJOY THE CLEAN AIR AND SPIRITUAL REFRESHMENT THE COUNTRYSIDE OFFERED

The world’s first national park, Yellowstone, dates back to 1872, and was established because the US government wanted to protect areas of wilderness and allow everyone to

enjoy them. But it would be many decades before the UK followed suit.

The 70th anniversary edition of the Yorkshire Dales National Park magazine, The Visitor, describes the history behind the movement on this side of the pond.

“Although Britain at that time had no such wild areas – our moors and mountains were nearly all farmed or managed in some way – there were influential individuals who recognised that increased industrialisation was a threat to the beauty of our more remote countryside,” it says.

“Social reformers also felt that it should be the right of all to enjoy the clean air and spiritual refreshment the countryside offered.

“An outdoor movement, including the National Trust, Ramblers Association and Youth Hostels Association, began to find its voice. These were some of the bodies that established the Standing Committee on National Parks in 1936 to press Westminster for more formal protection.”

The committee’s secretary was John Dower. From his cottage at Kirkby Malham he wrote the report in 1944 that led to the creation of national parks in England and Wales.

NATIONAL PARKS ARE NOT FOR ANY PRIVILEGED OR OTHERWISE RESTRICTED SECTION OF THE POPULATION, BUT FOR ALL WHO COME TO REFRESH THEIR MINDS AND SPIRIT

The Visitor adds: “Dower was often joined by fellow Quaker and visionary Arthur Raistrick, who would walk over from his home in Linton to discuss issues such as nature protection and public rights of way which they both hoped would be covered by legislation.”

“The third hero of the National Park movement was Tom Stephenson, a journalist from Burnley in Lancashire, who campaigned for access to the countryside and long distance footpaths such as the Pennine Way.”

“Tom Stephenson joined Sir Arthur Hobhouse’s Committee on National Parks which reported in 1947, endorsing all of Dower’s key recommendations. Most of

these were included in the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act of 1949 –leading to the creation of 15 national parks over the following six decades.”

The act was described by minister of town and country planning Lewis Silkin as “a people’s charter for the open air”.

John Dower was born in Ilkley in 1900. He studied at Cambridge and became an expert in planning. In 1929 he married Pauline Trevelyan whose father, Sir Charles, had been involved in one of the early access to mountains bills as a young MP. Her uncle, George Macaulay Trevelyan, was president of the Youth Hostels Association.

John became a campaigner for national parks – writing and speaking on the issue throughout the 1930s. He designed Malham Youth Hostel - which was later dedicated to his memory – as well as youth hostels at Eskdale in Cumbria and Bellingham in Northumberland.

During the Second World War he was a Royal Engineer, but was invalided out after contracting tuberculosis. He went on to join the civil service and in 1942 was asked to prepare a report on National Parks in England and Wales.

John believed passionately that the

countryside should be available for everyone to enjoy.

“National parks are not for any privileged or otherwise restricted section of the population, but for all who come to refresh their minds and spirit, and exercise their bodies in a peaceful setting of natural beauty,” he wrote.

He defined a national park as: “An extensive area of beautiful and relatively wild country in which, for the nation’s benefit and by appropriate national decision and action, (a) the characteristic landscape beauty is strictly preserved, (b) access and facilities for public open-air enjoyment are amply provided, (c) wild-life and buildings and places of architectural and historical interest are suitably protected, while (d) established farming use is effectively maintained.”

As he worked on his report his poor health left him too weak to drive – but Pauline played

a crucial role in his work by driving him around the country to visit potential sites.

Although he paved the way for the creation of national parks he sadly never saw his dream come to fruition. He died of tuberculosis in 1947 – two years before the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act was passed. His ashes were scattered on Ilkley Moor.

IN 2021 AN IMPRESSIVE 3.9 MILLION PEOPLE VISITED THE YORKSHIRE DALES NATIONAL PARK

Pauline, who was a passionate conservationist and was recognised as an expert in her own right, joined the National Parks Commission, which was established in 1949. She served for 16 years as a member and went on to become deputy chairwoman. She played a central role in the work which

led to the designation of the Peak District National Park in 1951 – the first in England and Wales. In 1952 the National Parks Commission visited the Yorkshire Dales. The deputation included Pauline and also Tom Stephenson. Two years later the area gained national park status.

Today visitors flock to the Dales. In 2021 an impressive 3.9 million people visited the Yorkshire Dales National Park, with £310 million generated locally through visitor and tourism business expenditure. This year the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority had a total headcount of 172 – the equivalent of 137 full time staff.

The authority has achieved many successes over the past 70 years – including the maintenance of the public rights of way network. It has also been successful in restoring the path network in the Three Peaks area, helping landscape conservation through the planning service, and assisting nature friendly farming by helping farmers to enter national agri-environment schemes. It has been involved in bringing about large scale peatland restoration, and has provided a welcome to visitors through its visitor centres, Dales Countryside Museum and various events throughout the year.

The biggest challenges it now faces include halting the decline of nature and enabling nature recovery, reducing greenhouse emissions and mitigating against the worst effects of climate change, sustaining local communities and services and getting more affordable housing.

To celebrate the landmark anniversary the authority is highlighting ‘70 Essentials’ that any resident or visitor should experience in the national park. These include iconic locations and walks, activities, and ways to connect with nature. n

yorkshiredales.org.uk /be-inspired/70-yorkshire-dales-essentials/

The Future of Cabinet Making

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

their craft and enjoy sharing their knowledge.”

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

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

SKIPTON | ILKLEY

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

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

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

ON TO A WINNER!

Award-winning Bannister Hall is coming up to a busy time in the season when root ball and bare root hedging and trees will soon be planted

For the second year in a row, Bannister Hall Landscaping Supplies & Plants Nurseries has won best stand in the over 36m 2 category at the Royal Lancashire Show.

Situated in a prime position directly in front of the main entrance, the Bannister Hall stand encompassed a detailed show

garden boasting a myriad of horticultural wonders from large specimen trees, beautiful perennials, delightful shrubs and elegant garden stoneware. Proving popular with visitors of all ages, this delightful show garden welcomed visitors with a winding journey along a stunning Indian sandstone block-paving pathway, leading from the show garden’s entrance beneath three Jasmine arches to arrive at a purpose-built Millboard decking area. With inbuilt seating and surrounded on all sides with colourfully fragrant planted beds, many visitors spent time relaxing and unwinding in a garden of solitude from the shows otherwise busy areas.

Indeed, this intricately stunning show garden was designed by no other than Alan Lovell, the Chairman and founder of Bannister Hall Landscaping Supplies, who 25 years prior had a unique idea to create a ‘one-stop’ landscaping supplies centre by combining a comprehensively stocked builder’s merchants with a large plant nursery boasting access to over 40,000 different plant species. Since its early beginnings, Bannister Hall Landscaping Supplies has grown to become the North West’s largest single-source supplier of landscaping materials and plants, offering both trade and retail customers a first-rate customer service, qualified horticultural expert advice, and the latest in

3D CGI garden design service to help create inspirational outdoor spaces.

Alan explains: “The project this year involved designing a multi-dimensional and inspirational show garden that incorporated a flavour of the vast array of landscaping materials, specimen trees, hedging plants and shrubs we offer at Bannister Hall. The installation of the show garden took six days and was undertaken by one of our recommended professional contractors Bedrock Landscapes, who graciously undertook the majority of the project build with fantastic results.”

Based in Higher Walton, Preston, Bannister Hall Landscaping Supplies specialises in the growing, sourcing and delivering of specimen trees and hedging plants, providing both retail and trade customers with a handy local alternative to the expensive prices found at garden centres.

Whilst Bannister Hall offers a wide variety of pot grown trees and hedging plants akin to the local garden centre, they also offer these in both root ball and bare root options, and the savings are rather significant.

Unlike pot-grown trees and hedging plants, root ball and bare root plants are grown naturally in a field and then lifted in a dormant phase at certain times of the year. This offers numerous benefits for the consumer and a highly cost-effective solution for planting a hedge or tree line, especially when covering a larger area. What’s more, Bannister Hall have their own fleet of specialised crane trucks that will deliver your hedges and trees of all sizes direct to site.

The season for root ball and bare root hedging plants and trees is now approaching, running from October to around March. Impressively, at Bannister Hall, your root ball and bare root hedging can even be pre-ordered throughout August and September with exceptional early-order discounts and with customers being assured of product availability in this high-demand period. Indeed, it is during the winter months, that trees and shrubs enter a dormant period, which makes it an ideal time to lift them from the ground and to move them to

a new area. Lifting and transporting trees in the winter gives the plants time to settle, after which, they are ready to wake up and sprout again in spring. Certainly, root ball refers to the bio-degradable hessian sack that encapsulates the ball of earth containing the root system of the plant when it has been lifted from the ground. When transported to its new location the plant and the sack containing its roots are planted as one. The process is quick and straight forward, and the success rates usually very high.

CUSTOMERS ARE ABLE TO CHOOSE THEIR TREES AND HEDGING IN A WIDE VARIETY OF SPECIES AND SIZES AT A GREATLY REDUCED COST FROM POT GROWN ALTERNATIVES

There are multiple benefits to planting hedging and trees in root balls, one of which is that they are already strong, healthy and mature plants with an established root system. This gives the plant a much better chance of survival whilst creating an ‘instant hedge’ at the size and species desired. This takes away the waiting for plants to develop and ‘knit’ into the desired density you require, and you literally have a fully grown hedge within a day of taking delivery.

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

and with a healthy root system. They arrive with the root exposed but are ready for planting and with time and patience you will have a thriving hedge that will transform your garden.

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

Bannister Hall

Potter Lane, Higher Walton Preston PR5 4EN 01772 877087

bannisterhall.com

Finance Now Available

Order now with nothing to pay for 12 months

KITCHENS | BEDROOMS | BOOT ROOMS PANTRIES | DRESSING ROOMS

Visit our mill. It’s much more than just a kitchen showroom. It’s full of stuff, full of ideas and inspiration. It’s our home six days a week.

Open Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm. Saturdays, 10am-3pm.

Unit 6 Eastburn Mills Main Road, Keighley, BD20 7SJ T: 01535 656297

E: mail@eastburn.co.uk

TIMELESS CRAFTSMANSHIP

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Amid the sound of wood-saws and focused

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

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

Mark’s parents, Janet and Paul Kent

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

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

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

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

Not all works are bound for the UK. Recently

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

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

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

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

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

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

royaloakfurniture.co.uk

ELEVATE YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE

Transform your garden into a sanctuary of relaxation and beauty with a beautiful water feature

Garden water features have surged in popularity, and for good reason. These captivating additions are more than just a pretty sight – they offer many benefits that can elevate your outdoor space into a tranquil sanctuary. From stress reduction and improved air quality to a haven for wildlife, water features can transform your garden. British Garden Centres have delved into the science behind their calming effects and can inspire you to find the perfect water feature for your dream garden.

REST AND RELAXATION

The gentle sound of flowing water is a wellknown stress reliever. Studies suggest that moving water releases negative ions, which can improve your mood and overall wellbeing. Listening to the gurgling water and observing its movement can lower your blood pressure and create a sense of calm, mimicking the therapeutic effects of nature. Browse the collections and find the perfect water feature

to create your peaceful oasis. Imagine unwinding after a long day with a cup of tea on your patio, listening to the soothing sounds of water and letting the stress melt away.

BREATH OF FRESH AIR

Water features can contribute to a healthier environment. Some studies suggest that negative ions from water features can help counteract the negative health impacts of air pollution, especially in urban areas. Trickling water can also act as a natural air purifier, reducing allergens, pollen and germs. Breathe easy knowing your water feature is contributing to a cleaner, healthier environment for you and your family.

OUTDOOR ELEGANCE

Most water features require minimal maintenance, simply plug them in and enjoy the soothing sounds and visuals. Many designs

are built with water recirculation in mind, making them even more convenient. This allows you to enjoy a relaxing water feature on your balcony, patio or even indoors, without the hassle of constant refilling. There is a wide variety of water features to suit any style and space, from self-contained tabletop fountains perfect for a small balcony to cascading wall features that create a dramatic focal point in a larger garden.

WILDLIFE HAVEN

A water source in your garden is a magnet for wildlife. Birds, frogs and insects will be drawn to the water feature, finding hydration and sustenance. In the summer months, birds will enjoy using the water for bathing and drinking, while insects can benefit from the shallow water areas. Water features not only create a tranquil space for you to relax, but also encourage a healthy ecosystem and biodiversity in your garden. n

britishgardencentres.com

British Garden Centres

@BritishGardenCentres

@BGCentres

CLEARING OUT EMOTIONAL STRESS

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

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

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

As a child, Rachel loved nothing more

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

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

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

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

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

“Most hoarders are trauma related and

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GRASSINGTON THE YORKSHIRE DALES

ROYALOAKFURNITURE CO UK 01756 753378

Creativity knows no bounds…

Artist Nick Dittrich creates original artworks using a variety of mediums (acrylic, charcoal, graphite, pastel and chalk) or anything else –object trouvé, bottle tops, purchase receipts and micro shredded banknotes.

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

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

‘Pieces of my heart’ – 40x40cm Box Canvas

‘Fragments of memory’ – 40x40cm Box Canvas

D ovetail

Genuinely bespoke kitchens and fine furniture

Bespoke handcrafted

Bespoke handcrafted kitchens and fine furniture

In the gardening world the season of autumn has to be one of the most valuable times.

It’s the perfect time of year for reflection, and with spring and summer behind us, it’s also a great season to get ahead – and when I say ‘get ahead’ I’m referring to preparing for next year! Back in the day, autumn was the number one planting season. For many, this year felt like spring was late and, by the time we got to summer, it felt like it never really happened! One thing being in the gardening game has always taught me is that there are rarely two years alike – so let’s get ready for a glorious 2025!

Spring bulbs always kick off the colour in the garden throughout February to June. They’re so easy to plant and you get such

THE ABUNDANCE OF AUTUMN

Autumn is a great time to work in the garden – as well as a wonderful season to enjoy the beautiful colours on display. John Foley, of Holden Clough Nurseries, gives some advice on how to make the most of this time of year

great value for money buying them as bulbs versus growing plants in the spring. There’s also an array of flowering plants which naturally come into their prime at this time of year, a host of different perennials including Kaffir Lilies, Asters and Heleniums to name a few. Another area of interest comes from the autumn colour appearing in the foliage. Once the trees begin to turn, berries begin to appear and some plants even have interesting-coloured stems which start to transform, like the Dogwoods.

EVERGREENS ARE THE PERFECT HOME FOR ANY NESTING BIRDS OR OVERWINTERING ANIMALS LIKE HEDGEHOGS

calories, making for a cheaper workout than a gym membership!

Incorporating evergreens into the garden also has its place. They’re the perfect home for any nesting birds or overwintering animals like hedgehogs, which are always worth encouraging as they will help you fend off mother nature’s slugs and snails. A pond to house some frogs will also help with the balance of nature in your garden.

The general understanding of the gardening world has become somewhat diluted over the last few decades, and autumn planting is often discounted as many people worry that the winter cold will kill their bulbs and they will simply disappear. But that’s not true in the world of hardy plants! Planting in warmer autumn soil gives them the perfect chance to get their roots down and established, giving opportunity for bigger, stronger plants in the spring. It’s also a great chance to pick up the fork and burn off a few

So, it’s the perfect time to be actively out in your garden along with beginning to plan for the seasons which lie ahead – fingers crossed for an Indian Summer 2025! n

holdenclough.com

10% o plants

Get 10% o all plant purchases from Holden Clough Nurseries, by presenting this voucher at the till. O er only valid on plant sales. Not available for purchases from e Reading Room Kitchen.

Expires 31st October 2024. Voucher supplied through Live e Dales - Autumn 2024 issue.

THE LOWDOWN ON FABRIC

In this regular column members of the team at Dalesbred Interiors in Settle share their expertise. Bob, from the upholstery team, answers a commonly asked question

What should I look for in an upholstery fabric?

The first thing to remember is that not all fabrics are equal, so never be tempted to use curtain fabric for upholstery. The finished result will be poor, often stretching and bagging, and the fabric itself will age and wear very quickly.

Before you get involved in deciding on fabric design and patterns for your project, take a good look at the piece of furniture to be covered as this will often help you decide on the type of upholstery fabric. A piece with lots of curves would benefit from a fabric that has some stretch, while dining chairs ideally need easy clean fabrics for example. If your furniture has lots of deep buttons then using cotton fabrics can give a crisp clean look to the folds while velvet will give a more relaxed sumptuous feel.

If durability is your main concern then ask your fabric supplier what rating your chosen fabric has received under the Martindale Abrasion Test – where a machine repeatedly rubs on the fabric to check at what point

it shows signs of wear and then rates it accordingly. Fabric for light domestic use usually has a rub test of between 13-15,000 rubs, severe contact is 75,000+. For general domestic use on sofas 35,000 and above is generally suitable.

WHEN IT COMES TO THE ‘FUN BIT’ OF CHOOSING THE COLOUR, PATTERN AND STYLE THERE ARE STILL SOME FACTORS TO CONSIDER

In the UK, upholstery fabrics must comply with current fire regulations. Any item being reupholstered, dating from 1950 to the present

day, must also comply so fabrics should be back coated and treated to meet regulations or be inherently fire retardant such as wool. There has been a rise in concern about health issues around ‘off gassing’ in fire retarding chemicals, with many customers now looking for healthier eco options. This has led to us setting up our sister sofa manufacturing company, Slow, working exclusively in sustainable eco friendly fabrics and sofa fillings.

When it comes to the ‘fun’ bit of choosing the colour, pattern and style there are still some factors to consider. Large scale patterns are very fashionable at the moment but if you have a large pattern repeat of more than 20cm you are going to have to buy considerably more fabric to allow for pattern matching, and this can be very costly and wasteful. The size of the piece of furniture can also dictate pattern size, an oversized floral on a small bedroom chair would mean a lot of the pattern was lost. I also prefer to avoid heavy patterns on deep buttoned furniture as the buttoning means the pattern can distort. If in doubt when choosing your upholstery fabric ask an expert for help. Here at Dalesbred, between all of the team we probably have over 100 years of combined experience in interiors and it could mean you could avoid a costly mistake. n

Photography: Gemma Suckley

CONTEMPORARY STYLE

A Ribble Valley couple turned to Clearly Interiors when it came to designing and installing en-suite shower rooms along with a stunning new kitchen and living space in their lovely family home.

Photography: Kirsten Platt

Aproperty in Whalley has, over the years, been transformed into a family home that works on every level for a professional couple and their two teenage children.

When they bought their new home 13 years ago it needed a major overhaul as the couple explain: “It was not really decorated to our taste and it lacked character. One of the first things we did was to choose a new kitchen. We tend to like clean lines and lots of storage space so things never look cluttered.”

Over the years the kitchen space has been totally re-worked – walls have been knocked down and a large adjoining orangery overlooking the garden was built, which transformed the space.

However, in 2020 the couple were introduced to Clearly Interiors and their team of professional craftsmen: “A friend recommended them and as we needed a new en-suite to our bedroom, we decided to visit Clearly Interiors. They really listened to us when we were discussing our personal tastes

and what we wanted to achieve.

“They produced a number of CAD drawings so we could see it on screen and move things around and once we were happy with the design, they set to work and absolutely transformed it!”

THEY GAVE US A WEEK BY WEEK PLAN WHICH OUTLINED THE WORK TO BE CARRIED OUT AND THEY STUCK TO IT EVERY DAY

The couple were so happy with the work that Clearly Interiors had carried out, they

began contemplating a new contemporary kitchen: “Again we began talking it through with them and they came up with some amazing designs. They listened to us and the design began to evolve into something that we really loved.

“Once we were happy with it they gave us a week by week plan which outlined the work to be carried out and they stuck to it every day.”

One of the most important parts of a building programme is the project management and this is where Clearly Interiors excelled: “They were amazing! Stuart from Clearly Interiors, worked on the kitchen project and was faultless. They were just so organised.”

The old kitchen was removed and a wall was demolished so the utility could be moved to a dedicated space near the garage.

Today, the kitchen of this contemporary property is a fine example of smart design, with a workable layout and well-chosen accessories. Despite it being the busiest room in the house, with plenty of storage, this large airy space is immaculate and most definitely is at the heart of this beautiful family home: “We live in the kitchen –it works so well!” agree the couple, who entertain regularly.

A huge island unit dominates the length of the L-shaped room. At one end is an alcove

with a large flat-screen TV with wine-chiller beneath. There is a six-seater dining table where the family eat and there is extra ‘social’ seating at one end of the large island which heralds the start of the working area of the kitchen with its sleek, minimalist lines. Above the graphite-coloured island with its expanse of pure white worktops, are three huge, black and copper pendant lights. Behind the island are two striking pieces of contemporary art – the large-scale works reflecting the grey, copper and white palette of this beautiful living space.

THE SPACE LENDS ITSELF TO ENTERTAINING AND THAT’S ONE OF THE THINGS WE LOVE ABOUT OUR NEW KITCHEN

At the far end of the island is a double sink with matt black Quooker boiling water tap while at the opposite end is a sleek Siemens induction hob with hidden central extractor.

On the far wall are two Siemens single ovens, while all the other appliances are seamlessly integrated including a fridge, dishwasher and a nifty pull-out recycling station under the island.

There are huge wide soft-close drawers for lots of storage while the light aged-oak Karndean flooring, with shades of grey, runs throughout the kitchen and seating area overlooking the gardens.

Comfortable sofas and lamps feature in the open orangery area making this an ultimately sociable and family-friendly living space: “I like cooking and we like to socialise so the space is ideal. It lends itself to entertaining and that’s one of the things

we love about our new kitchen.”

Since having their en-suite and kitchen re-modelled by Clearly Interiors the couple went on to commission two more en-suites for their children. For their daughter they chose a smart walk-in shower, a sink unit with an attractive lightwood façade, chrome fittings and a feature chrome radiator and for their son, large marble effect tiles dominate the room which also has a walk-in shower and a feature mirror above the sink, which has anthracite taps and matching towel rail.

With capacity to match all budgets, Clearly Interiors is renowned for its showroom which has numerous displays that can be viewed to give customers lots of ideas when it comes to planning a new home project.

Speaking about the work carried out on the Whalley property, Stuart Heyes of Clearly Interiors adds: “They were a lovely couple with high expectations and they were very open to our design suggestions. By moving the utility into the garage, we reclaimed the entire floor space for the kitchen.

“Once they were happy with the design they couldn’t wait to get started!

“It is flattering when a customer asks us to return to do another project as it shows we are on the right track with our product offering and the quality of our services.”

COMPETITON WINNER UPGRADES HER FLOORING

Claire Appleton, from Cowling, could not believe her luck when she won first prize in the big giveaway.

IIIIIIIIn need of new flooring, Claire jumped at the chance to enter Hall’s Carpets & Flooring Ltd’s biggest giveaway to date; a brand new carpet, underlay and fitting

n need of new flooring, Claire jumped at the chance to enter Hall’s Carpets & Flooring Ltd’s biggest giveaway to date; a brand new carpet, underlay and fitting

in a room of choice. Having never before won anything in her lifetime, she hadn’t anticipated winning any of the prizes on offer, let alone coming first place! Luckily for Claire, her fortune was about to change as her hopes of winning finally came to fruition.

I’VE NEVER WON ANYTHING

The competition, held by Hall’s Carpets & Flooring Ltd, an established flooring company located in Crosshills, offered their Instagram followers the chance to win a room of choice fully fitted with carpet and underlay. 2nd place winner would receive a rug and the remaining winners gifted mats, all with hundreds of options to choose from.

Posting to her Instagram story after winning the competition, Claire wrote “I’ve never won anything. Thank you!”.

Claire chose the on-trend colour Coral Cluster from the Carefree Twist range, a beige-shaded, luxuriously soft and bleachcleanable carpet that perfectly matched her earthy-toned interior. Her stunningly decorated room boasted show-home worthy style whilst maintaining a cosy, homely vibe.

“We lived over winter with these floor boards, the hope was to renovate them. But honestly, it was just too cold. We then toyed with replacing it with wooden floor. So when I won a competition to have a new carpet fitted it kind of made our decision easier and I have zero regrets!”

Says Claire.

“We’ve used Hall’s Carpets for the rest of the house...and our previous homes. So I was honestly thrilled to have won a carpet from them! I can highly recommend!”

“We’ve used Hall’s Carpets for the rest of the house...and our previous homes. So I was honestly thrilled to have won a carpet from them! I can highly recommend!” in a room of choice. Having never before won anything in her lifetime, she hadn’t anticipated winning any of the prizes on offer, let alone coming first place! Luckily for Claire, her fortune was about to change as her hopes of winning finally came to fruition.

Claire can be found @making_a_home_ on Instagram, where she documents her renovations and DIY projects in her 1920s home.

WE’VE USED HALL’S CARPETS FOR THE REST OF THE HOUSE AND OUR PREVIOUS HOMES. SO I WAS HONESTLY THRILLED TO HAVE WON A CARPET FROM THEM

WE’VE USED HALL’S CARPETS FOR THE REST OF THE HOUSE AND OUR PREVIOUS HOMES.

WE’VE USED HALL’S CARPETS FOR THE REST OF THE HOUSE AND OUR PREVIOUS HOMES. SO I WAS HONESTLY THRILLED TO HAVE WON A CARPET FROM THEM

SO I WAS HONESTLY THRILLED TO HAVE WON A CARPET FROM THEM

WE'RE

Four of the six mat winners chose the same option. Although the machine washable ‘Prague’ range has always been a best-seller, the winners were given an 89-page catalogue to choose from, further highlighting its popularity.The above photo is by winner Kirsty (@tiny_twinkle_terrace) and below by Cheryl (@the_lovells_home_made_perfect), both chose Prague in ‘Grey/Sugar’

WE'RE EXCITED ABOUT THIS CONTENT AND WOULD LOVE TO FEATURE IT

WE'RE EXCITED ABOUT THIS CONTENT AND WOULD LOVE TO FEATURE IT ON OUR CHANNELS

rug

scanning the QR code. Available in varying

scanning the QR code. Available in varying sizes and colours.

s rug by scanning the QR code. Available

same option. Although the machine washable ‘Prague’ range has always been a best-seller, the winners were given an 89-page catalogue to choose from, further highlighting its popularity.The above photo is by winner Kirsty (@tiny_twinkle_terrace) and below by Cheryl (@the_lovells_home_made_perfect), both chose Prague in ‘Grey/Sugar’

Get yours before they re gone! The fast selling Prague range comes in varying sizes and 3 colour options.

Get yours before they’re gone! The fast selling Prague range comes in varying sizes and 3 colour options.

Unit F3, Hardings Lane, Crosshills, BD20 7DS 01535 630732 | 07515 668428

www.hallscarpetsltd.co.uk

Unit F3, Hardings Lane, Crosshills, BD20 7DS 01535 630732 | 07515 668428 www.hallscarpetsltd.co.uk

search: hallscarpetsltd

AUTUMN IN THE GARDEN

Nigel Eaton from Moss & Moor Garden Centre looks at projects to tackle as the seasons change

With September now upon us the lush summer growth turns to autumn tints and low light shines behind foliage. This is the time to plan ahead for a glorious late autumn display and plant up containers for late winter and early spring. Here are five projects to do now to draw out the colours in your garden.

1. Plant grasses in your borders and containers. With the sun lower on the horizon and that clear autumn light, grasses come into their own. Feathery miscanthus and pennisetum seed heads lend themselves to being added to planting schemes of Michaelmas daisies and autumn flowering bulbs such as cyclamen and saffron crocuses. Most grasses like sunny, well drained positions. So ideal in terracotta containers.

2. For a flowering container that will last for months from December, now is the time to choose winter and spring flowering bulbs. As a rule of thumb, plant the bulb that will flower last at the bottom of the pot and layer up earlier flowering bulbs above the base layer. In a 45cm container, you can add seven layers of densely packed

THIS IS THE TIME TO PLAN AHEAD FOR A GLORIOUS LATE AUTUMN AND PLANT UP CONTAINERS FOR LATE WINTER AND EARLY SPRING

bulbs from alliums at the bottom and working up with late tulips, late narcissus, mid flowering single tulips, early narcissus, early double tulips, crocus and a top layer of snowdrops. Visit your garden centre for ideas and advice. This ‘lasagne planting’ will give you seven months of colour.

3. Plant biannual flowers now, such as wallflowers, foxgloves, sweet williams and forget-me-nots in warm autumn soil to get them well rooted and growing strongly for a fabulous display next April, May and June.

4. Lightly prune and deadhead your rose bushes and rake up any fallen foliage. Apply a granular rose food around the bush to strengthen the growth that will develop next spring. This will help protect them from attack by blackspot and greenfly next season. Strong healthy plants are much more resilient and able to look after themselves.

5. Finally, don't overlook colourful stems for autumn and winter gardens. Plant Cornus ‘Annie’s gold’ or ‘midwinter fire’ for a breathtaking display throughout the entire autumn and winter months. These hardy shrubs are very much in vogue because they can stand being in saturated soil over the winter and grow away strongly in the spring. n

Moss & Moor Coutances Way, Ilkley LS29 7HQ 01943 663699

hello@mossandmoor.co.uk mossandmoor.co.uk

AUTUMN

2DB 01200 423267 vareys.co.uk

right:

£295 Jigsaw Ilkley 13 Brook Street Ilkley LS29 8AA 01943 609 574 jigsaw-online.com

Above left: Barbour Daleside roll neck knitted jumper £129 Vareys Town and Country 2 Market Place Clitheroe BB7

Above

Silk Linen Gauze Maxi Dress

STYLE

Above left: Bespoke silver-grey, three-piece suit with classic single breasted two button jacket £POA Norton & Townsend 114 Bolling Road Ilkley LS29 8PN 0345 066 2030 nortonandtownsend.co.uk

Above right: Open cable roll neck cashmere jumper £625, Longline woven coat £795 npeal.com

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 aim to cover as much as the UK as possible. Instore appointments or home/office visits to suit you.

Bespoke Suits for Business, Pleasure, Weddings, Shooting & Racing ILKLEY

114 Bolling Road, Ilkley West Yorkshire LS29 8PN Tel: 0345 066 2030

Email: bespoke@nortonandtownsend.co.uk www.nortonandtownsend.co.uk

ARE YOUR FEET READY FOR AUTUMN?

Autumn is here and at fitright footwear we will measure your feet and help you choose suitable footwear to get you out and about, making the most of the glorious days of autumn and getting prepared for the colder days of winter.

As one of the UKs leading independent, specialist, retail shoe shops we are used to helping customers who have awkward feet find shoes that fit. We aim to give our customers the very best choice by stocking an amazing range of footwear from various brands that offer a variety of styles, widths and depths to accommodate feet of all shapes and sizes.

Unlike most high street shoe shops, we have an appointment only system that includes a complimentary measuring and fitting service with professionally trained shoe fitters specifically for adults. We offer outstanding advice and product knowledge to ensure that all footwear fits correctly and is fit for purpose.

Sometimes it’s hard to accept that our feet have changed, and we can no longer wear the shoes we want to wear, or have always worn, because they are just not suitable anymore. In fact, 72 per cent of people are wearing the wrong size shoes.

If your feet are hurting, they are trying to tell you something. To persist in wearing

unsuitable footwear will result in causing our feet more problems and making existing problems worse.

Feet change as we get older, generally becoming longer, flatter and wider and so it becomes necessary, in the interests of our health and wellbeing, to select our footwear more carefully to accommodate these changes.

older it’s so important to keep moving, and comfortable well-fitting footwear will help us to do this. Everyone deserves to have comfortable, supportive footwear that fits.

Our autumn and winter season range of footwear includes a variety of boots, trainers, and shoes, for men and women, to ensure complete comfort throughout the cooler, wetter weather.

Book your appointment, allow us to work our magic and help you choose your autumn and winter footwear to keep your feet warm, dry and comfortable this autumn and winter. We fit right so you feel right. n

Appointments only:

Available Wednesday to Saturday between 10am and 5pm

We don’t realise how important our feet are or how much we rely on them until they become problematic. We make regular trips to the dentist and optician for checkups. When was the last time you gave your feet a checkup?

Correctly fitting footwear is an investment in our health and wellbeing. As we get

3 Bower Road, Harrogate HG1 1BB 01423 561172

harrogate@fitrightfootwear.co.uk

32D King Street, Clitheroe BB7 2EP 01200 425399

clitheroe@fitrightfootwear.co.uk

fitrightfootwear.co.uk

QUENCH 4D

REPLENISHING SERUM £49

An ultra-low molecular weight hyaluronic acid complex that will work immediately, providing 72 hours hydration. It has an improved cumulative effect with long term use. discoverlaser.co.uk/skincare-products

BIG DAY BEAUTY

BENEFIT GIMME BROW £26

A volumising ﬁbre gel, tames and tints revealing a natural looking brow that is water resistant and long wearing. beneﬁtcosmetics.com

These treatments and products will give your skin a natural, healthy glow along with ﬂawless make-up that stays put for hours on your special day

TOM FORD EYE

COLOR QUAD £74

Lustrous, creamy, high impact shadows with a longwearing ﬁnish. tomford.co.uk

CHARLOTTE TILBURY AIRBRUSH LIP BLUR £28

Matte-meets-moisture liquid lipstick for hydrated, ﬂawless looking lips. charlottetilbury.com

ESTEÉ LAUDER DOUBLE

WEAR 24 HOUR WATERPROOF GEL EYE PENCIL £30

This easy-to-apply gel pencil glides on smoothly and sets in seconds to become waterproof and smudge proof. Hoopers Harrogate 01423 504091 hoopersstores.com

111SKIN ROSE GOLD BRIGHTENING FACIAL TREATMENT MASK £20

Peptides and rose damask infuse deep into the dermis to tighten, plump and smooth, guaranteed to instantly and dramatically power-up your skin with a radiant glow.111skin.com

HOURGLASS VEIL HYDRATING SKIN TINT £49

Instantly boosts skin’s moisture levels and provides all-day hydration for a dewy, healthy-looking glow. hourglasscosmetics.co.uk

PERRICONE MD NO

MAKEUP BLUSH £33

A gel-cream blush that adds natural-looking rosiness and a healthy, youthful glow. perriconemd.co.uk

BOBBI BROWN VITAMIN ENRICHED FACE BASE 15ML £19

Multivitamin-enriched moisturising primer for the face which instantly nourishes, plumps and preps skin with healthy hydration. bobbibrown.co.uk

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

SISLEY INSTANT ECLAT £78

An illuminating primer and radiance-boosting treatment that erases shadowy areas and signs of tiredness. hoopersstores.com

“I love seeing people rediscovering joy, energy and self-assurance.”

At this welcoming, medically-registered clinic, open the door to a wealth of relaxing, permanently life-enhancing holistic treatments, including prescription-only, anti-wrinkle, skincare and dietary treatments. Benefit from expert advice, the best clinical hygiene, equipment, results and aftercare from Jackie and her friendly team of highly trained medical nurses.

REDISCOVER HEALTH AND ENERGY

Feel happy and comfortable in your skin thanks to safe, effective and advanced clinical treatments at award-winning Jacqui Mac Medispa on The Grove, Ilkley. Kate Bowyer talks to the clinic’s owner Jackie McGarry. Photography: Gemma Suckley

If you’re powering up for autumn and winter, Jacqui Mac Medispa can help you boost your skin and self-confidence.

A former NHS registered nurse specialising in aesthetic therapies, owner Jackie McGarry, who grew up in Ilkley, personally heads the only CQC-registered clinic in the area specialising in a wide range of life-enhancing aesthetic treatments, including a unique one-to-one spa experience creating a bespoke treatment package that utilises all the services available in the clinic.

“Common conditions from redness, acne, pigmentation and rosacea to frown lines, sagging skin and thread veins can affect confidence and make us feel unfairly older, tired and unhappy,” says Jackie. “When clients discover they can be easily, comfortably and painlessly treated with our gold standard world-class laser machine, it’s like showing them a magic mirror – except it’s their naturally-restored youthful reflection smiling back at them!

Harness the power of advanced, medicalgrade, energy-based treatments, holistic aesthetics, pioneering topical and noninvasive procedures, fillers, medical-grade injectables and microneedling, for confidenceboosting, life-enhancing natural results.

WE’LL HELP YOU FIND THE PERFECT TREATMENT THAT MAKES YOU FEEL HAPPIER, HEALTHIER AND MORE COMFORTABLE IN YOUR SKIN, READY TO STEP BACK OUT REJUVENATED AND REINVIGORATED!

The high-tech Alexandrite Laser Hair Removal is revolutionising the world of permanent depilation. Using an emerald crystal laser source, its precise wavelengths target swift, permanent hair removal without affecting surrounding skin. Forget the ‘sting’ of traditional laser hair removal and relax – it’s the only pain free laser in the area. Suitable for the widest range of hair types and colours, including very light and thin hair, wider coverage has the benefit of requiring fewer sessions, leaving you ready to bare even quicker!

Safely monitored, measured reduction

to a healthy weight range is proven to boost energy and confidence, while reducing the risk of joint issues, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancers. Prioritising physical and mental health, Jacqui Mac is delighted to offer an understanding and effective nurse prescriber-led breakthrough new weight management programme, including detailed initial consultation, bespoke treatment plan with access to the latest prescription pharmacological treatments, and regular follow-ups for supported success.

Benefitting from an increasing portfolio of individually-focused consultations, treatments and exclusive experiences in well-appointed private rooms, treatment is strictly by appointment only.

Fancy a sneak peak? The clinic is holding demonstration days on the first Saturday of every month leading up to Christmas –including one planned for 7th September. All are welcome to pop in, meet the staff and see the type of treatments available. Tickets for events can be booked through the website. With recommendations swiftly spreading across the Dales, groups and individuals can now enjoy the ultimate social pamper and rejuvenation session, with exclusive use of the clinic and practitioners through their most advanced treatments.

WHEN CLIENTS DISCOVER THEY CAN BE EASILY, COMFORTABLY AND PAINLESSLY TREATED WITH OUR GOLD STANDARD WORLD-CLASS LASER MACHINE, IT’S LIKE SHOWING THEM A MAGIC MIRROR – EXCEPT IT’S THEIR NATURALLY-RESTORED YOUTHFUL REFLECTION SMILING BACK AT THEM!

“When life is busy, this is the ultimate intensive, high-impact rejuvenating boost,” says Jackie: “Exclusive access to your choice of all our energy devices in turn, including HIFU (High-Intense Focussed Ultrasound) non-surgical facelifting, hydrafacial, laser facial, LED medical grade light treatment, and immunity-boosting Intravenous Vitamin Nutrient Therapy. The cumulative effect of focussing these high-energy treatments in one session seems to generate a vitality circuit, leaving everyone incredibly energised, revitalised and glowing.”

This is the perfect opportunity to meet up with friends, with ‘self care’ on the menu.

Whether you fancy it as a high-energy party event, or relaxing into an undivided one-on-one private treatment. It’s important every so often to step back from our busy lives and take a moment to relax into some vital ‘me-time’.

“We’ll help you find the perfect treatment that makes you feel happier, healthier and more comfortable in your skin, ready to step back out rejuvenated and reinvigorated,” says Jackie.

Autumn and winter are the perfect months to begin your laser journey to treat pigmentation, begin laser hair removal sessions or treat thread veins, as you need to be sure you don’t have an active tan. If you’re having laser hair removal treatment you will visit the clinic for more than six months with a total of six to eight sessions.

The outstanding and beautiful clinic offers all round holistic treatments for skin. It also offers prescription medicine for weight loss if deemed appropriate. n

Jacqui Mac Medispa

58 The Grove, Ilkley LS29 9PA 01943 618118

jacquimacaesthetics@gmail.com jacquimac.com

jacquimacaesthetics

EASING WEDDING TENSION

All life changes can impact stress, not only negative experiences but positive ones too, each one requiring us to adapt. Factors that contribute to wedding stress include: Perfectionism: Striving for a flawless wedding is unrealistic so manage expectations.

• The To-Do List: A never-ending list can lead to overwhelm.

• Budget: Financial limitations may mean having to make tough decisions.

• Decision Making: Compromises are often needed to satisfy everyone.

Thankfully, there are ways to manage and counteract stress:

• Remember the Purpose: Focus on the love and commitment you’re celebrating. This is ultimately what matters.

• Set Aside Personal Time: Take breaks from planning and enjoy activities unrelated to the wedding.

ask for help from close friends or even a professional.

• Prioritise: Decide what aspects of the wedding are most important. Allocate your budget accordingly and make thoughtful choices to avoid future regrets.

How to beat the wedding blues. Tips from therapist Amy Brown of The Power of Your Mind in Skipton FOCUS ON THE LOVE AND COMMITMENT YOU’RE CELEBRATING

• Share Tasks: Include your partner and

SEASONAL SKIN CARE

• Embrace Imperfections: Not everything will go as planned. Unexpected events can become cherished memories. My bridesmaids had to take a taxi because their car didn’t arrive – and this has become a funny, memorable story.

• You Can’t Control Everything: You have the power to control your responses. Allow others the freedom to think and feel as they wish and accept that the weather will behave as it pleases. n

thepowerofyourmind.co.uk

Autumn brings cooler temperatures and lower humidity, which can leave your skin feeling dry and sensitive. To keep your skin healthy during this season, consider the following tips

Switch to a hydrating cleanser: Opt for a gentle, hydrating cleanser that doesn’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Foaming cleansers can be too harsh in cooler weather.

Exfoliate gently: Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, but during autumn, it’s important to do this gently. Use a mild exfoliator once or twice a week to maintain a smooth complexion without irritating your skin.

Moisturise deeply: Swap your lightweight summer moisturiser for a richer cream that provides extra hydration. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides and shea butter, which help lock in moisture.

Use sunscreen: Even though the sun feels less intense, UV rays are still harmful. Continue using sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin from sun damage.

Hydrate internally: Drink plenty of water and incorporate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like fish and walnuts, to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

Protect your lips and hands: Use lip balm and hand cream regularly to prevent chapping and cracking, which are common in colder weather.

By following these tips, you can keep your skin healthy, hydrated and glowing throughout the autumn months.

SKIN CANCER SOLUTION

Mohs surgery is the most effective technique for removing common skin cancers, we discover what makes it the gold-standard and meet a doctor leading the ﬁeld

Highly-regarded Consultant

Dermatologist, Dr Arif Aslam, has made the prevention and treatment of skin cancer his life’s work. His dedication and passion have resulted in him working internationally due to the high demand for his specialist surgical skills. In 2021, he brought his unique skill-set home to the people of the North.

Arif is a double fellowship-trained Mohs Micrographic Surgeon. One of only 14 UKbased members of the prestigious American College of Mohs Surgery.

Mohs surgery is considered the goldstandard for treating common types of skin cancer. Done in stages, including immediate microscopic review while the patient waits, all cancerous cells are removed and healthy tissue is le untouched. All while leaving the smallest possible scar.

Mohs surgery has the lowest cancer recurrence rates and highest cure ratesup to 99% for primary lesions and 98% for reoccurring lesions unsuccessfully treated by other methods. It also has the best cosmetic results of any skin cancer treatment.

“It was amazing doing high volume Mohs surgery in New Zealand and Australia where they have the highest incidence of skin cancer, but I always wanted to return home to the north of England and set up my own surgical practice,” says Arif.

“My friend and colleague Dr Miguel Montero, a highly-regarded skin specialist, heard I was back and asked me to consider joining his team. I jumped at the opportunity. What better place than Miguel’s beautiful Medical Skin Clinic, located privately within the Crow Wood Resort in Burnley, to ful l my ambition of having a local clinic o ering Mohs and advanced dermatology services.”

Dr Montero commented: “I’ve diagnosed

and treated non-cancerous lesions for many years in my clinic and in the NHS.

“Patients with more serious abnormalities previously required a referral to a specialist dermatologist, which can be a lengthy and worrying process. So, when I heard Arif was

MOHS SURGERY IS CONSIDERED THE GOLD-STANDARD FOR TREATING COMMON TYPES OF SKIN CANCER

returning to the UK and looking to set up his own practice, I was straight on the phone,” says Miguel.

“Lesion removal is di cult to obtain via the NHS, especially in Lancashire and Yorkshire. Even if you get to see your GP, there are few with a dermatology speciality. Sadly, some serious cases get missed or caught too late.

MOHS SURGERY HAS THE LOWEST CANCER RECURRENCE RATES AND HIGHEST CURE RATESUP TO 99%

“With Arif on board, we are helping more people, giving them safe, fast and e ective private dermatology treatment that eliminates unnecessary wait times and worry.”

“Miguel and his wife Gill, who is Clinic Director, have thoroughly spoiled me,” Arif says with his trademark warm and friendly smile. “I have an excellent purpose-designed

Mohs suite and lab within their clinic, where I work with their team to carry out my Mohs surgery.

“Because it involves a special multistep process, Mohs surgery is slightly more expensive but more cost-e ective than other skin cancer treatments. Health insurance plans also cover it. For patients seeking a traditional approach, I also remove noncancerous and cancerous skin lesions using long-established surgical methods.”

Skin cancer, whilst rare, is on the increase, but should you get a diagnosis, it’s more treatable than ever. Dr Aslam encourages everyone to keep on top of their skin health because early detection leads to a better diagnosis. ■

TO BOOK A DERMATOLOGY CONSULTATION call Discover Laser’s friendly team on 01282 420886

To ﬁnd out more about treatment visit: www.discoverlaser.co.uk

constant need for admiration and a lack of empathy. Here are some signs that may indicate narcissistic traits:

• Grandiose sense of self-importance leads them to exaggerate achievements and talents, expect to be recognised as superior without commensurate achievements.

• They are often absorbed with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty or ideal love. They often invest in the past, present or future to impress at the start of a relationship.

• They believe they are special and unique and can only be understood by, or should associate with, other special or high-status people.

• They require excessive admiration and are constantly seeking praise and attention.

MIND MATTERS

• They have a sense of entitlement and unreasonable expectations of especially favourable treatment or automatic compliance with their expectations.

There are a number of complex subjects I find challenging, if not impossible, to write about in just a single page article. Sexual or physical abuse, PTSD and narcissism are just a few.

So why write about narcissism?

Therapeutic coach Lynn Scholes delves into the extremely complex, but surprisingly common, issue of narcissism To find out

Over the last few years, the term has been bandied around with little or no thought to its true meaning. People, often men, are referred to as ‘narcissistic’ by those who have only the faintest idea of what it actually

means. It leads to people questioning if they are in a narcissistic relationship.

Narcissism comes on a ‘spectrum’ and people can demonstrate narcissistic tendencies, but that is very different from being a full-blown narcissist. Being in a narcissistic relationship can be life-changing for the partner, leading to them finding it impossible to ever trust their own judgement, or potential partners again.

Narcissistic partners are insidious, exhibiting one set of behaviours at the start of a relationship, to gain trust and create vulnerability. Once they are in the driving seat, their behaviour changes and the blame is all yours.

It’s important to distinguish between someone having narcissistic traits and having Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), which is a clinical diagnosis made by a mental health professional. If you are concerned about your partner’s behaviour, consider consulting a therapist for guidance. We can help you understand the dynamics of your relationship and provide support in addressing any unhealthy patterns.

Identifying whether your partner is a narcissist involves recognising specific patterns of behaviour. NPD is characterised by a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, a

• They take advantage of others to achieve their own ends and set up relationships to exploit their partner.

• Their lack of empathy means they are unwilling/unable to recognise or identify with the feelings and needs of others.

• They are often envious of others or believe that others are envious of them.

• They display arrogant behaviour or attitudes because of the belief that they are superior.

When discussing true narcissism, put simply, there is only one person who will ever matter in the mind of a narcissist and that is themselves! Narcissists typically prioritise their own needs and desires above others, showing a lack of genuine concern or empathy for those around them. Their relationships are often marked by self-centredness and exploitation.

I will follow this up with an article on what to look out for at the start of a relationship that should ring alarm bells. n

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

CHALLENGE BRINGS SIBLINGS CLOSER

Relating many tales from their incredible adventure in shared sentences, interspersed with affectionate teasing, it’s hard to believe Betty and James haven’t always been so connected.

“Growing up, Betty was probably naturally closer to our elder brother, Matt,” recalls James. “We did lots together as a family, but as kids it wasn’t always necessarily by choice!”

So when Betty, 25, suggested to James, then 21, they enter BBC Race Across the World, it might not have seemed the most natural pairing.

“Watching the programme together is something we still love as a family, which connected it to James more than my friends,” she explains. “Plus I would worry that it could be the end of a close friendship, if you fell out, but family is always there –we’d still be connected when we returned, whatever happened en route.”

Contestants faced significant language barriers as they travelled through countries

With Celebrity Race Across the World finding many of us glued to our screens, Gargrave siblings Betty and James Mukherjee, who finished third in this spring’s public contest, reveal to Kate Bowyer the inside highs, lows, and unexpected emotional outcomes of their epic journey

including Vietnam, Cambodia and South Korea. While James had only experienced ‘lads’ holidays’ in Magaluf and Ayia Napa, Betty had previously visited the programme’s starting point, Japan – although with phones and flights embargoed and just a shoestring budget, this was no carefree holiday.

AFTER SPENDING 18 HOURS AWAKE ON A BONE-SHAKING BUS IN BOILING HUMIDITY, AS SOON AS YOU STEP OFF YOU’RE STRAIGHT INTO TRYING TO COMMUNICATE AND MAKING IMPORTANT SPLIT-SECOND DECISIONS

“There’s only so much you can do to prepare,” says James. “I tried to train for carrying heavy bags and eating and sleeping less by getting up really early in the months before we left, even fasting for 24 hours to try and shrink my stomach! But the mental challenges far outweigh any physical.

“After spending 18 hours awake on a bone-shaking bus in boiling humidity, as soon as you step off, you’re straight into trying to communicate and making important splitsecond decisions that make the difference between making the next checkpoint or falling out of the race.”

When changing countries meant constant switching between unfamiliar currencies, the siblings came up with a cunning plan. “We’d go to the nearest supermarket and see how much a croissant cost in local money,” smiles Betty. “That gave us a baseline to budget from! Our dynamic definitely evolved across the challenge – usually James is the positive one, whereas I can withdraw into myself, but we gradually grew better at anticipating and supporting each other.”

In episode seven viewers saw the siblings share an emotional heart to heart, that Betty says would never have happened back home.

“At 16, I was diagnosed with Mayer Rokitansky Küster Hauser (MRKH) syndrome, which means I was born without a womb, and only one kidney. It ripped away all my expectations about having a family. Now I recognise that was when I began constructing a protective shell around myself.”

“And you’re not going to share details or worries with your 11-year-old brother, as I was at the time,” nods James. “I knew about it, but we never talked about it, and I certainly never appreciated the fundamental impact it’s made to Betty’s life and outlook. Whether it was the cumulative rigours of the journey, or us growing closer, but Betty being able to open up to me was an incredible watershed moment for both of us.”

“So when you ask about our highlights,

there’s so many unforgettable places – like Thailand’s contrasts, which we both loved,” says Betty. “But I think it’s a fundamental change within me. From 16 I’ve connected my body with negativity, the things it couldn’t do. I’ve come home feeling so much stronger and positive – look at the incredible things my body can do! This is just the start.”

AT 16 I WAS DIAGNOSED WITH MAYER ROKITANSKY KUSTER HAUSER (MRKH) SYNDROME, WHICH MEANS I WAS BORN WITHOUT A WOMB, AND ONLY ONE KIDNEY. IT RIPPED AWAY ALL MY EXPECTATIONS ABOUT HAVING A FAMILY

With no phones and limited funds, competitors had to connect with members of the public for everything from directions and transport to food, shelter and paid jobs. No small task with no common language, these experiences made James’s highlights.

“We were shown so much kindness, it was humbling,” he says. “People opened their homes to us, went out of their way for us, and often refused any payment, however much we tried. I’ve learned there’s a worldwide human connection which transcends language –you can be sitting around a family meal not

understanding one word, yet still recognise and crack up at dad jokes!”

After a gruelling 15,000 kilometres in 51 days, Betty and James reached the finish line on the Indonesian island of Lombok, 24 hours behind winners Alfie and Owen. On behalf of all us viewers, I ask them to spill the beans – when the cameras stop, are there sneaky limos or five star hotel rooms?

“We wish!” laughs James. “As long-term watchers, we wondered that, too, but it’s really genuine – what you see on screen is a totally accurate representation – apart from the smells, luckily. So if you’re watching the celebrity version, you can be assured all the discomfort is real – it’s making us view it with new eyes!”

“The only odd thing is seeing our 51 days – and only about three full nights’ sleep –compacted into a few short episodes,” reflects Betty. “But they’re a great, tangible reminder of incredible experiences we are never going to forget.”

With blistered feet back on home soil, Betty has returned to work as a social media and events manager for a gym, and James in recruitment and sales in Leeds, both citing their amazing organisations for enabling them to compete. Have their aspirations, outlook or day-to-day situations changed?

“Definitely,” nods Betty. “While I shared a huge emotional milestone, I know James has been changed by it too. MRKH is largely

hidden, yet affects up to 1 in 5,000 women. It’s a bit odd being recognised in the street, but if watching me has helped anyone else to view their body, capability and future options more positively – even to seek assistance and yes, talk about it as a family, I’m more glad than I can say.”

PEOPLE OPENED THEIR HOMES TO US, WENT OUT OF THEIR WAY FOR US, AND OFTEN REFUSED ANY PAYMENT, HOWEVER MUCH WE TRIED

“After travelling halfway across the world, I thought it was time I moved out of our parents’!” smiles James. “But I’m only in Leeds, and Betty’s in Silsden, so not far from home. We might not be the type to speak on the phone every day but we’ve definitely got a deeper level of understanding and connection when we meet up – and more to reminisce about!”

“James is even considering holidaying further afield than Spain!” cheeks Betty. “One of the things we took with us was our Nanna’s motto ‘onwards and upwards’. That’s worth continuing to live by, every day.” n

Race across the World is available on BBC iPlayer: bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/ m0002tvs/race-across-the-world

For information, groups and support with MRKH, see: mrkhconnect.co.uk/other-mrkh-organisations/

LET’S TAKE A WALK…

Nothing could be simpler than this ‘miles without stiles’ walk in the Yorkshire Dales. The delightful amble to Cotter Force offers beautiful scenery and is suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.

Photography: Wendy McDonnell

Known as ‘the valley of the waterfalls’, Wensleydale is home to a number of must see waterfalls including Hardraw Force – the longest unbroken drop in England – and the worldfamous Aysgarth Falls which featured alongside Hardraw Force in the hit movie ‘Robin Hood Prince of Thieves’.

One of the lesser known, but most accessible, waterfalls is Cotter Force just west of Hawes. This is a beautiful, secluded waterfall in a wooded setting and comprises a series of about six waterfalls with the largest single drop being about 1.5m.

COTTER FORCE

Distance: Less than 1 mile

Start point: SD850915

Turning point: SD848919

Facilities: The nearest public toilets, including RADAR facility toilets, are in the Hawes National Park car park. There is a pull-in for three cars, but with limited width for wheelchairs.

Accessibility: The path to the falls is specially graded so it’s suitable for pushchairs and wheelchair users. A bench near the falls means you can rest and enjoy the view.

ROUTE DESCRIPTION

1. From Hawes drive along the main road –the A684 – towards Sedbergh.

2. After crossing the River Ure on a narrow bridge, you will shortly find a lay-by on the right.

3. A path leads from the lay-by to the waterfall.

4. While walking the route look out for

dippers, grey wagtails, redstarts, long tailed tits and kingfishers.

Discover this walk and more about the history, landscape, wildlife and culture of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, including more walking routes at: yorkshiredales.org.uk

The Dales is a great place to enjoy a hike, a walk or a gentle stroll, and to spend quality time in friendly local shops, pubs and cafés. There are walks to suit all ages and abilities, including ‘miles without stiles’ routes that are perfect for people who find walking a challenge or whose group includes wheelchair or pushchair users. n

A free Yorkshire Dales walking app is available to download and features 35 fantastic trails throughout the national park. It is designed to appeal to walkers of all ages and abilities and the mix of linear and circular routes are graded to help you make an informed choice of walk. You can make your selection from either a list or map view.

The app’s key feature is an offline mapping tool that allows you to track a walk, regardless of whether there’s a mobile phone signal or not. It also contains essential information such as the Countryside Code, what kit to take, and safety tips, and provides links throughout to more detailed information at: yorkshiredales.org.uk.

WE ARE RECRUITING DELIVERY PEOPLE

Live Magazines need enthusiastic and reliable delivery people to join our established teams across The Dales.

These opportunities are ideally suited to distributors working independently across two or three areas.

To do this you’ll need to be physically ﬁt, have access to your own transport and have somewhere to store the magazines.

We are looking for people across The Dales especially in: HARROGATE, ILKLEY, SKIPTON, ADDINGHAM,

AND KIRKBY LONSDALE.

Please register your interest with Mark Dixon please email mark.dixon@live-magazines.co.uk

LET’S TAKE A RIDE…

This relatively new route was launched in 2018 and takes in the stunning scenery of Swaledale. It follows a mixture of high quality tracks and very quiet road sections which keep close to the valley bottom. Photography: Stephen Garnett

The Swale Trail is aimed at aspiring young mountain bikers and families who want to ride together. It is a unique facility within the Yorkshire Dales National Park – a valley bottom route 20km (12 miles) in length, of which 70 per cent is on unsurfaced tracks. The trail runs between Reeth and Keld in Swaledale and is easy to follow.

Along the way are a few climbs, lots of stone tracks and very quiet roads. From Gunnerside to Keld is a bit tougher with a couple of harder climbs, but with stunning views and a more remote feel. You can do different sections or the whole route and you will find bike hire, cafes and places to stop along the way.

THE SWALE TRAIL

Start: Reeth

Finish: Keld

Distance: 20km (12 miles)

Toilets and cafes: Reeth and Keld

ROUTE DESCRIPTION

1. Leave Reeth on the road passing the Dales Bike Centre and then make a careful right turn by the Bridge Inn. Then right again along a quiet road to the first off-road section.

2. This takes you along a walled stone track to a more open area and across to the river. A small climb takes you back towards the road.

3. A couple of short sections of tarmac and long sections of easy tracks takes you to the edge of Gunnerside which is a good chance for a stop with cafes and a pub.

4. The section from Gunnerside to Keld is the harder part (blue grade) with a couple of challenging climbs, but with stunning scenery and a gorgeous section alongside the River Swale. You get to see the remains of the old lead mining industry that was once important and many of the classic hay meadows and field barns for which Swaledale is so well known.

5. On the short steep section across the river at Keld you may wish to walk. Keld may be tiny but has parking, a cafe, toilets and an interesting museum in a small space. n

Remember – this is a multi-user route and you will meet walkers, horse riders and other cyclists. Share the Trail and when you meet people call out hello and pass wide and slow. You will also meet the occasional motor vehicle, both on the roads and some of the tracks as farmers use them to access their fields.

For more routes see: cyclethedales.org.uk

EVERYTHING FESTIVE

At Everything Retreat we are thrilled to have been awarded ‘Lux Life Best Retreat with Hot Tubs in the North West 2024,’ so all the more reason to host your corporate Christmas event at Everything!

During the festive season Everything Retreat will be transformed into a festive, wintry wonderland with sparkling Christmas decorations, creating a magical feel, offering delicious, tailored menus to suit your palate from small plates and sharing boards through to festive afternoon teas. Dinner will be a three or four-course affair, topped off with mouthwatering Christmas cocktails or perhaps an old Port or fine single malt. The choice is yours.

With executive chef Simon Bradshaw and newly-appointed head chef Scott Bannon, we understand the importance of creating a

warm and welcoming environment for your corporate Christmas party. Our dedicated team is committed to delivering exceptional hospitality, ensuring that your event is a resounding success.

We will begin with you and what you envisage your event to look like, whether it’s wellness-based bonding through yoga, Pilates, breathwork, sound baths and ice baths, or perhaps guided walks or electric bike tours? Or, if the creative side in you wants to shine through, then our wreath-making, chocolate-making and watercolour classes are guaranteed fun with a result to take home.

OUR DEDICATED TEAM IS COMMITTED TO DELIVERING EXCEPTIONAL HOSPITALITY, ENSURING THAT YOUR EVENT IS A RESOUNDING SUCCESS

If you and your team would simply prefer to enjoy live entertainment, festive food and drink to celebrate your year, then ending your day in one of the retreat’s luxurious lodges with a log burner and bubbling hot tub, will be just perfect knowing you will be waking to a delicious breakfast delivered to your door.

We’ll listen to your ideas, your visions, desires and most importantly, your budget, and then plan the ideal corporate Christmas party for your staff.

Your team deserves the best, so to reward and keep them motivated, let us do the hard work for you. We think that’s a winning combination! With our attention to detail and exemplary

service, we can promise an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression on you and your team. From the moment you drive through our gates, you will be greeted with a warm smile and a chilled glass – plus an unwavering commitment to meeting your every need.

• Midweek Christmas events commence mid-November.

• Corporate midweek offerings at Everything Retreat start mid-November.

Call our events team today to discuss further and request a brochure on 01254 965095. n

Everything Retreat

Primrose Hill, Primrose Lane Mellor BB2 7EQ 01254 965095

EVERYTHING retreat

hello@everything-retreat.com

everything-retreat.com

everythingretreat

RibbleValley

SHOTGUN WITH HERRIOT

Spoiler alert: We are not talking shotgun wedding – instead think ‘riding shotgun’. Why? Because James Herriot often had a canine companion in his passenger seat while on call in the Yorkshire Dales. Writer Alan Veale followed the famous vet’s example on a trail through Wensleydale and Swaledale

Alove for North Yorkshire and the Dales permeates the work of ‘the world’s most famous vet’.

“It is a land of pure air, rocky streams and hidden waterfalls. On summer days when the sun beats down on the lonely miles these uplands are a paradise, the air heavy with the sweetness of warm grass, the breeze carrying a thousand scents from the valley below.”

Those are the words of Alf Wight (Herriot’s real name), introducing us to James Herriot’s Yorkshire – a book he published in 1979. This was a departure from his veterinary stories, filled with colourful characters and gentle humour. The focus here is on Herriot’s ‘patch’: an area he adopted after growing up in Glasgow. The pages display his love for North Yorkshire, where he found romance and raised a family.

Taking inspiration from James Herriot, I began a circular drive, along with Ollie, my 13-year-old miniature Yorkshire Terrier,

starting and finishing at Leyburn.

With James Herriot’s Yorkshire as our guide, the first stop was Wensley. Herriot trekked through here with his son Jimmy

and a school friend, on the way to a Youth Hostel at Aysgarth. Viewers of the original BBC TV series All Creatures Great and Small might recognise the 13th century church as his wedding venue.

We drove on through West Witton; another location personal to Herriot, evoking memories of wedding anniversary dinners at the Wensleydale Heifer. At Aysgarth, we turned right towards Carperby. The imposing building on the corner is no longer a hostel, but a private residence. Down the hill where Herriot once crashed his brakeless car, to the picturesque Aysgarth Falls, a favourite family spot where the River Ure majestically descends broad limestone steps.

A PLAQUE OUTSIDE PROUDLY DECLARES THE WHEATSHEAF INN AS JAMES HERRIOT’S HONEYMOON STAY

Only a mile further along narrow lanes we reached Carperby. This might be described as the ‘heart’ of Herriot Country, where a plaque outside proudly declares the Wheatsheaf Inn as ‘James Herriot’s Honeymoon Stay’. (More on that later.) The neighbouring village of Askrigg is a short

drive away, and an essential stop on today’s trail. This was where the fictional village of Darrowby received the BBC treatment. Their version of Thirsk’s Skeldale House stands opposite the market cross and is now selfcatering apartments.

We grabbed a snack and drink at the nearby Green Dragon Inn, before taking in the spectacular hundred-foot drop of Hardraw Force Waterfall. Herriot found this an eerie place. He did then what visitors today are asked NOT to do: “I found I could walk right underneath … and stand there, quite dry, looking out through the falling stream. But I still had that funny feeling…”

Refreshed, we turned north and crossed into Swaledale via Buttertubs. I was conscious that Herriot often walked this area on foot, but even in a car, with few vehicles on the road, there was so much of God’s Country to admire.

Our journey back to Leyburn took in several villages following the Swale’s flow: Thwaite, Muker, Low Row and Reeth, to name but a few. While passing through, it struck me that Alf Wight’s legacy lies not just with gentle tales that make us smile, but in the people that shape this unique part of England. In particular, the children of that famous vet continue their father’s work, proudly encouraging visitors and residents alike to appreciate the beauty of their surroundings. I asked daughter Rosie Page if she could sum up her impressions of the man who, even during his honeymoon,

DAD’S FIRST SIGHT OF SWALEDALE, DRIVING OVER GRINTON MOOR FROM LEYBURN, WAS THE BEGINNING OF A LOVE AFFAIR. HE FOUND ‘BALM FOR THE SOUL’ ON THE HIGH MOORLAND

tested cows for tuberculin with his bride, Joan, at his side.

“Dad met and married my mother in wartime,” she said. “My brother Jim and I had very little compared to the young in today’s materialistic world, but we were rich

in the things that really matter: our parents’ unconditional love, attention and support, and lots of laughter! Mum and Dad set an example by working and playing hard, and we learned to enjoy the simple things in life, including an appreciation of the Yorkshire countryside and its wildlife.

“Dad’s first sight of Swaledale, driving over Grinton Moor from Leyburn, was the beginning of a love affair. He found “balm for the soul” on the high moorland, and he imparted that love to his children. Through his books, ‘James Herriot’ has given joy and comfort not just to Jim and I, but to tens of thousands of people worldwide. Hopefully, he will continue to do so in perpetuity.” n

“On cold evenings, you’ll usually find me curled up on the sofa with a Spiced

“For extra spice, it’s great with ginger beer. I also use it as a tasty alternative to whisky in a hot toddy.”

LIZ • CUCKOO GIN CUSTOMER • CHORLEY

ESTATE LIFE

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

Welcome to our summer article which I write from my in-laws home in Sun Valley, Idaho. There’s no bad time of year to be here but summer in the Gem State is extra sweet. It’s paradise for those that enjoy the outdoors boasting the largest roadless area in continental US namely, the River of No Return Wilderness. Back in the UK at Gisburne Park, summer trade is busy. Hindelinis is bursting at the seams now the weather is on our side.

There is live music Friday nights and Saturdays from 1pm – 7pm. Weddings are in full swing, glamping is booked out and the lodges and cottages are now virtually sold out.

Meanwhile initial discussions are ongoing with Ribble Valley Borough Council with regards to the transformation of the estate with the focus being the Grade I

mansion house. It’s an extremely exciting chapter for Amber and I and we are thrilled to have partnered up with Rural Solutions from Skipton to help us remaster the use of the estate as a whole and not bit by bit. They are the UK’s leading authority on whole estate plans and recently completed a 150-page strategy for Chatsworth for the Duke and Duchess of

WE ARE ALWAYS THRILLED TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR HOME, WHICH SEEMS TO HAVE TOUCHED SO MANY LOCALS IN VARIOUS WAYS

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

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

Also, if you or anyone you know might have some historical photos or information about Gisburne Park please don’t hesitate to share it with us. We are always thrilled to learn more about our home, which seems to have touched so many locals in various ways.

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

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

gisburneparkestate.co.uk

@hindelinis

@ribblesdalepark

@gisburneparkestate

FROM LATHE TO LEGACY

Ben Hopkins discovers how Diane Sinnott keeps craftsmanship alive at Tennants Auctioneers in Leyburn

In the world of auctioneering, provenance is paramount. It’s not just about what an item is, it’s about the stories it carries –who made it, where it came from, and the historical period it represents. For Diane Sinnott, head of 20th Century Design Department at Tennants Auctioneers, these elements are vital to the company’s success.

Tennants Auctioneers boast 27 departments, each staffed with specialists ready to delve into the history and value of items ranging from watches and jewellery to stamps, coins, and musical instruments. This attention to detail is a hallmark of Diane’s approach, which has roots in her childhood.

“Mum and Dad were keen collectors, so my first memories of an auction house were from a pushchair,” Diane recalls. Her father, a Formula 1 engineer, wasn’t racing through auction houses but carefully selecting second-hand furniture crafted by artisans. “We never had new furniture in our house, but everything was carefully chosen,” she reflects, emphasising the value of craftsmanship over mass production.

By the age of four, Diane was already learning to use a lathe, and by sixteen, she was gaining work experience at Christie’s in London. A degree in Fine Arts Valuation from Solent University further shaped her career path.

“This is my seventh auction house,” she notes, having criss-crossed the country before finding her place at Tennants over two decades ago. One of Diane’s most cherished subjects is the work of Robert ‘Mouseman’ Thompson, a furniture maker born 1876 in Kilburn, North Yorkshire. “Mouseman is my favourite,” she says. “While others went industrial, he preserved traditional handcrafts, using medieval tools to create a ripple effect on the surface of oak furniture.” This technique, originally used by medieval craftsmen

MUM AND DAD WERE KEEN COLLECTORS, SO MY FIRST MEMORIES OF AN AUCTION HOUSE WERE FROM A PUSHCHAIR

to reflect candlelight in cathedrals before electricity, continues to distinguish Thompson’s pieces today.

Mouseman is very popular among buyers at auction and Tennants have sold many important pieces over the years. One of the most memorable collections was the contents of the library at Leeds Girls High School, furnished by Mouseman in the 1930s. The librarians’ desk alone sold for £18,000. Tennants holds the world record for a Mouseman carving after selling a carving of an Anthropomorphic Mouse for £13,000 in 2021.

The legacy of Thompson’s work endures, upheld by a group of 40 plus craftsmen known as the ‘Critters,’ a name coined in 1997 during a conversation between Diane and her father. “My dad watched me categorise these craftsmen, each with their own animal name – Beaver, Cat, Squirrel, Fox – he termed them ‘Critters,’ and the name stuck, even if it is an American word,” she laughs.

In an era of rapid modernization, Diane finds it gratifying that handcrafted furniture is experiencing a renaissance. “These works will last for two or three hundred years,” she says, highlighting the enduring quality of such craftsmanship and materials.

Yet, the challenge remains in inspiring the next generation. “A lot of young people don’t want to commit to the five-year apprenticeship required to learn these skills,” she observes. n

tennants.co.uk

The Lake District. The Hotel

Standing on the shores of Lake Windermere, Langdale Chase has been welcoming visitors since 1891. Following a careful and sensitive restoration, you will discover a

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YORKSHIRE DALES –OPEN TO ALL?

On the 75th anniversary of the National Park movement and 70th anniversary of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, Victoria Benn considers the importance of sustainable transport into and around our beautiful countryside

Today, most of us are able to enjoy the countryside in one of the 13 national parks in England and Wales – but this wasn’t always the case.

With 2024 marking the 75th anniversary of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949, it is worth reflecting on the spirit of this as a ‘people’s charter’, enabling and encouraging everyone –especially those from urban areas – to enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits that being out in the fresh air and nature brings.

Yet, as it stands, unless you have access to a car – 54 per cent of people in socially rented and 35 per cent in privately rented housing are without – you’d be hard pushed to make it into the Dales and home in a day for that fix of fresh air. In fact, if it wasn’t for the Community Interest Company – Dales and

SO WHY DO WE STILL HAVE A PIECEMEAL, CONFUSING AND UNDERFUNDED YORKSHIRE DALES BUS SERVICE?

Bowland, set up in 2007 by Friends of the Dales, which raises funds to provide the DalesBus network, there wouldn’t be any Sunday and Bank Holiday bus services into the Dales.

So why do we still have a piecemeal, confusing and underfunded Yorkshire Dales bus service?

“There are two big issues,” explains Jonathan Riley, sustainable transport champion for the environmental campaigning charity, Friends of the Dales. “Many people won’t entertain leaving their cars at home and helping to reduce pollution and congestion in the Yorkshire Dales National Park until we have a more frequent and integrated network of rail and bus services. For example, one of the most car congested ‘honey pots’ is Malham

and yet the last bus out of Malham leaves at 1.35pm Monday – Friday, which is hardly an incentive for people to do the right thing.

“Even more seriously, for young people and households who don’t have a car, this kind of funding and timetabling means that the Dales and its health benefits are closed to them – a social inequality that is both immoral and unjust. The shortage of affordable housing (another issue!) affects young people even more, so despite the capped £2 bus fares – which are a great thing – if people can’t physically get into and move around the Dales for work or leisure then all the health and social benefits this brings are only going to worsen, reinforcing the ageing demographic in rural areas.

“Through our Living Access campaign for sustainable transport we are committed to working with the Yorkshire Dales National Park, North Yorkshire Council and the bus companies to secure better funding to enable all sections of our society, especially young people, to have equal access to the Dales.” n

friendsofthedales.org.uk

TYING THE KNOT AT BRITAIN’S HIGHEST PUB

It is nearly 30 years since Britain’s highest pub became the first in the country to hold a wedding ceremony. Annette McIntyre looks back at the history of the Tan Hill Inn

The Tan Hill Inn has many claims to fame. At 1,732 feet above sea level it is Britain’s highest pub – and at 12 miles from the nearest town it is also one of the most remote.

Situated in stunning isolation on Swaledale moorland the 17th century premises replaced an earlier inn and it stands at the meeting point of several routes across the Pennines. With its long history the Tan Hill Inn is reputed to have provided shelter both to Mary Queen of Scots and to highwayman Dick Turpin.

It also holds the unique – and unassailable – record of being the first in the country to obtain a licence to hold civil wedding ceremonies under laws allowing couples to marry in places other than a church or registry office.

Now nearly 30 years later Tan Hill is a popular, and stunning, wedding venue with its beautifully converted barn providing a romantic and memorable setting. But its first wedding was a relatively simple affair.

Owner Andrew Hields said: “The Tan Hill Inn’s first bride and groom came from the pub’s many widespread regulars who leapt at the chance to be married somewhere other than a registry office or church. They were

initially unaware that their ceremony was also the first pub marriage in the land.

“That first ‘Hitchin’ up the hill’, as weddings at Tan Hill were soon to become known, was a cheerful and intimate affair. The congregation enjoyed a hearty wedding breakfast of roast beef served in Tan Hill’s famous Giant Yorkshire Puddings and the bride was toasted not with champagne but tasty pints of Theakston Old Peculier.

“The wedding barn in those days was simply a barn, shared by the pub landlord’s work bench, tractor, bits of machinery and an area where his sheepdogs bedded down for the night. Its potential as a wedding venue had not been realised then.

“The pub’s first wedding was conducted in the dining room where the first bride and groom plighted their troth over a wooden ale barrel. That old barrel is still used today and many couples have read their vows, exchanged rings and committed themselves to one another across its well-polished surface.”

THE BRIDE WAS TOASTED NOT WITH CHAMPAGNE BUT TASTY PINTS OF THEAKSTON OLD PECULIER

Tan Hill Inn is built on an ancient site, where there has been some sort of habitation since neolithic times. The Celts named it ‘Tan Heol’ which roughly translates as ‘Hill of fire’. These early settlers were known to build huge beacons and pyres lit to celebrate the summer solstice, midwinter, the coming of spring and other pagan rites.

The pub is first mentioned in print in 1586 where it is described as a “solitary inn amongst a vast mountainous tract!” Over the centuries, shepherds, drovers, miners, and packhorse traders all passed across the Pennines on those routes and used the inn.

The pub was bought in 2018 by Bradford-

born Andrew Hields who was looking for a new business venture. The building’s isolation posed many challenges – not least that it is off-grid, with not a pipe or cable going to or from it.

“On first sight, it went against all my approach to business, against my instincts,” Andrew said. “My gut instinct said ‘no’ but my business head said, ‘I suppose you could’.”

THE PUB IS FIRST MENTIONED IN PRINT IN 1586 WHERE IT IS DESCRIBED AS A SOLITARY INN AMONGST A VAST MOUNTAINOUS TRACT

It was Andrew’s ‘business head’ that won out. “I saw the property potential, the on-site and off-site trade potential, the brand potential, the market potential. My predecessors had done marvellous things with the business, but I felt it could go further.

“My first plan was to amplify its character, which makes it a stunning setting for weddings, and it was a priority to improve the letting rooms and the kitchen.”

Being the highest pub in Britain has given The Tan Hill Inn a cult status. This has been boosted by TV appearances in adverts for Everest, Waitrose and Vodafone, as well as dramas, including Oz and James Drink to Britain, and Vera, the Geordie detective. The pub also featured on news bulletins around the world when visitors and staff were

snowed in for a weekend in 2021 during Storm Arwen.

Because of its fame the inn is on the bucket list for many people, including overseas visitors, who feel a connection to the place and keep coming back. These customers are known as ‘Tan Hillers’ and they come from all over the world, from all walks of life.

Andrew said: “We have lords and ladies, celebrities, people arriving on foot via the Pennine Way, and people arriving in helicopters. And they are a wonderful bunch.” n

tanhillinn.com

WORLD’S MOST EXPENSIVE HONEYMOON?

At £1.7m, a worldwide cruise staying in the best suite on board followed by a stay in New York’s most luxurious hotel penthouse, is viewed as being the most expensive holiday you can find!

The world’s most expensive holiday has been unveiled costing one super-rich couple £1.7 million. Revealed by travel experts at Panache Cruises, two lucky guests can cruise the world on board the Seven Seas Splendor staying in the unrivalled s plendour of the ultra-luxurious Regent Suite.

Then, settling back into life on land after the cruise, the couple will spend one week in the most expensive hotel room in New York, the £60,000 a night penthouse at The Mark Hotel.

The 140-day world cruise from Miami to New York will take in six continents, 40 countries and 71 ports at a cost of £9,500 per night.

But only those staying in the Regent Suite will get to explore each of the 486 shore excursions including 73 UNESCO World Heritage sites with a personal chauffeur and guide.

REGENT SUITE

Situated at the very top deck with the same view as the bridge, the Regent Suite spans the ship and is equal in size to a luxury penthouse.

with unlimited in-suite treatments to help unwind between ports.

The suite is adorned with rare, original Picasso lithographs, hand-blown Lalique vases, a Marzotto Cristallo designer throw and a custom Steinway Grand Maroque piano.

WE WANTED TO EASE THE COUPLE GENTLY BACK TO EARTH SO WE ADDED A ONE-WEEK STAY IN THE BEST HOTEL ROOM IN NEW YORK

The suite’s living room, dining room, two spacious bedrooms, two marble bathrooms and two private balconies are overseen by a personal butler.

Foodies won’t be disappointed either with priority reservations at speciality restaurants, access to a private dining room and complimentary bottle of Louis VIII worth £4,000.

eight is included as is dinner with a senior ship officer.

On day sailings, the couple can enjoy unlimited drinks and the panoramic ocean view from their private bar or mini pool spa on one of their two private balconies.

NEW YORK

On arrival in New York, the couple will be chauffeured to The Mark Hotel to stay in the 12,000 square-foot penthouse where Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, had her baby shower.

IT’S

ESTIMATED THAT, DURING THE CRUISE, 14,000 BOTTLES OF CHAMPAGNE WILL BE SERVED

Located in the Upper East Side of Manhattan the couple can rub shoulders with the most high-profile stars and CEOs or relax in their spacious living room, conservatory or massive rooftop terrace.

The trip includes business class flights and a pre-cruise luxury hotel package so guests arrive on the ship feeling refreshed.

Sailing in January 2027, the ship will travel across the Caribbean, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australasia and the South Pacific before returning to America.

James Cole, Founder and CEO of Panache Cruises said: “This will be the first time a Regent Seven Seas Explorer-Class ship will sail around the world giving a select few lucky guests the opportunity of a lifetime.” n

Inside guests can relax in a private spa including a steam room, sauna and jacuzzi panachecruises.com

Should the couple wish to invite friends back, a complimentary cocktail party for

we select every aspect of the suit to complement your physique, accentuate your best features and conceal any flaws.

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

TAILORED TO PERFECTION

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

Abespoke suit tailored perfectly to you gives you an unparalleled confidence and ensures you stand out from the crowd in effortless style. From initial discussions over a drink to the finished result that is the most flattering and comfortable suit you have ever owned, this is the part of the wedding journey that is all about you.

We guide you through the process of designing your perfect wedding suit, so that it matches your personal style and the theme of your day. We take into account all the

factors of your wedding, whether it is formal or informal, indoors or out, contemporary or vintage, and the climate of the destination, as well as ensuring it will complement your bride’s outfit.

From the cut that will most flatter your physique and the colours that complement your skin tone, to the cloths that will look fantastic and also keep you cool and comfortable, we have the answers.

With endless beautiful cloths from which to choose, including worsted wools, tweeds, cottons and cashmeres all from the finest textile mills in Yorkshire, Scotland and Italy, we will find the exact weight, shade and finish you are looking for in your ideal suit.

Our measuring process takes into account every aspect of your figuration to achieve the perfect fit. In our design and cutting process

For suits ordered before 31st October 2024

we will make a bespoke wedding shirt for you and your best man absolutely free of charge – simply Quote LTD03 FREE SHIRT when you appoint

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

Make a statement on your wedding day with the finest bespoke suit you will want to wear again and again for those other special events in life such as christenings, friends’ weddings or days at the races. n

With two piece suits starting at £950, we welcome enquiries and would be delighted to arrange an appointment for an initial consultation

Charles Campbell Bespoke Tailoring

Suite 9, Manor Court

Salesbury Hall, Salesbury Hall Road

Ribchester PR3 3XR

01254 367968

07714 758296

info@charlescampbellbespoke.co.uk

www.charlescampbellbespoke.co.uk

Arrange

WEDDING JOURNEY…

Luxurious Crow Wood Hotel & Spa Resort has forged a reputation for being one of the most exclusive wedding venues in the region.

Photography: The McHendrys

Crow Wood is an ultimately stylish and imaginative destination, giving couples the opportunity to achieve the wedding of their dreams. The venue offers everything you could wish for to create your perfect wedding including fabulous food with a menu tailored to you, on-site accommodation for the happy couple and their guests as well as the recently-extended £16m Woodland Spa next door, which is one of the UK’s leading luxury spas.

Crow Wood is also surrounded by acres of woodland and a huge lake – just perfect for those wedding photographs!

MEET THE COUPLE

We talk to Ian and Sharon Braniff who recently married at Crow Wood. What made you choose Crow Wood for your wedding day?

“From the moment we stepped inside Crow Wood and met the wedding team, we knew it was the perfect venue for our big day.

Our wedding day was everything we hoped it would be – and more!

How did the wedding team at Crow Wood help create the wedding of your dreams?

“The Crow Wood wedding team were on hand every step of the way to help us bring our vision to life. We had regular calls, emails and meetings which ensured that they understood our requirements exactly.

“They recommended suppliers to dress the venue and worked with them on the day to ensure that the final look was exactly as we envisioned – it looked amazing!”

Did you choose a specific theme?

“We chose an elegant black and white theme as we wanted a look that was chic and classic and Crow Wood fitted that vibe perfectly.”

Did everything run smoothly on the big day?

“We held our ceremony and wedding

OUR GUESTS WERE BLOWN AWAY BY THE QUALITY OF THE HOTEL, THE SERVICE AND THE STANDARD OF FOOD AND DRINK –WE RECEIVED SO MANY LOVELY COMMENTS

breakfast in the beautiful Lakeside Suite, which has floor to ceiling windows and panoramic views of a terrace, ornamental lake and countryside beyond.

“We also had access to a separate, private bar area for our guests to relax during the room turnarounds – this was the perfect place for a pianist and singer to perform after the ceremony and where our guests were entertained with table magic during the evening turnaround. We live an hour from Crow Wood so most of our guests stayed overnight – they were blown away by the quality of the hotel, the service and the standard of the food and drink – we received so many lovely comments about our choice of venue.

And, your most memorable moment?

“After our ceremony, we stepped onto the terrace as husband and wife and were greeted by all of our family and friends throwing confetti – this was such a special moment, and one we’ll never forget!”

MEET THE WEDDING CO-ORDINATOR

Ella Cholmondeley is the Senior Wedding Planner at Crow Wood, here she explains how the team work their wedding magic.

What do you love most about your job?

“I just love being a wedding planner, it’s such a special role where you get to be a part of creating unforgettable moments. I love meeting new couples and watching their wedding dreams come to life.”

How do you work with a couple to ensure you plan exactly the type of wedding day they want?

Working with a couple to plan their ideal wedding day involves effective communication, understanding their preferences and attention to detail. From the couple’s initial appointment right through to their wedding day we ensure they have a designated wedding planner as their point of contact for appointments or any phone calls or emails leading up to their big day. We’ll then be there on the day to ease any last-minute nerves. The key is to build a strong relationship with the couple and understand their vision.”

How do you identify and adapt to changing trends in the wedding industry?

“It’s important to stay up-to-date by following wedding blogs, attending industry events and connecting with industry professionals. I always keep an eye on social media for inspiration along with new ideas.

“Australia is renowned for staying ahead of the curve when it comes to wedding trends. Every few months I spend my time researching and gathering ideas!”

What is the best compliment you have been paid for your work?

“It’s challenging to identify a singular, standout compliment from one wedding, but the expressions of gratitude expressed through their speeches and the acceptance of thoughtful gifts from couples is an extremely heartfelt response.” n

From a classic country inn and a simply astounding contemporary mill conversion to gorgeous stately homes and romantic manor houses, we have the perfect venue to make your dream wedding day come to life.

Our newest addition to the Dream Venues Collection, Wennington Hall in Lancaster, is now open for viewing.

NEW VENUE!

Please see the website for full details of our wedding showcase and open day events throughout September & October.

PHOTOGRAPHERS: Nick English, Mike Plunkett, Emilie May, Sam Sparks & Samantha Broadley

BOUTIQUE COUNTRY WEDDING…

Perfect for smaller weddings is an elegant country pub, renowned for its beautiful village location, stunning countryside views and of course, food that is refined, seasonal and packed with flavour

The Rum Fox at Grindleton launched last year, and fast forward to 2024, the inn has forged a reputation for its fabulous seasonal menus and it’s laid-back, sophisticated country vibe.

It has also become a popular destination for smaller, intimate weddings – the wedding party taking over the whole of the Rum Fox with its country-style bar, restaurant, intimate private dining and the wonderful garden room with its retractable roof – perfect for summer weddings!

Chef patron Bob Geldeard is at the heart of the Rum Fox, devising day-to-day menus as well as bespoke menus for celebratory events –including weddings.

Bob’s style of cooking is classic-contemporary, taking full advantage of seasonality, creating dishes that are super-delicious with a presentation that is absolutely flawless!

Transforming from sophisticated country pub to delightful wedding venue is a transition that is ultimately easy for this relaxed, classic space that has style in abundance. Catering for 60 to 70 guests, the bar area and garden room make for a wonderfully, friendly drinks reception, before moving into the lovely

IN THE EVENING

DANCE UNDER THE STARS IN THE GARDEN ROOM –THIS IS A UNIQUE, MAGICAL EXPERIENCE!

dining room to enjoy dishes that have been totally tailor-made for the wedding party in the atmospheric restaurant, where diners can watch the expert chefs in action.

In the evening enjoy drinks and dancing under the stars in the garden room – this is a unique magical experience!

In the cooler months, the roaring log fires, cosy armchairs and country interior make for a very special, intimate backdrop where guests can easily mingle in this relaxed, comfortable space.

Wowing guests with his stunning, creative dishes, chef Bob delights in formulating menus that are totally bespoke to each specific occasion: “Seasonality is always important to us,” explains Bob. “The pub menu changes from week to week depending on what’s available while bespoke menus can feature whatever guests require, although I am always happy to recommend what’s in season.”

Holding exclusive weddings and private

celebrations has been something that has evolved at the Rum Fox, which recently won the Best New Tourism Business Award at the Lancashire Tourism Awards.

Not surprisingly, the pub attracts diners from across the region who are keen to sample a piece of the Ribble Valley that is centred around culinary excellence and country elegance.

Alongside weddings, The Den private dining space caters for up to12 people for small celebrations for family, friends or for corporate dining. n

For wedding enquiries do not hesitate to get in touch with Bob and his team at the Rum Fox. A limited number of dates are available for this year and 2025.

The Rum Fox

Sawley Road

Grindleton

Clitheroe BB7 4QS

01200 871691

info@therumfox.co.uk

therumfox.co.uk

Picture Perfect Moments

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 your parties and celebrations

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

Explore endless possibilities at...

The Yorke Arms, Ramsgill-in-Nidderdale, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, HG3 5RL www.theyorkearms.co.uk | privatehire@theyorkearms.co.uk | 01423 755243

Bowcliffe Hall, Bramham, Wetherby, West Yorkshire, LS23 6LP www.bowcliffehall.co.uk | events@bowcliffehall.co.uk | 01937 541111

ST A G PARTIES THE OF EVOLUTION

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

writes Dan Hyams

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

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

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

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

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

travelcounsellors.co.uk

Happily Ever After begins at Northcote...

Imagine your dream wedding: a day of pure relaxation, an exquisite gourmet menu, crafted by award-winning Chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen, and unforgettable memories.

Northcote provides the perfect setting for your special occasion, in the heart of the Ribble Valley.

Northcote Road, Langho, Blackburn, Lancashire, BB6 8BE

Photo credit: Anthony Ives Photography, Lee Brown Photography

EDUCATION NEWS

NEW SIXTH FORM BUILDING

Woodhouse Grove is delighted to be fully utilising its new Sixth Form building. The building opened in February and combines a professional feel, with mixed-use space for both collaborative and individual working, as well as high tech seminar rooms. A spokesperson said: “Our students are enjoying the range of spaces, including the outdoor pods, and the building has already been used for a myriad of activities including student lessons, industry specific workshops with partner businesses, our life skills programme, post-18 guidance events and medical practice interviews.”

AMBITIOUS DEVELOPMENT

Skipton-based Craven College’s £2.3million development is underway. This ambitious redevelopment of the College’s Auction Mart Campus in Skipton will provide state-of-the-art construction and land-based engineering facilities that respond to the skills need of the regional community. Through T-level capital funding from the Department of Education, Craven College is closely working with Craven Cattle Mart and ADNC Projects Limited to develop the campus to allow students to tailor their skills to support sectors key to our regional economy. The campus will be transformed during the 2024-2025 academic year.

ASHVILLE AWARD SHORTLISTING

Ashville Prep School in Harrogate has been shortlisted for a prestigious award. The school is in the running for the Independent Prep School of the Year category in the Independent School of the Year Awards 2024. Mr Phil Soutar, Head of Prep School, said: “It’s wonderful that a national light has been shone on our everyday commitment and enthusiasm to education across all areas. Ashville continues to lead the way in primary school education in Harrogate and the surrounding area.”

RECORD RESULTS

Stonyhurst are delighted to announce a record set of International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme results. Pupils achieved an impressive average of 35 points, with 25 per cent achieving 40 points or more (acknowledged as equivalent to 4A* grades at A-Level) and 40 per cent achieving 36 points or more, well above the international average of 30 points for Diploma candidates. The cohort of 49 pupils was the school’s largest to date with the above average score showing the quality of teaching across a very broad range of starting points and languages. Just some of the global university destinations include the University of St Andrews, Hamilton College New York, King’s College London, University of Sydney, University of St Gallen Switzerland, and Luiss Italy.

EMPOWERING FUTURE ATHLETES

A brand-new astro-pitch and an increase in curriculum highlight Highfield Prep’s continued commitment to physical education and wellness. The astro-pitch, which has capacity to feature tennis, football, and netball, is the result of significant investment, and emphasises the importance of physical education at Highfield. Students enjoy three hours of timetabled sport each week, across 10 sports including tennis, cricket, football, rugby, and swimming. In addition, students will practise mindfulness and wellbeing with the expansion of the early years yoga programme.

CELEBRATING THE ARTS

Queen Ethelburga’s are celebrating after receiving the prestigious Gold Award from Artsmark, who are accredited by Arts Council England and who offer the only creative quality standard for schools. Helen Stephenson, Head of Creative Arts, said: “We’re extremely proud of achieving our award as we’re committed to delivering a high-quality, broad and ambitious arts and cultural education.” Arts Council England Chief Executive Dr Darren Henley said: “I congratulate Queen Ethelburga’s. Becoming an Artsmark school demonstrates that young people have the opportunity to develop character and resilience, increasing their knowledge, curiosity and skills that will remain with them through to adult life.”

MEET THE HEAD

James Lockwood returned to his old school to become its headmaster. Annette McIntyre discovers what drew him back to Woodhouse Grove

Why did you decide to work in education?

My positive experience at school had a big influence on my decision to become a teacher. Initially, my main motivation was to run a school 1st XV rugby team; however, as I made my way in the profession, I started to think more deeply about what education should really be about. I loved being a Head of Department and the Housemaster of a boys’ boarding house. For me, they were the most enjoyable and fulfilling roles in education –although being a Headteacher is a great job too! What was it like to return as headteacher of Woodhouse Grove? How have things changed?

Since I left in the early 1990s, the Grove has changed outwardly beyond recognition with the addition of a plethora of new buildings and facilities. However, its heartbeat is still very much the same. This place is more than just a school; it is a learning community. As a boy here, I greatly valued the safe and nurturing environment it provided. And

I value it equally, if not more, now that I have returned as Headmaster.

Did you enjoy your own schooldays?

What were the highlights?

I absolutely loved them. I enjoyed being taught by some great teachers and taking part in the sport and all the other extra-curricular opportunities that were on offer.

What sets Woodhouse Grove apart?

Firstly, our thriving boarding community adds a great deal to the school. A valuable by-product is enormous flexibility for our day students; the school is open 24/7, there are opportunities for flexible, occasional boarding and the availability of both breakfast and an evening meal.

Secondly, we believe that to truly care about the future of our young people, we must regard preparation for work as equally important as preparation for examinations. Our unique Sixth Form Pathways Programme combines the benefits of independent education with the flexibility and career focused approach of a Sixth Form college. Finally, our pastoral care is second to none. We were the first independent school in the country to be awarded the Wellbeing Award for Schools and were thrilled with our reaccreditation after three years.

How would you describe your school’s ethos? The Grove is a school that values a rich

education; one which provides a varied and full range of opportunities in which each individual can find their niche.

Our aim is to nurture individuals who are focused, well-balanced, well-mannered, self-confident and unpretentious; who will take their place in society as responsible and decent adults and make a positive difference.

As a former rugby captain at Woodhouse Grove and an Associate Director of Bradford City Football Club, how important do you think sport is for children and young people? Woodhouse Grove is well known for its sporting prowess. Sport has an overwhelmingly positive influence for each and every pupil here, whatever their ability or experience.

Much of my early lessons about leadership came from experiences encountered on the sports field. Sport teaches young people discipline, teamwork, and resilience, which are essential for success in academics and beyond. Regular participation in school sport teaches children the importance of physical activity as part of a healthy lifestyle. n

Woodhouse Grove

When it comes to the phrase ‘keeping it in the family,’ there could be no better business example than independent Volvo dealership Ray Chapman Motors. Director Duncan Chapman talks to Andrew Vaux about the company’s core mission and values, and outstanding growth over the years

When car enthusiast Raymond Chapman set up a small car dealership with his son Ray in Malton in 1969, little did they know that 50 years later the business would still be thriving, with the fourth generation now involved.

Indeed, when Ray left after just a couple of years to set up his own Ford dealership in Helmsley, the future could have been completely different.

But after Raymond’s death, the family came together to build an award-winning company which is now one of the most successful Volvo dealerships in the country.

Third generation Company Director Duncan Chapman explains: “In 1987, my grandfather sadly passed away, at which point my father sold his own dealership and bought the family business from his dad.

THE COMMITMENT TO OUTSTANDING LEVELS OF CUSTOMER CARE AND SATISFACTION HAS UNDOUBTEDLY PLAYED A KEY PART IN ITS ONGOING SUCCESS OVER THE YEARS

“I joined the business in 1987 at the tender age of 16. There’s no doubt that a lot has changed over the years, but we’re proud to have become the longest-serving independent Volvo dealership in the UK.”

The company’s commitment to outstanding levels of customer care and satisfaction has undoubtedly played a key part in its ongoing success over the years.

Duncan says: “We pride our business on the excellent levels of customer care which we provide. This was the culture and ethos which was established right from the very beginning and continues today with our strapline ‘treat customers the way you’d like to be treated

yourself’. If you adhere to this, then I don’t believe there’s very far you can go wrong.”

Over the years, Ray Chapman motors has enjoyed impressive growth and expansion.

Duncan explains: “In 1994, we relocated in Malton to a brand new purpose-built Volvo facility.

“We continued to grow, and in 1997 Volvo asked us to take over the dealership in York. At this point my father was getting ready to retire but I was keen to move forward so we bought it.”

Duncan adds: “We continued to progress and in 2010 Volvo, which at the time was owned by the Ford Motor Company, was sold to a Chinese organisation called Geely. Geely’s ambition was to grow rapidly from between 360,000 to 380,000 cars globally to more than 800,000, so double, within a 10-year period.

“Geely insisted that any partner wanting to go on the journey with them had to make a commitment to invest because they didn’t want a load of swanky vehicles to arrive and sit in showrooms which didn’t complement them.

“We invested in Malton in 2016 and then fast forward to 2019 and to meet the volume we were doing in terms of car sales we needed a bigger site in York. So, we sold the original showroom and built a new one on a three-acre site.”

“We made all the necessary investments, we were doing the best that we could, and Volvo told us there were a couple of dealerships in the country which hadn’t invested, and they needed to bring the transitional period to a close and Bradford and Huddersfield were available.

“So, we bought the Clive Brook dealership. Both sites needed a complete revamp which involved a massive investment.”

Duncan adds: “We’ve made a few changes at Bradford and believe we’ve got a very

strong team there now to take us forward into the future. Likewise, at Huddersfield.

But we still need to grow the team and we’re looking for professional people to come and join us, preferably with industry background but it’s not essential. In addition, we’re looking for experienced vehicle technicians.”

THE OVERARCHING FACTOR IN ITS SUCCESS IS THE FOCUS ON FAMILY

With the dealership’s exceptional levels of customer care, and its ongoing growth, it is no surprise that it has won several awards over the years, the most recent being National Volvo Retailer of the Year 2020, 2021 and 2022. At the beginning of 2023, Ray Chapman Motors also received the Feefo Platinum Trusted Service award, which recognises the delivery of consistently excellent service as rated by real customers.

But the overarching factor in its success is the focus on family.

Duncan concludes: “We’re proud to be a family business. I’m the third generation and my son Nathan, who’s our Sales Director, came in five-and-a-half years ago as the fourth generation. My wife looks after our HR and my sister works part-time sorting our IT.

“We invest in and train our people, and we want them all to be part of the overall family.” n

raychampanmotors.co.uk

In three simple steps let’s look at where you started, where you are now and where you are going.

Step one – Why have you set your goals in the first place?

It’s all too familiar. At the start of a new tax year in April, full of enthusiasm, you set your goals only to realise months later they are not taking the shape you imagined.

This step is to spur you back into action. Was your aim to make your money work harder for you? Are you planning for retirement or another significant life event?

Step two – Can you achieve your goals on your own or should you bring someone in to help?

Life can be hard to balance sometimes and with many competing responsibilities, your personal finances might not be at the forefront of your agenda.

Speaking to a Financial Planner can help with the practical side of putting your plans into action and helping you establish what really matters.

Step three – Plan, avoid any ‘traps’ and take advantage of what is available to you.

ACHIEVING YOUR FINANCIAL GOALS

Investec Wealth & Investment (UK) is a leading provider of wealth management. Chartered Financial Planner Ellie Dickinson gives her advice on how to check if you’re on track to achieve your financial goals

Have you considered how to position your finances in the 2024/2025 tax year? Planning ahead to avoid any common traps and taking advantage of the available allowances, thresholds and reliefs can save you thousands of pounds. As can long-term financial life-planning.

Common traps

Do you earn over £100k? Watch out for the ‘60 per cent tax trap’. Those earning between £100,000 and £125,140 per annum will see tapering of their Personal Allowance resulting in a 60 per cent effective tax rate. This can be potentially avoided by making pension contributions and charitable donations.

PLANNING

AHEAD TO AVOID ANY COMMON TRAPS AND TAKING ADVANTAGE OF THE AVAILABLE ALLOWANCES, THRESHOLDS AND RELIEFS CAN SAVE YOU THOUSANDS OF POUNDS

Since April 2024 there is an increased threshold for high income child benefit charge (HICBC), now tapered from £60,000 per annum. The rate at which HICBC is charged has been halved so that child benefit is not fully withdrawn until individuals have an income of at least £80,000. However, pension contributions, salary sacrificing or charitable donations can help you minimise or even fully avoid this charge.

Watch out for the halved capital gains tax (CGT) annual exempt amount (from £6,000 to £3,000 ). This will inevitably force many investors to become aware of their reporting obligations.

What’s available and what’s next?

There are many effective financial planning strategies that can help you make the most out of your money and reduce the impact of taxation, whether that’s throughout your lifetime or passing on wealth to future generations. Speaking to a Financial Planner can help you understand how to best approach this, based on your individual circumstances. Here’s a reminder of what is available to you in the 2024/2025 tax year:

CGT annual exempt amount

£3,000

Dividend allowance

£500

ISA allowance

£20,000

JISA allowance

£9,000

Pension annual allowance

Up to £60,000 plus available carry forward

Gifts

Varying amounts depending on your relationship to the person you are gifting to and the occasion.

With the Autumn Budget scheduled for 30th October 2024, now is a good time to review your wider financial circumstances. n For a no-obligation initial chat contact: Ellie.Dickinson@investecwin.co.uk.

Ellie Dickinson FPFS Chartered Financial Planner Leeds Office 0113 245 4488 ellie.dickinson@investecwin.co.uk investecwin.co.uk

LIVE FOR TODAY… PLAN FOR TOMORROW

The experts at Two10 Investment Services explain how you can achieve a balance of present desires and future goals

“Iwant it all, I want it all and I want it now,” sang Freddie Mercury in the Queen hit. But how realistic was Freddie being? Can you have it all now without consequences? For the vast majority of us the answer is sadly no. However, achieving a balance between enjoying the present and planning for the future, is something we can all do.

Help is at hand too in the shape of Two10 Investment Services, based in Longridge. Its financial advisors, recently accredited with Top Advisor status in the latest VouchedFor listings, are adept at helping you navigate the balance between present desires and future goals. The Two10 team will help you identify what is important to you at the present time, where you want to be financially in the longer term and the risks involved in order to achieve that plan.

The process starts with an assessment of your income, expenses, savings and investments. Identifying financial baselines

for necessary expenses (mortgage, utilities, food) and discretionary spending (holidays, socialising, hobbies) will determine how much you may have available for saving and investing from your income. Describing and imagining what your retirement might look like and when, will lead you to consider the sort of home you might want, the travel you may be excited to embark upon, the financial help you may want to give your family and the income in retirement you will need to fund this. The Two10 team uses sophisticated financial modelling software to build a savings and investment plan that will inform your decision making. Two10 is of particular relevance to clients who may not already have a substantial investment base. Its model portfolios work efficiently and effectively with clients who can make regular contributions from earned income.

Of course, there are risks and unknowns in all of this. Each client’s future health and care needs, changes in taxation and

regulatory regimes, the certainty of a state pension and geopolitical factors which impact on the investment landscape all need to be considered. As does the client’s appetite for risk in any investment portfolio. The Two10 team considers all of this in its recommendations to clients.

It is never too early to start considering these factors. Circumstances change. Opportunities arise. A sound financial plan will help keep you on track for the financial future you envisage.

But back to Freddie – while planning for the future is essential, it’s equally important to enjoy the present. Financial competence involves making mindful choices that allow for enjoyment without compromising future security. Two10 can help here by identifying with you some key considerations. When spending in the present, it is important to make conscious decisions that align with your values and priorities. Balancing indulgence with restraint will ensure your hard-earned income is not frittered away. Having experiences rather than things will give you and your family memories that last longer than the latest ‘stuff’. This is part of the Two10 ethos. To ensure its clients are well enough informed to enjoy their lives and their incomes now, without jeopardising their futures.

Perhaps you might be able to have it all now! n

To book a free initial consultation please contact us on 01772 970470 or info@two10investmentservices.co.uk

Risk warning : Investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount invested.

Two10 Investment Services Ltd

8 Berry Lane, Longridge Preston PR3 3JA 01772 970470

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

ELECTRIC GEM

The new BMW iX2 XDrive30 is a joy to drive. Paul Agnew puts the all-electric car through its paces. Photography: Roger Moore

In BMW we trust. With total justification.

For BMW is a luxury automobile manufacturer with a global reputation dating back almost a century.

A true driving force for high-end, topquality vehicles – reliable yet super cool, comfortable yet super sporty, practical yet super appealing.

So when you are thinking of ‘going electric’ why look anywhere else?

Take the fabulous new BMW iX2 XDrive30, an all-electric car designed and built for today, but one that’s definitely here for the future and beyond.

Trust me, it’s a gem.

There are, of course, a range of reasons why everyone should drive electric cars. Much cheaper to run with huge environmental benefits and studies emphasising that they are safer and more dependable, with better technology than the equivalent combustion engine vehicle.

They have, for example, far fewer moving parts. That means there is less to go wrong. The motor, for example, has one moving part –the shaft. This one component compares with around 2000 in a combustion car.

Therefore, it would seem that the only issue on whether to upgrade to all-electric centres around ‘range’.

IF YOU VALUE

LUXURY, PERFORMANCE AND PRESTIGE THEN A BMW IS THE RIGHT FIT FOR YOU

There are undeniable anxieties – and myths – concerning range, so perhaps now is the time to allay those concerns with a few simple statistics.

The BMW iX2 XDrive30 is not only a super car to drive, attractive on the eye, extremely comfortable, quietly efficient and packed with every gadget imaginable, it is also a car capable of delivering an impressive 267 miles of travel ‘range’.

And as the average mileage for a driver in the UK is just over 100 miles a week – then this is surely a case of doubts erased and nerves settled. Not to mention that you can ‘charge’ the battery from 10 per cent to 80 per cent in under half-an-hour.

Let’s move on.

Compiling these reviews has left me convinced on the importance of taking a test drive; your personal opportunity to see, feel and judge for yourself.

My BMW iX2 XDrive30 companion for such a ‘test’ came in striking Fire Red with a smart twin-colour interior of Alcantara Veganza, 20” bicolour double-spoke style alloy wheels and a Harmen Carden sound system. An excellent first impression.

There was much to admire, but I particularly liked the centre console which was situated at the perfect elevation and contained several key features including the gear level for which you require only one finger to activate.

As for the drive itself: effortless. The feeling of comfort is immediately apparent, this is a car built for journeys long and short.

You can expect DAB Radio, BMW

TeleServices, High-Gloss Shadowline Exterior

Trim Luxury Instrument Panel, Alarm System, Sport Leather Steering Wheel, Sport Seats (heated) Parking Assistant, Tyre Repair Kit, Child seat i-Size attachment for front passenger, BMW IconicSounds Electric and Adaptive Suspension.

Need you ask?

The new BMW iX2 xDrive30 combines all-electric driving enjoyment with plenty of space and a striking, modern design.

Yes it’s powerful (0-62mph in a staggering 5.6 seconds) and elegant, but it’s a whole lot of fun too – simple to handle, delivering a relaxing drive, a real mix of everything we’ve come to expect from BMW.

Make no mistake, this is a premium SUV with no shortage of frills, inside and out, along with every conceivable basic essential such as

AS FOR THE DRIVE ITSELF: EFFORTLESS. THE FEELING OF COMFORT IS IMMEDIATELY APPARENT, THIS IS A CAR BUILT FOR JOURNEYS LONG AND SHORT

cupholders and USB charging ports.

A sharply-sloping rear roofline certainly marks it out as being one of if not the most stylish and dramatic-looking electric SUVs currently out there.

Inside, the cabin has a really modern vibe and the high-tech is all around. A substantial, wide and curved layout for the infotainment screen is right at its heart and the driver’s instruments are hugely responsive. The overall layout is ultra user friendly, easy to navigate with on-screen icons that are large and easy to press.

If you value luxury, performance and prestige then a BMW is the right fit for you.

And finally, if you are a business user, it is worth noting that your electric purchase is 100 per cent tax deductible. For more information, please contact Lisa Fothergill,

you

getting up

lloydcolnebmw.co.uk

@lloydcolnebmw

Lloyd Colne’s business development manager. So, if

are also seeking to move forward with an all-electric car then it is well worth

close with a BMW iX2 XDrive30. n

Lloyd Colne BMW Crown Way, Colne BB8 9NP 01282 720720

DUSSELDORF TO THE DALES: A CULINARY ODYSSEY

Japanese heritage and German upbringing meets farming childhood in the Lune Valley. It was a match ordained in the culinary constellations. Nina Matsunaga and James Ratcliffe, owners of The Black Bull in Sedbergh, talk Kate Bowyer through the international journey that culminated in their deep love of the Dales landscape and their inspiration from the best local ingredients to be found here

With its striking white plaster and decorative black beamed woodwork, Sedbergh’s 17th-century Black Bull

coaching inn is now familiar to viewers from Nina’s recent appearance on the BBC’s Great British Menu – more on that later.

Inside, subtle international influences give a contemporary lift to the warmly traditional. Mocha (Japanese rice cakes) sit alongside Barbondale pheasant and Lakeland venison,

with, I hear, a Japanese soaking tub in one of the guest bedrooms.

So how did locally sourced and internationally inspired meet in the heart of the Dales? Head Chef Nina laughs: “In Manchester, of all places!” James, co-owner and general manager, takes up the story, the couple finishing each other’s sentences with affectionate enthusiasm.

THEIR SIGNATURE MIX OF LOCALLY SOURCED DISHES INSPIRED BY THE FUSION OF DALES, JAPANESE AND GERMAN, CONTINUES TO WIN PLAUDITS

“Nina was born to Japanese parents in Dusseldorf, Germany, and moved to London to study Culinary Arts Management.”

“I’d enjoyed childhood baking, and working in kitchens during my studies, but the business intricacies side wasn’t for me!” interjects Nina.

“Heading home to Germany, I worked in a bakery, also delivering courses on baking and game cookery. But I missed England, so…”

“We met on the day before her catering interview at Manchester Met University!” continues James. “I’d grown up in Ireby and spent hours exploring the countryside, foraging with my gran, who worked for several large nearby local estates. I loved hunting and fishing, as well as mucking about on my friends’ farms. I went on to study at Manchester. My student job at Henry’s, where I became a bar leader, sparked my interest in the hospitality industry. I was also lucky enough to work for inspiring chefs and local food enthusiasts including Robert Owen Brown and John Quilter.”

Nina wasn’t heading back to Dusseldorf this time, and the two experimented in setting up for themselves. Sourcing an ex-army field kitchen in Edinburgh, they set up ‘The Moocher’, selling homemade bakes, chocolates and lemonade at farmers’ markets.

“It was hard. Then we realised the food we were cooking back home – unique combinations from both our backgrounds –was something special no one was offering the public,” says James. “So we switched to street food cooking.”

Showcasing local ingredients and wild game, passions which exemplify The Black Bull to this day, Nina and James built a reputation for signature dishes in unique taste combinations – like pigeon in karaage marinade, or rabbit fillet with homemade kimchi and local bilberries. By 2014 they were outgrowing the truck’s limited facilities.

“The huge, heavy pans were unmanageable, the ovens were just big metal boxes with no heat control,” explains Nina. “Life had also changed with the birth of our son, so we started looking for permanent premises – but not in Manchester.”

Together, Nina and James established Sedbergh’s Three Hares cafe, bakery and bistro. Nina’s baking skills soon saw them

recognised with national accolades and a listing in the Good Food Guide.

In 2016 the opportunity to revitalise The Black Bull proved irresistible. Opening after an extensive 18-month refit, their signature mix of locally sourced dishes inspired by the fusion of Dales, Japanese and German, continues to win plaudits and delight residents and visitors to ‘England’s Book Town’.

CREATING AN OLYMPICS-THEMED DESSERT TOOK ME OUT OF MY COMFORT ZONE

With 7 days a week service, 18 bedrooms, co-creating and stocking Sedbergh Soap Company ranges, three dogs, three ferrets and two Tamworth pigs, do they get any time to relax?

“We all love the outdoors, which is great motivation to get away from work and up a fell,” says James. “And we’re spoiled for choice: up the Howgills, across to the Lakes, or out on the Yorkshire Moors.”

After the nerves, upheaval and concentration of filming for the latest season of The Great British Menu, Nina, who was

recently named among the UK’s top women chefs, certainly deserved a break. “Creating an Olympics-themed dessert definitely took me out of my comfort zone,” she recalls. “It was a fantastic experience, but it was lovely to get back to my own kitchen.”

During the three months’ research, preparation and filming, Nina, a keen reader, didn’t have time to pick up anything that wasn’t a recipe book. “My ‘to read’ pile,” she nods, “is so tall, it could be mistaken for one of Sedbergh’s bookshops!” n

The Black Bull

44 Main Street, Sedbergh LA10 5BL 015396 20264

bookings@theblackbullsedbergh.co.uk theblackbullsedbergh.co.uk facebook.com/blkbullsedbergh

leisurely unhurried lunch. Our conversation revolved around the evolution of the menu and the choice of new local suppliers and regional producers, as well as a debate about the well-balanced curated wine list and drinks menu which so importantly, complements the food.

I’M

TOLD THAT SUNDAY LUNCH, THAT INCREDIBLE BRITISH INSTITUTION, REMAINS INCREDIBLY POPULAR WITH EARLY BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL

The snacks can be a meal in themselves so pacing yourself is very important – a delicious new pain au canard alongside a selection of bite size morsels really got our tastebuds tingling.

My soup was divine and so tasty served with one of their classics – truffle Lancashire hot dog. Perhaps the highlight dish for me was the Fish of the Day, an absolute classic

TO THE NEXT LEVEL…

Nestled in one of the Ribble Valley’s pretty hamlets is the multiaward winning Freemasons pub. It’s a short 20-minute trip down the A59 and well worth a visit, writes Tedd Walmsley.

Photography: Kirsten Platt

It has been far too long since I last enjoyed the culinary delights of the Freemasons at Wiswell. Unsurprisingly, I jumped at the chance to sample some of the dishes created by new head chef Matt Smith.

Before I wax lyrical about the food, and it really was excellent, I wanted to make the point on just how strong the front of house team is. There was a mix of familiar and some new faces since my last visit and coincidentally it was the first day for their new front of

house manager, Andrew Thompson. Andrew brings his wealth of experience and charisma to the Freemasons team.

A great front of house team can really elevate the whole experience and that is very much what the Freemasons is all about – an experience. Its relaxed style and strong pub vibe shouldn’t confuse you on just how good the cooking is – and so on to our lunch.

The legendary snacks were first out and the perfect start to what turned out to be a

piece of fish cookery with a smoked bacon, saffron and mussel cassoulet – I really needed another piece of bread but had to make do with a spoon!

The beef main course looked stunning on the plate as did all the dishes – the attention to detail on crockery and presentation also enhance the food to a new level, so easy on the eye and with a taste to match. Intricate potato rosti with a deep rich red wine sauce and sticky beef cheek was all perfectly cooked. This is a signature dish for a reason.

Andrew had suggested we left room for a dessert, however we were beaten! But luckily our fantastic photographer Kirsten was on hand, so she took over and I’m told, dessert was a delight!

Matt Smith and his brigade are really

cooking at a very high level based on today’s experience and as I studied the menu, the breadth on offer is still very much in evidence. The Celebration of Summer set menu will run through to the end of September and is served at lunchtime and early supper. The amazing à la carte and Ultimate Taste of the Freemasons menus are also available plus Tasting Tuesday, which I hadn’t actually seen before. I was also impressed with an excellent vegetarian menu which I would really like to try.

I’m told that Sunday lunch, that incredible British institution, remains incredibly popular with early bookings essential to secure your seat at the table.

INTRICATE POTATO ROSTI WITH A DEEP RICH RED WINE SAUCE AND STICKY BEEF CHEEK WAS ALL PERFECTLY COOKED. THIS IS A SIGNATURE DISH FOR A REASON

A programme of events and latest news are regularly updated on the website and through social media.

Comfortable in my surroundings, I reflected on some great private dining experiences we had enjoyed over the last few years, special family events, Christmas lunch with colleagues – and as guests at ‘big’ birthdays and anniversaries – even a wedding!

The options upstairs in the main restaurant are flexible yet remain intimate and there is also the alternative to eat up-close and personal in the kitchen, on Chef’s Table, which gives an opportunity to see all the brigade in action.

The Freemasons has, of course, four fantastic bedrooms just next door and I’m told more in the pipeline. For friends and family visiting the area or a special treat, they are stunning and the renowned breakfast the following morning is just fabulous!

As I walked back to the car fully replete, I promised I wouldn’t leave it so long until my next visit .

Bon appétit! n

FREEM ASONS AT WISWELL

8 Vicarage Fold, Wiswell BB7 9DF 01254 822218 freemasonsatwiswell.com

A TASTE OF THE SEA

Aplayful version of an open crab sandwich crossed with bruschetta utilising the best of British tomatoes and Yorkshire seafood. If living local to Leeds, Skipton or Wetherby I’d personally buy dressed crab from Tarbetts but any decent local fishmonger should supply fresh-picked crab meat.

WHITBY CRAB ON TOAST WITH ISLE OF WIGHT TOMATOES

(serves 4 as a starter)

Ingredients:

1/2 whole brioche loaf

(could use any artisan bread)

2 dressed Whitby crabs

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

2 tablespoons of crème fraiche

1 x punnet cherry tomatoes

(mixed colours are ideal for visual effect)

2 x whole heritage tomatoes

2 x sprigs of fresh dill

Drizzle of Yorkshire rapeseed oil

Salt and cracked black pepper to taste

Brayden Davies became Executive Chef at The Box Tree in Ilkley earlier this year. The young Australian launched his culinary career at Clarke’s, of North Beach in Perth, before moving to the UK. Here he shares a recipe featuring delicious Yorkshire seafood

Method:

1. First of all, you want to dress your cherry tomatoes. Cut them in half and dress in rapeseed oil, salt and pepper.

2. Cut your heritage tomatoes into quarters and remove the seeds, then dice the tomatoes and season (French term is concasse).

3. Place the crab meat into a bowl and dress with Worcestershire sauce and crème fraiche and season. I personally am quite heavy on fresh cracked black pepper as I just find it is so good with crab. The Worcestershire sauce helps give it a zing and the crème fraiche brings a beautiful creaminess to the crab as well as helping it hold together when plating.

4. You then want to cut your brioche loaf into chunky slices. At the restaurant we cut into rectangle fingers but this is purely based on portion sizes and making them uniform (we use the offcuts for staff bread and butter pudding). If you don’t want to waste anything then I’d just recommend taking off the crusts.

5. Alternatively, you could use any homemade/artisan bread. I just find the buttery quality of the brioche lends itself to the dish as a whole. However, I think sourdough would also be a lovely substitute.

6. Once you have removed the crust off your bread and cut it into the required shape, toast the bread in a pan with some rapeseed oil, colouring all sides of the bread. At the restaurant we colour the bread on the barbecue for a real smoky aroma.

7. Lastly you want to add your diced heritage tomatoes into the crab mix. Pile the now finished crab mix onto the toasted bread (be generous). Then place the beautifully seasoned cherry tomato halves on top of the crab and a few freshly picked dill tops. n

The Box Tree

35-37 Church Street, Ilkley LS29 9DR 01943 608484

info@theboxtree.co.uk theboxtree.co.uk

LUXURY AT LAKESIDE HOTEL

Windermere’s Langdale Chase has undergone a stunning restoration. Mark Dixon enjoyed luxury and the wow factor at the Victorian mansion turned hotel

A-ma-zing – as Craig might say in the now slightly controversial Dancing show on BBC 1. Talking of which, as you walk through the spectacular rooms of the Langdale Chase hotel it’s easy to imagine couples waltzing around during parties thrown by the house’s original owner Edna Howarth.

In 1890 Mr Howarth, a businessman from Manchester, discovered and bought the site with the intention of building a small retreat. Unfortunately, he died before building had begun, and his widow, Mrs Edna Howarth, decided to erect a larger house as her permanent residence and to call it Langdale Chase.

The house took five years to complete, at a cost of £32,000. It had the proud distinction of being the first residence in Windermere to have electricity installed. Edna lived there from 1894 to 1914 with a staff of sixteen. During that time many parties were held,

along with tennis and croquet tournaments. After Edna’s death the house was sold twice and opened as a hotel in 1930.

The house has also featured in popular culture, with its outstanding location making it the natural choice for the classic English country house in Alfred Hitchcock’s ‘The Paradine Case’ starring Gregory Peck, and the BBC drama ‘Across the Lake’ starring Anthony Hopkins, depicting the last 60 days of Donald Campbell’s life.

THE HOTEL IS WORTHY OF ITS FIVE STARS FROM ALL PERSPECTIVES. SERVICE, OUTSTANDING. FACILITIES, LUXURIOUS. AND FOOD, DELICIOUS

A hundred years later Daniel Thwaites, the long established brewer and hotelier, who also owns the Red Lion, the Listers Arms and the Golden Lion familiar to Dales readers, purchased the hotel and promptly closed it for 18 months to sensitively refurbish it. The results are spectacular.

The Lake is the constant wow factor from most of the common areas, many of

the sumptuous bedrooms and suites and the restful grounds and gardens. Four and a half acres slope to the lake. They were planned and laid out by Thomas Mawson, a landscape architect of international distinction who was also responsible for the Palace of Peace Gardens in the Hague.

The hotel is worthy of its five stars from all perspectives. Service, outstanding. Facilities, luxurious. And food, delicious.

The staff were super friendly and attentive but knew exactly when to appear or retreat allowing us to enjoy our own company, a sure sign of a first-class establishment. We were met with a soothing smile ushering us in to relax. And the glass of bubbly was well received. Its grand interiors, complete with minstrels’ galleries, elaborately carved oak panelling and stained glass manage to be opulent and yet winningly informal. There’s a cinema with daily screenings and complimentary popcorn.

ITS GRAND INTERIORS, COMPLETE WITH MINSTRELS’ GALLERIES, ELABORATELY CARVED OAK PANELLING AND STAINED GLASS MANAGE TO BE OPULENT AND YET WINNINGLY INFORMAL

Our room Langdale Pikes occupied a corner position overlooking the Lake. It’s one of the loveliest rooms I’ve ever stayed in. This beautiful suite has an octagonal turret lounge to sit quietly to enjoy the incredible scenery while double doors lead out onto a balcony to allow you to get closer to the outdoors. We sat in the comfy armchairs using the high-powered binoculars to look at unrestricted views across the majesty

was previously the master bedroom.

The bed was comfy and the sheets sheer luxury. The bathroom was well proportioned and a separate toilet is always a good idea. The Bath House supplied toiletries added class to the effect. From the comfort of a huge slipper bath looking out over the distant fells was the perfect place to allow all worries to soak away.

Heading up a two AA Rosette-awarded restaurant housed in the main building with floor to ceiling windows, Executive Chef Michael Cole has crafted a menu centred around classic British cuisine, inspired by the Lake District and the surrounding coastline. Michael with 27 years of experience – including positions

internationally with Starwood Hotels –brings a wealth of culinary knowledge to Langdale Chase.

Our culinary delight commenced with afternoon tea worthy of this setting. In a nod to ‘Swallows and Amazons’, the menu pays tribute to the whimsical tales from the book. To mark the passages of time between adventures, the children indulge in tea drinking (lots of it) and eating any tasty morsel they can scavenge.

Favourites included lobster roll and potted shrimps. And Gooseberry choux and Titty’s marmalade tea loaf.

Given we were eating our evening meal four hours later we ate our savouries and put most of the fancies into a doggy bag. We’d earlier worked up an appetite from hiring kayaks on the lake and worked off afternoon tea by a stroll along the lakeshore.

Returning to the restaurant we decided to pursue a seafood theme. Orkney scallop and Cornish crab salad followed by Atlantic wild halibut (curried mussels, gram lentils, coconut) and Dover sole (cauliflower, Morecambe brown shrimp, grapes) all washed down by Gavi di Gavi and a Kiwi Pinot noir.

The following morning, we woke early and managed a quick hike to the top of Lingmoor Fell allowing us to return for a deserved and filling breakfast.

Edna, Daniel Thwaites and nature have really done a remarkable job. You really should visit! n

of Windermere. The Langdale Pikes themselves frame what

FARM-FRESH TAKE ON FINE DINING

Eight at Gazegill’s delicious mix of sustainable farming, foraging and fine dining is making it the must-visit destination for culinary excellence. Kate Bowyer takes a mouth-watering tour through their seasonal evening tasting menu

If you think you’ve experienced farm to fork, think again. At Eight at Gazegill, set in rolling countryside outside Gisburn, just 20 minutes from Clitheroe, you can literally trace the footsteps bringing each home-grown, picked, foraged and raised element of your meal to the restaurant door. Then watch award-winning chef patron, Doug Crampton, work his culinary magic in the open kitchen, unashamedly willing every tempting dish to your table.

“There are over 80 species of grasses, plants, herbs and wildflowers growing on the farm, giving Doug a far wider and more imaginative palate of flavours than most chefs have access to. Foraging on these makes meat from our organic, outdoor-raised, rare-breed pigs and Shorthorn cattle more tender, with far greater depth of flavour. We use every piece of the animal, too. It’s sustainable, respectful and gives greater scope to be creative,” explains restaurant manager Kimberley Talbot, who worked at Northcote, where she first met Doug during one of the renowned ‘Obsession’ food festivals.

Family friendly with an area of free-ranging animals, raw milk soft-serve ice cream and children’s play area, Gazegill is a popular destination for adults and children alike, but evening offerings are for fine dining and an

adult-only environment.

Kim adds: “Friday and Saturday evening service is 6.30pm to 8.30pm, and we’d love for couples to think of this as their weekend haven of adult time, with no kids, no work stress and no worries – your table is yours throughout.

THERE ARE OVER 80 SPECIES OF GRASSES, PLANTS, HERBS AND WILDFLOWERS GROWING ON THE FARM, GIVING DOUG A FAR WIDER AND MORE IMAGINATIVE PALATE OF FLAVOURS

“So, whether you’re a romantic couple, with friends or in a group, you can take your time, luxuriate, taste, drink, chat and catch-up. Pre-booking ensures we source and cook exactly enough – no waste – and we can accommodate dietary requirements. I think Friday nights are becoming increasingly popular because it’s a fantastic way to bookend the working week, unwind and refresh, ready for a great weekend. We’ve deliberately kept these evenings to adultsonly for this reason.”

At other times there’s plenty to delight younger customers. From Gazegill’s delicious ice cream and a dedicated children’s menu to free roaming piglets, they’re certainly not missing out.

There’s also the luxurious, seasonallyresponsive, five-course Taste of Gazegill exceptional dining experience, giving the entire farming, kitchen and service teams the chance to finesse and extend, with a tempting Sunday lunch or brunch.

So, what has Kim offered me this evening on the adults-only, fine-dining menu?

My signature wood-roasted Gazegill beef, rich in smoky tones, is dressed with woodland mushrooms still fresh from picking. Two-timing with the vegetarian menu, the same roasting produces the most satisfying and moreish cauliflower I have ever eaten, complemented with artichoke barley risotto and charred corn.

This is after I was regretfully parted from starters, which have already become stars in their own right. First is the deceptively innocuous, barbecue carrot, cooked and wood-fire finished in its own juices for an endorphin-hit sweet wallop, which could convert the most committed vegetable-phobe.

Then there’s the home-cured chipolatas, glazed with honey from beehives I could see

across the field, accompanied by seasonally foraged surprises. A new taste sensation of wild fennel and hogweed. The menu says they are to share, but not a chance, they’re incredible!

In other dishes, fish and shellfish are sourced from Morecambe Bay, along with samphire and edible seaweed in season. Just as appealing to the eye as the tastebuds, the butter, which I mop to extinction with home-made potato flat bread, is decorated with edible flowers, growing just outside the window. Desserts of home-churned raw

THE BUTTER, WHICH I MOP TO EXTINCTION WITH HOME-MADE POTATO FLAT BREAD, IS DECORATED WITH EDIBLE FLOWERS, GROWING JUST OUTSIDE

milk ice-cream and sheep’s-milk yogurt mousse, combined with local cherries and strawberries, bear a delicate lace mantle of frothy, meadowsweet blossoms. No wonder reservations, repeat bookings and word-ofmouth are multiplying fast.

Furthering the farm’s impressive sustainability credentials, Gazegill is solely (and uniquely in the hospitality sector) powered off-grid by solar and wind energy. Come awards season, I am sure Eight at Gazegill will be demanding space on the mantelpiece to swell prestigious accolades already awarded, including Northern Champion Best Local Food and Drink. I’m certainly giving this gem ten ‘carrots’! n

Eight at Gazegill

Lower Gazegill Farm, Dancer Lane Rimington, Clitheroe BB7 4EE 01200 445519

reservations@eightatgazegill.co.uk

eightatgazegill.co.uk

CHEESE WITH EVERYTHING

Cheese lovers are in for a special treat with a Yorkshire Dales festival aimed especially (but not exclusively) at them. Lucy Bale takes a look at what to expect from the event, which takes place between 11th October and 14th October

The Yorkshire Dales Cheese Festival is back for its eighth year, celebrating not only the finest cheese the Dales has to offer but the other local fare too. Over the years, the festival has evolved to what it is today. Not your traditional one stop location festival, but spread out across the Dales hosted by local businesses – a treasure hunt of the best produce Yorkshire has to offer!

The ethos of the Yorkshire Dales Cheese Festival is to shout loud and proud about the special qualities of the Dales, promoting local produce and encouraging local businesses to collaborate to deliver a weekend of exciting events. In true ‘farm to fork’ style, you’ll have a chance to meet the makers, chefs and shopkeepers behind the event.

Think outside of the box from the traditional cheddar and chutney on a cracker – there’s

THINK

OUTSIDE OF THE BOX FROM THE TRADITIONAL CHEDDAR AND CHUTNEY ON A CRACKER – THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE ACROSS THE VARIETY OF EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE WEEKEND!

something for everyone across the variety of events throughout the weekend! One for the adrenaline junkies, if you fancy pairing your cheese board with a side of traversing then be sure not to miss the ‘Cheese and Climb’ at How Stean Gorge on the 13th October. For the more traditional among you, get yourself down to Elsworth at the Mill in Skipton on the 12th October for an evening of Yorkshire wine and cheese pairing, promising to celebrate five courses of specialist Yorkshire cheeses. If exploring the Dales through its dairy delights doesn’t quite sound like your thing, then fear not! Spirit of Masham Distillery has your back if you prefer a G&T over a wedge of brie, providing a gin experience where you can learn the art of distilling your very own gin. A skill not enough of us know about if you ask me!

Whether you fancy a hike or a cycle in between cheese pit stops, the festival is the perfect excuse to get well acquainted with the Yorkshire Dales, making it your destination for the weekend!

Keep an eye out on Facebook for event and participant details, or you can find the ‘A Taste of the Dales’ food and drink map on the Yorkshire Dales National Park website. Perfect for those of you who want to plan a strict itinerary to fit in as many stops as possible over the 4 day event. n

yorkshiredales.org.uk /events/tag/cheese-festival-events/list/

A WINE & WHISKY JOURNEY

With thousands of products to choose from the Skipton-based Wright Wine Company has something for every palate. Managing Director Julian Kaye answers questions from Joe Varley about the many delights on offer

Why is the Wright Wine Company popular with customers?

We were established in 1982 and the current team have a combined 185 years of experience working here, so we have a strong rapport with our customers. Katie and Les who run the shop are just so friendly, our ethos is to break down the snobbery sometimes associated with the wine trade. We love taking people on a journey. The team have visited so many wine producing countries and their enthusiasm is infectious. Les has visited Georgia and Armenia more times than you can imagine, so be prepared to have your eyes opened to Saperavi.

How do you cater for all customers’ budgets?

We are very lucky to have one of the largest stock holdings in the North, with over 5,500 products, we like to be able to offer choice! We can sell you the finest Burgundy you could imagine, but at the same time we are realistic so our mixed cases, available for local delivery, start at £85. That’s just over £7 a bottle for good drinking wine sourced by ourselves.

How has the shop grown in size and prominence since its inception?

When I first came here in 1991, we had just one room packed with wine and whisky. Over the years we have expanded to seven rooms. Now we have three rooms of wine, including a dedicated Burgundy room, a spirit room, two rooms of whisky and even a brandy room.

WE ARE VERY LUCKY TO HAVE ONE OF THE LARGEST STOCK HOLDINGS IN THE NORTH, WITH OVER 5,500 PRODUCTS, WE LIKE TO BE ABLE TO OFFER CHOICE

You stock a lot of whisky – what should whisky fans look out for other than the more familiar Scotch whiskies?

We took the bold decision 25 years ago to create two rooms stocked with whisky – there are a thousand to choose from! Scotland is well covered, in particular Islay (I have been visiting Islay every year since I was 10), and then we can take you anywhere in the world. We have a walk-in tasting cupboard with about 300 open bottles to help you make your decision. Our tasting nights are great fun, you

Photography: Sarah Valentine

have to sign up to our newsletter or follow us on social media to find out about them.

Do you supply to local restaurants?

Customers see the shop and think that’s all we do, in fact it’s the other way around – we are predominantly a wholesale merchant supplying the restaurant and pub trade throughout Yorkshire, Lancashire and the Lakes. We supply 13 Michelin starred establishments, including surprisingly two in Norfolk. This is one of the reasons why we have such a comprehensive selection.

IF YOU LOVE WINE, SPIRITS OR WHISKY, YOU REALLY NEED TO COME AND VISIT – WE ARE LIKE A LIBRARY OF ALL THINGS VENOUS

If a wine/spirit lover has never been to your shop, what are the main reasons for them to do so?

If you love wine, spirits or whisky, you really need to come and visit – we are like a library of all things vinous. My parents are Antiquarian Book dealers so that old book shop feel of exploring the nooks and crannies appeals to my old time values. If you are just getting into wine or whisky, we can help to guide you and take you on a journey.

I was told you love stocking clients’ cellars, tell me about this?

I get asked this all the time, lots of our clients are building wine rooms! It’s great fun providing a cellar plan for drinking over a number of years based on what style of wines they like. Traditionally a lot of people have

relied on the more

southern merchants to do this, but we are quite good at it!

Do you often get asked for anniversary bottles? All the time! So much so I set up a separate e-commerce site called Vintage Drinks Online –vintagedrinksonline.co.uk

It’s really simple to use and has some great gems for any wine or spirit lover from

virtually every year going back to 1910. We only offer wines that are fit for purpose and that are still drinking well. Some of our competitors will offer wines that are way too old, so ours is a wonderfully chosen selection for that special occasion or special person in your life! n

The Wright Wine Company

The Old Smithy Raikes Road, Skipton BD23 1NP 01756 700886

wineandwhisky.co.uk

vintagedrinksonline.co.uk

Skipton

famous

CHINESE CLASSICS WITH A TWIST

With outstanding food and a sophisticated setting Yu Copster Green provides a memorable dining experience. Tedd Walmsley looks at what makes the restaurant so special

The Ribble Valley has a fantastic reputation for food and drink –from Michelin stars to awardwinning Gastro pubs. The area has the lot. One of the most impressive is Yu Copster Green which has created the very best modern Chinese cuisine in the whole of Lancashire in my humble view.

Yu is situated conveniently on the A59 just a short 30 minute drive from Skipton. In 2024 they are celebrating 20 glorious years here in the valley and there are a host of special events and collaborations to look out for on their social media pages.

Eating at Yu is a memorable experience from the outset, the interior of the restaurant is sensuous and has a sophisticated vibe. Pre-drinks are served by a fun loving experienced group of mixologists and signature cocktails are very much part of the whole experience. Start your night with a ‘midnight orchid’ or a ‘tigers eye’. Peruse the

menu and settle back whilst taking in the atmosphere of this elegant up-market eatery.

The reason for making the trip, of course, is the food and this is cooked to perfection by head chef Victor Yu and his talented brigade

MAKE NO MISTAKE THIS IS NOT AN ORDINARY CHINESE MENU. THERE ARE A HOST OF CLASSICS YOU WILL RECOGNISE FROM ACROSS THE GLOBE

of wok chefs. Service is also exemplary and the front of house team are professional, discreet and very knowledgeable about the food and wine. They will help create the

perfect pairing. Make no mistake this is not an ordinary Chinese menu. There are a host of classics you will recognise from across the globe and plenty of local favourites which reference the legend that is Charlie Yu, Victor’s dad, with whom all of this started 20 years ago.

The modern twist of classic Chinese cuisine can be seen both in the ingredients and in the techniques used: wagyu beef and blackened cod sit alongside the very best char sui pork and soft shell crab. It is an incredible menu and one to savour every mouthful.

This is one of my favourite places to relax and enjoy an unhurried dinner with friends and family and I would urge you to jump in the car and make the short trip. You will receive the warmest of welcomes and enjoy a memorable evening in the Ribble Valley. n

Yu Copster Green

500 Longsight Road

Copster Green, Blackburn BB1 9EU

01254 240665

yucopstergreen.co.uk

yu_copstergreen

A TASTE OF BRAZIL

A little bit of Rio can be found in Austwick where Mike Stobart is a passionate craftsman of artisan coffee and specialty teas. Matt Rayson finds out about his life-changing trip to Brazil – and the shock diagnosis that turned his life upside down

Photography: Marchello74/Shutterstock.com

When London cocktail barman Mike Stobart left England to teach in Brazil he was about to discover a passion that would change the course of his career.

His time in Rio de Janeiro imbued him with a love of coffee which he has used to create a successful business in the Yorkshire Dales.

Mike, who had worked at The Criterion Brasserie in Piccadilly Circus, followed by the The Royal Horseguards Hotel, set off for Brazil in his early 20s with a fellow barman.

“Although travel to South America has become more commonplace, for me at the time, it was pretty adventurous and exotic,” he said. “I lived in Rio for two years and taught English as a foreign language. Brazil is the world’s largest producer of coffee and they drink tons of it! Coffee is drunk everywhere from shops to offices to classrooms. It’s a bit like tea being offered in England except the coffee is almost a handshake and is offered gratis – everywhere. I soon became hooked on it and, for me, Brazil and coffee are inseparable.”

Inspired by his time there Mike returned to the United Kingdom with the intention of awakening an interest in ‘real’ coffee. He spent some years alongside baristas and merchants, honing his skill for a distinct style of product, and he set up his own coffee shop in Brighton.

But soon afterwards his life was turned upside down. He was diagnosed with a rare eye condition characterised by the degeneration of the retina and loss of both peripheral and low-light vision.

He said: “I was diagnosed with my sight condition called retinitis pigmentosa, and certified ‘Severely sight impaired/Blind’, in 2013. I was immediately told that I could no longer drive – not even home from the clinic. The whole experience was a huge shock.”

Reeling from the diagnosis and ultimately

BUT SOON AFTERWARDS HIS LIFE WAS TURNED UPSIDE DOWN. HE WAS DIAGNOSED WITH A RARE EYE CONDITION CHARACTERISED BY THE DEGENERATION OF THE RETINA AND LOSS OF BOTH PERIPHERAL AND LOW-LIGHT VISION

the loss of his driving licence, Mike began to focus on establishing BlindMan Coffee. Born in Bradford and already familiar with the Yorkshire Dales he moved back to the area in 2019 and his Auswick-based business went live in July 2021.

“I don’t dwell on my sight condition because to dwell on it could prevent me from getting past it, or at least moving forward with it,” he said. “It would have been easy to just stop everything and do nothing but that is not in my nature. I don’t want sympathy or my brand to be thought of as a charity brand. I want BlindMan Coffee to be seen as the premium coffee brand it is. I purposely avoid medical type vocabulary such as ‘diagnosis’ and ‘disease’ as they could easily be off-putting. I named my company because I wanted my new-found status to give me something back in return for the things it had taken. It was an experiment but the name is unusual and memorable – both of which are really helpful when trying to stand out.”

Shortly after moving to the Dales Mike adopted his dog Flash from the RSPCA.

“Although he is not officially a ‘support’

dog he has offered a lot of support as well as companionship over the years we have been together,” he said. “For example, when we approach steps or rough ground, he will stop sniffing around and come to my side where I hold the handle on his harness. He stays there, walking slowly next to me. He’s never been trained to do this – I suspect he just senses danger. When we are out and about he will come back and stick next to me when other people approach. He’s a fabulous boy.”

An unexpected effect of his eye condition is that Mike feels he has benefitted from an enhancement of his other senses.

“Many people around me seem to regularly say their senses of smell and taste

have worsened with age. This made me realise that for me, it’s gone the other way,” he says. “I can taste and smell even really small amounts of ingredients that are in food, for example. I can smell and taste all sorts of things that others can’t. This ability is excellent in my business because I can distinguish nuances in my coffee which allows others to detect, describe and appreciate them.”

I was able to test his expertise for myself when Mike prepared a cup of his full-bodied 100 per cent Arabica Blend No3 for me in his Austwick studio.

He explained that freshness is absolutely paramount to his ethos and that every order of coffee is freshly roasted for each customer.

In fact, the exact roasting date is found on every label.

I watched him carefully measure out and weigh the beans before putting them through his espresso machine to produce a shot of espresso, the likes of which I have not experienced before. I noted hints of milk chocolate and almonds.

On top was a creamy, rich ‘crema’, and complemented by the silky steamed milk,

Mike produced a super smooth and even opulent cup of coffee befitting the best restaurant or coffee shop.

In fact, at the end of an excellent meal,

I CAN SMELL AND TASTE ALL SORTS OF THINGS THAT OTHERS CAN’T. THIS ABILITY IS EXCELLENT IN MY BUSINESS BECAUSE I CAN DISTINGUISH NUANCES IN MY COFFEE

this is the exact coffee I would want to be served, as indeed it is, overlooking the serenity of The Forest of Bowland at the national award-winning cheese shop, The Courtyard Dairy.

Blindman Coffee is also served next-door at the new Rind pizza restaurant, Austwick, as well as at the Ingleborough Estates’ Old Sawmill Café, Clapham, and is sold at The Gamecock Inn, in Austwick village itself.

Mike offers a wide selection of coffees whether it’s a single-origin bean such as Monsoon Malabar, Sumatra Lintong, Rwanda or Brazil, one of the highly sought-after Swiss Water Decafs, or expertly roasted blends.

Brazil is renowned for its production of specialist-grade, top-quality Arabica coffees and, not surprisingly, Mike includes Brazil Santos in his range of superb-quality single origins.

He also offers an extensive selection of teas, ranging from single estate and a variety of blended black teas, such as English breakfast blend, Earl Grey, and Blue Lady, to the zingy and refreshing fruit infusions – Passionfruit & Orange or Strawberry & Kiwi, to name but a few. n

and the Yorkshire Dales

Yorkshire and the enchanting Yorkshire Dales is steeped in history, character, and natural beauty... with its charming villages, bustling market towns, and breathtaking landscapes. Explore the openness of the Yorkshire Dales, where rolling hills create a picturesque backdrop for outdoor adventures. Hike along scenic trails that criss-cross the countryside, taking in panoramic views of lush valleys and meandering rivers. Or for a more sophisticated break, immerse yourself in the towns and cities with rich cultural heritage, from the historic city of York with its ancient walls and majestic cathedral to the quaint towns of Harrogate and Skipton.

The Beverley Arms, Beverley beverleyarms.co.uk

The Lister Arms, Malham listerarms.co.uk

The Red Lion, Burnsall redlion.co.uk

The Judge’s Lodging, York judgeslodgingyork.co.uk

danielthwaites.co.uk

Middletons Hotel middletonsyork.co.uk

The Golden Lion, Settle goldenlionsettle.co.uk

The Lister Arms, Malham

The Golden Lion, Settle

The Red Lion, Burnsall

The Beverley Arms, Beverley Middletons, York

The Judge’s Lodging, York

If you’re a lifelong football fan, you might well be a listener to BBC 5 Live Monday Night Club. Over the last five years or so it’s become a real ‘appointment to listen’ for me and I guess many of the 4.8 million other 5 Live weekly listeners. I’m not sure I have any ‘appointments to view’ left these days.

Anyway, you’ll recognise the dulcet Mancunian tones of host (and increasingly omnipresent on the Beeb these days) Mark ‘Chappers’ Chapman and the Norfolk burr of former Blackburn striker Chris Sutton. And the third member of the regular panel is certainly the most erudite, the most informed and to be perfectly honest the reason I tune in so religiously. He’s introduced each week as from the New York Times, but Rory Smith belies that with a warm and intelligent Yorkshire via Cambridge University accent.

Born in Harrogate and brought up in Collingham, Rory was educated at Leeds Grammar School and went on to read Classics at Cambridge. I start to understand why he sounds so intelligent.

After a year in Bolivia learning Spanish and working in newspapers Rory decided that’s where his future career lay (journalism not Bolivia) and after graduating went to

ONE OF THE BEST VOICES ON SPORT

Sports journalist, broadcaster and author Rory Smith talks to Mark Dixon about his outstanding career and his life in Yorkshire

Photography: Stefan Constantin

Photography: New York Times

work for the Mirror group. Learning his journalistic trade in regional newspapers, he requested to finish his general training with a sports placement, and he hasn’t looked back.

Stints at The Daily Telegraph, The Independent and then a longer one at The Times (of London) followed where Rory was able to develop his craft whilst growing his network of football contacts initially in the northwest and then nationally and internationally. He credits his age as the reason he gained from the old school of proper journalistic training as newspapers were still investing, coupled with his ability to pivot into a new digital world of blogs, podcast and social media. I’d probably point to talent as well.

HE ALSO CAUGHT THE EYE OF THE POWERS THAT BE AT THE NEW YORK TIMES WHO OFFERED HIM THE TEMPTING ROLE OF THEIR FIRST CHIEF FOOTBALL WRITER

When a decade or so ago football became even more obsessed with the transfer speculation, and targets of Premier League clubs could be from anywhere in world football, Rory’s knowledge of the international scene became invaluable. The BBC came knocking and he grew into his more highprofile Monday night role. Somehow, he’s also found the time to write the excellent Champions League Dreams with Rafa Benitez, and Mister: The Men Who Gave The World The Game. His most recent book is Expected Goals (the story of how data conquered football), which reveals how clubs across the world, from Liverpool to Leipzig and Brentford to Bayern Munich, began to see how data could help them unearth new players, define radical tactics and plot their path to glory.

He also caught the eye of the powers that be at the New York Times who offered him the tempting role of their first Chief Football Writer. Perhaps their last too as they have done away with that in making him their first Global Sports Correspondent. The remote nature of the role also allowed Rory and his wife Kate to make the move back to Yorkshire, where she also hails from.

Introduced by Rory’s flatmate and Kate’s best friend in London, Rory seems very content both with his journey and the fact that they are now residing back in their home county.

Ilkley has a lot to recommend it for the parents of two young children, not least the nearby assistance of grandparents. Though there is real sadness in Rory’s voice when he also recognises that his younger brother Rob’s tragic death aged just 31 played a part in bringing them back to live closer to family. Whilst Collingham and Ilkley feature large in Rory’s Yorkshire story, Rory also has a special place in his heart for Stainforth near Settle, for it was here, at his in-law’s cottage, that a famous family trifecta played out. Rory asked Kate to marry him, luckily, she said yes. They were married at Stainforth parish church, and they were there when they found out they were to be parents for the first time.

After this year’s summer of sport, first to Germany for the Euros and then to Paris for the Olympics, he ponders about the omnipotence of his first love football above all others in the sporting landscape. The joy of all those Olympic moments, the medals, the near misses, the mental fortitude on display as well as the physical prowess shown has moved us all, and Rory writes

and speaks so eloquently to bring all this to life. It seems sad that all those athletes, all those sports, all their stories will now be largely forgotten until the four-year cycle comes round again, while our collective obsession with football resurfaces. C’est la vie, we guess. And move on to discuss whether Liverpool will eventually sign anyone or how their new manager will fare.

AFTER THIS YEAR’S SUMMER OF SPORT, HE PONDERS ABOUT THE OMNIPOTENCE OF HIS FIRST LOVE FOOTBALL ABOVE ALL OTHERS IN THE SPORTING LANDSCAPE

Rory’s a proud Yorkshireman but for some reason supports the Reds (not Manchester). Although he admits that seven-year-old son Ed is going the same way, I’m pleased to hear that his first love in terms of attending a sporting fixture is actually at Keighley’s Cougar Park. There’s hope for the young lad yet.

Even more engaging and likeable in person it’s been a pleasure to chat away to Rory. He’s remarkably humble about forging a career the like of which most of us would only dream of, describing it as “not really a proper job”. If you are a football fan and don’t tune in on a Monday evening, you should. You’ll discover one of the best voices on football, indeed all of sport. And sorry Chappers no offence but I don’t mean you. n

Photography: noriox/Shutterstock.com

YorkMix Family Raceday

Sunday 8 September

October Finale

Friday 11 - Saturday 12 October

DINING OUT AT THE RACES

Make a day at the races even more special with dining ranging from a la carte to fish and chips

There are so many different reasons to put a day at the races in your diary. From the racing aficionado who enjoys the sport, no matter what, follows the form, has a little flutter, talks enthusiastically about what they would have done differently if they were riding or training – to those who are mesmerised by the sheer elegance and beauty of the racehorse and want to get as close as they

can to feel their breath on their skin, smell the equine aromas and hear the rhythmic snorting as they canter to post.

For some, it’s a day to spend with friends, enjoying the action, socialising and making memories. Some won’t see a horse in the flesh, but they’ll be cheering on the one with the best name, as they thunder down the home straight.

AT EACH OF YORKSHIRE’S RACECOURSES YOU WILL FIND A RESTAURANT SERVING AN A LA CARTE SEASONAL MENU

There is no right or wrong reason to enjoy a day at the races and the reasons are not mutually exclusive, but something else to add to the mix is the wonderful array of fine dining and hospitality on offer from our wonderful, yet uniquely individual, nine Yorkshire courses.

Whether it’s a corporate event or making a day of it with family and friends, elevate your experience and explore the delicious cuisine on offer.

At each of Yorkshire’s racecourses you will find a restaurant serving an a la carte

seasonal menu. You can book in advance or on quieter days you might be able to walk in. You will have a base for the day, somewhere to watch the racing from and easy access to the bar. If a three-course meal is not your thing then visit later in the day for afternoon tea. For something different, try the Melrose Club Lounge at York Racecourse. Its informal atmosphere gives a relaxed feel to your day and as it is restricted to only 200 places, it won’t be too crowded either. Canapes and Yorkshire Tapas are served to your table, along with a light afternoon tea and there’s a viewing balcony over the home straight.

Thirsk’s fresh platter package offers admission, prosecco, a reserved table until the first race, a chilled platter of seafood, charcuterie or vegan is served with salads and new potatoes and finishes with a light dessert. Alternatively, upgrade your admission ticket to include refreshments, for example Ripon’s Club Package which includes admission, the dish of the day from the Fountains Café or fish and chips, plus a glass of house wine or beer or cider and a racecard. The options are endless and there will be something just right for you, so choose a date and book your tickets! n

goracing.co.uk

FAMILY PASSION FOR ART

From an early age, Jo York marvelled as her father meticulously created cartoon illustrations. This sowed the seed for a lifetime of art which now sees her paintings on display in galleries and owned by art lovers across the word. Andrew Vaux talks to her about her work

As a very young child, Jo York watched her cartoonist father draw, often late into the night.

An early fascination with the ‘tools of the trade’ she saw laid out on her dad’s drawing table – Pelikan ink, customised nibs, brushes, paints and pens – led to deep fascination in art materials, so much so that for many years Jo tested and demonstrated

them for a major European manufacturer.

She remembers: “My dad was quite a well-known cartoonist in the 1950s and 60s. He produced comic strips for the national newspapers and some of them were commissioned all over the world. He was absolutely fantastic, and I think one of my earliest memories is watching him draw.

DRIVING ALL AROUND THE DALES AND MOORS, JO BECAME INCREASINGLY FASCINATED AND ABSORBED BY THE LANDSCAPES SHE WAS SEEING

“He had what they used to call a ‘doubleelephant drawing table,’ they had great names then rather than simply just A1, A2 etc. He used to work on that with black Indian ink and nibs

and all sorts of things.

“He’d work late into the night, and I’d watch him when I was a kid just seeing his back and watching him working and I guess he sometimes didn’t know I was there!

“I was really fascinated by that.”

After leaving school Jo completed a Foundation Studies course, followed by a Degree in Graphic Design and Illustration.

She says: “At the time, everybody thought that graphics offered much more likelihood of a proper career and regular income, so I was heavily persuaded in that direction. I probably

should have done fine art, but the course was interesting and was broad enough to allow me to continue my studies in art history and life drawing, both of which I loved.”

Her deep interest in art education led her to a postgraduate teaching qualification and she taught for many years.

She moved to Harrogate with her family about 20 years ago and worked as the Art Consultant for North Yorkshire County Council for more than 10 years.

Driving all around the Dales and Moors, Jo became increasingly fascinated and absorbed by the landscapes she was seeing.

Now living in the heart of Nidderdale, she works from her small studio near Brimham Rocks.

Jo continues: “I’m so lucky to be able to focus on my own practice now. Ideas come to me when I’m out walking, often very early in the morning. I don’t feel right if I haven’t been out for a walk every day. I’m extremely fortunate where I live, I can get straight onto the moors.

I’m looking for wide expanses of landscape, deserted if possible apart from birds overhead, and the odd startled deer.”

“For me it’s all about the sensation of being there, feeling the wind, and seeing how the light moves across the land, walking through cloud and feeling the mist on your face.”

Jo’s work explores layers in the landscape and

in paint, especially places where the margins between land, sky, sea or water, shift and merge and change. Amorphous and intriguing, they come together to make an atmospheric abstraction, evoking the landscape rather than depicting it literally.

Back in the studio, Jo will start to explore

FOR ME IT’S ALL ABOUT THE SENSATION OF BEING THERE, FEELING THE WIND, AND SEEING HOW THE LIGHT MOVES ACROSS THE LAND, WALKING THROUGH CLOUD AND FEELING THE MIST ON YOUR FACE

ideas, make colour swatches, small intuitive paintings and thumbnail sketches, and make notes in her painting journals, before moving on to canvas.

She says: “Usually I’ll have at least two canvases on the go, often quite large, 70cm to a metre square and I’ll be living with more in the studio while I decide if they’re ready or not. Working across several paintings is really helpful, it keeps the freshness and each piece influences the other, plus on a practical level, you can let one dry while you’re working on the other.

“My paintings are made slowly, building multiple layers and often scraping back and incising detail, before glazing over the top. My record is three years on one piece!”

She concludes: “Often I’ll get people saying to me how nice and relaxing it must be to sit and paint. Actually, it can be hard work and stressful, particularly when ideas don’t come together. Sometimes, I’ll put a painting away for a while until I get renewed inspiration.” n

Jo exhibits widely and her work is available locally from Silson Contemporary in the heart of Harrogate, a stunning gallery space in a beautiful home, curated and owned by gallerist Sarah Collier. Jo writes a monthly artist newsletter, which is available free on her website.

joyorkart.co.uk

Hardisty Farm, Denton

£1,800,000

Hardisty’s Farm is a unique small rural estate set within about 2.5 acres amidst open countryside and with fantastic southerly views, yet within a short drive of the elegant spa town of Ilkley. The property includes a charming cottage garden, two paddocks and a substantial range of outbuildings including a large barn with may have potential to convert (subject to planning). EPC Rating F.

The Elms, Kettlewell

£689,500

A six bedroomed, stone built, double fronted property situated in the centre of this ever-popular village in the renowned Yorkshire Dales National Park. The property enjoys views over the fells from the front and a good sized southwest facing garden. EPC Rating F.

The Old Chapel, Draughton

Starbotton

£450,000

PREDICTING THE MARKET

Tranmer White is a first class estate agency serving Ilkley, Ben Rhydding, Addingham, Burley in Wharfedale, Menston and neighbouring towns. Founding Director, Edward Tranmer, answers the frequently asked question: ‘What will the market do next?’

Never has it been harder to clearly answer this question than over the last 18 months. Following extraordinary nationwide price rises across 2020, 2021 and 2022 in the aftermath of COVID, we had the delights of a Liz Truss government that lasted all of 44 days and in that time managed to ensure mortgage interest rates transitioned from historic lows to near 7 per cent. Throw into the mix rampant inflation, skyrocketing energy prices and general economic uncertainty, the outlook for 2024 was at best unclear. Who in their right mind would open a new estate agency in this climate? Well, with 140 years combined experience, we felt we’d worked through as many fluctuating markets as anyone and put our money where our mouth is. With the general election now behind us,

the question of what the market will bring over the rest of this year has never been more pertinent.

WITH 140 YEARS COMBINED EXPERIENCE, WE FELT WE’D WORKED THROUGH AS MANY FLUCTUATING MARKETS AS ANYONE AND PUT OUR MONEY WHERE OUR MOUTH IS

Markets are generally driven by positive sentiment and the election result seems to have left most with a feeling of increased stability. The latest data released by property portal Zoopla shows that prices have stayed

broadly flat over the last 12 months but that they’re on track to be up to 2 per cent higher by the end of this year. The recent anticipat ed bank rate cut of 0.25 per cent should only add to the sense of optimism among home movers and as agents we’re hopeful of seeing the usual spike in market activity once school term times resume in September.

An interesting statistic worth noting is that house prices are 23 per cent higher now than at the time of the last interest rate cut (March 2020).

Market commentators have wrongly predicted a market crash ever since the referendum in 2016 and while the current sense of positivity should be treated with caution, the one conclusion I have drawn is that the UK property market remains incredibly resilient. First time buyers, families, downsizers and everyone in between are seemingly determined to make their moves happen, regardless of whatever turmoil the country faces at any given moment.

The team at Tranmer White are incredibly proud to have placed more new property on the market in LS29 than any other local agent since we opened our doors in February and we hope to help more people successfully complete their home moves before the end of this year. n

tranmerwhite.co.uk

LABOUR’S PLANNING REFORM: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Zara Moon RIBA Chartered Architect & Planning Consultant at ZMA talks about the recent Labour plans to change planning policy in the UK, and what this could mean for your development

The planning process is a notoriously difficult area to navigate to achieve your development aspirations – ZMA have an exceptional 96 per cent planning success rate and are specialists in sensitive sites.

Labour’s manifesto focused on getting Britain building again – they promised an overhaul of the planning system, increased housing targets and a review of the Green Belt. Following their election win – Angela Rayner, Deputy Prime Minister, announced Labour’s draft National Planning Policy Framework.

HOUSING TARGETS

In recent years and the Conservative’s last NPPF amendment, there was a slight relaxation to housing targets. All caveats have now been removed and there are mandatory housing targets for each local authority, essentially increasing the required number of houses.

There is a strong emphasis on affordable housing – with Labour stating they want to create the biggest boost to social and affordable housing in a generation. Affordable housing is still only applicable to major developments (10 or more dwellings or 0.5 hectares) and will be dictated by the local housing need.

This could mean local authorities which had met their five-year housing supply needs –may no longer be able to meet new targets, which opens the door to new developments. All councils need their local plan in place and will need to identify specific deliverable sites annually.

GREEN BELT

All local authorities will undertake a Green Belt review to potentially reclassify some areas of Green Belt to Grey Belt or even remove from Green Belt.

The first priority will be Previously Developed Land in sustainable locations, the next will be Grey Belt in sustainable locations and the last priority will be Green Belt in sustainable locations.

This will allow development opportunities on land which previously would never be supported by planning policy.

However, where Green Belt land is released for development and is for a major development –50 per cent affordable housing will need to be provided.

Another important change is Paragraph 151 which lists the Green Belt exceptions. Exception g) relates to limited infilling or the partial or complete redevelopment of

Previously Developed Land. The exception no longer needs ‘to have no greater impact on the openness than the existing development’ and instead the development ‘should not cause substantial impact to the openness of the Green Belt.’

This could now mean that the development, scale and volume is not defined by the existing development on the site.

GREY BELT

The new land classification of ‘Grey Belt’ is ‘Land in the Green Belt comprising Previously Developed Land and any other parcels of land / or areas of the Green Belt land that make a limited contribution to the five Green Belt purposes.’

This could mean development on Green Belt land can now be justified if a plot doesn’t particularly contribute to the five purposes of Green Belt.

REMOVING THE TERM ‘BEAUTIFUL’

The previous NPPF revisions by the Conservatives introduced the term ‘beautiful’, which was welcomed by many. Removing the word could result in mass housing that doesn’t need to look attractive.

The draft NPPF consultation period has now commenced with the final NPPF potentially being implemented by the end of the year –more updates to follow in our future articles. n

If you have a potential development and want to understand how the revisions could assist your scheme, book a consultation with Zara to discuss your development aspirations.

ZMA

The Barn at Fieldings Farm Whalley Banks, Whalley BB7 9JL 01200 403840

zaramoonarchitects.co.uk

Michael and Johanna have been running The Angel since buying it and opening for business in 2018. Within the first year Michael and his team were awarded a Michelin star. The top chef has also gained Michelin stars at Bolton Abbey’s Devonshire Arms, Surrey’s The Latymer restaurant at Pennyhill Park and Devon’s Gidleigh Park.

First memory of the Dales

In my early twenties I was working for a real character called Reg Gifford at Michael’s Nook in Grasmere. He brought me over to the Dales for a Sunday lunch and we came to the Angel at Hetton. So life has really come full circle. I properly fell in love with the Dales when I worked at the Devonshire Arms at Bolton Abbey for over five years.

Your favourite Dale/favourite spot Weets Top. It overlooks the Gordale valley of

MY DALES…

Malham. It is a quiet place, set in moorland and approached by a steady climb from the River Aire. I do it on the bike with the kids.

Favourite place for a pint?

The Victoria in Kirkby Malham has always been a place I’ve enjoyed popping into for a pint. It’s been going since 1840!

Favourite Dales brewer (beer)/ distillery (gin)?

I’m going to plug the local Otterbeck Distillery which makes our very own Cotton gin. With flavours of Yuzu and Kaffir Lime from the Far East it’s balanced with foraged Elderflower from the Dales.

What’s the latest news at The Angel?

I’m pleased to say that we’ve finished the final accommodation phase and all 16 bedrooms are now completed and open for bookings.

Favourite ride?

Lots but recently enjoyed (if that’s the right word) going up the left side of Malham Cove, up and down to Settle, popped into Lancashire’s Gisburn Forest and then back to Hetton, about 42 miles I think.

Favourite Sunday roast?

We do a delicious Côte de boeuf, roasted 50-day aged Waterford farm.

Prefer dogs or cats?

Dogs, we have a Show Cocker Spaniel called Delilah, after the Tom Jones song. My wife Johanna is Welsh.

Have you ever been wild swimming and where?

I’ve had a dip in Janet’s Foss and looking forward to visiting the private wild swimming and woodland sauna facility at Broughton Sanctuary. We’ve recently linked with them in a new partnership ‘the ultimate gourmet wellbeing escape’.

Favourite Yorkshire artist / writer?

From a young age I thought David Hockney was an inspiring figure.

Favourite Yorkshire sportsperson?

After defending his Olympic Gold Medal in Mountain Biking and his efforts on the road I’m in awe of Tom Pidcock. Incredible that in his first Tour de France he took his first Grand Tour stage, winning solo on the climb of the iconic Alpe d’Huez, the youngest rider ever to do so.

Culinary inspirations

Marco Pierre White was a rock star and propelled chefs to a new level. Lancashire’s Paul Heathcote showed that genuinely nice guys could also make it. Both inspirational in their different ways. n

angelhetton.co.uk

Award-winning chef Michael Wignall runs the Michelin-starred Angel at Hetton with his wife Johanna