Made Lifestyle Magazine – issue 44. Jan/Feb 25.

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Happy New Year! We welcome 2025 with open arms, ready to embrace the exciting possibilities ahead. In Nottinghamshire, the start of the year brings fresh energy, with new events, creative ventures, and inspiring businesses shaping our vibrant county.

This year we'll be celebrating everything that makes Nottinghamshire a place to thrive— from bustling local markets and independent shops to innovative business hubs and breathtaking art exhibitions. Whether you're supporting local creatives, focusing on health and wellness, or indulging in the region’s finest food, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of the year ahead.

The local arts scene is already gearing up for a packed year, with exhibitions, performances, and creative workshops that showcase the incredible talent of Nottinghamshire's artists. Expect fresh exhibitions, innovative installations, and community-driven projects that will inspire and connect.

Supporting local business is more important than ever in 2025. Nottinghamshire’s independent shops are the heartbeat of the county, offering unique products and services on your doorstep. Foodies will also be in for a treat, with a diverse culinary scene that spans everything from seasonal farmers’ markets to Michelin-starred restaurants and vibrant new eateries.

In this issue discover Ransom Wood Business Park, a hidden gem for entrepreneurs looking to grow. We also explore the Sherwood Observatory, where a new planetarium is inspiring future scientists. In the art world, we pay tribute to Stephen Grey, whose works will be showcased at Cath Ray Gallery & Studios, offering a poignant glimpse into the artist’s legacy.

For those looking to refresh their homes and lives in 2025, we offer expert advice on everything from decluttering to gardening. Wedding planning tips and creative recipes for transforming leftovers from Teresa Bovey round out the issue. Plus, make sure you start the New Year on the right foot with a stroll through Tickhill with travel writer Sally Outram.

As the year unfolds, we hope these pages bring you inspiration, joy, and new opportunities. Whether for business, nature, or personal growth, Nottinghamshire offers endless possibilities to explore.

On The Cover: Grey Squirrel In Sherwood. Photograph by Jon Rogers. Mention Made

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ISSN 2515-6551 Cover design by Jon Rogers

Made is designed and published by Createinn Ltd.

All rights reserved; reproduction of any part of this magazine is not allowed without the written permission of the publishers. Prices are correct at the time of going to press.

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Inside This Issue

A vision for beavers in

and advice on how to make your wedding absolutely amazing.

make your big day unforgettable.

How Sherwood is helping to home in on

habitats.

Robert James, Sherwood Forest and Budby South Forest.

Home & Garden

Tasty recipes to use up your festive leftovers. By food demonstrator and home economist, Teresa Bovey.

Travel & Leisure

Discover history, charm, and tranquillity in this walk through Tickhill. By travel writer and photojournalist Sally Outram.

Exclusive special model as a tribute to the BMW R 90 S.

News

The local roundup

‘Mining For Stories’ Exhibition Digs Deep Into Local Heritage Of Mining Communities

The rich history of the local mining communities in Ollerton, Edwinstowe, and Bilsthorpe is set to be celebrated in a unique travelling heritage exhibition. ‘Mining for Stories’ offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, featuring interviews with ex-miners and members of the mining community, providing an authentic narrative of Newark and Sherwood’s industrial heritage.

A collection of photographs from the extensive museum archive will be showcased, alongside a community crafted artwork which was created during the Our Heritage Textile Photograph workshop at Edwinstowe Library. This artwork is a collaborative effort with the local Knit and Natter group and local people from the surrounding area.

‘Mining for Stories’ delves into the era of mining in the 1980s, a significant period for the local communities, and will tour up to three district venues, beginning its journey at Bilsthorpe Heritage Museum on currently until 13 Jan 25, before moving to Edwinstowe Library where it will be on display from 14 Jan 25 to 22 Feb 25.

Cris Cooper, Manager at Bilsthorpe Heritage

Museum, said: “It has been great working on Newark and Sherwood’s Mining for Stories Project. Our volunteers feel that their hard work looking after our collection is being appreciated and valued and it has been a huge boost to morale.”

Volunteers have played a crucial role in bringing this exhibition to life, generously sharing their time and stories.

A consultation earlier this month provided curators with additional information about the images in the collection, allowing for the identification of individuals and locations in photographs that were previously unknown.

Councillor Rowan Cozens, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Heritage, Culture

and the Arts at Newark and Sherwood District Council, expressed her enthusiasm for the exhibition, stating: “‘Mining for Stories’ is a remarkable tribute to the resilience and camaraderie of our mining communities.

“It’s a celebration of our shared heritage and an opportunity for residents and visitors alike to engage with the stories that have shaped our district. We are proud to support this exhibition and the Open Doors programme, which continues to enrich the cultural landscape of Newark and Sherwood.”

‘Mining for Stories’ is part of Open Doors, a threeyear programme of events organised by Newark and Sherwood District Council and funded by Arts Council England.

The programme aims to increase creative opportunities for young people and under-served groups, establishing a cultural focal point across Newark and Sherwood.

This exhibition stands as a powerful tribute to the lasting impact of the mining communities and their profound role in shaping the region’s history.

It offers visitors a chance to journey back in time and immerse themselves in the narratives that influenced the lives of so many in Newark and Sherwood.

Find out more about what Open Doors has on offer by visiting: Upcoming events - Palace Theatre, Newark on: www.newark-sherwooddc. gov.uk

Welbeck Farm Shop & The Harley Café Shortlisted

The Welbeck Estate in Nottinghamshire is celebrating with two of its businesses shortlisted in the Farm Retail Awards. The Welbeck Farm Shop has been named one of the best farm shops in the UK, while the Harley Café is looking to be crowned the best farm café.

The Awards, set up by the Farm Retail Association (FRA), champion the best farm shops, pick your owns and farmers markets. A shortlist with three finalists in each of the eight award categories was announced earlier this week with The Welbeck Farm Shop short-listed in the Large Farm Shop of the Year category while the Harley Café, which sits across the Courtyard from the Shop, features in the Farm Café/Restaurant of Year shortlist. The winners will be announced at a glittering awards ceremony in March 2025 at The Eastside Rooms in Birmingham.

Chair of the Farm Retail Association, Emma Mosey said: “It’s wonderful to shine a light and celebrate our farm shops and farmers markets which are often independent, family-run businesses at the heart of communities. The sector is an important bridge between field and fork, sourcing fresh and nutritious produce with low food miles, from passionate and knowledgeable retailers.”

Oliver Stubbins, Farm Shop Manager, commented, “It is a real honour to be recognised once again by the Farm Retail

Association. In their 2024 Awards we were thrilled to be announced as the ‘UK Farm Butcher of the Year’, so it’s brilliant to now be in the running for TWO national awards for 2025! The Farm Shop is once again recognised, making a shortlist of three in the Large Farm Shop of the Year category – this follows hot on the heels of the Shop being awarded ‘UK Large Farm Shop 2024’ by the Farm Shop & Deli Retail Awards earlier this year. We’re delighted that the Harley Café has also reached a national shortlist, meaning every element of the business, and every colleague’s contribution has been recognised as being amongst the best of the best.”

The Welbeck Farm Shop and the Harley Café sit at the heart of a vibrant artisan food community on the Welbeck Estate. Since opening in 2006, Welbeck Farm Shop has earned a reputation for being one of the region's best farm shops. It focuses on low food miles, drawing on a rich artisan food tradition. Meat is sourced from the local area, including from the Welbeck Estate, where rare breed livestock graze historic pastures. Meats are cured in-store by the award-

winning butchery team. The Estate’s Raw Milk is also offered, delivered fresh from the dairy every morning. It’s the same milk in the internationally acclaimed Stichelton blue cheese. A cheese counter developed with help from their friends, Neal’s Yard Dairy is lovingly tended by an in-house cheesemonger.

Managed by the Welbeck Farm Shop, the Harley Café takes pride in serving the best local ingredients, including produce from across the Welbeck Estate, with bread from the Welbeck Bakehouse, meat from the Shop’s awardwinning butchery, and the famous blue cheese from Stichelton Dairy. Situated in The Courtyard at Welbeck, the Harley Café serves homemade, seasonal breakfast and lunch menus by Head Chef James Armstrong, including cakes, scones, sandwiches and salads, plus everyday favourites such as the Farmshop Lamp Shawarma and the Garden Bhaji, made with fresh vegetables from the Estate’s Walled Garden.

To find out more about The Harley Café and Welbeck Farmshop visit: www.welbeckfarmshop. co.uk

Events

Welbeck Abbey Brewery

Welbeck Estate, Worksop

Brewday Experience

Various dates

Join the production team for a full day brewing beer. This is a real hands-on experience for any avid beer lover. Refreshments and take-home beers are included. Book at www. welbeckabbeybrewery.co.uk

Brewery Tours

Last Thursday of the month (April - Sep)

The tour presents a rare opportunity to peek behind the closed doors of an award-winning traditional microbrewery includes two pints of beer. Tickets cost £15 per person. Book at www. welbeckabbeybrewery.co.uk

National Civil War Centre

Appletongate, Newark, NG24 1JY

A Polish Heart Beats Here/Tu Bije Polskie Serce

On now until 26 Apr

Celebrate the rich and diverse Polish culture within Newark and Sherwood at the National Civil War Centre’s new exhibition, ‘A Polish Heart Beats Here’. Co-produced with the local Polish community, this vibrant exhibition explores three main themes: remembrance, everyday life, and culture and traditions.

‘A Polish Heart Beats Here’ exhibition is part of Open Doors, a three-year programme of events organised by Newark and Sherwood District Council and funded by Arts Council England. Its aim is to increase creative opportunities for young people and underserved groups and become a focal point for culture across Newark and Sherwood. www.nationalcivilwarcentre. com

Events

Clumber Park Worksop, S80 3AZ

Discover Clumber Park Walk

First Thurs of every month, 10.30am – 1pm

Led walk exploring the different landscapes and habitats of the park. 4-6 miles long, dogs on leads welcome. Free event, no booking required, admission into the park applies. Meet outside the Discovery Centre. nationaltrust.org.uk

Heritage & Horticulture Amble

Third Mon of every month, 11am – 12.30pm

Enjoy a stroll around Clumber Park's core visitor area, discovering snippets of the estate's ducal history and seasonal highlights. Each month has a different theme and route, no more than 3km. Free event, no booking required, admission into the park applies. Meet outside the Heritage Hub. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

February Half Term

19 – 23 Feb

Come and enjoy nature and the great outdoors with activities like den building, bushcraft, bark rubbing, bug hunting and animal tracking across multiple play zones. Free event, no booking required, admission into the park applies. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Southwell Workhouse

Upton Rd, Southwell. NG25 0PT

February Half Term At The Workhouse

19 – 23 Feb

Come and enjoy a new children’s trail with a Cluedo twist (£2.50 per child) and listen to Tales from The Workhouse on Thursday and Saturday. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Share Your Events

If you have an event you’d like to share with Made we’d love to hear from you.

Email: hello@madeinn.co.uk or call: 01777 712609 www.madeinn.co.uk

Discover Your Potential At Mount St Mary's College

An independent Day and Boarding School for all children aged 11 – 18.

The Mount is committed to providing exceptional academic experiences. With subject experts in each department dedicated to nurturing intellectual curiosity, students receive in-depth teaching across a wide range of disciplines. The emphasis on pastoral care alongside academic progression, ensures each student's wellbeing is prioritised, fostering a supportive environment conducive to personal growth and development. Children are seen as an individual, addressing their unique strengths and needs.

Beyond the classroom, the school boasts remarkable grounds, providing children with ample space and freedom to flourish. Enveloped in the beautiful Derbyshire countryside, fields and natural woodland provides an idyllic surrounding for their outdoor sports programme. There’s an

Olympic-sized athletics track, swimming pools and sports pitches, including rugby, cricket, football, netball, and hockey. This is all supported by expert sports coaching from the dedicated faculty staff.

If sport is the heart of the Mount, it is music which provides the spirit. In addition to academic and sporting excellence, the school offers an array of musical and theatre coaching with regular performances and concerts throughout the school year.

Supporting the classroom timetables, a vast array of co-curricular activities caters to all interests and talents. From chess to robotics, sports, and crafting, students have the opportunity to explore their passions and develop new skills outside the classroom, enriching their educational journey.

Events

National Justice Museum

High Pavement, Nottingham. NG1 1HN

Picture This: Hope A National Justice Museum Photography Exhibition

On now until – 7 Mar

‘Picture This: Hope is’ an inspiring collection of black and white photographs, submitted by professional and amateur photographers from across the UK, that capture the essence of Hope.

We invited photographers from across the UK, whether professional or aspiring, to submit their black and white photographs that capture the essence of Hope.

What symbolises hope to you?

Are you inspired by nature's resilience, acts of kindness, or the enduring human spirit?

Maybe you want to explore what personal hope means to you, or what it means to society as a whole.

Whether it's the small, everyday moments or grand visions of the future, the exhibition shares multiple interpretations of Hope.

For further details visit: www.nationaljusticemuseum. org.uk

Idle Valley Nature Reserve

North Road, Retford. DN22 8RQ

North Notts Group Talk: Bird Ringing with John Clark

9 Jan, 7pm – 8.30pm Join John Clark for an enlightening talk about bird ringing. Includes a feather quiz!

The talk takes place at Idle Valley Visitor Centre, beginning at 7.15pm. Entrance £3, includes half time refreshments. All welcome. No need to be a member. £3 at the door. www.nottinghamshirewildlife. org

Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance

Completes

30,000th Mission

Life-saving charity, the Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance has responded to its 30,000th call – in its 30th anniversary year.

The helicopter and crew landed at the scene of an RTC near Market Rasen, Lincolnshire, in the hours of darkness in late October 24.

The doctor and paramedic crew treated two women and a child, who were then taken to hospital. It is the unique combination of a specialist crew with the speed and capability of the helicopter that gives patients the best chance of survival.

LNAA CEO Karen Jobling sad: “This milestone during LNAA’s 30th anniversary year, was made possible because of the support of people living and working in the communities of

Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire.”

LNAA’s team of specialist paramedics, doctors and pilots have already responded to almost 1,500 life-saving missions this year.

October proved to be extremely busy and the crews were called out to 141 incidents of which 58 of these were undertaken during the hours of darkness.

With the aid of night vision goggles (NVGs) the crew are able to fly at night to reach patients involved in the most serious of incidents until 2am every day. Each pair of NVGs cost £14,000 and it is thanks to the generosity of people living and working

in the communities of Lincs & Notts that we can equip the crew with this state-ofthe art equipment allowing them to provide pre-hospital emergency care to those in need whilst everyone is asleep.

Karen added: “We need £13 million this year to provide this 24/7 service, every day of the year. We receive no direct Government funding, and have only come this far, thanks to everyone who continues to support us, giving our patients the best chance of survival and recovery.”

To find out more and to support the Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance, visit: www.ambucopter.org.uk

The World’s First Fusion Energy Café Opens To Fuel Hungry Minds

The world’s first fusion energy-themed café has been officially inaugurated, marking a milestone in public engagement with fusion energy science and technology.

The Fusion Energy Café, located within the Bridge Skills Hub, Worksop, aims to raise awareness and increase knowledge of fusion energy in a welcoming setting.

Featuring interactive displays, themed décor, nourishing refreshments, and guest talks, the space serves as a platform to inspire interest in fusion energy.

It showcases fusion energy as a sustainable, low carbon energy solution while

highlighting its potential as a transformative technology for the future.

Fusion is set to become a key industry for the area with the planned construction of the STEP (Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production) prototype fusion plant at the West Burton site.

The Cafe’s opening is part of a broader effort to engage the local community in the programme, which will create skills development opportunities

and jobs for local people.

The opening ceremony was led by Climate Minister, Kerry McCarthy, who said: “The Fusion Energy Café is a fantastic way to inspire a whole generation to learn more about this groundbreaking technology and its potential to deliver safe, sustainable, and low-carbon energy, helping us in our fight against climate change.

“This initiative, inspired by the development of the STEP prototype power

plant at West Burton, will not only help to drive progress in clean energy but also bring valuable skills, jobs, and investment to the area.”

The Fusion Energy Café 9 Bridge Pl, Worksop S80 1DT

Mon – Fri, 8.30am-5pm, Sat, 9am - 3pm

Email: fusionenergycafe@ bassetlaw.gov.uk

Call: 01909 384802

For further details visit: fusionenergycafe.org

Events

Attenborough Nature Reserve

Barton Lane Attenborough, Nottingham. NG9 6DY

Attenborough In WatercolourPainting Workshop

25 Jan, 10am - 4pm

Spend a relaxing day painting at Attenborough Nature Centre led by Anjana Cawdell. Anjana is a nature inspired watercolour artist based in Nottingham, who loves to paint in a loose, impressionistic style.

The workshop includes lunch and refreshments in the conference room with beautiful views across the water. Participants of all abilities are welcome and no previous experience is required. With 48hrs notice, we can cater for most dietary and allergy needs. Please get in touch using the contact form if you have any questions or to inform us of any specific requirements/requests. £90. www.nottinghamshirewildlife. org

Thoresby

Thoresby Estate, Thoresby Park, Newark. NG22 9EP

Thistle & Sketch Stag

Painting Class

1 Feb, 10.30am – 12.30pm

We are excited to be hosting another painting workshop in the Courtyard Café where you can learn to paint your own Stag, including homemade soup and toastie!

Thistle and Sketch deliver creative, friendly and relaxing painting classes. These sessions give you the opportunity to try something new, or perhaps kickstart. No experience is needed, as you will be patiently and professionally guided throughout. Come along with a friend or alone, all are very welcome! Classes last 1.5 hours, and you are provided with all art materials, including a canvas board to paint, which you take home at the end. £30 per person. Booking Essential - call 01623 825225, £30 payment required upon booking. thoresby.com

Active Nottingham Gym Undergoes A Major Transformation

The gym at Djanogly Community Leisure Centre has been transformed as part of a wider £1.5m investment for new equipment.

The gym at Djanogly Community Leisure Centre has been transformed as part of a wider £1.5m investment for new equipment in late 2024.

Active Nottingham, which is part of Nottingham City Council, began investing funds in March 2023 with members at Clifton, Southglade, Victoria, and Harvey Hadden having already experienced the new gym concept. This investment extends over five years and covers all six of its leisure centres: Harvey Hadden Sports Village, Clifton, Ken Martin, Southglade, Victoria, and Djanogly Community Leisure Centre.

The revamp at Djanogly Community Leisure Centre includes premium equipment from Life Fitness, Hammer Strength, and ICG ®, which is suitable for all

training interests and fitness levels. Additionally, the centre will join an exclusive group of UK gyms to feature Symbio™ Cardio, which will take fitness journeys to the next level.

The new kit will also include immersive digital experiences with cardio consoles, a functional zone and environmentally friendly Green Zones with self-powered equipment. Cllr Sam Lux, Executive Member for Carbon Reduction, Leisure and Culture at Nottingham City Council said: “It was great to attend the reopening of the gym at Djanogly Community Leisure Centre with our fantastic team. The impressive upgraded facilities rival those of private gyms and will serve as an excellent resource for the community. I was particularly energised when I saw the new wall of self-powered equipment, helping towards Notting-

ham’s goal to be the UK’s first carbon neutral city.

“This is the latest in a suite of renovations across Active Nottingham centres. It's wonderful to see the penultimate phase moving forward following upgrades across Clifton, Southglade, Victoria, and Harvey Hadden over the past few years.”

In early November 2024, Djanogly Community Leisure Centre opened its doors to the gyms for a VIP Open Day, where Master Trainers from Life Fitness were on hand to help customers utilise the new equipment. Members were also be invited to bring along a friend for free for the day.

For more information on the refurbishment project, details on how to join and offers available, visit Active Nottingham’s website: www.activenottingham.com

A Life Saved

Heart attack survivor reunites with the doctor who rescued him. EMICS, East Midlands Immediate Care Scheme.

For 64-year-old Peter, participating in his local 10K was meant to be an enjoyable challenge. An experienced runner, he felt confident. But as he reached the four-kilometre mark, something felt wrong. Peter began to slow, unaware that he was having a heart attack. Determined, he pushed on—but moments later, he collapsed.

“I didn’t feel chest pain or breathlessness,” Peter later recalled. “I just thought I was having an off day.”

Abby, a fellow runner, saw Peter fall and immediately started CPR. Event medics and paramedics quickly arrived, but Peter’s heart stopped twice as they worked to save him. Dr. Matt Woods, a Consultant in Anaesthesia and volunteer with the East Midlands Immediate Care Scheme (EMICS), was called to the scene.

“When I got there, Peter was critically unwell,” Dr. Woods explained. Using his advanced training, he administered an anaesthetic to stabilise Peter and used a defibrillator to restart his heart. “Seconds or minutes can make all the difference in these situations,” he added.

Peter was rushed to hospital, where a team worked to save him. Later that day, Peter woke up in intensive care with no memory of the incident. “I knew straight away I was in a hospital, but I didn’t realise how close I’d come to dying,” he said.

Months later, Peter met the people who saved his life, including Dr. Woods. “I owe my life to Dr Woods,” Peter said. “His quick actions and skill gave me a second chance, and I’ll never forget it.”

EMICS is a volunteer-led charity that dispatches highly trained doctors like Dr. Woods to critical 999 calls, delivering life-saving care before patients reach the hospital. The charity, which handles over 150 emergencies each month, relies entirely on public donations to fund its operations.

Support EMICS and help them continue their vital work. Visit www.emics.org.uk. Every second—and every donation—truly makes a difference.

Events

Southwell Minster

Southwell, NG25 0HD

Coldplay By Candlelight

17 Jan, 7.30pm – 9.45pm

Calling all Coldplay fans… you’ve been waiting for ‘Something Just Like This’! The Music Of Coldplay By Candlelight is coming to Southwell Minster!

Featuring a spectacular cast of world class vocalists and an epic live band, prepare for total ‘Paradise’, as you experience Coldplay’s biggest hits, like never before!

This incredible concert will take you on the ‘Adventure Of A Lifetime’, with not just a ‘Sky Full Of Stars’, but a room full of candlelight and spectacular live music, too! Get ready to hear all your favourites, from ‘Viva La Vida’ and ‘Hymn For The Weekend’, to ‘Yellow’, ‘The Scientist’ and many more, performed live in Southwell Minster, by candlelight. www.southwellminster.org

An Evening Of Radiohead

27 Feb, 7.30pm – 10pm

Join us for An Evening of Radiohead – performed live by a full band and string quartet in the ethereal surroundings of Southwell Minster.

Lose yourself in this sonically spectacular celebration of Radiohead’s vast and everexpanding universe of music – including hits and hidden gems from their 30 years in the spotlight from albums such as OK Computer, In Rainbows and The Bends.

A full live band, complete with the nationally renowned Mike Nowland String Quartet, will transport you on an epic journey through the bestselling band’s back catalogue within the stunning surroundings of Southwell Minster Cathedral, for a night of live music you will never forget.

The set list will collate a detailed selection of hits and lesser known gems from all of Radiohead’s nine albums to date, and will have something for everyone as we venture from 90s maudlin rockers to bombastic sonic landscapes in what is guaranteed to be a sensory experience like no other.

www.southwellminster.org

Training Aircraft Acquired By Newark Air Museum

After a short set of negotiations, the Newark Air Museum has completed the purchase of Short Tucano T1, ZF372 from Everett Aero of Sproughton, Suffolk.

Funding for the acquisition was made possible thanks to a legacy from the Estate of John Dove, a former museum member and RAF Winthorpe veteran.

In late 2024 the airframe was delivered to the museum’s site in eastern Nottinghamshire, which is close to the border with Lincolnshire by a team from Everett Aero. As part of the purchase agreement the wings were refitted to the aircraft by the Everett Aero team, thereby assisting the museum volunteers to reposition it on its undercarriage.

The Tucano fills yet another important gap in the museum’s themed display of training aircraft. Whilst in service, Tucanos were a familiar sight

in the sky above the museum; when they were retired from RAF service in October 2019 the museum was unsuccessful in an attempt to acquire an airframe for its collection.

“By adding Short Tucano T1, ZF372 to its collection the museum has fulfilled the desire to add the type to its display,” commented museum trustee, Dave Hibbert, he continued, “It’s addition is in line with one part of the museum’s stated Collecting Policy, of acquiring. “Aircraft used in a Training role.” He concluded, “We are extremely grateful to the Everett Aero team, who did an excellent job with the main reassembly work on the aircraft, our volunteers will continue this work in the coming days.”

The airframe retains its last operational configuration and volunteers ZF372 will be moved inside Hangar 2 at the museum. Museum staff and volunteers will complete its reassembly and start the long process of sourcing instrumentation to complete the cockpits. In Hangar 2 it will be displayed alongside several other training airframes, like the Jetstream, Dominie, Bulldog, Gnat and Jet Provost. ZF372 is expected to retain its current training scheme markings.

Tucano T1, ZF372 was one of several airframes that had been in deep storage at RAF Shawbury Shropshire and is believed to have been moved to Sproughton in October 2024.

www.newarkairmuseum.org

Image courtesy of Howard Heeley - Down To Earth Promotions.

IGNITE: FIRE, FLAME AND FRENZY

Wander through a vista of flames and chemical reactions in Doctor Kronovator’s flaming laboratory from Emergency Exit Arts and Lightfires, be spellbound by stunning LED Hoop Shows and enjoy a marvellous roving display of Living Lamp-Posts at this fun-filled family night out in the historic heart of Newark!

History Wardrobe & Bassetlaw Museum Present

Divine

Deco - The Art Of The Dressmaker

Join costume historians Lucy Adlington and Meridith Towne of History Wardrobe for an exciting presentation on Art Deco fashion. Sleek, chic and super modern... Fashions of the 1920s showcase sensational dressmaking skills. From slinky bohemian pjs to beautiful bias-cut gowns, explore a fascinating array of home-made and couture-quality clothes from this dazzling decade.

At The Grove Street Methodist Church in Retford, 6th March 25 at 6.30pm.

What would you wear in the 1920s?

Would you browse the rails of local department stores, or flick through the pages of fashion magazines for inspiration before being fitted by a dressmaker? Or could you be up to the task of home sewing?

In 'Divine Deco - The Art of the Dressmaker' we explore the ways in which women of all ages and all sizes adapted and enjoyed fashionable outfits. They are shaped by lingerie and foundation garments, and beautifully accessorised.

It’s truly mesmerising to witness the transformative power of fabric, the intricate beauty of embellishments, and the way they come together to create something timeless. Join Lucy and Meridith for an evening where history is not only preserved but made vibrant and visually stunning through a celebration of dazzling fashion.

Lucy Adlington is an author, a presenter, and a keen collector of vintage and antique costume. She writes both history-inspired fiction and fascinating social history books. Her most recent history book, ‘The Dressmakers of Auschwitz’, is a New York Times bestseller. She runs the History Wardrobe series of presentations and manages the History Wardrobe collection.

Meridith Towne is a skilled historical dressmaker, creating wonderful costumes for History Wardrobe, English Heritage, the National Trust and V&A. She’s appeared on the Great British Sewing Bee and Antiques Road Trip. She loves the way clothing gives clues about their makers and wearers.

Find out more about Lucy and Meridith by visiting: www.historywardrobe.com www.meridithtowne.co.uk

Event Details Grove Street Methodist Church, Retford 6 March 2025, 6.30pm – 7.45pm Free Admission. Suggested donation £5.

Light refreshments will be available. Booking essential. To book email: bassetlaw.museum@bassetlaw.gov.uk or call 01777 713749 www.bassetlawmuseum.org.uk

RSPB To Help Newark Solar Development Become A Biodiversity ‘Haven’

A major solar development is set to become a biodiversity “haven” twice as big as Center Parcs, after a series of new eco-partnerships were agreed.

Developer Elements Green plans to build a solar park near Newark, capable of generating enough clean energy to power every home in Nottinghamshire.

Having received the backing in principle of several key nature charities and trusts, the Great North Road Solar Park project will be renamed ‘Great North Road Solar and Biodiversity Park’, with a new logo to reflect this positive change.

Communities who were consulted on the original proposals in early 2024 expressed a strong desire to protect and enhance their natural environment. Acting upon this feedback, developer Elements Green has formed partnerships with the RSPB, Sherwood Forest Trust, Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, and The Trent Rivers Trust, to ensure that nature benefits from their ambitious project.

“These partnerships validate our belief that this exciting development doesn’t just mean greener energy and cheaper bills, but will also improve the local environment,” said Mark Noone, UK Project Director.

“Our commitment will see 850 acres of land dedicated solely to positive ecological

management, which is an area more than twice the size of Sherwood Forest Center Parcs.

“It will consist of wetlands, grassland, and other environmentally focused land management projects. Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust will ensure these bring the greatest benefits to wildlife, whilst Trent Rivers Trust will be central to work on wetlands.

“With the help of Sherwood Forest Trust, we will be planting 50,000 new trees to help combat pre-existing flooding in the area and to benefit biodiversity. The RSPB will be instrumental in the design of this new woodland and grassland habitats.

“Additionally, 25km of hedgerow will be planted, for context this is longer than The Brian Clough Way.

“In an area which suffers limited access to the countryside, the public will be able to enjoy these naturally enhanced areas via the creation of 20km of new permissive footpaths.”

“The new project name, the planned measures, and the partnership commitments, crystallise our unwavering commitment to creating a cleaner, greener, Newark and Sherwood.”

Charlotte Martin-Taylor, Head of Business Conservation Advice at the RSPB, said the business conservation parentship was a chance to unite and “address the urgent biodiversity and climate crises”.

“Together, we will be working on Great North Road Solar and Biodiversity Park, a project that aims to combine renewable energy with habitat restoration at a landscape scale and deliver conservation opportunities for priority species,” she added.

“This collaboration highlights the vital role businesses can play as allies for nature, creating a future where both wildlife and clean energy thrive.”

Besides environmental benefits, Great North Road Solar and Biodiversity Park could create approximately 460 new jobs whilst injecting hundreds of millions of pounds into the regional economy.

Additionally, £1m-a-year in grants has been ringfenced for local schemes via the NG+ community benefit fund.

Currently Great North Road Solar and Biodiversity Park is in the pre-application stage. If approved, it could play a significant role in improving the UK’s energy security whilst lowering household bills. If approved, construction could commence in 2027 with the park becoming operational two years later.

Jake Geczy, Mark Noone, and Elena Sarieva from Elements Green.

In

the Moment

Paintings by Garry Ashton.

On now until 8 Feb 25

Bassetlaw Museum, Retford, DN22 6LD

Garry Ashton, a Gainsborough-based artist trained at Lincoln College of Art and De Montfort University, draws inspiration from landscape and a wide range of artistic styles. He doesn't follow one particular artist but is influenced by elements like color mixing and composition, from Rembrandt to Pre-Raphaelite painters. While Garry has developed his own distinctive style, he enjoys blending past techniques with his own, believing that such experimentation only enhances his work. Though he enjoys experimenting with various media and tools, he often returns to oils and acrylics. Garry works quickly, inspired by fleeting moments that compel him to create. When something feels right, he can't stop revisiting it, which is why his collection is titled In the Moment. He hopes viewers will enjoy this new collection as much as he enjoyed creating it.

bassetlawmuseum.org.uk

The ‘Creative Spotlight’

The ‘Creative Spotlight’ exhibition by Artempo.

15 Feb – 19 Apr 25

Bassetlaw Museum, Retford, DN22 6LD

This exhibition is a delightfully varied spotlight on paintings, textiles, lino prints, handmade books and crafts by Artempo members. This select group of artists includes Pat Carrington, Ann Everitt, Cath Ray, Jenny King, Wendy Smith, Annie Turner and Polly Warren. Although with their own individual styles, as a close-knit group of seven they benefit from being able to inspire, encourage and support each other on a regular basis.

Like many artists, Pat is fascinated by the light. Her challenge is to utilise the worlds of light and shade to create the illusion of depth. This involves painting shadows, half tones and hard light consistently and accurately.

Ann has been interested in drawing and painting for as long as she can remember. She continues to enjoy the challenge, pleasure and frustrations of drawing from life, memories and sensations.

Jenny enjoys working creatively in watercolour and acrylic paint, but also in textiles. She produces a wide variety of work from delicate flower paintings and embroidered cards to landscapes of rich colour and texture.

Cath runs a busy art studio and gallery on Bridgegate in

Retford and also finds time to produce her own paintings and drawings. Her current work revolves around night-time townscapes in oil and charcoal studies of livestock and horses.

Wendy’s interest in art started in early childhood and the encouragement she received at college and local art groups spurred her on. Her work in many different mediums is influenced from the natural world.

Annie’s work history is in teaching art. She now relishes the luxury of time to paint. Her work is bright, bold, emotional and energetic, and is often inspired by nature.

Polly has been designing and printing linocuts for many years since enjoying courses with the renowned artist and printmaker Richard Bawden. Her designs are often of gardens and fond memories of places.

Together and individually the artists have exhibited at The Ferens, Hull, The Mall Galleries, London, The Harley Gallery, Welbeck, Creswell Crags, Worksop, Clumber Park, Edwinstowe Craft Centre, Rufford Abbey and Retford.

The exhibition runs from 15 Feb - until 19 Apr and is free to view Mon - Sat, 10am –4.45pm.

Imagery with thanks to the artists.

North Notts BID Learning Platform

World’s first live learning platform available free to North Notts BID member employees.

North Notts BID has announced the launch of its new interactive learning solution for local businesses in partnership with SEEDL, the world’s first live learning broadcast company.

Offering free unlimited access for BID members to 200 live interactive webinars, as well as prerecorded sessions, the courses aim to provide upskilling opportunities for employees across various positions and expertise.

A range of subjects covered in the courses include leadership, customer service, mental wellness, communication, retail management and project management.

Sally Gillborn MBE, chief executive at North Notts BID said. “Learning and development opportunities are a vital component of our business plan to promote business growth and build resilience.

“From hospitality to industrial businesses, the platform offers lots of opportunities for different BID member businesses

to benefit and we anticipate the platform will have a great uptake and impact on employees.”

On completing a course, employees can download a North Notts BID completion of learning certificate, helping staff evidence their personal development.

Joanna Nash, chief learning officer at SEEDL, said: “SEEDL and North Notts BID will help retain employees of levy payers plus tempt new employees to their businesses. With learning being such a key part of candidate attraction and retention, we’re delighted to help these local businesses have a competitive edge. We will also be running mental wellness offerings, which is something so many businesses have been asking us to offer during our research exercise.”

The programme of upcoming courses for employees of North Notts BID member businesses can be viewed on the SEEDL website here.

For more information visit: northnottsbid.co.uk

At The Movies!

The latest cinema releases and live screenings of major exhibitions, famous operas and the best theatre at the Savoy Cinema.

Screenings

15 Jan - The Tales Of Hoffman RBO 24-25

Four women: four curious love stories. Juan Diego Flórez leads a fantastic cast in Offenbach's dream-like opera. Through the haze of the years, a poet remembers the women he loved. But when it comes to matters of the heart, nothing is as it seems. Particularly when the devil himself is involved…

17 Jan - A Complete Unknown

In the early 1960s, 19-year-old Bob Dylan arrives in New York with his guitar and revolutionary talent, destined to change the course of American music. Forming his most intimate relationships during his rise to fame, he grows restless with the folk movement, making a controversial choice that reverberates worldwide.

7 Feb - Dog Man

Part dog, part man, all hero. From DreamWorks Animation—creators of the beloved blockbuster franchises Kung Fu Panda, How to Train Your Dragon and The Boss Baby—comes the canine-crimefighting film adaptation of Dav Pilkey’s New York Times bestselling literary phenomenon: Dog Man. When a faithful police dog and his human police officer owner are injured together on the job, a harebrained but life-saving surgery fuses the two of them together and Dog Man is born. Dog Man is sworn to protect and

13 Feb - Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy

Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy is an upcoming romantic comedy film directed by Michael Morris from a screenplay by Helen Fielding, Dan Mazer and Abi Morgan. The sequel to Bridget Jones's Baby and the fourth instalment in the Bridget Jones film series, it is based on the 2013 novel by Fielding.

14 Feb - Captain America: A Brave New World

Sam finds himself in the middle of an international incident after meeting with President Thaddeus Ross. He must soon discover the reason behind a nefarious global plot before the true mastermind has the entire world seeing red.

20 Feb - National Theatre Live: The Importance Of Being Earnest

Three-time Olivier Award-winner Sharon D Clarke is joined by Ncuti Gatwa (Doctor Who; Sex Education) in this joyful reimagining of Oscar Wilde’s most celebrated comedy. While assuming the role of a dutiful guardian in the country, Jack lets loose in town under a false identity. Meanwhile, his friend Algy adopts a similar facade. Hoping to impress two eligible ladies, the gentlemen find themselves caught in a web of lies they must carefully navigate.

Visit www.savoycinemas.co.uk to book & to find full listings of all the most awaited movies & live screenings.

ShowTime

It's show time! Grab your popcorn, ice cream and treats, and enjoy all the fun of the theatre here in Nottinghamshire. Here's a few of our favourites...

The Girl On The Train Theatre Royal, Nottingham 21 - 25 Jan

Rachel Watson longs for a different life.

Her only escape is the perfect couple she watches through the train window every day, happy and in love. Or so it appears. When Rachel learns that the woman she’s been secretly watching has suddenly disappeared, she finds herself as a witness and even a suspect in a thrilling mystery in which she will face bigger revelations than she could ever have anticipated.

Adapted from Paula Hawkins’ novel – an international phenomenon selling over twenty million copies worldwide – this gripping new play will keep you guessing until the final moment. Multitalented actor, novelist and podcaster Giovanna Fletcher (2:22 A Ghost Story, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, Peter James’ Wish You Were Dead) will star in this brandnew production, following the play’s first sell-out UK tour. trch.co.uk

Hobson's Choice The Classic Comedy By Harold Brighouse

Retford Little Theatre, Retford

27 Jan - 1 Feb

This ever-popular comedy features boot and shoemaker and overbearing father, Henry Hobson, whose elder daughter Maggie dares to stand up to him, and announces her intention of marrying Hobson's timid and downtrodden employee, Willie Mossop.

Maggie and Willie make a success of their own shoe shop, and the tables are gradually turned until in the end Henry's drinking gets out of control, Willie saves

the day and leaves his fatherin-law, inevitably, with…Hobson's choice.

www.rlt.org.uk

Andy Zaltzman –The Zaltgeist

Nottingham Playhouse, Nottingham

25 Jan

With the 3rd millennium almost 2.5% complete, Andy Zaltzman, one of the UK's leading satirical comedians, assesses the state of Planet Earth and its most famous and controversial species –the human race. nottinghamplayhouse.co.uk

The Good Life Adapted By Jeremy Sams

Robin Hood Theatre, Averham, Newark

28 Jan - 1 Feb

Jeremy Sams' comedy leads the well-loved BBC sitcom characters through uproarious adventures; some old, some new and often hilariously familiar. The play celebrates a time when, whatever our differences, we still managed to get on with our neighbours. This is a warm, generous, fun, piece of excellent theatrical comedy that will make you feel good, especially - but not only - if you enjoyed the original. www.rhtc.co.uk

The

Frog Prince

The Palace Theatre, Mansfield

22 Feb

Join TaleGate Theatre Productions, on a Mardi Gras adventure that is toad-ally wild! This year’s spring panto is guaranteed to be our funniest and most spectacular pantomime ever. And they lived HOPPILY ever after… Kissing a frog has started a whole new kind of adventure for our heroic princess. Join professional pantomime company, TaleGate

Theatre Productions, on a Mardi Gras adventure that is toad-ally wild! This year’s spring panto is guaranteed to be our funniest and most spectacular pantomime ever. Packed with songs, slapstick, silliness, audience participation, and all the fairytale magic of traditional pantomime! You’d be hopping mad to miss it!

mansfieldpalace.co.uk

Last Night Of The Proms

Newark Palace Theatre, Newark 8 Feb

Newark Twinning Association have just celebrated 40 years of friendship with Emmendingen, Germany. The Proms concert is the annual fundraising event which was first performed on a smaller scale nearly 40 years ago. The show will also feature the Newark and Sherwood Concert Band.

www.palacenewark.com

Su PollardStill Fully Charged

The Majestic Theatre, Retford 20 Feb

Oh eck! It’s been 50 years... Meet Su and her accompanist live on stage to celebrate her 50 years in show business with a night of hilarious laughter, fabulous songs and wonderful stories!

Su’s new one-woman show Still Fully Charged brings a national treasure face-toface with an adoring public to celebrate the amazing characters she has been fortunate enough to play, the incredible friends and colleagues she met along the way, and the staggering range of music she has performed and recorded throughout her illustrious career.

majesticretford.org

Events

Dukeries Arts Society

Civic Centre, Carlton-in-Lindrick, S81 9AP

5 Feb

‘The Legendary Lee Miller’ Speaker: Anthony Penrose

The life of Lee Miller, told with reference to those with whom she exchanged creative inspiration - Man Ray, Roland Penrose, Pablo Picasso, David E. Sherman, her father, Theodore Miller, and her son Anthony Penrose. The selection gives a definitive view by her son and biography, which has been claimed for its ability to embrace many different levels of the history of art and photography, social commentary, and emotional connection with the subject. Please note, it contains some more time images, which may be disturbing.

5 Mar

A Musical Lecture ‘ Like A Rolling Stone - Music Of The 60s. 1965 to 1969

Our speaker: Steve King. In 1965 British music dominated the charts on both sides of the Atlantic and the Beatles were blazing a trail across the world. However, in America, the civil rights and anti-war movements were gaining momentum influencing a new breed of writers and musicians; electric folk was born, and album sales started to increase exponentially. This is the story of the second half of the sixties featuring the music of the Beatles, The Rolling Stones and Bob Dylan.

For further planned lectures and details visit: www.theartssociety.org/Dukeries

The Society meet at the Civic Centre, Long Lane, Carlton-in-Lindrick, S81 9AP. Tea/Coffee is available before the Lecture which starts after notices at 10:50, finishing around 12 noon. Free car parking. Members pay an annual subscription and visitors are welcome paying at the door. For further details on lectures, study/special interest days, theatre trips or the Society in general, please contact Gill on 01909 540506 or Gordon on gordonpmcdougall@gmail.com www.theartssociety.org/Dukeries

People’s Art

New free-entry exhibition ‘People’s Art’ set to open at the Harley Gallery in 2025.

18 Jan - 13 Mar, Harley Foundation, Welbeck, Worksop

People’s Art shows the work of five contemporary artists –Ingrid Murphy, Zac Weinberg, Liaqat Rasul, Julia Griffiths Jones, and Francisca Onumah.

Each artist has created new work in response to historic pieces of folk art made by unnamed artists. These new artworks will be displayed alongside the object that inspired it: from wine glasses to a traditional Welsh quilt, to Punch and Judy doorstops.

The exhibition encourages visitors to question what defines “art” versus “craft” and how we assign value to each.

“People’s Art is a small part in the age-old art versus craft debate,” says Lisa Gee, Director of the Harley Foundation. “Our five contemporary artists may call themselves makers, but they no longer create things which can be used – instead creating modern works designed to be considered and thought about. Historic quilts are now hung on walls and called art, but who decides this – the maker or the viewer?”

People’s Art opens a space for visitors of all backgrounds to ask: When does craft become art? What gives value to an object – its function, its aesthetics, or the story it tells? And which of these objects would you live with?

Featured artists and works: Ingrid Murphy used AI and opensource digital databases to create modern interpreta-

tions of classic ceramic Wally Dogs, blending traditional ceramic skills with digital techniques.

Zac Weinberg took inspiration from Victorian dessert wine glasses to create two modern glass pieces exploring Victorian customs – from toasting to duelling.

Liaqat Rasul responded to Punch and Judy cast-iron doorstops, creating an artwork focused on domestic violence awareness.

Julia Griffiths Jones took inspiration from a 19th-century Welsh quilt, transforming textile motifs into metal.

Francisca Onumah reinterpreted a large 1900s metal kettle which was used as a shop sign, her response is made from patinated copper and references the shadows cast by the original sign.

People’s Art is a National Glass Centre touring exhibition with support from Arts Council England.

The exhibition is free to enter and there is a large, free car park. The Gallery is open Tue–Sun.

Please check www.harleyfoundation.org.uk for opening times. The Harley Foundation is on the Welbeck estate, on the A60 south of Worksop. It is 15 minutes from both the A1 and M1. www.harleyfoundation.org.uk

Images from top: Punch and Judy (Victorian cast-iron doorstops), c. 1837–1901 by Colin Davison. Detail - Liaqat Rasul. 0808 2000 247, 2024 by Colin Davison. Wally Dogs, date unknown by Colin Davison.

Inspire Libraries Events

Under 5s Workshops:

Little Creatives

Mansfield Central – 3 Jan, 7 Feb

Worksop – 4 Jan, 1 Feb

Newark – 7 Jan, 4 Feb

Retford – 7 Jan, 4 Feb

Southwell – 9 Jan, 13 Feb

Sessions at 10am & 11.15am

FREE. Help your little one to unleash their creative imagination and develop new skills with the help of our professional artists. Come and share in the active, playful, and sometimes messy fun! The Little Creatives workshop programme is continually evolving, and you can expect a different experience with each artist in the team.

Paying It Forward: A Veteran’s Story

Exhibition

Mansfield: 9 Jan – 11 Feb

FREE. An exhibition to pay tribute to our veteran community and keep their stories alive. This project embraces the ripple effect of paying it forward. Paul hopes that his acts of kindness in giving his time freely to capture images, and their backstories, will generate waves of goodwill throughout the community.

Learning Course

Researching Family History: An Introduction

Worksop – 18 Jan & 22 Feb

2025, 10am – 12pm

Are you interested in tracing your family tree but don’t know where to start? Suitable for beginners in family history, this six-week course will introduce you to the main types of records available for your research. You will discover where to locate family history documents and online information, as well as developing your research skills to help you make sense of what you find. £42 (or free - subject to eligibility criteria)

Heritage Talk: The Scandalous Marriages Of The Sherwood Aristocracy Worksop – 18 Jan, 2pm

£3. Rufford, Welbeck, Clumber, Thoresby... the ‘great houses’ of Sherwood, but the lords and ladies who lived there were often no better than the surrounding peasantry and often a good deal worse! Adrian Gray’s new book tells the story of their illicit love affairs and disastrous gambling habits, and in this talk he focuses on some of the disastrous marriages they contracted.

Family Theatre

Nottingham Playhouse presents:

The Ugly Duckling Worksop - 25 Jan, 11am

Meet the newest duckling on the pond... To everyone's surprise, they're nothing like the rest of the family. Nottingham Playhouse's brand-new version of this charming tale is full of music, creative captioning, and plenty of opportunities to join in. For children aged 3-8 years and their families. £4 members, £7 non-members

Talk:

Fungi Up Close –Stories Behind the Lens

Worksop Library – 6 Feb, 4pm

£3. Join wildlife photographer Alex Hyde to discover the wonderful world of Fungi Up Close, an exhibition on display at Worksop Library 11 Jan – 27 Feb. Discover fascinating facts about fungi and hear Alex describe tips and tricks for photographing the natural world.

Songs & Scones

Retford Library – 7 Feb, 2pm

£3. Who doesn’t love a cup of tea, a lovely scone and some social music-making? Live Music Now’s Songs & Scones programme brings people together to regularly engage with live music and connect with others in their local community over a cup of tea, a scone and uplifting live performances from professional musicians.

Family Theatre

Little Seeds Music presents: Cinderella Ice Cream Seller

Southwell – 16 Feb, 4.30pm Mansfield – 17 Feb, 10.30am Worksop – 19 Feb, 10.30am Retford – 19 Feb, 3.30pm Over the last four decades, Cinderella’s has become the kingdom’s most beloved ice cream company, with a parlour on every street corner. But how did this young girl from humble beginnings with not a penny to her name end up as a multimillionaire businesswoman with her own ice cream empire? Perfect for ice cream fans aged 5+ and their families. £4 library members, £7 non-library members.

Jazz Steps Live

‘Midnight Blue’ Live Worksop – 18 Feb, 7.30pm £13. Experience ‘Midnight Blue’ live – a 1963 jazz masterpiece on the iconic Blue Note label that blends soulful blues and jazz.

Heritage Talk: Love, Duty And Sacrifice: Annesley Hall And A Love Story That Defied Convention & Class Mansfield – 18 Feb, 2pm £3. Author Nicola Webb tells the love story of John Patricius (Patrick) Chaworth Musters born in 1860 to a wealthy landowning and mining family in Annesley, Nottinghamshire, and Mary Anne Sharpe who joined the household as a junior housemaid in 1881.

Heritage Talk: The Nottinghamshire Pit Pony Worksop Library – 19 Feb, 2pm £3. Buildings Archaeologist Janine Buckley celebrates the tremendous efforts of the county’s pit ponies. With first-hand accounts from former pony drivers and freshly discovered documentary and photographic evidence, this talk delves deeply into the lives of a workforce that gave all they had. All attendees will receive a complimentary book.

Relaxed Film Screening: Dumbo (PG) Mansfield – 19 Feb, 1.30pm £1. A young elephant, whose oversized ears enable him to fly, helps save a struggling circus, but when the circus plans a new venture, Dumbo and his friends discover dark secrets beneath its shiny veneer. These relaxed screenings are particularly suitable for people living with dementia and memory challenges, their family and friends but anyone is welcome. Please feel free to talk, sing and move during the screening.

Children’s Author Event: Create A Superstar Animal With Terrie Chilvers

Worksop – 21 Feb, 11am Mansfield – 21 Feb, 2.30pm

Join children's author Terrie Chilvers for a chapter reading of her book about a mind-reading sausage dog, followed by a workshop where children will get the chance to create their own superstar animals! Suitable for ages 5 – 10. £3 (accompanying adults FREE).

All Events:

Booking in advance is advised for all events. To book and find out further details of all the events listed here and more visit: www.inspireculture.org.uk Call 01623 677 200 Or pop in to your local library.

Events

Sherwood Pines

Sherwood Pines, Kings Clipstone, NG21 9JL

Astronomy In The Forest

24 Jan & 31 Jan

Join us for a wonderful evening exploring the night sky at Sherwood Pines! We will take a tour of the beautiful seasonal constellations and observe the planets and moons with our powerful telescopes. This event is suitable for all abilities, however if you are a beginner we will introduce you to stargazing, guide you through how to observe the night sky and give you tips about the best equipment to use. Even if the weather does not co-operate we've got plenty planned including a space journey through our galaxy and beyond using a special computer programme. There'll also be practical advice on buying and using equipment. Age suitability: 8 years +. Duration: 2 hours.

24 Jan, 7pm

Enjoy a night out in the solar system with a big moon looming large over the forest and the biggest planet of them all, Jupiter, putting on its best display for eight years. We'll also show you how to take a picture of the moon using your mobile phone as a keepsake plus we'll have colourful talks and equipment advice. Even if the weather intrudes a special tour of the constellations on a big screen will provide plenty of wow moments.

31 Jan, 7pm

We are taking a cosmic trip around mid winter sky. Weather permitting we'll be using our powerful telescopes to share fabulous views of Mars and Jupiter! We'll also tell you more about these amazing worlds and keep our eyes peeled for shooting stars and satellites scurrying overhead. We'll also venture into deep space to share some of the treasures of ancient constellations like Orion. Plus we'll have a colour beginner's talk in a warm space and a chance to learn more about stargazing via a planetarium programme, together with tips on equipment. www.forestryengland.uk

Freedom

Stephen Grey Exhibition At Cath Ray Gallery & Studios.

58b Bridgegate, Retford, DN22 7UZ. 11 Jan – 1 Mar 25

This is a memorial exhibition of the last drawings and paintings of Artist, Stephen Grey, who died in January 2024. Stephen spent a lifetime drawing as part of his job and then after retirement was flooded with commissions for drawings and paintings of people, places, and animals from various friends, acquaintances and establishments. It is only in the last few years of his life that Stephen had the freedom to produce his own pieces of work, purely for the joy of creating them.

What followed was a series of pencil or ink drawings from a very skilled hand that are often coloured with watercolour and full of character and life. These works sometimes have a background that suggests a back story, sometimes purely focused on the head and shoulders of the subject.

Each mark of the pencil or gesture of the brush brought soul to these amusing and sometimes tender images. These works and the success of larger oil paintings encouraged

Stephen to apply to ‘Portrait Artist of the Year’ and he won a place on the 2022 series where he won high praise for both his self-portrait and his portrait of Helen Sharman.

Alongside his portraits, Stephen also produced many sporting scenes (especially racehorses) and architectural works (both local buildings and the architectural features of his beloved Spain, where he lived for 14 years). Also included in the exhibition are large oil paintings of

Stephen Grey with self portrait. All imagery featured by Stephen Grey.

groups of figures along with a rather poignant, unfinished work of people queuing in an airport, which has a stillness as everyone quietly waits…

Stephen had always drawn and showed natural talent as a child. He attended a good school, but one where art was never mentioned as a career. When he left education in the 1950’s, Stephen found employment as a post boy in a large advertising agency in London. The building had several floors and he had to deliver images and files both from floor to floor and all across London. He did this as fast as possible and when his work was done, he would go up to the design floor and sit at one of the empty desks and draw. He became such a regular feature of the office that they eventually began to give him work and under the wing of the Managing Director, Stephen made his way up through the ranks of the company.

At the peak of his career in advertising, Stephen and his friend formed their own advertising company, Brown and Grey, who counted Guinness, Nissan, and The Radio Times amongst their clients. In a Letraset advertisement from the 1960’s, Stephen Grey was included in their short list of ‘the best designers around ’. His work also included TV commercials and Stephen spent several years working in the Middle East for two major airlines, handling all their publicity and advertising.

Gallery owner, Cath Ray says, “Stephen worked in London during the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s and was in the creative throng all that time, seeing all the major art exhibitions and cultural events he could. He was a fascinating person to have conversations with about art and he was very generous (and humble) with his knowledge and advice, both to myself and students at the studios. His input was invaluable when I set up the gallery in 2022 and he was the first person to agree to an exhibition of his work, even before I had premises. The resulting exhibition is still one of my most successful shows, in fact it was very nearly a sell-out. This current ‘Freedom’ exhibition is what Stephen was working towards when ill-health took over and it has been put together with the assistance and input of his widow, Valerie. I hope we have done him proud and that his final body of work inspires other creative people to have faith in their own abilities and to draw and paint exactly what they want to and express themselves with the same freedom that Stephen found in his later years.”

The exhibition continues until 1st March and all proceeds will go towards funding after-school clubs at the gallery and materials grants for those students who go on to study Art full-time.

Gallery Open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm (closes 2pm Tuesdays). Call: 0780 320 4424 or email: raybooks@msn.com for more information.

Stephen Grey in a Thames-side bar in London with Boris Karloff.

Forever Green is a vibrant restaurant and event venue nestled in 70 acres of woodland. Whether you’re after a relaxing coffee, a hearty breakfast, or a satisfying lunch, there’s something for every taste. Its cosy atmosphere makes it ideal for catching up with friends, family, or colleagues.

Beyond everyday dining, it is a beautiful choice for private and special events such as weddings, wakes, christenings, or private parties. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a larger celebration, the natural setting and personalised service will make your event truly memorable.

Visit to experience the charm and warmth of this treelined restaurant for yourself!

Monday to Friday 8am to 4pm Mother’s Day 11:30am to 2:30pm

RESTAURANT • PRIVATE HIRE • WEDDINGS • WAKES • MEETINGS

Ransom Wood Business Park, Southwell Road West,Mansfield, NG21 0HJ

Open Gardens. Snow Drops

The garden visiting season starts with a Snowdrop Festival and here in Nottinghamshire we have three eclectic snowdrop gardens opening, from a city garden, a large country farmhouse garden next to a beautiful medieval church, to an extensive, historic country estate. All three have wonderful snowdrop

Here are the Nottinghamshire gardens you can visit:

31 Jan & 2 Feb 25

1 Highfield Road, Nuthall, Nottingham. NG16 1BQ 10am-4pm

If you love snowdrops, this garden is a must see and you can share the owners Richard and Sue’s passion for and collection of snowdrops. They invite you to visit and see their collection of 600+ snowdrop varieties, with 300 varieties in the garden and many more in show benches, where you can study the varieties up close. The spring garden has lots of colour with many rare and unusual plants alongside spring flowering miniature narcissus, acers, aconites and hellebores. A collection of unusual pots and garden ornaments. Many snowdrop varieties and other plants available for sale. Refreshments including hot savoury rolls and homemade cakes available.

9 Feb 25

collections. Why not shake off the cobwebs and visit a National Garden Scheme snowdrop garden in January and February?

Remember that your garden visits helped us to donate £3.4 million pounds to our nursing and caring charities in 2023. For a full list of our beneficiaries, please visit ngs.org.uk/beneficiaries

Norwood Park, Halam Road, Southwell. NG25 0PF 11am–4pm

The grounds of Norwood Park date back to medieval times when they were part of a series of deer parks. Today a new garden on the south front of the C18 house, showcases plants for all seasons. To the west, a lime avenue lined with snowdrops and daffodils leads on to Mrs. Delaney’s Path, which winds up through woodland to an ornamental temple with sweeping views of the estate, where hot apple punch will be served. Wheelchair access, dog friendly, plants for sale, parking, refreshments, including hot food available at Norwood Park Golf Club in the grounds.

16 Feb 25

Church Farm, Church Lane, West Drayton, Retford. DN22 8EB 10.30am–4pm

This is a spring garden with a small woodland area which is carpeted with many snowdrops, aconites and cyclamen which have self seeded into the adjoining churchyard. It is a beautiful sight to see. Approximately 180 named snowdrops growing in island beds along with hellebores and daffodils. Parking, limited number of snowdrops for sale. Wheelchair access, dog friendly, refreshments.

For the latest information and Open Gardens, please visit: www.ngs.org.uk

A Unique Business Haven

Welcome to Ransom Wood Business Park

Nestled within 70 acres of lush woodland in Nottinghamshire, Ransom Wood Business Park offers a distinctive blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and contemporary business potential. This inspiring setting offers far more than just flexible office space—it’s a dynamic hub where companies can flourish, connect, and innovate. With its tranquil surroundings and modern amenities, Ransom Wood provides the ideal environment for businesses to grow, collaborate, and draw inspiration from both nature and the community around them.

Ransom Wood’s rich heritage adds a distinctive charm to its story. At the turn of the twentieth century, the site was established as a sanatorium, chosen for its peaceful woodland setting, which was believed to aid recovery. Today, the park continues this legacy, offering businesses a space to grow in a healthy and stimulating environment.

As an independent, family-run business, the park's commitment to sustainability is a cornerstone of its ethos. Ransomwood Estates UK have championed green initiatives long before other businesses have awoken to the climate crisis. Rewilding the site, protecting its unique habitats and enhancing the natural landscapes at Ransom Wood have

all been ongoing for decades. Furthermore the parks solar farm and borehole enable the site to dramatically reduce its carbon footprint.

The business park’s setting is a major draw for companies. Carefully designed offices and meeting spaces are surrounded by woodlands, offering scenic views that inspire creativity. With access to Sherwood Forest, rare birds and unique wildlife can often be spotted and people are connected with nature.

For businesses needing professional spaces for meetings or events, Birch House and Ransom Hall both offer modern, fully equipped meeting rooms. These spaces cater to a

variety of needs, from small team discussions to larger conferences, providing a comfortable and inspiring setting for collaboration and can be combined with team building events in the woodland.

A standout feature of Ransom Wood is Forever Green, the on-site restaurant nestled within the woodlands. With floor-to-ceiling windows, it creates a dining experience that feels immersed in the surrounding forest. The menu showcases fresh, locally sourced ingredients, offering everything from hearty lunches to lighter bites. Forever Green is also available for private hire, making it a perfect venue for weddings, parties, or corporate events.

Unlike other business parks, Ransom Wood has a dedicated onsite team to look after its tenants. This personal approach ensures businesses receive responsive support for day-to-day needs. The team’s hands-on care fosters a strong sense of community, where tenants feel valued and connected.

Ransomwood Estates host regular tenant events that bring people together. Every year, residents gather for a

Make 2025 the year of change.

At Ransom Wood Business Park, your new office isn’t just a workspace - it’s a place to connect, collaborate, and grow alongside a welcoming community.

Move on from the isolation of a home office or the limitations of your current workspace and join a unique environment surrounded by natural beauty.

With a focus on people and shared experiences, Ransom Wood fosters connections that make work more fulfilling. Start your next chapter in a space where you’re not just a tenant - you’re part of something bigger.

summer BBQ, enjoying delicious food while mingling with other businesses. As the year draws to a close, the park hosts festive drinks in December, with a cherished tradition of singing the “12 Days of Christmas.” These events help strengthen the bonds among tenants, creating a sense of community that goes beyond work.

With its rich history, vibrant community, and seamless integration with nature, Ransom Wood Business Park offers more than just a place to work. It’s a place where businesses can grow, people can connect, and everyone can be inspired by their surroundings. Whether you’re dining at Forever Green, enjoying Sherwood forest, attending tenant events, or utilising the meeting rooms, Ransom Wood Business Park offers a truly unique experience.

Ransom Wood Call: 01623 675304

Email: enquiries@ransomwood.co.uk www.ransomwood.co.uk

 ransomwoodbusinesspark

 Ransom Wood Business Park

Discover The Stars Sherwood Observatory's

New Planetarium & Educational Outreach

An ambitious new educational visitor attraction has opened its doors in North Nottinghamshire. The £6.8m new Sherwood Observatory and Planetarium has education at the heart of its vision, to inspire, educate and entertain all ages in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths) subjects through the wonders of Astronomy.

Set just outside Sutton-in-Ashfield, Sherwood Observatory is home to a brand new 59-seat Planetarium that provides immersive audio-visual experiences to visitors. Planetarium shows use the full dome to bring viewers into the film, with a range of programming to suit all ages.

Currently, a variety of exciting shows are available, including: We Are Aliens (narrated by Rupert Grint) and Astronaut are suitable for all ages. We Are Stars takes viewers on a journey through the origins of Earth and our solar system, whilst CAPCOM GO! Charts the Apollo program that landed the first human on the Moon more than 50 years ago. Holsts The Planets is shown in both its full original form, and a new shortened modern edition that applies new AV techniques to this classic planetary show. A diverse range of new shows will be available throughout the year at various intervals.

Booking is via their website, which also hosts a gallery of impressive astrophotograpy and the option to buy gift vouchers to pass on to family and friends.

Behind the new venue is the Mansfield and Sutton Astronomical Society, now renamed Sherwood Observatory (charity number 1187777). The charity’s members have a long history of educational outreach, previously hosting school and scout,

guides and brownie groups at the observatory telescope. The new development takes this mission to a whole new level, enabling their staff and volunteers to inspire even more young minds with their passion for astronomy.

The site also houses an exhibition on the history of human space flight in a carefully preserved Victorian reservoir in the basement of the new science centre. The original Sherwood Observatory Newtonian Telescope is on the same site, and is open to the public during open evenings and open days, which are held roughly once per month.

The charity’s educational objectives are realised through the on-site cafe, run as a work experience venue for local college students, as well as its partnership with the Air and Space Institute and other collaborations.

Looking for somewhere new and interesting to host your next event? Sherwood Observatory is also making its facilities available for private hire, so check it out if you are looking to add a sparkle to your next event.

You can explore everything Sherwood Observatory has to offer at sherwood-observatory.org.uk or by scanning the QR code here.

Page opposite: Comet Neowise, courtesy of Bryan Haynes.

This page top: The exterior of the new building at Sherwood Observatory by GF Tomlinson.

Below: The Moon viewed from Tenerife, courtesy of Steve Binns.

Right: Some of the shows currently available.

Free The Beaver! A Vision For Beavers In England & Wales

Back in August last year, The Wildlife Trusts published A vision for the return of beaversto England and Wales - outlining the case for bringing back this vital keystone species to rivers across both nations. By Erin McDaid, Head of Communications & Marketing, Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust.

Beavers are proven to have a hugely beneficial impact on wetlands and can also play an important role in flood prevention and alleviation, filtering water supplies and enhancing habitat for other wildlife.

It is now well over three years since the government department responsible for protecting and improving the environment, Defra, opened its beaver consultation and more than two years since beavers, so long absent from our landscape due to hunting, were recognised in law as a native species in England. Despite these steps, and many successful reintroductions into fenced enclosures – including our own project at Idle Valley Nature Reserve near Retford - the UK Government has repeatedly failed to put the steps in place that are needed for them to return to the wild.

Key steps include the issuing of licences for beavers to be returned to the wild in England and the release of strategic plans to facilitate beaver reintroduction. Despite previous indications from the previous government that wild releases would be authorised, we are yet to see it happen.

The Wildlife Trusts’ vision clarifies how the release of beavers into the wild – in preference to current fenced enclosures - will enable beavers to once again be a key part of our native ecology. As well as being a rightful return, this would also provide a welcome boost for our beleaguered wetlands by unleashing the power of beavers as natural wetland engineers capable of restoring wildlife habitat, breathing new life into our river systems and delivering a wealth of benefits to society.

These benefits are well documented but despite the success of projects such as ours at the Idle Valley Nature Reserve, the reintroduction of this vital keystone species has sadly stalled. The Trust is committed to utilising natural processes to enhance the wildlife habitats across the vast hectares at

Idle Valley Nature Reserve, which sits alongside the River Idle. The beaver project is just one initiative to make the site wilder and more resilient to the impacts of climate change. The beavers at Idle Valley Nature Reserve continue to transform a large part of their 58-hectare enclosure, helping a range of species from wading birds to amphibians and dragonflies.

Evidence shows that beavers help improve water quality, boost habitat and moderate the flow of water in times of flood and drought. As we face up to the climate and nature crises, we need all the help we can get and need beavers back in the wild as we look to tackle environmental challenges.

At the Idle Valley, the number of beavers in our enclosure continues to grow thanks to successful breeding by the reintroduced adults. Back in October, we announced that we’d once again captured footage of beaver kits on the trail cameras installed to monitor the group. As the numbers increase, their positive impact on the wetland habitat continues to expand. The long-term aspiration for the beaver reintroduction is to improve habitats for other species, especially the wild fowl and wading birds that are central to the reserve’s designation as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

The beavers have cleared areas within an old aspen plantation, which will enable the development of a far richer ground flora, and their chewing and gnawing action has naturally coppiced willows close to the water and within the reedbed. As the coppiced willows regenerate, the bushy regrowth will provide great habitat for species such as blackcap, willow warbler and wren. Their activity also opens up new channels for wildfowl, bittern and other birds. By creating a more diverse wetland habitat, the beaver’s activity should also support the recently reintroduced water voles at the reserve – giving them more chance of resisting pressure from non-native mink. In some parts of the enclosure the beavers have ‘ring-barked’ a number of sizeable trees, which

From top clockwise: Beaver, courtesy Russell Savory. By eating, chewing and gnawing trees, beavers create clearings, diversify woodland structure and create deadwood habitat – benefitting a range of other species, courtesy Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust. You can see the beneficial impact beavers are having for wildlife by joining a behind the scenes enclosure tour, courtesy Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust. Beaver kit nibbling a willow branch, courtesy Nick Upton. Beaver, courtesy David Parkyn.

the Trust hopes will develop into standing deadwood, one of the rarest habitats on the reserve and which is essential for declining species such as lesser spotted woodpecker, willow tit and tree-dwelling bats.

Although beavers were hunted to extinction in England and Wales as far back as the 12th century – since 2001 the Wildlife Trusts have pioneered the reintroduction of beavers to Britain since Kent Wildlife Trust released these industrious ecosystem engineers into a fenced area of fenland. Two decades later, in 2021, beavers were brought back to Nottinghamshire in the Trust’s most ambitious species focused project to date. This couldn’t have been achieved without the support of Severn Trent, Nottingham Trent University, partners such as Natural England, the EA and the Beaver Trust, and of course generous individual donors – but together, The Wildlife Trusts, have a greater long-term ambition - to see beavers established back in the wild.

The UK and Welsh Governments need to recognise that beavers are here to stay. By embracing the huge positives they deliver, wider society would be able to reap the rewards of their presence. In areas such as Devon, in addition to boosting wildlife habitat, the presence of beavers has boosted tourism and local businesses too.

Bringing back wild beavers.

To deliver against the ambition of bringing wild beavers back, The Wildlife Trusts have called on the UK and Welsh Governments to publish an ambitious beaver reintroduction

strategy; fund farmers and land managers to make more space for water on their land; support beaver management groups; confirm all existing wild beavers can remain in England and Wales and recognise the beaver as a native species in Wales with the legal protection they require.

The Wildlife Trusts are committed to working with authorities and local communities to support successful wild beaver releases across England and Wales – a commitment that aligns with the UK Government’s target to protect 30% of land for nature by 2030. The Wildlife Trusts wish to work with partners and stakeholders to ensure that Beaver Management Groups are able to ensure that people and beavers can live in harmony.

Wild beavers belong in our landscape, but in the face of unprecedented environmental challenges, it is also the obvious and sensible thing to do.

You can read 'A vision for the return of beavers to England and Wales' at wildlifetrusts.org

For further details about beavers at Idle Valley Nature Reserve, including special behind the scenes tours of the Beaver Enclosure visit nottinghamshirewildlife.org/beavers

Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust Tel: 0115 958 8242 E-mail: info@nottswt.co.uk www.nottinghamshirewildlife.org

The beavers at Idle Valley Nature Reserve near Retford have cleared parts of an old Aspen plantation, dramatically diversifying the habitat, courtesy Dr Ben Clutterbuck NTU.

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Hedgehog Habitats

How Sherwood is helping to home in on hedgehog habitats.

By Robert James, Sherwood Forest & Budby

South

Forest.

It’s that time of year when some of our wildlife is getting ready to hunker down for the cold months ahead. Hibernation is the process of saving energy and slowing down the body’s functions at a time when natural food is scarce. One of the mammals we most immediately think of when we hear the word ‘hibernation’ is the hedgehog.

A hibernating hedgehog, curled into a spiky ball tucked inside a cosy bed of leaves, is an almost quintessential image of British wildlife in winter. But today, hedgehogs are facing challenges just as fundamental as the onset of freezing temperatures and slim pickings of natural food sources.

In late October, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature updated the status of European hedgehogs on the global Red List – a directory of species’ conservation status - to ‘Near Threatened’.

It means that hedgehogs could become even more endangered unless their decline can be halted. To understand how that can be achieved, learning how many hedgehogs there may currently be is vital. As conservationists across the world raise the alarm for the plight of the hedgehog, here in Britain work has long been carried out to help reverse this decline.

Turning around such a historic fall in numbers is no small feat and can’t be done overnight, but earlier this year wildlife charities The British Hedgehog Preservation Society (BHPS) and People’s Trust for Endangered Species (PTES) launched the National Hedgehog Monitoring Programme (NHMP) which aims to find out how many hedgehogs there are in Britain, and how they’re faring.

This is now well underway, using a world first combination of trail cameras, AI and home-based volunteers called ‘spotters’. Sherwood Forest and the RSPB have played their part in the NHMP already, too, as the National Nature Reserve was chosen by NHMP researchers as a site for monitoring hedgehog numbers in a woodland environment.

While our love for hedgehogs seems to be helping to stabilise the population in urban areas, where people may create Hedgehog Highways with neighbouring gardens, build nest sites ahead of hibernation, develop wild areas and log piles to provide food and shelter and leave out water and food to supplement the hedgehogs natural diet of bugs and grubs, it is a different picture outside of our towns and cities.

Woodlands are not considered to be favoured by hedgehogs, which, as their name suggests, prefer hedgerows and open areas where they can forage and hunt for food. The decline of both hedges and food availability may be a factor

Image by Piotr Laskawski.

in the reduction in hedgehog sightings across the British countryside.

The only way of knowing how well our hedgehog population is doing, and how numbers are changing year on year, is to understand where they are and how many there are. The NHMP’s aim is to produce robust population estimates for the British hedgehog for the first time.

Working with BHPS and PTES and a range of other partners on the NHMP pilot scheme is Nottingham Trent University. The University approached the RSPB, which manages the 450-acre Sherwood Forest reserve in Nottinghamshire, to undertake a month-long survey of hedgehog activity in the Forest, as part of the project.

Dr Emma Cartledge, Research Fellow in Nottingham Trent University’s School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, said: “Nottingham Trent University was really excited to be working with RSPB Sherwood Forest as part of the NHMP. As a treasured site in the Nottinghamshire countryside, Sherwood Forest made a great addition to the project.”

“Currently, not much is known about hedgehogs in woodlands. It’s not thought to be a habitat favoured by them, but one of the aims of the survey is to find out more about how hedgehogs use different habitats.”

To try and locate any evidence of hedgehogs in the forest, a total of 30 cameras were installed for 30 days across the reserve by RSPB staff and volunteers, working with project team. Paul Cook, Warden at RSPB Sherwood Forest, said: “The RSPB is a science and evidence-led conservation charity, which is committed to protecting habitats and saving species, so we were only too happy to be involved in this project.

“The ancient oak wood pasture here at Sherwood has a variety of mammals that can be seen frequently, including deer, bats and badgers. Learning whether we have hedgehogs here too will help inform how we manage the forest for wildlife in future to ensure we can support their revival in the countryside.”

Much of our work is already focused on creating rides and edges, natural corridors for nature, as well as protecting our hedgerows, for wildlife. If the traditional farmland habitats of hedgehogs are diminishing, it may be that the reserves here can provide a rural sanctuary for them in this part of Nottinghamshire.”

With the cameras removed at the end of the month, the images were reviewed. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being used to remove human and blank images (such as those triggered by wind-blown vegetation), leaving predominantly animal images for home-based volunteers known as ‘spotters’ to identify online.

The NHMP team needs to know which of the hundreds of thousands of images contain hedgehogs, so volunteer spotters are absolutely crucial to the programme.

Dr Henrietta Pringle, National Hedgehog Monitoring Programme Coordinator for People’s Trust for Endangered Species & The British Hedgehog Preservation Society said: “Using cutting-edge AI technology to help hedgehogs is a world first in hedgehog conservation, and until now there hasn’t been a rigorous nationwide survey of them - so this project is very exciting.”

“Measuring populations year on year, in the same place, will allow us to identify populations at risk, which in time will help us to reverse the decline. The results will also show regional and habitat differences, and what factors impact them in different places, which will be incredibly useful for their long-term conservation.”

“We are incredibly grateful to all of our partners and volunteer hubs who are helping to make the NHMP possible, which will make a real difference for our hedgehogs.”

And while there was plenty of mammal activity captured on camera – deer, foxes, hares and squirrels in particular, as well as curious blue tits - there were no hedgehogs. It isn’t all bad news though. A member of RSPB staff at the Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre did report a hedgehog sighting in Forest Corner a matter of weeks after the cameras came down.

Fay Vass, CEO of The British Hedgehog Preservation Society added: “Everyone loves hedgehogs, but we recognise that not everyone is in a position to help them in the wild.

“Becoming a ‘spotter’ for the NHMP is a fantastic way for everyone to get involved in conservation from the comfort of home.

“The buzz you get when you spot a hedgehog is just wonderful, so we hope that lots of volunteers take part.”

Sherwood hopes to be hosting more monitoring work in 2025, where more ‘spotters’ will be needed.

To find out more about the National Hedgehog Monitoring Programme, including how you can get involved as a volunteer ‘spotter’, visit www.nhmp.co.uk

Get in touch.

We always like hearing from supporters or visitors to Sherwood Forest. You can email your thoughts to sherwoodforest@rspb.org.uk visitsherwood.co.uk www.rspb.org.uk

Décor Clever Gifts, gadgets & gorgeous goodies

Turn Your Home Into A Haven In 2025

By James Addenbrooke, Director, Fairfax & Porter, Bathrooms, Kitchens & Bedrooms Of Distinction.

Ah, the trifecta of domestic bliss: the kitchen, the bathroom, and the bedroom. Once merely functional spaces, they’re now the holy trinity of style, sophistication, and—let’s be honest—social media bragging rights. For 2025, the mantra is clear: luxury, elegance, and just a touch of “look at me, I’m fabulous.”

Let’s start in the kitchen, the heart of the home and, frankly, the catwalk of the culinary world. Think sleek cabinetry in moody shades—forest greens, deep navy blues—paired with striking brass or matte black fixtures. Marble is making a comeback, but not the gaudy, shiny slabs of yesteryear. Today, it’s all about honed finishes, subtle veining, and waterfall edges that scream quiet opulence.

Over in the bathroom, the spa-at-home trend reigns supreme. Picture freestanding tubs so chic they could double as modern art, and walk-in showers with floor-to-ceiling glass. Warm, neutral palettes of soft greys, taupes, and creamy whites dominate, while underfloor heating and clever mood lighting bring that five-star hotel vibe right to your morning routine.

Finally, the bedroom: your personal sanctuary. The 2025 bedroom whispers sophistication with upholstered headboards, layered textures, and soothing tones like dusty rose or muted sage. Statement lighting—pendants or oversized floor lamps— adds drama, while custom wardrobes keep the clutter at bay (or at least hidden).

Feeling inspired but unsure where to start? That’s where Fairfax & Porter step in. Whether you’re dreaming of a marble-clad oasis or a kitchen so chic you’ll forget how to cook, our team of design professionals will turn your vision into reality. From concept to completion, we’ll guide you every step of the way. So why not make your home as beautiful as your dreams?

Tall Flock Hound, £34

Stag Head, £49

Stag On A Plinth, £35

Gold Balloon Dog, £12

Roman Bust, £21

Pink Stag, £34

Winter Smart At Home

Tips on keeping the cold out and staying cosy and cost efficient this winter!

Winter can be a challenging time for homeowners, but with the right adjustments, it’s also an opportunity to create a cosy, energy-efficient, and healthy living environment. Here are 10 ideas to make your home more comfortable and efficient during the colder months.

Seal drafts & insulate windows

Prevent cold air from seeping in and warm air from escaping by sealing gaps around windows and doors. Use weatherstripping or draft stoppers to seal any obvious leaks. Consider using thermal curtains to further reduce heat loss.

Add a programmable thermostat

A programmable thermostat allows you to control your home’s temperature more efficiently, ensuring you're not wasting energy heating an empty house. Set your thermostat to lower the temperature when you're sleeping or away and warm up your home before you return.

Invest in a humidifier

Cold winter air can make your home feel drier, which can lead to skin irritation, respiratory issues, and static electricity. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, creating a more comfortable and healthier environment. Keep humidity levels between 30-50% to prevent mould growth while improving air quality.

Maintain your heating system

A well-maintained heating system is more efficient and can help avoid expensive repairs or system failure during a cold snap. Have your boiler serviced annually and consider getting your chimney cleaned if you use a fireplace.

Layer up with cosy textiles

Incorporate warm throws, wool blankets, and fluffy rugs to make your living space cosier. These additions not only provide warmth but also help improve insulation. Use area rugs on cold tile or hardwood floors to keep the chill at bay.

Upgrade insulation in key areas

Adding or improving insulation in your attic, cellar, or walls can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency, keeping warmth in and cold out. Focus on loft insulation, as up to 25% of heat loss occurs through the roof.

Use energy-efficient lighting

Shorter days mean you'll rely more on artificial lighting. LED bulbs use less energy, last longer, and emit less heat than traditional bulbs, making them perfect for winter months. Consider smart lighting that adjusts brightness based on the time of day or your preferences.

Cook more at home (and use the oven)

Cooking can not only keep you warm but can also add humidity to dry indoor air. Baking or roasting in the oven will help heat your kitchen and dining areas naturally. Make hearty winter meals like soups, casseroles, or roasted vegetables that fill your home with warmth and comforting aromas.

Create a cosy reading nook or fireplace area

Make the most of your winter evenings by setting up a cosy corner with a warm blanket, a comfy chair, and your favourite books. A fireplace or electric heater can add ambiance and extra warmth. Add dim lighting, soft music, and grab a hot drink for the perfect winter relaxation spot.

Clear gutters

Blocked gutters can cause water to back up on your roof, leading to leaks and damage. Keeping your gutters clear of debris will ensure water flows freely off your roof, this also prevents ice buildup in freezing weather.

Bonus:

Indoor plants for a healthier home

Indoor plants can improve air quality, boost mood, and add a touch of nature to your home during the colder months when you're spending more time indoors. Choose plants like snake plants or peace lilies, which thrive in low-light conditions and help purify indoor air.

By implementing these winter-friendly ideas, you'll create a more comfortable, efficient, and inviting home for the colder months—whether you're relaxing by the fire or keeping your home warm and energy-efficient.

2024 HOUSING MARKET UPDATE

All Clear For The New Year

Are you hoping to thrive in 2025? Tackling clutter - in your home and your emotionscould be just the way to do it. By Lauren White, UnJumble.

We all love the perceived fresh start that a new year brings.

That’s evident in our ongoing commitment to making (but not necessarily keeping!) New Year’s resolutions. Estimates range from about a third of the population upward making them each year, with Nottingham being one of the top scorers. In 2024, a SunLife survey found 76% of Notts folk intending to make at least one.

After the excess of Christmas, lots of us want to get fit, change our diet and eating habits, sort our finances out, start a new hobby, or have a good clearout and make space at home.

It’s interesting that we associate making space in our homes with making space in our heads and our lives. It’s not wrong - there’s certainly a deeper level to explore.

If you’re raring to go with a clearout, here are six practical tips to help you tackle clutter and the emotions attached to it.

Do what you can

It’s tempting to scratch when you’ve got an itch. But going all-in can lead to overwhelm. Better to start small, do a bit at a time, and work on ways to keep that bit clear so you have a point of success to refer to as you move onto the next.

Be kind, be mindful

The urge to ‘get sorted’ comes from the same place as ignoring clutter because it’s too much to deal with. An excellent, if sometimes challenging, practice is to work on sitting with your feelings. Let go of the judgements you’ve attached to having too much stuff or a bit of mess. Accept that things are as they are and there will be a way forward.

Think big picture

We’ve only got one beautiful planet to live on (despite some billionaires’ best efforts!). If you do declutter, do your best to do it sustainably. There’s so much beyond recycling and charity shops. Men in sheds groups for tools, food banks and social cafes, crafting groups for fabrics and oddments are all good examples.

Balance sentiment and practicality

It’s ok to keep something just because you love it. And it’s ok to let go of something that belonged to someone you love if you’ve never used it and never will. Your space must be liveable, safe, and accessible. If this is something you’ll struggle with, start somewhere where there’s less sentimentality involved.

Consideration is key

Think about the things taking up space in your home. How did they get there? It’s probably fair to say that some of it came from other people. Bear that in mind when it’s your turn to give gifts. Time is our most precious resource, so turn up, make dinner, then leave without a trace. Run someone a bath, check their tyre pressure, pet sit for them while they’re away. These things truly make a difference!

Make sure it works for you

There are so many trends, methods and so-called rules now when it comes to decluttering. They’re only good if they work for you. It’s especially important if you’re neurodivergent to use your own strategies. Don’t feel the need or pressure to follow a solution that doesn’t feel right to you. Whatever makes sense to your brain is the right way to do it.

Lauren White - Unjumble

Lauren is a Mental Health & Wellbeing Coach & Trainer, and Declutterer & Organiser For details visit: www.unjumble.uk

A Meaningful Start To Your Gardening Year

By Dene Wood, Head Gardener at Clumber Park.

January is a pivotal time for gardeners, with festivities over and day length increasing, it’s understandable that it feels like the start of a new gardening year, even if the meteorological winter runs until February.

While taking a well-earned break from weeding and mowing, it’s a great time to take stock of what worked well during the past year and while we’re at it, why not look further?

We are somehow a quarter of the way through this century already and when I think back an entire generation to concerns about millennium bugs and dot.com bubbles, it’s hard not to think about our climate then and now. For Nottinghamshire, we have seen a significant upwards trend of 0.6ºC increase during this period. By 2050 our climate in the county is set to be similar to that of Southern France and while swapping Sherwood for St. Tropez may sound appealing for some, it doesn’t come without its costs to our gardens.

Two impactful things you can do in 2025. The first is to conserve irrigation water. Using rain butts connected to

down pipes and recycling grey water from dish washing and bathing can help here. Irrigate during the cooler parts of the day and consider a moisture-trapping mulch to borders and containers. Finally, look at drought tolerant plants when selecting for new plantings. These small steps can help us prepare for the coming decade and the new challenges that come with it.

The second is to reduce peat use. Extracting carbonsequestering peat from bogs is highly damaging. The ban on amateur peat use is now in effect but the commercial ban won’t be in place until 2030. Ask for peat free plants at your nursery, this consumer demand will only help further this cause.

Here’s to another great year of gardening across Nottinghamshire. May your crops be fat, and your pests be few. Dene

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/clumberpark

Image courtesy of Jill Meads.

Just One Moment...

Creative & Unexpected Ways To Propose

A marriage proposal is one of the most significant moments in life, and it deserves to be as unique as your relationship.

While traditional proposals have their charm, adding an element of surprise or creativity can elevate the experience and leave your partner speechless. Here are some unforgettable ideas to make your proposal truly one-of-a-kind.

Destination proposal

If you’re travelling together, use the destination as part of the surprise. Plan a ‘spontaneous’ detour or an unexpected adventure (like a hot air balloon ride or hike to a secluded spot). When the moment feels right, pop the question in the most breathtaking setting, whether it's a mountaintop at sunset or a secluded beach at dawn.

Scavenger hunt adventure

Create a scavenger hunt that leads your partner to meaningful spots around your city or home. Each clue can represent a special moment in your relationship—where you first met, your first date, or your first trip together. At the final destination, you’ll be waiting with the ring, ready to ask the big question. This not only adds excitement but also personalises the experience.

A flashback with your family & Friends

Recreate your first date or another significant moment with the help of family and friends, who can play supporting roles. Whether it’s showing up at the same restaurant or having loved ones reenact a special memory, this nostalgic twist will make the proposal feel deeply meaningful.

Proposal within an activity

For a hands-on, interactive experience, consider proposing during a shared creative activity like painting, pottery, or cooking a meal together. As you’re both engaged in the process, you can sneak the ring into the mix—whether it’s hidden inside a freshly baked dessert or revealed on a canvas once the artwork is complete. It’s a fun, personal twist that captures the magic of the moment.

In the end, the most important element is your thoughtfulness and the connection you share. Choose a proposal that feels authentic to your relationship, and it will be an unforgettable moment for both of you.

The Top 5 Secrets To Successful Wedding Planning

You have just started planning your wedding celebrations and you have been busy scouring the internet for insider tips and advice on how to make your wedding absolutely amazing! Well look no further, Linzi from ‘that black & white cat’ weddings is on hand to help.

Linzi has been planning weddings for nearly ten years and is here to share with you the top five ‘insider’ secrets to successful wedding planning.

1. Set a budget

Before you do anything else, it is important to set a budget. Once you have agreed on a total figure, you can then start splitting it out into rough amounts for key suppliers e.g. venue, catering, flowers etc. Always allocate an amount for contingencies. Not only will this stop you from overspending but it also means you will not contact potential suppliers who aren’t a match for your budget.

2. Agree what is important to you both Weddings are about YOU! So, from the beginning you need to start having conversations about what is important. For example, if you both love live music getting a live band for your wedding entertainment will be top of the list. If you are both foodies, wedding catering is a priority. Ideally you need 2-3 items which are important to you both that you will make a priority on your wedding budget.

There will also be items which are important to you as individuals - ideally 1-2 each. For example, you may have always dreamed of having a string quartet when you walk down the aisle.

Imagery on this spread courtesy of Matt Andrew Photography.

3. Set up a wedding email

Take care of the wedding by dedicating your wedding its own email. Not only does this mean you can both access key correspondence, but it also means that your wedding emails are not hidden amongst your personal emails. Fancy a week off from wedding planning? Just turn off the emails on your phone! It is also great fun to think of a joint email name.

4. Create a wedding website

Wedding websites are great for sharing key information like directions, nearby accommodation, and answering frequently asked questions. Wedding websites are also great for saving time on RSVP’s as most include this along with key questions like dietary requirements. You can opt to build one yourselves or there are plenty of free wedding websites available online.

5. Have fun

Weddings should also be fun! That said, it can sometimes get stressful with organising and booking your suppliers. Do not be afraid to bring in your family and friends to help share the load. Alternatively, organise a day out with your bridal party and attend some wedding fairs, like the Unconventional Wedding Fair, for further ideas and inspiration. Get in

‘that black & white cat’ weddings Award winning wedding planning based in Nottingham. Email: hello@thatblackandwhitecat.co.uk Call: 07399 081776

At Nottingham University on Sunday 23rd February. Mention ‘MADEINN’ at the checkout for 50% off general admission tickets. For full details and to book tickets visit: unconventionalwedding.co.uk

Imagery on this spread courtesy of No Ordinary Films and Martin Cheung Photography.

Reception Ideas To Make Your Big Day Unforgettable

Weddings are a celebration of love, but the reception is where guests truly get to let loose and revel in the joy of the occasion.

For couples looking to break from tradition and craft a memorable experience for their guests, here are six unique reception ideas that are sure to make a lasting impression:

1. Whimsical garden party

Take your reception outdoors and immerse your guests in the beauty of nature with a whimsical garden-themed celebration. Picture vintage lace tablecloths, fairy lights draped through trees, and floral arrangements that are as charming as they are fragrant. Consider serving artisanal cocktails in mason jars and offering a spread of farm-to-table delicacies, all set against the backdrop of lush greenery and soft, ambient music. A garden party reception offers a relaxed and romantic atmosphere, perfect for couples who love natural beauty and vintage charm. Create a DIY flower crown station for guests to craft their own blooms during the event, adding a personal touch to the decor and giving guests a fun activity to enjoy.

2. Retro Hollywood glamour

For couples who are inspired by the golden age of cinema, a Hollywood glamour reception provides an elegant and timeless atmosphere. Think red carpets, grand chandeliers, and vintage movie posters featuring the couple as the stars. Guests can enjoy champagne served in coupe glasses while dancing to classic jazz or swing bands. Hire a photographer to capture candid "star-studded" moments and offer a photo booth with fun props for guests to channel their inner celebrities.

Set up a "Walk of Fame" photo area where guests can pose with a personalised star with their name on it for a touch of fun and glitz.

3. Rustic barn bash

For couples who crave a more laid-back, rustic vibe, a barn wedding reception delivers an intimate, yet stylish atmosphere. Think wooden tables with mismatched chairs, mason jar

The key is to infuse your personal style and love story into every detail, ensuring your celebration feels as unique and special as your relationship.

centerpieces, and soft, glowing candlelight. A barn setting can be dressed up or down to suit your aesthetic — from chic boho to country-inspired elegance. Include a bonfire for toasting marshmallows, a live country or folk band, and dancing under the stars to complete the down-home charm.

For a unique twist, arrange for a DIY pie bar where guests can create their own mini pies, adding a personalised culinary touch to the celebration.

4. Destination wedding celebration at home

If you’ve tied the knot abroad or simply want to evoke the spirit of adventure, create a destination-themed reception at home or a local venue. Replicate the ambiance of your honeymoon spot, whether it’s a Parisian café, an Italian villa, or a tropical beach resort. Decorate with elements inspired by your destination, serve cuisine from the region, and play music that transports guests to that location. You can even offer a signature cocktail or themed drink that reflects your travels together.

Send guests on a "virtual vacation" by gifting them small travel-inspired welcome packages, like mini bottles of olive oil for an Italian theme or custom beach towels for a tropical affair.

5. Interactive food stations

Transform your reception into a culinary adventure with interactive food stations that let guests get involved in their dining experience. Think sushi rolling stations, buildyour-own taco bars, or even a macaron-decorating station.

Not only does this cater to different tastes and dietary restrictions, but it also encourages conversation and fun. Guests can customise their meals, creating an engaging experience that ties together the creativity and joy of the celebration.

For a sweet touch, set up a “wedding cake station” with a variety of mini cakes, cupcakes, and toppings for guests to decorate their own desserts.

6. Midnight carnival

Bring out the inner child in your guests with a whimsical midnight carnival reception. Picture carnival games, a cotton candy machine, popcorn stands, and a vintage carousel or funfair-style photo booth. Add a touch of glamour with bold, colorful lighting and whimsical decor like balloon arches and oversized flower arrangements. For entertainment, hire a magician, acrobat, or fire-eater to thrill your guests. This playful, lively reception is perfect for couples who want to create a fun, light-hearted atmosphere and keep the party going well into the night.

Offer quirky carnival prizes as keepsakes for guests to win, such as custom-branded mini plush toys or personalised tokens.

Whether you choose a romantic garden celebration, a chic Hollywood soirée, or a playful carnival, each of these unique wedding reception ideas is designed to create lasting memories for both you and your guests.

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Left Overs?

Tasty recipes to use up your festive leftovers. By food demonstrator & home economist, Teresa Bovey.

Winter Squash & Sweet Potato Soup

Ingredients

1 medium onion, cut into 8 pieces

700g – 750g winter squash, peeled and diced weight

350g sweet potato, peeled and diced

1 carrot, peeled and diced

1 large stick of celery, diced

Garlic infused vegetable oil spray

1.2 litres hot vegetable or chicken stock

2 tbsp lemon juice

Salt and pepper

2-3 tbsp double cream or natural yoghurt (optional)

Variations

1. Reduce stock by 400mls, add a can of coconut milk and a tsp dried chilli flakes to the soup. Garnish with coriander leaves and sliced chilli or a few chilli flakes.

2. Serve the soup with assorted mixed seeds such as pumpkin, linseed, hemp and sunflower.

3. Fry 2 rashers of diced streaky bacon until crisp and sprinkle over the soup with a few left over turkey pieces and chopped parsley.

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 170ºC Fan/Gas 5

2. Place all the prepared vegetables onto a baking tray and spritz well with oil.

3. Cook for 35-40 minutes until softened.

4. Place into a food processor or liquidiser, or use a stick blender and blend with half of the hot stock.

5. Transfer into a sauce pan. Stir in the remaining stock, lemon juice and cream or yoghurt. Season to taste. Add topping of your choice before serving.

Serves 4-5

Camembert & Cranberry Toasts

Pick up a packet of the ‘bake at home’ Sourdough breadsticks or a packet of 6 crusty rolls. (I used the ‘Taste the Difference’ ones from Sainsbury's). They usually keep for a couple of weeks and are handy to have in. Try the following recipe served with a home-made soup or top with either cooked bacon or some chopped nuts and serve with a salad garnish. These can be assembled and baked in an airfryer or in the oven and are a tasty way of using up any cranberry sauce or any left-over cheese that you may have.

Ingredients

Take and bake bread sticks or rolls

Cranberry sauce

Camembert or Brie or any left over cheese

Chopped crispy bacon or chopped walnuts can also be added as toppings as an extra.

Method

1. Cut the bread sticks into slices or if using crusty rolls, slice them in half horizontally.

2. Spread a little cranberry sauce over each slice and top with slices of Camembert or Brie.

3. Place into an air fryer. Air fry at 200ºC, cook 4-6 at a time for 8-10 minutes – no preheat needed.

4. Alternatively place onto a baking sheet in a preheated oven Fan 200ºC/Gas 5 for 10-12 minutes. Can serve up to 12 depending on which type of bread used.

Mincemeat & Apple Cake

This recipe can be made in a food processor, a hand mixer or by hand. It uses up those last couple of tablespoons of mincemeat in a jar. I use a food processor for speed.

Ingredients

115g butter

115g caster sugar

2 large eggs

115g self- raising flour

1 tsp Baking Powder

1 small cooking apple (100g) sliced

2 heaped tablespoons mincemeat

2 tbsp flaked almonds

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 160ºC Fan/Gas 5.

2. Place the cooking apple and mincemeat into a small bowl and microwave for 1 & 1/2 minutes on full power. This softens the apples.

3. Place the butter and sugar into the processor and blitz for 1-2 minutes until creamed. Alternatively use a hand mixer or wooden spoon and cream until the mixture is soft and pale in colour.

4. Add the eggs one at a time and blitz or beat well.

5. Finally add the baking powder and flour.

6. Put half the mixture into an 8 inch cake tin which has a base lined with baking paper.

7. Top with the apple and mincemeat and spread over the sponge mixture.

8. Top with the remaining sponge mixture and sprinkle with flaked almonds

9. Bake for 30 minutes.

10.Once cooled dust with a little icing sugar. Serves 8

Chocolate Truffles

Ingredients

150g dark chocolate

15g butter

60mls double cream

1 tbsp Brandy or Rum Cocoa powder for dusting

Method

1. Place the chocolate, butter and cream into a small bowl and Microwave at Medium power 1½ - 2 minutes.

2. Stir well and once combined add the Brandy or Rum.

3. Leave in the refrigerator to chill.

4. Roll the chocolate ganache into small balls and coat in the cocoa powder. Makes 12 truffles

Quick Chocolate Bark

This simple idea uses up bits of dried fruit and nuts and can be varied depending what’s left in your store cupboard. Try using all dark chocolate and sprinkling over ½ tsp sea salt granules for a sweet and salty result.

Ingredients

100g dark chocolate

60g milk chocolate

20g mixed chopped nuts, eg. walnuts hazlenuts, almonds

20g dried cranberries or leftover mixed dried fruits

Method

1. Break the chocolate up into pieces, place into a bowl and Microwave for 1-2 minutes on Full Power. Alternatively place the chocolate into a bowl over a pan of simmering water until melted.

2. Once melted pour onto a medium baking sheet that has been lined with baking paper and spread it out into a thin even layer. Sprinkle over the nuts and cranberries and leave it to set in the refrigerator. It takes under an hour to set.

3. Once set and brittle break into bitesize pieces.

Serves 8

Home-Made Air Fryer Granola

This recipe uses any left over fruit and nuts that you may have and is great for breakfast or as a mid morning snack with a little natural yogurt. The addition of chia seeds helps you feel fuller for longer.

Ingredients

2 tbsp honey

1 tbsp coconut oil or butter

100g rolled oats

50g mixed seeds, eg. sunflower, pumpkin, hemp, linseed

150g mixed dried left over fruit, eg. sultanas, raisins, cranberries, figs, apricots

80g mixed nuts, eg walnuts, almonds, hazlenuts, coarsely chopped

2 tsp chia seeds

Method

1. Preheat your air fryer to 160ºC.

2. Melt 1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter into a small dish with the honey and heat for 30 sec-1 minute.

3. Mix together all the dried ingredients, add the warmed honey mixture and spread the mixture onto a greased baking tray or into an airfryer.

4. Air fryer Cook for 10 minutes, stirring halfway through cooking.

5. Alternatively oven bake in a preheated oven for 15 minutes. Makes approximately 20 heaped tablespoonfuls.

Use any combination of fruits and nuts that you have in your storecupboard.

We Recommend...

Mr & Mrs Fine Wine

This New Year, explore a variety of tipples—from crisp low-alcohol options to smooth whiskeys. A thoughtfully curated selection of wines will round out the experience, offering everything from crisp whites to full-bodied reds. It’s the perfect opportunity to savour new flavours and celebrate with style.

Forget ‘no’, go low!

A much better option for mindful sipping this New Year is to go lower in alcohol rather than missing out completely! The great news is that there are lots of options when it comes to lower alcohol wines, without compromising on flavour. A classic Portuguese white wine with a little spritz and lower level of alcohol: Vinho Verde – meaning ‘green wine’ – is surely a great New Year option? Coming from an exceptionally small wine producing region of Northern Portugal, this zippy style of crisp white is a wonderful sidekick to cured meats or even sushi. With notes of fresh white melon, lemon and elderflower, Tuesday Club Vinho Verde, £13.99, is a lovely light wine to discover for a taste of something different. Or perhaps you’re looking for ideas of how to use up some tasty leftovers from the festive season? Why not try a refreshing spritz that the Portuguese enjoy year-round –a splash of tonic in a measure of White Port? ‘Porto Tónico’ made with Eirados White Port, £17.50, could be just the New Year’s ‘pick me up’. Chin chin!

Lift those spirits!

The days may be dark still but that’s a great reason to pour a warming dram of Whisky! With so many styles available these days there’s a lot to discover whether it’s for a Burns Night gathering or an occasional a treat, the world of Whisky is growing at quite a pace with Whisky from more places that you’d imagine… such as Filey, North Yorkshire!

Filey Bay’s first Single Malt Whisky, made in Yorkshire , Filey Bay STR, £59.99 is a rich option in terms of flavour this Winter. STR stands for ‘Shaved, Toasted and Re-Charred’ – meaning that alongside some light floral and fruity red fruit flavours with a touch of vanilla, you’ll enjoy some

toasty oak. Or, for a fruitier, citrussy kick, Tobermory 12-Year-Old Whisky, £47.99, comes with a huge recommendation! The signature Whisky from this Mull based distillery, Scotland, the Whisky was aged in old Bourbon casks to add depth of flavour to the sweet aromas of vanilla and oranges. Golden in your glass and lively on the nose, this 12-Year-Old Single Malt is like sipping on creamy toffees and honey!

Tasting and contrasting is always fun so as Burns Night approaches, why not try a selection of three Speyside Single Malts and find a new favourite?

Tamdhu Whisky Gift Sets, £27.99, give you a taste of three styles to savour. Starting with a classic 12-YearOld Single Malt that’s silky amber coloured with intense, rich flavours of banana and malt you can move on to the 15-Year-Old Sherry Cask finished with its nutty notes and orange zest accents. The finale of your Whisky trio journey is an 18-Year-Old Single Malt, finished in rare wood from Oloroso casks.

Winter warmers

There’s something so special about those lazy Winter Sundays when a roast dinner is on the menu or a warming stew and the wine choices to go with are more extensive than you might think. If a slow cooked chicken casserole is your dish of the day, a New World Pinot Noir could be just the wine. From Winemakers Falasco, Uco Valley, Argentina, Hermandad Winemaker Series Pinot Noir, £28.99, produces bright aromas of cherries and strawberries, with subtle spicy notes. While Pinot Noir is usually a lighter style of wine, the freshness of this choice is balanced with some deeper notes from nine months French Oak aging - certainly a wonderful discovery this Winter!

EXPECT AWESOMENESS

What does success look like for you?

We help people do better business. Over the last 20 years we have grown into a boutique agency with creativity at its core, powered by a marketing ethos and attitude.

Our growth strategy and brand development programme is delivered through our marketing methodology, a system we have developed through years of refinement.

Ask yourself... ...who are you? What you do? Why you do it? This last question will often be the hardest to answer. We’ll help you evolve your story and, where appropriate, ‘tell’ it too. Providing a plan over time to build an audience that is invested in your brand through powerful connections, empathy, engagement, attitude and recall.

Your return on investment is realised through our return on imagination.

We work with both large and small companies. In fact, SMEs and start-ups are a big part of our business. No matter your size, leverage the experience of the company we keep.

“Createinn has been an invaluable partner in our company’s transformation. Their marketing coaching services have helped us navigate a challenging rebranding process with skill and expertise. Working with Createinn feels like having an additional member of our team who truly understands our products and goals.”

G Sales, Managing Director Rope Assemblies Ltd.

A New Year's Stroll

Discover history, charm, and tranquillity in this walk through Tickhill. By travel writer and photojournalist Sally Outram.

As we bring in the New Year, there is no better way to welcome fresh beginnings than with a leisurely stroll through Tickhill's historic and picturesque town. Nestled on the South Yorkshire and Nottinghamshire borders, Tickhill offers the perfect blend of charming streets, tranquil natural beauty, and a wealth of historical landmarks.

The trail begins at Tickhill Castle, one of England's most historically significant yet lesser-known castles.

Built shortly after the Norman Conquest, this imposing building has served as a defensive stronghold, a royal residence, and a symbol of power throughout its long and fascinating history.

The castle was constructed in the 11th century by Roger de Busli, one of William the Conqueror's trusted barons. De Busli was granted extensive lands in Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, and Yorkshire, and Tickhill became a critical administrative and military hub within his domain.

The castle's location was chosen for its strategic advantage. The high motte elevated the keep, offering far-reaching views of the surrounding countryside and protection against potential invaders. It's original layout followed the classic motte-and-bailey design, with a wooden palisade and defensive ditch.

Following Roger de Busli's death, Tickhill Castle came under royal control and played quite a significant role in the medieval power struggles of England. It was fortified with stone during the reign of King Henry I in the early 12th century, making it one of the most formidable castles in the north.

The castle frequently changed hands during periods of unrest and was held by King John, who used it as a stronghold during the early 13th century.

By the 14th century, the castle's military importance had faded, and it had become a royal residence and administrative centre.

Tickhill Castle remains an evocative landmark. The site is now privately owned and has limited public access, but it occasionally opens its gates for heritage events or guided tours. Its most striking feature is the 12th-century gatehouse, a testament to the castle's enduring presence.

If you are lucky enough to visit during one of its rare open days, Tickhill Castle offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the echoes of history still lingering in its ancient walls.

The mill pond is located near the castle's entrance, providing a peaceful retreat and a habitat for wildlife. The still waters reflect the changing seasons, surrounded by mature trees that create a tranquil setting for quiet contemplation or a leisurely walk. Ducks, swans, and other waterfowl are frequent visitors too! The pond's origins are intertwined with the castle's history and may have originally served as a moat or water source for the castle, reinforcing its defensive structures and sustaining the community within its walls.

At the heart of the town lies the Buttercross, a striking 18th-century structure symbolising the town's rich history. Located at the junction of High Street and Market Place, this Grade II-listed landmark is more than just an architectural feature; it represents Tickhill's vibrant market heritage and its role as a hub of local commerce.

The Buttercross was constructed in 1777 to replace an earlier medieval market cross. Its elegant octagonal design and central columns were specifically built to protect traders and their goods during market days, particularly those selling perishable items like butter, cheese, and other dairy products—hence its name.

Nearby, the 12th-century St Mary's Church is another mustsee landmark. This Grade I listed building boasts intricate stained-glass windows and stunning gothic architecture.

St Leonard's Hospital is another historic gem dating back to the 15th century. Originally constructed as a monastic building, it was a hospice for people with leprosy, and those in need. The hospital was first located on Spital Hill, a marshy area outside the town, but was relocated to the north side of Tickhill Market Place in 1470.

Tickhill's compact size makes it perfect for exploring on foot. The town is known for its independent shops, which line the High Street and Castlegate. It offers many opportunities to discover unique treasures, from boutique clothing stores to quaint gift shops. Food lovers will appreciate the town's welcoming cafes and traditional pubs, which offer a warm respite after a day of sightseeing.

Happy New Years Rambling!

Directions

1. Start at the ‘Castle Gate’ opposite Tickhill Mill Dam. With your back to the gate, cross over the cobbled road and join the designated footpath which edges Tickhill Mill Dam. There is iron fencing against the waters edge for part of the way. Continue to the bottom, heading for the row of cottages, you will see a small wooden bridge, cross over here and follow the path to the dam wheel at an intersection of paths.

2. Take the path to the right, following the bank side of the mill pond, continue along for a short distance until you reach its end and a stone bridge. Turn right over the bridge onto Dam Road and continue along to reach the junction with the main road.

3. Cross over here and turn right along the pavement onto Church Lane which is on your left. Proceed along Church Lane to the church and through the grave yard to the other side where you will see a gate onto an intersection. Head right onto St. Marys Gate.

4. Continue along until you reach the main road (Westgate). Turn left and proceed along the footpath, passing the library and ancient Buttercross at the junction on your right.

5. Passing the Buttercross, cross over the main road, which is now Northgate, and continue along until you reach a timber framed building - the old St. Leonards Hospital on the junction with St. Leonards Close. (Perfect photo opportunity).

6. Continue along the footpath for a short distance until you are opposite Mangham Lane to your left. Cross over here and proceed along Mangham Lane until you reach a junction. Turn left here onto St. Marys Road, you will reach the intersection near the church.

7. Cross over to the church and walk back through the grave yard, retracing your steps back through Church Lane and onto Westgate. Once at the main road, turn left and walk along the footpath until you reach the corner and junction with Castlegate. Cross over and turn right along Castlegate and back to the start point.

The basics

Distance: 3.4km – 2.1 miles

Severity: Easy

Gradient: Flat.

Approx time: 1 hour.

Stiles/Gates: None.

Maps: OS Landranger – Sheffield & Doncaster 111. OS Explorer 279.

Path: Marked stone track, grassy track, and pavement Pavement and tracks.

Start Point: Castlegate DN11 9QU

Parking: Castlegate, limited parking, however there is a carpark for shoppers off St. Mary’s Road DN11 9LZ – 3 hours free parking.

Dog friendly: Yes, on lead

Refreshments: A variety of places to eat and drink in the town.

All imagery courtesy of Sally Outram.

Finding Your ‘Success’ In 2025

Discover how positive psychology and strengths-based living can change success from chasing awards to living a meaningful, values-based life of wellbeing and fulfillment. By Chris Collins, Life Coach.

Whether it's at work or in our daily lives, our worlds often feel driven by the need to be seen to be successful. Key milestones achieved, deadlines met, and relentless ambition seem to define the order of the day, making the pursuit of ‘success’ feel like a constant uphill battle.

But what if success wasn’t an arbitrary set of finishing line to cross, but a deeply personal journey to live well? Redefining the achievement of success, not by external standards, but by discovering what truly matters to us.

As an evidence-led, neuroscience-based coach, I often draw on Positive Psychology to help with this shift in thinking, and the knowledge that it emphasises the importance of wellbeing, purpose and resilience, and at its core is the idea that success isn’t just about accumulating traditional accolades or wealth, it’s about thriving in life's many dimensions – emotional, social and spiritual.

It offers a roadmap to align our efforts with our values, creating a more individually fulfilling version of success.

One of its key principles is Strengths-Based Living, where instead of fixating on perceived weaknesses or lack of achievement, we are encouraged to identify and leverage our own unique talents.

Are you an empathetic listener, a strategic thinker, or a natural leader? Recognition of these strengths not only boosts confidence but also helps you channel your energy towards goals that feel more authentic and satisfying.

Gratitude is another cornerstone in supporting this mindset change. It’s not just a passive emotion; it rewires the brain to focus on abundance rather than scarcity. Regularly practicing gratitude - through journalling or simply pausing to reflect –enhances mental wellbeing and shifts perspective, making success feel less like continually chasing the next big thing and more like appreciating what you’ve already achieved.

Equally vital is Resilience, the ability to bounce back from setbacks, to see ‘failure’ as a stepping stone and not a dead end.

By fostering a Growth Mindset, you can learn to view challenges as opportunities for learning rather than obstacles, which not only enhances perseverance but also make the journey more meaningful.

Ultimately, Positive Psychology helps you craft your definition of success by integrating purpose and wellbeing into your life. Instead of letting society's traditional expectations dictate your goals, it empowers you to ask, What brings me joy? What aligns with my values?

By answering these questions, success transforms from an external metric to an internal compass.

Through self-awareness, gratitude, and resilience, Positive Psychology paves the way for a deeply satisfying life. Because in the end, true success is not about what you achieve; it’s about who you become along the way.

Chris Collins - ICF ACC. For further details call: 07973 179982 Email: chris_collins22@hotmail.com

You can also find booking details through instagram:  @chriscollinscoach  Chris Collins Life Coach

Life Coaching Updates

For regular updates, prices and information regarding personal and group sessions, sign-up to Chris's mailing list by emailing: chris_collins22@hotmail.com

BMW Motorrad Presents

The BMW R 12 S

Exclusive special model as a tribute to the BMW R 90 S.

With the BMW R 12 S, BMW Motorrad is expanding its Heritage range with a fitting tribute to the iconic R 90 S, which in 1973 not only set a sporty exclamation mark for BMW Motorrad with 67 hp and a top speed of 200 km/h in terms of riding dynamics.

Moreover, the then Chief Designer Hans A. Muth skilfully expressed the sporty ambitions in the design language and sent the BMW R 90 S, as the world's first production motorcycle, with a handlebar fairing designed according to aerodynamic aspects and a red-laid "90" in the R 90 S emblem of the engine, successfully into the race for the buyers' favour.

Racing successes helped the BMW R 90 S to achieve an iconic image.

It did not take long for the image of the R 90 S to also benefit from racing successes. For example, at the Production TT on the Isle of Man, where Hans-Otto Butenuth and Helmut Dähne celebrated a class victory in 1976. In the same year, Steve McLaughlin also won the prestigious 200 Miles of Daytona, and his teammate Reg Pridmore became the first AMA Superbike Champion in history. Also for this reason, an R 90 S is today, as it was then, one of the particularly sought-after BMW motorcycles.

The BMW R 12 S transfers the spirit of the R 90 S into the here and now.

More than the Concept Ninety study presented by BMW Motorrad in May 2013, the new BMW R 12 S takes up the spirit of the R 90 S in its overall concept as well as in many details and transfers it skilfully into the present day. Based on the R 12 nineT, it embodies an authentic and sporty retro bike and utilises several ingredients that make up a skilful homage to the R 90 S.

"The defining design elements of our R 12 S include the handlebar-mounted cockpit fairing with the tinted windshield, the seat with contrast stitching, and the Lavaorange metallic paint finish as a nod to the legendary R 90 S Daytona Orange from 1975. The design is perfectly complemented by details such as the red-laid 'S' on the side covers, the red double line, and the brushed and clear-lacquered aluminium surfaces of

the tank and seat hump," explains Alexander Buckan, Head of BMW Motorrad Design.

Generous standard equipment with Option 719 Wheel Classic II, Billet packs Shadow and Shadow II, Headlight Pro, Shift Assistant Pro, and much more. The claim to a sporty retro bike is underlined by the R 12 S with numerous standard product features such as the Option 719 Classic II wheels with wire spokes and shiny, naturally anodized aluminium rims, as well as other high-quality components. The handlebars and fork tubes are in black, and the components of the Billet packs Shadow and Shadow II set particularly high-quality technical accents. Components of the Billet pack Shadow are the left and right ignition coil covers, the oil filler screw, and the cylinder head covers coated in Avus black metallic matt. The Billet pack Shadow II includes the footrest system including foot brake and gear shift levers, the pillion footrests, the hand brake and clutch levers, the expansion tank covers for the front brake and clutch, as well as the handlebar end mirrors.

Further standard features include the Comfort Package, which includes Hill Start Control, Shift Assistant Pro, Heated Grips, and Cruise Control. For even more safety during night rides, the adaptive cornering light Headlight Pro ensures better illumination of the road in corners.

Comprehensive program of optional equipment from the factory and Original BMW Motorrad accessories for customisation.

The BMW R 12 S is based on the BMW R 12 nineT, and therefore all accessory products such as titanium exhaust systems, soft bags, or the navigation preparation can also be used for this motorcycle. For example, the already expressive dynamism of the lines can be further enhanced with the short rear end, which is available as an Original BMW Motorrad Accessory, and the black license plate holder attached to the swingarm. Additional factory-installed options are also available, such as Tire Pressure Control (RDC), Anti-Theft Alarm System (DWA), Intelligent Emergency Call, Connected Ride Control, and the digital display with micro-TFT display as an alternative to the classic round instruments..

For details visit: www.bmw.co.uk and www.bmw-motorrad.co.uk

Page opposite: The BMW R 12 S. This page: BMW Motorrad History R 90 S. All imagery and editorial thanks to The BMW Group, BMW Motorrad. For further details visit www.bmw.co.uk and

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297x210mm, 170gsm silk paper, folded

1000 @ £110 | 5000 @ £247

wide range of stocks and weights available, ask for details includes FREE UK mainland delivery

OUTDOOR BANNERS

2x6ft, 440gsm PVC-Free banner

Hemmed and eyeleted from £35 bespoke sizes available, contact us for a quotation

EXHIBITION STAND

850x2000mm, premium print with carry case, printed for £85 budget material option available other sizes and materials are available, ask for details

BUSINESS CARDS

POSTCARDS

POSTERS

FLYERS

STATIONERY

LEAFLETS

BROCHURES

LABELS & STICKERS

ENVELOPES

PRESENTATION FOLDERS

MENUS & PRICE LISTS

BOOKLETS

CANVAS PRINTS

PHOTOGRAPHIC PRINTS

OUTDOOR BANNERS

BARRIER COVERS

POP-UP DISPLAYS

EXHIBITION STANDS

SIGNAGE & HOARDINGS

VEHICLE DECALS

BRANDED CLOTHING and much more...