Made Lifestyle Magazine - issue 28. May/Jun 22

Welcome to the May/June Issue.

It's our May/June issue! We hope that everyone is well and enjoying the start to summer. We're back with our usual round-up of news, events and in this issue we check out a few of the amazing festivals in the region. There's quite an impressive line-up, from country fairs to retro festivals and food festivals, forest festivals, folk festivals and even aeroplane festivals too!

We're looking forward to celebrating the Platinum Jubilee, Teresa Bovey has some perfect recipes for party food to try for the occasion. In this issue our creative is ceramicist Kit Andrerson. Kit is also taking part in the Open Studios Notts which you can look forward to in the next couple of months with an extended art festival in celebration of the Platinum Jubilee.

In our Home & Garden section we have Kelly Roden from Meliora Kitchens, Bedrooms and Bathrooms in Bawtry with tips on styling children's rooms and we also have Julie Richards, Architect and Designer from Southwell, discussing spatiality within interior design and architecture.

NEWS & EVENTS HOME & GARDEN FOOD & DRINK FASHION & BEAUTY BUSINESS

Inside This Issue

News & Events

08 The Local Roundup & May/June Events.

The latest news and events from across the region.

Features

30 Dog Walkers Urged To Lead The Way...

Erin McDaid, Head of Communications & Marketing, Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust.

Home & Garden

60

Interior Design, It’s Child’s play.

Tips on creating the perfect children’s room. By Kelly Roden, owner of Meliora Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms in Bawtry.

63 Creating Perfect Spaces.

Thoughts on Spatiality by Julie Richards Architecture & Design Ltd - Specialising in Architecture, Urban Planning, Space Planning and Interior Design.

Health & Beauty

32

A Canal Side Setting.

Rod Auton tells us why he finds the canal through Retford to be so attractive.

34 Festival.

Here's just a few of the festivals that feature across the region..

65 New Habits For Health.

In this issue we're looking at taking a fresh approach to your perfume and how a little change can mean a lot.

38

42

Turning Over A New Leaf. The Leaves of Southwell brings new life to Southwell Minster.

From Camera To Kiln.

Artist Kit Anderson talks to Made about her exquisite contemporary ceramics and her exciting ceramic school.

46 Open Studios.

Bringing artists into view with inspiring exhibitions and open studios, 11-26 June.

48 Girl About Town.

Our Girl About Town reporter, GemmaLouise King, brings you neighbourhood know-how and a round up of places, people and things to look out for in Retford.

66 How To Get In Great Shape. The behavioural secrets behind building unbreakable and enjoyable fitness habits.

Pete Edwards, Thrive Health Management Ltd.

Food & Drink

69 Party Time.

This issue we have a selection of tasty nibbles and treats perfect for your party. By food demonstrator & home economist, Teresa Bovey.

Travel & Leisure

55 The Retford Trail.

In this issue we explore the Retford trail by travel writer and photojournalist Sally Outram.

News

The local roundup

Route Announced For Nottinghamshire Stage Of The Tour Of Britain Cycle Race

The eagerly anticipated Nottinghamshire stage of this year’s Tour of Britain cycle race will once again start in West Bridgford and finish in Mansfield.

It is the third time the show piece event will take place in the county and follows the hugely successful staging of the race in 2017 and 2018.

This year’s race returns to Nottinghamshire on 8 Sept and will see the fifth stage begin on Central Avenue in West Bridgford and end on Chesterfield Road South in Mansfield.

It will pass through several towns and villages in the county, including East Leake, Radcliffe-on-Trent, Calverton, Southwell, Retford and Work

sop – as well as take competi tors along the recently-opened £49 million Colliery Way Road (Gedling Access Road).

The 190km route – approxi mately 118 miles – will also take in key county landmarks and attractions such as worldfamous cricket ground Trent Bridge, the legendary Sher wood Forest and popular tour ist attraction Clumber Park.

A global television audience of millions will watch the world-famous race, with the Nottinghamshire stage at tracting 250,000 spectators

in 2018 to make it the largest sporting event in the county’s history.

It led to our area enjoying an economic boost, with £3.9 million being spent by partici pants and spectators.

Councillor John Cottee, Chairman of Nottingham shire County Council’s Com munities Committee, said he was looking forward to see ing thousands of people lin ing the route to cheer on the competitors.

He said: “The return of the Tour of Britain is fantastic news and today’s announce ment detailing the route heightens the sense of an ticipation as we prepare to welcome a world class field of riders and teams to our wonderful county.

Andrew Abrahams, Execu tive Mayor of Mansfield, said:

“Mansfield was keen to support Nottinghamshire County Council and district councils to secure the Tour of Britain for a third time, and the opportunity to host a stage finish once more in our district.

“We’d like to thank the Tour of Britain team for working with us to develop the route and enabling communities in priority neighbourhoods to experience this once in a life time opportunity to view elite sport from their doorstep.

Nineteen teams and 114 rid ers are currently scheduled to take part in the race – in cluding Mansfield’s Ross Lamb and Ollie Peckover, of Ruddington, who compete for the Ribble Weldtite Pro Cycling team.

Visit www.tourofbritain.co.uk for more information about this year’s race.

Pupils from West Bridgford Infant School are pictured with, from left, Councillor Abby Brennan, Rushcliffe Borough Council’s Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Communities and Climate Change, rider Ollie Peckover, Tour of Britain mascot ToBi, rider Ross Lamb and Councillor John Cottee, Chairman of Nottinghamshire County Council’s Communities Committee.

Step Into The Past At The Heights Of Abraham

Visitors to the Heights of Abraham this Spring are invited to hold a conversation with the past, as live actors, depicting characters from the estate’s 233 year history have been added to the summit team from now until Jubilee weekend (June 4th).

Benjamin Bryan explains: “In my day, visitors had to climb up to the summit or travel by donkey, but these flying gondolas are amazing. A hundred and eighty years ago we would light fires on top of the tower to attract cavern tour customers, and it’s stupendous to see the tours are still as popular as ever”.

Five specially commissioned willow sculpture pieces, cre ated by Caroline Gregson, and the living history actors are part of the Heights’ cel ebration of visitors from the past, which culminates with the opening of a brand new exhibition in the refurbished

Masson Pavilion in mid-May.

Mid 19th century visitor Abigail Brassington chose a tartan outfit for her day out.

“It’s all the fashion in Derby,” she explained, “After Queen Victoria’s purchase of Bal moral, everyone’s besotted with anything Scottish!” She went on to confess she was a bit baffled by modern-day visitors, who kept pointing “little boxes” at her and ask ing about selfies.

The live actors will be at the Heights Monday to Fridays until 4 Jun.

For more information go to www.heightsofabraham. com

Top image: Benjamin Bryan, (former Victorian owner of the Heights) and Derby visitor Abigail Brassington standing alongside another new attraction, one of the five willow sculptures now on display at the award-winning hilltop park.

Welbeck Abbey Brewery Range Out Now

Welbeck Abbey Brewery announces revamp of its core range, with three brand new brews inspired by tales from the Welbeck Estate.

Following careful review of their existing range of beers, and listening to customer feedback, Welbeck Abbey Brewery have decided to re duce and update their core range to just four ales. This will allow for greater avail ability of innovative ‘monthly specials’ throughout the year.

Managing Director, Claire Monk says: “After 10 years supplying beer, we felt it was time to review our core range, and as such, our brewing team have been working hard over the last three months to hone reci pes, using modern tech niques to get the very best flavours from traditional malt and hops. Having a smaller range of core beers plus more innovative specials will lend itself much better to our new bottled range, and with a joint approach across cask and bottled beer we hope to get drinkers excited about Welbeck and gain traction in areas of the market we have yet to break into.”

In a further exciting develop

ment, the brewery has had its own, in-house bottling line installed.

Brewer Tom Roe explains: “This gives us full control over how we process our beer on site. We’ve taken the decision to move away from filtered and force-car bonated bottled beers, to the more natural process of bottle-conditioning. It also means we can cut down on the use of plastic, trans portation and externally sourced C02, improving our carbon footprint, something which is important to us here at Welbeck. Having a bot tling line on-site also allows us to produce smaller, oneoff batches of beer which we are very excited about.”

The new core range includes a 5% West Coast American IPA, a crisp Continental Pale at 4.4% and a 3.7% Golden English session ale. Monthly specials will always include a dark ale as porters and stouts remain popular, as well as low strength session ales, well hopped IPAs, and everything else in between.

To find out more visit:

Falklands-40 At Memoria Barnby Moor

2022 is a year of milestones, Memoria embraces this.

The Social Butterfly Project

The Social Butterfly Project, a new business cofounded and created by Kim Yallop and Vicky Waring, is a modern twist on Day Services for adults.

Having already established a place in the community delivering high quality and award-winning home care services, both Kim and Vicky recognised that there was a gap when it came to day services.

Together they have developed a model that will put a twist on what already exists. The Social Butterfly Project is seeking to employ Group Hosts who will be able to accommodate up to four adults in their own home.

This year will see a plethora of events up and down the country to mark some very notable anniversaries and Memoria at Barnby Moor have been truly honoured in staging a significant service of commemoration on the exact same day 40-years ago in 1982 when the first British troops landed at San Carlos in the Falkland Islands after an epic 8,000-mile jour ney across the Atlantic.

During the various conflicts including Goose Green, Bluff Cove and finally Tumbledown over almost eight weeks 255 British service men would very sadly lose their lives.

At 7pm on Saturday evening 21st May the reverend Steve Williams from Worksop will lead the service and the Mili tary wives’ choir will be on site along with a bagpiper and a soloist. A bugler will take us into sunset with the last post on this most solemn of evenings.

Later this summer on 23 July, Memoria at Barnby

Moor have again been very honoured with a visit from the Queen’s Lord Lieuten ant of Nottingham Sir John Peace, who will be unveiling the grounds Platinum Jubilee Garden to mark the amazing reign of her majesty Queen Elizabeth II. There will also be a royal tea and some won derful contemporary live mu sic courtesy of the Sullivan’s sounds.

Memoria are very proud of their facilities and their amaz ing teams and their unstint ing support of charities both nationally and locally, indeed this year their support for Macmillan Cancer has ex ceeded £340,000 and they have been very generous to Child Bereavement UK and indeed at local level have been very actively support ing the Oasis Community Centre in Worksop and Bas setlaw Hospice in Retford.

For further details of every thing that is happening at Memoria Barnby Moor and across the UK please visit: www.memoria.org.uk

The visiting clients will be offered a two course home cooked meal and together as a group will decide and each contribute to the further activities they wish to undertake each day.

The Group Host will need a house accessible to those who might be living with disability as well as being a driver. Established links have already been made throughout the community with further opportunity arising everyday giving this project the support needed to be a unique approach to day services.

If you are looking for a change of job, new career or part time work, they would love to hear from you.

Get in touch by calling 01777 712711 Or email: enquiries@socialbutterflyproject.co.uk www.socialbutterflyproject.co.uk

5G And Robot Dogs At Sherwood Forest!

Eight Newark youngsters enjoyed an exclusive preview of a new Robin Hood experience, part of a world-first, county council-led research project.

It’s all thanks to Sam Davies, 11, who won a recent competition for him and classmates to trial and give their feedback on a new Robin Hood interactive holographic movie experience, part of unique research to test how 5G technology can boost tourism and the environment in a forest setting.

Nottinghamshire County Council is leading the 5G Connected Forest research, working with leading academic researchers and local businesses, which has been nominated for two national awards*.

The experience – known as ‘An Arrow Through Time’ – is being trialled to gather feedback on the visitor experience, with the aim for it to be made commercially available. It is one of, if not the world’s first ever interactive holographic movies using multi-media headsets.

The production has been put together by project partner Gooii Ltd and features an exciting cast of actors, including Black Mirror's Dominic Le Moignan as Robin, using a script co-written by BAFTA award-winning CBBC writer and producer Nick Hutchings.

Earlier this year, Sam, from King’s Church of England Primary Academy, won a Nottinghamshire County Council-led competition to name a pioneering robot dog. Sam named the robot ‘Gizmo’, who he met for first time and also had a go at controlling the robot-shaped dog, via remote control.

Gizmo is trialling how footage gathered from areas, which are usually inaccessible, can help monitor and assess the health and condition of forests, designed by experts from Birmingham City University, as part of the wider 5G Connected Forest project.

For full details visit: 5gconnectedforest.org.uk See www.madeinn.co.uk for the full story.

‘In Search of Robin Hood’ Walks

On behalf of the Robin Hood Way Association, experienced walks leader Chris Thompson is inviting Notts people to get outdoors and explore on a series of free walks.

On behalf of the Robin Hood Way Association, experienced walks leader Chris Thompson is inviting Notts people to get outdoors and explore on a series of free walks.

Chris’s walks ‘In search of Robin Hood,’ give a short taster of the Robin Hood Way - a popular long-distance pathway, which runs from Nottingham Castle to St Mary's Church Edwinstowe, where the famous outlaw is said to have married his sweetheart Maid Marian. The full trail is 105 miles long and was first created back in the 1980s.

Chris says, “During the Covid 'Lockdowns' we all realised how much good it does us to be outdoors, enjoying fresh air and exercise.

Walking is the easiest and cheapest form of exercise - no gym fees, no expensive equipment needed, just a stout pair of shoes and a waterproof.

Chris urges anyone who has suffered loneliness, or just wants to get some healthy outdoor exercise, to give walking a try.

“Guided walks in particular are a great way to meet like-minded people and make new friends. They’re ideal for anyone who isn't confident with their map reading, or doesn't feel at ease going out on their own.”

In ‘Search Of Robin Hood’ Walks: Saturdays: 14th May, 18th June, 30th July 24th Sept 2022 Free. All start from St Mary’s Parish Church, Edwinstowe, Notts, NG21 9QA at 1pm. Please reserve your place with Chris. Tel 07719 827 808

nottsrow15@outlook.com

The school children with Councillor Keith Girling, chairman of the county council’s Economic Development and Asset Man agement Committee and Councillor John Cottee, chairman of the Communities Committee.

Sam Davies enjoying test ing the equipment with his classmates.

Gizmo goes for a walk!

Bee Happy In Notts!

Hive Of Bee Sculptures Arrive In North Notts

To commemorate the start of the North Notts Nectar Trail opening, launch events took place at Retford and Worksop town centres, with organisers and local artistsresponsible for the 30 sculp tures - in attendance.

The events included an ar ray of free family activities including street entertainers, face painting and the hand ing out of wildflower seeds - in line with the trail’s aims to celebrate positive charac ter traits and educate peo ple about the importance of bees, and how people can take action to protect the natural environment.

The trail is brought to the area by North Notts BID in partnership with Bassetlaw District Council and Doncas ter and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals Charity. The en tire proceeds - including the sponsorship of sculptures by local businesses and the auction of the sculptures when the trail ends in Sep tember - will be donated to wards the hospital’s charita ble trust.

Sally Gillborn, chief execu tive at North Notts BID, said: “We were delighted to launch the North Notts Nectar Trail this past weekend, giving the

public the chance to discover the incredible sculptures across the region. This is a great opportunity to show case exciting local creative talents, as well as helping to raise the profile of business es to trail visitors from North Notts and beyond.

Sally added: “We’d like to thank all the designers, or ganisers, installers, app de velopers and local business es who have helped to bring the trail to life.”

The trail has an accompany ing interactive app to follow the sculptures and learn more about the project. Search “North Notts Nectar Trail” on the App Store or Google Play store to download.

The Nectar Trail is partfunded in partnership with Bassetlaw District Council through HM Government’s Welcome Back Fund, which is supported by the European Regional Development Fund.

To donate to Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospi tals Charity, visit: dbthcharity.co.uk/donatetoday

For more information about North Notts BID, visit: northnottsbid.co.uk

The Ornamental Bridge –Clumber Park

The Ornamental Bridge, which spans the River Poulter, was completed in 1770 as part of the creation of a grand landscape design. This iconic Grade 2* listed structure is one of the bestloved features of Clumber Park and is the site of many precious memories, includ ing proposals and engage ments, wedding photos and precious shared family times.

Having stood proudly for more than 200 years, sadly in March 2018 the Ornamental Bridge was subjected to an atrocious act of vandalism. A stolen vehicle was driven re peatedly into the stone balus trades on both sides, push ing much of the stonework into the River Poulter below.

The scene of devastation was unimaginable and there was an immediate reaction of anger, disbelief, and sadness as news of the attack spread. There were many wonder ful offers of support from lo cal visitors and contractors which confirmed just how precious Clumber Park is to many people.

Over the next three years, there was a painstaking pro cess of salvage, creation of replacement stonework and restoration work. The project was led by Architects Rod ney Melville & Partners and the repair work carried out by the skilful stonemasons of Croft Building & Conserva tion. Out of adversity came opportunity, as we were able to carry out other vital essential work to areas of the bridge whilst restoration was underway, thanks to the funds raised by supporters since the incident occurred.

In April, the finishing touches to the repair work were car ried out and the restoration works complete. New se curity measures are being considered to replace the current concrete barriers. The Ornamental Bridge has been lovingly restored to its former grandeur and once again sits proudly in the landscape of Clumber Park.

For news and events in Clumber Park, visit: /www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ clumber-park

Top image: The newly renovated Ornamental Bridge. This image: The devestaing damage caused by the vandal ism in 2018. Images by Steve Bradley, courtesy of Clumber Park.

Mansfield BID New Website!

The Mansfield Business Im provement District (BID) has recently undergone a brand refresh, which included a new logo, brand imaging, new social media sites and most significantly, a new website.

Collum Sharpe, the com pany's Marketing, PR & IT specialist, has designed the new website and Social Me dia Platforms. Collum has a background working for both large brands and small local businesses to enhance their online visibility.

The new BID website has several additional features aimed at ensuring local peo ple and visitors can quickly navigate to, from, and around our town centre, allowing as many people as possible to make use of the services, shops, hospitality and busi nesses in our town centre. The website also clearly high lights how the BID can assist town businesses. These fea tures include: Informational pages about the BID and how it helps its levy members. This includes information about services the BID team can provide. These can be requested via an online booking form. A dynamic BID area busi ness directory in which BID members can promote key information about their busi nesses and their location within the town centre. An events calendar, which will display public events that will take place in the town centre area and will be or ganised by the BID team and partners.

A system for booking first aid courses and other busi ness compliance services. A blog, which will provide visitors with up-to-date infor mation about what is going on in and around the Mans field BID area.

The Mansfield Business Im provement District (BID) CEO Jay Rowlinson said “ I am very pleased with the work completed by the BID Team since my arrival three months ago.

After a very long and difficult period for town businesses due to the Covid 19 Pan demic, our brand refresh at Mansfield BID, timed to be launched at the commence ment of the Easter Holidays highlights that we are here to give our very best support and assistance to our town centre businesses.

We have a raft of assistance and support services avail able to the businesses in our town and this exciting relaunch of our services, our business, and our brand highlights how serious we are in helping and promoting our town and the businesses within it.

We have also planned to bring some excellent events to the town this summer and it is our complete aim to increase footfall in the town and as im portantly put a smile on the faces of our town’s people as we move into the warmer summer months, continuing to bring the “feel good factor back into our town”. www.mansfieldbid.co.uk.

Events

Armed Forces Day Tribute

Mansfield Market Place 3 July, 10.30am onwards ‘Thanks and Fun’ at Mans field’s Armed Forces Day Tribute. It’s Back… after two years, you are all invited to come along and enjoy a great family day out as Mansfield pays its tribute to the Armed Forces, Mansfield Market Place and it’s FREE! The Armed Forces Day event is an opportunity for local people to show their appre ciation of servicemen and women, past and present. This well-established annual event is organised by Mans field Business Improvement District (Mansfield BID) with support from Mansfield Dis trict Council, and with addi tional match funding provid ed by the Ministry of Defence (MOD).

The day starts from 10.30am with Mansfield District Corps of Drums leading a parade with representation from all the armed forces, standard bearers and associated char ities from The Buttercross, West Gate to the Market Place. Please pick up a free flag and wave as the parade goes by.

There’s free live music and entertainment from local trio, the La di Dah’s, Rat Pack singer Darren plus captivat ing sounds from Mansfield District Corps of Drums among the attractions of the day.

Organisations supporting the day included Royal Navy Reserves, HMS Sherwood, Royal Navy Association, Mer cians, Grenadier Guards, Mansfield Sea Cadets, 384 Air cadets, Royal Air Force Association, Royal British Le gion, North Notts & Mansfield District Veterans Support Group and Help for Heroes.

Among the activities will be free Top Secret activity booklets, free children’s toy

soldier casting and painting, free glider planes, free flags, a display of vintage military vehicles, Fire Engines and a food and craft market with over 30 stalls. This will be a wonderful day for all the family. It is very im portant that we, as a commu nity, recognise the important part the Armed Forces have played and continue to play. We hope people will come along to the town centre and join in this tribute to say ‘Thank you’

Jurassic Mansfield Mansfield Town Centre

18 June, 10.30am–2.30pm Europe’s largest walking T Rex Dinosaur shakes Mans field! Calling all dinosaur lov ers to visit Mansfield town centre to enjoy a Jurassic day out.

This free event on the Mar ket Place is organised by the Mansfield BID (Mansfield Business Improvement Dis trict) for families to find out more about the world of Di nosaurs. Just follow the Di nosaur footprints leading you to the Jurassic themed event. Star of the show is Zeus, the giant T Rex reaches dizzy heights of 12ft tall and is a whopping 22ft in length! He will be secured so it is safe to watch him move around.

Free activities include dig ging up giant dinosaur bones, chisel little dinosaurs from Jurassic eggs or hatch your own dinosaur to take home. Take a photo to remember the day with our 5ft dinosaur egg and 4ft bones.

Climb on board the Jurassic Park inspired bus for more di nosaur fun and games, with a whole range of smaller dino saurs to interact with.

Pick up a free Dino wristband too!

Have a great Dino-day in the Mansfield town centre and maybe stop for a ‘Dino-burg er’ or a Dino sized drink!

These events are organised by Mansfield BID (Mansfield Business Improvement District) www.mansfieldbid.co.uk

Cave Art To Contemporary Art

The art trail linking Welbeck to Creswell Crags.

Visitors can explore the story of art – from cave paintings to contemporary visual art on the free trail leading from The Harley Gallery to nearby Creswell Crags, in a leisurely 20 minute walk.

The Harley Gallery is renowned for its contemporary visual art exhibitions – while Creswell Crags is home to Britain’s earliest cave art.

The start of the trail is marked by two commissioned horse sculptures, made from recycled materials collected on the Welbeck estate, crafted by artist Michelle Reader, based within the Harley Studios on the estate.

Michelle said, “The sculptures represent an encounter between a prehistoric species and a present-day species making the link across time between Welbeck and Creswell Crags. The contemporary animal, a racehorse inspired by the lineage of the ‘bloodyshouldered Arabian’ brought to Welbeck by Edward Harley, comes face to face with its ancestor, a wild horse found locally 40,000 years ago.”

From here, visitors can then walk the route dotted with interpretation panels and kinetic tree sculptures created by Martin Smith. The eye-catching trees will reference agricultural machinery, and their reflective, brightly

will complement their woodland walk setting.

For

visit:

Events

Armed Forces Day

Newark

19 Jun

Newark has become es tablished as the lead town in Nottinghamshire for Armed Forces Day cele brations. This year’s event will included a parade of serving and retired mili tary personnel together with armed forces Cadets.

There will also be a Craft & Artisan market taking place throughout the day accompanied by music and entertainment, food concessions, displays of military equipment and Fire & Police assets.

www.armedforcesday. org.uk/event/newarkarmed-forces-day-2

Look out for various events across the region for Armed Forces Day on www.innorthnotts.co.uk

Ethel Webb’s Japanese Gardens

Newstead Abbey

On Now until 31 Aug

An exhibition is inspired by Ethel Webb’s Japanese garden which celebrates the cross-cultural ex change between Britain and Japan during this pe riod.

This exhibition features a series of botanical illus trations loaned from the collections of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, alongside historical ma terial and works from the collections of Nottingham City Museums. newsteadabbey.org.uk

Renaissance at Kelham Hall

The Renaissance at Kelham Hall is set in 42 acres of picturesque gardens and manicured lawns, offering a balance of elegance and grandeur at every turn. The building is a stunning 19th century mansion, providing the perfect back drop for your wedding day and photos to look back on throughout your life together.

The grade 1 listed building, has just relaunched, with new owners and a brandnew management team restoring the building to its former glory. The highly skilled team, have decades of experience in launching brands and opening high value, established national venues.

From the most lavish of celebrations to more intimate events, the versatile State Rooms of the Gilbert Scott Wing overlook beautiful lawns, whilst the Great Hall and Marquee are perfect for dancing the night away with your guests. There is endless scope and flexibility to create your vision, whatever you imagine.

From your personal professional wedding planner who will assist you in arranging your perfect day to our catering team offering meals crafted from locally sourced ingredients.

Everything from canapés and plated wedding breakfasts to casual buffets and hog roasts, we can accommodate a wide variety of tastes. If you have a preferred caterer in mind, then worry not we also provide private event hire with access for your catering team to use our kitchens.

A romantic and unforgettable wedding venue that will exceed your expectations every time.

Fully licensed for wedding ceremonies, with scope for outdoor weddings, or, you can say 'I Do' at St Wilfrid’s Church which is located within our grounds.

For more details call 01636 390 500 or email events@renaissance-kelham.com www.renaissance-kelham.com

Nottingham Harmonic Choir: Seasonal Reflections

Southwell Minster, Southwell

21 May

Nottingham Harmonic Choir returns to Southwell Minster for a wonderful programme of music in cluding Fauré, Dvořák and more.

www.southwellminster.org

A knowledgeable and dedicated team of event professionals, will leave nothing to chance and guide you through every planning milestone, assuring you and your guests of an unforgettable experience, and everlasting memories.

Additional services to the bride/ groom/wedding party

Golf buggy available for during your photos to ex plore the grounds.

Private lodge onsite which is available to book for your guests.

Exclusive use of the grounds.

Lady Chapel - Ceremony Room. Images courtesy of Renaissance at Kelham Hall.

Glorious Gardens

May & June open gardens.

The National Garden Scheme relies primarily on the income generated by admissions at its garden gates and through the sale of plants, tea and cakes and it relies on the generosity of garden owners who continue to welcome visitors to their beautiful gardens.

In 2021 despite continued Covid restrictions, over £3 million was donated to nursing and caring charities and it is hoped 2022 will be a bumper fund raising year. Visiting a Nottinghamshire National Garden Scheme open garden is a chance to see beyond the garden gate, enjoy tea and cake and chat to fellow gardening enthusiasts. It is also an opportunity to glean ideas for your own garden too whilst supporting the vitally important work of the charity.

A few of the gardens opening in May in Notts.

8 May.

The Old Vicarage, Halam Hill, Halam, Near Southwell. NG22 8AX. 12pm.– 4pm. Planted over 25 years by a plantswoman with an artful eye for garden design, this 2 acre hillside garden has ma tured and is a much admired garden with open views of the countryside. New for 2022 - newly planted area at the bottom of the garden. Beautiful 12c church open just a short walk from the garden. Partial wheelchair access, dog friendly, plants sale, parking, refreshments and cashless payments available.

12 May.

Rhubarb Farm, Hardwick St. Langwith, Near Mansfield. NG20 9DR. 10.30am–3.30pm. This is a 2 acre, horticul tural, social enterprise which provides training and volunteering opportunities to 90 people from the local community. Chat with the volunteers and enjoy the garden surroundings and farm animals. Highlights include polytunnels, willow dome and arch, flower bor ders, raised beds, comfry fertiliser factory and junk sculpture. Some wheelchair

access, mobility scooter available, plants sale, park ing, refreshments, cashless payments available.

15 May.

38 Main Street, Woodbor ough, Nottingham. NG14 6EA.

1pm–5pm. Varied 3 acre garden which shines in Spring with lovely spring planting at the front of the house. To the rear a bam boo fenced Asian species area with outdoor wood fired Ofuro bath, raised rhododen dron bed, vegetable planting and greenhouse. Pond area and art studio with terrace. Plants sale, refreshments.

22 May.

Capability Barn, Gonalston Lane, Hoveringham. NG14 7JH.

11am– 4.30pm. Imaginatively planted large country garden with some thing new each year. In May visitors can enjoy wisteria, magnolias, rhododendrons, and apple blossom. A back drop of established trees, shrubs and shady paths give a charming country setting. Large vegetable/ fruit gardens with orchard and meadow. Plants sale, refreshments.

For

www.ngs.org.uk

May/June Inspire 2022 Event Listings In Your Local Libraries

The Great Nottinghamshire Local History Fair

Mansfield Central Library

15 May, 11am 3pm

Inspire are delighted to be able to host the 9th Local His tory Fair at Mansfield Central Library as a live, in-person event this year to showcase Nottinghamshire’s heritage.

At this fabulous, FREE event you can: explore local history displays, find out about family history, browse the books for sale and join us to celebrate Nottinghamshire and get hands-on with history.

Jazz Steps Live at the Libraries presents Trish Clowes: My Iris

Worksop Library

17 May, 7.30–9.30pm

Southwell Library

18 May, 7.30–9.30pm

Tickets £12. My Iris is an intense and thrilling band, gaining reviews such as “... an awesome foursome...im peccable playing" from The Guardian. Lauded for her imaginative approach to im provisation and composition, saxophonist Trish Clowes provides her bandmates with a unique platform for individ ual expression. This quartet is in the front rank of the con temporary UK jazz scene.

Best of Bassetlaw

Heritage Talk

Worksop Library

18 May, 2pm

Tickets £3. Bassetlaw is a vastly interesting but often overlooked area covering north Nottinghamshire. It contains stately homes, his toric villages and a large sec tion of the Trent valley. Adrian Gray's talk brings together some of the most interesting places in the historic land scape of this area - great scenery, romantic old houses and stories of the people who lived there.

Travelling Light Theatre Company

Present VIXEN by Matt

Grinter

Mansfield Central Library 30 May, 2pm

Tickets £3 for library mem bers or £6 for non-library members. Family theatre for ages 7+. The award-winning Travelling Light presents Vix en, an original story by Matt Grinter about a young girl who is turning into a fox. Saffi is 11 and she lives on an estate with her Dad. After being scratched by a vixen in the raincoat man’s garden, she begins to transform and dreams of running away to live with her fox family. But what about her dad and the raincoat man? Soon she will have to choose who her pack really is.

Expect to see beauty hid den in unremarkable places, friendships that don’t follow the rules, the things that unite us and a girl aching to belong. Programmed in association with The Spark Arts for Chil dren.

Headline of Your Life Letterpress Workshop

Mansfield Central Library 11 Jun, 10am – 2pm

Tickets £40. Professional Art Workshop – all materi als included. Explore let terpress with Leicester Print Workshop Tutor Theo Miller, learn how to set traditional type and print it on an Adana press. Letterpress is enjoy ing a revival and is now an ever growing craft, hobby and contemporary art form. This is your opportunity to have a taste of the traditional printer’s world, work with a contemporary Fine Artist and discover the pleasure of this wonderful print technique to make something new.

The Headline of Your Life, let terpress workshops in librar ies run alongside our Break ing the Nottinghamshire News Exhibition, celebrating news stories from the county explored through the won derful resources in our Local Studies and Nottinghamshire Archives collections.

Mary Queen of Scots – The Final Journey from Sheffield to Fotheringhay (1584 –1587)

Worksop Library

15 Jun, 2pm Heritage Talk. Tickets £3. Historian David Templeman relates the dramatic series of events leading up to and in cluding Mary Queen of Scots' trial and execution. Mary’s courage and conduct are demonstrated as her tragic story comes to its climax at Fotheringhay castle. Was she guilty?

Jazz Steps Live at the Libraries presents Rory Ingham Trio Worksop Library 14 Jun, 7.30–9.30pm Southwell Library 15 Jun, 7.30 – 9.30pm Tickets £12. A high-energy trombone-led organ trio play ing a mixture of ferociously swinging standards and ad venturous original music by all members of the group.

Rory Ingham is the winner of Rising Star in the 2017 British Jazz Awards, and the 2018 British Trombone Society award Student of The Year. The members of the trio have played with major artists such as Claire Martin, Alan Barnes, Beverley Knight and the Guy Barker Jazz Orchestra.

Brilliant Brass & Fantastic Fanfares Retford Library 18 Jun, 1pm Southwell Library 2 Jul, 3.30pm

Tickets £3 for library mem bers or £6 for non-library members. Family concert for children aged 5 – 11. A fun family concert packed with favourite brass tunes. Join Inspire Music’s Brass Quin tet as they play a selection of exciting and familiar songs including rousing Brass fan fares, lively Glenn Miller and music from the Royal Fire works. Explore the life, his tory and origins of all things

brass. After the performance meet the musicians and try out some of the instruments for yourself.

Notts Lost Words: Dialect Poetry with Andrew Graves Creative Writing Workshop

Worksop Library 18 Jun, 10am–12pm

Tickets £5. Join writer and poet Andrew Graves as he takes you on a weird and wonderful journey through the Nottinghamshire dia lect, showing you how to construct poetry and stories using old, familiar and lost terms and expressions. This will be a fun creative writing workshop aimed at all ages and levels of experience, with plenty of chat, feedback and practical activities.

Mansfield & Pinxton

Railway

Mansfield Central Library 21 Jun, 2pm Heritage Talk. Tickets £3. Over 200 years ago a plan was made to connect Mansfield to the national canal network at Pinxton. This happened at an amazing pace, but with rail not water! A horse-drawn rail way received parliamentary approval, eventually becom ing the main transport high way for all types of industry, including over twenty coal mines. Passenger services involved hosing down trucks on market days and putting seats in them! Enjoy Denis Hill's telling of the fascinating tale of an important but littleknown railway.

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.

Burning Man At Chatsworth

Huge sculptures from Burning Man, held in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert, USA will be making their UK debut at Chatsworth this spring at an ambitious and free-to-access exhibition in the Derbyshire estate’s parkland.

Radical Horizons: The Art of Burning Man at Chatsworth is a large-scale exhibition in the publicly accessible 1000 acre park surrounding the house, which sees 12 monumental sculptures from Burning Man, going on display in the UK for the first time from 9 Apr to 1 Oct.

Burning Man is a unique event that usually takes place annually in the Black Rock Desert in Nevada, USA, and Chatsworth has worked with the Burning Man team and artists to bring its distinctive culture of possibility and creativity to the Derbyshire landscape.

Chatsworth and Burning Man were introduced by Sotheby’s, who saw a synergy between the two organisations in their commitments to creativity and community. The exhibition features eight existing sculptures and four works built on site, including three new participatory sculptures that will be created in the parkland with the help of visitors and local community groups over the course of the year, mirroring the build process at Burning Man that sees teams of volunteers gathering in the desert to create new artworks.

Free to access and enjoy for all, the exhibition also benefits from a dedicated engagement programme working with communities of people who generally find Chatsworth hard to access, offering activities designed to leave a legacy of creative possibility and new connections with people.

Kim Cook, Director of Creative Initiatives at Burning Man, said: “We’ve come to understand

Chatsworth as a place to foster innovation, creativity, thoughtfulness and thinkers since its early days, something that is also central to our work and ethos at Burning Man. Our hope is that the art in the landscape will provoke joy, new ways of viewing, and be an invitation to make up your own story about meaning as you explore the beautiful expanse of Chatsworth.”

While Radical Horizons takes place in Chatsworth’s parkland, a second exhibition Living With Art We love: An exhibition presented by the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire will be taking place inside the house on now until the 9 Oct.

It features favourite items from their acquisitions over the past 40 years, few of which have been on public display, including paintings, sculpture and furniture, and including some works from the historic collection with a section dedicated to Lucian Freud in that artist’s centenary.

The Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, said: “We’re delighted to be announcing this celebratory programme for Chatsworth. The exhibition in the house is a marker in time - a record of our acquisitions that we want to share with others - while the sculptures in the park continue the great tradition of the estate as a backdrop for contemporary works. We very much hope that visitors find inspiration here in this special place.”

For full details on the exhibitions and other events please visit: www.chatsworth.org

Events

We’ll Meet Again Clumber Park, Worksop Thoresby Park. 5 Jun

A celebration of Queen Elizabeth’s Jubilee with a second World War theme. 7pm to 9pm. Audience members are encouraged to dress ac cordingly.

Tables of six and a full bar available. Tickets on sale soon! whatsonatthoresby.co.uk

Craft & Artisan Food Markets

Thoresby Park 22 May, 12 Jun & 17 Jul Craft and Artisan Food Markets are a Thoresby Park staple! Taking place several times throughout the year, our markets are full of tasty treats, hand made gifts and many other amazing products made by local vendors. The mar kets run from 10am until 4pm and are free to enter! whatsonatthoresby.co.uk

Open Days at Carriages CafeGateway to Newark Platform 1, Newark Castle Station, Newark on Trent, NG24 1BL 24 & 25 Jun

10am-4pm

Have a peek inside the wonderful Victorian Sta tion building now ex clusively available for Weddings and Private/ Corporate Events, For further details call: 01636 676129. www.CarriagesNewark. co.uk

Retford Charter Day

Retford Town Centre and Kings Park

2 May

A fantastic family day cele brating Retford! Big arena entertainment, fair rides, lots of local organisations to see and of course, the famous duck race!

At The Movies!

The latest cinema releases and live screenings of major exhibitions, famous operas and the best theatre at the Savoy Cinema in Worksop. Visit www.savoyworksop.co.uk for full listings of your most awaited movies and live screenings not to miss.

SCREENINGS

5 May - Doctor Strange In the Multiverse of Madness

Dr Stephen Strange casts a forbidden spell that opens a portal to the multiverse. However, a threat emerges that may be too big for his team to handle.

25 May - Top Gun Maverick

After more than 30 years of service as one of the Navy's top aviators, Pete "Maverick" Mitchell is where he belongs, pushing the envelope as a courageous test pilot and dodging the advancement in rank that would ground him. Training a detachment of graduates for a special assignment, Maverick must confront the ghosts of his past and his deepest fears, culminating in a mission that demands the ultimate sacrifice from those who choose to fly it.

24 June - Elvis

Baz Luhrmann's Elvis explores the life and music of Elvis Presley (Austin Butler), seen through the prism of his complicated relationship with his enigmatic manager, Colonel Tom Parker (Tom Hanks).

Special Event

20 May – A-Ha The Movie

A-ha’s hit Take On Me is still one of the most played

10 June - Jurassic World Domination

The future of mankind hangs in the balance as humans and dinosaurs coexist following the destruction of Isla Nublar.

All imagery courtesy of Savoy Cinema.

Moving Stories

Share your ‘Moving Stories’ at Bassetlaw Museum.

Bassetlaw Museum is look ing for volunteers to help with an exciting new project. The ‘Moving Stories’ exhibition aims to tell how and why peo ple came to Bassetlaw, from the earliest times, up to pre sent day.

The ‘Moving Stories’ exhibi tion will look at why people stay in a place or leave, a complex and sometimes difficult story. The museum would like to explore what this means for Bassetlaw people. The exhibition will be an op portunity for people to share their individual journeys and that of their families.

Sam Glasswell, Curator at Bassetlaw Museum said: “People have always moved from place to place, coun try to country. In prehistoric times, people followed mi grating animals, a larder on legs! The Romans conquered Britain in 43 AD for political reasons and to exploit natural

resources; Anglo-Saxons ar rived as climate change was making their homelands less inhabitable. Later, migrants came fleeing from religious persecution while others, like the Pilgrims on the May flower, had to leave to escape the persecution they suffered here. In the reign of Queen Victoria Britain became the centre of a huge Empire. The British went all over the world and people from all over the world came to Britain.”

She added: “We need help from people in Bassetlaw with our ambitious ‘Moving Sto ries’ project that will explore some of this history and help us to understand our ancient past. We would like to find out if people came to Bassetlaw from another part of Britain or another country and the rea son for the move, as well as if there is anything they miss or brought with them. If you would be prepared to share your story with our Bassetlaw

community, we would like to hear from you!”

If you are interested in tak ing part or finding out more please send an email to sam. glasswell@bassetlaw.gov.uk or call 01777 713 749. The exhibition will run from June to October at Bassetlaw Museum, Amcott House, 40 Grove Street, Retford DN22 6LD. Come and see what fas cinating history is discovered through the exhibition.

Events Platinum Jubilee Exhibition

Bassetlaw Museum, Retford 18 Jun

This exhibition commemorates the Queen’s coronation, looks back at Her Majesty’s previous Jubilees and features her visit to Worksop in 1981.

Charcoal drawings

Adam Boardman

Bassetlaw Museum, Retford

On now until 4 Jun

Adam works mainly in char coal because it allows him to work very fast and spontane ously, which suits his more improvised approach to creat ing work.

bassetlawmuseum.org.uk

he Bradley family in 1925. The Bradleys ran a scrap yard in Retford and the photograph was taken in the yard of their family home at Spital Hill, Retford, prior to emigrating to Canada in March 1925. They were thought to be the largest family group to emigrate to Canada. Some of them returned later to Retford. Image, Bassetlaw Museum.

The Harley Open Call for entries. Deadline 8 July.

Artists are being invited to submit their work for the op portunity to be shown in The Harley Gallery, in Notting hamshire.

The Harley Open Exhibition is a biennial competition that at tracts an impressive range of artists. Previous exhibitions have included work by well known names such as Olivier Leger, Chris Eckersley, Susan Isaac and Joanna Whittlebut entries are not restricted to established artists. Anyone can enter their work for consideration for the ex

hibition, whether you are a professional or a hobbyist, experienced or just starting to make art, The Harley Gallery would love to see your work. The only restrictions are that artists should be from within 100 miles of the Gallery, and entries must be original, wall based art and made within the last 2 years.

Lisa Gee, Director at The Harley Gallery, says, “What makes the Open so exciting is the range of work that we get to show. It can be really hard to get your art shown in

galleries and this exhibition levels the playing field. You don’t need a huge portfolio or exhibition list to get involved – you just need to send us some photos of your art. This means we get a brilliant, di verse range of art to exhibit, and the Open has helped us to discover some really tal ented artists.”

This year, the Gallery expects to show around 150 artworks in the exhibition, and as an added bonus there are prizes which include a top prize of £2,000. - Entries to the Open

Exhibition can be submitted until 8 July on The Harley Gal lery website, with a further ‘real-life’ round of judging taking place in early August. Entries cost £10 each, and artists can submit up to two artworks. - The Harley Open Exhibition will be on show between 6 August and 23 October. The Gallery is open Tuesday – Sunday, with free admission with free parking.

For further details and the on line entry form please visit: www.harleygallery.co.uk/ exhibition/harley-open-22/

EXPECT AWESOMENESS

What does success look like for you?

We help people do better business. Over the last 17 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.

www.createinn.com hello@createinn.com 01777 712610

The Arts

Events

The Art of the Cartoonist

4 May, 11am

Civic Centre, Long Lane, Carlton-in-Lindrick, S821 9AP.

Speaker: Harry Venning

Harry Venning has been a professional cartoonist for 30 years, during which time he has provided cartoons for several high profile UK publi cations (The Guardian, Radio Times) as well as for countless more obscure titles (British Journal Of Wound Care). He was awarded UK Strip Cartoonist Of The Year for his Guardian strip Clare In The Community, which he adapted into a Radio 4 sitcom.

Harry will be tracing the histo ry of his profession with exam ples from early practitioners like Cruickshank and Hogarth, to more contemporary art ists such as Giles and Schulz, bringing events right up to date with cartoons produced fresh on the page that day! Yes, Harry will be drawing live. Prepare to hear some tricks of his trade, learn where to put eyebrows for maximum effect and discover exactly what the eskimo brothers said in The Funniest Joke Ever (possibly)..

Raphael, A God Amongst Painters

1 Jun, 11am

Speaker Chantal BrothertonRatcliffe.

Raphael’s is one of the most famous names in art history, and until the late 19th century to emulate him was the goal for most artists succeeding him. Yet today he is not as well known as this might suggest. Is this because his biography is less dramatic than Caravaggio’s? or his career less tormented than Michelangelo’s? or is it because his qualities are difficult to define - the elusive qualities of grace, harmony and idealised beauty.

This lecture asks “what is the magic of Raphael?” It takes a fresh look at Raphael, exploring what he achieved, and looking, as if for the first time, at the beauty and grace of his work. It will examine his astonishing ability to grow and transform himself over the years of his career, and whose tragically early death leaves us wondering – had he lived, what would have come next?

N.B. The next Lecture on 6 July is about Fashion, Fury and Femi nism: Mrs Pankhurst’s Purple Feather

by Speaker Tessa Boase For full details for both talks above and to book, please visit: www.theartssociety.org/Dukeries

Although we endeavour to ensure that all of the events listed here are correct it is advisable to check before the event in case of alterations or planning changes.

ShowTime

It's show time, grab your popcorn, icecreams and enjoy all the fun of the theatre here in Nottinghamshire.

Jurassic Live

Newark Palace Theatre 2-3 June

Meet and greet dinosaurs from the cretaceous and Jurassic worlds in this edu cational onstage show fea turing Blue, our velociraptor as well as stegosaurus, tri ceratops, apatosaurus and Europe’s largest t-rex! The fantastic dinosaur pup pets in the show contain the latest ground-breaking new technology, which make them the most realistic you’ve ever seen, with blink ing eyes, moving mouths, and fully functioning and moving bodies. An amazing team of professional ac tors, advanced puppeteers and an award winning props department create the best Jurassic experience for all!. www.palacenewarktickets. com

Kinky Boots

The Musical Majestic Theatre, Retford 5-7 May.

To book call: 01777 706866 Retford Musical Theatre Company is delighted to present this exhilarating true story about a strug gling shoe factory that will lift your spirits to highheeled heights.Kinky Boots will have you dancing in the aisles and discovering why, sometimes, the best way to fit in... is to stand out! www.majesticretford.org

Ooh…And Another Thing… An Evening with Su Pollard!

Mansfield Palace Theatre 21 Jun.

Stories, stand up and songs, followed by a candid and hi larious Q and A session with the audience, Su Pollard shows once again why she is a national treasure in the feel good show of 2022. mansfieldpalacetheatre. ticketsolve.com

On The Rocks Robin Hood Theatre, Averham, NG23 5RB 14-18 Jun.

A modern comedy, from the author of Sitting Pretty, about one of Nottingham shire's famous writers.

In Spring 1916 D H Law rence and his wife Frieda have found a new life for themselves in the remote Cornish village of Zennor. Based on true events, this is the story of women, and men, in love. An uplifting and passionate comedy about four friends trying to live together, two marriages struggling for survival and a group of writers striving for creativity in the midst of war. www.rhtc.co.uk

Dog Walkers Urged To Lead The Way...

Awalk in nature can be an uplifting experience. For many, any walk is enhanced by the company of a favourite pooch; but when visiting nature reserves, areas of open countryside, and even beaches, it pays to keep your dog on a short lead to prevent disturbing wildlife.

As a dog owner myself, I appreciate that dogs do sometimes need to be able to run free and the sight of a dog running at full pelt or galloping around excitedly is a delight to see, but our much loved pets can be an unwitting menace to both wildlife and livestock, especially at this time of year.

One of the biggest areas of potential conflict is dogs disturbing ground nesting birds. All it takes is for a dog to do what dogs do and wander off the path on a nature reserve to potentially scare away an adult bird or even trample a nest.

Whilst the law says that you must keep your dog on a lead no longer than 2 metres between 1st March and 31st July - when on any open access land to protect ground-nesting birds – there is no such law applying to sites like Idle Valley Nature Reserve, despite its protected status, the nearby Daneshill Lakes or the Trust’s small reserves such as Treswell Wood. At such sites we rely upon the good will of visitors to keep their pets under control, but with more pressure on local greenspaces since the lockdowns of 2020 and 2021 and with upwards of 2 million more dogs in the UK, now is an ideal time to highlight why keeping dogs on a lead is important.

As people explore our wonderful countryside, larger parks and nature reserves, the celebrated song of the skylark and bubbling call of curlew are welcome sounds of spring. These birds, whose numbers are in worrying decline, are now busy making their delicate nests tucked away on the long grass; but all too often an exuberant or just inquisitive dog wandering through grass or heather can wreak havoc for wildlife.

If a female bird is scared off, then eggs can become chilled or chicks can quickly perish through cold and hunger. If a male is disturbed or killed it could mean that the female and chicks all starve, potentially wiping out a whole family.

When you consider that many species that can easily be disturbed by dogs, such as willow warblers, have travelled all the way from Africa to breed, isn’t it only fair that we give them every chance of success by keeping our dogs on leads when visiting nature reserves and even other sites at this time of year.

Speaking about the issue, James Brittain-McVey, lead guitarist of The Vamps, dog owner and ambassador for The Wildlife Trusts said recently: “I’ve learnt, as a rescue dog owner, the importance of keeping your dog under control at all times. And at this time of year, it’s especially important to remember that we can all play our part in helping birds breed successfully by keeping dogs on short leads in wild places – especially when so many species are having such a hard time.”

Erin McDaid, Head of Communications & Marketing, Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust.

Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust

Whether you’re visiting moorland, fields, urban parks or the beach, The Wildlife Trusts are calling on dog walkers to keep their dogs on short leads to help ground-nesting birds throughout spring and summer. Many species of birds nest on the ground –or just above it, and these can be hard to see – putting them at increased risk of trampling, disturbance, and harm.

On sites such as Idle Valley Nature Reserve and even more so at our Attenborough Reserve where the grassland is restricted to relatively narrow areas between footpaths and water bodies, it can be very easy for dogs to disturb wildlife, even when on a long or retractable lead.

When so many of our species are having such a hard time, we can all play our part in helping birds breed successfully by keeping dogs on short leads when visiting wild places.

Down the years I’ve had many people ask why we don’t simply ban dogs from our nature reserves, after all, other conservation charities do, or at least place much greater restrictions on where dogs can and can’t go. Whilst managing different people’s expectations can be tricky we’ve always chosen to allow dogs, but asked that people keep them under close control and preferably on a lead. At this time of year, with ground nesting birds at their most vulnerable and lambs from our conservation grazing flock about to return to nature reserves across the county from our lambing base at Idle Valley, keeping dogs on a short lead is more vital than ever.

We firmly believe that our nature reserves are for wildlife and people and many visitors want to bring their dogs. Many of our team, not just me, have dogs, so we understand the pleasure that a walk with your furry friend can bring, but allowing dogs to run loose on nature reserves can be devastating for wildlife, particularly in spring when species are breeding and vulnerable, so we’re launching a mini campaign to help get the message across.

In addition to asking visitors to keep dogs on a short lead we’re asking dog walkers to be sensitive by sticking to paths – and properly disposing of dog poo. Wildlife is already under enormous pressure – and by keeping our dogs in check we can help stop making matters worse.

Many people naturally assume that birds nest high up in trees and hedgerows but a surprising number make their nests directly on the ground or just above it in low bushes, long grass or reedbeds. Willow warblers tend to tuck themselves away at the base of trees and bushes in woods or open areas with a few scattered trees whilst meadow pipits choose to hide their precious eggs in grassy tussocks in meadows or on commons.

Nightjars lay their eggs directly onto the ground in heathlands and have a real stronghold in our treasured Sherwood Forest, but disturbance by dogs can be a big issue in places such as this where site managers have to juggle conservation objectives with huge demand for public access. Oystercatcher, ringed plover and little tern eggs and chicks are brilliantly camouflaged amongst pebbles and shore areas making them easy to disturb on wetland sites such as Idle Valley Nature Reserve or when you are visiting the coast – so it’s best to keep dogs on leads on nature reserves, all beaches and when in the wider countryside at least until chicks have fledged in September.

Keeping dogs on short leads also benefits other wildlife that can be harmed or disturbed by enthusiastic pooches – from seals to snakes and amphibians. We’re not alone in suffering the impacts of disturbance caused by dogs. Our colleagues at Cumbria Wildlife Trust reported that seals had been disturbed by dogs at their South Walney nature reserve earlier this year and there are now fears that seal numbers will be down as a result this season.

By keeping your dog on a lead you’ll also reduce the negative impacts of dog poo and urine on delicate plants and wildflowers by reducing it to a smaller area. You’ll be preventing your dog jumping in lakes and rivers where they disturb water birds and other aquatic wildlife and the insecticides used in dog flea treatments can also pollute the water.· Many lakes also have issues with toxic algae – so its always better to keep your dog out of the water – especially on sites designated for wildlife.

For further details about visiting our nature reserves with your dogs go to nottinghamshirewildlife.org/dogs-nature-reserves

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

Page opposite: James Brittain-McVey and Kirstie Brittain-McVey with Moochie.

This page from left: Common Tern Chicks. Trio of displaying Oystercatchers cour tesy of Mike Vickers. Meadow Pipit chick, image courtesy of Richard Rogers.

A Canal Side Setting

Rod Auton tells us why he finds the canal through Retford to be so attractive. T

he 46 miles of the Chesterfield Canal vary hugely. There are places where you can’t see a house. You go past open fields and dense woods, delightful pubs and ancient bridges, but it also passes through several towns and villages.

There are four major towns. Chesterfield is much the largest, but the canal there runs through a green corridor and you are very close to the famous Crooked Spire before it becomes really urbanised.

The next town is Killamarsh, but the canal has not yet been restored there; indeed 30 houses were built on the original line of the canal in the 1970s. The new route will be really exciting, but we will have to wait a few years before that can be enjoyed.

Worksop has massive potential and includes the magnificent Straddle Warehouse, but unfortunately much of the town turns its back on the canal, especially near Bridge Street and Town Lock.

Retford is the complete opposite. It has an enchanting canalscape. All the way along you will see houses that have patios or decks built right next to the canal at the end of their gardens so that the residents can enjoy the view, the wildlife, the boats and the tranquillity.

Approaching the town from the west you come under Woodcock’s Bridge and immediately arrive at West Retford Lock.

The first boat to reach Retford, loaded with coal, arrived at here on 1st November 1774. By April 1776 the canal had been opened to the east right through to West Stockwith on the River Trent. The following year it was fully opened west to Chesterfield.

After the lock, you pass the new houses of Elizabethan Gardens on the offbank where the Elizabethan High School used to stand. To your left is King’s Park. Under the Inkerman footbridge, you come to some lovely old houses including a warehouse which has lettering saying “… & Sons, Furniture Repository” but I can’t make out the name!

Round a corner you come upon three sets of narrows. These are all aqueducts. The middle one carries the canal across the River Idle. Next to it is a very insignificant little brick building which houses a pump to top the canal up with water from the river.

For 200 years the canal got water from the Idle via a feeder – a mini-canal. Then the river was dredged, and the bed was lowered as a flood prevention measure. This meant that the river was too low for the feeder to work, so it was abandoned. It has since been built over and is almost impossible to trace.

It came off the River Idle just south of Goosemoor Farm Produce, near Ordsall. It then ran through what is now one of their greenhouses, across Goosemoor Lane where it becomes Whitehouses Road, east of Goosemoor Park, under the railway, behind Adrian’s Walk, behind Whinney Moor Way, under the railway, through Perry’s car sales, east of the old King Edward VI school, along what is now a pathway, under Dominie Cross Road, coming out at the end of Osberton Road where there are now some garages. Peep over the fences and you will see the canal.

Back to the canal, we now arrive at Town Lock and some very interesting buildings. The newish looking red brick building just above the lock is in fact the old Manchester, Sheffield & Lincolnshire Railway warehouse that was converted into luxury

flats in 2017. (The MS&LR had bought the canal in 1847.) On the opposite side is the old lock keeper’s house. If you cross the lock and go down the pathway, you will see the fabulous Retford canal mural, unveiled in 2019.

Below the lock is Corporation Wharf. This used to be the centre of canal operations and was a really busy, dirty place. There would have been boats arriving, loading and unloading constantly. Packet boats would come from outlying villages on market days bringing shoppers and people selling their wares.

There were lots of warehouses, sheds, stables etc. Retford Little Theatre and the Fire Station occupy much of this land nowadays. The Bay Tree Café is in an old warehouse. On the opposite bank, Retford Mariners’ marina includes a crane that is Grade ll listed and a dry dock that has been filled in.

As late as the 1930s, wheat and grain were still being delivered here, collected from farms along the canal. Flour arrived from the Albion Mill at Worksop.

The boatmen used to stay at the nearby inns and the allimportant towing horses were looked after in the stables.

Slightly further on, you pass under Carolgate Bridge and arrive at the site of a basin. There is no sign of it now, but it was just before the modern Arlington Way Bridge. It was constructed in 1883 as a private venture by Mr Taylor White for his chemical works. The site is now occupied by Jewson and the big shed with a green roof almost exactly fits the footprint of the old basin.

Past Spa Common, you come to an old house in grey brick. The feeder mentioned above came out on the opposite bank. Now it is just a tiny bit of scrub land with fences all round it.

Further on you go under Grove Mill bridge and past the snooker hall that used to be another warehouse. The next bend is the site of the notorious ‘pulling the plug’ incident when the canal was accidentally drained in 1978; for the full story see p.28 of issue 17, the July/August 2020 edition of MADE

The canal now becomes more suburban passing more modern houses and Leverton Road Recreation Ground on the towpath side and open fields on the offside.

If you have never walked along this section of the canal, I can heartily recommend it.

Rod Auton

Rod is the Publicity Officer for the Chesterfield Canal Trust which is campaigning to complete the restoration of the canal by its 250th Anniversary in 2027. For further information go to www.chesterfield-canal-trust.org.uk. All imagery courtesy of The Chesterfield Canal Trust (various photographers).

Page oppposite: Grove Mill warehouse by John Lower. This page from top: River Idle aqueduct. Seth Ellis by the furniture repository. Houses facing the canal. MS&LR warehouse 1910 (Bassetlaw Museum). Renovated warehouse.

FESTIVAL

Here's just a few of the festivals that feature across the region in the next few months! So grab some tickets and get out and enjoy the fun! There's everything from food & drink, to music, to all things Retro.

Look out for festivals and exciting music and arts events across the region on www.innorthnotts.co.uk.

Nottinghamshire County Show

Newark Showground, Newark 14 May.

Rediscover your farming roots! This year the Nottinghamshire County Show is tak ing the show back to its agricultural roots within the rural community of the Mid lands, celebrating everything from live stock, equine, countryside competitions with trade stands, local food producers and craft stalls. A county show isn't com plete without the animals! You can see The Hogg Show, Farm Animals, Fur and Feather Area, Pony Club Show Jumping plus many more!

Dating back to 1799, Newark and Not tinghamshire Agricultural Society (NNAS) is a registered charity dedicated to pro mote, celebrate and champion agriculture across the Midlands region. www.nottinghamshirecountyshow.com www.nottinghamshirecountyshow.com

Funtopia, ‘the BIG day out for little kids’ Bracebridge Recreation Ground, Priorswell Road, Worksop S80 2BU 21 May & 31 Jul, 11am-5pm daily.

Funtopia is a fantastic fun-packed event which is specifically designed for under 10’s. Filled with high energy Inflatables, Sumo Suits, Nerf Wars, Driving School, an Under 5’s Area, Crafty Corner, Role Play Areas, Circus Skills, Fun Workshops and more!

And it’s not just for kids, we encourage all parents to join in the fun as well! Grown ups can have a bounce with their little ones on our parents and tots castle, race them on the bungee run, or get some pay back on Nerf Wars!

Funtopia is unlimited play, so when you've purchased your wristband you can go on any activity as many times as you like - all included in the price! Please note: some activities have height/age restrictions at tached.

Funtopia is visiting a different location every weekend plus weekdays during the school holidays. Full tour dates can be viewed on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/funtopiauk

Retro Festival

Newark Showground, Newark 10/11/12 Jun.

There is plenty planned to keep visitors entertained and amused at this year’s Ret ro Festival. A popular festival on the circuit with family fun planned across the whole weekend.

Retro Festival at Newark Showground has live acts, classic vehicles, stalls and even fly pasts. Said to be the largest festival of all things vintage in the world.

Visitors will have the chance to jump and jive at a tea dance and set their senses alight at the burlesque cabaret show. There will also be the chance to adore the classic and vintage cars on display; browse the vintage clothing and retro treasures on offer with stalls a plenty. Not only are there plenty of live acts across the various stages, the showground will be a buzzing hive of retro goodies to explore. Lastly there’s camping available for those who are ready to rest and relax after all the fun!

For tickets, more about the festival and live acts as well as details about Retro Festival visit: www.retrofestival.co.uk

Unlocked Festival

Newark Showground, Newark 17/18/19 Jun

Get set for a full weekend of euphoric memories as you sing and dance along to our tremendous line-up of live acts. Just imagine some of your favourite music sweeping across our site with true sum mer vibes. We will be bringing you a bou tique festival experience unlike any other. Prepare to be dazzled.

Acts include Heather Small, Ministry Of Sound, Sonia, Big Brovaz, Phats & Small, Go West, Craig Charles Funk & Soul Club and many more... www.unlockedfest.co.uk

Major Oak Woodland Festival

Sherwood Forest, Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre 25/26 Jun

The Major Oak Woodland Festival Is Back!

The Sherwood Forest Trust charity based in Edwinstowe and the RSPB (who man age the Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre) are joining forces to bring the popular Ma jor Oak Woodland Festival back to Sher wood Forest this summer.

The FREE event will take place on 25 & 26 June, near the Major Oak and around the woodland near Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre, Forest Corner, Edwinstowe, NG21 9RN, 11.00am to 4pm each day. Car park ing is charged at £5 per vehicle (RSPB members park free, so why not join?)

The outdoor festival celebrates woodlands and traditional woodland crafts. Visitors will be able to see green woodworkers, a coracle maker, have a go at kids' eco art, listen to tree stories and even meet the Wild Man of The Woods. www.sherwoodforest.org.uk

Cockpit-Fest 22

Newark Air Museum, Newark 25/26 Jun

This will be the twenty first (22nd) time that like-minded enthusiasts have displayed their aircraft cockpit sections at the mu seum. Cockpit-Fest has become a fixture on the aviation calendar and each year attracts many visiting cockpits and asso ciated displays. Cockpit-Fest allows the owners the chance to display their prized exhibits to their fellow enthusiasts and the general public.

At this year’s event a diverse range of avia tion will be represented; this includes a range of military jet cockpits and civilian types; plus, several of the on-loan cock pits that resident at the museum. In ad dition, a diverse range of visiting cockpit related exhibits are also expected to be displayed around the 16-acre site; along side an Aeroboot/Aerojumble aviation and avionics sale. Here enthusiasts and the public can search out those aviation arte facts, books and models.

The event is supported by a range of or ganisations and individuals; with the visi tors being encouraged to have a say in de ciding, which is the best cockpit by voting on their favourite display and from these results, prizes are awarded.

Cockpit-Fest also attracts other visiting displays like local history/military vehicle groups; re-enactors; and even more avia tion related displays such as clothing and historical artefacts.

Full details about the events and a full list of visiting cockpits and displays can be found on the Museum Events page of the museum website.

www.newarkairmuseum.org

This image: Courtesy of Newark Air Museum. Top right 2 images: Courtesy of Retro Festival. Bottom right 2 images: courtesy of Major Oak Woodland Festival.

North Notts Food Fest

Worksop, Old Market Place

2 Jul, 9am-5pm

Super family day ourt with free live dem onstrations from 11.15 with celebrity chefs Rosemary Shrager, Great British Menu Chef, Harvey Perttola and cookery queen Teresa Bovey.

Butchery demonstrations by Johnny Pusztai. Artisan food & drink as well as street food market and an poutside bar!

Free childrens 'grow your own'worrkshop. Pedal your own smoothie and lots of street entertainment too as well as competitions!

For tickets, more about the festival visit: www.northnottsbid.co.uk

RetroFest

Newstead Abbey 2-3 Jul.

Newstead Abbey RetroFest is a friendly two-day event that is retro inspired, and has live music, chainsaw carving – ‘Speed Carving Competition’, live entertainment, vintage funfair, classic vehicles and vin tage transport, retro, vintage and upcy cled shopping, food market, vintage Tea Room, traditional Food and bars. Entrance fee is only £10 a day when booked online and £12 a day on the gate. The ticket price includes the RetroFest event and entrance to Newstead Abbey House and Gardens. Free parking, chil dren under 15 free and dogs free. www.retro-fest.co.uk

Gainsborough Food Festival

Market Place, Market Street, Gainsborough 9-10 Jul.

The popular Gainsborough Food and Drink Festival is set to return showcasing the regions very best international traders alongside a packed line up of entertain ment.

Over the weekend more than 30 food and drink stalls will be serving a range of cuisines and beverages from around the world plus sweet treats, bespoke crafts and a licensed bar. rrevents.co.uk/events/gainsboroughfood-festival/

Splendour Festival

Wollaton Park, Nottingham 23-24 Jul.

Set in the beautiful surroundings of Wolla ton Hall & Deer Park, attendees can enjoy five stages of music that spans all genres; from fast-rising stars to world-class per formers, and musical icons, Splendour line-ups are always a wonderful mix of acts that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Headliners including Richard Ashcroft, Anne-Marie, Supergrass, Craig David presents TS5, The Human League, Razor light, The Vamps, Ocean Colour Scene, Happy Mondays, Belinda Carlisle, and many more.

Alongside the music, you can expect com edy, a funfair, a silent disco, independent market stalls, an array of gourmet food and drink, a dedicated kids’ area, and fringe activities. Mark it in your diaries, Splendour will be your favourite day of the summer.

www.splendourfestival.com

Supergrass. Image courtesy of Splendour Festival.

Gloworm Festival 2022

Thoresby Park

12-14 Aug.

The Gloworm Festival is a brilliant two day Festival that has been especially cre ated for grown ups and their little people. We invite our festival goers to come and play in a warm, welcoming and creative environment, loose their inhibitions, let their hair down and have some fun. Here at the Gloworm Festival, we believe that Children are the most important people in the world, which is why this event is aimed at families with Children aged 0-13, with plenty for teenagers and grown ups to en joy too.

2020 will see the festival return for it’s 5th year, with a lineup that will delight both little and big kids alike! Come along and enjoy your favourite TV Stars, boogie on down to some brilliant bands, and join in some of the many workshops and activi ties the festival has to offer.

www.glowormfestival.co.uk

Southwell Music Festival

Southwell, Southwell Minster and Various locations

24–29 Aug.

Southwell Music Festival is an annual, classical music festival which takes place each August Bank Holiday to celebrate classical music, to raise the profile of the town and its magnificent medieval Minster, and to inspire local musicians – especially young people.

www.southwellmusicfestival.com

Sundown Adventureland

Don't miss out on the fun this summer at Sundown Adventureland, the theme park tailor made for under 10's.

Bet you’ve never heard a goat yodel or a potato talk, but you will at Sundown Market. And with your help, all the animals in the Musical Pet Shop will join in the chorus of their very own song.

Explore Fort Apache and the Rodeo Corral Indoor Play Area. Then it’s all aboard the Rocky Mountain Railroad.

Be careful not to wake the dragon as you enter the Lollipoppet Castle with all its smells of candy. Then it’s on to the Tractor Ride for a trip around the English countryside before talking to the animals on the Animated Farm.

Ahoy there! Time to take the Jolly Pirate Ride – but you better watch out, for who knows where those wicked pirates are lying in wait with a surprise or two! Don’t forget your buckets and spades – you’ll need them in Captain Sandy’s Play Cove.

Toddlers won’t want to leave the Storybook Village. Besides listening to their favourite stories, they will be able to join in as they try the chairs in the Seven Dwarf’s House and play the piano in the Three Little Pig’s House. Grandma may not be afraid of the Big Bad Wolf, but she may be afraid of The Mouse’s Tale.

But no one can be scared of the delightful little friends whose lovely scenes lead us through the seasons to the magical Sleigh

Ride through Santa’s traditional winter wonderland.

Climb aboard the Robin Hood Ride to join Robin and his Merry Men as they travel through Sherwood Forest.

Then it’s on to Crash Landings – the fantastic four-story indoor play area and cafeteria. Slide down the tallest slide, then climb and explore through the jungle where you may get a surprise from a Cheeky Monkey or a Slippery Snake.

Run, swing and play in the bright and colourful Angry Birds Activity Park. Take a spin on the Okie Yolkie, and bounce along on the Giddy Piggies. Don’t forget to sing and dance along with the monkeys at Monkey Mischief.

When you’re ready for a break, take the kids for a snack or a treat in one of the Cafes or Shops where there are lots of goodies available.

Made have teamed up with Sundown to make the most of this fantastic fun for all the family with a super competition to win a family of four fun passes. With these super passes you can visit the park as many times as desired in 12 months, including unlimited access to the Easter and Halloween events too.

www.sundownadventureland.co.uk

Competition!

A FAMILY SUNDOWN FUN PASS

This prize is for a family of 4 Sundown Fun Passes for 12 months.

To win this amazing prize simply email: competitions@madeinn.co.uk with the subject: Made For Sundown State your name, address, email, and a contact number.

full details of the passes and full terms and conditions visit: sundownadventureland.co.uk/funpasses/

your chances by looking out for our post on social media too!

Luck!

closes 27 MAY 22

T&Cs

Turning Over A New Leaf

The Leaves of Southwell brings new life to Southwell Minster

Southwell Minster’s historic Chapter House reopened towards the end of 2021 following a crucial conservation and repair project. This latest phase in the building’s care has not only brought new life to the 13th century wonder but showcases its internationally renowned stone carvings through a fascinating reinterpretation of the space.

The Leaves of Southwell project’s aims were to carry out essential works to the high quire roof, which was in a poor state of repair as well as conserve and retell the story of Southwell Minster’s unique stone carvings of leaves, faces and mythical creatures. Designed to appeal to the general public, the project spotlights the sheer delights and craftmanship of the carvings and highlights their importance.

It has been without a doubt an ambitious project, the overall cost of which was £3.1million funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Friends of Southwell Cathedral, and other generous donors.

While the fabric of the Chapter House has undergone ‘light touch’ conservation work, the addition of 21st century features make the visitor more able to appreciate its beauty and ensure its future protection. For the first time in its 700-year history the Chapter House is illuminated properly with hi-tech lighting that not only allows visitors to see the beautiful carvings by both day and night, but has also opened up opportunities for the space to host evening events and activities.

Other key advances have included the installation of underfloor heating to keep the environment constant which helps to preserve the ancient stonework and has made

the Chapter House the warmest part of the building. Also, accessibility has improved significantly with the installation of a new handrail and cantilever lift, tactile carvings and interpretation materials, in addition to a new children’s trail. This has proven particularly significant as the Minster welcomes so many diverse audiences and has enhanced the experience for everyone.

Another key part of the project has involved the repair and renewal of the Minster’s high roof at the east end, which had been leaking for some time. The whole roof has been recovered to make it watertight and keep the building safe.

The Minster grounds and Palace Gardens have also seen developments and external LED flood lighting has been installed so that the Minster can be lit up at night, along with new external path lighting. The Leaves of Southwell brought together a team of professionals who worked alongside the Minster staff. The team included specialist builders and conservation experts, architects and archaeologists, quantity surveyors, designers, accessibility and evaluation consultants as well as an outreach team whose role it was / is to excite and engage the local and wider community. Thanks to the funders, sheer determination and the combined human effort and expertise, the project has been delivered in a way that will protect, interpret and better present the beautiful and historic medieval carvings for future generations.

The project was several years in the planning, as the team shaped the capital works and community events to best serve the Minster. The conservation needs of the building were a driving force, but the leaves, in addition to their historical

“Regarded as the best example of late 13th century naturalistic carving in the United Kingdom.”

significance and architectural brilliance, presented an opportunity for the team to consider wider issues of the environment and nature as we work towards more sustainable and planet-aware generations though a suite of new guides and activities to support the work.

Diana Ives, Head of Education for Southwell Minster and the Leaves of Southwell Project, said “The process saw us in discussions as early as 2016 and we all felt that the link with nature and conservation was something that could be of great interest to the public. We could see great mileage with engagement through this theme and in celebrating the messages that the medieval stone masons had carved.

“By incorporating themes which would attract community interest we were able to work the renovation required into a comprehensive project that would allow us to achieve our restoration goals, bring in new audiences and celebrate the rich history of the leaves. It was on this basis that we were able to secure funding from the Heritage Fund and the support of the Friends of Southwell Cathedral, without which it would have been impossible.”

The fluid carvings of plants, animals, mythical creatures and green men found within the Chapter House – known collectively as ‘The Leaves of Southwell’ – are of quite exceptional quality. Widely regarded as among the best examples of 13th century naturalistic carving of leaves and plants in the United Kingdom, and indeed Europe, they are of significant global importance. The project has not only highlighted this but is bringing new visitors to the Minster and opening up many learning opportunities with education providers, keen to bring their students to see the leaves and experience the space for themselves.

The interest that has surrounded the project from day one has been encouraging, too. The Minster team has found innovative ways to increase awareness and stimulate curious minds. During the High Quire roof renovation, which commenced in December 2019 and involved replacing decaying timbers and adding new slates, they held roof tours, using the scaffolding, which enabled people for the first time in two centuries to get up close to the gargoyles. The scaffolding itself was almost 8.7 miles long, such was the scale of the work.

During the lockdowns of 2020/21 they also held a number of online talks which saw new fans from far and wide, even as far as Canada! Once the Chapter House opened its doors again, the space has been inundated with visitors and the engagement team are also working on specific collaborations with local schools and vulnerable education providers, with the Minster now also able to help with transport costs for some groups on occasion.

There has also been some great face-to-face engagement with Southwell Reach Learning Disability who have been running art and nature activities inspired by the leaves, and with Reach Flower Pod Newark and Southwell-based artist Sarah Flanagan, to create a piece of art that combined the plants in their garden with those seen at the Chapter House.

Diana added: “It has been a joy to be involved in this project and to be able to share this national treasure with so many visitors. I never get tired of watching children discover the dragons, green men and other real and imagined creatures among the leaves as we tell stories, learn about structures and use the carvings to inspire creativity! We owe a huge debt of gratitude to our volunteer researchers and guides, the academics who have worked alongside the team and to countless others who have given their time to contribute to the success of the project.

During the pandemic, work continued to the Chapter House, almost in secret, when the Cathedral was closed. Now we have reopened fully, it’s incredibly exciting to see visitors, old and young, new and those who already know and love the space, benefiting from the hard work as they discover more about the leaves and the medieval masons who designed and carved them, wondering at the minds who imagined the creatures nestling among the leaves, and the skilled hands who brought them to life. The Palace Gardens provide a calming, beautiful outdoor community space which is a poignant reminder to us of the solace many of us found in nature during the pandemic.”

The Education Team, assisted by a team of wonderful freelancers and volunteers, continue to drive community engagement with talks, nature rambles, ancient tree identification with the Woodland Trust, art workshops with schools and care homes, family trails and activities, and even a lockdown-inspired nature photo competition. The top 12 images from the photo competition were also turned into a beautiful calendar for 2022 which is available to purchase from The Cathedral Shop, in person or online.

The Minster, including the Chapter House and its truly wonderful Leaves of Southwell is open daily from 8.30am until 6.30pm Mon-Sat and 8.00am until 4.30pm on Sunday (always check website for access restrictions or closures) and the new space really brings a touch of magic to the already delightful building, steeped in so much important history. The project will be complete on 31st December 2022, but it leaves a lasting legacy for visitors for generations to come.

To visit the Leaves of Southwell or find out more on what’s happening at Southwell Minister, visit: www.southwellminster.org/the-leaves-of-southwell

See the events section for listings of some of the summer events at Southwell.

From Camera To Kiln

Artist Kit Anderson has uniquely combined her passion for photography with a love of ceramics to create a rather wonderful creative affair. Here she talks to Made about her exquisite contemporary ceramics and her exciting ceramic school…

Kit formed her creative business Foto Ceramica after years of exploring ways to combine her interests and experience in both photography and ceramics and having found a rather unusual niche in her art using her own unique version of the Gum bi-chromate photographic process.

It’s a technique that has allowed her to expose photos directly onto ceramic surfaces with the image fired on permanently. The result is a stunning ceramic piece with, in bespoke cases, a wonderful personal moment or memory on a decorative piece (keepsake).

It’s little wonder that demand is high both from individual buyers and galleries wishing to stock her work, to private and public commissions where she works on specific creative projects.

Kit’s background took shape exhibiting as an Arts Photographer, followed by a MA in Photography from De Montfort University in 2004. This combined with her work as a ceramic teacher and technician cemented an organic interest in developing ways to marry the two.

Kit had also been featured in Paul Scott’s book Ceramics and Print (1994, first edition) for her work with photo emulsion, which opened her thoughts in looking at how to further enhance ceramics with photographic imagery and igniting a need to find a more permanent process.

“I’ve always loved photography”, smiles Kit. “And over the years, my career has taken me into making ceramics, but I always felt that the most rewarding thing I could do would be to somehow find a way to fuse them to create something unusual and hopefully delightful to the beholder.”

Her research into older, less practised photography processes eventually led to her creating her own twist on the Gum Bi-

chromate Process, for use on bisque ceramics. The discovery of which opened up an inspired opportunity to create a signature product, using a process that was originally used only on paper.

This was further cemented in 2007 when Arts Council England awarded a Research and Development grant giving her the natural progression to form Foto Ceramica.

Fast forward a few years and it’s proven a winning formula with Kit now producing a variety of pieces not just for showcasing in exhibitions but collaborating with galleries, councils, healthcare trusts and commercial entities on specific commissions. Her popularity has grown, now with a loyal following of individual fans, many of whom approach her for bespoke pieces.

Each collection and each piece has it’s own narrative with consistency and inconsistency of theme simultaneously creating something really wonderful. In fact, inspiration behind the pieces can take many forms and sometimes Kit will look at an entire theme that she wishes to explore and convey and in other instances she may just capture a moment and use it in production.

The imagery used plays a significant role in the creative process for Kit’s work. The source is mostly her original photography, with a small selection of archival images from local or national collections, dependent on the requirements and style of the project underway.

“I like to keep the imagery fresh and authentic to myself”, Kit explains. “I take inspiration from nature, flora and fauna, from people and places I visit, holidays abroad and across the UK. Each piece tells it’s own story and I like to stand back and study each image and see where it can take me. I also like to look for humour in an abstract way or unusual themes. I’ve recently been photographing toy boats outside of water as something different to the norm.”

Kit employs both hand building and slip-casting as processes to make her work, which she has developed and refined over many years. She also uses bought-in bisque tiles which she uses as a base for her collection of Gum photo squares. So when Kit is in her studio, she spends her time alternating between making and decorating, and usually will make 30/40 ceramic pieces for the kiln firing. The entire process can take up to two weeks for a specific piece, because the work has to be fired at least two times. It’s a creative rhythm that has naturally established itself and one she enjoys.

The Foto Ceramica collection includes medium format monochrome or hand tinted ‘gum photo’ tiles and this compliments the range of hand-built plaques, planters, vases, and even jewellery. Each features either an original or carefully sourced archival image directly exposed onto the ceramic surface, which is then fixed by light and fired on permanently. Surprisingly, this photographic imagery is transformed in the process giving the impression of a fragile, haunting quality.

Kit has exhibited regularly in ceramic shows such as Earth & Fire, Potfest and within design shows such as Lustre and Top-drawer and through a number of galleries across the UK. She has also exhibited in Karlsruhe, Nottingham’s twin city in Germany. In 2012, she featured again in Paul Scott’s Ceramics and Print, (3rd Ed) and also in Jill Enfield’s Alternative Photography Processes, by Focal Press, in addition to media and publication features keen to showcase her process.

On why she enjoys her work so much, something that is clearly evidenced in the love and inspired detailing she assigns to each piece, Kit reflects: “There is most certainly a joy of working with materials that you fall in love with as an artist. My love of photography is constant and there is always the challenge of getting the process to work, which keeps things fresh.

“You never quite know what to expect when a piece comes out of the kiln, specifically because you are working with the serendipitous forces of heat. I have to embrace the unpredictability of the process and you are always expecting the unexpected. Working with ceramics as a material in itself is incredibly rewarding, even therapeutic.”

Realising the therapeutic benefits of ceramic making and the joy the craft can bring, Kit took the decision in October 2020 to establish a teaching studio so she could collaborate with other ceramicists and share her skills with those who want to either pursue a career or are looking to find a new hobby. The Nottingham Ceramic School opened it’s doors on the 12th April 2021, and despite the pauses due to the pandemic and lockdowns, it’s has gone from strength to strength and offers six week courses, studio access and even a holiday ‘Clayschool' for children.

“I am delighted at how well the school has grown, particularly during the challenges we have all faced in the past year or so. I’ve realised, from its popularity, that people really do want a space to come along to where they can explore their creativity, receive encouragement and tuition, learn something new or improve an existing skill.

“Above all, it’s a creative space to meet other people and to make new friendships. It’s a very nurturing, relaxed and friendly place and we are always ready to welcome new students.”

“For myself, I find creative teaching very rewarding and it offers me the perfect balance between working alone in my studio, which is often quiet and reflective, and can at times sometimes be a little lonely, with the busy creative experience of working and communicating with others. It’s a pleasure to

imagery on these pages courtesy of Neil Pledger and Kit Anderson.

pass on my skills and I’ve found exactly the right ‘mix’ to help me grow, and to hopefully inspire and support others.”

Alongside running the school and producing her work for Foto Ceramica, Kit is keen to take a new direction in her work. Having recently been awarded the Develop Your Own Creative Practice Arts funding from Arts Council England she is developing a new way of looking at the process in her work. She explains: “To take a new approach for an artist can be quite hard and challenging but I am keen to look at using a more conceptual methodology, something the funding will allow me to do. Essentially, shifting focus back to the story through photography, and the emotions and narrative it can bring rather than focusing on the decorative element.

“Initially, I’m making a piece relating to my Mother and our experiences of her life with dementia”, but I’m also keen to explore my family’s history of shipbuilding on the Clyde and to tell personal family stories though this new body of work. Here, I’ll be working with bigger sculptural pieces which will present a technical challenge in itself.”

It certainly seems like Kit is all fired up for an exciting new phase in her creative journey, with the new direction shaping up, projects in the pipeline, and discussions ongoing with galleries and exhibition centres. It’s an inspiring time for both Foto Ceramica, and for Nottingham Ceramic School as they continue to grow.

To find out more about the courses and classes at the Nottingham Ceramic School: www.nottinghamceramicschool.co.uk

To view Kit’s latest collections and exhibitions or discuss a bespoke commission, visit: www.fotoceramica.co.uk

Exhibition & Open Studio Dates

Up coming dates for shows and exhibitions:

Ceramics in Charnwood Sunday 8th May 22, 10am-4pm Market Place, Loughborough www.facebook.com/events/market-place-loughboroughle11-3-united-kingdom/ceramics-in-charnwood-2022/ 3042368172750754/

Open Studio Notts: Bringing artists into view Inspire exhibition 23rd April-5th June Arnold, Mansfield & Workshop Libraries www.inspireculture.org.uk www.osnotts.co.uk

Coastline Exhibition 27th May-17th June Baxters Gallery Dartmouth www.baxtersgallery.co.uk

Open Studios Nottingham Foto Ceramica 11th June 2022 10am-5pm ( as part of the Hartley Creative trail) Nottingham Ceramic School Unit 36 D, Hartley Business centre Nottingham www.osnotts.co.uk

Ceramics in Southwell Sunday 28th August 10am -4pm Southwell market place www.ceramicsinsouthwell.org.uk

OpenStudios

Bringing Artists Into View With Inspiring Exhibitions And Open Studios

June

2022 is the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee year and we hope it’s going to be a positive and uplifting one. There is a lot going on nationally and locally to celebrate and Nottinghamshire are making the most of this with a super Open Studios 2022 Festival. As the 10th year anniversary of Open Studios wasn’t celebrated last year due to the pandemic, this year there is going to be an extended festival covering three weekends following the Jubilee weekend.

Several artists from our region are featured in the Inspire ‘Bringing Artists into View’ exhibitions in Mansfield Central, Worksop and Arnold libraries. The exhibitions are on now until June 5. Local artists include: Michelle Reader, Phil Neale and Steve Handley from the Harley Studio Group, Griffin and Sinclair Furniture (Laneham), Penny Nashman (Scrooby), Gavin Darby (Brinsley), Clare Taylor and Martha Henton (Mansfield).

Inspire: Culture, Learning and Libraries supports Open Studios Notts by commissioning and curating exhibitions in the library galleries. The photographs in the exhibitions capture rare and varied behindthe-scenes images of the working worlds of artists and makers. The photographs are taken by local photographer, Neil Pledger.

Open Studios Notts are holding a Festival Fortnight from 11-26 June this year, where artists across the county will welcome visitors into their studios, homes and gardens to share their work and their process. Over 100 artists at around 50 venues will take part in the Festival Fortnight.

For complete details of all the artists taking part visit www.osnotts.co.uk or pick up the OS Notts brochure in your local library.

For the latest news from OS Notts on social media follow @osnotts on Instagram, @ openstudiosnotts on Facebook and @ OSNotts on Twitter.

The Shine Festival of Fine Art and Craft

Thoresby Park

11-26 June (Wednesdays to Sundays)

Part of Open Studios Notts. Five resident makers are joined by an additional eight artists and crafts people to create a festival of ceramics, fine art, jewellery making, land art, photography, printmaking, sculpture, textile crafts and more. There will be talks demonstrations and workshops.

The event at Thoresby is also part of the Newark and Sherwood Artists’ Trail, which encompasses artists opening their studios during the OS Notts Festival Fortnight in Newark, Southwell, Upton, Lowdham, Collingham and North Clifton.

Dovecot Gallery - Open Studios

Poplars farm, Styrrup, DN11 8NB 25-26 June 10am-4pm

Hilary and Mike will be showing work and opening up the studios for your perusal. 'Artempo' art group from Retford will be exhibiting their work. Tea and cake in the garden. www.dovecotgallery.co.uk

The Arts Hub - Open Studios

Retford 25-26 June 10am-4pm Studios include: Annie Turner, Bev Ramsbotham, Tracy Page, Paul Straker, Cath Ray, Andy Hill and Christine Howard. Accompanying exhibition on site too.

(See our box all about the Hub on p.52)

Keep up to date will all of the events and open studios on: www.osnotts.co.uk

Don’t worry if you cannot make it to visit everyone’s studio, there will be virtual Studio/profile pages for each participating artist on the OSNotts website –live from the beginning of May 2022 until April 2023. So there’s plenty of time to peruse the creatives across the region.

There will also be Inspire Libraries Exhibitions in three of the county’s libraries (from 23 April to 5 June) with the opportunity to be a featured artist in these exhibitions.

To see all the artists involved across the region visit: www.osnotts.co.uk

Imagery from top: Gavin Derby, Michelle Reader. Clare Taylor, Steve Handley. All imagery courtesy of Neil Pledger and Open Studios Notts.

Girl About Town

Retford

Our Girl About Town reporter, GemmaLouise King, brings you neighbourhood know-how and a round up of places, people and things to look out for, with of course the 'Made' sparkle.

In this edition it’s Retford's time to shine…

Location Location Retford is located eight miles east of the town of Worksop, 16 miles south-east of Doncaster, 31 miles from Nottingham, 23 miles west of Lincoln and 129 miles north of London. It nestles peacefully in the valley of the River Idle and the heritage-rich Chesterfield Canal passes through it’s centre.

The town lies seven miles west of the Lincolnshire border and falls within the district council of Bassetlaw. It offers an excellent work and residential base due to excellent links with a number of town and cities.

It’s a charming market town that showcases rich heritage in its buildings and a warm and lively market square that remains central to its community with weekly markets still very much a part of its way of life.

Retford is also surrounded by some rather quaint villages, including Babworth, with it’s historical church and Scrooby, both famous for their links to the Mayflower Pilgrims who embarked from here for their journey to America.

Explore

Walking is certainly the best way to enjoy Retford – from a leisurely stroll along The Chesterfield Canal to a wander around Kings Park. Or perhaps a wander through Retford itself looking at the Georgian buildings scattered around the town. You can easily reach the local nature reserves that I have mentioned further down in the Green Spaces part of this feature and there are plenty of opportunities to cycle around safely, perfect for family days out. There is a dedicated heritage trail and clear references to the Pilgrim’s journey at the Pilgrim Museum whilst you can find out more about Retford’s diverse and interesting history in the town centre’s Bassetlaw’s museum.

For the little ones, Sundown Adventure Land, which is not too far from Retford is worth a drive out and great for all the family. Captain Jacks is in Retford itself and is another great way to entertain kids with its popular soft play area. The Enigma escape rooms bring some challenging fun for older kids and parents and offers something different to enjoy.

For creatives, Retford Arts Hub offers activities and fun learning all year round and is a great social way to explore new crafts and meet people. I’ve included their latest events and activities further down in this feature.

If you are walking around the town, keep an eye out for the War Memorial which is looked after by the community and a great place to reflect, and a Crimean War landmark – the Sebastopol Cannon in Cannon Square near St. Swithun’s Church.

A number of car parks (both pay and display and free) are conveniently distributed throughout the town.

Girl About Town

Bag a Property

The average house price for a threebedroom detached with garage has over the past year typically set at around the £230,900 mark, but Retford has a really diverse range of properties available to suit all housing needs, from larger detached properties averaging over £300,000, terraced houses often around the £150,000 mark and flats from just £92,000.

It is particularly popular with long distance commuters who see merit in value for money and enhanced quality of life and with it easily accessible to cities via rail or road.

There are a number of excellent estate and lettings agents who serve the town including William H Brown, Newton Fallowell, Hunters, Alexander Jacob, Five Sta, Brown & Co, amongst others.

Cafe & Cocktails

Retford has some great established and new places to enjoy a varied and fun nightlife scene and has just anything that takes your fancy in the drinks stakes, particularly independent coffee houses and tearooms.

If It’s coffee and/or cakes you are after then head to Molly Rockers (you have to try their Biscoff white hot chocolate and melt in the middle cookie pies!), the Glasshouse for not only the best tasting (and locally sourced) coffee around, but also super friendly staff and a naturally sunny space that you could relax in for hours. Ten Green Bottles, Town Best Café and Harry’s Coffee House are also very popular, and the rather wonderful Imperial Tea Room – there is a reason this place gets so busy! The Drawing Room offers a more sophisticated venue, particularly great for work socialising, and the Bay Tree is another hotspot for locals.

Sunday Roast

I’m struggling here to pick a favourite, but I’d recommend The Duke William for seriously good portions, The Herbalist for beautifully served dishes, The Ship Inn for value for money, and the Sun Inn for the family. The Brew Shed is also popular on Sundays with good reason!

I can also recommend the Gate Inn and the Hop Pole is always a delight both for socialising and for delicious food. Just up the road Ye Olde Bell ticks all the boxes with their great menu and Sunday lunches.

There are some great places for drinks and in particular cocktails, and I go back to Glasshouse here as they really impressed with their colourful drinks menu accompanied by their tasty sharer boards. The Herbalist is another favourite with a great atmosphere and a decent choice of cocktails and alcoholic drinks. I also quite liked the Old Police station for a social meet up and a few drinks as it was very relaxed in there. For some lovely ales and fantastic food visit the Brew Shed. If you want some entertainment with your drinks the Vine Inn also has a Karaoke night.

The Apron just out of town in Gamston is a firm favourite with many too for freshly cooked food and a great cup of coffee. For certain there are too many to choose from and this list is by no means complete – so I’d say go and have a wander yourself and discover your own new favourites.

Retail Therapy

Retford is still very much a market town that has retained the charm of its thriving market on Thursdays and Saturdays, as well as an antique market on Fridays and a Farmers Market once a month in its Market Square. The town is excellently served by a number of well-known stores and boasts an abundance of independent shops that offer diversity and some interesting and unique gifts. I found it to be a really pleasant shopping experience.

Those with a sweet tooth will love the Chocolate Kitchen – it’s a terrific family run chocolate shop and I had to make a hasty retreat to protect the waistline! You can always pick up some lovely cakes and a coffee on Bridgegate from Nicole Olivia Cakes, not to be missed.

Good Health Boutique is a super health shop and a good source for clean living products.

Children will love Wonderland Bookshop – a quirky book shop for kids that has so many lovely books on offer. There are plenty of smaller boutique shops about and also a few for more unusual finds. Mama Guisi’s Italian is also spotted along here, an authentic Italian experience for food and shopping and a real gem.

Longer established businesses include Bacons, a butcher that has become part of the fabric of the town since 1938, and Stanley Hunt Jewellers and Bridgegate Jewellers bringing some sparkle.

In the Market Square there’s Limited 2 Art, a lovely art gallery I recommend and also the Pottery On The Square if you’re looking to explore your creativity.

For clothes, I would say head to Fifth Avenue, Platinum and Escape the Ordinary but there are quite a few other lovely stores in and around the town. And if it’s some pampering you are after then the rather lovely Butterflies Beauty Retreat is great for relaxation and feeling special. You can travel a little out of town to Ye Olde Bell Spa, for a luxurious day or stay too. Great hairdressers include Boons and Bohème, but there are quite a few others to choose from in Retford.

Girl About Town

Green Spaces

There’s certainly no shortage of green areas and wonderful walking routes in and around the town.

I’ve mentioned the Chesterfield Canal, which forms the backdrop for some lovely walking routes and I quite enjoyed a stroll along there. Boat trips occasionally take place too during warmer weather so worth keeping an eye out for these for a lovely day out.

The renowned Kings Park is the place for leisurely family time, a great location for picnics and just a wonderful outdoor space. Little surprise that it is a Green Flag award-winning park where the River Idle meanders through with rose gardens, community garden area, a large splash park and performance area for concerts and festivals in the summer. Pack your hampers!

Retford is also home to Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust’s Idle Valley Nature Reserve - a beautiful 375-hectare network of lakes, wetland, grassland and scrub. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the newly introduced beavers and is recognised as one of the richest birding sites in the region. Its visitor centre is a great place to socialise and learn more about the local habitat, often hosting events and workshops.

Also, worth a visit is Danehill Lakes with its range of habitats, including open water, damp willow woodland, drier woodland and grassland. Like Idle Valley it is managed by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust.

There are lots of places to wander around in the town and plenty for all the family to enjoy as recreation.

Girl

Past in the Present

Retford is one of the oldest boroughs in England, the first documentary evidence of Retford was found in the Domesday Survey of 1086. King Henry I established the borough of East Retford in 1105 and it was granted a Royal Charter by Henry III in 1246 allowing a market to be held each Thursday. This was extended by Edward I in 1275 to hold a Saturday market, and both traditions continue today.

The origins of the town's name are unknown and have been subject to much debate, but consensus seems to conclude that it gets its name from an ancient ford crossing the River Idle. There is considerable variation in how its name has been spelt historically, although in early usage it is usually styled as Redeforde or Redforde. There is evidence of human activity in the area stretching back to the Mesolithic period, with evidence of a Mesolithic flint tool found by archaeologists.

Placename evidence in Retford does suggest Viking settlement. Many of the streets in the centre of town are -gates, deriving from the Old Norse gata, which means street. For example, there are streets named Moorgate, Bridgegate, Chapelgate, Churchgate and Carolgate. Findings also point to activity during the Bronze Age after a spearhead was found. Roman-era artefacts are rare in the town but the remains of a group of properties were found in the 20s in

Babworth in the 80s and some Roman artefacts and pottery fragments have been found in Tiln so researchers are inclined to say that the area may have been populated by sub-RomanoBritish culture.

Fast forward to the 1500s and a major fire in 1528 destroyed over three quarters of the area and rebuilding only got underway in 1540. Another fire struck in 1585 and again in 1631. The conflagrations must have had a profound effect on both the economic development of the town and also the religious faith of its inhabitants. The same period saw several outbreaks of plague: an outbreak in 1558 was particularly severe with around 300 deaths in East Retford and West Retford suffered the loss of over half its population.

We then move to 1620 for other notable points in its history we discover that it played a remarkable part in the story of the Mayflower Pilgrims, who fled to America in 1620 after being persecuted for their religious beliefs. It is regarded as the centre of Nonconformism due to the origins with Pilgrims, Baptists and Wesleys.

Today, this rich heritage is still very much accessible through the Mayflower Trail, a circular walking route starting at Babworth and in the excellent information available in the Mayflower Pilgrims Visitor Centre in the

heart of Retford.

As we move closer to the present, we see that The Chesterfield Canal, which was opened in 1777 has also played an important role in the town’s history. It is one of the last of the canals to be designed by James Brindley, is 46 miles long and runs from the River Trent at West Stockwith in Nottinghamshire, passing through South Yorkshire and on to the centre of Chesterfield in Derbyshire. It is in fact one of the earliest to be built during the 18th century canal age and was used to export coal, limestone, and lead from Derbyshire and iron from Chesterfield along with numerous supplies of corn, timber and general groceries. Today it remains an important part of the canal network and a beautiful place to walk alongside.

The coming of the railways was another significant period in Retford’s history.

They transformed the town from a small rural community into a thriving partly industrialised small town with an important railway junction. The Manchester, Sheffield and Lincolnshire railway arrived in 1849 and established a station in Thrumpton.

Unlike Newark and Southwell no castle or major church is associated with Retford, but it has been argued that its very ordinariness makes it ‘stand as a template for English small-town life’.

However, notable religious buildings in the town include St Swithun’s, a Grade

Girl

TownLife

II* listed church in that is dedicated to St Swithun and which was founded in 1258. The church is located in the centre of town between Churchgate and Chapelgate - it is well worth a visit to admire its architecture and design. Retford also features today some fine Georgian buildings, which draw attention to its prominence during this time in market trading and commerce and as a communications hub. It also features two theatres – the Little Theatre on Wharf Road and the Majestic on Coronation Street. The Bassetlaw Museum, which today presents a wealth a local exhibit, is a fine example of Georgian architecture.

Another notable sight, the present Town Hall on the south of the Square was started in June 1866 and opened in January 1868, built on the site of an 18th century townhouse. This was one of a group of new civic buildings. It is a Grade II listed building. Substantial alterations took place in 1978 when the bar and cloakroom areas were created from part of the Old Bank building next door, purchased in 1926 for council use. Maintenance and restoration to the front stonework and other areas are periodic necessities; the latest works were in 2012.

Art deco fans will admire the great Masonic Hall in the town, once a cinema it now houses the local Mason group and is a true wonder to behold.

Rebecca Cross Is the co-owner of the Glasshouse Retford, a lively social and foodie hub. Together, with Jayne and Olivia Ralton, Rebecca works closely with the local business community to enhance the town...

Best thing about living and working in Retford?

There’s a great sense of community amongst business owners and traders, and it’s a very friendly place where people help one another.

As we all recover from the lock downs and look to the future, we have seen a renewed sense of togetherness from everyone and this is encouraging not only existing businesses to expand and try new things but also, we seeing new businesses emerging.

We have a great independent store atmosphere that should be celebrated

and as a fairly new business owner (I’ve had the Glasshouse for three years now) I have along with my co-owners really benefitted from and embraced the business community.

Social Scene?

Retford is blessed with eateries and pubs and bars so we do have a thriving nightlife that perhaps if you are not from Retford you may not know. In fact, there are so many new places emerging scattered all. Around the town that we have started to see how you could walk a loop around the Retford to enjoy them all – our own take on a pub crawl!

Describe Retford's USP

I can. Whole-heartedly say that few places equal the friendliness of the people here. It’s warm, welcoming and people help one another so there’s a great sense of community. Also, it is surrounded by amazing countryside yet is incredibly accessible, so it really is a great place to live and/or work.

Jayne, Olivia and Rebecca at The Glasshouse.

Retford Arts Hub

flowers OccasionsFor All

www.

for most occasions, specialising in floral tribute designs

Visit the Open Studios between 11 Jun-24 Jun.

The Open Studios Notts 2022 event at Retford Arts Hub will see a host of local artists with open doors for an insight into their working practice. The studios are on the top floor of this beautiful Georgian building nestled in Cannon Square in Retford and there's a small café on the ground floor alongside the wonderfully diverse shop.

The artists featured include: Annie Turner, Bev Ramsbotham, Tracy Page, Paul Straker, Cath Ray, Andy Hill and Christine Howard.

The artworks cover a diverse range of media including original paintings, sewing, book binding, drawing and more.

There will also be an accompanying exhibition within the Hub that will feature the artsits' work. Visitors will have the opportunity to shop for artworks, gifts and other locally created and sourced items for sale too.

Art Classes & Workshops

If you'd like to join in and get those artists' juices flowing, throughout the year there are regular and extremely popular creative workshops run by the artists as well as arts and craft classes to take part in at the Hub, booking is necessary.

These are run by different local artists and cover watercolour lessons, knit stitch & natter, slow stitching for the soul, learn to crochet, mixed art media, learn to draw course and various timed art classes and clubs. Please visit the facebook page or call/email on the details below for details and booking.

For further details you can find us on Facebook @retfordartshub Or call: 01777 860414 or email: info@retfordartshub.com Or simply pop in and see our current exhibition and local giftware and produce. Open 10am-4pm Mon-Sat.

11 Church Gate, Retford. DN22 6PA

01777 818 284 07969 746 961 info@flowersbykay.co.uk

The Retford Trail

The small market town of East Retford in North Nottinghamshire is one of the oldest boroughs in England and is steeped in history and local folklore, from the notorious Highwayman, Dick Turpin to the colonists who settled in America.

Retford flourished when the Great North Road was rerouted through the town in 1766, the market square became a hive of activity, with its scores of public houses and inns, attracting a bustling passing trade. The arrival of the railway and the Chesterfield canal saw many changes, and by the 20th century, the population had significantly increased. The town continues to grow and flourish and has an eclectic choice of bars, coffee shops, restaurants, galleries, theatres, and a super museum.

This delightful and interesting trail around the town begins at the Town Hall in the elegant Georgian Market Square.

This magnificent building began construction in 1866 and is a fine example of French Romanesque Style architecture. It is said,

that hidden beneath the foundations is a time capsule containing the Times newspaper and a collection of coins from the era. Situated close to the Town Hall is the Broad Stone, which is likely to be the upturned base of an old market cross, used as a vessel for disinfecting coins in vinegar during the plague, to prevent the spread of disease and infection. In the centre of the Market Square stands the War Memorial which remembers those who lost their lives during the First and Second world wars. The lantern on the top connotes a medieval custom of maintaining a ‘Lantern of the Dead’ to be lit every dusk until sunrise, as a tribute and memory to those departed.

Grove Street is one of the main routes through the town and is where you will find the Bassetlaw Museum and the Methodist Church. The museum, Amcott House, is most certainly worth a visit and has to be one of the region’s finest. It is an absolute gem, which is on the site of a 17th-century country house. You will find superb displays, a beautiful garden, and a glimpse into local life gone by. Across the road from the museum is the Methodist Church. This impressive building was built in 1880

In this issue we explore the Retford trail by travel writer and photojournalist Sally Outram.

St. Swithun's Church, Photo: Sally Outram.

for the Wesleyan congregations. It is worth a look inside as the layout is quite unusual, with circular pews leading down to the pulpit and an impressive balcony above.

Back along Grove Street is the entrance to Dyers Court and the Clark’s of Retford Mural, a Retford Heritage mural painted by local artists. You will also see the Little Theatre mural and a painted sweetshop window; it is certainly the artistic corner of town!

Beyond Dyers Court is Chapelgate, which leads onto Cannon Square and Churchgate. Here you will notice St. Swithun’s Church, which was founded in 1258, however in 1528 there was a great fire in Retford, causing massive loss and destruction, much of the original church was destroyed, so has undergone many alterations and restorations over the centuries.

Standing proudly by the church is one of Retford’s most famous landmarks, the Sebastopol Cannon. The cannon dates from 1832 and was seized from Sebastopol in 1855 and was brought to the town to commemorate the winning of the Crimean War. In Cannon Square, you will also find the Denman Library and the town Hub, if you have the time, both are worth a visit. The square was also the site of the old medieval market and most likely the site of the original Moot Hall or Town Hall.

Moving on through the town and heading towards Bridgegate you will see the White Hart, with its stunning cobbled courtyard. It held its first licence in 1730 and was a former coaching inn. There is a beautifully restored London to York road sign up on the corner of the pub wall, and you can almost feel the history as you walk by.

On to Rectory Road passing the Church, our route takes us to Hospital Road, which is one of the major roads in and out of the town. From here you will see Trinity Hospital and Kings Park. Trinity Hospital has been established for over 350 years and was formerly on the site of the West Retford Hall, bequeathed by Dr John Darrel in 1671, for Christian widowers, poor men, and bachelors of good repute. This present building was designed

by Edward Blore, the architect and designer of Lambeth Palace, home of the Archbishop of Canterbury.

The Jewel in Retford’s crown’ has to be Kings Park. It was opened in 1930 to commemorate the reign of George V and the coronation of George VI. Once voted 5th, in Britain’s favourite parks it offers something for everyone, with flower beds and displays, which are beautiful all year, and the River Idle which meanders gently through, attracting an abundance of wildlife, flora, and fauna.

The Chesterfield Canal is a delight, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as Redwing, Swans, and the occasional Heron. The vegetation is rich and ever-changing. Enjoy the peaceful beauty of the Canal as it winds through the town, passing the locks and the waterfront houses.

From the canal, the route heads back into the town centre and along Carolgate, which was once part of the Old Great North Road, from Edinburgh to London. As you walk through the pedestrianised area, look out for the Cattle Market Mural on Spa Lane, further along the lane is the original site of the old livestock and farmer’s market.

Returning to the Market Square via Coronation Street, you will see the Majestic Theatre, a beautiful theatre that was built in 1925 and opened in October 1927, with its first stage production of the musical ‘No, No Nanette. It was also used as a cinema, providing popular weekly entertainment for many years, with cinema goers queuing up from Exchange Street to get the best seats in the house.

Finally passing the Old Police Station, which is now a hotel and bar, you will see the main gates of Kings Park, another great opportunity to explore this wonderful green space, before heading back to the start of the route, where you can explore and enjoy the rest of the town at your leisure, as this trail only just touches the surface of what the historical market town of East Retford has to offer.

All imagery - Sally Outram. From left: Signage in the Market Square. Bassetlaw Museum (Amcott House) on Grove Street. Clarks Of Retford Mural in Dyers Court.

The basics

Distance: 2.5 miles (4.02 km)

Severity: Easy

Gradient: Mostly flat but there are some steps.

Approx time: Allow half a day so you have plenty of time to explore.

Stiles: None.

Maps: OS Explorer 271 or Landranger 120

Path info: Town footpaths, pedestrianised areas, canal towpath.

Start point: Town Hall, Market Square

Refreshments: There are plenty of fabulous places to choose from in Retford.

Directions

1. Start at the Town Hall in the Market Square. With your back to the Town Hall, head to the right crossing the market square towards Grove Street. Notice the War Memorial in the centre of the square, and the Broadstone by the Town Hall.

2. Walk over to Grove Street following the pavement on the right, proceed along until you reach Bassetlaw Museum. Take this opportunity to have a look around this wonderful gem, it’s free to enter.

3. After exploring the museum, cross over the road, you will see the Methodist Church. Return back along Grove Street until you reach Dyers Court on the right, an alleyway which leads through to a public carpark.

4. Proceed through the archway, you will see wall art and the Clarkes of Retford mural as you enter the car park.

5. Continue through the carpark heading towards Chapelgate and St. Swithun’s Church ahead. Cross

over the road and walk towards the Sebastopol Cannon in Cannon Square. From the square you can visit the library and the town hub.

6. Leaving Cannon Square, head towards the market place, you will see the White Hart pub ahead of you. Notice the old signage on the corner of the building, this is a great spot for a pit-stop, the cobbled courtyard is lovely!

7. Continue along Bridgegate, crossing the bridge over the River Idle and heading on towards the West Retford church on your left. Here turn left onto Rectory Road and follow it around until you reach the main road.

8. Turn left onto Hospital Road and continue along the footpath, look out for Trinity Hospital on the opposite side of the road. Proceed along passing Kings Park on your left and follow the path until you reach the bridge at the Chesterfield Canal.

9. From here take the towpath by the canal and continue along,

passing the locks (if you are lucky, you might just see a boat or two passing through). Proceed along until you reach the next set of locks in the town at Retford Marina.

10. To the left you will see the Bay Tree Café, a super little spot for some alfresco dining. Here, cut through the car park and cross over onto Carolgate, which becomes pedestrianised. Walk up towards the town centre and then turn left onto Coronation Street.

11. Proceed along following the road round, you will see the Majestic Theatre on your right. After the theatre turn left onto Exchange Street, the Old Police Station is on your left and Kings Park is opposite. (This is a good opportunity to explore the beautiful park).

12. Turn right and head towards the carpark, you will see the rear of the Town Hall ahead. Continue towards it and back to the Market Square to explore the rest of the town at your leisure.

All imagery - Sally Outram. The Market Place and Town Hall, the War Memorial to the left of the image.

Perfect Period Property M

ore than just a stunning period property in a thriving and well-regarded village, Rolleston Manor is a home which will perhaps be sold only once in a generation. Moreover, it is rarely that a property accurately reflects the superlatives often given to it by those who pen editorial features such as these. Rolleston Manor is a property which ticks all the boxes, passionately restored, and maintained by the present owners over many years, it is hard to imagine that a determined and serious country property purchaser will not be attracted to the many attributes of this wonderful Grade II Listed period home. The house also enjoys a strategically convenient location, enviably situated in the heart of Rolleston village in the Trent Valley countryside, close to market town amenities in the historic Minster town of Southwell, with direct access to regional population centres.

Set in 7.32 Acres / 2.96 Hectares or thereabouts, comprising immaculate formal gardens, productive orchards and level paddocks, The Manor offers privacy without being remote or secluded. An imposing gated entrance opens onto a beautiful stone set courtyard, ensuring a wonderful first impression, and the scale and extent of the main accommodation alongside the superb period outbuildings offers appreciable flexibility, without being unmanageable. There is ample scope to enable a blended family lifestyle arrangement alongside home office working utilising a charming, detached cottage and a separate former brewhouse within the grounds, which in turn are complimented by a superb stable block and garage complex.

The main house offers a tastefully presented interior of appreciable period character, comprising four main reception rooms and a study, with five bedrooms and three bathrooms

An Exquisite Village Manor House Near Southwell. Introducing Rolleston Manor From Smith & Partners, Land & Estate Agents, Southwell.

on the upper floors. Arguably the signature feature of Rolleston Manor is a stunning 21st century extension project which created a remarkable day room, overlooking a sheltered courtyard and Italianate water feature, and connecting in open plan to the bespoke Dale Penney hand-crafted country kitchen.

Perhaps the last words should be left to the genuine and reluctant sellers of Rolleston Manor, ‘’To be honest we don’t really want to leave, but the family has flown the nest and now it’s just too big for us. Rolleston Manor is a great family home in a friendly village!’’

The sale of Rolleston Manor is being handled by Ian Terry, Residential Partner at Smith and Partners, Land and Estate Agents, 16 Market Place, Southwell, NG25 0HE, and for further detailed information, please telephone 01636 815544 or email sales@smithandpartners.co.uk

Interior Design... It's Child's Play.

Tips on creating the perfect childrens room.

By Kelly Roden, owner of Meliora Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms in Bawtry.

Designing most rooms in the house can feel like a daunting task but none more so than a children’s room. Though it is a room to really allow you to let your creativity flow, I thought I would share some little hints and tips on how to make them the most fun room in the home.

1. Keep it simple – keep the décor simple and the furnishings minimal to allow space for play and provide a neutral canvas that can be easily updated as the child grows.

2. Focus on play – to create a space your child will want to spend time in, focus on the thing they love the most: play! Indoor swings, ball pools, a house shaped bed frame, bunk/cabin bed slides, rock climbing walls, indoor cargo nets are all details that can make the space appealing and fun. Simple details like a art gallery wall with magnetic frames to allow frequent changes or a blackboard chalk wall can add similar fun elements without much effort.

3. Make the most of the space – most childrens rooms are the smaller ones in the house which means being creative with furniture to make the most of the space, loft and cabin beds are a simple and easy way to achieve this. Utilising floor space for an additional play zone or storage space.

4. Colour - Kids love colour but choosing the right one can be tricky. Sure, your little one may adore all things hot pink now, but that doesn’t mean they will later, and the thought of repainting the entire room in just a few short years is enough to give anyone colour commitment issues. Painting shelves, hanging prints, using rugs, curtains and soft furnishing mean when they grow out of their Minecraft obsession the bright green is easy to get rid of.

5. A place to escape – Lastly give them a place to get away from it all, a place for a little down time. A reading nook for example is an excellent place for some quality alone time and has the added benefit of encouraging your little one to curl up with a good book!

Kelly Roden

Meliora Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms

Tel: 01302 711007. Email: info@meliora.uk www.meliora.uk

DécorClever Call Of The Wild...

Geneva Outdoor Chair Washed Grey (2pk). £599.

Parrots of Brasil Cushion by Mind The Gap. £129.

Bambi Doe Chest of Drawers by ibride. £1,099.

Anisoptera Botanicus In Cranberry by Carmine Lake. £425. Limited run of 100 only.

Bombus Bubblegum Round Tray by Carmine Lake. £99. These beautifully hand crafted trays feature designs by the multi-award-winning artistic duo Simon Critchley and Rachael Doble.

Anisoptera Botanicus Bubblegum Fringed Cushion by Carmine Lake. £250.

Creating Perfect Spaces

Thoughts On Spatiality

Julie Richards Architecture & Design Ltd - Specialising in Architecture, Urban Planning, Space Planning and Interior Design.

Following the deep dive into our architectural manifesto in the last issue, I’d like to now explore how our manifesto relates specifically to thoughts on spatiality. This is the first layer of the architectural concept upon which considerations of materiality, lighting and bespoke focal points are overlaid and integrated into the architectural palimpsest.

We perceive interior space being experienced as a narrative, as a passing of time; the architectural scheme unfolding as a sequence of events or experiences. As we progress along the axis of movement, our experience is structured as a set of juxtaposed spatial fragments whose propositions and relations develop once seen as a whole. Our proposition is to define clear passages of flow punctuated by spatial pauses.

We create an armature of spaces which respond to the brief and furthermore enrich it, by suggesting and creating connections not initially conceived by the client. These connections may be visual, physical or programmatic.

Visual connections provide a clear vista into another space but without direct physical access between them. This may be open so that sound may also travel, or it may be glazed so that only vision permeates the boundary. Visual

connections also allow light to travel from space to space.

Physical connections enlarge on the purely visual frames to allow actual movement between spaces as well as sound and light. These may be reconfigured and so provide an element of variation to the overall armature of spaces, the architectural scheme. Therefore, a minimum of vertical partitions, both static and mobile, are incorporated into the schemes; any that do remain perform multiple tasks, doors are recessed into walls and may occupy various positions recreating the spatial layout accordingly.

Programmatic connections relate to the use of a space. Different spaces within a scheme are linked by how they are used; certain activities require a proximity to each other, or the same activity is repeated throughout the scheme in isolation. The programmatic element may be used to obscure physical and visual boundaries, such as the threshold between interior and exterior.

In the next issue I will reveal how our manifesto relates specifically to thoughts on materiality.

From interior design to architecture, if you have any queries or a project to which you would like Julie to apply her structured, creative thinking, please don't hesitate to contact her on the details opposite.

Tel: 01636 814624, Email: enquiry@julierichardsdesign.co.uk www.julierichardsdesign.co.uk

“...our experience is structured as a set of juxtaposed spatial fragments...”

Julie Richards Architecture & Design Ltd

New Habits For Health

It doesn’t have to be January to start a new routine. The time has got to be right to enable yourself to embrace it. Over the next few issues we have a series of features from some of the Members of The Wellness Network as to how to approach making those changes and some key tips to focus on. In this issue we're looking at taking a fresh approach to your perfume and how a little change can mean a lot.

Unique Scents

Many of you will be familiar with perfume. Maybe you have a favourite scent you’re used to wearing daily, but did you ever consider what goes into it?

Everyday perfumes are full of pollutants, adulterants and often the original scent is no longer pure, creating a toxic overload. No wonder people are getting tired and lethargic.

Have you ever considered creating your very own perfume, as unique as you are, but with pure clean essential oils? Your distinct body chemistry will help create something beautiful and perfect for you.

If you already love scents this is an easy habit to adopt and enjoy.

Try layering. Combine your favourite scents to create a fragrance perfectly customized and harmonised to your chemistry for a beautiful aroma, which defines who you are.

How to layer scents: Every perfume contains a root note, a heart note, and a crown note (also known as base, mid, and top notes) for a complete and harmonious aroma.

Here are a few tips: The foundation is your root note. Strong, long-lasting and earthy these give your aroma depth and a base. Try oils such as Patchouli, Ylang Ylang, Frankincense and Cedarwood.

Your heart note lasts up to an hour and is grounding, gentle and floral. These are the scents at the centre of your perfume and weave the other scents together. Florals make a good choice for your heart note. Try Lavender, Geranium, Neroli, Rose, Peppermint, and Eucalyptus,

Finally, your crown note lasts up to 15 minutes and is bright, distinct, and often citrus. This scent grabs your attention and is the most noticeable and lightest scent in your composition. Crown notes include citrus oils like Lime, Grapefruit, Orange, Bergamot, as well as others such as Spearmint and Lemongrass,

www.thehappyfootclinic.com/essential-oils-free-ebook Melanie Smith-Rawling, The Happy Foot Clinic & DoTerra Consultant

For more inspirational advice and further information speak to Johanna Thompson, The Wellness Network Call: 07771 884 803 Email: info@thewellnessnetwork.co.uk www.thewelnessnetwork.co.uk

How To Get In Great Shape

Pete Edwards, Thrive Health Management Ltd.

Achieving good physical fitness and the physique that goes along with it is on many a wish list. But few people really manage to weave effective fitness practices into their lives. Poor will power, busy lives, and too many commitments (kids, career, etc) are among the common reasons given. Certainly, the advice to maintain good fitness levels for health and longevity, let alone waistline, seems straight forward to understand but hard to implement.

But maybe there is a different way of looking at this. Instead of seeing people as lazy, ill-disciplined, and leading hectic lives, we should instead consider that we are in fact not very good at getting people to change their behaviour. Many a personal trainer can get someone who already exercises regularly to train more effectively. But not many programs successfully take beginners, or sedentary people, and turn them into fitness enthusiasts. Luckily, we are starting to uncover a better way.

If you like the idea of being fit and loving exercise, but know that this is not yet who you are, heed this;

You should be training every single day!

Now, I can hear some protests. “Wait a second. Surely I cannot go from nothing to training every day right away!”. I hear you, stick with me, all will become clear.

There are three overlapping obstacles hindering you from building a strong fitness practice and getting into great shape. Firstly, you don’t like exercise for its own sake. Secondly, and partly because of this, you experience a great inertia against forcing yourself to exercise, even when you know you “should”.

Lastly, each and every time you intend to train you have to exert a huge mental effort and mobilisation of will power to do so. The result is that you seldom exercise, or at least nowhere near as much as your “should”. This is cyclic. Lack of intrinsic motivation due to lack of pleasure from exercise leads to a lack of exercise due to inertia. Which leads to a lack of habit and a bigger effort required to engage in fitness. This isn’t very rewarding and lowers intrinsic motivation to do it again, diminishing the chances of habit formation, and increasing future inertia to engaging again.

Here is the formula for beating this cycle:

Try to find exercise you actually enjoy. Train every day, but just for 20 minutes. As you get fitter, work harder, not longer.

Point by point:

Try to find exercise you like. If you can engage in an activity you actually like for its own sake, your fitness will take care of itself. This isn’t to say that exercise you don’t love is bad. Doing something because you know its good for you is fine. But even if only some of your days are intrinsically enjoyable your success rate will sky rocket.

Engaging in exercise every day massively increases the chances that you will form the habit. Ideally this will be first thing in the morning, when motivation is high and the day hasn’t gotten on top of you yet. Even if you just go for a walk begin with. As the habit forms, the mental effort needed to engage will drop, you may even miss it if you miss it!

20 minutes. Yes it is enough. Improving fitness is far more about how hard you work than how long you work. You may start off by walking briskly for 20 minutes. Then jog - walk. Then jog. In a year you’ll be doing nearly 5k in that time. This small amount of time harbours two key benefits: Firstly, it is far easier to actually do than a whole hour is. It’s much harder to make excuses that you do not have time, it’s much less inertia to overcome, and thus you will actually DO it. Secondly, the act of doing it provides all the benefits of training; better mood, sense of accomplishment and improved fitness.

As you get fitter, work harder not longer. In order for the body to adapt to training, it must be challenged. By increasing resistance or speed but keeping time constant you can continually progress, without increasing your time commitment.

Often, people think this cannot possibly be enough stimulus to get results. But on 140 minutes per week, as long as the intensity is adequate, fitness can improve dramatically.

If you’ve never been able to build a robust fitness practice before, consider this alternate path. Rooted in the science of fitness and behaviour change, rather than fitness culture, it might just be the answer you’ve been missing.

THRIVE Health Management LTD. Gothic House, Barker Gate, Nottingham NG1 1JU Tel: 07500 830 344

John Flynn Opticians

Introduces latest technology imaging for 4D ADVANCED Eye Examination in Beeston

Following completion of higher qualifications in Glaucoma and Medical Retina from the College of Optometrists via Cardiff University Dr. Janjua and his team at John Flynn Opticians in Beeston continue to strive to make a difference in the fight against the 50% of sight loss cases that could be avoided each year. Highlighting the fact that more than 100 people in the UK start to lose their sight each day, they are promoting the importance of the earliest possible diagnosis. With an ADVANCED eye examination being much more than a new pair of spectacles or contact lenses, the practice has invested in the most advanced diagnostic technology so early changes in the eye can be detected, long before there are any obvious symptoms: this allows for early treatment and better results. With the latest SPECTRALIS 4D high definition Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) imaging technology, Dr. Janjua is now able to identify and monitor the smallest change.

The SPECTRALIS 4D HD OCT ADVANCED eye examination is the same instrument that can be found at the QMC eye department and uses a patented eye-tracking system that allows Dr. Janjua to identify those at risk of eye disease more easily. The tracking system allows the 3D scan to be placed in exactly the same place (to one micron which is a 1/100th of a hair) at each visit, giving a true 4D view of change over time. This helps to reveal eye disease which may not yet be noticeable by the patient or detectable with a basic eye exam. Fast, painless and non-contact, the scan does not include any bright flashes of light or puffs of air, and takes place in seconds.

“We are really excited to offer our patients this new 4D HD OCT advanced eye examination,” said Dr. Janjua “Using the SPECTRALIS technology, we can examine tiny details that help us detect eye disease at the earliest stages, reducing the risk of sight loss and improving our patient’s lives.”

Common eye diseases can impair vision and cause permanent vision loss if not caught at an early stage. The best preventative measure to protect good vision is an annual ADVANCED eye examination, and treatment when needed.

John Flynn Opticians are dedicated to providing patients with the highest quality ophthalmic lenses and now the most technologically advanced care.

For more information contact us at 0115 9255051 or 0115 9392421 or visit www.johnflynnopticians.co.uk

• New technology offers early detection of eye disease.

Party Time

It's Platinum Jubilee celebration time! In this issue we have a selection of tasty nibbles and treats perfect for your party. By food demonstrator & home economist, Teresa Bovey.

Cheese Scones

Ingredients

225g self raising flour

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp paprika

Pinch of salt

55g cold butter, diced

1 tsp dried chives

75g grated Mature Cheddar cheese, grated 150mls milk

To serve – butter, tomato slices, rocket leaves and an extra cheese slice if desired.

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 190ºC Fan/Gas 6.

2. Place the flour, baking powder, paprika and salt into a large bowl.

3. Add the diced butter and quickly rub in with your finger tips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.

4. Add the chives and 50g milk and using a round bladed knife, mix to form a soft dough.

5. Pat or roll out the dough to a depth of 2cm / 3/4inch.

6. Stamp out 12 small scones with a 5 cm/ 2 inch cutter and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of each scone.

7. Place the scones onto a baking tray. Allow them to stand for 10 minutes and then bake for them 10-12 minutes.

8. Serve halved with a little butter and garnish as above.

Makes 12 small scones.

Corn Cups

A great way of using tortilla crisps and the bases can be made in advance for a party and topped with ready bought guacamole or tomato salsa for speed.

Ingredients

125g butter

75g soft cream cheese

125g plain flour

75g tortilla crisps, finely ground

2 tbsp chopped chives

Topping

1 carton ready-made guacamole

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 180ºC/Fan 160ºC/ Gas 4.

2. Cream together the butter and cream cheese.

3. Add the remaining ingredients and mix to form a soft dough.

4. Roll the mixture into marble sized balls and place into a mini muffin tin.

5. Press each ball with a teaspoon to form a cavity.

6. Bake for 16-18 minutes until a light golden brown.

7. Once cooled fill the corn cups with the desired filling.

Makes 24 mini cups.

Lower Fat Chocolate Mousse

Ingredients

60g of dark chocolate.

60g of milk chocolate. 10 marshmallows.

200g of thick Greek or low-fat yoghurt.

1 egg white, whisked.

Method

1. Place the chocolate and marshmallows in a bowl over a pan of hot water and leave to melt. Alternatively microwave the chocolate for 1-2 minutes on medium power. Add the marshmallows and microwave for another ½-1 minute. Cool slightly.

Whisk in ¾ of the yogurt and then fold in the whisked egg white.

the mix into shot glasses

small espresso coffee cups.

until set.

Once set, top with the remaining yoghurt and chosen fruit.

Serves 6-12

This recipe will fill 12 expresso cups/egg cups/shot glasses but serves 6 in small wine glasses or ramekins.

dark chocolate in the recipe if you prefer. Try adding 1-2 tablespoons of Baileys to the mix

Upside-down Mini Cheesecakes

Raspberry Possets

Ingredients

220g frozen raspberries

1-2 tbsp Chambord (raspberry liqueur )

Alternatively 3 tbsp proscecco or wine can be added in place of the liqueur 300mls double cream 20g caster sugar

To decorate

6 raspberries and 6 mint leaves

Method

1. Place the double cream and sugar into a small saucepan.

2. Heat gently until sugar dissolves and then turn the heat up and let the mixture boil for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Leave to cool for 15 minutes.

3. Reserve 6 raspberries and place the rest into a microwave and defrost for 5 minutes

4. Place the part defrosted raspberries and liqueur into a mini blender and blitz to form a puree. Push the puree through a sieve into a clean bowl to remove the seeds.

5. Mix together the cooled cream and raspberry puree.

6. Refrigerate until chilled and then top with the reserved raspberry and a small sprig of mint.

Fills 6-7 x 80ml shot glasses.

Street Party Tips

For friends and neighbours this can be done in gardens without informing local councils.

For organising street parties and more formal gatherings if you google ‘street meet’ there is advice and details on whether you need to inform the council as well as helpful tips for the event.

One website we found helpful is: www.streetparty.org.uk/guide/street-meet/

Individual Lemon & Lime Drizzle Cakes

Ingredients

150g caster sugar

150g butter

3 eggs

200g self-raising flour

3 tbsp milk

Zest and juice of 1 lemon and 1 lime 40g granulated sugar

Method

1. Preheat the oven to Fan/170ºC/Gas 4

2. Beat together the caster sugar and butter until pale and fluffy.

3. Beat in the eggs and then fold in the sieved flour, milk and lemon & lime zest.

4. Spoon the mixture into paper muffin cases in a 12 hole deep muffin tin.

5. Bake for 18-20 minutes.

6. Place the lemon and lime juice and the granulated sugar into a small bowl and heat in the microwave for 1–1½ minutes until the sugar has dissolved.

7. When you remove the cakes from the oven immediately prick them all over with a skewer and drizzle over the hot lemon & lime syrup. Cool completely before serving.

Makes 12 muffin sized cakes or 16 fairy sized cakes.

for the

WeRecommend...

Mr & Mrs Fine Wine

It's time to celebrate! This issue Mr & Mrs Fine Wine have selected a few of the finest to fill our glasses ready for the Platinum Jubilee. Also a couple of tasty ideas for Father's Day!

A Royal toast to the Jubilee with an elegant British fizz

What better way to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee than with a glass of British fizz? Our selection includes, among others, the excep tional Gusbourne Estate Brut Reserve, £39.99, from Kent. Bright gold in colour, this blend highlights red fruit aromas of cherry and strawberry, which then de velop into attractive fresh pastry notes with a touch of cinnamon and spice.

For an exceptional wine from a smaller producer, this time in Devon, our Lyme Bay Brut Reserve, £22.49, is fruit driv en with lemony notes and a creamy, mousse finish.

A milestone such as a Platinum Jubilee surely deserves nothing but the best of British after all and at Mr & Mrs Fine Wine we are pleased to be able to support and stock a range of the finest!

British tipples

As we celebrate all things British and why not continue with a cocktail? Our Soho Street Cocktails, £28.99, are even better than that, they’re ready to go and just awaiting ice! For fans of fruity fla vours our Passion Star and Raspberry Daiquiri are sure to be a hit and there’s even a reviving Espresso Martini to take your party from day to night.

With party foods

If you’re anything like us, you will love nothing better than a glass of Cham pagne to mark the start of Spring or even the first meal alfresco - if the weather lives up! One of our favourites to get any party started is Delavenne Dom Basle Bouzy Brut Reserve Grand Cru, £39.99, with aromas of white, exotic and dried fruits and seductive volume and depth on the palate. You could enjoy this Champagne as an aperitif on a special occasion or even alongside a platter of seafood such as scallops, salmon vol au vents or a light creamy or vegetarian dish.

Gifts

Father's Day

Just around the corner is Father’s Day and if your dad’s a tricky one to please with either a red or a white wine, why not go to town and treat him to a Mixed Case? A Mixed Case has a little bit of everything with wine styles from around the world – from the cherry red with dark plum and hints of chocolate – Murphy Vineyards Shiraz to the delicate, extra dry bubbles of the la Delizia Prosecco!

Or, if you’re dad loves his Gin how about a bottle of Tobermory Gin, £30.99? Re flecting the spirit of the Isle of Mull, its has a rich palate of hand-selected botanicals including juniper, tea, heather, elderflower and sweet orange peel. With a deliciously creamy mouthfeel, Tobermory Gin is luxu rious in style so perfect for gifting this Fa ther’s Day! There’s even a free glass availa ble to keep your dad chic, while stocks last!

Mr & Mrs Fine Wine - The Wine Bank, Independent Wine Merchant & Bar IWSC Independent Wine Retailer of the Year 2018 www.mrandmrsfinewine.co.uk

FestivalFun

The Summer is here, let's get outdoors, have some fun in the sun. Grab your wellies and umbrellas, escape the ordinary and get festival ready!

This page: Barbour Girls Guilden Gilet, £64.95, Barbour Dovecoat Wax Hat £24.95. Barbour Simonside Wellingtons £39.95. Barbour Girls Isabelle Dress, £44.95. All available at: Barbour.com

This image: Joe Browns.

Monique Swish Fedora, £21. Glorious Boho Top, £40. www.joebrowns.co.uk

This page: Joe Browns.

Stunning Crochet Cover Up. £45.

Forever Denim Shorts, £35.

Taboo Bamboo Buckle Belt, £25. Heatwave Sandals, £30. www.joebrowns.co.uk

Festival Fun...

it fun, fresh and festival fancy this year with some gorgeous accessories from cute shorts, to funky wellie boots. There's lots to choose from on the highstreet right now, so spoil yourself with a new hat, boho chic top and grab a new lippy and a pot of glitter! You're ready to go!

bit

Layers of colour and

add

pair

This image:

£12.

£70.

£65.

OnYourBike!

With the Tour Of Britain fast approaching, we thought it was time for a little bit of bicycle inspiration from Fat Face, Barbour and more...

This image: FatFace X Raleigh Bike Collage Tee in White, £28. Stone Wash Straight Jeans. £59.

Image opposite: FatFace X Raleigh Chest Stripe Tee in Navy, £28. Breakyard Cargo Shorts. £46.

Fat Face www.fatface.com

Up Close & Personal

Personalise your New Range Rover from Land Rover.

In our last issue we got the opportunity to have a sneak peek at the New Range Rover from Land Rover, at the Stratstone Nottingham exclusive showroom event. Here, we’re looking at the New Range Rover in more detail and the various options available to order.

The starting point of this car already exudes effortless style, but to make the experience specifically tailored to you, there’s a huge range of options you can choose from to create a New Range Rover that is truly personal. An individual model to suit your driving style, the look you love and one that is prepared for any terrain you need it for.

For example, there’s the choice of the Standard or Long Wheelbase body designs which provide elevated luxury for either five or seven adults. There’s the option of sustainable and contemporary technical fabrics including a combination of Ultrafabrics™ and Kvadrat™ premium textile on the seats and cabin trims which is available for the first time. There are also Natural wood veneers and metal details, dependant on the model you choose.

With paint personalisation including the SV Bespoke Premium Palette and SV Bespoke Match to sample, a range of different alloy wheel styles, plus fine materials and finishes, you have the chance to design your ultimate Range Rover.

The Range Rover Plug-in Hybrid is available in 440PS or 510PS1 variants to provide sustainable luxury and elevated comfort, while delivering overall CO2 emissions as low as 18g/km2. You can choose between Hybrid, EV and Save driving modes to optimise the powertrain for any journey. Capable of extended range all electric driving of up to 113km (70 miles), the EV mode delivers zero emissions while driving. A range of other high-performance petrol and diesel options are also available depending on your personal preference.

Look out for our review in the next issue of Made when we get that chance to get behind the wheel of this gorgeous new car with an extended test drive.

Note: Details listed for the New Range Rovers are subject to the model chosen. Lead times are currently extended.

To arrange to see the new model upclose and personal, or for further details, call the Stratstone Jaguar Land Rover team on: 0115 6725491 and quote ‘MADE’.

www.stratstone.com/land-rover.

A Dynamic Hybrid SUV

Made takes the Q3 TFSie out for a spin.

Recently, thanks to our friends at Audi Nottingham, we had the joy of driving the Audi Q3 TFSie for a day and to be honest it felt superb, the handling was lovely through the built-up areas of Nottingham and beyond. When we had the chance to shift up a gear onto the open roads, it was a smooth drive that had no trouble gripping corners and handling the gravel tracks with no effect on the feel of the drive at all.

There’s the option to choose between driving modes; for everyday short journeys purely electric driving in EV mode can be selected or in AutoHybrid mode tasks will be intelligently and efficiently divided between the 1.4 TFSI and the electric motor. With an official electric only range of 30 miles it’s great to know that this hybrid will

shift seamlessly between petrol and electric if you’re in for a long haul.

As an SUV this car works for both family and business, it’s lovely to look at – a sleek and tidy finish with a comfortable interior making it feel professional. Moving seamlessly to family carrier it also would work well with plenty of room for the kids and holiday luggage if you’re travelling and comfy enough to keep them content on a long trek.

The Audi Q3 has a multitude of options available to enhance and tailor your driving experience to suit. The car we tested had the comfort and sound pack (Sonos sound system, rear camera and heated seats). Full leather upgrade and a wheel upgrade (19” Audi sport wheels). We loved it.

GRAYPAUL

Made Lifestyle is proud to introduce Made TV. Made is committed to providing you content from, and related to, the region as our team is out and about. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to keep up-to-date with the latest videos including car reviews, recipes, businesses, culture, heritage, our experiences and more...