Made Lifestyle Magazine – issue 43. Nov/Dec. 24

Welcome to the November/December issue. Made

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As winter’s chill begins to settle in, I’m excited to share our latest edition, inviting you to wrap yourself in the warmth of the season. This issue is all about celebrating the magic of Christmas right here in Nottinghamshire, with a roundup of festive events that will light up the months of November and December.

As November unfolds, you can feel the festive spirit in the crisp air, starting with those vibrant firework displays that dazzle against the night sky. Remembrance Sunday offers a moment of reflection and gratitude, allowing us to honour those who have served, before the joyful holiday cheer takes over. The transition from autumn to winter creates the perfect backdrop for the excitement of preparing for Christmas.

Join us as we dive into species recording with Erin McDaid and explore the significance of nature conservation. You’ll also discover the enchanting world of Rachel Wood’s ceramic art, where creativity meets craftsmanship.

In Home & Garden, we take on the fun challenge of choosing bathroom taps and offer tips for maximising your winter garden. If you’re looking to create a cosy festive atmosphere at home, our guide to seasonal décor is sure to inspire you.

Culinary enthusiasts will love our feature on Martha Brown’s journey from budding baker to successful entrepreneur, plus don’t miss our festive bites section with quick and easy recipes from Teresa Bovey to elevate your holiday gatherings.

Finally, escape to the serene beauty of Thoresby Vale Country Park and Edwinstowe, where nature provides the perfect backdrop for winter adventures. We also keep you updated on the exciting electrification of beloved vehicle models, so you can stay in the loop about travel trends.

This issue is a heartfelt celebration of warmth, creativity, and community as we embrace the joys and challenges of the season. I hope it inspires you to find comfort and cheer in every corner of our region as we count down to Christmas together.

Remember, we're eager to hear from you! Share your news and exciting events with us–we love connecting with new friends and discovering what's happening in the months ahead.

the Cover: Christmas lantern from Décor Clever with lights. Photograph by Jon Rogers. www.decorclever.com

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ISSN 2515-6551 Cover design by Jon Rogers

Made is designed and published by Createinn Ltd.

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

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Inside This Issue

Health & Beauty

48 Seasonal Fashion

Serene seasons: cosy neutrals for winter.

Amidst the joy: navigating loneliness during the festive season. By Chris Collins, Life Coach.

Discover the festive events across the region this November and

Food & Drink

56 Rising To Success

Made meets Martha Brown to explore her journey from a budding baker to a successful entrepreneur.

Rachel Wood is a studio ceramic artist, who is known for her alluring handbuilt and thrown pieces that seamlessly combine enormous liveliness with timeless serenity.

Home & Garden

59 Festive Bites

Quick and easy festive ideas, treats and recipes. By food demonstrator and home economist, Teresa Bovey.

Travel & Leisure

68 Thoresby Vale Country Park & Edwinstowe

Explore the natural beauty and charm of this countryside ramble around Thoresby Vale Country Park and Edwinstowe. By travel writer and photojournalist Sally Outram.

One of the mainstay models in the Audi UK range is today embracing full electrification for the first time.

News

The local roundup Palace Fund Awarded To Support Future Of Arts In Newark

The Palace Theatre has awarded its latest ‘Our Past Your Future Fund’ grants to four local young people pursuing a career in the arts.

The Palace Theatre has awarded its latest Our Past Your Future Fund grants to four local young people pursuing a career in the arts.

The Fund was set up in 2020 as a legacy scheme to mark the Theatre’s 100th birthday. To honour a centenary at the heart of Newark, the Palace team wanted to help ensure that culture would continue to thrive in the local area by supporting young residents aged 16 to 25 with their creative career ambitions.

This year, the Theatre received 15 applications covering a wide range of disciplines, from ballet to sound recording, musical theatre, choreography and fashion design.

Tommy-Lee Storr was awarded the main prize of £1500. He will be using the money to support his BA (Hons) in Musical Theatre at the prestigious Emil Dale Academy. Tommy-Lee has already made a strong impact in Newark’s art scene, taking part in Newark Amateur Operatic Society’s

productions from age 11 onwards, training at the local Elaine Varney School of Dance and, more recently, leading classes himself at Studio29 and supporting Market Place events with Newark Town Council.

Carys Coulton-Jones, Business Manager for Heritage and Culture at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “We were truly impressed with Tommy-Lee’s interview where his passion really shone through. He made it clear that he wants to continue giving back to the community and inspiring future generations which is exactly what the Our Past, Your Future Fund is all about. I wish him all the best in his studies and his sparkling career! Break a leg!”

Further secondary grants were awarded to Harvey Woodward, Sophie Brown and Isobel Cropper who will be studying ballet at the Academy of Northern Ballet, Leeds, Location Sound at the National Film and Television School and musical

theatre at Lincoln University respectively.

Councillor Rowan Cozens, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Heritage, Culture and the Arts at the District Council, said: “The number and variety of applications this year were really encouraging and are evidence of the talent and passion that our local area produces. I’m delighted to see the Palace Theatre continuing to champion the arts in Newark and Sherwood and encourage everyone to support their local theatre so that this brilliant Fund can continue for many years.”

Palace Principal Sponsors Tallents Solicitors are partners in the project and the company’s Senior Partner Alistair Millar said: “Tallents Solicitors had already been practicing in Newark for 150 years when the Palace Theatre was established in 1920 and it’s been incredible to see how it has become just an important part of the Newark community we all live in. For over 100 years now, the Palace Theatre has

had an exceptional pedigree in both welcoming, encouraging and inspiring emerging and upcoming creative talent in our market town.

“With our continuing support, we are delighted to be able to help the Palace Theatre Newark reach out to the local community and support those seeking to become involved in the wonderful world of theatre and performing arts. This year, the selection of a winner was made even harder by the exceptional range of talents shown by the applicants. We are delighted that TommyLee will now be able to pursue his dream of a musical theatre degree with the help of the Our Past Your Future Fund.”

The team at the Palace Theatre welcomed the national tour of Blood Brothers visiting their stage in Oct and are now gearing up for the festive fun of panto season for this year’s seasonal spectacular Aladdin.

www.newark-sherwooddc. gov.uk

WalkSafe

North Notts BID has launched WalkSafe, a new personal safety app, to help people make safe journeys across Bassetlaw.

‘NottAlone’ Website

‘NottAlone’

website set to improve mental health in Notts, launches on World Mental Health Day.

APP FEATURES

The app is FREE to download and can be used by anyone, including employees, shoppers, students and the general public. The app allows you to add your own trusted circle, choosing from friends or family who you wish to share your location with. The app also shows the location of Safe Space venues across the district, including hospitality venues, libraries, leisure centres, refuge points and more. The Night Angels’ live location is also accessible on Saturday evenings in Worksop and Retford town centres, so if you are feeling unsafe and in need of help, you can locate them and approach them with ease. The app has been promoted within secondary schools across Worksop, Retford, Harworth and Bircotes and Tuxford. This has allowed us to communicate to students how the app can help them make safer journeys to and from school and in the holidays.

On World Mental Health Day this year, a brand-new website was launched to help support residents of Nottingham and Nottinghamshire with their mental health.

The aptly named ‘NottAlone’ aims to connect local people with free mental health support services, as well as offering advice and guidance on a range of mental health topics.

World Mental Health Day in October, was chosen as the date to officially launch the new website NottAlone. org.uk

NottAlone, which originated as a mental health support website for children and young people, was first launched in 2021 as a dedicated resource for those aged 0-25 years. The success of this website inspired an expansion to create a version of NottAlone accessible to everyone from Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, no matter what age they are.

This all-age approach to NottAlone has been over a year in the making, with a brand-new website developed through involvement from a partnership team made up of members of Nottinghamshire County Council, Nottingham City

Council and the Nottingham and Nottinghamshire NHS Integrated Care Board.

Co-production has been a core value at the heart of NottAlone from the very beginning, ensuring that every part of the website, brand and even language used feels right for the people of Nottinghamshire. Groups of local people, some with lived experience of mental health struggles, gave insight and input into the development of the new website and branding from the very beginning.

One of those involved in the co-production, Debs Dulake, 52 from Kirkby-inAshfield, began working with the team right at the start of the expansion project. She said: “Working on this project has given me so much back already, knowing the importance of having such valuable information easily accessible. Every person I have worked with has been open to my opinion and gone above and beyond to

make me feel as involved as all the 'professionals' working on the project.”

Co-founders of NottAlone, Dr Maddi Popoola and Dr Orlaith Green, shared why now is the time to expand, and their exciting vision for the new website.

Dr Popoola, Educational Psychologist and Mental Health Support Team Service Manager at Nottingham City Council, said: “I’m so proud to be able to share NottAlone with an even wider audience across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. To see NottAlone come to life over the past few years and watch its success with children and young people has been so rewarding, so to look ahead to how many more people it will help, is incredibly fulfilling.

Visit www.NottAlone.org.uk to take a look, share the link with friends and family and follow NottAlone on social media. TikTok: @NottAlone  @WeAreNottAlone X: @NottAlone1

 @NottAlone1

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Mansfield's Skills Hub

£8.8 million skills hub will propel Mansfield into “exciting and prosperous” future.

The creation of an £8.8 million skills hub to train people for careers in emerging industries and help businesses adapt to new technologies has taken a major step forward.

Due for completion in summer 2025, the flagship facility will accommodate around 300 college students and will deliver qualifications at level 3 and above, with a strong focus on innovation and STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) subjects.

Incorporating facilities to support construction, engineering and digital technologies, it aims to prepare Mansfield to meet future labour market needs, plug skills gaps, and create better-paid jobs, particularly in sectors that are growing through advances in technology and automation.

This latest college building will provide 1,343 m2. of high-quality teaching space across two floors and be a focal delivery point for T Levels – technical-based qualifications developed in collaboration with employers.

It will also offer opportunities for businesses to benefit from the technological expertise of the college and Nottingham Trent University (NTU) and their networks of industrial partnerships.

Andrew Cropley, principal

and chief executive of West Nottinghamshire College, said: “We look forward to working with our partners from Nottingham Trent University and in local businesses to help young people, adult learners and employers develop the skills and knowledge that will enable them to seize opportunities and grow our economy.

“This building will provide a great partner to our sixthform college at the Chesterfield Road campus and make this site a focus for nurturing skills and expanding knowledge in the very heart of the East Midlands.”

Funding for the multi-millionpound project is through a £4.3 million allocation from Mansfield District Council’s Towns Fund pot, £3.8 million from the Education and Skills Funding Agency as part of the second phase of its Further Education Capital Transformation Fund, and £734,000 from the college and NTU.

The centre will serve as a knowledge exchange between the college, university and employers – giving businesses greater understanding of future trends and the opportunities technology will bring, plus support with product and process innovation.

There will also be spaces where students and employers can work

collaboratively on projects to support the greater use of evolving technology.

This will allow learners to gain significant work experience on technology-driven projects, giving them valuable insight into how businesses work while aiding their progression to higher education or employment.

Meanwhile, businesses will gain access to support and a ready-made future workforce, helping them improve their competitiveness and efficiency. The building will also host regular business engagement events and roadshows, showcasing specialist equipment to firms in the district and surrounding areas.

The building’s lower groundfloor will incorporate a T Levels centre, library and circulation space, while its upper ground-floor will house 11 classrooms and circulation space. Additional car parking spaces will be created, along with electric vehicle charging points, bicycle storage and new areas of soft and hard landscaping to provide a welcoming environment for students.

The centre will incorporate Ashfield House, an early nineteenth-century Georgian building, which has been retained and will have prominence in front of the skills

hub, forming a visual link between the area’s past and present.

In addition, the portico on the former School of Art building has been retained and will be re-positioned to create the entrance to the new centre, preserving the historical significance of this architectural feature.

Gavin Peake, director of IT, estates and learning resources at the college, said: “This new facility, in the centre of Mansfield, will enable our students to study towards innovative careers in areas such as engineering, construction and digital, and fill skills gaps for many local firms. It will be an extremely welcome addition to the college’s estate and will further strengthen our links with employers in responding to future-facing job roles.”

Darren Chapman, operations director at Clegg Construction, the building contractor leading on the site’s development, said: “As a Nottinghamshire-based contractor, several of our staff, including me, are West Nottinghamshire College alumni and neighbours. We are especially excited to be involved in the creation of these new facilities, which will support the future training of professionals in a range of sectors, including our multi-faceted construction industry.”

College vice-principal Louise Knott (third right) and Mansfield Mayor Andy Abrahams (fourth right) on their site visit, joined by (from left) Clegg Construction’s senior contracts manager Lyndon Bowler, operations director Darren Chapman and project manager Andy Turner; Mansfield District Council’s regeneration programmes and projects manager Geoff George; the college’s director of estates Gavin Peake; and NTU’s director of knowledge exchange Jeremy Hague.

advisory

Wildlife Murals To Brighten Up Bassetlaw

Designs for two new murals have been created to help brighten up part of Worksop and Retford town centres thanks to funding from Bassetlaw District Council.

The initial artwork for the murals has been created and designed by A-level students at The Elizabethan Academy and students from Inspire Learning at Worksop, supported by local artist Garry Ashton and UKPSF Arts & Heritage Officer Georgina Lancaster. The designs are currently be-

They have been based on wildlife identified by Notts Wildlife Trust as endangered due to climate change, and that are local species to the district.

Cllr Steve Scotthorne, Cabinet Member for Identity and Place said: “I want to thank students for their hard work

“As well as being decorative, the murals will also educate people about the impact climate change is having on our native species and encourage them to take action.”

The murals will be placed in Retford on the side of West Street Pre-school,

The final designs, painted by mural artist company BlankWalls, will feature QR codes for people to scan to find out more about the endangered wildlife featured, what people can do to help prevent their decline, and slow down climate change.

The project has been de -

Lizzie Songhurst - Photography, songhurstphotography.co.uk

Festival Of Food & Drink

Delights visitors with culinary treasures & entertainment

The Festival of Food & Drink at Thoresby Park celebrated its 11th anniversary this year! Visitors to the festival enjoyed its vibrant atmosphere, a diverse array of street food, artisan producers, and award-winning cuisine. Ddelicious dishes from around the world were served by talented street food vendors and pop-up cafes.

The ‘Beautiful Things’ marquee featured exquisite gifts and crafts from UK designer makers, including handcrafted jewellery and homeware.

The 500-seated Cookery Theatre, hosted an impressive lineup of celebrity chefs, including Great British Bake-Off stars Matty Edgell and Josh Smalley, bestselling author Rachel Allen, and the renowned Marcus Bean, Phil Vickery, Rosemary Shrager, and Chris Bavin.

With over 160 quality food and drink retailers, attendees explored a fantastic range of award-winning products. Live music added to the atmosphere, making the Festival of Food & Drink 2024 another great event to this year’s calendar.

Sign up to the newsletter on www. festivaloffoodanddrink.com to be the first to find out details and know who will be with us for 2025!

All imagery courtesy of The Festival Of Food & Drink.

EMICS

- 40th Anniversary

The East Midlands Immediate Care Scheme (EMICS), a charity delivering life-saving emergency care across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Rutland, and Northamptonshire, is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a mission to raise £10,000.

For four decades, EMICS has been at the heart of the region’s emergency response, providing the expertise and equipment of a hospital directly to those in urgent need, significantly improving survival rates in life-threatening emergencies.

Reflecting on the anniversary, Dr. Tim Gray MBE, founder, said, “In 40 years, we’ve answered over 50,000 emergency calls, and each one of those calls represents a life changed and a family helped. This fundraiser is about ensuring we’re ready to keep making that difference for years to come.”

EMICS was formed in 1980 when Dr. Gray was called to a road

Today, EMICS works closely with the East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS), responding to the most critical incidents either through direct dispatch from the EMAS Control Room or upon request from ambulance crews needing advanced medical support. Most of EMICS’ volunteers are NHS professionals who offer their free time to provide this vital care.

It’s our 40th birthday!

Help EMICS continue saving lives across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Rutland, and Northamptonshire

Learn more and donate today at www emics org uk FOR FOUR DECADES, EMICS HAS BEEN AT THE HEART OF THE REGION’S EMERGENCY RESPONSE, AND WE NEED YOUR HELP

“EMICS wouldn’t be here without the community’s support, and we need your help now more than ever,” said Dr. Grey. “Your donations keep us ready to respond, whether it’s emergency heart surgery on a city street or providing care in rural areas. 4

“He saved my life It’s a reminder of how fragile life can be, and how important it is to be surrounded by people who know what to do in an emergency.”

Limited 2 Art

From a humble art collector to the owner of the largest commercial gallery of its kind, Made enters a world of visual stimuli to meet Ruth, founder and owner of Limited 2 Art.

It may be more appropriate to say Ruth’s art collection has simply continued to grow, blossoming into something that is now shared with her customers rather than for herself, and this passion for her art, and artists, makes for an all-themore authentic experience.

Now boasting over two decades in business, having recently celebrated their 20th birthday, Limited 2 Art has enriched 5 locations in its time, finally settling in its first self-owned property on Bridgegate, Retford. This new location provides a huge space to lose yourself in the mastery of its surroundings with paintings, sculptures and limited-edition prints bursting out of every nook and cranny... and the discovery goes on as you traverse the art-clad stairwell to yet another floor of visual treats.

The purchase of this building marked a double celebration, as no sooner had the hammer come down, news of the birth of Ruth’s husbands twin grandsons was announced, marking the day as an unforgettable moment of joy in both business and personal lives.

As well as being the largest gallery of its kind, Limited 2 Art proudly showcases the largest collection of Edge Sculptures available, as well as De Rosa Ceramics, with every piece lovingly hand-painted, the result of unique craftsmanship and artistic skill.

Ruth, pictured here with the pieces in the gallery by Tracey Krupianka.

In 2024 Ruth inspired the ‘Human Chain’ to transport the artworks from the previous gallery to the new premises, the exciting event was featured on the BBC and ITV local news.

A secluded viewing area with cinema seating and ambient lighting allows for private viewing, providing you with the time and space to absorb the possibilities of the relationship between you and your next potential work of art.

Ruth’s passion continues, with regular ‘shows’ provided at the gallery throughout the year. These shows feature her artists, providing the opportunity for art owners, buyers and fans alike, to meet them in person, ask questions, get a piece signed or maybe even see some work in progress. Ruth plans to deliver more of these type of events in the future, so another great reason to enquire about that VIP invite list.

You can visit the gallery on Bridgegate, Retford, from Tuesday to Saturday 10am – 4pm, or by appointment only outside of these times, so why not pop in and add a splash of colour to your day, you’ll be glad you did.

Ruth now has many new exciting events and exhibitions planned for 2025. Keep an eye on the gallery’s website and social media for the details.

For further details and enquiries contact:

Limited 2 Art

Call: 07966 104550 Email: info@limited2art.com www.limited2art.com

Limited 2 Art offers a bespoke framing service which can add the perfect compliment to any piece. Commissioning a bespoke frame lets you choose whatever style, colour and size you like, giving you a frame which really works for you, with a quick turn-around. Contact Limited 2 Art for details.

Join us for Tracey’s first solo show where we will be raffling an original painting to raise funds for the Bassetlaw Hospice.

A passionate painter since her school days, initially opened a shop selling her artwork and painted glassware. After moving to Australia and raising twin girls, she returned to the UK, committing to painting full-time. Tracey now teaches workshops and offers art demonstrations across Northern England. Her work caught the attention of Limited 2 Art, leading to a successful collaboration that now sees her pieces stocked in galleries across the UK.

Meet Tracey In The Gallery

Saturday 16 Nov, 1– 3pm

Open event, just turn up!

Limited 2 Art, 22-24 Bridgegate, Retford, Notts, DN22 6AA 07966 104550 info@limited2art.com www.limited2art.com

Meet The Artist Tracey Krupianka

Blue Plaque Celebrates Canal In Retford

A new blue plaque on the former Crown Inn was formally unveiled by the Mayor of Retford, Cllr David Naylor, as part of the town’s Heritage Day events.

Retford Civic Society and the Chesterfield Canal Trust have worked together to have the plaque made and installed. Cllr Dan Henderson and Cllr John Manners covered the cost from their Community Funds.

The original route of the canal was to go from Chesterfield to Bawtry, then a major port on the river Idle. However, strong lobbying by the people of Retford, led by the Rev Seth Ellis Stevenson, promoted a change to bypass Bawtry and instead go through Retford and thence to the River Trent. On 25th January 1770, James Brindley, the canal’s engineer, announced at a meeting in the Crown Inn that he was now recommending the Retford route. It is this meeting that is celebrated on the blue plaque.

The canal opened fully in 1777, but it got as far as Retford in November 1774. The first boat to arrive was the cause of much celebration and a hogshead of ale was given to the residents. Given that this is 54 gallons, there may have been a few sore heads the next day!

In the 1770s, the Crown was the town’s principal inn and was used for a wide range of business and administrative purposes. The Chesterfield Canal Company frequently met there. Over the years it has seen many changes, including being a building society. As a drinking establishment it has had many names including the Crown, the Crown Hotel, the Litten Tree and most recently Yates’s. The latter closed in January 2017 and the building sat empty and forlorn until recently being turned into flats by a developer called Garnet Harrison. When approached, he

was very pleased to host the plaque.

Rod Auton, Secretary of the Chesterfield Canal Trust, said “We are delighted to be unveiling this blue plaque. It is very fitting that this is happening on Retford Heritage Day because the canal has been a feature of life in Retford for 250 years. We are very grateful to Retford Civic Society for arranging everything, to Garnet Harrison for allowing the plaque to be placed on his building and to Cllrs Henderson and Manners for covering the cost from their Councillor Community Funds.”

Keep Vicar Water Flowing

Work is underway at Vicar Water Country Park to improve the flow of the river as well as its ecology.

Regular visitors to the stunning country park, managed by Newark and Sherwood District Council, may have noticed the works taking place around the river and the signage around them. These are all part of The 3 Rivers Restoration project, a partnership between Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust and Severn Trent.

One element of the project, which is also looking at Rainworth Water and Bevercotes Beck, has seen District Council officers working together with Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust to improve the flow of Vicar Water through the park, addressing low flow issues and preventing water loss as well as increasing the ecological resilience of the waterways through a range of environmental measures.

Initial works began last year to remove lots of scrub around the stream, opening up the waterway and letting the light in as well as installing coir matting around Vicar Pond to stabilise the bank. The District Council’s contractor is now on site conducting scrub and tree clearance before working to reshape the river channel, creating new wetland areas, ponds and meanders.

To find out more visit www. newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk/ vicarwater.

Above: Cllr Dan Henderson, Rod Auton, Cllr John Manners Below: 1772 Map by John Lodge. Images courtesy of Chesterfield Canal Trust.

Let's Talk Christmas...

Early planning can significantly improve the festive season. That's why we're taking steps now to offer our luxurious bespoke gift hampers at The Country Victualler this year.

Our hampers, hand-packed and adorned with our signature ribbon and your personal message, make a truly unique gift. You can also customise your own hamper by selecting products and adding them to our luxury hamper box. Our Christmas selection includes premium British Free Range Pork & Red Tractor Certified meat, upholding the highest animal welfare standards. It features our exclusive Aderton Marmalade Glazed Ham, Christmas cocktail party food for all gatherings, festive roasts and poultry, handmade pies, and award-winning pâtés and terrines. We even create our Country Victualler Christmas pudding using a secret heritage recipe. All our products are meticulously handcrafted and made to order from scratch!

To obtain your Country Victualler Christmas brochure, simply subscribe to our newsletter and enjoy exclusive online deals!

Discover more by finding The Country Victualler on Facebook @The Country Victualler Pod Artisan Butchers & Bakers. Here, you can find hot food-to-go specials, pensioner 10% off Wednesdays, our Pod's news, and special weekly offers. PS. Our Pod offers FREE PARKING too!

You can find us at: The Country Victualler Pod Ashvale Rd, Tuxford, Newark. NG22 0NH Opening: Tues - Fri, 8am-4pm. Sat, 8am-1.30pm. Enjoy our fridge-to-fridge service where you can order online and collect via the Pod. For details visit: thecountryvictualler.co.uk

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Harley Foundation

Welbeck, Worksop, S80 3LW

Ian Kirkpatrick –ICONOCLASH

On Now — 5 Jan 2025

Global events, video games and ancient artifacts collide in larger-than-life artworks which tell darker stories about our modern world.

British-Canadian artist Ian Kirkpatrick draws together symbols from diverse sources such as cartoons and cave art, remixing them to tell his own stories about the complexities of modern life. In these ornate and layered artworks, these familiar symbols reflect Ian’s search for meaning in a world of increasing uncertainty. Visit to see large-scale sculptures, enormous quilted wall pieces and digital artworks turned embroideries.

harleyfoundation.org.uk

Harley Young Artists: Speaking In Symbols With Ian Kirkpatrick 16 Nov

For ages 11-16. £10 each. Book online. Spend a morning working with professional artist Ian Kirkpatrick and create a new piece of public art which will be displayed outside the Harley Gallery. In this workshop, young people aged 11-16 will explore Ian’s exhibition ICONOCLASH – delving deeper into his world of street signs, bright colours, and dystopian worlds. Using his artworks as a springboard, they will learn how to tell stories with pictures, and express their ideas about the past, present and future. Crafting their own images out of reflective vinyl, they will build up a collective design that explores their hopes, fantasies and fears for the future. This outdoor mural will then be displayed outside the Harley Gallery for the duration of the exhibition.

The Harley Young Artists series gives young people a chance to work with professional artists. It is an opportunity to develop skills and gain an insight into a range of creative careers.

harleyfoundation.org.uk

Autumn Exhibition

Autumn exhibition of original paintings.

25 Nov - 14 Dec, Sally Michell's Gallery, Tuxford.

Sally Mitchell Fine Arts, with its Gallery based in Tuxford, Nottinghamshire is holding its Autumn Exhibition of original painting featuring artists such as John Trickett, Malcolm Coward, Paul Doyle, Frederick J. Haycock, Rosemary Welch and Jonathan Walker. The Exhibition takes place from 25 Nov until 14 Dec with the preview being held on 24 Nov 2pm – 4pm. All are welcome at the Preview event and the Museum of the Horse (above the Gallery) will be open to explore too.

To request a copy of the catalogue, email: info@sallymitchell.com or call: 01777 838234 Exhibition paintings will be available to view on www.sallymitchell.com

John Trickett

John Trickett has a beautiful natural ability to create the most stunning works of art. His time spent studying scenery and taking photographic references of his subjects for action and composition, coupled with his natural talent to paint, results in the most realistic and stunning landscapes, seascapes, country sports and wildlife paintings.

When professional football player, John Trickett moved to Torquay and started to paint in his early twenties, he would never have imagined that this would lead to him becoming one of the most important dog painters of our era.

Born in Sheffield, John’s greatest ambition to play football was realised when he played firstly for his local town in Grimsby, then profession-

ally for Torquay. Whilst in Torquay, John, who had always had an interest in painting started to paint portraits, landscapes and seascapes. Once his portfolio had grown, he held an exhibition in his local library which was a great success; this spurred him to find someone to promote his work. On seeing an advertisement in a magazine, John contacted Sally Mitchell and travelled to meet her with a couple of originals under his arm. Sally, being so impressed with his work bought the originals and so one of the longest partnerships in the business of artist and publisher began.

His paintings of black Labradors were once described by the Shooting Times as some of the finest in the world. His time spent studying scenery and taking photographic references of his subjects for action and composition, coupled with his natural self taught ability to paint allow him to create the most realistic paintings.

A family man, John Trickett lives in Nottinghamshire with his partner and their cats. His three children and grandson all play a major part in his life.

John’s paintings and prints hang in houses all over the world and he continues to be one of the greatest dog painters of our time.

To find out more about John Trickett and his work the wonderful book ‘Reflections of the Countryside’ (edited by Sally Mitchell) contains over 230 full colour images of his paintings and prints.

For more information contact Cath at raybooks@msn.com or on 0780 3204424

The gallery is open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm (closes at 2pm on Tues).

Instagram @cathraygalleryandstudios @christinehowardartist @nature-hog

Facebook Cath Ray Gallery & Studios

Christine Howard A Decade Later

Exhibition At Cath Ray Gallery & Studios.

58b Bridgegate, Retford, DN22 7UZ. 9 Nov - 21 Dec

Christine Howard will present a survey of work produced over the last decade at her new exhibition “A Decade Later” at Cath Ray Gallery and Studios on Bridgegate in Retford.

The subject matter for Christine’s work varies but tends to focus on the natural world. She is an artist who grew up on a farm in Nottinghamshire and is constantly drawn to the fields and woodlands, animals and insects that inhabit the land. Her richly-coloured paintings of butterflies, dragonflies, wasps and bees are sometimes tiny jewel-like works with gold and silver leaf on the surface, or large-scale paintings that show the grandeur and structure of plants against colourful backgrounds, which suggest the beauty and life force of nature. She is fascinated by the transformation of plants and animals as they grow, mature, and decay and her work makes us look again and appreciate plants, agricultural crops, and animals that we might see regularly but rarely look at in detail.

Christine trained as a painter obtaining a BA (Hons) Degree in Fine Art from Staffordshire University in 1995 and predominately works in oils but also uses a variety of materials such as pencil, ink, watercolour and occasionally precious metals. She first started using gold leaf whilst working on a series of bee drawings, using the gold as a reference to honey. They are incredibly detailed works.

One of these large scale works will be on show at the exhibition. Looking back at her work over the last 10 years Christine recalls, “I remember there came a point where I decided I needed to change my working methods so just stopped using photography as a reference point and began drawing and painting from life again. I would collect all sorts of bits and bobs whilst out walking such as dead insects, leaves and flowers and would always take a sketchpad with me to make notes. It completely changed the way I thought about constructing a painting. I still work in this way now but might from time to time refer to something else, like a video I have taken for example.”

The exhibition runs from Saturday 9th of November –21st of December 2024, during which a series of natureinspired workshops will be running at the gallery.

Nature Workshops

Sunday Sessions

10am-12pm or 1-3pm

20 Oct, 10 Nov, 17 Nov, 8 Dec

These 2 hour Sunday sessions are aimed at children and their families and include workshops on apple-based crafts, squirrels and nuts, leaf-litter and hedgehogs, and Christmas trees. The sessions are run by ‘Nature Hog’ aka Jo Galtrey, a wildlife expert who regularly works with school groups out at Creswell Crags. The workshops are designed to be educational as well as lots of fun and the children (and adults if they chose to join in!) will leave with wonderful things that they have made.

Bookings & info on Nature Workshops: jogaltrey@icloud.com

Charity Art Auction

27 Dec, 7-9pm

The year will finish at the gallery with a large Charity Art Auction on the Friday between Christmas and New Year (27th Dec 7-9pm). Original works of art, limited edition prints and vintage prints that have been donated to the gallery will be auctioned off, with all the money raised going to Papyrus, the charity dedicated to the prevention of suicide in young people. Everyone who comes on the night will be able to have a chat and a drink while they look at the exhibition and then bid for each painting (with postit notes!). It makes for a really fun evening and it’s a great way to fill the walls of your home with interesting artworks for a fraction of the normal cost, and at the same time help out a very worthwhile charity. Last year’s auction for Bassetlaw Food Bank raised over £600!

Nottingham Libraries Unveil Lace History

Nottingham City Libraries and LibraryOn unveil new snapshot into Nottingham lace history.

Nottingham City Libraries has partnered with LibraryOn to present an insightful snapshot into the rich history of Nottingham Lace.

Nottingham Lace evolved dramatically with the advent of the industrial revolution. Innovations in lace-making machinery, such as John Heathcote's bobbin-net machine, revolutionised production, enabling Nottingham to become a global leader in textiles and lace machinery manufacturing. The city’s lace products gained international acclaim.

The new resource, available on the LibraryOn website, showcases the extensive Local Studies collection at Nottingham Central Library. This includes books, maps, artefacts, documents, and photographs that highlight the intricate lace-making

process, the social history of lace production and technological advancements. First-hand accounts from former lace workers, collected in the 1970s, offer a glimpse into their daily lives and struggles.

Councillor Lux, Executive Member for Carbon Reduction, Leisure, and Culture at Nottingham City Council, remarked, "This collaboration between Nottingham City Libraries and LibraryOn celebrates and preserves our local heritage. The history of Nottingham Lace highlights the city’s resilience, innovation, and the contributions of countless workers. By exploring this history, we honour their legacy and gain insights into our cultural and economic development. This resource is crucial for educating and inspiring future generations."

Tiina Hill, LibraryOn Head of Delivery at the British Library: ‘We are so thrilled at LibraryOn to have partnered with Nottingham Central Library on this special project that explores how Nottingham was shaped by the industrial revolution and became the centre of fine lace production. From the first-hand accounts of workers in the factories to photographs of Jardine’s lace machinery, this project highlights the role libraries play in recording local history and offers a fascinating insight into the social and economic impact of lace manufacturing over 400 years in Nottingham.’

Visitors can view the Nottingham’s Lace feature on the LibraryOn website, which includes a timeline of Nottingham’s lace industry, a curated reading list, links to related archives, and 3D exhibitions.

Princess Elizabeth admires Nottingham lace during her visit to the Quincentenary Celebrations in 1949. Source: Picture Nottingham.

This initiative is part of Nottingham City Libraries’ ongoing efforts to make local history accessible and engaging. By partnering with platforms like LibraryOn, Nottingham City Libraries aim to connect people with the rich stories that have shaped their city, fostering a deeper appreciation of Nottingham’s heritage.

For more information and to explore the Nottingham Lace feature, visit LibraryOn, and to find out more about the services in Nottingham City Libraries, visit the Local Studies webpages.

All materials are accessible to library and non-library members by visiting Nottingham Central Library or via email enquiry to: LocalStudies.Library@ Nottinghamcity.gov.uk.

Girls and women working in Thomas Adams’ Lace finishing department in 1914. Source: Picture Nottingham.

Mending lace machines at John Jardine ltd of New Basford, in 1972. Source: Picture Nottingham.

Lace Charmaine examples in 18491949 Century of achievement: the Simon May story. Source: Nottingham Local Studies collection.

An example of early Nottingham machine made lace, c1769. Source: Picture Nottingham.

Panto Season! Oh Yes It Is!

Get ready to laugh and cheer as this year’s pantomime is nearly here!

The Newark Palace Theatre, 6 - 31 Dec

Grab your magic carpet and get ready to fly into festive family fun with this year’s Palace Theatre Newark pantomime, Aladdin!

Running from 6 - 31 Dec, and in collaboration with Jordan Productions, families and audiences of all ages are invited to come along on this journey filled with laughter, magic, and wishes galore!

Beware! Widow Twankey, played by Phil Stewart, is on the lookout for any man in the front row, while her zany son Wishee, played by the outrageously funny Danny Childs, struggles to keep her under control. Alex Scott Fairley is all set to cause trouble as the evil Aba-

nazar this festive season, whilst Emma Marsh is on a mission to stop the baddie as our hero, Aladdin.

Councillor Rowan Cozens, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Heritage, Culture and the Arts at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “Last year’s performance was a great hit, and I thoroughly enjoyed the show. I cannot wait to get back into the theatre this winter for another year of pantomime fun.”

“It’s undoubtedly a must-see, and what better way to spend this holiday season than creating cherished moments with loved ones, surrounded by the enchanting atmosphere of the Palace Theatre?”

The Mansfield Palace Theatre, 23 Nov - 31 Dec

The cast of this year’s Mansfield Palace Theatre pantomime, Aladdin, say they can’t wait to get down to work on the new show.

Speaking at the press launch, panto headliner James Mackenzie told how he was looking forward to having fun on stage and spending Christmas in Mansfield this year – and said it beat having a real job!

The Scottish actor was in Mansfield for the first time and in his portrayal of panto villain Abanazar, he said he would be drawing on the darkness of his TV character Raven, from the awardingwinning CBeebies series of the same name.

“I have played the baddie in panto many a time so I hopefully know what I’m doing,” he joked. “I suppose there was a darker side to my alter ego of Raven back in the day so here, a slightly darker, more stern side."

Joining James on stage will be the Mansfield panto’s comic veteran, Adam Moss, who will be taking the role of Wishee Washee, back for his 11th year in the town.

“They’re a lovely audience - they don’t get offended easily and love to come and watch a good bit of entertainment. You can expect comedy, magic, mayhem - and I might even learn my script this year!”

Nearly 70% of tickets for this year’s festive family treat have already sold so don’t delay in booking your seats.

Adam Hill, Chief Executive of the council, said the annual pantomime made a significant contribution to the local economy: “It’s not just about the enjoyment of pantomime itself that is important for Mansfield.

Widow Twankey wants a husband, Abanazar wants the magic lamp, Aladdin wants adventure, and Wishee-Washee wants some new Spiderman pants! Can the Genie grant all their wishes?

For more information or to book your tickets, please visit the Palace Theatre Newark website: www.palacenewark. com/whats-on

Share the magic of live theatre by visiting the friendly box office staff at the Palace Theatre Newark or call 01636 655755 to purchase your gift vouchers. They will be happy to assist you in choosing the right denomination and provide any additional information you may need.

“The knock-on effect is ten-fold from the purchase of one panto ticket, to that feelgood factor, to a real economic opportunity to improve the lives of the community.”

The council’s Cultural Services Manager, Sian Booth, said: “Mansfield loves panto. It's a really special time. Every year we have packed houses from the start to the very end of the run, 535 people filling every single seat. And we can’t wait to have everybody back.”

Grab your tickets without delay online 24/7 on the Palace Theatre website (link opens in new window) or by visiting or calling the Box Office on 01623 463133.

www.mansfield.gov.uk

“It also brings an economic value, whether it’s an overnight stay, going out for a meal, coming shopping, or making a day of it. Visitors might also look at the museum, or at other cultural programmes.

ShowTime Events

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

Our House

The Palace Theatre, Mansfield

5 Nov

Masque Productions are proud to present the Olivier Award-winning, West End smash hit musical from the writer of Calendar Girls. On the night of his sixteenth birthday, Joe Casey commits a petty crime in a bid to impress the girl of his dreams. As the police turn up, Joe faces a life changing decision: Does he stay and surrender like an honest man, or run and make the escape of a criminal? In a “sliding doors” moment, Joe’s world splits in two, as the story follows the two completely different paths that one moment leads to. mansfieldpalace.co.uk

Nutcracker

Newark Palace Theatre, Newark

19 Nov

This charming and kindnatured fairy tale is one of the jewels of Tchaikovsky's repertoire. Prepare to enter a magical new world and discover that the Nutcracker in this ballet may be a handsome prince in disguise. The original Christmas story is based on The Nutcracker and the Mouse King written by E.T.A Hoffmann. It tells the story of Marie, a sad little girl, whose godfather gives her a Nutcracker doll as a present on Christmas Eve. In her lively imagination it turns into a prince and the magic starts… www.palacenewark.com

Northern Ballet: A Christmas Carol

Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham 26 - 30 Nov

One magical night. Three mysterious ghosts. The spirit of the season is overflowing in Northern Ballet’s A Christmas Carol.

As the clock strikes midnight join Ebenezer Scrooge on the journey of a lifetime to discover the true meaning of Christmas. Travel with the

ghosts of Christmas past, present and future through family firesides, cold winter nights and the promise of a brighter future. A festive feast for the senses, Northern Ballet brings one of the most loved stories of all time to life. Directed and Devised by Christopher Gable CBE. Choreographer Massimo Moricone. The show will be performed with recorded music. trch.co.uk

Twist, A Comedy

Thriller By Miles

Tredinnick

Retford Little Theatre, Retford 18 - 23 Nov

David is a mild-mannered accountant who sees a way of making a fortune by writing a kiss-and-tell biography about his venomous wife, the nation’s favourite actress from a hit TV soap. In this hilarious spoof of the popular theatrical genre, the thriller, nobody is what they seem and nothing is what it should be. Just when you think you know what's going to happen next - another "twist" catches you out. www.rlt.org.uk

Treasure Island By Le Navet Bete & John

Nicholson

Robin Hood Theatre, Averham, Newark

10 - 14 Dec

A rollercoaster of a comedy show for all the family; a hilarious, rip-roaring adventure encountering swashbuckling pirates, tropical islands and high seas. Experience the epic adventure of Treasure Island as you've NEVER seen it before. Set sail with Long John Silver and some other characters you may not expect and prepare for a belly laughing journey to the Caribbean and back. X marks the spot this Christmas! Arrrghh! www.rhtc.co.uk

Guy Masterson’s

A Christmas Carol Nottingham Playhouse, Nottingham 19 Nov

Olivier award winner Guy Masterson’s astonishing solo of Dickens’ mystical festive fable. The perfect Christmas treat! Olivier Award winner, Broadway and West End director and veteran of many globally acclaimed solo classics such as Under Milk Wood and Animal Farm, Guy Masterson, returns to Nottingham with Dickens’ masterpiece! Famed for bringing multiple characters to vivid life, Masterson gives us Scrooge, Marley, the Fezziwigs, the Cratchits, Tiny Tim et al in a riveting, lively and moving performance that will enchant, dazzle, and linger long in the memory. Guaranteed to get you into the Christmas Spirit – in many more ways than one. nottinghamplayhouse.co.uk

NMTO Presents 'ALL THAT JAZZ'

The Majestic Theatre, Retford 15 Dec

‘Hey, Big Spender!’ – spend a little time with the Northern Musical Theatre Orchestra and Chorus, as they bring you a delicious programme of big band Musical Theatre classics! NMTO is proud to showcase the talents of local people, as well as the best of the West End and UK Touring Productions. Relax and enjoy the sounds of our 60-piece orchestra, alongside a talented chorus and guided by a team of professional guest performers. Consisting of some of the most toe-tapping numbers in Broadway’s history, including ‘Chicago’, ‘Sweet Charity’, ‘Funny Girl’, ‘West Side Story’ and ‘42nd Street’, as well as all the old-time Christmas hits from Bing Crosby, Dean Martin, Judy Garland and Nat King Cole –just to name a few. majesticretford.org

Dukeries Arts Society Civic Centre, Carlton-in-Lindrick, S81 9AP

6 Nov

The Scoliotic Knight: Reconstructing The Real Richard III

Speaker: Tobias Capwell. Discovering the grave of King Richard III in Leicester raised many new and fascinating questions? The severe scoliosis shown by the skeleton, contrasted with his skills of the knightly fighting arts and questioned his wearing of the battle armour. With the King’s royal legitimacy questioned, the visual trappings of nightly Kingship was used to solidify his claim, his armour used as an expressive art form, designed to radiate messages, justification and proof of the wearer’s right to rule as King.

20 Nov

The Art & The Scandalous Lives Of The Bloomsbury Group

Tickets are on sale for £30

These days allow the speaker to give more information on a specialist subject with 3 lectures spread throughout the day.

4 Dec

Christmas, It’s A Wonderful Life & The Forgotten Genius Of Frank Capra

Speaker: Collin Shindler

The principal aim of this Lecture is to understand the films of one of America’s greatest film makers by placing his work in the historical context of Jeffersonians democracy. Although Capra’s films were mostly set in his contemporary America, the Talk looks at the reasons why that rural idyl, foreign to the growth of a modern urban country, resonated so powerfully with audiences during the Great Depression. He won Best Director Oscar 3 times in 4 years. The speaker will also look at the spirit of small town America today.

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

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

Events

Remembrance Day

11 November

In Flanders Fields

By John McCrae

In Flanders fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on row,

That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie, In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw

The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.

National Holocaust Centre & Museum

Acre Edge Road, Laxton, Newark, NG22 0PA

Meet Holocaust Survivor: Arek Hersh MBE 19 Nov 1pm – 2.30pm

We are delighted to welcome the incredible Arek Hersh MBE to share his testimony at the Museum. Arek survived two ghettos and several concentration camps, including Auschwitz Birkenau. Almost all his family were murdered. Arek now shares his testimony and does everything he can to counter assertions that the Holocaust was just a ‘detail of history’. A professionally filmed video of Arek showing him revisiting the places in his past will also be shown at 12.15pm www.holocaust.org.uk

Inspire Libraries Events

Christmas Markets In Libraries

Mansfield Central Library –23 Nov, 10am – 2pm

Worksop Library – 30 Nov, 10am – 2pm

Browse handmade items from local makers, enjoy indulgent treats and take part in family activities this festive season at your local library. With carol singing and visits from Santa Claus, there’s no better place to start your Christmas shopping!

Family Concert

The Sounds of Music

Worksop Library – 9 Nov, 1pm

Tickets £4 library members £7 non-library members

Travel with us on a magical musical tour to find out how the development of musical instruments changed the sound and the style of music we listen to. Listen as our band of musicians re-create songs from artists like Pink Floyd and Beyonce exploring the origin of the sounds used and the cultural heritage they came from and create. For ages 5 – 11 and their families.

The Magical Major Oak: Winter & The Sparkling Snow

Retford – 19 Nov, 10.30am

Worksop – 19 Nov, 2pm

Mansfield Central – 21 Nov, 11am and 1.30pm Newark – 22 Nov, 2pm In Association with Nottingham Playhouse. Tickets £2. Wrap up warm and join Marian and her friends on a magical winter adventure in the forest, with the nurture and wisdom of the Magical Major Oak guiding their way. Featuring inspiring storytelling to spark the imagination and a host of woodland friends to meet, The Magical Major Oak: Winter and the Sparkling Snow is an enchanting interactive adventure that’s perfect for children aged 2 - 4.

Under 5s Little Creatives

Mansfield Central – 1 Nov, 6 Dec

Worksop – 2 Nov, 7 Dec

Newark – 5 Nov, 3 Dec

Retford – 5 Nov, 3 Dec

Southwell – 14 Nov, 12 Dec

10am and 11.15am

FREE. Help your little one to unleash their creative imagination and develop new skills with the help of our professional artists.

Come and share in the active, playful, and sometimes messy fun! The Little Creatives workshop programme is continually evolving, and you can expect a different experience with each artist in the team.

Heritage Talk The Nottinghamshire Pit Pony

Mansfield Central –19 Nov, 2pm

£3. This talk by Janine Buckley celebrates the tremendous efforts of the county’s pit ponies. With first-hand accounts from former pony drivers and freshly discovered documentary and photographic evidence, this talk delves deeply into the lives of a workforce that gave all they had. All attendees will receive a complimentary book.

Heritage Talk Shireoaks Colliery

Worksop – 20 Nov, 2pm

£3. Shireoaks Colliery has a unique place in mining history. It existed for 137 years and touched the lives of thousands of local people – perhaps more than any employer in the locality. Join former miner and mining historian, Phil Whitehead, to hear tales of engineering, endeavour and enterprise from the area’s earliest colliery.

Author Talk

Sara Nisha Adams

Newark – 20 Nov, 2pm

£3. Join us for a conversation with Sara Nisha Adams, author of The Reading List and The Twilight Garden. We’ll discuss the inspiration behind her writing, the importance of libraries and reading, and the shared themes of community, hope and unlikely friendship in her two novels.

Live Music

Jazz Steps Live: Matt Ratcliffe ‘Unity’

Worksop – 19 Nov, 7.30pm

£13. Unity is a Hammond Quartet in the style of the classic Blue Note Hammond Organ groups from the 60's, covering classic tunes from Larry Young's seminal album of the same name. The band play with fire, energy and burning swing. In this project Matt conjures the exciting Hammond organ swing of Larry Young and serves up some funky grooves as well. For ages 18+.

Live Music

Jazz Steps Live: Pete Donaldson Blues Band

Worksop – 10 Dec, 7.30pm

£13. Blues back by popular demand! We welcome back the Pete Donaldson Blues Band who take inspiration from classic blues artists including BB King, Albert and Freddie King as well as more contemporary players such as Jimmie Vaughan, Ronnie Earl and Bruce Katz. For ages 18+.

Dementia Friendly Film Screening:

Pillow Talk (PG)

Mansfield Central Library –20 Nov, 1.30pm

£1. An interior decorator and a playboy songwriter share a telephone party line and size each other up. These relaxed screenings are particularly suitable for people living with dementia and memory challenges, their family and friends but anyone is welcome. Please feel free to talk, sing and move during the screening.

Live Music Songs & Scones

Retford Library – 6 Dec, 2pm

£2. Who doesn’t love a cup of tea, a lovely scone and some social music-making?

Live Music Now’s Songs & Scones programme brings people together to regularly engage with live music and connect with others in their local community over a cup of tea, a scone and uplifting live performances from professional musicians. The events are particularly suitable for older people – including those living with dementia and their carers - but all are welcome to attend.

Dementia Friendly Film Screening

Home Alone (PG)

Mansfield Central –11 Dec, 1.30pm £1. An eight-year-old troublemaker, mistakenly left home alone, must defend his home against a pair of burglars on Christmas Eve.

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.

Christmas

Discover some of the magical festive events across the region ...

A Christmas Feast:

Chatsworth Reveals Its Festive Theme

9 Nov – 5 Jan

An original new festive story, written exclusively for Chatsworth by multi-award winning children’s author and former children’s laureate, Joseph Coelho OBE, is the backdrop to this year’s Christmas at Chatsworth.

‘Henry and the Lion’s Christmas Feast’ is an enchanting story inspired by Chatsworth and the life and work of Henry Cavendish, the eminent eighteenth-century scientist and grandson of the second Duke of Devonshire.

The book tells the tale of young Henry and his accomplice, a little lion, inspired by the giant stone statues in the Sculpture Gallery at Chatsworth, as they go on a quest to find a festive feast and the adventures they encounter along the way. The house and garden will be transformed into a magical adventure where visitors can follow in the footsteps of the story’s protagonists, with scenery and decorations incorporating the book’s illustrations, created by award-winning illustrator Vivien Mildenberger.

Visitors of all ages will be able to spot the characters as they journey through the house, with a menace of mischievous mice hiding along the route, carrying food to the feast. Guests are also invited to hunt for the little lion himself as they make their own way to the banquet, laid out in the Great Dining Room.

Pop up theatres, which have been crafted in partnership with London’s oldest toymakers, Benjamin Pollock’s Toyshop, will also bring the story’s illustrations to life, with a special example in the Great Chamber allowing visitors to step inside the story and see things from the lion’s point of view.

The celebration continues in the garden, where an illuminated light trail. Derbyshire-based digital artists Illuminos have again been commissioned to create a brand new projection for 2024, which will bring the characters from the book to life.

Tickets must be booked in advance. A programme of festive events is taking place throughout the season, including Storytime with Father Christmas at the Farmyard from 6 - 23 Dec. For details visit: www.chatsworth.org

Thoresby Park

Thoresby Park. NG22 9EP

Courtyard Makers Market

3 Nov, 10am – 4pm

Little Hummingbird Events are returning to Thoresby Park for the final Courtyard Makers Market of the year. With a selection of local creatives, makers, and artists, bringing a varied selection of handmade crafts and food, it’s not to be missed!

www.thoresby.com

Christmas Trail

Begins 7 Dec

Looking for some festive fun, join us at Thoresby Park for our enchanting Christmas trail. Just £2.50 per trail sheet where you can win a prize at the end! www.thoresby.com

Christmas Breakfast with…

7 Dec, 9am

Elsa, Anna, Kristoff & Olaf

14 Dec, 9am

Ariel, Moana, Spiderman & Captain America

21 Dec, 9am

Mickey, Minnie, Daisy, Donald, and Santa’s Elf

Join us for a festive experience this December which includes a cooked breakfast and a drink, plus entertainment from the children’s favourite characters. www.thoresby.com

Winterfest

30 Nov & 1 Dec, 10am – 4pm

A variety of craft and gift stalls perfect for your Christmas shopping plus lots of family entertainment! A fun filled Christmassy day out for all the family! Free entry, just £3 car parking. www.thoresby.com

Doddington Hall & Gardens

Main Street, Doddington, LN6 4RU

A Christmas Chorus

9 Nov – 23 Dec

Discover a truly mesmerising experience as you journey through ‘A Christmas Chorus’. From Christmas classics to popular seasonal tunes, step into the music of Christmastime as it unfolds over three floors of the Elizabethan Hall, with a Doddington twist of course! It’s an opportunity to soak up the seasonal atmosphere of Christmas in a treasured family home, which has seen a lot of Christmas mornings over its four hundred year plus history. A chance to see what the present-day family and staff have created and to think about how Christmas may have looked and felt through the centuries. Spectacular scenes have been created by Doddington staff, volunteers, local artists and students from Lincoln College. In the run up to Christmas we’ll be extending opening hours on selected dates into early evening, so visitors can make the most of twilight with the warm glow of decorations and twinkling fairy lights.

Adult £15, Child 4-16yrs: £8.50 (3 and under free), Family (2 adults and 2 children): £40, Family (1 adult and 2 children): £27, Doddington Season Ticket Holders: Free For all the times and dates please visit: www.doddingtonhall.com

Chatsworth’s Annual Christmas Market

9 Nov to 1 Dec

With more than 100 exhibitors offering festive-themed gifts, foods and drink. Chatsworth’s Orangery and Stables shops will be open all season, with Christmas gifts, homewares and clothing made by some of the region’s finest sustainable producers, designers and craftspeople.

Tope left image courtesy: Chatsworth House Trust.

SATURDAY 23rd NOV

12:00PM - 6:30PM OLD MARKET SQUARE

SUNDAY 24th NOV

10:00AM - 6:00PM MARKET SQUARE

FRI: 3PM - 6PM · SAT: 10AM - 3PM

CIVIC SQUARE FRI 29th & SAT 30th NOV

SUNDAY 8th DEC

2:00PM - 6:00PM TOWN SQUARE

Fairytale Magic is Coming to Nottingham

Happily Ever After Skate at National Ice Centre

National Ice Centre, Nottingham. 14 - 17 Nov

Fairytale magic is coming to Nottingham with a special Happily Ever After Skate ahead of the much anticipated annual Disney On Ice shows rolling into town.

Disney On Ice is coming to Nottingham Motorpoint Arena with Road Trip Adventures this November, featuring Mary Poppins Returns, Toy Story 4, Incredibles 2, The Lion King, Aladdin, Moana, and Frozen all in one ice show.

It’s a huge production that event manager at Motorpoint Arena, Michelle Humphreys, looks forward to welcoming each year. It’s all hands to the deck to make sure everything is ready for the arrival of the cast of skaters who have been touring the show internationally before the UK tour gets underway in November.

A new one stop Motorpoint Arena app is now available to make securing tickets for all the live entertainment coming up as quick and easy as possible. It will also be a great way to keep up-to-date with upcoming shows with the option to receive notifications when a show announces or goes on sale.

As well as buying tickets, the ‘one stop shop’ will let users buy hospitality experiences and upgrades at the click of a button. Just search Motorpoint Arena Nottingham in the App store and download the Ticketek App.

Tickets for Happily Ever after start at £5.50, with under 5s going free. Find detailks on: national-ice-centre.com/whats-on/ happily-ever-after-skate www.motorpointarenanottingham.com

Southwell Minster

Southwell

A Christmas Carol 14 Nov, 7.30pm – 9.45pm Venue: The Nave Chapterhouse Theatre Company present: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens at Southwell Minster.

On Christmas Eve, the most magical night of the year, the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge is whisked away on a terrifying journey through the past and into the future, accompanied by three fearsome ghosts determined to make him realize the true meaning of Christmas. Charles Dickens’ classic ghost story is brought alive in this most traditional of productions, complete with beautiful period costume, song, dance and a magnificent, original musical score. Join critically acclaimed theatre company Chapterhouse as Scrooge’s frozen heart begins to melt and he finally embraces the festive spirit in this most Christmassy of Christmas tales. www.southwellminster.org

Marshall's Yard Gainsborough

Marshall's Yard Launches

Christmas 15 & 16 Nov

Join Marshall's Yard this November to celebrate the launch of the Festive Season. Event sponsored by Bomead, McDonalds Gainsborough. On the Friday night we will have the amazing BBC Radio Lincolnshire host Sean Dunderdale hosting our official Christmas lights switch on Count down! With special guest appearances from Pudsey the bear in relation to Children in Need. The magical light switch on with be hosted at 7pm - with lots of entertainment, stalls and food to enjoy before and after the main event!

Fun fact.

When Disney On Ice is in the building, the whole place smells of warm popcorn! They spend hours each day making popcorn and candy floss for the shows.

We also will be welcoming two original Marshall's Tractors for attendees to spectate bringing the history of the site to life for all to enjoy. Here's what to expect over this exciting two day event: Over 20 festive stalls including gifting and festive food. Live Entertainment including performances from the talented LED Drummers & JAXX Band on 15 Nov and The Room 21 Brass Band on 16 Nov. Plus lots more - keep an eye out for our Christmas Scheduling. Santa's Grotto on Fri 5-8pm & Sat 12-3pm. Walk about Act from The Star Wars Inquisitors. Children's amusements and free face-painting on both days.

Festive Fayre

30 Nov - 1 Dec, 10am – 3pm

Get warmed up and in the festive spirit by celebrating and shopping in a magical but traditional Christmas atmosphere. Pick up some amazing handmade gifting ideas for your loved ones. Parking available in Marshall's Yard with overflow car park in Station approach available for all day parking for only £1.

estive Farm Comes To Marshall's Yard

7 Dec - 8 Dec, 11am - 3pm

Mention Made Whenvisiting our advertisers Itwouldn’t exist withoutthem

Join us for a CUTENESS overload. Ian’s mobile farm is bringing his loved farm animals to Marshall's Yard for shoppers to enjoy on the weekend. Expect to see these cute animals festively dressed in their cute and cosey jumpers! You can pet these animals whilst in their festively dressed pens. Located in front of The Works Stores. www.marshallsyard.co.uk

Clumber

Park

Worksop S80 3AZ

Walking With The Snowman

16 Nov – 5 Jan

Take a wintry walk and relive the magic of Raymond Briggs’ heart-warming picture book, The Snowman™. Discover a trail of twelve giant Snowman sculptures which can be found at iconic locations across the park, each decorated with designs inspired by the song The Twelve Days of Christmas. With themes of friendship, imagination and adventure, The Snowman™ is the ultimate festive story to explore with family and friends so, grab your snow boots, wrap up warm, and get ready to go on a magical journey. Free event, no booking required, admission into the park applies.

Clumber Park

Christmas Fayre

23 & 24 Nov and 7 & 8 Dec, 10am – 4pm

Soak up the spirit of Christmas, and cross some presents off your list, with stalls selling handmade treasures and festive delights. Free event, no booking required, admission into the park applies.

Winter Wreath Making

26, 27 & 28 Nov, 10am – 12pm & 1.30pm – 3.30pm

Including a cream tea, head to the Clock Tower Parlour for a wreath making session using materials gathered from across the Clumber Park estate. Booking essential through www.nationaltrust. org.uk.clumberpark, £45

Heritage & Horticulture

Amble

16 Dec, 11am – 12.30pm

Look back at how the ducal family of the Regency era celebrated Christmas; the games that were played, the role of the 4th Duke's protestant Christianity, and the charitable responsibilities that the family felt they had towards the nearby villagers. Free event, no booking required, admission into the park applies. Meet outside the Heritage Hub.

Christmas Eve 10k Run

9am

Dress up and take in the spectacular winter scenery with a special festive run and finishers medal. Free event, no booking required.

Winter Lantern Walks

28 & 29 Dec and 4 & 5 Jan, 3pm & 4.20pm.

Wrap up warm and join us at dusk for a guided walk around the Pleasure Grounds and walled kitchen garden. Hear tales about the lives of the Dukes of Newcastle and see Clumber in a different light. Max 40 people per walk, £3 per ticket, booking essential. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Meet Father Christmas 16 Nov – Christmas Eve

There'll be magic and Yuletide cheer as Father Christmas arrives in his grotto in the Old Parsonage. Offering more dates than ever before, including quieter sessions and BSL sessions on Wednesdays.

Booking essential through www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ clumberpark

GIFTING &EVENTS HOMEDELIVERY* BREWERYTOURS

Country Park

Ollerton, NG22 9DF

Mini Christmas Market

Weekends - 16 Nov - 22 Dec, 10am - 4pm Stalls, gifts, and seasonal delights in the heart of Rufford. Running every weekend starting 16 Nov until 22 Dec, our charming Mini Christmas Market is the perfect place to find something special. With up to 12 stalls on each market day, you’ll discover a wonderful variety of Christmas gifts, decorations, jewellery, and even special treats for your pets—there’s something for everyone!

While you’re here, don’t forget to explore the Courtyard Gift Shop, offering a beautiful selection of gifts and decorations to suit any style. The Mini Christmas Market will be located in the Coach House Courtyard, with plenty of seating available, so grab a warm drink and enjoy the festive atmosphere!

Entry to the market is free, regular car parking charge applies. ruffordabbey.co.uk

Welbeck Abbey Brewery

Thoresby Park. NG22 9EP

Brewday Experience

Various dates available

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

Brewery Tours

30 Nov & 1 Dec, 10am – 4pm

The tour presents a rare opportunity to peek behind the closed doors of an award-winning traditional microbrewery includes two pints of beer.

You can purchase Brewery Tour Gift Tickets online for 2025 Brewery Tours. welbeckabbeybrewery.co.uk

01909 512 539 welbeckabbeybrewery.co.uk

@welbeckabbeybry

SCAN ME

Light Post Farm

Magical After Dark Trail To Shine New Light On Family Farm Attraction

White Post Farm, Farnsfield, NG22 8HL. 21 Nov - 22 Dec

Light Post Farm sees the popular family farm near Newark teaming up with Gloworm Festival to present an enchanting festive light trail experience.

The fields of Farnsfield will be illuminated by more than 250,000 sparkling lights to enhance the features of the much loved farm with plenty of photo opportunities along the route. Dozens of glitter balls will float above the duck pond along with its life sized Boom Box playing Disco classics; the Rainbow racetrack will explode into colour and sound and the Jungle Barn will sparkle with planets and stars. The Enchanted Garden will come to life with Gingerbread Houses, flowers and lights, where visitors can expect the weird and wonderful and a 60m long illuminated Triangular Tunnel will light the way. Art students from Nottingham College have designed a life sized illuminated Advent Calendar and are now building the installation ready for the opening.

There will also be the chance to meet rare breed new born lambs expected late November, who will be kept cosy in the Silver Barn where all the farm babies and older animals live. Miniature Donkeys and Reindeers will be arriving in late November to spend Christmas at White Post Farm. The 1km trail will wind around the outdoor animal enclosures and indoor barns, including the Reptiles of the World, home to West African Dwarf Crocodiles and the indoor Jungle Barn play area newly added this year.

Admission includes the Mini Christmas Market. Children can join Ginger Snap to decorate gingerbread or create some magical reindeer dust to take home for Christmas Eve. All the farm cafes are open as normal up to the closing time of 9pm.

Opening on 21 Nov, Light Post Farm is now open for bookings for timed slots from 5pm every Thurs to Sun up until 22 Dec. With tickets at £12 per person and £45 for families, Under 2s go free. Booking fees apply. White Post Farm pass holders receive 20 percent off on Thurs and Sun visits.

The trail is accessible to wheelchair users and suitable for pushchairs with free parking on site, at an easy to reach location within 30 minutes by car from Nottingham, Mansfield, Newark and Worksop. www.gigantic.com/light-post-farm-tickets.

Mansfield Museum

Leeming St, Mansfield NG18 1NG

Christopher’s Christmas.

17 – 22 Nov, Show times 11am or 1pm each day. From the company who brought you The Lost Present… A Christmas Adventure! comes a new wintery tale for the whole family to share.: Christopher’s Christmas.

It's Christmas Eve and Christopher Nibble and his family are putting the finishing touches to his tree when their festive fun is interrupted by a shocking radio announcement. Father Christmas is lost! His Santa Nav has broken and he can’t find Dandeville!

Christopher’s Christmas is written especially for children aged 2-7 and their families and is a Makaton friendly performance.

Told using beautiful puppets and stunning scenery, Christopher’s Christmas is a collaboration between the creator of Christopher Nibble, Charlotte Middleton, and Claire Alizon Hills of Topsy Turvy Theatre.

£11 adult, £9 concession, £36 family ticket, £8.50 group/ schools of 10+ tickets www.mansfield.gov.uk

Newstead Abbey

Ravenshead, Nottingham NG15 9HJ

Snowed In At Newstead Abbey

Weekends & school holidays 25 Nov 24 – 5 Jan 25

(excludes Christmas Day ) Delight in Snowed In at Newstead Abbey, with our magical installations and a self-led walk through our Historic House.

Adults: £15 / Kids Go Free (15 and under) Parking or site entry charges apply.

Family Friendly Tours

Weekends in Dec, 3 pm

With this exclusive tour, you’ll be able to discover the Narnia at Newstead festive scenes and learn about Newstead Abbey. Tour length: 1 hour

Price: Adult £15 / Kids go free (15 & under) with each paid adult. Recommended for 5 years and up. Parking or site entry charges apply.

Craft stalls

During weekends (30 Nov22 Dec)

Explore craft stalls in the medieval cloisters of Newstead Abbey that offer a range of gifts and treats. Site entry or parking charges apply: £6 per car and £2 per head for walkers or coach newsteadabbey.org.uk/ christmas

Café and shop open 7 days (closed Christmas Day)

Friday 8 – Saturday 9 November 2024

60+ stalls, plus 15 more in the State Chamber next door Jewellery ❉ Glassware ❉ Ceramics ❉ Textiles …and lots more Friday 8 November 2024, 4-8pm Saturday 9 November 2024, 10am-3.30pm Entry £3 suggested donation

Sunday 24th November 10am - 6pm

12.15-12.30pm Heather Turner Dance Tuition

12.45-1.15pm Fame Academy Retford (formerly MTS)

1.30-1.45pm Blue Ice Cheerleaders 2.00-2.20pm The MOB (Retford Theatre Group)

2.30-3.15pm LCSD Dance Academy 3.30-4:00pm The Performance Hub 4.05-4.30pm Jessica Mary Brett 4:45-5.00pm Civic Ceremony 5.00pm Lights Switch-On and... ...the grand finale featuring great ABBA tribute band: Abba Fever.

Mr Straws House

Opening the door to a Christmas past

Thurs & Fri between 21 Nov & 20 Dec 5-7 Blyth Grove, Worksop, S81 0JG

Mr Straw’s House will be opening its doors to visitors for the festive season this year, giving you the chance to experience it in a whole new light.

Usually closed during the winter for its yearly conservation clean, the house will now be open, providing a unique chance to experience nostalgia by peeking into the Christmas celebrations of a grocer’s family in a Midlands town during the 1920s.

Behind the closed blinds, you'll find cosy rooms with handcrafted decorations and festively adorned mantlepieces complete with the family's Christmas cards. Admire the family's dining table set for the festive feast with its original crackers and get a real sense of the old simple traditions.

Booking slots are open 4 weeks in advance. Visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Sherwood Forest

Edwinstowe, NG21 9RN

Illuminate: Biofluorescence In Nature At Sherwood Forest 15 Nov, 6pm – 7.30pm

£30 (£24 for RSPB members) booking required.Discover an invisible natural world on a night time adventure and experience nature in Sherwood Forest in a whole new light.

We’ll explore and discover a different perspective on nature as it glows in the dark creatures under the light of a UV torch. This is a new and emerging conservation technique; join us as we make new discoveries together. Nature is never predictable and we’re just as excited to

National Justice Museum

High Pavement, Nottingham, NG1 1HN, Worksop, S80 3LW

The Spirit Of Solstice: A Festive Murder Mystery

28 Nov - 20 Dec, 6.30pm Winter Solstice 1922. The depths of winter have gripped Nottingham and the local charitable philanthropist from Westwood, Nottinghamshire has invited the residents of the local village to Nottingham’s Shire Hall for a festive celebration with a twist. Prepare to gasp in delight as they present a worldrenowned Spiritualist as the night's entertainment. Will they be able to connect with the spirits of the past on the darkest and shortest day of the year?

All guests are invited to be seated in the candle-lit Courtroom as the séance begins... £55.99 per person including: Three-course Christmas meal, Arrival fizz cocktail or mocktail, Murder mystery event. To be able to cater for all guests and arrange seating plans, please contact us to confirm your dietary requirements three weeks in advance of the event. Scroll down for more information about our food and drink. www.nationaljusticemuseum. org.uk

see what comes to life under ultraviolet light. It could be some of our incredible invertebrates and the extraordinary organisms which love to grow upon Sherwood’s ancient oak trees.

Ticket price includes parking charge. This walk is not suitable for children under 14 years old. Young people under 18 should be accompanied by an adult. It is not an appropriate activity to bring a dog along either. visitsherwood.co.uk

National Civil War Centre

14 Appletongate, Newark, NG24 1JY

Christmas With The Curators

30 Nov, 3pm

Meet our curators Glyn and Kevin and kick off the festive season with a delicious Christmas cream tea in our café. Join them on a special tour of our galleries; open display cases, handle objects from our collection and find out what’s involved in looking after our treasures. Book now for £25 to include a cream tea and gallery tour.

Please alert the Box Office by emailing palace@nsdc. info or calling 01636 655755 if you have any dietary requirements.

Evening Talk:

A Very Merrie Noyse At Christmas 10 Dec, 7.30pm

Come and get Christmassy with us at this joyful evening talk about historical Christmas music! All proceeds to The Friends of The National Civil War Centre. Book now for £10, or £3 for Friends and volunteers. www.nationalcivilwarcentre. com

Sherwood Pines

Kings Clipstone, NG21 9JL

Sherwood Christmas 10k & 5k

24 Nov, 10k/5k – 10am

Junior Race – 9.30am

A fun, family-friendly event for all. Three race distances –junior race, 5k and 10k. Fancy dress is strongly encouraged and there are finisher medals for all as well as other prizes Booking required. www.forestryengland.uk

Creswell Crags

Crags Rd, Creswell, Worksop, S80 3LH

Abominable Snowman Cave Experience

30 Nov, 7 & 14 Dec, 12pm

The Abominable Snowman is real, and we're expecting him to be hiding in Robin Hood Cave this Christmas! Children and adults are invited to join us in Robin Hood Cave for a magical Christmas experience led by our Ice Age guide. Then one by one, you'll venture further into the cave where you'll meet the Abominable Snowman himself! The adventure is expected to last 60-75 minutes including a walk to the cave and due to health and safety restrictions of the cave only those over 5 can take part. Accessing the cave involves steps, uneven surfaces, and low ceilings, so please get in touch before booking if you are concerned about you or your child accessing the cave. www.creswell-crags.org.uk

Santa's Grotto

Weekends in Nov & Dec

Various times

Santa is joining us at Creswell Crags again this year! Join us in our crafting room, making your own take home crafts while you wait to see the big guy. Simply book your timeslot, then when you arrive you'll receive your waiting list number and you can get crafting. As soon as it's your turn, you'll hear us call! Each family will get to visit Santa in his grotto when their number is called, and each child you have bought a ticket for will be given an age-appropriate Christmas present. Book online. www.creswell-crags.org.uk

Santa Special Cruises

Chesterfield Canal, various start points

On all our Santa Special Cruises, there will be a present for every child and a mince pie (or similar) and a drink for every adult. £10 per person. All bookings online.

John Varley Ll From Tapton Lock

30 Nov and 1, 7 & 8, 14 & 15, 21, 22 & 23 Dec

Various times from 10am – 3pm available.

Madeline From Hollingwood Hub

7 & 8, 14 & 15, 21 & 22 Dec

Hugh Henshall From Shireoaks Top Lock

1 Dec at 12am & 1pm; 7 & 8, 14 & 15, 21, 22 & 23 Dec (Various times from 11am – 3pm)

Seth Ellis From The Chequers Inn At Ranby

7 & 8 Dec at 12pm, 1.30pm & 2.30pm; 14 & 15, 21 & 22 Dec

Various times from 10am – 3pm available.

To book visit: chesterfield-canal-trust.org. uk/santa-special-cruises

Nottingham Castle

Lenton Road, Nottingham, NG1 6EL

Christmas Market

30 Nov & 1 Dec

Get ready for a festive weekend at the ‘It's in Nottingham's’ Christmas Market set within the grounds of Nottingham Castle. www.nottinghamcastle.org. uk

Christmas At Bassetlaw Museum

Get into the festive spirit at Bassetlaw Museum

7 Dec, 10am - 2pm, Bassetlaw Museum, Retford

See vintage tractors and beautiful Christmas decorations. Enjoy recitations and keep a lookout for Santa on a tractor! Browse a range of Christmas gifts and stocking fillers. Free admission. Donations welcome.

Christmas Displays At Bassetlaw Museum

Come and see your beautiful museum transformed into a festive wonderland. Step into the Drawing Room, where you’ll find charming Victorian decorations, complete with a welcome fire and inviting seating. Head up the grand garlanded staircase to the landing, where you’ll find a snow village. Admire Christmas trees placed around the many themed rooms including the children’s toy area and the music room to reflect their history.

There will be plenty of opportunities to take festive pictures.

Come along and support your local museum. There is no entry fee, but donations are always very welcome.

For our Christmas and New Year opening times, visit: www.bassetlawmuseum.org.uk

Christmas Countdown

Ye Olde Bell

Barnby Moor, Retford, DN22 8QS

Time To Party

Christmas Party Nights

30 Nov, 80s themed - £45 per person

6, 13, 20 Dec - £50 per person 7, 14, 21 Dec - £60 per person

11 Jan - £45 per person

Our Christmas calendar wouldn't be the same without our DJ led party nights. Enjoy an arrival glass of Prosecco, festive savouries, followed by a festive two course meal and dancing until late!

Santa Sunday Lunch

1, 8, 15 & 22 Dec

Join us for our superb traditional Sunday lunch with a special Christmassy twist. Includes a visit from Santa and a gift for each child.

Santa will visit between 1.30pm – 2.30pm. Later bookings available on request. £45 per person, Children under 12 half price, under 5s free

Boozy Brunch

14 Dec 11am to 2pm

Live sax, Prosecco & time to catch up with friends! Enjoy the festive feels with a delicious brunch and a small glass or two of Prosecco.

£30 per person (including half a bottle of Prosecco)

Festive Fayre

From 1 – 23 Dec, 12pm - 3pm & 5pm - 8:30pm

Our annual festive fayre menu for 2024 is back. Packed with delicious Christmassy goodness, will you go for 2 courses or 3?

For full details, more events and booking visit: yeoldebell-hotel.co.uk

Share Your Events

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

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

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.

www.madeinn.co.uk

Newark Town Hall

Newark Town Hall, Market Place, NG24 1DU

Faulty Towers - The Original Dining Experience

5 Dec 2024

Doors 7pm, show 7.30pm

Straight from London’s Theatreland via the legendary Sydney Opera House, this international sensation is now coming to Newark Town Hall. Officially the world’s most sought - after tribute to the BBC sitcom, Faulty Towers The Dining Experience is simply unmissable –and ‘outrageously funny’ (BroadwayBaby)! Become part of the action as Basil, Sybil and Manuel serve up mayhem on a plate along side a three-course meal and two hours of nonstop laughter.

£52.50pp - All tickets include a 3-course meal and 2-hour interactive show. Over-18’s only. Please note if your party is less than 10 people you will be allocated a seat on a mixed table. Notify us via email if you're buying separate tickets and you're part of a group booking wanting to sit together. www.ticketsource.co.uk

Totally Mad Bingo

12 Dec, 7 pm

Come and join the fun at the newest sensation, sweeping the nation… Totally Bingo Mad! A night of crazy music, laughter and your chance to win fabulous prizes! Stage décor, Bingo Balls, Tv’s, Books and prizes for a night to remember. Themes include, Movies, TV Theme Tunes, Pop, Soft Rock/Anthems, Classics. Tickets:£35.pp - All tickets include a food sharing platter for the table and live entertainment with a disco and DJ. If your party is less than 10 people you will be allocated a seat on a mixed table. Please notify us via email if you're buying separate tickets and you're part of a group booking wanting to sit together. www.ticketsource.co.uk

Norwood Park

Halam Road, Southwell, NG25 0PF

Christmas Market 7 & 8 Dec

A festive weekend within the gorgeous Norwood Park Estate. Stallholders will be located within the rooms and grounds for you to browse with a hot chocolate and a mince pie. The charm and history of Norwood Park will be the perfect setting for a festive Christmas Market, bringing gorgeous seasonal produce, delicious hot food & festive inspiration. For times and to book visit www.norwoodpark.co.uk Tickets available on the door. Children 16 and under – Free Entry. Dogs Welcome.

Christmas Afternoon Tea

15 Dec, 12pm or 3pm sitting Get in the festive spirit with our wonderfully festive Afternoon Tea menu at Norwood Park which will be dressed for the occasion.

www.norwoodpark.co.uk/ whatson

Renaissance At Kelham Hall

Kelham, Hall, Newark. NG23 5QX

Big Christmas Disco Party Nights

7 & 14 Dec, 7pm

Are you ready to get your groove on this holiday season?

This is the ultimate event to celebrate with family, friends, and coworkers. Our party night includes an electrifying disco dance floor, dazzling lights, and festive decorations that will transport you straight to the disco era. Including a welcome drink, a 3-course festive dinner and disco until midnight.

Scrooge Immersive Dining Experience

18 Dec

Step into the enchanting world of “A Christmas Carol” at our immersive dining experience, “Scrooge Immersive Dining Experience - A Grave Tale of Things to Come.” Presented by Histoire Productions, join Marley's ghosts in restoring Ebenezer's Christmas Spirit in a whole new way. Enjoy a festive welcome drink, a delicious 3-course dinner, and captivating performances.

ABBA Tribute Christmas Party Night

20 Dec, 7pm

Get ready to put on your dancing shoes and groove to the iconic sounds of ABBA with our ABBA Tribute Christmas party night! Including a welcome drink, a 3-course festive dinner and disco until midnight. www.renaissance-kelham. com

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

Screenings

8 Nov – Paddington In Peru

Paddington and his adopted family, the Browns, decide to visit his aunt Lucy in Peru, but circumstances lead them towards misadventures in the Amazon rainforest and mountains of Peru.

15 Nov – Gladiator II

Years after witnessing the death of Maximus at the hands of his uncle, Lucius must enter the Colosseum after the powerful emperors of Rome conquer his home. With rage in his heart and the future of the empire at stake, he looks to the past to find the strength and honour needed to return the glory of Rome to its people.

22 Nov – Wicked

Misunderstood because of her green skin, a young woman named Elphaba forges an unlikely but profound friendship with Glinda, a student with an unflinching desire for popularity. Following an encounter with the Wizard of Oz, their relationship soon reaches a crossroad as their lives begin to take very different paths.

29 Nov – Moana 2

Moana journeys to the far seas of Oceania after receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors.

20 Dec – Mufasa: The Lion King

Simba, having become king of the Pride Lands, is determined for his cub to follow in his paw prints while the origins of his late father Mufasa are explored.

21 Dec – Sonic the Hedgehog Sonic, Knuckles and Tails reunite to battle Shadow, a mysterious new enemy with powers unlike anything they've faced before. With their abilities outmatched in every way, they seek out an unlikely alliance to stop Shadow and protect the planet.

Christmas Events

7 Dec, 4.30pm –Elf Pyjama Party

Join us for a one-time festive pyjama party featuring ELF on the big screen! Every ticket comes with a luxurious hot chocolate (or your pick of a soft drink or chocolate bag)!

9 Dec, 7.30pm. The Holiday With Christmas fast approaching, we know it’s a busy time for Mums! So why not take a well-deserved break and join us for a one-night-only screening of The Holiday! Each ticket includes a glass of wine or a large soft drink of your choice.

14/15 Dec, 10.30/am/2.30pmCinema With Santa Get ready for an unforgettable cinema experience like no other at our Cinema with Santa event this Christmas! Enjoy a magical screening of The Polar Express or Home Alone with Santa Claus himself along with a goodie bag included for every child.

19 Dec, 7.30pm. Love Actually (Pyjama Party)

Join us for a one-time festive pyjama party featuring Love Actually on the big screen! Every ticket comes with a luxurious hot chocolate (or your pick of a soft drink or chocolate bag)!

Visit www.savoycinemas.co.uk to book the Christmas Events & to find the full listings of all the most awaited movies & live screenings not to miss.

Winter Wonderland

Center Parcs launches new app in time for Winter Wonderland

Center Parcs has launched a brandnew app in time for Winter Wonderland, which returns to Sherwood Forest on 4 Nov.

Guests can log in to the ‘Center Parcs UK & Ireland’ app to see either their upcoming or current break, as well as details of their booked activities and itinerary during their stay – which they can start booking 12 weeks beforehand. Notifications will also be sent via the app, including activity reminders and any updates that may affect them.

Other features include an interactive map and once guests are on the village, they can select walking and cycling options with arrival times, remaining time and distance information as they travel around. Booking passes for an upcoming break can also be added to phone wallets, meaning booking details are easily accessible.

Santa’s Woodland Village will be returning to Sherwood Forest, between 4 Nov 2024 to 2 Jan 2025, following its £1.6 million transformation last year – which included a Woodland Workshop for Santa and his elves, and an exciting Christmas Shop filled with festive decorations, storybooks and cuddly toys.

This year will see a new Snow Zone, where families can take advantage of a photo opportunity in the giant snow globe as snow falls around them. A range of festive activities are also available, including a Toy Making Workshop, Christmas Crafts Workshop and Elf Academy, where little ones can spend hours of fun with village elves.

Those staying at Center Parcs during Winter Wonderland can also experience Festive Storytime in the Tipi or a seasonal treat from the Forest Festive Fayre kiosk. This year the festive snack menu includes two brand-new hot chocolate favours – Rocky Road and Cinnamon Gingerbread - turkey and stuffing roll, festive and veggie snack pots, draft beer, a Christmas tree waffle with chocolate sauce and giant marshmallows toasted on an open fire.

Experiences such as Santa’s Greetings parade will be returning from 5pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays, taking routes across villages in his sleigh. Little ones can also write their own Letters to Santa and receive a magical reply during their break, visit the Enchanted Light Garden filled with twinkling lights, and snuggle up to watch animated bedtime stories on lodge TVs every night from 6pm.

Chris Ruston, Village Director at Sherwood Forest, said: “Center Parcs is the perfect place to make special memories together, particularly during the lead up to Christmas. Last year we invested in enhancing guests’ experiences and the introduction of our app will make the journey even more seamless.

“We look forward to welcoming thousands of guests to Sherwood Forest this year, to experience Winter Wonderland and our new Snow Zone area which is guaranteed to add an extra sprinkle of Christmas.”

Find out more about Winter Wonderland and breaks available on: www.centerparcs.co.uk

Letters To Santa

It’s nearly Christmas, and we know you want to make sure that your letter to Santa Claus gets to him. Make sure your letter reaches Santa by Monday 9 December and don't forget your stamp!

Please make sure you:

9 Write Santa’s address carefully on the envelope

9 Put a stamp on the envelope so it gets to Santa

9 Include your full name and address on the back of the envelope

Santa will be replying to as many of your letters as possible from Monday 18 November; but there are a lot of you, so your letter needs to reach the North Pole by Monday 9 December.

(For more details visit: www.royalmail.com/ christmas/letters-to-santa)

Dear Children, Are you looking forward to Christmas this year? I certainly am! Christmas is a very exciting but busy time for me. The elves are busy making toys. The reindeer are practising their sleigh runs. And I'm busy preparing my list of who's been good. I will be getting my sleigh ready for the long journey on Christmas Eve. In between I will try and reply to as many of you as possible.

Please send your letters to: Santa/Father Christmas Santa's Grotto Reindeerland XM4 5HQ

Giftideas...

1. M&S X National Gallery, Silk Eye Mask, £15. www.marksandspencer.com 2. Accessorize, Bow Cross Body Bag In Burgundy, £28. www.accessorize.com 3. M&S X National Gallery, Bath Elixr, £8. www.marksandspencer.com

Hotel Chocolat, Velvetised Cream Collection, £12.95. www.hotelchocolat.com 5. Hotel Chocolat, Cherry & Raspberry Gin Liqueur, £23. www.hotelchocolat.com

6. Dune London, Saff Pewter Woven Phone Crossbody Bag, £70. www.dunelondon.com

7. Accessorize, Christmas Sausage Dog Pounch Navy, £14. www.accessorize.com

8. Dune London, Balancing Bag In Night Cherry Patent, £95. www.dunelondon.com

Georg Jensen’s Reflect collection. For him or her – Georg Jensen’s Reflect collection uses organic-shaped links to form the contemporary look of this

from Gucci’s Link to Love collection.

An elegant piece that could be worn every day to elevate you look with a little touch of glamour. It is an angular piece that looks a little different to most rings and is engraved with the Gucci logo. £825.

necklace.

Designed by Jaqueline Rabun, this bold, sculptural piece with an integral clasp would be a welcome addition to your collection. £875.

Significance Of Species Recording

Flurry of wallaby sightings underlines importance of species recording across the county. By

Erin McDaid, Head of Communications & Marketing,

Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust.

In late July we were asked to confirm whether the mammal in a photo submitted to Nottingham Post was a wallaby. Under normal circumstances, this would have been a very unexpected request and one which might have been treated with some scepticism, but as a result of a colleague recently mentioning another possible sighting in the vicinity of the one photographed, whilst unusual, this request wasn’t totally out of the blue.

The animal pictured was indeed a wallaby but at the time of providing the confirmation I had no way of knowing that a fleeting interaction with a local journalist and subsequent sightings across the county would trigger a flurry of interest that months later would spark something of a media storm with local, national and even international media interest.

The initial media interest helped generate a number of new records from locations across the county and some weeks later we shared a map of the locations on our social media channels to encourage more people to send in records. The hope was that people would send in records of other species too, not just of wallabies. The map we shared included locations including Bilsthorpe and Bottesford some 20 miles - and approximately 13,000 ‘hops’ apart. This suggested that we were no longer dealing with one isolated escape in the Calverton area and that we may have had wallabies living feral in our county for some time.

As well as prompting records of wallabies to help us gain a better understanding of their numbers and distribution, we hope that the resulting coverage highlights the importance of people submitting their sightings as species records. Here at the Trust, we use a platform called ‘Nature Counts’ – which enables people to submit details of any wildlife they see quickly and easily via our website. Verified records are then collated as part of national recording efforts. Records of sightings help us build a better picture of species distribution and we welcome records of other species all year round. Up to date and detailed species records are vital to help monitor the relative health of species and habitats and can be a hugely valuable tool to identify trends resulting from negative impacts such as climate change, or the spread of non-native species such as the wallaby. Records can also help us assess the effectiveness of proactive habitat management.

Page opposite: Fungi at Gamston Wood, Alan West. This page from top: Wallaby in Calverton, Ben Thompson. Redpoll, Richard Rogers.

As well as being a valuable tool for conservationists, species recording can be a great way to learn about and to connect with nature. Creating accurate records is much easier as your species identification skills improve. For many species groups there are now wonderful ID apps as well as traditional books and websites to help build your skills. As well as being an adjunct to a hobby such as bird watching, photography, painting or sketching, species recording can become a pastime. Each species group, such plants, mammals, amphibians or butterflies and moths, have official recorders in each county who help to collate and verify records. Their efforts, almost exclusively on a voluntary basis, often go unnoticed and largely unrecognised, meaning that recorders are undoubtedly the unsung heroes of nature conservation.

Unfortunately, some people who collect records choose not to share them, meaning that potentially vital information isn’t available to help inform wider conservation efforts. We hope that the ease and accessibility of online platforms such as Nature Counts and similar systems such as iRecord will encourage more sharing in future. Uploading a record is very simple and because most of us now carry a mobile phone with a built-in camera – some of the guesswork can be removed from recording. Where records do need further checking – photos can provide vital clues.

Whilst records of common species or more popular species groups such as birds and mammals are all valuable, seeking out and identifying more unusual and less popular species can offer opportunities to discover species never-before recorded locally or even nationally. In my experience, if you’re interested in making new or at least rarer discoveries – its best to think small. Particularly fruitful areas are micro fungi and micro moths – but many invertebrate groups are under recorded as, I suspect, are species such as lichen, mosses and liverworts. The benefits of focussing on groups such as fungi or mosses is that they don’t move – giving plenty of opportunity to study them up close to make positive a positive identification or to photograph them for verification later on.

Whether you are fascinated by a particular type of plant, animal or other life form, want to get more involved in systematic species recording or just spot the occasional interesting species whilst out walking the dog, I’d urge you to share your records online. You never know, when what you spot might be of real interest to others or might even spark a media scrum like the Calverton wallaby.

To upload local species records via Nature Counts visit nottinghamshirewildlife.org/record

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

From top: Lesser Redpoll, Mike Vickers. Tulostoma brumale Attenborough Nature Reserve, Richard Rogers. Moss, Lizzie Mead. Micro moth, Margaret Holland.

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Rachel Wood

from earth to art...

Rachel Wood is a studio ceramic artist, who is known for her alluring handbuilt and thrown pieces that seamlessly combine enormous liveliness with timeless serenity. Made went to her Harley Foundation Studio on the Welbeck Estate to discover more…

For Rachel, who took French, German and Russian at University for her studies in Foreign Language, it has been an interesting journey into the art world, which later led to her love of ceramics. During her formative years we learn that she was never encouraged to learn art but was always took to it well and enjoyed art classes.

After leaving university Rachel spent years in a variety of generalised roles, and one day out of the blue, she saw an advert in the local paper for a life drawing summer school at Mansfield, at a place where her mother had once taught creative embroidery, and she thought she’d give it a go.

“Once I went there was no looking back”, Rachel laughs. “An innate calling, perhaps. I signed up for a year on a diagnostic foundation course, loved ceramics, and decided from there to take a course at Loughborough College of Art and Design as a mature student. It opened a whole new world for me. I hadn’t realised potters existed before then!”

We learn that over time Rachel drifted slowly, and without resistance, into this world, helping in a craft shop and in community groups and being part of Rufford Craft Centre. It was during this time that she was exposed to international artists who took part in residencies and she started delving into taking part in a number of exhibitions.

up to a couple of weeks for a medium sized item, as time needs to be allowed between each stage of the process, particularly in allowing the clay to firm up, and later for the ceramic bisque firing. For exhibitions and shows, Rachel usually allows around six weeks to three months, with larger pieces taking a week just for their construction.

Rachel’s studio time can vary vastly, and with the backdrop of music and podcasts, depending on the mood or creative process in hand, her days can take shape in many ways as she works through each part of a pot’s design and production. “When throwing sculptural pieces on the wheel there is an element of distortion”, she laughs, “and so there is a bit of everything playing in the background, from pop to blues and even rap.” When using coiling techniques, which we learn from Rachel, is a much slower and calmer process, it seems podcasts come into their own as she listens but drifts into her own meditative state and peaceful creative flow.

“There is most certainly a joy of working with materials that you fall in love with as an artist. It’s a hugely cathartic and yet exciting process.”

“I emptied my spare room, bought a kiln, put up some shelves, and signed up for as many shows as I could,” Rachel explains. “I used to travel a great deal pre Covid, and with my language skills, I found it easy to take part in some of the international ceramic events. Over time, I have had the great privilege to have been involved with many events, exhibiting and even delivering workshops, in German, Italy, Holland, Switzerland, and others. And I love people and absolutely love this element of my work, but of course I am always happiest when I am in my studio, pottering about. “

As we walk around the studio, admiring the shelves and cabinets of beautiful pots, each in Rachel’s signature style, it is clear that Rachel has established a successful and enduring career through her passion.

We cannot help but wonder how much time it takes to create such involved pieces. We learn that a typical piece that Rachel may place on sale or use in her catalogue can take

And we find that conceptually, Rachel’s philosophy of keeping an open mind and letting the clay guide her has been the source of many of her creative successes.

“There are times where I might sketch some ideas, in particular new forms, so I can work out relationships of width to height, for example”, she explains, “but the most exciting work often comes from left field, keeping an open mind and just picking up a scrap of clay that looks interesting, and seeing where it takes you.”

On why she enjoys her work so much, something that is clearly evidenced is the love and inspired detailing she assigns to each pot, Rachel reflects: “There is most certainly a joy of working with materials that you fall in love with as an artist. It’s a hugely cathartic and yet exciting process.”

We were keen also to probe further into where Rachel’s inspiration comes from, as she is known for shaping each of her pieces to convey its own spirit and character, and for wanting to reflect a journey of exploration and learning in each pot.

“I’m drawn towards natural expressive visceral work, in particular to textures and there is something about the asymmetrical form that stirs me”, she smiles.

“I’d say that largely the colours and surfaces I work with stem from an innate love for the countryside, in particular Derbyshire where I have spent much time both walking and cycling. You can see from my colour palettes that I am using matt finishes, energetic marks, and autumnal colours.

“I want any marks on each pot to enthral those who look at it, for these are what make it so unique and captivating. Some forms are soft, some are bold, some are rugged, but each has its own heartbeat.

She pauses for a moment.

“There is something I love about looking at a misty horizon over the landscape, say when it is foggy, and it’s that haziness I try to capture and emulate in my own designs. There’s so much mystery and depth that can be created through marks in each piece, and of course when you are using your own fingers, it becomes so intrinsic.

“I do have one collection though that takes a different more drastic form of inspiration”, she adds. “In 2019 I did a threemonth residency in Australia with a solo exhibition, and it was at the time of the awful bush fires.

“Bizarrely, it took a natural disaster of this kind to give me a growth spurt, as it were, and the pieces I produced at that time were perhaps some of the best I have ever worked on.

“It was a hugely rewarding time, working out of my comfort zone, intense hours, the changing landscapes, and from this I took great inspiration; you can feel the drastic nature of the fires, the colours, the textures in each of the pieces I made then – they are bolder, more chaotic and dramatic.”

In addition to her studio work, and looking ahead, Rachel’s calendar is full of workshops both here and abroad, and she is finding there is an increasing interest from both individuals and groups who are keen to learn from her skills but also to delve deeper into the creative philosophies that are associated with the art of ceramics.

“There seems to be more awareness of crafts and ceramics now”, Rachel offers.

“People are interested in having a go, but sadly there aren’t as many colleges providing courses anymore, hence why perhaps some of my own workshops are so popular, that and perhaps the bespoke, intimate smaller groups setting I offer.”

We suspect there is some modesty here as we know that many of Rachel’s students attend because they are drawn to her particular style.

For anyone wishing to learn more about ceramic work or try their hand with the clay we suggest keeping an eye on Rachel’s website for details of forthcoming events, or subscribing to her newsletter, which includes all her latest news.

We ask Rachel for advice for any budding students and those who want to give ceramics a go.

“I’d say patience is key”, Rachel smiles, “and enjoying the feel. These are very tactile materials, so treat it as an adventure, particularly in the beginning. Experiment. Have fun with the clay, and definitely don’t worry if it doesn’t work out because it often won’t.

“You have to allow the clay to give back to you and explore these qualities, and this takes time, so lots of patience, and of course the process takes time in between each stage. Go away from it, do something else that you enjoy, and then come back to it.

“Eventually you will develop your own voice and give the clay character, working with its marks and form. You will learn good core techniques over time, it is a constant evolving process of learning and discovery.”

As we leave the studio, we wish Rachel a wonderful season ahead as she gets set to embark on several European exhibitions and workshops, including Italy and Switzerland, before returning to deliver one of her popular workshops here at her own studio.

To discover more about Rachel, view the gallery of work and online shop visit: www.rachelwoodceramics.co.uk

 rachelwood.ceramics

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Décor Clever Gifts, gadgets & gorgeous goodies

The Battle of the Bathroom Taps: A Splash of Madness

Navigating the splashy world of bathroom taps without losing your sanity.

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

Ah, bathroom taps. Those shiny, alluring gadgets that promise to transform your mundane morning routine into a refreshing oasis of serenity. But let’s be honest: they’re as confusing as trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube while riding a unicycle.

First, you’ve got the classic mixer tap, the hero of our tale. A noble beast, it combines hot and cold water into a glorious symphony of temperature. But why, oh why, do they insist on having a lever that resembles a fighter jet’s throttle? One moment you’re blissfully rinsing your face, and the next you’re scalded into a screaming banshee because you accidentally pulled it all the way to “lava.”

Then there are the single lever taps. The design genius behind these must’ve been an engineer with a penchant for chaos. You turn it left for hot, right for cold—simple enough, right? But then you discover that the tap is actually a portal to another dimension where water flows in unpredictable bursts. One moment you’re getting a gentle drizzle, and the next, it’s like a fire hose has been unleashed. You’ll need a lifeguard on duty for that kind of action!

And let’s not forget the touchless taps. These are supposedly the pinnacle of modern convenience. You wave your hands, and voila! But, more often than not, you find yourself performing a bizarre interpretive dance just to coax some water out. It’s like the tap is playing hard to get.

In conclusion, choosing a bathroom tap is a lot like navigating a minefield. One wrong move, and you could be drenched, scalded, or flailing about like a fish out of water. So, when in doubt, stick to the good old-fashioned bucket. At least it won’t betray you! Alternatively go and see Fairfax & Porter in Retford. Their wealth of knowledge on all things Bathrooms and Kitchens will guide you from picking a tap to a whole remodelling project!

Fairfax & Porter. Bathrooms & Kitchens of Distinction Retford showroom: Unit 4, Bulcote Business Park, Randall Park Way, Retford. DN22 8WQ Call: 01777 704981 Email: info@fairfaxandporter.co.uk fairfaxandporter.co.uk

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Embracing Winter In Your Garden

By Dene Wood, Head Gardener at Clumber Park.

The end of the calendar year sees us finishing one growing season and setting up the next. Nothing new here for forward thinking gardeners, but we are prompted by the arrival of November frosts demanding the timely completion of certain garden tasks.

So as Clumber peppers the squirrels with chestnuts and slips into its earthy-coloured garb, we start to bring in or protect tender plants, complete any bulb planting before the ground is frozen, and harvest any remaining vegetables that can’t be stored in the soil. Milder winters will still allow the planting of overwintering onions (aka Japanese onions), just expect to harvest them a little later.

As the leaves and flowers recede, interest in the garden is held by evergreens, colourful trunks with textured bark, berries and the skeletal tree canopies. Now is a great time to take stock, while the garden is bare bones, asking if the addition of a winter interest plant or two could offer anything for your garden.

As we approach the end of December, it’s hard not to welcome the gift of lengthening days again. The passing

of the shortest day is a great reminder to get ready for the coming year.

While most of our garden is sleeping, why not set up for what’s to come; sanitising greenhouse glass, staging and pots, pruning overgrown deciduous plants, machinery maintenance, tool sharpening, and a firm favourite amongst gardeners, browsing the seed catalogue then buying way more than we need.

While you are tucked up warm inside, please do what you can for our native wildlife. Bird feeders of various types are no-brainers, but also think about leaving the odd corner of the garden untidy for hibernating mammals, they will pay you back ten-fold when it comes to pest removal in the growing season.

Have a great festive season and a fruitful 2025.

Dene.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/clumberpark

Image courtesy of Steve Bradley.

Creating Festive Cheer At Home

A guide to seasonal decor.

As the holiday season approaches, transforming your home into a warm and inviting space filled with festive cheer becomes a delightful task. One of the most effective ways to enhance your holiday ambiance is by incorporating thoughtful additions to your furniture, such as plush rugs and cozy blankets. These elements not only provide comfort but also help set the stage for your seasonal decor.

To begin, consider whether you prefer a traditional or contemporary Christmas theme. A traditional theme evokes nostalgia with its rich colors, classic patterns, and timeless ornaments. Think deep reds, forest greens, and gold accents that bring warmth and familiarity. To achieve this look, choose a soft, thick rug in a deep hue or an intricate pattern that complements your existing decor. Layer soft, knitted blankets on sofas and chairs, inviting family and friends to snuggle up during cold winter nights. Enhance the traditional vibe by incorporating natural elements like pinecones, holly, and wreaths made from evergreen branches, ensuring that your home exudes a sense of rustic charm.

On the other hand, if you’re drawn to a contemporary theme, you might prefer a more minimalist approach with clean lines and bold colors. This style often features neutral tones accented with striking pops of color or metallics. For a contemporary look, select rugs in geometric patterns or muted shades that act as a backdrop for more vibrant decor. Chunky, textured blankets in unexpected colors can add a modern twist, while sleek ornaments and statement lighting complete the polished aesthetic.

Regardless of your chosen theme, layering textures is essential for creating a cozy atmosphere. Combine soft fabrics and varied materials to evoke warmth and comfort, making your space inviting for gatherings. Incorporate personal touches—such as family photos or handmade decorations—to reflect your unique style and foster a sense of togetherness.

Ultimately, the key to festive cheer lies in creating a space that feels welcoming and joyful. Embrace the season with decor that speaks to your heart, inviting loved ones to gather and celebrate the magic of Christmas in a home that truly reflects your spirit.

Festive Tips!

Make It Personal...

Creating unique and personal Christmas decor adds a special touch to your holiday celebrations. Here are ten ideas to help you craft a festive atmosphere that reflects your personality and style:

Personalised Ornaments

Create custom ornaments featuring family photos, children’s artwork, or meaningful quotes. You can use clear glass ornaments and fill them with mementos like glitter or dried flowers.

Memory Garland

Hang a string or ribbon across a mantel or wall and clip on cherished holiday cards, photos, or small notes that capture favorite memories from past Christmases.

DIY Advent Calendar

Craft an advent calendar using small boxes, envelopes, or fabric pouches. Fill each with handwritten notes, small treats, or activities for each day leading up to Christmas.

Themed Table Centerpiece

Create a unique centerpiece using natural elements like pinecones, branches, or seasonal flowers. Add candles or fairy lights for an inviting glow.

Family Tradition Display

Dedicate a shelf or wall space to display items that represent your family traditions, such as special holiday books, handmade crafts, or heirloom decorations.

Customised Wreath

Make a wreath that reflects your style by incorporating unconventional materials—think feathers, or even fabric scraps. Add a personal touch with family initials or favourite colours.

Personalised Stockings

Sew or decorate stockings with family members’ names and favorite colors or patterns. Hang them in a creative way, such as on a ladder or along a garland.

Seasonal Art Display

Swap out regular artwork for festive pieces, like hand-painted canvases or framed holiday quotes. Get the whole family involved by creating a collaborative art piece.

Memory Jar

Place a decorative jar in a prominent spot and encourage family members to write down their favorite holiday memories or things they’re grateful for during the season. Read them together on Christmas Eve.

These ideas will help you create a cosy, personal atmosphere that celebrates the spirit of the season and makes your home feel truly special.

Martha's journey in food began in 2011 when she joined the Advanced Diploma in Artisan Baking at the School of Artisan Food.

Whilst she had always had a passion for cooking, Martha fell in love, and became slightly obsessed, with sourdough baking and all things patisserie during the time she spent on the course. Inspired by her placements at E5 Bakehouse in London, Mark's Bread in Bristol, and Pump Street Baking in Orford, she set up Forge Bakehouse in Sheffield shortly after leaving the course. Over the next decade, she developed and expanded Forge from a microbakery with a team of three to a multi-service bakery and cafe, with monthly evening events, baking classes and a pop-up shop with 30 staff.

Martha sold the business in 2022 and came full circle back to the School in a teaching capacity.

How did you come to study for the Advanced Diploma in Artisan Baking at The School of Artisan Food? I had to leave school before I’d finished my A-levels because I had chronic fatigue. I had planned to go to university, but I wasn't well enough.

Later, I started to think about working in food. I liked baking, so I thought, “Maybe I’ll make cookies for a living because I could do that from home.” I shared this idea with a friend, and they pointed out that there was no one selling artisan bread in Sheffield. At that point, I didn’t even really know what artisan meant, so I went home and Googled “artisan bread” and that’s when the School’s Advanced Diploma in Baking came up.

Rising To Success

Made meets Martha Brown to explore her journey from a budding baker to a successful entrepreneur, and now to inspiring future generations of bakers as a tutor at The School of Artisan Food.

The diploma was in its first year at the time, so I started on my course almost a year later. I got a 50% funded bursary, which really helped, and I got really into baking bread very quickly.

When you applied for the Advanced Diploma, did you already know what you would do with it, career-wise?

Yes, but it was more like a daydream—all quite pie in the sky. I definitely had a dream to open a little bakery on Sharrow Vale Road in Sheffield, and when I came to School and mentioned that, they said, “Oh! Three of last year's students are opening on that road!” That turned out to be Seven Hills Bakery, which opened exactly a year before I opened on the less-developed Abbeydale Road in Sheffield’s Antiques Quarter.

Can you describe your experience during the course?

Studying on the Welbeck estate, which is so food-focused, is so different from everyday life. I think it's quite a unique place to study, and at the time, I did it with people who were studying butchery, charcuterie, and dairy, so it was a proper deep dive into not just baking but artisan food in general.

It was time and space to learn a lot about all types of different food, all focused on fermentation. I enjoyed having the time to focus on each ingredient and to play and invent products. I enjoyed the food culture and food science, as well as the business side.

The course is well-rounded and uniquely geared towards actually setting up an artisan business rather than just learning practical skills. There is time on the diploma to learn those skills and theory in a way that’s very hard to pick up when you're working in a bakery. If you learn on shift, you learn production and speed and how to do that well, but you don't have the same time to focus on problem-solving as you do on the diploma.

At what point on the diploma did you start thinking, “I'm going to set up a business when I'm done here”?

In January, I was on placement in London with another student, Ben. We started out quite jokingly, saying we should do something after the course. For months, we chatted about working out of my house and catering afternoon tea parties.

When it came time to do our business plans for the course, we decided to work together. What started as a totally made-up business, purely imagined for the purposes of the assignment, turned into, “Maybe we can do this for real!”

We started looking at shop rent and found a cheap shop in a good area. That was the beginning of our bakery. After the first year, we went our separate ways, and I continued on my own for another nine years.

Why did you choose to specialise in sourdough?

Whilst a lot of our bread was sourdough, we also made longfermented ciabattas, baguettes and brioche. Everything was fermented slowly in the fridge overnight, which is practical and adds flavour, texture, and digestive benefits.

What challenges did you face when starting your baking business?

Being new to production and new to running a business was a challenge because I went straight into it from studying. The three placements I did in very different bakeries taught me a lot about what I wanted to do and what I wanted not to do, but it’s still a short time to get your production speed up and understand how demand changes seasonally.

There was a lot to learn about employing people, training staff, and so on. As things grew over the years, I constantly had to effectively retrofit policies, training, and structure because we grew organically, and I hadn’t expected things to get that big.

What was the most rewarding aspect of running your own bakery?

There is just so much joy to be found in creating beautiful food; opening an oven door and seeing something that you spent three days on turning out perfectly.

Being a retail bakery meant we were in a permanent state of feedback, conversations, questions, and people being so invested in you and the business. Some customers would come to every event, pop-up, or market we did. It was a sense of community that I loved and hadn't expected.

There was also satisfaction in just standing back and thinking, “The team has got this.” We got to a point where I could take

time off, and everyone was fine; it all happened without me. That was pretty amazing.

What advice would you give to somebody looking to start their own baking business?

I think it's harder now than it was then; things are more expensive, and there is a lot more competition, so get the theory, knowledge and experience behind you first, even if it’s just working part-time in a bakery.

I also think that for any business, knowing where you're going informs every decision you make along the way, so having a plan means you’re less likely to make conflicting decisions. Once we were up and running, I was very focused on whatever the project or the expansion was, and that helped me make good decisions overall, even if I didn’t have a final exit strategy.

What was the key moment that inspired the decision to move on from your own business to become a tutor?

After ten years of running the bakery, I was ready for a new challenge. I’d had the business valued and had spoken to a couple of potential buyers when I heard that someone I knew from years ago was looking at buying a café in Sheffield, and that’s ultimately how the sale came about.

I’d gone back to The School of Artisan Food every year since completing the diploma to speak to the new students, and I’d always hoped to continue the relationship. Plus, I'd taught baking classes for eight years at my bakery, so I spoke to the Studies team about my newfound availability. That’s how I ended up teaching patisserie on the FdSc Artisan Food Production, and later on, the BSc (Hons), Advanced Diploma, and short courses, too.

Can you share a memorable moment from your journey so far?

I really enjoy teaching people how to do something that I enjoy, passing on knowledge that I love, and watching them go from not having faith in themselves to producing something they’re really happy with—or at least knowing exactly what's gone wrong for next time.

Where do you see yourself heading in the next few years?

I love teaching at the School and hope to do so long term. I’m also studying Interior Architecture at University, so my work at the School is how I maintain my connection to food and teaching.

Find out more about the variety of courses available and perhaps start your own artisan food journey by visiting: www.schoolofartisanfood.org

Image opposite: Patisserie with Martha Brown. Above, Martha's lime meringue pie, frangipane tart and brioche loaf. All imagery: Emily Leary, The School Of Artisan Food.

Festive Bites

Quick & easy festive ideas, treats & recipes. By food demonstrator & home economist, Teresa Bovey.

Festive Macaroni Cheese

An easy family recipe to make over the festive holiday period using Christmas leftovers.

Ingredients

225g dried Macaroni

1 small leek, sliced

30g butter

30g plain flour

¼ tsp mustard powder

450mls milk

Salt and pepper

120g strong cheddar cheese, grated

Salt and pepper

300g cooked left over turkey or ham, or a bit of both

8 cherry or pomodoro tomatoes, halved

20g grated Cheddar or Parmesan cheese

To serve Green salad

Method

1. Cook pasta and sliced leek together in a large pan of boiling water for 7-8 minutes.

2. Make the sauce - melt the butter in a sauce pan, stir in the flour and mustard powder and cook for 1 minute, then gradually whisk in the milk and once thickened and bubbling add the cheese. Season to taste.

3. Drain the pasta and leeks and add to the cheese sauce. Season well.

4. Add the left over turkey and ham and mix well. Spoon into an oven proof serving dish, and scatter over the tomatoes sprinkle with grated cheese and grill until the top is browned.

NB. Alternatively allow the macaroni and cheese mix to cool slightly then add the left over meats and tomatoes, refrigerate and reheat in a hot oven Fan 180ºC/Gas 5 for 25-30 minutes until piping hot. Serve with a green salad.

Serves 4

Basmati & Quinoa, Apple, Pomegranate & Walnut Salad

Ingredients

1 x 250g packet of cooked rice

1 red apple, diced

2 salad onions sliced

80g pomegranate or 80g dried cranberries

50g chopped walnuts

Salt and pepper

1 finely chopped celery stick

Dressing

Whisk together:

1 tbsp cranberry sauce or 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses

2 tbsp extra virgin oil

1 tbsp Basalmic vinegar

Method

1. Cook rice as directed on the packet.

2. Place into a bowl with all the remaining ingredients.

3. Season, mix well and serve.

Serves 3-4

Quick Boxing Day Salads

When time is short and you want a couple of salads to serve with cold ham or turkey try one of the following quick salad ideas.

Salmon, Beetroot & Orange Salad

Ingredients

1 x 160g pkt bistro beetroot or Italian salad leaves

2 cooked salmon fillets

2 oranges

2 cooked beetroots, sliced or diced

For orange dressing

Juice from ½ orange

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 tbsp Balsamic vinegar

Salt and pepper

Method

1. Arrange the salad leaves on a serving plate.

2. Pare the oranges and cut into segments.

3. Squeeze a quarter of the orange segments to make some juice and add to the oil and vinegar to make a dressing.

4. Scatter the remaining orange segments over the salad leaves with the beetroot.

5. Break up the cooked salmon into small pieces and add to the salad, 6. Drizzle over the dressing before serving

Serves 3-4

Alternative – Try using any blue cheese as an alternative to salmon in this recipe. It can be made into a starter recipe by putting chopped beetroot into the base of a cooking ring and then topping with either flaked fish or cheese and finishing with salad leaves and sliced orange segments on top.

Easy Christmas Sweet Treats & Ideas

To keep young children occupied in the run up to Christmas try some of these treat ideas.

Festive Biscuits

Change simple ginger or plain shortbread or oat biscuits into a Christmas treat by dipping or painting half the biscuit with melted white or milk chocolate and sprinkling with gold and silver balls or Christmas sprinkles.

Chocolate Rice Crispie Puddings

You will need 50g milk chocolate, 50g dark chocolate, 50g rice crispies, 30g icing sugar and some Christmas Sprinkles. Melt the chocolate in the microwave for 1 minute and stir in the rice crispies until well coated. Place tablespoonfuls onto small squares of cling film and twist up to form a ball. Chill for 30 minutes in the fridge. Mix icing sugar with ½ tsp cold water, remove cling film and drizzle a little over each pudding and decorate with Christmas sprinkles.

Makes 12

Stuffed Dates

Stuff dates with marzipan, top with half a walnut or sprinkle with chopped nuts or melt over a little chocolate over the top.

Chocolate Salami

To make a chocolate salami:

200g chopped chocolate, either white, milk or plain, cool slightly and then stir in 40g dried mixed fruit, such as sultanas, raisins and cran-berries, 50g chopped apricots, 40g mixed chopped unsalted nuts, pistachios and flaked almonds look best, 5 crushed biscuits - ginger, shortbread or digestive – any you have in your store cupboard. Place the chocolate mixture onto a rectangular piece of greaseproof paper roll and into a thin salami shape twisting the paper at the ends. Refrigerate for 2 hours. Serve sliced.

Serves 8

Festive Table ideas...

Create your own Christmas place settings using pine or ivy leaves, red ribbon and cardboard.

Place twigs and winter foliage into a glass vase, add a few baubles and pine cones for a simple festive arrangement.

Mulled Fruit Jellies

Ingredients

1 packet raspberry jelly

500mls boiling water

1 mulled fruit spice sachet

2 tbsp Chambord or Port 150g raspberries

Method

1. Dissolve the the jelly cubes in the water and add the spice sachet for 10 minutes for the flavours to infuse. Add 2 tbsp Chambord or Port into the mixture.

2. Pour into 4-5 serving glasses. Drop a few fresh raspberries and sliced fresh figs into each glass. Reserve 4 slices for the top. Leave to set in the fridge.

3. Once set and before serving, put a spoonful of vanilla yoghurt on top and decorate with the reserved figs. Serves 4-5

2 fresh figs, sliced (reserve 4 slices) Small carton white chocolate vanilla yoghurt or whipped double cream Find more of Teresa's wonderful recipes in the Autumn/Winter cook book available online on www.madeinn.co.uk/shop

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Mr & Mrs Fine Wine

For us, the food and drink element is the most exciting part about Christmas and there’s no better time to start planning the menu! Whether you’re thinking about a large festive gathering or a smaller scale celebration, there are lots of factors to consider when it comes to finding the right selection of wines and spirits. Here’s our guide to offer you some fine and flavourful ideas to keep everyone’s palates satisfied this festive season!

For a Flying Start…

We recommend the best sparkling wine as an aperitif and of course that can mean Champagne, as fabulous as it is, however, we’re constantly impressed by the growing range of English Sparkling Wines. Made with handpicked grapes from their own vineyard in East Sussex, Everflyht Brut NV, £29.99, is produced using minimal intervention methods and a careful balance of stainless steel and oak to bring out the very best complexity of flavour. With Chardonnay taking centre stage, the wine is aged for a minimum of 20 months ‘on the lees’, creating a beautiful golden colour with a fine fizz. On the nose, the wine produces generous aromas of baked apples with hints of red berries and a palate that’s reminiscent of a buttery, baked lemon tart! Everflyht is a stunning Sparkling Wine that can be outstanding on its own, or with canapes or any other pastry-based appetiser that takes your fancy!

Give Grüner a Go!

We’re huge advocates of introducing customers to lesser known grape varieties from around the wine making world and Grüner Veltliner is one such grape! Dating far back before our times, in Roman Times and native to Austria, Grüner has fantastic food pairing potential, particularly with richer, hearty winter dishes from smoked salmon to chicken and sashimi! Laurenz V Singing Grüner Veltliner, Kamptal, Austria, £14.99, is lively on the nose with floral accents. Created as a fun way to open up the palate to let the flavours sing, the wine leaves you with a beautifully refreshing finish. This Christmas it could be lovely to enjoy a dish of rich smoked salmon or even a decadent seafood platter with this one – a superb combination!

Bigger can be Better

Now’s the time to look towards more bold, powerful reds, for enjoying on their own, or with food. Aged for an impressive 30 months in oak, Ilatium Leon Amarone, Italy, £50, delivers a generous amount of ripe fruit flavour with dark fruit and sour cherry. On the palate, the wine is rich and dense – perfectly suited for the festive season! When it comes to sensational food pairings for this decadent Amarone, we’d go for seared duck breasts or even a warming venison stew. Perfect as an alternative to turkey!

When it comes to selecting the red wines to enjoy alongside festive dishes it’s important to think about the kinds of flavours that are served with the meats, rather than simply pairing a wine with a specific meat. For peppery and olive based sauces and marinades, a classic Northern Rhone Syrah can work very well. From producer Gerard Courbis is Saint-Joseph Tradition, Rhone, France, £29.99. This super wine delivers bold black fruit and spice with supple tannins and a lingering finish. Also a fine wine to age, why not double up with one to enjoy this Christmas and lay one down for a couple of years to compare and contrast? Double the wine tasting fun!

Something Sweet?

There’s no finer way to finish a festive gathering than with a sip or two of something decadent and sweet. For a fine pairing with chocolate fondant, Christmas pudding or bold flavoured cheeses such as Roquefort, how about a glass of a very rare French sweet wine that’s made with handharvested grapes that are fermented in the most unusual way – on a bed of straw! To make Badoz Vin de Paille, Côtes du Jura, 2018, £41.99, Savagnin, Chardonnay and Poulsard grapes lie on shelves above a layer of straw, slowly fermenting for four months. The ‘juice’ is then aged in oak barrels for three years. Fragrant on the nose, this sweet wine produces flavours of gingerbread, caramel and honey – definitely a winter warmer!

2024 Winter Wine Fair!

Saracen’s Head Hotel, Market Place, Southwell. NG25 OHE 22 Nov, 5-8.30pm. Tickets £25 each. For details email: info@mrandmrsfinewine.co.uk Call: 01636 918182

www.mrandmrsfinewine.co.uk

Thoresby Vale Country Park & Edwinstowe

Explore the natural beauty and charm of this countryside ramble around Thoresby Vale Country Park and Edwinstowe.

By travel writer and photojournalist Sally Outram.

This super walk around Thoresby Vale Country Park and Edwinstowe, offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, local history, and festive charm. Starting at Thoresby Vale, the former site of Thoresby Colliery, you are greeted by an expansive landscape that once held one of the last deep coal mines in Nottinghamshire.

Thoresby Colliery was operational from 1925 until its closure in 2015. Once the lifeblood of the area, it now provides a poignant contrast having been transformed into a scenic park where nature has reclaimed the land, with wildflowers, woodland, and winding footpaths ideal for a winter stroll.

Regeneration of the area marks a new chapter in the sites history, shifting from industry to recreation, symbolic of renewal and remembrance of the regions past.

The colliery once supported a thriving mining community, and while the sounds of coal trucks are gone, echoes of this history remain in the landscape. The trail leads you to magnificent rolling views over forest canopies, and the stately mansion Thoresby Hall, with its grand architecture, can be seen towering the trees on the horizon.

The park is also a home to a diverse array of wildlife, making it a haven for nature lovers. Since the reclamation of the land, the area has been carefully nurtured to encourage a rich ecological environment. The mix of woodland, grassland and wetlands attracts

a variety of species, and if you are lucky, you may spot kestrels, and barn owls hunting over the open fields.

For those of you who enjoy a spot of outdoor dining, there is a fabulous picnic area, offering a welcoming place to recharge and enjoy the views. There are a number of tables which are scattered across a grassy clearing, conveniently located near all of the walking trails.

Moving onward, you find yourself in the charming village of Edwinstowe. It has a cheerful atmosphere during the festive season, with local shops and cafés offering seasonal treats and a warm respite on a cold winter’s day.

Look out for St. Mary’s Church, a 12th century landmark situated in the heart of the village, where legend has it, Robin Hood and Maid Marian were married.

A short detour from Edwinstowe, is Sherwood Forest, where ancient oak trees stand in quiet grandeur. Sherwood was once a royal hunting forest and is deeply tied to the Robin Hood legend, adding a mythical touch to your journey.

From the historical echoes of Thoresby Colliery to the enchanting lore of Edwinstowe, this super winter walk intertwines history and festivity, offering an exhilarating experience that lingers long after you have hung up your coat, and taken off your boots.

Hope you enjoy!

Directions The basics

1. Start from the roadside at postcode NG21 9PS. Access this via the housing development and follow the attractive tree-lined road until you see the signpost for ‘Thoresby Park’ on the left. You will notice a wooden fence and the entrance to the park.

2. Pass the carved wooden bench on your left, continue along the track, bearing left until you reach the metal gateway commemorating Thoresby Colliery.

3. Follow the track around until you reach a T-junction. Directly in front of you is a large pond. Here, you have a choice. I chose to take the path to the right, ascending the steps. At the top, take a moment to look back and enjoy the far-reaching views over Edwinstowe and Sherwood Forest.

4. Continue along the path until you come to an intersection of paths. To the right, there is a lovely picnic area with tables, perfect for enjoying

the panoramic views over this historic part of the county.

5. From here, there are several routes you can take. Some paths were still under construction during my visit. I chose to continue to the top of the hill, where the views are spectacular over the treetops of the ancient Sherwood Forest. You can even see the majestic Thoresby Hall in the distance.

6. At the top, you will find a telescopic viewpoint and a half pit wheel marking the highest point of the hill.

7. The tracks from here lead you on the descent route. Again, the choice is yours. I took the track skirting the forest views, following it down to the intersection of paths opposite the picnic area, then retraced my steps back to the main park entrance.

Edwinstowe Village is just a twominute drive away, with plenty of parking available.

Distance: 4.20 km – 2.6 miles (approximate as trail can be tailored to your choice).

Severity: Moderate, some steep inclines and descent.

Gradient: Slight incline and descent, mostly flat.

Approx time: 1 to 2 hours, allowing for stops. Add extra for exploring Edwinstowe.

Stiles/Gates: None.

Maps: OS 270 Sherwood Forest, Mansfield, Worksop & Edwinstowe.

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

Start Point: NG21 9PS – Thoresby Vale Park (sat nav for Thoresby Colliery)

Parking: Road side – NG21 9PS

Dog friendly: Yes, preferably on the lead, there are plenty of waste bins along the route. Be mindful of wildlife and ground nesting birds.

Refreshments: There is a lovely picnic area in the park, with tables provided. Edwinstowe offers a fantastic selection of places to eat and drink, whether you are looking for a hearty meal or a quick bite.

Lonely This Christmas?

Amidst the joy: navigating loneliness during the festive season.

By Chris Collins, Life Coach.

As Christmas approaches, it’s often regarded as the most joyful time of the year, filled with family gatherings, celebrations and social connections.

However, for many, this time can also magnify feelings of loneliness and isolation. The festive season, which always seems synonymous with connection, can serve as a harsh reminder of what some are missing. Especially if circumstances have recently changed and this is the first Christmas where these feelings are new and raw.

Loneliness at Christmas isn’t just emotional discomfort, it also carries significant mental and physical health risks as it triggers real, tangible changes in the brain. If prolonged it can activate the brains stress response, elevating Cortisol levels and reducing the effectiveness of the immune system. Research has shown that loneliness affects the same neural networks that process physical pain, making it deeply uncomfortable and sometimes debilitating.

But, just as the brain can be wired for loneliness, it can also be rewired for connection and positivity, by using aspects of positive psychology.

At the heart of positive psychology is the idea that we can all cultivate a sense of well being through a number of intentional practices that are not dependent on external circumstances, like having a big family or a bursting social calendar, but instead focus on building personal resilience and emotional health.

For those of you that feel like you could use it, here are a few things to try:

Acts of Kindness – Neuroscience suggests that performing small acts of kindness, whether volunteering at a charity or just offering a kind word to someone, stimulates the brains reward system. This releases oxytocin and serotonin, chemicals that promote feelings of joy and connection. By helping others you can feel more connected and gain a sense of purpose.

Mindfulness – By staying present and focused on the moment, not dwelling on the pat or future, mindfulness reduces those feelings of longing for what we don’t have and helps us appreciate the small moments of peace and beauty that may otherwise go unnoticed. It also enhances our own self compassion, reducing the negative self talk that often comes with loneliness.

Gratitude – It’s been shown that fostering gratitude can increase feelings of social connectedness and happiness. By reflecting on the positive aspects of your life and writing them down, whether it’s the beauty of the nature around us, your own personal strengths or even the small acts of kindness you have started to engage in, we can shift our focus away from what we lack.

Being aware of and practicing just these few things on a consistent basis, can help the brain to rewire itself to focus more on positive experiences rather than on loneliness and transform the holiday season into a time of personal growth and inner peace.

Mandy2 & Mandy1 – Thanks for the inspiration! (you know who you are!)

If you want to explore more ways in which you can improve your resilience and mindset, just drop me a message and we can arrange to talk.

Chris Collins - ICF ACC.

For further details call: 07973 179982

Email: chris_collins22@hotmail.com

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

Life Coaching Updates

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

Embracing Electrification

One of the mainstay models in the Audi UK range is today embracing full electrification for the first time, as the familiar upper mid-size A6 and S6 make way for the all-new A6 e-tron and S6 e-tron in line with the brand’s ambitious e-mobility strategy.

Now available to order in Sportback and Avant body styles, the new arrivals share their stateof-the-art Premium Platform Electric (PPE) foundations with the recently launched Q6 e-tron, and are products of the same single-minded pursuit of exceptional performance, range, efficiency, and charging capability.

Like many familiar series production Audi models, the new A6 e-tron Sportback and Avant closely resemble the innovatively styled show cars that preceded them, in this case the A6 e-tron concepts, which debuted at the Auto Shanghai show in 2021.

Their low, arcing rooflines and clean-cut contours are complemented by a distinctive frontal black mask integrating slimline headlamps, trademark quattro blisters and a continuous, three-dimensional rear light strip, helping to create a form that is dynamic, futuristic and outstandingly aerodynamic.

The most aerodynamic Audi in history

The exhaustive streamlining work carried out on the new A6 e-tron models by Audi aerodynamicists is reflected in the A6 e-tron Sportback’s achievement of an exceptionally low drag coefficient of 0.21, distinguishing it not only as the most aerodynamic series production Audi of all time, but also the most aerodynamic vehicle in the entire VW Group. The Avant’s value of 0.24 also stands as one of the best in the segment.

To capitalise on that aerodynamic efficiency, the new A6 and S6 e-tron Sportback and Avant models combine powerful, compact electric motors with a 100 kWh (94.9 kWh net) lithium-ion battery newly developed for the PPE. The first launch phase in the UK will comprise the A6 Sportback e-tron performance and A6 Avant e-tron performance, delivering 380PS (with launch control) from a single rear-mounted motor driving the rear wheels. The S6 Sportback e-tron and S6 Avant e-tron feature a motor on each axle channelling a total of 550PS (with launch control) to quattro all-wheel-drive. Additional variants will follow later in the cycle.

Maximum comfort guaranteed

Travellers in the new A6 e-tron and S6 e-tron models enjoy the rapid but unruffled progress in exceptional surroundings.

The interior cocoons occupants in great comfort thanks to its enveloping ‘soft wrap’, which extends from door to door across the entire panel width.

The digital hub for all models is the Audi Multi Media Interface (MMI) panoramic display, its curved design incorporating the 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit and the 14.5-inch MMI touch screen. MMI navigation plus, Audi connect internetbased services, the Audi smartphone interface and wireless smartphone charging are naturally standard features across the range. The new AI-supported, self-learning Audi Assistant is also on hand to enable vocal control of numerous vehicle functions, and the latest Audi app store integrated directly into the MMI offers access to a rapidly growing selection of popular third-party apps.

Sport, S line and Edition 1 specifications

Customers of the A6 e-tron performance models can choose from three specifications - Sport, S line and Edition 1 - while the S6 e-tron is available exclusively with a specially tailored version of the Edition 1 package that includes even more enhancements to aesthetics, technology and comfort.

Externally, the arches in Sport models are amply filled by 20-inch alloy wheels, and high-performance LEDs maximise visibility in the distinctive rear LED light strip and the headlamps. These can be temporarily or permanently upgraded post-delivery to Matrix LED specification ‘over the air’ as part of the Audi Functions on Demand programme. Powered tailgate operation is standard to facilitate loading, and noise-suppressing acoustic glazing for the windscreen and front side windows is also included to bring the refinement benefits of near-silent electric power delivery into even sharper relief. At the rear, the four rings are illuminated for the first time, further enhancing the newcomers’ air of technological sophistication.

Inside, the dashboard’s carefully selected blend of soft-touch and high-gloss materials is complemented by sustainable leather-effect Twin Leather upholstery for the heated comfort seats and the Softwrap, contrasting perfectly with the matt brushed aluminium inlays.

In the S line models that are next in line, trademark features include S line body styling, privacy glass, S-embossed sport seats, a black headlining and a three-spoke steering wheel flattened at the top and bottom.

Always ready to assist

Progressing to Edition 1 level brings an upgrade from the S line model’s 20-inch wheel to a 21-inch multi-spoke design, which frames red brake callipers. A black styling package including black frontal Audi rings also accentuates the purposeful stance, and Matrix LED headlamps incorporate an upgrade to digital LED daytime running lights which offer a range of active light signatures selectable by the driver.

The technology tally is also expanded inside Edition 1 models by a 10.9-inch MMI front passenger touch display enabling front seat occupants to stream content and access other functions independently of the driver, and by several additional safety and driver assistance features, including Adaptive Cruise Assist Plus and a Lane-change Assistant. The accommodation is further enhanced visually and ergonomically as well by ventilated Super Sport seats, heating for the front and outer rear seats and the steering wheel, Dinamica microfibre for the upholstery and Softwrap, and high-tech mesh and Vanadium for the inlays and trim.

The bespoke version of the Edition 1 specification for S6 e-tron quattro models takes yet another step up in terms of design, comfort and luxury. S-specific exterior detailing maximises visual impact, and at the rear lighting is upgraded to second-generation digital OLED technology, meaning the strip’s configuration can also be personalised by way of various selectable active digital light signatures. It also features a new communication light designed to warn surrounding road users about hazards using special warning symbols.

An innovative panoramic glass roof featuring smart glass that becomes opaque at the touch of a button is also among the features that are specific to the S Edition 1 package. Another

infotainment-related highlight is the new Augmented Reality Head-Up Display, which projects information such as speed, signage, assistance systems status and navigation data via a tilted image plane so that it appears to be floating up to 200 metres ahead of the driver.

Two attractive option packs

A carefully chosen selection of features can also be added by prospective A6 e-tron customers by way of the optional Sound & Vision Pack. On Sport specification, the pack costs £2,895 and its key components include the configurable Augmented Reality Head-up Display, ambient lighting package plus, Microsoft Office integration and the Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system. Added to S line and Edition 1 specifications, the Sound & Vision Pack adds the above equipment as well as headrest speakers, and costs £3,195.

To take technological sophistication even further, the Sound & Vision Pack Pro for A6 e-tron Edition 1 models (£5,495) brings a panoramic glass sunroof with switchable transparency, and second-generation virtual exterior mirrors. These can now fold electrically and have a flowoptimised shape which reduces the frontal area of the vehicle and improves the drag coefficient. The interior displays to which their compact cameras send super sharp images of the A6 e-tron’s surroundings are located inside the doors.

Please visit www.audi.co.uk for A6 e-tron and S6 e-tron pricing, technical data, plus a comprehensive overview of standard equipment trim by trim.

The two new Macan models are available to order now and will be delivered to customers in the second half of the year.

For further details visit: www.audi.co.uk

The A6 Avant e-tron, A6 Sportback e-tron 2024. All imagery and editorial thanks to Audi. For further details visit www.audi.co.uk

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