Dales Life Summer 2015

FREE Summer 2015

ANTIQUES

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FOOD

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INTERIORS |

Celebrate Summer

RECIPES FOR LAZY SUMMER DAYS CREATE A WILDLIFE GARDEN ESCAPE TO THE COAST

WILDLIFE

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Wild Angle STUNNING WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY

INTO THE BLUE COLOURFUL BLOOMS FOR YOUR BORDERS

GARDENING

Life Style ELEGANT WAYS TO REVIVE INTERIORS

Master Chef

EXCLUSIVE RECIPES FROM PETER SIDWELL

Suppliers of beautiful kitchens and bathrooms

Visit our web site: yorkshire-kitchens.co.uk

Featured kitchen by

CO U N T Y KIT C HE NS (Leyburn) Ltd

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Showroom: Belle Vue Offices, Market Place, Leyburn, North Yorkshire, DL8 5AW Open: Monday to Friday 9am-5.30pm and Saturday 10am-1pm Please ask for our complimentary brochure, Telephone: 01969 624274 | Dales Life | SUMMER 2015

FROM THE EDITOR

WELCOME Summer has well and truly arrived – and that means a trip to the coast! s a child I spent many happy summer days peering into the rock pools at Sandsend and Runswick Bay, fascinated by their strange inhabitants.

Enjoying seaside wildlife is a bit harder nowadays – my dog Ruby loves to jump into the pools and disturb everything! But providing you take a less excitable companion, Yorkshire still has some of the finest coastline in the country for nature lovers.

On p.44 Chris Baines explores its wealth of wild treasures, including one of my favourite British birds, the cheerful, perky puffin.

Of course now that sunny days are here, there’s no excuse for neglecting the garden. If you want to attract legions of bees and butterflies, turn to p.35 to find a selection of beautiful blue blooms that will do just that. And if you’re really serious about giving nature a helping hand, why not take your wildlife gardening to the next level? Elena Greenway explains some clever ways to help hedgehogs, bats and birds on p.28.

Summer dining needs to be light, bright and fresh, and starting on p.62 we’ve got some gorgeous recipes for you, including a zingy pea soup and a luscious raspberry pavlova – plus another set of tasty dishes created especially for Dales Life by TV chef Peter Sidwell.

Finally I’d like to mention our new series My Yorkshire in which we discover a little more about Yorkshire’s movers and shakers, starting with one of the region’s most familiar faces, Rodney Tennant of Tennants Auctioneers in Leyburn.

I hope you enjoy our summer issue – do let us know what you think. Meanwhile we’ll be hard at work on our autumn issue. See you soon!

Sue Gillman Editor GUARANTEED DELIVERY Take out a subscription and never miss another issue!

Visit www.daleslife.com

NOT HAD DALES LIFE THROUGH YOUR LETTERBOX? See page 124 to find out where you can pick up a copy for free.

MORE THAN JUST A MAGAZINE Read our latest issue — and enjoy exclusive extras — online at www.daleslife.com.

SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life |

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The home of the world’s finest fireplaces BEAUTIFULLY STYLISH WOOD BURNING AND MULTI-FUEL STOVES, GAS & ELECTRIC FIRES, FIREPLACE SURROUNDS & ACCESSORIES ALL OVER 5 ROOMS AT OUR SPECIALIST SHOWROOM IN NORTHALLERTON

235 HIGH STREET, NORTHALLERTON, DL7 8LU WWW.YORKSHIREFIREPLACES.CO.UK 01609 779866 FULL INSTALLATION SERVICE AVAILABLE

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Contents Summer 2015

62

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9 25 9

IFE STYLE L Inspiring ideas for your home and garden.

19 I NSIDE STORY Stylish ideas to create a beautiful home.

COVER IMAGE Š Drew Buckley

22 W ILD ANGLE Photographers celebrate the beauty of the natural world.

25 G ARDEN NOTES Garden news, products and advice, by Adam Appleyard.

Dales Life 8A Tower Street York, YO1 9SA www.daleslife.com

28 SECOND NATURE If you really want to help local wildlife you need to be more creative, says Elena Greenway.

35 S UMMERTIME BLUES If you want a garden full of bees and butterflies, add some blue to your borders, by Adam Appleyard.

44 SHORE THINGS Yorkshire boasts some of the best coastline in the country, says Professor Chris Baines.

51 F OOD FILE Food news, events, and the best of local produce, by Amanda Cook.

56 THE DISCERNING DINER Claudia Blake visits Fairhursts Bistro, Middleham.

62 A TASTE OF SUMMER Fresh and vibrant recipes for lazy summer days.

SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life |

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Contents Summer 2015

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70 85 Editor Deputy Editor Production Advertising

Art Editor Proofreader Proprietor

Sue Gillman Brian Pike Claudia Blake Sue Gillman Liz Hanson Stef Suchomski Alison Farrell Sue Gillman

Contributors Prof. Chris Baines, Drew Buckley, Steve Race, Brian Pike, Ian Henry, RHS Images, Peter Sidwell, Elena Greenway, Amanda Cook, Adam Appleyard, Whitfield Benson, Liz Hanson, The National Trust. t. 01904 629295 / 235156 m. 07970 739 119 e. sue@daleslife.com www.daleslife.com Dales Life 8A Tower Street York YO1 9SA. 6

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70 A TOUCH OF SPICE Give your cooking a lift with the heady taste of natural vanilla.

76 SUNSHINE SPECIALS Three easy summertime recipes from TV chef Peter Sidwell.

104 93 R URAL BUSINESS We talk to Christina Brion, founder of Gorgeous Cottages.

97 P RIZE LOT This month’s auction room highlights.

104 DALES DIARY 82 SEASON’S BEST A guide to local events, Courgettes have a light compiled by Liz Hanson. delicate flavour that makes 127 TO DINE FOR them ideal for summer dining.

Great places to eat in 85 BEAUTY FILE the Yorkshire Dales.

Our pick of the latest products 130 MY YORKSHIRE and treatments this summer.

In the first of a new series we 89 A DAY IN THE LIFE talk to Rodney Tennant.

Behind the scenes at Incy Wincy’s Nursery, Bedale.

SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life |

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The Fettling Fairies Amazing furniture refinished with a touch of magic We Fettling Fairies use our magic to breathe new life into interesting vintage and antique furniture. We produce quality pieces with a first-class finish, destined to be loved heirlooms. Our ever-changing range is available to buy online and you can view at our workshops by appointment.

We can wave our magic wands over your own cherished furniture, or source items for that special treatment. www.thefettlingfairies.co.uk Moulton, Richmond | 01748 478748 enquiries@thefettlingfairies.co.uk

Specialists in: • Wood Flooring • Carpets • Luxury Vinyl Tiles • Vinyl and much more Image courtesy of Kersaint Cobb

t m e w 8

01748 822834 07789 996526 nhflooring@btinternet.com www.nhflooring.co.uk

| Dales Life | SUMMER 2015

Unit 6 Borough Court, Borough Rd, Gallowfields Trading Estate, Richmond, DL10 4SX Telephone Nick Hodges to make an appointment

lifestyle INSPIRING

IDEAS FOR YOUR HOME

Decorative hare cushion, designed

by Helen Gordon, available at in-spaces.com

Seafood-inspired plate

by Emma Bridgewater. at Dovetail Interiors, Bedale, 01677 426464

Give your home a dash of country charm with this Voyage ‘Henny Penny’ linen fabric from Bear Cottage Interiors, Hawes, 01969 666077

This gorgeous swallow door knob from oakroomshop.co.uk will add a touch of vintage chic to your furniture

Elegant distressed wine rack which holds 60 bottles in style at sweetpeaandwillow.com

Remarkably realistic electric stove by Chesney, available in a selection of beautiful colours from Yorkshire Fireplaces, Northallerton, 01609 779866 SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life |

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Quaint & Quirky is a gorgeous gift and interiors shop based in Leyburn in the heart of the Dales.

Selling an inspiring and interesting range of gifts, home accessories and gardenware with an emphasis on being quirky and a little bit different.

New collections are now in stock and exciting new products are constantly arriving.

15 MARKET PLACE, LEYBURN DL8 5BG

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T 01969 368150

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W QUAINTANDQUIRKY.NET

DOVETAIL INTERIORS FURNITURE HOME ACCESSORIES GIFTS

Interest free credit now available 17 Market Place, Bedale, DL8 1ED 01677 426464 www.dovetailinteriors.com

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lifestyle INSPIRING

IDEAS FOR YOUR HOME Delightful glass tea light holder decorated with a rope heart. Available in two sizes from tch.net

Hand-decorated bone china jug by ceramic artist Julia Davey from coastalhome.co.uk

Nau cushio tical comp ass d n in from soft green esign coast alhom and white e.co.u k

Gisela Graham’s ‘Shoreline’ collection perfectly captures the charm of the coast. See it at Quaint & Quirky, Leyburn, 01969 368150

Dramatic coralthemed lamp with an elegant pink shade, available at Love Thy Interiors, Thirsk, 01845 527123

Shimmering, seashell soaps in an abalone shell soap dish.

From annabeljames.co.uk

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Love Thy Interiors Exciting new showrooms now open

Our new store in Thirsk is the perfect place to find something really special for your home. We have a unique collection of homeware, soft furnishings, furniture, lighting and collectable pieces you won’t find anywhere else.

Open 7 days a week plus bank holidays.

www.lovethyinteriors.co.uk

11 Kirkgate Thirsk YO71PQ

01845 527123

Let’s Colour Redecorating is exciting, but can be a challenge, so we have made it easier then ever to find your perfect colour.

We stock the Dulux Tailor Made Collection which offers over 1200 colours that can be mixed in any finish you want.

Finishes available in Flat Matt, Matt, Soft Sheen, Silk, Eggshell, Satinwood and Gloss

SANDERSON & CO

INTERIOR DECORATING SUPPLIERS High Street, Leyburn | Tel: 01969 623143 12

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lifestyle INSPIRING

IDEAS FOR YOUR HOME

Lightweight bin decorated with wild flowers, musthavebins.co.uk

Hand-made French candle made from 100% vegetable wax, yourssustainably.com

Delicious summer strawberry fabric

by Sanderson. See the range at Milners of Leyburn, 01969 622208

Lovingly restored sideboard from a range at Fettling Fairies, Richmond, 01748 478748

Hand-painted ceramic mug, Askrigg Village Kitchen, 01969 650076

Raspberry cotton pom pom picnic rug, titaniatents.com SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life |

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B e a r C o t tag e I n t e r i o r s Period & Contemporary Country Design Bespoke design service ranging from a single cushion cover to a complete home design package

Curtains & Blinds, Fabric, Furniture, Lamps, Mirrors, Gifts.

The Cattle Market, Market Place, Hawes, DL8 3RD Tel 01969 666077

www.bearcottageinteriors.co.uk

Let us bring your furniture back to life If your suite is showing signs of wear, why not consider reupholstery?

We offer a bespoke upholstery service.

We can make your suite as good as new by covering with the latest fabrics, and replacing the fillings.

Choose from a fantastic choice of fabrics. Our craftsmen will restore your furniture to the highest of standards.

BESPOKE UPHOLSTERY SPECIALISTS

Sophisticated Style

Contact Colin Blanchard for more information on 01677 470238 or 07764 279815 www.canefurniturenorthyorkshire.co.uk 14

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lifestyle INSPIRING

IDEAS FOR YOUR HOME Traditional wall clock inspired by the vintage station look.

From Love Thy Interiors, Thirsk, 01845 527123

Elegant porcelain jug from Sophie Conran’s ‘Blue’ collection, at Dovetail Interiors, Bedale, 01677 426464

Gorgeous fabrics from the new Manuel Canovas ‘Bordeaux’ collection. See the range at Milners of Leyburn, 01969 622208

Half-moon console table with distressed grey paint finish and a natural wood top from melodymaison.co.uk

Lovely h featurin and-printed cotton g rabb ap it and lad s, cabbages, ron bees ybirds annab eljame from s.co.uk

Striking photo frame from a range by Gisela Graham at Quaint & Quirky, Leyburn, 01969 368150

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FLOOR TILES & FLAGS CLEANED AND SEALED Kitchens • Conservatories • Halls

JOHN LORD

01748 811452 • 07961 460020 john@steamcleanseal.co.uk

T I M B E R

• Oak Beams • Doors • Decking • Sawn Timber • Machined Timber • Skirting • Architrave • Flooring • Cladding

TIMBER SOLUTIONS

Call us or visit our showroom for advice on how we can help you with your project.

GREEN LANE, MELMERBY RIPON HG4 5JB

01765 640564

sales@duffieldtimber.com www.duffieldtimber.com

We have a superb range of garden furniture

To book space in the Autumn issue contact Sue Gillman t:01677 470481

e: joblings@tiscali.co.uk joblings.co.uk Glebe Buildings, West Tanfield Ripon HG4 5JH 16

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Telephone: 01904 629295 Mobile: 07970 739119 email: sue@daleslife.com www.daleslife.com

MAKERS OF BESPOKE KITCHENS AND BEDROOM FURNITURE

T 01609 775383 W WWW.DEANSBURYKITCHENS.CO.UK

E INFO@DEANSBURYKITCHENS.CO.UK

KITCHEN WORKTOPS BESPOKE DESIGN | MANUFACTURE | FITTING

WE DESIGN, MANUFACTURE AND FIT DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL WORKTOPS IN GRANITE, MARBLE, QUARTZ STONE AND CORIAN速

T: 01845 522523 info@dalesofthirsk.co.uk F: 01845 527198 www.dalesofthirsk.co.uk SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life |

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Own a holiday cottage in Yorkshire?

Isn’t it time for you to go Gorgeous‌ In an increasingly competitive market, you need an Agent that will stand out from the crowd. Based exclusively in Yorkshire and focusing on only the very best self-catering this region has to offer, Gorgeous Cottages is an Agent unlike any other.

gorgeouscottages.com info@gorgeouscottages.com

call 08447 366276 for more information

Competitive rates, a passion for Yorkshire, superb occupancy levels and fantastic repeat booking rates - just a few of the things our owners love about us. Visit our website to find out more.

LUXURY LINEN HIRE AND LAUNDRY SERVICE FOR THE DALES We are the premier rental service for luxury bed and bath linen in the Dales.

We specialise in holiday cottages, guest houses and hotels. We can take responsibility for your stock levels and ensure there are no stock turnover penalties.

We also offer a housekeeping service for homes and holiday cottages.

See our new web site for further details.

THE WHITE BEDDING CO. LTD. Unit 4, Leyburn Business Park, Leyburn, North Yorkshire DL8 5QA julie@thewhitebeddingco.com

www.thewhitebeddingco.com 18

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01969 623699

Inside Story Ideas for inspired interiors

A Touch of Magic

THE FETTLING FAIRIES The Fettling Fairies started as a hobby for Shelley Johnson, whose talent for giving characterful old furniture a new lease of life soon began to attract attention. It wasn’t long before her pastime had turned into a thriving family business. Parents David and Joy became involved, and The Fettling Fairies moved into workshops at Moulton, near Richmond. Today they send their work all over the UK, with style-conscious Londoners being especially enthusiastic customers.

The Johnsons have a keen eye for striking pieces, and a network of contacts keep a look out on their behalf for unusual tables, dressers, dressing tables

and cabinets. “We try to be sympathetic to the history of each piece,” says David. “If it has major scars we’ll deal with them, but we don’t try to produce something that looks new.

“Shelley is the ‘Artistic Fairy’, and she chooses colours that suit each piece. We steer well clear of ‘distressing’ furniture – we’re not looking to do a quick fix. Instead we’ll apply numerous layers of paint, sealer and carnauba wax to create a highly durable, top-quality finish.

We’re passionate about what we do, and our aim is to produce furniture that our customers will be equally passionate about!” thefettlingfairies.co.uk 01748 478748 SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life |

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Home Comforts

LOVE THY INTERIORS Mother-and-daughter team Sarah and Kelly brought a new dash of style to the shopping scene in Thirsk when they opened Love Thy Interiors last September.

Both ladies have a longstanding passion for interiors, and they have filled their light, spacious showroom in Kirkgate with a

carefully chosen mix of furniture, soft furnishings, homeware, gifts and accessories.

Whether your tastes tend towards the traditional or the contemporary, there’s something to suit every budget, and several exclusive ranges that you’ll struggle to find elsewhere in the area. These include cookware from Mary Berry, beguiling fragranced candles from Neom and fabulous crockery from Hinchcliffe & Barber, whose ‘Songbird’ ceramics have just been awarded the title Gift of the Year 2015.

Sarah and Kelly have big plans for the future. They will be

launching an online shop, and are also busy extending their sales area by creating a number of room settings – including a fitted kitchen and a sitting room – so customers can view products in their intended context. At the core of their business, though, is a determination to offer customers an informative, friendly, personal service and to make the shopping experience relaxing and fun. lovethyinteriors.co.uk 01845 527123

Space Aces

CUSSONS & STOREY Design consultants Karen Storey and Sara Cussons started working together in 2013, using their artistic flair and wealth of practical experience to help clients transform their living or working spaces. The pair’s impressive portfolio covers everything from state-ofthe-art kitchens to luxurious bathrooms, and they are past masters at designing stunning cinema and media rooms.

Good interior design begins, Karen and Sara believe, with a thoroughgoing analysis of the space in question, looking closely at how it needs to function.

Lighting is one of their especial 20

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strengths, and a key factor in any project. “You can have the most beautiful interior, but it will lose a huge part of its character if the lighting isn’t right,” says Sara.

“Unlike many interior designers, we don’t try to impose a house style on our clients,” she continues.

“Modern or traditional? We believe the important thing is to strike the right balance between being sympathetic to the space and reflecting each client’s personality and needs.”

Their perfectionism extends to every aspect of the process.

“When working with upholstery

or curtains, for example, even the most expensive fabric will look cheap if it’s not made up properly.

We pride ourselves on keeping on top of even the smallest details, at every stage of the project.” cussonsandstoreyinteriors.co.uk 01944 768105

BRINGING YOUR HOME TO LIFE

EXCITING NEW BATHROOM SHOWROOM NOW OPEN At Bathrooms Direct we bring you exceptional bathrooms at incredible savings. Each one is elegant, practical and designed to last a lifetime. We are a family-run business with over 30 years’ experience and offering excellent personal service.

Call us now to arrange a free design and estimate.

BATHROOMS

DIRECT 01677 425788 sales@bathrooms-direct.net www.bathrooms-direct.net

John H Gills Yard, 1 Leeming Lane, Leeming Bar DL7 9AB SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life |

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WILD ANGLE | PHOTOGRAPHERS CELEBRATE THE BEAUTY OF THE NATURAL WORLD

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hummingbird hawk moth

by Whitfield Benson

True to its name, the hummingbird hawk moth (Macroglossum stellatarum) looks and acts just like a diminutive hummingbird.

It hovers in the air, its tiny wings a blur, whilst it uses its long, flexible proboscis to sup from nectar-rich flowers. Hummingbird hawk moths are clearly creatures of habit, because they tend to visit the same patch of flowers at the same time every day.

Most moths are secretive creatures, only on the wing at night, but the hummingbird hawk moth is busy during daylight hours, so you’ve got a good chance of spotting it if you keep watch on its favourite plants, which include honeysuckle and Buddleja. Listen carefully too: those tiny wings really do beat so fast they hum!

Hummingbird hawk moths can’t survive a harsh British winter. Most migrate from North Africa and Southern Europe in the spring, returning in autumn. The caterpillars feed on lady’s bedstraw, hedge bedstraw and wild madder, so why not encourage them by planting some of these species in a corner of your garden?

Whitfield Benson is a Ripon-based professional photographer whose clients include the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority and The National Trust. He has also photographed many special events, and a whole host of celebrities.

Whitfield runs photography workshops for ArtisOn (artison. co.uk), and his talks on photography are always very popular with local groups. To contact him call 01765 698890 or email whitfieldbenson@talktalk.net.

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MILNERS of Leyburn E S T. 1 8 8 3

STYLE FOR YOU AND YOUR HOME Introducing the Vintage collection from Sanderson CARPETS | RUGS | CURTAINS | BLINDS | UPHOLSTERY | BEDDING LADIES FASHION AND ACCESSORIES

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6 Market Place, Leyburn DL8 5BJ | 01969 622208 | sales@milnersofleyburn.co.uk www.milnersofleyburn.co.uk | Dales Life | SUMMER 2015

Tables Time It’s that time of year when thoughts turn to garden furniture, and this lovely 1.45m Alexander Rose Bengal pedestal table with matching Bengal armchairs ticks all the boxes: elegant, comfortable, and made to last in durable roble wood. At Sam Turner in Northallerton (sam-turner.co.uk) you can currently buy the table and six chairs, along with cushions and parasol, for £1,499 – a whopping £400 or so below the manufacturer’s RRP.

garden notes

CAN DO! Watering cans don’t have to be dull and functional, and these bright and breezy 1 litre Haws watering cans will make gardening duties jollier for adults and children alike. Haws have been manufacturing top-quality watering cans since 1886, and they don’t compromise on quality.

These are made from durable, premier grade injection-moulded plastic, and they incorporate brass watering roses. Choose from a range of colours at Jamesons Country Store, Masham, wejameson.co.uk/country-store.

by Adam Appleyard

Seasonal Sensation

CROCOSMIA

LUCIFER Here’s a winning variation on a cottage-garden favourite to add zing to summer borders and seasonal cut-flower arrangements. Crocosmia (formerly known as Montbretia) forms clumps of handsome sword-shaped leaves, sending up graceful spikes of trumpet-shaped flowers from midsummer onwards.

Most forms of Crocosmia are yellow or orange, but ‘Lucifer’ makes a far more striking impression with its smouldering, redder-than-red petals.

Crocosmia isn’t picky, and grows happily in pretty much any moist, well-drained soil – given the right conditions it can even become

Hidden Treats

quite invasive. Plant corms in spring, or young plants from early summer onwards, arranging them in groups for maximum impact.

Lift and divide your clumps every few years in spring to give them a new lease of life.

Foraging for wild plants is the latest foodie fad, but finding supper in the countryside is fraught with difficulties, not least of which is obtaining the landowner’s permission for denuding their territory of tasty goodies. So instead of scratting about under the hedges, why not take a closer look at what’s already in your own garden?

Plenty of ‘ornamental’ garden plants are edible too, as you’ll discover in The Garden Forager: Edible Delights in your Own Back Yard, by Adele Nozedar (Square Peg, £12.99).

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MIND YOUR PEAS

WORTH THE CANDLE Nothing beats dining outdoors on a warm summer’s evening, and these Stornaway lanterns from Love Thy Interiors (lovethyinteriors.co.uk) are a stylish and practical way to keep the candles on your table from blowing out in the breeze. And if the weather turns out to be disappointing, they’ll look equally good indoors! The powder-coated steel bases come in three elegantly muted shades (Shutter Blue, Charcoal and Clay) and the glass is removable.

garden notes

PLANT IT NOW

by Adam Appleyard

AUTUMN CROCUS

Despite its name and appearance, the delicate, pale pink autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale) isn’t actually a crocus at all. Even so, it’s every bit as beguiling as the crocuses that delight us in spring.

Colchicum is native to the UK, but wild populations – some of them in carefully protected pastures here in the Dales – are rare.

To thrive, the autumn crocus needs well-drained soil in a sunny spot. Waterlogging will kill it, so pick your site carefully. It looks best planted in loose drifts in rock gardens or sunny borders, lawns or wildflower meadows, but you can also use it to spiffy up end-of-year containers. A note of caution: all parts of this plant are toxic, so be aware of the potential risk to children and pets.

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Don’t believe the gardening books that insist you sow your peas in spring, because there’s nothing to stop you planting them now and still getting a decent late-summer crop.

As long as frosts aren’t too harsh, peas will continue cropping well into October, sometimes beyond.

Maximise your chances by planting a fast-maturing pea such as the excellent ‘Douce Provence’.

Get your Unwins pea seeds from Jamesons Country Store, Masham, wejameson.co.uk/country-store

NO RESERVATIONS You’ll be familiar with the idea of providing a ‘bug house’ in your garden to shelter ladybirds, lacewings, wild bees and other helpful invertebrates. Well, here’s the luxury version! The Elegance Insect Habitat is nothing short of a bug boutique hotel. It has a variety of rooms guaranteed to suit all manner of visitors, and architectural good looks that make it into a work of modern art.

Buy it online from the RSPB at shopping.rspb.org.uk

GROVE HOUSE

Bespoke Kitchens & Interiors E S TA B L I S H E D

1 9 7 7

Turning your dreams into reality Specialists in the creation of high quality and truly bespoke solid wood and hand-painted kitchens, dressing rooms and home offices for 37 years.

As we make all our own cabinets we can create and design any layout with limitless choice of style and finish. Using only the finest materials our small friendly team of creative designers, time-served cabinet makers, polishers and painters, along with considerate installers, will ensure you receive the highest standard of service, leading to a unique bespoke kitchen that fits seamlessly into your home, causing minimum disruption and maximum effect.

E E HOInUteS GROe V s or ri & ns he Kitc Bespok

E GROVEHOUS Ind. Est. t Park, Thirsk ep Unit 1 Conc 3NH 7 YO ire sh rk Yo Thirsk, North 62 Tel. 01845 5235 re.co.uk ovehousefurnitu Email. info@gr uk sefurniture.co. www.grovehou

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second nature

Sadly, the countryside isn’t what it was. Recent research confirms you can now find more wild bees in suburban gardens than you can in farmland. Decades of overuse of pesticides and destruction of hedgerows have left many of our favourite wild creatures dependent on our gardens for food and shelter.

Words by Elena Greenway, Images by GAP Photos

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“our favourite wild creatures depend on our gardens for food and shelter”

OPENING PAGES Common frog among daisies THIS PAGE, TOP Brown long-eared bat ABOVE LEFT Oenothera biennis with butterfly ABOVE RIGHT Nicotiana alata - Tobacco Plant OPPOSITE Small pond with bronze frog fountain OVERLEAF RIGHT Hedgehog LEFT Insect hotel on a wall surrounded by Hedera helix

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ot everyone’s garden is a natural paradise either. A patio and a neatly mown lawn aren’t particularly valuable resources as far as birds and animals are concerned. Buying a bird feeder and tacking up a nest box or two are excellent first steps, but if you really want to give local wildlife a boost you’ll need to be more creative. Here are some more adventurous wildlife gardening ideas that are well worth considering.

LOOKING ON THE DARK SIDE Gardening for Bats

Watch carefully and you’ll notice there’s a certain moment on a summer’s evening when the swifts and swallows swooping over your garden suddenly vanish.

Within seconds, like workers changing shifts at a factory, the first bats appear –

a seamless changeover between daytime insect-hunters and nighttime ones.

Most of us are familiar with the idea that we should plant our gardens with a varied succession of plants to provide nectar for bees and butterflies. Well, why not go a step further and make your garden bat-friendly too?

To attract bats you’ll need to encourage moths and other night-flying insects. Night-scented flowers such as evening primrose (Oenothera), tobacco plant (Nicotiana) and night-scented stock (Matthiola) will fill your garden with gorgeous fragrances in the evening, and attract hordes of insect visitors too.

The RHS has compiled a comprehensive list of bat-friendly plants, which you can find by searching for ‘plants for bats’ at rhs.org.uk.

As well as food, of course, bats need somewhere to live, so you might also like to put up a bat nesting box. For specialist advice on bat boxes visit the Bat Conservation Trust website, bats.org.uk.

IN FOR A POND Maximise the Value of your Water Feature

Lots of us have a pond, which is always good news for local birds and animals. Not all ponds are equal, though, and you can make yours ten times as useful to wildlife by taking a few simple steps.

Firstly, think about access. Wide open spaces are scary to cross if you’re a frog, newt or small mammal. Plant dense cover on at least one side of your pond, so that visitors and potential residents have a chance of getting to the water’s edge without being picked off by predators.

Secondly, consider the water margin. If you fancied a dip in the sea, you would probably prefer walking down a gently sloping beach to leaping off a cliff, and our native mammals and amphibians are no different. Many people’s ponds are simply too steep-sided for pond-loving animals to get in and out, so if you’re building a pond, make at least one side of it a shallow, gentle slope. If you already have a steep-sided pond, pile up stones to make an access ramp for your potential clients.

Fill your pond with oxygenating plants like Callitriche, Ceratophyllum and Hottonia to keep water quality high. Don’t let it get choked with leaves in autumn, and whatever you do, don’t introduce fish – they will ruthlessly gobble up all the tiny pond-dwelling organisms that amphibians and dragonfly larvae would otherwise have been able to feed on.

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“ Ivy can protect masonry from damaging temperature extremes”

THE IVY LEAGUE British Wildlife’s Favourite Plant Ivy (Hedera helix) has a fearsome reputation for damaging backyard buildings. Interestingly, though, a recent study funded by English Heritage painted a very different picture. Ivy, it reported, can provide a ‘thermal shield’ that will protect masonry from damaging temperature extremes, and also defend it against water penetration and atmospheric pollutants.

Certainly in terms of encouraging wildlife, ivy is probably the most important plant you can have in your garden. Along with other climbers like honeysuckle and clematis it creates a dense tangle that provides refuges and nesting sites for a huge variety of birds and invertebrates. Unlike honeysuckle and clematis, ivy has the advantage of being evergreen, so it carries on providing protection all through winter.

Ivy’s virtues don’t end there. Visit an ivy-clad wall on a sunny morning in October, and you’ll find it buzzing with insects attracted by its sweetly scented flowers – one of the few nectar sources still open for business at the close of the year. The flowers are followed by fat black berries, poisonous to humans but vital food for birds in late winter.

All in all, then, ivy is a remarkably valuable wildlife resource. By all means keep it under control, but don’t go all-out to eliminate it completely!

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GET THE HOLE STORY What Hedgehogs Really Want The hedgehog is one of our best-loved native mammals, but a study published last year revealed the depressing news that hedgehogs are far more sparsely distributed than was previously thought. Our back gardens should be a safe haven for them, so why don’t they make more use of them?

The answer is simply that many of us have fenced them out. The panel fencing that has become so popular in recent decades presents hedgehogs with an impenetrable barrier, as do brick and stone walls.

If you want hedgehogs in your garden, you’ll need to make a small hole in – or tunnel underneath – your fence. A 13cm x 13cm gap is big enough to do the trick, says the British Hedgehog Preservation Society.

Unfortunately it’s not quite as simple as making just the one ‘hedgehog door’. The average hedgehog roams a mile in a single night, and needs a territory of a dozen gardens to sustain itself. The solution is to liaise with neighbours who are also willing to provide gaps in their boundary walls and fences. By working together you can build up a network of interconnected gardens, and all of you will benefit from having hedgehogs hoovering up slugs and snails! You’ll find helpful tips about garden access for hedgehogs – and lots more ideas for supporting them – at hedgehogstreet.org.

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SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life |

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summertime

BLUES

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Want a garden full of bees and butterflies?

Then add some bewitching blue blooms to your borders! Adam Appleyard chooses four of the best.

gnore the garden and think about the hedgerows for a moment. In the wild, most plants that flower early in the year are white or yellow: snowdrops, daffodils, garlic, hawthorn and cow parsley, for example. As we move towards summer, pinks, purples and blues start to take centre stage: thistles, scabious, knapweed, thyme, willowherb and so on.

The reason is simple enough. Wild flowers are understandably keen to get pollinated, and they know that springtime pollinators are attracted to light, bright colours. In summer, on the other hand, there is a completely different set of insects on the wing, insects

with a hankering for blues, purples and pinks – hence the increase in plants sporting those colours. The lesson for gardeners is clear: if you want your garden to be buzzing with winged visitors in summer, think blue, purple and pink.

Blue seems to have an especially beguiling effect on bees, butterflies and moths, and here I’ve selected four of the brightest and bluest summer flowers you can grow. Introduce them into your garden and it won’t be just the local wildlife that will be delighted. All four are bold, sculptural plants that will add structure and interest – along with vibrant, eye-catching colour – to your plantings.

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BLUE SEA HOLLY Eryngium

Conical flowerheads surrounded by starburst whorls of pointy bracts make a clump of Eryngium look for all the world like a miniature firework display. There are dozens of species of Eryngium worldwide, including one (E. maritimum) that grows wild on UK coasts.

But despite their common name, and forbiddingly spiky appearance, they’re not related to holly.

In fact they are cousins to parsley and celery.

One of my favourite sea hollies is Eryngium bourgatii, which is available as several vivid, violetblue cultivars including ’Pen Blue’, ‘Picos Blue’ and ‘Oxford Blue’. It’s a clump-forming perennial, hardy down to around -10ºC, that will grow to 50cm tall over the course of two to three years.

The cold of an average winter won’t kill it, but prolonged winter damp potentially will, so give it a sunny, open, freely draining spot. If your soil tends to retain the wet, mix horticultural grit into the top 10cm or so, aiming for a 50:50 grit to soil mix.

Eryngium will be content with relatively poor soil, so don’t feel the need to mulch or dig in compost.

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“ several local bumblebees chased me all the way across the car park trying to snatch a last taste of them” BLUEBEARD

Caryopteris × clandonensis

OPENING PAGES LEFT Terrace in summer with blues and violets RIGHT Eryngium ‘Picos Blue’ with bees THIS SPREAD, LEFT Eryngium planum ‘Jade Frost’, TOP LEFT Eryngium bourgatii, TOP RIGHT Caryopteris x clandonensis ‘Worcester Gold’, ABOVE Caryopteris x clandonensis ‘Longwood Blue’ Images © GAP Photos

Now here’s one that really makes bees go weak at the knees. I bought some Caryopteris plants from a local nursery last year and several of the local bumblebees chased me all the way across the car park trying to snatch a last taste of them.

Caryopteris is a compact shrub that forms a dense mound a metre high. The foliage is headily aromatic, with a scent reminiscent of eucalyptus. It will continue bearing tight, dense flowerheads well into October, making it a valuable source of nectar at a time when the rest of the garden is winding down.

Attractive cultivars include ‘Worcester Gold’, which has punchy yellow foliage that contrasts perfectly with the indigo-blue flowers, and ‘Sterling Silver’, with pale, silvery leaves. Caryopteris will thrive in just the same conditions as Eryngium, that’s to say welldrained, poor-to-moderate soil in a sheltered, sunny spot. Prune stems down to 15–20cm high in early spring to promote vigorous new growth and encourage a neat shape.

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BLUE GLOBE THISTLE Echinops

LEFT Echinops ritro ABOVE Echinops ritro ‘Veitch’s Blue’ BELOW Echinops ritro with a bumble bee and a Silver-washed Fritillary OVERLEAF Meconopsis baileyi syn Meconopsis betonicifolia Himalayan Blue Poppy Photos © GAP Photos

With its spiny leaves, pale stems and perfectly spherical, steely blue flowerheads, Echinops is a plant with genuine poise and grace.

It makes a fantastic cut flower, although you’ll want to leave plenty of stems standing until the end of the year to add structural interest to your garden in winter.

Echinops bannaticus ‘Taplow Blue’ forms tight clumps up to 200cm high. For a smaller plot choose E. ritro ‘Veitch’s Blue’, which is half the height. Both are inclined to flop in wet, blustery weather, so stake them well or use a wire plant support to keep them looking smart.

Both of these Echinops will be happy in relatively poor, welldrained soil, but they’re not quite so fussy as Eryngium or Caryopteris and will also tolerate partial shade. Mine have returned year after year, even following the harshest winters.

“ Mine have returned year after year, even following the harshest winters” SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life |

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HIMALAYAN BLUE POPPY Meconopsis

There’s no denying it, the Himalayan Blue Poppy is an absolute dream of a plant. Its graceful 150cm tall stems carry a bountiful succession of large, delicate flowers, sky blue with vividly contrasting egg-yolk yellow centres.

Meconopsis has a reputation as a ‘difficult’ plant, but that’s no reason not to try it. They key thing to remember is that you can’t simply plonk it down any old where and expect it to thrive.

There’s a lot of confusion in horticultural circles regarding names, but usually what’s sold as ‘Himalayan Blue Poppy’ is either M. baileyi (aka M. betonicifolia) or M. ‘Lingholm’. RHS Harlow Carr has been trialling different Himalayan poppies for several years, so it’s worth popping in to have a chat with their helpful staff about the latest cultivars.

The easiest way to establish a colony of Meconopsis is to buy two or three potted plants from a reputable nursery.

They will need a well sheltered, shady spot on rich, moist, freely draining soil, preferably a tad on the acid side of neutral. An ideal site would be underneath well-established deciduous trees, because they appreciate generous helpings of leaf mould. Young plants can be devastated by slugs and snails, so take appropriate precautions.

Himalayan Blue Poppies are short-lived perennials, but both M. baileyi and M. ‘Lingholm’ will set fertile seed. If they take a liking to the site you’ve chosen for them then they should – with a bit of luck – eventually become a selfsustaining colony.

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SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life |

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TO HIRE AND BUY

Order online at thelogcompany.com or call 01748 889298 42

| Dales Life | SUMMER 2015

WOOD FIRED HOT TUBS

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Lowmill Landscapes are hard landscaping contractors that specialise in all aspects of landscape work, including walling, paving, driveways, water features, fencing and groundworks.

Our small team of qualified, experienced craftsmen provides an efficient and excellent service throughout the Yorkshire Dales and surrounding areas.

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FOR ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS Bedding Plants, Watch ‘em Grow Starter Plants, Seedlings and Plugs, Hanging Baskets, Planted Arrangements, Trees and Shrubs

To book space in the Autumn issue contact Sue Gillman Telephone: 01904 629295 Mobile: 07970 739119 email: sue@daleslife.com www.daleslife.com

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Ravensworth, Richmond DL11 7HA Tel: 01325 718370 | Fax: 01325 718953 | info@ravensworthnurseries.com SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life |

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SHORE things

Yorkshire boasts some of the best coastline in the country for nature lovers.

Professor Chris Baines suggests where to go, and what to look for.

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e are an island race, and no one in the British Isles lives further than 80 miles from the sea. Our beaches and inshore waters are amongst the cleanest in Europe, and the diversity of our maritime habitats, and the wealth of wildlife to be found in them, is truly remarkable. The Yorkshire Dales, of course, has no coastline of its own. Fortunately, though, just a short distance to the east – an easy day-trip – the Yorkshire seaboard offers an exceptionally rich and varied range of coastal environments.

ROCK STARS

Given the choice, I am always drawn to rock pools, and Robin Hood’s Bay has always been one of my favourite spots. Low tide offers a safe glimpse of some of the amazing plants and creatures that

normally live out of sight below the waterline.

Some, such as the beaded anemones and colourful seaweeds, stay locked to the rocks and easy to see. However, not all the seemingly static wildlife is actually motionless. If you have the patience, a minute or two of silent watching will reveal all manner of slow, deliberate movements, as winkles and whelks emerge from their snail-like shells and graze their way across the surrounding rocky surfaces.

Even the bright orange starfish will travel quite a distance each day in search of shellfish to consume. If you are really lucky, a whelk shell may surprise you by suddenly thrusting out a head, legs and claws, as its cunning resident hermit crab scuttles across the sand before disappearing once again inside its adopted home.

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The fronds of seaweed provide shelter and camouflage for even more exciting creatures.

Little green crabs, for example. When they think the coast is clear, you will see them skipping sideways from one hiding place to the next. In the larger, deeper pools there may be bigger crabs, with brown shells instead of green. These are young specimens of the edible crabs that may one day end up in a seaside sandwich.

Very occasionally you may see young lobsters, cleverly camouflaged and hidden away beneath overhanging rocks.

Many rock pools will contain a small fish or two, guaranteed to make you jump as they dart like lightning across open water. Blennies, gobies and the predatory bullhead are all quite common, but extremely well camouflaged. They are very easy to spot when they move, but when they settle again they seem to disappear completely.

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“ these are young specimens of the edible crabs that may one day end up in a seaside sandwich” BEACHY HEADS-UP

OPENING PAGES LEFT Striking view of a puffin about to land RIGHT Staithes at low tide OPPOSITE PAGE, LEFT Close-up of a European lobster TOP Orange starfish on barnacles THIS PAGE TOP Oystercatcher finds a crab ABOVE Blennie in a rock pool OVERLEAF Gannets nesting on a cliff-face Images © Drew Buckley and Steve Race

A sandy beach has its own unique range of wildlife too. Look out for patches of small worm casts of mud or sand interrupting the smooth surroundings. These are clues to a whole variety of creatures that live below the surface. You will sometimes see fishermen digging furiously to capture them for bait, and they include cockles, rag worms and lug worms.

Most people on the beach may be unaware of the life below their feet, but natural predators certainly know they are there. Many of the wading birds that feed in the wet zone where the sea and the sand meet have specially adapted beaks for digging down and dragging out their prey. Curlews, oystercatchers, knot, dunlin and several more species find rich pickings in this seaside habitat.

The flattest stretches of the coast lie around the tidal estuaries. These are muddy places, quite unsuitable for sunbathing and sandcastles, but amongst the richest habitats of all. If you can find safe access across the salt-marsh towards the mud flats, this is where you are likely to see beautiful wild flowers such as sea lavender and sea aster. You can also witness the spectacle of swirling flocks of birds sweeping and turning in tight formation, and many millions of tiny fish fry sheltering in the tidal creeks ahead of their hazardous journey out into the wider ocean.

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CRAGS LIST

Cliffs are the most spectacular of all coastal features, and once again the Yorkshire coast has some of the best in the country for wildlife.

If you want to watch stunning sea birds such as puffins, guillemots and kittiwakes at close quarters, the viewing platforms constructed at Bempton, just north of Filey, give a wonderful view right into their nests.

Most splendid of all are the gannets.

Around 80% of the entire world population of these magnificent fish-eaters nest around the British Isles, and each year they migrate south to spend the winter in the southern oceans around Antarctica. Their nests are great mounds of seaweed and driftwood, decorated with rope, fishnet and all manner of flotsam and jetsam. On land these birds are handsome, but ungainly. At sea there is no more dramatic wildlife spectacle than a gannet diving headlong into an unsuspecting shoal of fish.

MORE ON THE SHORE‌

If you want an expert introduction to coastal wildlife, the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust has opened a Living Seas visitor centre at Flamborough, four miles from Bridlington.

The centre offers displays and information, regular seashore safaris, and advice on where the best coastal habitats can be found. It has close links with the RSPB at Bempton Cliffs, just three miles away, and a day spent here will provide an excellent insight into the wildlife that lives where the land meets the sea. For more details visit ywt.org. uk/Living-Seas-Centre.

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Look closely…

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Talk to the experts – designed and fitted by specialists we can bring your ideas to life… We offer a no obligation design and quotation service, so contact us today and tell us about your plans – we’ll be delighted to hear from you.

SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life |

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THE QUEEN’S HEAD FINGHALL

ROOMS ç RESTAURANT ç BAR WEDDINGS ç PRIVATE PARTIES ç SPECIAL OCCASIONS Located in the picturesque village of Finghall and surrounded by spectacular countryside, The Queens Head is the perfect location to explore the beauty of the Dales.

The Queens Head, Finghall 01677 450259 | enquiries@queensfinghall.co.uk | www.queensfinghall.co.uk 50

| Dales Life | SUMMER 2015

STORE THING Sad to say, few of us store our vegetables properly. To stay in top shape they need to be somewhere that the air circulates – not a plastic bag or fridge drawer!

Potatoes in particular need to be kept out of the light or they’ll sprout and become toxic. Find a cool spot for them, and these limed wood vegetable storage drawers from Dovetail Interiors, Bedale 01677 426464 could be a stylish solution to the problem.

foodfile

FIRED-UP ABOUT

SMOKING

Chef Jürg Bleiker and his wife Jane ran The Old Deanery restaurant in Ripon for more than two decades before setting up Bleiker’s Smokehouse, and they’ve made it their mission to be the best in the fish-smoking business. Try their smoked trout fillets or their award-winning Highland peat-smoked salmon for a speedy but sumptuous – not to mention healthy – summer supper.

Browse the Bleiker’s range at bleikerssmokehouse.co.uk.

by Amanda Cook

Dales Delights

YORKSHIRE HONEY

The countryside is buzzing with bees, and up and down the Dales you’ll see clusters of hives put out by local beekeepers to give their bees access to wildflower meadows and hedgerows. Soon many of those hives will be moved up onto the moors to take advantage of the next big event in the Yorkshire beekeepers’ calendar: the blooming of the heather.

A good honey captures the essence of the flowers from which it was produced.

To enjoy Yorkshire honey at its most distinctive, choose unblended honey from a local market or deli. Honey gourmets also want their honey raw and

Leave It Out!

unpasteurised. Raw honey isn’t suitable for infants, but for adults and young children it’s believed to have several health benefits. There’s certainly no question that it’s far tastier, with lots of subtle floral scents that are destroyed by processing.

More and more people nowadays are avoiding dairy, and not just those of us diagnosed as lactose intolerant.

If you’re one of them – or you need to feed someone who is – this could be the book you need. In Dairy-Free Delicious (Quadrille, £18.99), awardwinning food writer Katy Salter shows how easy it is to create all manner of scrumptious family treats without reaching for the milk or butter.

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MINT

PESTO

Most of us have mint growing in our gardens, and now’s the time to use it. A fresh mint pesto offers a zingy alternative to traditional basil pesto, and it’s super-simple to make. Use it to give pasta dishes, fish and cold meats a summery lift.

Put a large bunch of mint into a food processor with 175ml good olive oil, 125g pine nuts, 125g grated Parmesan cheese, a clove of garlic and a dash of lemon juice. Blitz to a coarse paste, season to taste. Done!

For interesting variations, toast the pine nuts beforehand, or substitute almonds. Swap flat leaf parsley for half the mint. Add more garlic, or leave it out altogether. In short, be creative – it’s how ‘traditional’ recipes developed in the first place!

foodfile

DINNERS SCHOOL

A great meal starts with fresh, seasonal ingredients, which is why so many top chefs nowadays are growing their own veg. Want to follow suit, but not sure where to begin? Expert advice is on hand from our local gardening gurus at RHS Harlow Carr, whose Vegetable Growing Summer School will teach you all you need to know to grow a year-round supply of delicious vegetables. Begins 20th July, details from rhs.org.uk, 020 31765830.

by Amanda Cook

DEERHOUSE DELIGHTS Dressing up

On selected dates this summer you can enjoy delicious alfresco dining at Swinton Park’s Deerhouse, a charming period building with fine views of the castle, lake and grounds. Two-course barbecue lunches prepared

by Cookery School Head Chef Stephen Bulmer are £25 per person (children £12.50). Alternatively, watch the sun set as you savour a stylish five-course dinner by Samuel’s Head Chef Simon Crannage (£40).

Reservations essential, visit swintonpark.com or call 01765 680900 for dates and details.

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Warm weather means it’s time for crisp, cool salads, and if you want something delightful to drizzle on them, look out for the Charlie & Ivy’s range. For years, Maltonbased Adam and Jennie Palmer have been producing awardwinning, cold-pressed golden rapeseed oil, and now they’re using it to make some fabulously flavoured dressings, including lemon and poppy seed, sesame and soy, and smoked chilli. Find out more, or shop online, at charlieandivys.co.uk.

FOOD • WEDDINGS ACCOMMODATION in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales Our restaurant opened in April 2014 in the 150-year-old converted racing stables. Experience sumptuous honest cuisine, made with seasonal, locallysourced ingredients and served with hand-picked wine from our award-winning cellar in the warm, friendly atmosphere of these unique surroundings.

Stay in our refurbished spacious cottages, suitable for both couples and families, adjacent to the restaurant and The Forbidden Corner.

Our self-contained air conditioned function suite caters for 50 guests and up to 350 people can be accommodated in a marquee in the exquisite grounds of Tupgill Park, making for memorable weddings and events.

Why not ask about our tasting menus?

Bar • Restaurant • Cellar • Accommodation COVERDALE, LEYBURN, NORTH YORKSHIRE DL8 4TJ T: 01969 640596 E: INFO@THESADDLEROOM.CO.UK WWW.THESADDLEROOM.CO.UK SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life |

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Enjoy Roux Scholar Jonathan Harrison’s unique cuisine in the traditional surroundings of the Sandpiper Inn. Modern British food using only the finest local ingredients, beautifully prepared and presented.

Fine wines, real ales and friendly service.

Accommodation available.

Market Place, Leyburn, North Yorkshire Tel 01969 622206 www.sandpiperinn.co.uk

Grouse Week Appetiser

S S Roast Grouse S

Monkfish with Cauliflower Risotto

To book space in the Autumn issue contact Sue Gillman Telephone: 01904 629295 Mobile: 07970 739119 email: sue@daleslife.com www.daleslife.com 54

| Dales Life | SUMMER 2015

Raspberry Mousse or 5 Yorkshire Cheeses ÂŁ39.95 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th September

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Spring at The White Bear Masham, North Yorkshire PUB

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The White Bear is a five star inn situated in the pretty market town of Masham, in the foothills of the Yorkshire Dales.

We serve delicious breakfasts, lunches, afternoon teas and dinner.

All prepared using the finest local produce.

Stay in one of our delightful rooms and experience a real taste of the Dales.

01765 689 319 • thewhitebearhotel.co.uk SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life |

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the discerning

DINER Claudia Blake visits Fairhursts Bistro in Middleham

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here are several places to dine out in Middleham, but Fairhursts Bistro is the one least likely to be discovered by the casual visitor.

It’s tucked away behind the Middleham Key Centre, which is itself concealed down a narrow lane at the top of the town. Even if you did stumble across it by accident, you’d be lucky to find it open for business. That’s something that only happens on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings.

Fairhursts’ dining room is a narrowly rectangular space with seating for a modest thirty covers. You enter via the Key Centre’s car park, which is a convenient facility if you happen to be driving, but does tend to dominate the view from inside. The bistro has the added drawback of having inherited the Key Centre’s office-style polystyrene ceiling tiles. Despite this a valiant effort has been made to create the atmosphere of a modern city bistro. There are wooden floors and neat, square wooden tables in matching honeyed tones.

A small bar at one end, and a large rectangular mirror at the other, help the place seem more spacious than it is.

We didn’t need to spend long poring over the menu because there were only four starters and four mains to choose from. To my mind that’s a good thing, because the size of an establishment’s menu is generally in inverse proportion to the quality of the food. One of the best meals I ever ate was in a restaurant that offered no choices at all. High expectations, then.

Even before our starters had appeared we were feeling optimistic that our expectations would be met. For one thing we had just been served some lightly curried chicken blinis as an amuse-bouche, and they were both delicious and exquisitely presented. For another, we had gorged ourselves on some splendid focaccia bread, which came with a dipping dish of luscious, peppery olive oil. At Fairhursts they clearly have an eye for detail.

When you find ‘KFC chicken’ listed as a starter on the menu of a fine dining establishment, you know there has to be something clever going on. And indeed there was. What arrived was a slate bearing a chicken-in-a-bucket meal, but a miniature one. And by ‘miniature’ I mean positively Lilliputian.

There was a diminutive silver bucket (rather classier than the usual red-and-white paper tub) packed with tiny, crumb-coated and masterfully seasoned nuggets of chicken wing, along with a doll’s-house salad and a pile of chips so thin they would make the average matchstick look clinically obese. Another highlight was the petite serving of piquant, pint-sized Boston beans; think baked beans, but with a lovely spicy kick.

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Delighted? Of course we were. Frankly it was everything you could hope for in a starter: a selection of perfectly matched, tasty titbits, precisely cooked and wittily presented.

Whilst it could hardly hope to compete with this inspired Colonel Sanders makeover, our other starter, Yorkshire pudding with beef jus, was another miracle of miniaturisation. A light, delicate, pocket-sized pud with a spoonful or two of meaty sauce, enlivened with touches of horseradish sauce and the warm tones of caramelised onion. Hearty eating, in a dinky kind of way.

A hard double-act to follow, but our mains showed no let-up in quality. The crisp-topped, sesame-studded black miso cod was served with broccoli and pak choi, and sparkled with authentically Japanese flavours. Carbs came in the form of hasselback potatoes, a Swedish recipe, but one that fitted in unexpectedly well with the Oriental elements of the dish.

“chips so thin they would make a matchstick look clinically obese” Our other main, crispy jerk belly pork was equally engaging. Belly pork can be hit and miss, but the Fairhursts version was lusciously melting without seeming too fatty. The chilli heat from the jerk seasoning certainly helped it along, and so did the tiny cubes of sweet-sharp mango. A plump tomato stuffed with rice added extra visual interest to the plate, although I thought the rice would have benefited from a shake more salt.

Desserts continued the good work, although without quite reaching the dizzy heights of the first two courses. The floating islands (poached meringue in custard) slipped down easily enough, but I would have preferred custard with a little more ‘give’ to it rather than the kind you can carve. As for the chocolate pancake with chocolate sauce, I had been imagining a huge pancake slathered in rich, glossy chocolate gloop. What we got were some tiny pancakes, apparently made with cocoa in the batter, and not nearly enough chocolate sauce to satisfy the raging desires of a confirmed chocoholic.

Make no mistake, though, Fairhursts bowled us over, and we can’t wait for their menu to change so we can find out what other clever tricks Chef has got up his sleeve. One of the joys of writing restaurant reviews is the opportunity to alert people who appreciate good food to places they might not otherwise have tried. ‘Hidden gem’ is a vastly overused phrase, but Fairhursts Bistro certainly qualifies as one.

Comparatively well hidden, and very definitely a gem.

For further information about Fairhursts Bistro call 01969 624668 or visit fairhursts.co.uk.

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What to expect

Exciting, inventive cooking that’s fun to look at and packed with flavour.

Ambience

Neat, uncomplicated, efficient urban bistro.

Service

Cheery, friendly, reassuring.

The bottom line

Three courses will cost you just over £28 per person, excluding drinks.

Ideal for

Anyone with an appetite for something different.

High point

Chef waving his magic wand over Colonel Sanders’ fast food bucket and turning it into fine dining.

Don’t worry about Parking.

STEP INTO SWALEDALE, STAY, RELAX, EXPLORE

Summer at The Burgoyne

Walks, wild flower meadows, drinks on the lawn, magnificent bedroom views, rushing waterfalls, bustling market towns, fine wine, delicious food, tranquil, restful, memorable.

On The Green, Reeth, North Yorkshire • 01748 884292 • enquiries@theburgoyne.co.uk • www.theburgoyne.co.uk

relaxed dining in the yorkshire dales

Situated in the picturesque market town of Leyburn Thirteen offers good, honest food using the very best of locally sourced produce together with a great selection of superb wines.

A great place to meet friends and family for a lazy lunch or a relaxed dinner.

for reservations T: 01969 622951 E: table@thirteenatleyburn.co.uk www.thirteenatleyburn.co.uk

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Opening hours Tuesday - Friday 10am - 5.00pm Saturday 10am -6pm and bookings only from 6pm - 8pm.

Sunday 10am - 4pm All bank holidays from 11am to 4pm Bookings now available online

Unique Gifts French & English Furniture All Day Tea & Coffee • Lunches & Afternoon Tea Birdforth YO61 4NW • 01845 501495 • thecornercupboard.co.uk

DELI, BAKERY & TEA ROOM From our deli Home baked bread Delicious cakes and scones Pies and pasties baked daily Greetings cards and gifts OUR TAKE HOME BISTRO MEALS all cooked on the premises OUR TEA ROOM IS OPEN DAILY

∙ Market Place, Askrigg ∙ ∙ www.askriggvillagekitchen.co.uk ∙ ∙ 01969 650076 ∙ 60

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LOBSTER FESTIVAL Appetiser

S

Ham hock terrine, pineapple chutney, toast

S

1 whole (shell-less) lobster thermidor

S

Dessert or Cheese £47.50 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th July

7 Silver Street, Masham, N Yorks, HG4 4DX vennellsrestaurant.co.uk 01765 689000

Stone House Hotel Relax and unwind in our classic country house overlooking Wensleydale Here’s an idea - Why not take a drive through the beautiful Yorkshire Dales, stop at the Stone House Hotel near Hawes and enjoy: • A revitalising freshly brewed coffee or Yorkshire tea with homemade baking • A delicious light lunch from our new Summer Menu • A fabulous dinner from our daily table d’hote menu

Or better still - pack an overnight bag and enjoy one of our highly recommended dinner, bed & breakfast packages!

Relax - Explore - Discover Sedbusk, near Hawes, Wensleydale 01969 667571 www.stonehousehotel.co.uk

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A Taste of

SUMMER

Fresh and vibrant recipes for lazy summer days

MINTED PEA SOUP

WITH FRAZZLED PROSCIUTTO DI PARMA Serve this vibrant, zingy soup chilled and in small glasses. It can be prepared and chilled in advance and garnished just before serving.

1 bunch of spring onions

sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 large garlic clove, crushed

GARNISHES

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 potato, peeled and diced

750 ml hot vegetable stock 300 g frozen peas

a big handful of rocket, roughly chopped 1 generous tablespoon freshly chopped mint

4 slices of prosciutto di Parma 1 tablespoon olive oil pea shoots

crème fraîche or sour cream SERVES 4–6

Trim and slice the spring onions. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan, add the spring onions and garlic and cook over medium heat for a couple of minutes until tender but not coloured. Add the diced potato to the pan along with the vegetable stock. Bring to the boil, then simmer gently for about 20 minutes, or until the potato is really tender. Add the peas, rocket and mint and cook for a further 3–4 minutes.

Tip the contents of the pan into the bowl of a food processor or blender and blend until smooth. Pass the soup through a fine sieve and season with salt and black pepper. If the soup is too thick, add a little more vegetable stock.

Chill the soup until ready to serve.

To garnish, roughly tear the prosciutto into pieces. Heat the oil in a frying pan, add the prosciutto and cook until crisp. Remove from the heat and drain on paper towels.

Divide the soup between 4–6 small glasses. Add a teaspoon of crème fraîche to each, top with pea shoots, crisp prosciutto and a bit of black pepper, and serve immediately.

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A very simple, light dish that packs a hefty punch. You can make your own harissa paste but it is just as delicious straight from the jar.

Wear food-safe vinyl gloves when preparing chillies if you do make your own; no matter how well you wash your hands, there will always be some lingering spice on your fingers, which causes agony if you rub your eyes.

BUTTERFLIED PRAWNS

WITH AVOCADO AND HARISSA DRESSING 4 large raw tiger prawns, about 100 g each 1 small avocado, sliced

½ small red onion, sliced

a small bunch of fresh mint 1 head Little Gem lettuce olive oil

sea salt, to taste

½ lemon, cut into wedges HARISSA DRESSING

1–2 teaspoons harissa paste

2 tablespoons natural yogurt SERVES 2

Preheat a heavy-based stove-top grill pan over high heat. Put the tiger prawns on a chopping board and cut them lengthways with a sharp, serrated knife from the tail to just before the head. Open up the tail and season with a little olive oil and salt.

Once the pan is smoking hot, add the prawns so that they stand on their opened-up tails.

Cook for about 3–5 minutes, until the flesh has turned white, then turn off the heat.

Mix the avocado, red onion, mint and lettuce, and drizzle with a little olive oil and sea salt. Place the prawns on top with a wedge of lemon.

Depending on how fiery you like it, mix 2 teaspoons of harissa paste with the yogurt (the yogurt counteracts the heat) and dress the prawns and avocado salad. Or you could put a dollop of yogurt and a spoonful of harissa on each plate and let your guests manage their own heat.

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MOROCCAN-SPICED

SHOULDER OF

LAMB

This marinade works really well with all cuts of lamb. Shoulder is inexpensive and flavoursome, just be aware that it is quite fatty, so try and trim off as much excess as possible. If you want to play it safe, Barnsley chop or neck fillet are good alternatives.

1 butterflied shoulder of lamb, bone removed (approx. 1.6–2 kg including bone) 2 tablespoons ground coriander 2 tablespoons ground cumin

2 tablespoons smoked paprika

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon 1 tablespoon garlic powder

2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary olive oil, for the marinade

sea salt and freshly ground black pepper fresh mint leaves, to garnish SERVES 4–6

This is so, so easy. Just mix all the herbs and spices together and loosen the mixture with olive oil. Baste it all over your lamb shoulder and leave it for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight in the fridge. Remove it from the fridge and let it come to room temperature before you start to cook.

Get a barbecue seriously hot and place your lamb on the grill to cook. As the fat melts and renders, the flames will flare up and char the meat. If it’s beginning to look a bit too black, spray a little water onto the coals to cool them. Cook for approximately 10 minutes on each side.

Remove from the heat and leave to rest, covered with kitchen foil, for a further 10 minutes. Slice it into strips and serve, garnished with mint leaves.

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ROSEWATER PAVLOVA The dessert that everyone loves. Give a simple pavlova a twist by adding rosewater for a scented, perfumed quality – like a summer garden in bloom. You could also try flavouring creams and even meringues with lavender or orange-blossom water, too. If you can find candied rose petals, sprinkle them over the top to garnish.

If you are taking this on a picnic, take the meringue, cream and raspberries in separate containers and assemble just before serving.

4 egg whites

225 g golden caster sugar 1 teaspoon cornflour

1 teaspoon white wine vinegar TOPPING

250 ml double cream

1 tablespoon rosewater

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites with an electric hand whisk until they just form stiff peaks.

Gradually add the sugar, a couple of tablespoons at a time, whisking well between each addition. When all of the sugar is added, continue whisking for 3–4 minutes, or until the meringue is stiff and glossy and stands up in peaks, then whisk in the cornflour and vinegar.

350 g fresh raspberries

Spoon the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and use a palette knife to shape it into a circle about 20 cm/8 inches in diameter.

a baking sheet lined with nonstick baking parchment

Bake in the preheated oven for 1½ hours, then turn the oven off, leave the door ajar and leave the meringue inside to cool completely (or leave it overnight).

1 tablespoon caster sugar icing sugar, for dusting

SERVES 6

When cool, remove the meringue from the oven and carefully peel it off the baking parchment. Place the meringue on a serving dish. Don’t worry too much if the meringue breaks a bit – there is plenty of topping to hide the cracks!

Put the cream in a mixing bowl and whisk until just thickening up. Add the rosewater and sugar and carry on whipping for a few more minutes until the cream is thick enough to spread. Spoon the cream onto the meringue, heap the fresh raspberries on top and dust with icing sugar.

Recipes and photographs are from Flavours of Summer, published in hardback by Ryland Peters & Small and available from all good booksellers, RRP £19.99.

Flavours of Summer is available to readers of Dales Life for the special price of £13.99 by telephoning Macmillan Direct on 01256 302699 and quoting reference GLR CN2.

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A Touch of

SPICE

Give your cooking a lift with the heady flavour of natural vanilla

HEIRLOOM TOMATO BISQUE WITH GREEN PEA PESTO BISQUE Preheat oven to 375ºF/190ºC. Line a baking tray with lightly greased foil, then place halved tomatoes cut-side up on tray. Sprinkle with sugar and salt and roast for 40 minutes, until bubbly and lightly browned on top.

SERVES 4

BISQUE 1kg/12 med. heirloom tomatoes, fresh* 10g brown sugar 2 tsp fine sea salt 45g unsalted butter 1 vanilla pod, split and scraped

Melt the butter in a 1½–2ltr soup pot with vanilla seeds and pod.

Add onion and cook until translucent. Add garlic, bay leaf and stock.

Add roasted tomatoes (or canned) and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 20 minutes (30 for canned).

1 brown onion, peeled and chopped

Add pepper and season to taste with lemon juice and salt. Simmer an additional 5 minutes then remove vanilla pod and discard.

1 tbsp cracked pepper, fresh

Purée liquid with a stick-blender or food mill until smooth. Gently whisk in cream, yogurt or crème fraîche.

GREEN PEA PESTO Simmer peas in salted water for 2 minutes. Drain well then pour into a food processor bowl with the S blade. Add garlic, oil, basil and lemon juice. Whizz to a fine purée then add Parmesan with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside or chill until ready to serve.

TO SERVE Top the bisque with green pea pesto and crème fraîche (if wished) and serve immediately with warm buttered toast. May be refrigerated and reheated next day, or you can serve the bisque cold.

2 garlic cloves, peeled and chopped 1 bay leaf, bruised 350ml chicken or vegetable stock juice of 1 lemon sea salt flakes to taste 120g cream/crème fraîche or Greek yogurt GREEN PEA PESTO 130g peas, fresh or frozen 1 garlic clove, chopped 75ml extra virgin olive oil 15g basil leaves, chopped 10ml lemon juice 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese sea salt and cracked pepper to taste 60g crème fraîche to serve, if wished *If fresh tomatoes are not available substitute 2 cans of whole tomatoes.

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SEARED SCALLOPS ROAST TOMATOES WITH VANILLA, GINGER LEMONGRASS DRESSING

SERVES 6

PETER GORDON

24 scallops with roe attached, out of their shells and cleaned

Depending on the size of the scallops, you’ll need 3 to 4 per portion. Buy them with the coral roe still attached as it has a wonderful flavour, but make sure they’re cleaned well and the rubbery muscle is removed.

Preheat oven to 350°F/180°C. Brush the scallops gently with 1 tbsp of the olive oil and leave on a tray, covered tightly, to come to room temperature.

Cut the cherry tomatoes in half and sit on a baking tray lined with baking paper, cut sides facing up. Sprinkle with the chilli flakes and a little flaky sea salt. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and bake until they just begin to colour and shrivel – about 20 minutes.

To make the dressing, cut 1 in/2 cm off the base of the lemongrass stem. Remove the 2 outer leaves, chop finely and place in a small pan with the pandan leaf, vanilla pod, ginger, lime juice, mirin, sake and soy sauce. Bring to the boil, then simmer for 6 minutes. Strain through a sieve into a jam jar with a screw-top lid.

Slice the inner stem of the lemongrass as thin as you can and put in the jar with the lemongrass liquor and the sesame and sunflower oils.

Give it a good shake, adding salt or extra lime juice if needed.

Heat up a heavy-based pan or skillet (or the barbecue if it’s summertime) and grill the scallops for 90 seconds on each side – more or less depending on size. They’re best cooked medium rare.

To serve, divide the greens amongst your plates and sit the scallops on top. Place 8 cherry tomato halves around the scallops then drizzle generously with the dressing.

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45ml olive oil 24 cherry tomatoes ¼ tsp dried chilli flakes (more or less to taste) sea salt flakes to taste 10cm fresh lemongrass stem 15cm pandan leaf, roughly chopped (or ⅛ tsp pandan extract)* 2cm vanilla pod, piece, split in half ½ tsp ginger, finely chopped 30ml lime juice 60ml mirin 60ml sake 20ml soy sauce ½ tsp toasted sesame oil 20ml sunflower oil 170g watercress or rocket leaves * Pandan leaves and extract can be found in most Asian grocery stores.

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BITTERSWEET CHOCOLATE TORTE Melt butter with chocolate in a bowl set over barely simmering water, stirring occasionally until smooth. Remove from heat, stir in salt, coffee and vanilla and set aside.

225g unsalted butter

Butter inside of an 8-in/20-cm springform pan and line the bottom with a buttered baking paper circle. (You can also make individual sized cakes; simply reduce the baking time to 10–15 minutes.) Preheat oven to 325°F/160°C.

¼ tsp fine sea salt

In a clean, dry stand-mixer bowl with whip attachment or using a handheld mixer with clean, dry beaters, beat whites until frothy. Sprinkle in cream of tartar and whip another 30 seconds. On low speed, slowly stream in half the amount of sugar then turn speed to high and whip until glossy soft peaks form. (Do not overbeat or whites will be dry and separate.) Transfer from mixing bowl into a large dry bowl and set aside.

Return the mixer bowl to the machine. Add yolks and remaining sugar.

Whip on high speed 3–4 minutes until yolks are pale yellow and tripled in volume. Turn speed to low and fold in cooled melted chocolate until just mixed. Turn off mixer and fold whites into chocolate mixture in 3 stages, not over-mixing but without leaving white streaks.

Pour into prepared pan and lightly smooth top. Place on baking tray and bake 25–30 minutes until the top is lightly cracked and the centre is set but still a little jiggly.

Cool for 20 minutes then run a knife around inside of pan. Gently release metal ring and transfer torte to a serving plate to cool completely.

TO SERVE Dust with powdered sugar and/or cocoa powder. Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed with salted almonds and fleur de lait amande as shown here. A snifter of Cognac, bourbon or a steamy espresso are also great accompaniments.

Recipes and photographs are from Vanilla Table: The Essence of Exquisite Cooking from the World’s Best Chefs by Natasha MacAller with photography by Manja Wachsmuth, published in hardback by Jacqui Small and available from all good booksellers, RRP £25.

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225g 70% bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped 10ml strong espresso, cooled or 1 tsp espresso powder dissolved in 2 tsp water 15ml pure vanilla extract 7 eggs, large, separated, at room temperature ¼ tsp cream of tartar 200g superfine sugar 2 tsp powdered/icing sugar, to serve 2 tsp cocoa powder, to serve

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sunshine specials Three sizzling summer recipes from TV chef Peter Sidwell INGREDIENTS

KING SCALLOPS WITH SWEET POTATO PURÉE

12 king scallops

2 spring onions

50g butter

a handful of coriander leaves

1 tbsp curry powder 2 large sweet potatoes 1 tsp ground cumin

The key to this recipe is to source scallops that are plump, firm and pure white – and use a super-hot frying pan to cook them in!

Stir the curry powder into the vegetable oil and leave to let the spices infuse.

Preheat the oven to 180º and bake the sweet potatoes for 30 minutes. Making potato mash this way locks in all the flavour.

100ml vegetable oil 2-3 tbsp single cream SERVES 4

Drizzle a few drops of curry oil onto each scallop and then place them into the hot frying pan.

After about 30 seconds add the butter. Turn the scallops over and turn off the heat. While you dress the plates the scallops will continue to cook.

Spoon out the sweet potato into three small quenelles, and top with the scallops and the dressed salad. Finish with more of the curry oil and serve.

While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the scallops by trimming off the orange roe. Place the trimmed scallops on a tray lined with kitchen paper to absorb any water they might have soaked up during storage. Set aside.

When the potatoes are cooked, cut them in half.

Scoop out the potato and place in a saucepan.

Add the ground cumin and a splash of cream and beat with a wooden spoon. Stir well, set aside and keep warm.

Strip the coriander leaves from the stalks and chop the spring onions finely, placing them in a small bowl. Add some of the curry oil and stir so that all the leaves are dressed, as you would a salad.

To cook the scallops, place a frying pan on the heat and leave to get really hot. Season the scallops with salt and pepper.

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CHORIZO AND SHIN OF BEEF A simple dish based on a great combination of ingredients, cooked low and slow. When I’m making this I like to double up quantities – it’s fantastic to have as a back-up in the freezer, and makes a terrific filling for burritos.

INGREDIENTS 2 large white onions

500ml beer

3 carrots

1 beef stock cube

4 cloves of garlic

2 tsp ground cumin

1kg shin of beef, diced

1 handful chopped fresh coriander

2 x 400g tins of chopped tomatoes

4 tbsp of sour cream

200g diced chorizo sausage

Using a sharp knife, dice the onions, carrots and chorizo into 1cm cubes.

Place the ingredients into a large casserole dish.

Chop the garlic and add to the pot, along with the cumin, stock cube and the shin of beef. Pour in the chopped tomatoes and the beer.

Cover with a lid or foil and cook for 4 hours at 160º.

When the beef is lovely and tender, remove from the oven and stir together.

Finish with the chopped coriander and spoonfuls of sour cream.

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HONEY AND WALNUT SWIRLS Pour the flour and custard powder into a large mixing bowl and mix together.

Place the yeast at one side of the bowl and the salt and sugar on the other. Make a well in the middle of the bowl and pour in the milk. Using your hand in a claw shape, roll it around the bowl to mix the dough together. When the mixture comes away from the bowl onto your hand, transfer it to a clean work surface dusted with a little flour.

INGREDIENTS 420g strong white flour

50g butter, softened

30g custard powder

1 egg, beaten

10g dried yeast, or 20g fresh

10g ground cinnamon

Break up the butter and place onto the bread dough. Knead your bread dough by stretching it away from yourself while holding it with the other hand, incorporating the butter into the dough.

100g sugar

200g walnuts

10g salt

12 tbsp honey

Continue to knead for 5-10 minutes until you have a very smooth dough that is easy to move around. Place the dough back into the mixing bowl, cover with cling film and leave to prove for 1 to 2 hours.

Roll the dough from the far side towards yourself to create a Swiss-roll shape. Divide the walnuts into the bottoms of each of 12 compartments of a silicone bun tray. Add a teaspoon of honey over each portion of nuts.

When the dough has rested and doubled in size, scoop it out and knock all the air out so you have a flat smooth dough. Using a small amount of flour, roll the dough out into a rectangle approximately ½ cm thick.

Cut the dough into 12 equal portions and place them, cut side down, on the honey and walnuts.

Leave the swirls to prove for an hour at room temperature, or overnight in the fridge.

Brush the beaten egg all over the dough, then dust the ground cinnamon and sugar over the painted egg. This will create a beautiful spicysweet swirl of flavour right the way through the bread.

350g milk

Bake in a preheated oven at 200º for 20 to 25 minutes until golden. When the buns are cooked, leave them to cool for 20 minutes, then turn them out and over so that all the honey runs back into the buns. Serve warm with a little vanilla ice cream.

Signature by Symphony sponsors this article in association with Holme Design

I N S P I R E D D E S I G N S C R E AT E D F O R Y O U Call 01677 424669 to arrange a free consultation • holmedesign.com • symphony-group.co.uk 80

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STAY

DINE

WEDDINGS

Yorebridge House is situated in the heart of the beautiful Yorkshire Dales with stunning backdrops of rolling hills and rivers. The Victorian Grade II Listed former Headmaster’s House and School sits proud and welcoming, promising luxury, relaxation and beautiful interiors. The award winning five star accommodation boasts individually designed luxury bedrooms, some of which include their own private terraces with outdoor hot tub.

Perfect for romantic getaways, Yorebridge House also offers superb 2AA rosette dining, including delights such as Swinton Estate Venison with Brambles and Chocolate, Beef Fillet with Confit Tomato, Onion & Oxtail, and to finish Dark Chocolate Pavé with Pear, Honeycomb and Praline Ice-Cream.

Yorebridge House is also the perfect venue for a Wedding Day to remember. Licenced for civil ceremonies this exclusive use venue offers a bespoke wedding service to help you create the day of your dreams along with your own personal wedding coordinator.

Yorebridge House - Bainbridge - Leyburn - Wensleydale - North Yorkshire - DL8 3EE. - UK Telephone: 01969 652 060 - Facsimile: 01969 650 258 Email: enquiries@yorebridgehouse.co.uk - Web: www.yorebridgehouse.co.uk

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SEASON’S BEST

COURGETTES This delicious tart combines succulent courgettes with Fountains Gold Cheddar from the Wensleydale Creamery

Low in calories but rich in potassium and vitamins, courgettes have a light, delicate flavour that makes them ideal for summer dining. The key to cooking them is not to overdo it – lightly grill or briefly fry in olive oil. Courgettes are easy to grow, and remarkably prolific providing they get rich soil, a decent amount of sun, and regular watering. For the best flavour, eat them while they are small; older, larger courgettes can be bland and fibrous.

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Courgette, Onion and Fountains Gold tart INGREDIENTS 400g shortcrust pastry plain flour for dusting 350g courgettes 1 tbsp olive oil knob of butter 1 large onion, finely chopped 2 large garlic cloves, finely diced small bunch of fresh thyme, stems removed 150ml double cream 1 large egg 2 egg yolks 130g Wensleydale Creamery Fountains Gold Cheddar, grated

Set oven to 220°C/gas 7 and preheat a baking sheet. Roll the pastry out onto a lightly floured work surface to line a 20cm x 3.5cm loose-bottomed tart tin. Prick the base all over with a fork and chill in the freezer for 10 minutes.

Line with baking paper and baking beans or rice, then bake for 12 minutes.

Remove the paper and beans or rice, reduce the temperature to 180°C/gas 4, and return to the oven for 5 minutes.

While the tart case is cooking, grate the courgettes into a sieve, toss with a little salt and leave over a bowl for 5 minutes. In a sauté pan, heat the olive oil and butter on a low-to-medium heat and soften the onion and garlic for 5 minutes. Increase the heat, stir in the courgette and thyme leaves, and fry for a couple of minutes until just golden.

In a large jug, mix the cream with the egg, egg yolks, two-thirds of the grated cheese and some black pepper. Spoon the courgette and onion mix over the base of the tart. Pour over the cheese and cream mixture and scatter with the remaining cheese. Cook in the oven for 25 minutes until golden and just set.

ABOUT THE WENSLEYDALE CREAMERY The Wensleydale Creamery in Hawes is famous the world over as the home of Yorkshire Wensleydale cheese, which achieved European Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status in December 2013. This means that Yorkshire Wensleydale cheese is the only one actually made in Wensleydale itself – if it doesn’t say ‘Yorkshire Wensleydale’ it’s not from Wensleydale!

For more information about The Wensleydale Creamery and their Visitor Centre – plus more inspirational cheese recipes – visit www.wensleydale.co.uk.

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dales life May 15 145x109.5mm_Layout 2 06/05/2015 17:17 Page 1

siZZle this summer... with saks NorthalletoN New customers fiNd out what makes our team special. hair aNd beauty treatmeNts oNly £20 each HAIR: cut & finish FACE: luxurious and prescriptive facials, lashes, brows and makeup BODY: 3D-lipo body contouring, massages, spray tan, waxing and gel nails

To book call 01609 770885 or pop in and see us at 84 South Parade, Northallerton.

Terms & Conditions: Mention offer at time of booking. only one hair and beauty treatment can be redeemed per person. valid for customers new to Saks Northallerton only. Not valid on homecare products or gift vouchers.

Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Gatsby’s hairdressing

01677 426943 Kokkino

The best of British and International contemporary designer jewellery Enameller, jeweller and goldsmith Bespoke design service and commissions Jewellery gallery and in-house workshop Contemporary textiles and accessories Newsteads • High Street • Leyburn North Yorkshire • DL8 5AQ Opening hours, Mon 10.00am - 4.00pm, Thurs, Fri & Sat 10.00am - 5.00pm.

T: 01969 368006 • info@emmasedman.co.uk emmasedman.co.uk 84

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Summer Offer

20% discount for new clients 9a Market Place, Bedale

FACE FORWARD

As well as giving you a perfect smile, Hampsteads Dental Practice in Northallerton (www.lovingyoursmile. co.uk) offers a full range of cosmetic facial rejuvenation treatments to help you look younger and more radiant. All are carried out using, trusted brands, taking account of the anatomy of the face to ensure a natural-looking result.

Botox can reduce the appearance of forehead furrows and other facial lines.

Dermal fillers will help smooth lines and wrinkles by restoring volume to the skin.

To add the finishing touch to your new look there’s Express Teeth Whitening, a new, pain-free way to brighten your teeth in under 30 minutes.

Hampsteads are running ‘Feel Good’ Cosmetic Clinics on Saturday 4th July (10am-1pm) and Tuesday 4th August (2.30pm-6pm). Call 01609 761377 to book.

beauty file

Bronzed Beauty

The Face and Body Gradual Tan from Crème de la Mer’s ‘Soleil de la Mer’ collection gives your skin an even, natural-looking glow, protection against the appearance of premature ageing, along with long-lasting hydration. The ‘Soleil’ collection also includes high-performance face and body lotions to ward off those harmful UV rays. From John Lewis, York.

by Liz Hanson

Solar Powder

If winter has left your skin pale and in need of an urgent bronzing boost, here’s an innovative product that could be just what you’re looking for. And what makes it genuinely exciting is that it’s far more than just a quick fix!

Vita Liberata Trystal Minerals bronzing powder offers an instant radiant tan that will carry on giving you that gently sun-kissed look for up to five days. It’s all down to a clever combination of pure mineral bronzers and crystallised tanning agent DHA. With its lightweight, fl awless coverage and oil-free formula, Trystal Minerals is clearly a top contender for this summer’s cosmetics ‘must-have’! available at Blink Beauty, Northallerton, 01609 779390, blinkbeauty.co.uk.

Light Fantastic Light, bright days are here again, and you need a radiant complexion to match.

Applied after your regular day cream or mixed with your foundation, Clarins Instant Light Radiance Boosting Complexion Base will help cover imperfections and give your skin a captivating summery glow. From Clarins counters nationwide.

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Weigh Ahead We all want to look slim and trim for summer, but shedding those surplus pounds can be a miserable business. And even after weeks of self-denial, the weight usually comes piling back on again all too soon. The solution? Rather than aiming for short-term pound loss with the latest celeb-endorsed fad diet, we need to get to grips with the underlying causes that make us overweight, says Gillian Appleby.

Gillian is a qualified psychologist, lecturer and cognitive behavioural therapist who specialises in helping her clients make the lifestyle changes that will bring about genuine, long-lasting changes.

In March she opened the Right Weigh clinic in Northallerton. A Harrogate branch followed shortly afterwards, and there’s one coming to Richmond soon too. In confidential, one-to-one consultations, Gillian works with each of her clients to identify the habits leading to unhealthy eating, then modify behaviour to eliminate them. The temporary weight reduction produced by fad diets is largely due to water and lean muscle being lost, says Gillian, and

that’s the reason weight is swiftly regained once normal eating is resumed. Gillian’s approach, by contrast, is to help each client develop a nutritionally balanced regime that will ensure that it’s fat, not lean tissue, that disappears. This will not only put an end to those dieter’s hunger pangs, it will prevent skin looking loose and saggy following weight loss.

For more information about Right Weigh, visit rightweigh.co.uk or call Gillian on 07935 219718 or 01 609 760202 to book a free one-hour assessment consultation.

beauty file

by Liz Hanson

Sheer Delight Turn up the heat with Tom Ford’s Lip Colour Sheer, a collection of four smouldering shades that work perfectly with summer skin. They glide on smoothly, delivering a lustrous sheen of semi-translucent colour, and they contain a blend of moisturising ingredients that will keep your lips looking moist and lush, even on the driest of days. From Harvey Nichols, Leeds.

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The Perfect Peel With holidays looming, what better time to get your skin into tip-top condition?

Saks Hair and Beauty in Northallerton offer a range of advanced skincare and facials that can help you do just that. The Saks ‘Today’ peels are perfect for those suffering from acne, rosacea, or sensitive, dry and ageing skin. Using botanically-based ingredients they accelerate the natural dermal renewal process, boosting collagen and gently resurfacing the skin. For super-quick results try the Saks ‘Tomorrow’ peels, which supercharge the skin’s renewal process and stimulate collagen and elastin.

The treatments continue to produce beneficial effects long after the session is over, repairing damaged skin, reducing pores and softening lines.

Call 01609 770885 or find Saks Northallerton online at facebook.com/SaksNorthallerton.

White Straight Beautiful…You • • • • •

Express teeth whitening only £35 Botox and fillers from only £99 Implants to replace missing teeth Affordable treatments in 5­star surroundings Invisalign® clear braces and Quick Straight TeethTM

Call our friendly team on 01609 761377 or e­mail hello@lovingyoursmile.co.uk to book your free consultation

www.lovingyoursmile.co.uk • 48 High Street, Northallerton DL7 8EQ

New Jersey, for everyone who loves to knit.

Your local, inexgpetrriaenvecel dexpert award winn A personal travel service for all your holiday requirements

Contact Tracy Charlton for your next holiday on:

Visit our beautiful shop in Bedale.

38 Market Place, Bedale, DL8 1EQ. 01677 427746 www.newjerseywools.co.uk

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01748 822540 / 07795 522429 tracy@designertravel.co.uk designertravel.co.uk/tracycharlton Tracy at Designer Travel

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Designer Travel is a division of Hays Travel Ltd., 25 Vine Place, Sunderland, Tyne &Wear.

Company Reg. No. 1990682

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the nursery Set in Amen House, a charming Grade II listed building in the grounds of Bedale Hall, Incy Wincy’s Day Nursery offers full-time and part-time childcare to youngsters from six weeks of age upwards. We spoke to Nursery Manager Sarah Moon-Gatford during a break in her busy schedule.

When and how does your day start?

We’re open from 7:30 in the morning, Mondays to Fridays, all year round, with the exception of Christmas and Bank Holidays. Because we’re a relatively small-scale nursery we quickly get to know all the families, so everyone gets a warm welcome and there’s always a nice friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Good communication is vital, of course, so a key member of staff will have a chat with mum, dad or grandma to discuss how each child has been getting on at home since we last saw them. We also make full use of modern technology to keep in touch with parents. Our staff now use iPads to record their observations and assessments, and parents can be updated by email or log in via our website to find out about the highlights of their child’s day.

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How is the nursery organised?

We have four different rooms, each one designed to meet the developmental needs of a specific age group. Babies up to twelve months are based in the Caterpillar Room.

For our one- to two-year olds we have the Bumble Bee Room. Our two- to three-year olds are Ladybirds, and finally we have the Dragonflies, from three years upwards.

All of the rooms are equipped for a wide variety of activities, including water and sand play, painting and messy play. Our aim with all age groups is to provide the right balance between free play and structured learning – with the emphasis very firmly on fun!

We describe ourselves as ‘a Nursery at the heart of the community’ So what can your very youngest clients expect?

In our baby room everything is at floor level, with our Caterpillars enjoying plenty of ‘back and tummy’ time, exploring ‘treasure baskets’ full of sensory toys, checking themselves out in the mirrors, singing and dancing. It’s a lovely light, bright space, with French doors that open directly onto our new baby garden. We think it’s important that all our children spend a lot of time surrounded by natural objects, so we take every opportunity we can to spend time exploring the outside world.

And the next stage?

Our busy Bumble Bees are learning to master their bodies and getting to grips with physical movement, so there’s plenty of equipment for them to climb over, through and under, along with all sorts of things to post, roll and so on.

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And what about the oldest children?

Our Dragonflies are getting ready for school, so we want to give them as broad a range of experiences as possible. One crucial thing we’re aiming to help them develop – alongside literacy, mathematical skills and so on – is a sense of self-confidence. We want them to feel that it’s OK to have a go at something, and OK if it doesn’t work. One activity that’s especially popular with our Dragonflies is bakery classes at the Bedale Community Bakery. We describe ourselves as ‘a Nursery at the heart of the community’, and we often go out to explore the market, the shops, the fire station and so on. We’re particularly lucky to be so close to the centre of the town, and to have a back garden that gives us direct access to the park.

The Bumble Bee Room has a lovely mirrored fireplace, and it also includes the nursery’s kitchen, so our Bumble Bees get to experience all the exciting sounds and smells of cooking, and watch our chef at work. We’re very proud of our food, by the way. We source our vegetables, cheese, meat and bread from local suppliers, and we promote healthy eating by providing a carefully balanced, varied and nutritious menu, with meals tailored specifically to the requirements of each age group.

How about the Ladybird Room?

Our Ladybirds are very active two-year-olds, so there’s lots of building, making and doing, and a strong emphasis on real-life experiences. Recently, for example, our Ladybirds have been very interested in birdwatching, and they’ve been making bird feeders, visiting the woods and building bird hides.

One of our staff, Leanne, has been training as a Forest School leader. ‘Forest School’ is a Scandinavian model of education that involves children spending as much time as possible outside connecting with the natural world – doing everything from mud sculpting to den-building and cooking over an open fire. It’s a very exciting initiative that we look forward to developing further.

What do you and your staff enjoy most about your jobs?

I’m delighted that early years teaching has become more highly valued nowadays. It may look like we’re just playing, but I think people increasingly appreciate that our staff are trained professionals with a clear understanding of child development.

We recently won an Investors in People award, and parents often tell us that they chose our nursery specifically because of the quality of our staff.

From a personal point of view, it’s lovely to have a job working with young children. There’s always something to smile or laugh about!

For more information about Incy Wincy’s Day Nursery, visit incywincys.com or call 01677 425550.

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Spoil yourself AT S W I N TO N PA R K S PA Feel and look your best this summer with our wonderful Thalgo products, enriched with marine nutrients.

Enjoy a wide range of treatments and our private spa room* with hot tub, sauna and relaxation area.

• Advanced facials and de-stress massage • Luxury manicure and pedicure, waxing and tanning • Half-Day and Day Spa Experiences, Girls’ and Hen Party Packages Open daily: 10am – 6pm.

See website for Seasonal Offers and Gift Vouchers.

*Half Day and Day Spa guests only Swinton Park, Masham, Ripon, HG4 4JH www.swintonpark.com • spa@swintonpark.com • 01765 680967

June & July offer Exclusive to Dales Life readers

LVL lashes is a revolutionary new treatment which adds length, volume and lift to your lashes, no extensions required.

Results are immediate and the treatment is entirely painless.

Enjoy beautiful lashes for six to eight weeks.

30 - 32 Malpas Road Northallerton, N. Yorkshire DL7 8TB 01609 779390 www.blinkbeauty.co.uk 92

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Special offer to Dales Life readers £40 Patch test required 48 hours prior to treatment

SHOWCASING RURAL BUSINESS

Cottage Industry We meet the woman introducing the best of Yorkshire to discriminating visitors

hristina Brion first fell in love with Yorkshire when she left her native Northern Ireland to study at Leeds University. Now she and her family live here, and she has turned her enthusiasm for the Moors and Dales into a thriving business that helps visitors discover – as she once did – the delights of our wild landscapes and picturepostcard villages.

In 2012 Christina launched Gorgeous Cottages, a website showcasing some of the finest self-catering cottages in Yorkshire. From the outset she was determined that it would be no ordinary booking site.

“Having used other companies to book family holidays – and struggled to search out the one cottage that suited us from amongst the hundreds that didn’t – I wanted to create a website that would make the whole process a pleasure rather than a chore,” she says.

So how does it work? “For a start we’re very picky about who we accept,” says Christina. “Our cottages are all extremely well-appointed, but out-and-out luxury isn’t the whole story, it’s not necessarily what gives a cottage that certain special something. The crucial factor could be the character of the building, for example, or a really fantastic view, or the owner.

“We also give extremely comprehensive descriptions of each property, assessing it through the eyes of potential holidaymakers and offering them an objective and educated opinion. I try to visit every one of our cottages myself, and I spend time in the area exploring the local visitor attractions, restaurants, pubs, tearooms and so on. Sometimes I even go to stay at the cottage and write an in-depth feature on it for our blog. This means that when clients contact us with a query, we’ve done our homework and we’re in a position to give them an informed and accurate answer.

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“What’s more, our customers quickly realise that we are genuinely passionate about Yorkshire and about the properties we represent, and so they trust us and our opinions. We really do get amazing feedback and reviews – in fact more than 99% of our customers tell us that they would book through us again – so we’re obviously doing something right!

“Our cottage owners love us too, because of our competitive commission rates and the high level of personal service we offer. And, most importantly, because they know that we really do understand and appreciate what they are doing. Most of our owners put their hearts and souls into ensuring that their properties are immaculate, and they make every effort to give top quality service.

For them to be accepted onto our website is a recognition of all the hard work they have put in.

“We represent a hundred or so properties across Yorkshire. The majority of them are in the Dales, but we also have plenty on the moors, coast and Wolds, and also in York and Harrogate. They are very varied, and each of them has its own unique appeal.

“Bramble Bottom, for example, is a really lovely five-bedroomed cottage that embodies everything Gorgeous Cottages is about. The owners are extremely conscientious, and always go the extra mile for their customers. They have completely refurbished the property, and given each of the bedrooms a theme based on an aspect of Swaledale.

The location is fantastic, right in the heart of the honeypot village of Muker. To my mind Bramble 94

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Bottom is one of the ultimate family self-catering holiday destinations in the Dales.

“Then for a completely different experience there’s Bay Tree Barn in Nidderdale. It’s a twobedroomed cottage where the emphasis is very firmly on luxury, with elegant interiors that are pretty much 5-star-hotel standard. The hilltop location means there are breathtaking views across the Dale, and there’s a beautiful courtyard garden where you can sit and take it all in. All the peace and tranquility of the countryside, but with Harrogate and all its facilities just a quarter of an hour’s drive down the road.

“The future? We’re taking on gorgeous new properties every month, and to date this year has exceeded projections, which is hugely exciting. But one thing is certain, we won’t ever compromise on quality. We’ve built up a highly respected brand, and we have no intention of diluting it.”

For more information about Gorgeous Cottages visit gorgeouscottages.com or call 0844 7366276.

A nursery at the heart of the community

Our Ladybird Room is offering places for funded 2 year olds

Caterpillar Club Each Thursday between 9.30 – 11.15 am Babies can explore A warm welcome awaits you at Incy Wincy’s Nursery • Fully qualified staff team • while mums and dads have a natter • Enchanted journey for babies and children aged 0-5 years •

• Maze of beautiful gardens which boast mud kitchen, electric greenhouse, sensory garden, raised beds and wooden adventure play equipment • • Local suppliers used for our yummy menu • • Forest School, Makaton Signing, ECAT and Movement Play trained • • Attractive Listed building overlooking Bedale Park • • Fully inclusive - daily essentials provided •

www.incywincys.com Find us at: Amen House, North End, Bedale, North Yorkshire DL8 1XA tel: 01677 425550 e-mail: info@incywincys.com

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FOR THE BEST IN COUNTRY, LEISURE AND SHOOTING WEAR

Wilfords of Leyburn offers a wide selection of outdoor attire, including country, leisure and shooting wear, from a large range of top of the line outdoor clothing brands.

One of only a very few appointed UK stockists of the Holland Cooper luxury tweed clothing range, Wilfords offer clothing to suit all budgets.

14 MARKET PLACE, LEYBURN DL8 5BG • 01969 622213 • INFO@WILFORDSOFLEYBURN.COM WWW.WILFORDSOFLEYBURN.COM

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AUCTION ROOM HIGHLIGHTS

Prize Lot The Lot

“T

he most interesting thing about this little sauceboat is its maker’s mark,” says Mark Littler, expert valuer at Tennants auction house in Leyburn.

Maker “In itself it’s a pleasant enough item, and typical of its Magdalen Feline period, with its gadrooned rim, scroll handle and hoof feet. To be honest, though, there’s nothing particularly special about it. What Date will attract the interest of collectors, however, is the fact that it was 1757 made by a female silversmith, Magdalen Feline.

“During the 18th century, women would often work alongside Size their husbands, although of course the men would take all the credit.

20cm long Whilst not considered apprentices, the wives would learn the trade just as thoroughly as an apprentice would, so they had all the skills Auction estimate needed to carry on their husband’s trade following his death. £300 to £500 “Providing she could prove she worked to a high enough standard, the wife could register her own mark at Goldsmith’s Hall. Hallmarks For sale at are usually circular, oval or rectangular, but women’s marks tend to Tennants Auctioneers, be framed in a diamond lozenge, just as would happen with a woman’s Leyburn crest or cipher in heraldry.

Jewellery, Watches “There are keen collectors for female silversmiths, and so their work and Silver Sale, commands a premium. Magdalen Feline pieces seldom come up for sale 13th June 2015 – on average maybe once a year over the last fifteen years. The auction estimate of £300 to £500 reflects the value of the sauce Contact boat itself, but doesn’t take account of the marks, so I would tennants.co.uk be expecting it to fetch considerably more on the day.”

01969 623780

A George II silver sauce boat

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PHYSIOTHERAPY Neurological Rehab Pain Management Sports Therapy Therapeutic Massage Physiotherapy

COMPLEMENTARY THERAPY Acupuncture Clinical Hypnotherapy Reflexology Aromatherapy

CLASSES/TRAINING Dru Yoga Tai Chi Manual Handling Training Hot Flush Clinics Baby Massage

Formerly Leyburn Physiotherapy Practice

Masham: 01765 689556 healthfusion@btconnect.com www.healthfusion.co.uk Middleham: 01969 623354 leyburnphysio@btconnect.com www.leyburnphysio.co.uk

The core values of HealthFusion are to be dynamic and proactive. We focus on each individual’s needs, offering a personal level of care whilst providing a first-class service. We diagnose, treat and educate, helping many diverse conditions.

Do you have pain?

To book space in the Autumn issue contact Sue Gillman Telephone: 01904 629295 Mobile: 07970 739119 email: sue@daleslife.com www.daleslife.com

Back pain Headaches Neck pain Frozen shoulder Sports injuries Pregnancy issues Stress relief Osteopathy - Acupuncture - Massage www.bedaleosteopaths.co.uk

01677 425858

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GO WILD IN WENSLEYDALE AT WESTHOLME ESTATE

Tucked away on the banks of Bishopdale Beck, surrounded by lush rolling countryside, Westholme Estates is the perfect retreat for private parties, corporate events and celebrations.

And our brand new Animal Park is guaranteed to keep the kids entertained for hours!

Our contemporary lodges offer the perfect holiday location to experience the natural beauty of the Dales. Hendersons Bar and Restaurant, recently refurbished to the highest standards, is just a short stroll away – the ideal place to enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner or relax with a coffee while you plan your day’s adventures.

Westholme: at the heart of the Dales WESTHOLME ESTATE WESTHOLME ESTATE, AYSGARTH, LEYBURN, NORTH YORKSHIRE DL8 3SP 01969 663268 | paul.dixon@westholme-estate.co.uk

Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal 25 April — 29 November 2015

Discover Georgian follies transformed by some of the country's most inventive artists and designers.

nationaltrust.org.uk/folly

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NEWBY HALL & GARDENS

A Great Family Day Out! Graceful Country House Miniature Railway Children’s Adventure Playground Special Events throughout the year Open: 1st April - 27th September 2015 Tuesdays to Sundays, plus bank holidays. Open seven days a week in July & August. 11am - 5.30pm.

House open by guided tour - see website for times

Information Hotline: 0845 4504068

www.newbyhall.com

Newby Hall & Gardens, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 5AE

HARROGATE AUTUMN FLOWER

SHOW

Rated in top three gardening events by Which?Gardening

18-20 SEPT 2015

GREAT YORKSHIRE SHOWGROUND

PERFECT DAY OUT FOR ALL GARDEN LOVERS •40th anniversary show •Inspiration Street show gardens •NEW plant nursery pavilion •NEW harvest celebrations •Cookery theatre and specialist foods •1000s of beautiful autumn blooms •Giant vegetable show •Kitchen Garden Live •Unique crafts and gifts

Save £2.50*per ticket Book before Tuesday 8 September

flowershow.org.uk

01423 546157 *A booking administration charge applies per order

North of England Horticultural Society

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29th MASHAM

S H E E P FA I R 26th & 27th September 2015 During the weekend from 10.00 am SHEEP SHOW • SHEEPDOG DEMONSTRATIONS • SHEEP RACING SPINNING & WEAVING DEMONSTRATIONS OLD TIME CHILDREN'S FAIR • WOOL EVENT – WOOL STALLS & DEMOS MORRIS DANCERS • HANDBELL RINGERS • TOURS AROUND T&R THEAKSTON AND BLACK SHEEP BREWERIES • HARVEST FLOWER FESTIVAL • BISHOP BLAIZE PROCESSION & BANDS • HANDSPUN WOOL COMPETITION Further details and entry forms are available from MRS SUSAN CUNLIFFE-LISTER, High House, Swinton, Ripon HG4 4JH Tel: 01765 688417 or susan@burtonagnes.com or at Broadley's Insurance Office, Market Place, Masham

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SUMMER 2015

Dales Diary NEWBY HALL

SWINTON PARK

near Ripon 01423 322583, option 3 newbyhall.com

Masham 01765 680900 www.swintonpark.com

Summer Essentials Garden Workshop

Garden Lunches: The Walled Garden

Wednesday 8th July, 10.30am to 3.30pm Head Gardener Mark Jackson will focus on the selection, care and best combinations of plants for the herbaceous border. A hands-on day in the gardens. £32 per head, booking essential.

22nd June, 13th and 27th July Two-course seasonal lunch, talk and a garden tour with Susan Cunliffe-Lister. £35 per person.

Historic Vehicle Rally Sunday 19th July, 10am to 5pm Over 1,500 vintage and historic vehicles assemble in Newby’s grounds for one of the North’s biggest shows.

27th June, 25th July, 8th August Enjoy a five-course dinner created by Swinton Park Head Chef Simon Crannage, as you watch the sun go down over the Parkland. Dinner, including aperitif and coffee, £45.

Newby Fireworks Championship

BBQ Cookery and Alfresco Lunches

Saturday 25th July, 5.30 to 11pm Three of the UK’s best firework companies compete against each other with a tenminute firework display, choreographed to music, followed by a finale display from organisers MLE Pyrotechnics. See newbyfireworks.co.uk for details and prices.

28th June, 26th July Pre-lunch BBQ grilling courses and relaxed alfresco buffet lunch at the restored period Deerhouse overlooking the castle.

Cook and lunch: £40. Lunch only: adult £25, child £15.

Deerhouse Dinners

Deerhouse Barbecue Lunches 28th June and 26th July Enjoy an alfresco two-course barbecue buffet lunch at the Deerhouse, with a glass of Pimms on arrival. £35.

Garden Design Days 30th June, 7th July A day with Susan Cunliffe-Lister learning about garden design and planning, including a two-course lunch, £75 per person.

Estate Produce Lunches: Walled Garden Produce 18th July, 15th August Three-course Saturday lunches showcasing produce from the Estate. £25.95, including a Swinton gift.

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SUMMER 2015

HARROGATE AUTUMN FLOWER SHOW Great Yorkshire Showground 01423 546157 www.flowershow.org.uk Friday 18th September to Sunday 20th September, 9.30am to 5.30pm (4.30pm Sunday).

Tickets £14.50 if booked before 8th September (Sunday £13), or £17 on the gate (Sunday £15.50). Under 16s free with an adult.

Celebrate the harvest at the UK’s premier autumn gardening event, featuring spectacular colour, amazing produce and fabulous show gardens.

Stroll along Inspiration Street for ideas on making the most of small garden spaces, and visit the new Plant Pavilion where nearly 100 nursery displays will compete for a Showstopper Award.

MASHAM SHEEP FAIR Masham, near Ripon www.mashamsheepfair.com Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th September, from 10am Two days of sheepy fun and entertainment in one of the finest market squares in England!

There’s an action-packed programme on both Saturday and Sunday, with events including a sheep show, sheep racing, craft market, Bishop Blaize procession, fleece stalls, wool competition, sheepdog demonstrations, handbell ringers, morris dancers, art exhibition and tours of Theakstons and Black Sheep breweries, as well as an Old Time Children’s Fair. All proceeds from the Sheep Fair will go to Yorkshire Charities.

DALES COUNTRYSIDE MUSEUM Station Yard, Burtersett Road, Hawes, DL8 3NT 01969 666210 www.dalescountrysidemuseum.org.uk

It’s the show’s 40th autumn event this year, an anniversary marked by the launch of a new sweet pea variety and specially themed floral art, plus a new range of activities that include woodland foraging and preserve-making.

Our popular giant vegetable competition continues to grow, and as well as the big beasts there will be plenty of pristine beauties in two exhibition shows for fruit and veg.

Other highlights include a packed programme of demonstrations, great garden shopping and specialist regional foods.

Open daily from 10am to 5pm You’ll find plenty of opportunities for summer fun at the Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes. Explore our outdoor sculpture trail, with its willow den, mud kitchen and nature trail complete with pixie houses. And see what beasties you can discover in the bug hotel!

During the holidays we hold Crafty Wednesdays and Family Fridays. We also have exhibitions, and we run workshops for adults where you can learn everything from felting, printmaking and rug-making to sausage making. For full details of all our events and activities visit our website or phone 01969 666210.

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SUMMER 2015

FOUNTAINS ABBEY & STUDLEY ROYAL near Ripon 01765 608888 nationaltrust.org.uk/fountains-abbey

KIPLIN HALL near Scorton, Richmond 01748 818178 kiplinhall.co.uk

Folly!

Until Sunday 29th November, 10am–5pm The whimsical follies in the water garden will be transformed from their original use by some of the country’s most inventive artists and designers, with plenty of surprises to fire your imagination!

Flavour of Fountains Wednesday 1st July to Monday 31st August

Pride and Prejudice

Daily 20-minute talks at 11am, 12pm, 1pm and 2pm Let one of our guides give you an introduction to the whole estate before you set off to discover it at your own pace. Meet at the Skyline.

Friday 19th June, 7.30pm (gates open 6pm for picnics) Jane Austen’s literary classic gets the full Pantaloons treatment in this hilarious and delightfully innovative new adaptation.

Adult £12.50, child £8.

Pond Dipping

Scottish Dancing

Sunday 5th July and Friday 7th August, 2pm to 3.30pm There’s an extraordinary world waiting to be discovered under the surface of the ponds in the water garden. We’ll provide the nets, identification charts and pots. Booking essential, 01765 643189.

Specialist tour: The Art of the Garden Saturday 18th July and Saturday 1st August, 2pm to 3.30pm Join our guide to hear how the design philosophy in the garden was inspired by the art, politics and fashions of the day. Meet at Porter’s Lodge.

Den Building Wednesday 22nd and Thursday 23rd July, Monday 10th and Tuesday 11th August, 11am and 1pm Use branches and leaves to make the biggest den you’ve ever seen! Booking essential, 01765 643189.

Family Bike Ride Tuesday 28th July and Thursday 13th August, 6pm to 8pm (last entry 7pm) Enjoy a rare chance to cycle around the Water Garden at Studley Royal and the ruins of Fountains Abbey. Enter at Studley Royal.

Sunday 12th July, 2pm to 5 pm Northallerton Caledonian Society dance in the Gardens.

Diverting Dinosaurs Thursday 6th August, 11am to 4pm Large or small, meat-eater or veggie, dinosaurs of all varieties capture every child’s imagination. Dress up for a day of family fun in the Hall and grounds (all indoors if wet).

Adult or child £4.30, under-one-year-olds free.

Treasure Island Friday 14th August, performances at 2pm and 7pm (gates open 12.30pm and 5.30pm for picnics) This unforgettable show from the critically acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company will thrill adventure-seekers of all ages.

Adult £12.50, child £6.

The Magic of the Musicals Saturday 22nd August, 7pm Much-loved songs played by award-winning Leyburn Band. Dress up as your favourite character from the musicals. Homemade puddings on sale. £11, Friends and volunteers £9.

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SUMMER 2015

YORKSHIRE DALES MILLENNIUM TRUST 015242 51002 www.ydmt.org Visit a Dales wildflower hay meadow Various locations, mid to late June With its brightly coloured flowers, frothy haze of grasses, heady scents, and the gentle buzz of pollinating insects, a meadow in full bloom is a delight for all the senses, so don’t miss this seasonal treat!

A century ago vibrant hay meadows were found throughout the country. Sadly only 3% of them remain. Fortunately the Dales is one of the few remaining strongholds of this precious habitat. As well as being special places to visit, and a haven for wildlife, these meadows provide an important snapshot of our cultural heritage.

YDMT is working hard to safeguard our meadows, and we are keen to encourage people to visit them this summer, so we have produced a series of free walk guides for some of the most exceptional ones. You can download the walks, and find out more about our award-winning work, at www. ydmt.org/hay-time.

VENNELL’S RESTAURANT Silver Street, Masham 01765 689000 vennellsrestaurant.co.uk 10th Anniversary Tasting Menu 24th to 27th June This year sees Jon and Laura Vennell celebrating ten years in business, and the accolades keep pouring in – the latest is their appearance in The Observer’s ‘Best 40 Restaurants as Voted

by Chefs’. Jon’s anniversary tasting menu is a mouthwatering demonstration of everything that makes this cosy little restaurant so special.

Booking essential.

Lobster Festival 1st to 4th and 8th to 11th July Lobster is a byword for luxurious eating, and summer is the perfect time to enjoy it.

Vennell’s indulgent four-course Lobster Festival menu centres around a succulent, shell-less lobster thermidor. Booking essential.

Grouse Week 9th to 12th September The grouse season is eagerly anticipated by devotees of field sports and gourmets alike. During Vennell’s Grouse Week Jon will be serving a cleverly designed menu whose highlight will be local grouse, perfectly roasted and accompanied by potato terrine, poached pear, red cabbage, bread sauce and a luscious jus. Booking essential.

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A world of experience PACKAGE HOLIDAYS • TAILOR-MADE ITINERARIES • CRUISES • RAIL FERRIES • FLIGHTS • FAMILY HOLIDAYS • CITY & UK BREAKS • HONEYMOONS SAFARIS • LONG-HAUL HOLIDAYS • AIRPORT HOTELS PARKING & LOUNGES • THEATRE TICKETS

Robert Sturdy, 10 Market Place, Leyburn, DL8 5BG 01969 623486 robert.sturdy@speartravels.net www.speartravels.net/leyburn Other Spear Travels branches in Boroughbridge, Northallerton, Skipton, Helmsley and Stokesley RETAlL AGENTS FOR ATOL HOLDERS - ABTA L8041

Kiplin Hall JACOBEAN HOUSE

Country Seat of Founder of Maryland, USA

“A truly wonderful attraction”

House, Gardens and Tea Room

Open Sunday – Wednesday 10am – 5pm (NB house from 2pm)

Kiplin Hall, nr. Scorton, Richmond, DL10 6AT Tel: 01748 818178 www.kiplinhall.co.uk

SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life | 113

On the market

Our regular round-up of beautiful properties for sale in Yorkshire.

£240,000 28 Rowan Court, Leyburn A well presented modern detached bungalow within a pleasant cul-de-sac location close to the town centre. Entrance hall, inner hall, lounge, kitchen/ dining room, 2 double bedrooms, shower room/wc, garage, driveway, front and rear gardens, gas fired central heating, UPVC double glazing. EER C70.

Contact Norman F Brown 01969 622194 www.normanfbrown.co.uk

£185,000 8 Manor Court, Leyburn A well presented spacious ground floor apartment. Entrance hall, lounge, kitchen/dining room, 2 double bedrooms, en-suite bathroom/wc. En-suite shower room/wc, garage, parking, night storage heating, double glazing. EER D65.

Contact Norman F Brown 01969 622194 www.normanfbrown.co.uk

£220,000 Harker View Cottage, Reeth Spacious well-presented traditional terraced cottage off the village green.

Entrance hall, kitchen/dining room, lounge, utility room, g/f shower room/wc, 3 bedrooms, bathroom/wc, small rear patio, outside store, separate fuel store, night storage heating, upvc double glazing. No forward chain. EER E43.

Contact Norman F Brown 01748 822473 www.normanfbrown.co.uk

£139,950 Wensleydale Avenue, Leyburn A well presented terraced bungalow close to the town centre.

Entrance porch, lounge/diner, kitchen, conservatory, double bedroom, bathroom/wc, garage, driveway, front and rear gardens, gas fired central heating, upvc double glazing. No forward chain EER C70 Contact Norman F Brown 01969 622194 www.normanfbrown.co.uk

£189,950 7 The Busks, Middleham A well proportioned mature semi detached family house enjoying open front and rear aspects. Some modernisation required.

Entrance hall, lounge, dining room, kitchen, utility room, 3 bedrooms, bathroom/wc, south facing rear garden, part electric heating, UPVC double glazing. No forward chain.EER G14.

Contact Norman F Brown 01969 622194 www.normanfbrown.co.uk

£500,000 Windyridge, West Burton A high quality semi detached family house. Entrance porch, lounge, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, garden room, cloakroom/wc, 4 bedrooms, en-suite shower room/wc, bathroom/wc, detached double garage with attached studio/office, driveway, private rear garden, oil fired central heating, UPVC double glazing. No forward chain. EER 50.

Contact Norman F Brown 01969 622194 www.normanfbrown.co.uk

114 | Dales Life | SUMMER 2015

AUSTIN BROOKS

Bempton House, Bempton, East Yorkshire Price guide ÂŁ525,000 Enjoy East Riding coast and country living in this fabulous, versatile, beautifully presented 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 3 reception room, Grade II listed, former farmhouse. Separate bungalow conversion and double storey high barn. Located in the attractive village of Bempton, just over a mile from the coast and the RSPB nature reserve. The main residence dates back to the 18th century and is beautifully maintained and presented throughout to include many original features.

Home Farm, Downholme

Price guide ÂŁ465,000

This stunning, new barn conversion with three reception rooms, four double bedrooms and three bath/shower rooms is located within the desirable Swaledale hamlet just 2.8 miles from Richmond and 5 miles from Leyburn. The property offers 2013sqft of versatile accommodation with attractive, limestone, fossil flooring, ground floor under-floor heating, natural oak doors and sills. Outside are gates to a cobbled forecourt, south facing side and rear gardens, a stone flagged sun terrace with a wrought iron rail and a useful adjoining store.

01677 368412 | sales@austinbrooks.co.uk | www.austinbrooks.co.uk SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life | 115

On the market

Our regular round-up of beautiful properties for sale in Yorkshire.

£500,000 Manor House, Harmby, Leyburn A superb period manor house in a secluded Dales village location. 5 double bedrooms. Wealth of period features. Large garden with parking.

Detached bothy with potential. Stunning views over the Dales. Private and secluded. EPC rating F. Chain free. Viewing by appointment.

Contact Robin Jessop Ltd. on 01969 622800 robinjessop.co.uk

£265,000 Newlands, Worton, Leyburn An immaculate two bedroom detached bungalow situated in a stunning village location overlooking the Dales. EPC rating E. Chain free. Viewing by appointment.

£350,000 & £75,000 Rivermeade, Gammersgill, Leyburn Lot 1: Imposing Grade II listed period property standing in 1/2 acre plot.

Superbly positioned overlooking open countryside. Detached stone-built coach house with potential for a variety of uses. Car parking. Delightful gardens and grounds. Lot 2: 20 acres of grassland, subject to tenancy.

Contact Robin Jessop Ltd. on 01969 622800 robinjessop.co.uk

£250,000 Lyndene, Harmby, Leyburn An immaculate detached bungalow. Spacious two bedroom accommodation. Good sized gardens and garage. Off street parking.

Stunning views over the surrounding countryside. EPC rating D. Chain free. Viewing by appointment.

Contact Robin Jessop Ltd. on 01969 622800 robinjessop.co.uk

£150,000 4 Nuns Close, Richmond A delightful two bedroom cottage. Immaculately presented.

Garden and car parking space. Excellent town centre location.

Currently used as a holiday cottage. ECP rating C. Viewing by appointment.

Contact Robin Jessop Ltd. on 01969 622800 robinjessop.co.uk

£100,000 - £150,000 Castle View, Castle Bolton, Leyburn A delightful two bedroom semi detached cottage for sale by public auction (unless previously sold), on 17th June at 7pm at the Allerton Court Hotel, Northallerton. EPC rating E. Chain free.

Viewing by appointment.

Contact Robin Jessop Ltd. on 01969 622800 robinjessop.co.uk

116 | Dales Life | SUMMER 2015

Contact Robin Jessop Ltd. on 01969 622800 robinjessop.co.uk

C HA R T ER ED S UR V EY ORS • ESTATE AG ENTS • PROPER T Y A UCT I O N E E R S • V A L UE R S • L A N D A G E N T S

Old Hall & Old Hall Cottage | Hunton, Bedale

Thornflatt Cottage | East Harlsey, Northallerton

A magnificent five bedroom period property with a wealth of character and charm. Attached two bedroom cottage.

Delightful gardens and grounds. Fishing rights. Range of traditional farm buildings in a courtyard setting with potential.

8 acres grass land. Superb village location. EPC ratings G & G. Viewing by appointment.

An outstanding country property standing in 4.2 acres land.

Situated in a secluded rural yet highly accessible location. Superb four double bedroom house with spacious and flexible family living accommodation. First class fixtures and fittings. Delightful gardens and grounds. Superb general purpose building. 3 acres grass land. EPC rating E. Viewing by appointment.

£975,000

£695,000

P ROPE R T I E S R E Q U I R E D TO S ATIS F Y DEMAND Contact Tim Gower

St Edmunds & St Edmunds Cottage Crakehall, Bedale

Fairfields Exelby, Bedale

St Edmunds & St Edmund’s Cottage comprises a spacious period four bedroom house with attached two bedroom cottage. Garden and off street parking. EPC Rating E. Chain free.

Viewing by appointment.

A superb residential small holding with 2.6 acres land. Well presented four bedroom detached house. First class range of farm buildings. Two grass paddocks. Gardens and good parking area. EPC rating D. Viewing by appointment.

£350,000

£500,000

Bedale 01677 425950 robinjessop.co.uk

Leyburn 01969 622800 SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life | 117

TAKE YOUR HOME TO AN ENERGY EFFICIENT FUTURE with Bedale Plumbing & Heating Ltd established in 1970

• PANASONIC ACCREDITED INSTALLERS OF AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMPS • GRANT ACCREDITED INSTALLERS OF SPIRA WOOD PELLET BOILERS. • SOLAR THERMAL & SOLAR PV INSTALLATION. • FULL DESIGN AND INSTALLATION.

WE CAN ALSO PROVIDE: Under-floor heating systems.

Un-vented hot water and heating systems.

Multi-fuel Heatstore installation.

Oil storage tank replacements.

System upgrades.

Powerflushing.

Oil boiler replacements.

Natural gas & LPG boiler replacements.

Boiler service and repair.

Plumbing repairs.

Water mains replaced & repaired.

Landlords certificates.

BEDALE PLUMBING & HEATING LTD 12 Coronation Rd, Little Crakehall, Bedale, DL8 1HZ bedaleplumbingandheatingltd@hotmail.co.uk

bedaleplumbingandheatingltd.co.uk

01677 426063 • 07814 036057 118 | Dales Life | SUMMER 2015

Bathroom Suites Design and installation including all joinery, tiling and electrical works.

SWITCH ON TO Bedale Electrical Ltd Welcome to our sister company Bedale Electrical Ltd. We are a family-run business and we will be offering the same reliable service our customers have enjoyed for over 40 years. We are electrical contractors and engineers providing all your electrical needs for both domestic and commercial properties, our experienced team will provide the same friendly and high standard of work we are known for!

• ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION • TESTING & INSPECTION • FAULT FINDING • SECURITY • FIRE ALARMS & EMERGENCY LIGHTING • ELECTRICAL HEATING & CONTROLS • DATA & COMMUNICATION • PAT TESTING

BEDALE ELECTRICAL LTD

12 Coronation Rd, Little Crakehall, Bedale, DL8 1HZ

bedaleelectricalltd@outlook.com

01677 426063 • 07710 741874

SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life | 119

Produce your own electricity and earn money with solar pv panels • Reduce your electricity bill • Tax free return on your investment • Feed in tariff index-linked and guaranteed for 20 years • Use your local installer • No cold calling or salesmen

Domestic • Commercial • Agricultural

For further information please contact DDR Solar Ltd 01969 622 260 www.ddrsolar.co.uk

S

LYNDON HAW Specialists in traditional and contemporary wrought ironwork and woodwork

Your local friendly chartered architects

Designing dreams

RBCARCHITECT

Wrought iron gates • Weather vanes, handrails and balustrades • Quality metal fencing • Specialists in remote control systems • All types of fabrication work undertaken • Repair/refurbishment service Specialists in fitting gates in rising driveways

New build | Extensions | Conversions | Refurbishments

Distance and delivery no object.

Call for a free estimate or on-site quotation

T: 01609 751668 E: hello@rbcarchitect.co.uk

Tel: 01677 450450/450374 07710 899023 The Forge, Finghall, nr Leyburn

Domestic and commercial architectural and planning services

Evolution Business Centre, 6 County Business Park, Darlington Road, Northallerton DL6 2NQ

www.rbcarchitect.co.uk

120 | Dales Life | SUMMER 2015 Dales life_RBC Architect_14.indd 1

23/06/2014 17:57:01

Images courtesy of chequeredchicken.co.uk

LAWYERS IN LOCATIONS YOU LOVE T: 0800 160 10 10 E: info@coles-law.co.uk W: www.coles-law.co.uk Offices also in… York, Thirsk, Yarm, Guisborough, Market Weighton & Beverley

NORMAN F. BROWN

The Gables, Healaugh A spacious detached family house occupying half acre grounds. Entrance porch, hall, sitting room, lounge/dining room, sun room, kitchen/breakfast room, ground floor shower room/wc, 3 double bedrooms, en-suite shower room/wc, bathroom/ wc, attached garage, boiler room, office, ample parking, large private mature garden, biomass wood pellet ch, double glazing. EER E41. £425,000 Richmond office

7 The Coach House, Fremington A deceptively spacious well presented Grade II listed terraced cottage set within an attractive courtyard. Entrance hall, lounge, kitchen/dining room, 4 double bedrooms, en-suite shower room/wc, bathroom/wc, garage, parking, small rear garden, oil fired central heating, part double glazing. EER N/A. £295,000 Richmond office

CH NO AI N

CH NO AI N

Charted surveyors • Estate Agents • Lettings Selling and letting property since 1967

East Stone Leigh A well presented modernised semi detached cottage within the heart of Wensleydale.

Entrance hall, kitchen/dining room, lounge, 2 double bedrooms, bathroom/wc, patio, electric heating, near full UPVC double glazing.

All contents available by separate negotiation.

EER F28. £165,000

Leyburn office

14 Queens Road, Richmond • 01748 822473 6 Bridge Street, Bedale • 01677 422282 25 Market Place, Leyburn • 01969 622194 SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life | 121

Are you an older driver?

The Wensleydale House Doctor Est. 1999

Home Improvement Specialist • Interior & Exterior Painting • Interior Decorating • Tiling • Plumbing • Plastering • Flooring (including laminate) • Kitchens and bathrooms fitted

Book now for your Summer exterior painting and internal decorating No job too small Friendly and reliable service

Refreshing Your Skills If you have a licence to drive, and are fit to drive, keep driving!

Try not to become over-dependent on your partner’s driving because as traffic conditions change it can be very hard to take up driving again after several years off. It’s better to stay in practice on the roads you frequently use.

Refreshing your skills really can make all the difference to your confidence, building on your experience with driving tips, techniques and advice.

95 Alive are currently offering a free 1-hour refresher drive for drivers over 50 with an approved driving instructor. For more information email 95alive@northyorks.gov.uk, call 01609 798120, or visit our website www.roadwise.co.uk This offer is only available to North Yorkshire residents 122 | Dales Life | SUMMER 2015

Tel: 01677 450810 Mobile: 07715 682966 Hunton, Bedale, North Yorkshire

S

LYNDON HAW Specialists in traditional and contemporary wrought ironwork and woodwork

Wood gates • Traditional hardwood and softwood doors Quality fencing • Specialists in remote control gate systems • All types of fabrication work undertaken Repair/refurbishment service to existing gates Specialists in fitting gates in rising driveways

Distance and delivery no object.

Call for a free estimate or on-site quotation

Tel: 01677 450450/450374 07710 899023 The Forge, Finghall, nr Leyburn

Dales Dogwash

The Groom Room Much more than just bathtime

THE COMPLETE DOG GROOMING SERVICE

• Pick up and delivery available • Specialised hand stripping • Health checks

• One to one attention • Claw clipping • Garden for comfort breaks • Fully insured

Call Sandra Heeney

01969 623653 / 07596 234375 4 Hawthorne Close, Leyburn DL8 5SN sandra1313@talktalk.net

ction u r t s n i e t a v i r P r and guiding fo

s, l il k s g in k l a w l il h paddle sport and nordic walking Come and explore

with us!

Enjoy a day out in and around the beautiful Yorkshire Dales & Moors. From guided walks, navigation classes and canoe training to our paddle & picnic.

www.rivermountainexperience.com Tel: 01677 426112

QUALITY HOME INSURANCE CAN’T BE RUSHED Because time spent on a real conversation allows us to appreciate the finer details.

Call 01765 604 254 for a quote or pop in NFU Mutual, Canalside House, 7 Charter Road, Ripon, North Yorkshire HG4 1AJ. ripon@nfumutual.co.uk

NFU Mutual is The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited (No. 111982). Registered in England. Registered Office: Tiddington Road, Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire CV37 7BJ. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. A member of the Association of British Insurers. For security and training purposes, telephone calls may be recorded and monitored.

SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life | 123

Collect your copy of Dales Life from: Campbells of Leyburn Milners of Leyburn The Co-Op Masham The Black Sheep Masham CB Furnishings Northallerton Hampsteads Northallerton The Mulberry Bush Hawes New Jersey Bedale Telephone: 01904 629295 email: sue@daleslife.com www.daleslife.com 124 | Dales Life | SUMMER 2015

Premiere Care

North East Ltd.

We are a Leyburn-based agency offering high quality care services to our Clients.

Our experienced team supports the various needs of vulnerable people to remain as independent as possible in their home. We provide hourly, day/night and live-in-care.

Testimonial

’Exceedingly high quality ladies, honest, caring and totally trustworthy’ Premiere Care has been awarded by the CQC the highest possible rating on their last inspection in 2009 which confirms the quality of service that we supply.

For an information pack please contact: Premiere Care (NE) Ltd Thornborough Hall, Leyburn DL8 5AB 01969 622 499 www.premiere-care.co.uk

Hillcrest Care Home Dedicated to quality care • Established owners • Experienced management team • Low staff turnover • Pleasant surroundings • Nutritional, attractive home cooked quality meals • Care available - long stay, day care, respite (dependent upon availability)

Hillcrest has a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It enjoys an enviable reputation within the community and is totally compliant with CQC. To experience the Home and the expertise of the local management team, why not call in and view for yourself the level of care being offered to the Residents.

Call Hillcrest’s manager Nicola Cooper to arrange a visit at a time to suit you on 01748 834444 or email hillcrest@sirtin.com

Hillcrest, Byng Road, Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire, DL9 4DW SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life | 125

Ready when you are‌

MAIN AGENTS FOR SUZUKI ATVs JW4X4 are pleased to announce that we are now Suzuki ATV dealers and carry the full range. From the child-friendly junior quad bike to the awesome King Quad, we will have something to match your needs.

A Suzuki quad bike is the ideal vehicle for a multitude of agricultural tasks as well as off-road trekking and leisure.

And no matter what make or model, when you bring your ATV in for service or repairs, we will give you a courtesy vehicle to ensure your business continues to run smoothly.

Please contact us for more information or to arrange a demonstration.

Discovery House, Standard Way Industrial Estate, Northallerton DL6 2XA Tel: 01609 772121 Email: info@jw4x4.co.uk www.jw4x4.co.uk 126 | Dales Life | SUMMER 2015

TO DINE FOR Great places to eat and stay in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales.

THE WHITE BEAR The White Bear is situated in the beautiful market town of Masham. A team of talented chefs use locally sourced ingredients to create delicious, seasonal dishes. Enjoy your meal in the charming dining room or the traditional bar; open fires create a cosy atmosphere throughout. An extensive wine list complements the menu. Accommodation is available in fourteen individually designed rooms all en suite.

T: 01765 689319 thewhitebearhotel.co.uk

HENDERSONS BAR & RESTAURANT Set in the idyllic riverside surroundings of Westholme Estate in Bishopdale near Aysgarth, Hendersons is a bright, stylish, relaxed bar and bistro-style restaurant with a contemporary feel.

Our talented chef has created a mouthwatering seasonal menu using fresh local and seasonal produce. The restaurant is open all day for lunch, light bites and beverages. Dinner 5.30pm to 8.45pm every day except Tuesday. Sunday lunch 12–4pm.

THE CORNER CUPBOARD

T: 01969 663268 westholme-estate.co.uk

The Corner Cupboard at Birdforth, near Easingwold, is a licensed day-time restaurant serving mouthwatering scones and tea cakes, light lunches and more substantial meals, all home-made using top-quality local produce. Peak lunch times can be busy, so advance booking is advisable. Having eaten your fill, there’s the added bonus of a charming shop carrying a beguiling selection of gifts, jewellery and home furnishings.

THE BLACK SHEEP BREWERY

T: 01845 501495 thecornercupboard.co.uk

SWINTON PARK HOTEL An elegant, 30-bedroom luxury castle hotel. With four Red Stars (Inspectors’ Choice) and three Rosettes awarded by the AA for excellent facilities, this is one of the most highly rated hotels in Yorkshire. Award-winning cuisine is served in the sumptuously furnished dining room, using seasonal produce sourced from the hotel’s four-acre walled garden and surrounding estate.

T: 01765 680900 swintonpark.com

THE SANDPIPER INN Enjoy Jonathan Harrison’s unique cuisine in the traditional surroundings of the Sandpiper Inn, Leyburn. Modern British food prepared using only the finest ingredients. Fine wines, real ales and friendly service. Accommodation is available.

The Black Sheep Brewery Visitor Centre – situated in Masham, is the ideal place for a great day or evening out. You can take a tour of the Brewery, have a meal in the Bistro, and taste their award-winning beers at the ‘Baa…r’. You can also buy lots of goodies from the well-stocked Sheepy Shop. It offers a ‘ewenique’ venue for corporate entertaining, product launches, parties and weddings.

T: 01765 680101 blacksheepbrewery.com

YOREBRIDGE HOUSE Summer is the perfect time to visit Yorebridge House, nestled in the heart of Wensleydale. We offer luxurious boutique rooms with fine dining in an informal atmosphere and beautiful views across the Dales. Boasting 5 Gold Stars, 3 Rosettes for our restaurant and menu created by Dan Shotton and the Inspectors’ Choice Award from the AA Hotels.

The lounge and bar areas offer sumptuous interiors, relaxed comfy seating and an open fire. The menu includes local delights such as Whitby Crab with Quail Egg, Pickled Mouli & Apple, Wensleydale Lamb with Confit, Lamb Shoulder, Wild Garlic & Anchovies followed by Rhubarb & Custard, a mix of Crème Brûlée & Poached Yorkshire Rhubarb.

T: 01969 652060 yorebridgehouse.co.uk

T: 01969 622206 sandpiperinn.co.uk

SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life | 127

THE BURGOYNE HOTEL

THE BLACK LION

Overlooking Reeth village green, The Burgoyne Hotel is a luxurious home-from-home set in an elegant Georgian mansion. It has eight spacious and beautifully appointed rooms — the panoramic views from some of them have to be seen to be believed. There’s an emphasis on friendly service and fine food, with generous breakfasts and a fourcourse dinner menu focusing on fresh local produce sourced from the Dales and the Yorkshire coast.

Now under new ownership, The Black Lion is a friendly bar and bistro on Thirsk’s cobbled marketplace. It offers exciting and varied lunch and dinner menus based around seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, including fresh fish from Hodgsons of Hartlepool, prime meats from R & J Butchers and delicious Brymor ice cream. With excellent service, a well stocked bar and a wide ranging wine list from Yorkshire Vintners, it’s a great choice for a luscious lunch or memorable evening meal.

T: 01748 884292 theburgoyne.co.uk

THE QUEEN’S HEAD The Queen’s Head is a charming, characteristic country inn dating from the 1700s, set in the attractive village of Finghall, near Leyburn. It offers comfortable modern accommodation and a traditional, cosy bar. Owner and head chef Ian Vipond has devised a fresh, new menu for the restaurant, based around tasty local and seasonal produce.

Traditional bar snacks are also available. With original oak beams and a dining room that looks out over the woods, The Queen’s Head combines great food with a genuinely warm welcome.

T: 01677 450259 queensfinghall.co.uk

THE FREEMASONS ARMS The recently refurbished Freemasons Arms at Nosterfield is set to remain very much a charming, characteristic country inn, offering a traditional, cosy bar and restaurant. With an innovative head chef and exciting new menus based around fresh local produce, there’s something here to please everyone. Diners can choose from pub classics with a twist, daily specials and Chef’s own signature dishes, exactingly cooked and served by a friendly front-of-house team.

T: 01677 470548 thefreemasonsarms.co.uk

STONE HOUSE HOTEL Stone House Hotel is an elegant, country residence dating from 1908. It is just a short drive from the bustling market town of Hawes. With its cosy bar, library-cum-billiard room and panelled Oak Room, Stone House makes a great place to relax. Enjoy delicious, locally sourced traditional food from breakfast through to dinner, and choose from an extensive list of fine wines. There are three spacious and romantic four-poster suites, and five groundfloor conservatory bedrooms that open directly onto the lawns, popular with dog owners and guests who aren’t keen on stairs.

T: 01969 667571 stonehousehotel.co.uk

128 | Dales Life | SUMMER 2015

T: 01845 574302 blacklionthirsk.co.uk

FAIRHURSTS BISTRO Fairhursts Bistro is one of the most exciting eating and drinking places to open recently in Wensleydale. Situated in Middleham Key Centre, it has an intimate, relaxed atmosphere and a rustic yet modern interior. It offers a unique interpretation of classic dishes, using local produce where possible, and its themed nights feature cuisines from all over the world. There is private access from the car park, and the bistro is open Thursday–Saturday evenings. Middleham Key Centre, Park Lane, Middleham, DL8 4RA

T: 01969 624668 fairhursts.co.uk

VENNELL’S RESTAURANT Now in its tenth year, Jon Vennell’s cooking continues to impress with many major accolades and awards under his belt. Jon’s wife, Laura, is front of house and has a relaxed, friendly approach which is probably why customers keep coming back to sample the seasonally changing menu. Even Claudia Blake gave a flawless review. Vennell’s holds many events throughout the year. See the website for further details.

T: 01765 689000 vennellsrestaurant.co.uk

THE SADDLE ROOM RESTAURANT New to the Dales is The Saddle Room Restaurant situated in the heart of Coverdale on the Tupgill Park Estate near Leyburn. Grand honest food cooked to perfection using very local suppliers and prepared by our award-winning chef Tom Morrell.

Accommodation available on the estate whether it be a one-night-stay or longer in our beautifully appointed cottages. For that special event we can cater up to 350 people on the grounds of Tupgill Park Estate or up to 50 in our function room ‘The Hayloft’. Our wine cellar has been beautifully restored and is the ideal setting for a private dinner.

T: 01969 640596 thesaddleroom.co.uk

SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life | 129

What’s the best thing about living in Yorkshire?

There is beauty around every corner.

And if you couldn’t live in Yorkshire, where would you like to be?

Anywhere with my family, and preferably with historic buildings, or miles of white sand and clear blue waters.

Who inspires you and why?

© David Armitage

MY YORKSHIRE

RODNEY TENNANT

Chairman of Tennants Auctioneers in Leyburn Where were you born?

In Middleham, just a stone’s throw from Leyburn.

What is your favourite Yorkshire town?

Same answer: Middleham!

OK, so it’s home and maybe I’m biased, but with Richard III’s castle, the church, the river and more, it’s packed with history and character, and idyllically situated between Coverdale and Wensleydale.

Tell us your idea of a great day out.

As part of my professional life I spend a lot of time out on the road, visiting clients all over the country. A ride out on a beautiful sunny day anywhere in Yorkshire, discovering some hidden corner that I haven’t visited before, always makes for a special day out.

130 | Dales Life | SUMMER 2015

And your favourite meal?

Roast beef and Yorkshire puddings!

What would you say are your most prized possessions?

In my line of business you quickly learn not to covet things. As the saying goes, ‘you come in with nothing and go out with nothing’.

So to answer your question: good health and an old pair of slippers.

Although they have passed away, I always take inspiration from my parents – from the way they both conducted the balance between family life and the business, and the love and care they showed in both.

most prized possessions? “good health and an old pair of slippers” What – apart from your work – is your greatest achievement?

Remembering good advice given to me by wise people.

How do you relax?

I was going to take up golf, but I found it so frustrating that going back to work was more relaxing!

Eccles Heddon LLP Solicitors

For your legal ease For help and legal advice call Bedale 01677 422422 Ripon 01765 601717 Thirsk 01845 522324 www.eccles-heddon.co.uk

Family Law (Divorce, Family & Children) Property Law (Residential & Commercial) Business Advice Employment Law Wills, Probate and Family Trusts Estate Planning Lasting Powers of Attorney Advising the Elderly Farming & Agriculture Dispute Resolution

FAMILY LAW CLINIC We also run a family law clinic once a week at our Bedale and Ripon offices.

Please telephone Jane Midgley at Bedale or Liz Kidd at Ripon to book a FREE 30-minute consultation.

SUMMER 2015 | Dales Life | 131

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM HOLME DESIGN LIMITED, UNIT 1, THE CRAFT YARD, THE STATION, BEDALE, NORTH YORKSHIRE DL8 1AW CALL 01677 424669 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO ARRANGE A FREE DESIGN CONSULTATION WWW.HOLMEDESIGN.COM