Rutland Pride March 2017

PRIDE

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RUTLAND

PRIDE

RUTLAND

LOCAL FOOD INCLUDING QUALITY DINING AT CORBY GLEN’S WOODHOUSE ARMS...

MARCH 2017

Galleries & Artists

A roundup of Rutland’s fine art

A Postcard from Vermont

Rutland’s twin town in America

Making Beautiful Music

40 years of Rutland Sinfonia

High Society Images Burn’s Night in Barnsdale

£4.50

MACRH

2017

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- MARCH 2017 -

welcome letter Julian Wilkinson

Managing Director

Ian Bagley

Production Director

Welcome to an edition of Pride that introduces not just a new look, but a new, premium feel too.

We’re aiming to reflect the continued success and growth of both this, our Rutland edition, and our sister magazine in Lincolnshire as well.

From this month we’ll bring not just words and images to our readers but an element of tactile satisfaction too, with a luxurious feel to our new pages, printed on what’s known in the industry as bond stock.

We know that our magazines remain on the coffee tables of the county’s best properties for several months. That’s why we’ve worked hard to source the best quality paper possible.

Zoie Wilkinson

Advertising Director

Our new magazines are designed to present our content as well as possible and to give a really satisfying feel in your hands as you’re reading them. They’ll also cope well with being picked up and put down, over and over again, without becoming tatty!

Our best wishes for a wonderful month!

Emily Brown

Sales Director

s i v a D b o R Editorial Director, Pride Magazines

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march CONTENTS

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PROPERTIES A selection of some of the best properties curently on the market.

FEATURES 18 26

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NEWS Each month, we bring you a round up of the county’s good news stories.

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ART The county is especially lucky to benefit from the wealth of local art galleries, so we have a round up.

SINFONIA Rutland Sinfonia Orchestra’s Music Director Paul Hilliam tells us about the upcoming 40th anniversary for the group.

VERMONT All the way from Vermont in the US, Rutland’s County Sheriff is coming to visit their twin county.

SUE PERKINS At De Montfort Hall in Leicester kicks off their 2017 calendar of shows, Sue Perkins will be visiting.

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WHAT’S ON From theatre productions, to live music, theatre to comedy, each month we provide a roundup of the county’s best live events.

FOOD & DRINK 48 52 56 63

WOODHOUSE ARMS Corby Glen’s finest dining facility provided mouthwatering starters, main courses and desserts during our visit this month.

SAMPLE DISHES Our featured dishes this month show us what’s on the butcher’s block, with meaty mains.

RECIPES Delicious spring dishes in your own home with these superb recipes featuring local ingredients.

WINE A focus on Australian reds courtesy of our wine writer Harish.

HOMES & GARDENS 64

CONTEMPORARY STYLE A very modern property in Whissendine.

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WELCOME HOME Churchgate Court is a beautifully bright home in the village of Braunston.

INTERIORS Moir Wade has a stunning portfolio of incredible interiors done to a high standard.

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QKS Stamford’s QKS Kitchens has 35 years experience and a vast range.

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FLOWERS 2017 inspiration to

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SOFT FURNISHINGS Homes are graced with 50 shades of blue on retro prints and colourful textures.

brighten your garden up.

GARDEN DESIGN David Greaves shows us how he can transform your garden.

102 NATURE Wildlife in March.

FASHION & BEAUTY

104 WEDDINGS Celebrating James and Kelly’s wedding at Barton Hall.

109 FASHION Floor length stunning 118

dresses from Red Carpet Ready.

GLASSES The Stamford Eye Clinic show off its range of eyewear.

THE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR HIGH QUALITY HOMES Our latest edition is available to read right now, free, at www.pridemagazines.co.uk...

LEGAL DISCLAIMER

By supplying editorial or advertising copy to Lincolnshire Pride you accept in full the terms and conditions which can be found online at pridemagazines.co.uk.

In the event of an advert or editorial being published incorrectly, where Pride Magazines Ltd admits fault, we will include an advert of equivalent size, or equivalent sized editorial, free of charge to be used in a future edition, at our discretion.

This gesture is accepted as full compensation for the error(s) with no refunds available.

Selected images in our content may be sourced from www.shutterstock.com.

Pride Magazines Ltd., Elm Grange Studios, East Heckington, Boston, Lincs PE20 3QF

Tel: 01529 469977 Fax: 01529 469978

THE PRIDE TEAM

Managing Director: Julian Wilkinson.

Production Director: Ian Bagley.

Advertising Director: Zoie Wilkinson.

Sales Director: Emily Brown.

Editorial Director: Rob Davis.

Features Editor: Tilly Wilkinson.

Customer Care Manager: Mandy Bray.

Distribution: Joe Proctor. IT: Ryan Potter.

Office Manager: Sue Bannister.

Customer Account Managers: Lauren Chambers, Nicola Smith.

Sales Manager: Roberta Hall.

Sales Executives: Sian Jarratt, Carissa Clay, Hayley Scott, Sarah Allen, Aileen Perolio-Jones and Cassy Ayton.

www.pridemagazines.co.uk | enquiries@pridemagazines.co.uk

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County News Full Steam Ahead for Nene Valley Railway Station...

Nene Valley Railway Station will be celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, and with a full exciting calendar of events, they’re going full steam ahead

On 1st June the Nene Valley Railway celebrates 40 years since it began steaming.

A single day isn’t enough to celebrate the four decades of railway preservation at Nene Valley, so members of the railway have put together a remarkable year long program of events to offer everybody the chance to celebrate with them.

The first special event to be confirmed will be held on the 25th and 26th February.

This marks the withdrawal from service of the amazing Bulleid designed Express passenger Locomotives. Two of these enormous trains will be coming together for the first time.

Catmose College Students receive a special invite from the BBC’s Richard Murrell...

Visiting Catmose earlier in the year to talk about pupil’s future careers, Richard Murrell, BBC World News Presenter and BAFTA member, was so impressed by the Media Team’s professionalism, that he invited them all to BBC’s Broadcasting House.

The four students who visited were given a full tour, visiting Radio One’s studio, the Live Lounge, as well as the green screen used for presenting the 5pm news bulletin. The students felt they had a real insight on the world of reporting.

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An Outstanding Quality of Care at Home Instead...

Home Instead, covering Rutland, Corby and Market Harborough has just won an ‘outstanding’ award from the Care Quality Commission...

‘92 Squadron’ is fresh from an extended rebuild at the railway only gaining its certificate to run in January this year.

92 as it is fondly known will be teamed with ‘Sir Keith Park’ visiting the Nene Valley Railway for the first time ever.

The good news for spectators, is that the fares for the event will be no different from any standard steaming weekend, which is £16 for adults, £13 for seniors, and £8 for children.

This isn’t an event just for trainspotters; take the grand children along to view the enormous locomotives and support the local conservation groups in doing so. n www.nvr.org.uk for more info.

An outstanding mum-of-three has officially put the care into caring for the elderly with the help of a team that’s tirelessly devoted to providing dignified support for seniors so they can stay in their own homes.

Gail Devereux-Batchelor started Home Instead Senior Care five years ago, covering Market Harborough, Corby & Rutland.

Now the care company has been officially rated ‘Outstanding’ by the health and social care regulator, the Care Quality Commission (CQC), receiving the highest ranking possible in its new ‘Ofsted-style’ system.

“I’m proud to dedicate this Outstanding rating to my team who make this result possible. I couldn’t have made my dream of dignified care true without their tireless devotion,” says Gail.

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Send your press releases and county news to: Features Editor via tilly@pridemagazines.co.uk.

A British Empire Award for our local British Hero Angie Angie Humphreys from Oakham says she was shocked to hear the news that she had been awarded the British Empire medal for her services to Oakham Angie Humphreys who is a grandmother of two, was recently awarded the British Empire Award for her services to the local community.

Being a treasurer and cub scout leader in the town for many years, and co-founding Oakham’s Twinning Association alongside her husband Francis, her work has finally been recognised.

She was also the personal assistant to hotelier Tim Hart, n Billingborough Parish School recently celebrated its community fund grant on their Victorian-themed Day. They’ve now secured new climbing frame equipment for its village playing field. n Bourne’s Bowthorpe Oak was crowned fifth across the country on the quest to find England’s ‘Tree of the Year.’

The tree will receive a £500 grant in recognition of its success in the awards.

n Rutland’s Calendar 2017 has just been released by photographer Richard Adams, a keen photography enthusiastic. The calendar showcases the very best of what Rutland has to offer from the Rutland County Show to local churches.

the co-founder of the Knit and Natter Club, a member of Oakham’s WI, a helper at Oakham’s Knight School, and a regular fundraiser for the Rutland branch of the Royal Air Forces Association. She’s involved with Oakham in Bloom.

Opportunities available for volunteers to welcome visitors through Peterborough Cathedral’s doors...

Fancy doing something new? Why not volunteer to become a Peterborough Cathedral ‘welcomer?’

All of Angie’s work has finally been recognised, and she says it has been an absolute pleasure to work with the various groups throughout Oakham. n Oakham’s Brooke Hill Academy primary students have been impressing a large audience recently with their violin skills. Some have only been learning for a term and they’re already able to play tunes on the instrument.

n Birdfair 2016 has recently announced that they managed to raise an enormous £350,000 for various bird conservation programmes.

n Uppingham’s Richard Jeffs has recently spotted a nightjar in his garden. This is the first ever sighting of the bird in the past two years.

Richard isn’t a twitcher, but he feeds the birds in his garden and was fairly certain of the breed. After a quick check in his bird book, it was confirmed!

Peterborough Cathedral is looking for volunteers who would like to join its team of welcomers.

Welcomers are often the first person visitors speak to on arrival at the Cathedral and they have a vital role in being a friendly face, sharing information, answering questions and understanding the needs of visitors.

In view of the multi-national nature of the Cathedral’s visitors, volunteers who speak another language as well as English would be especially welcome.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for anyone who is enthusiastic

about the Cathedral and loves meeting new people, but who is also patient and good at face to face communication,” said Lisa Foulkes-Arnold, the Cathedral’s Volunteer Development Manager.

“It could also be a great way for someone who is new to the UK to get involved in the life of the city.”

Volunteer welcomers don’t have to have a Christian faith themselves, but they should be happy to present the Cathedral’s worship and ministry to visitors in a positive light. n For more information about the role, please visit the Cathedral’s website www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk.

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BRYNTON HOUSE, NORTHORPE, PE10 0HJ

£825,000

BRYNTON HOUSE IS A CHARACTERFUL YET SPACIOUS FAMILY HOME SET IN APPROXIMATELY 0.46 ACRES OF GARDENS. THE ORIGINAL PROPERTY DATES BACK TO THE 1820’S AND HAS OVER THE YEARS BEEN EXTENDED AND REFURBISHED THROUGHOUT BY THE PRESENT OWNERS TO CREATE A WELCOMING, TRADITIONAL HOME 4

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Fine & Country 2 St. Mary’s Street, Stamford, Lincs PE9 2DE Telephone: (01780) 750200 Email: stamford@fineandcounty.com www.fineandcountry.com

EPC Rating: E.

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THE PEREGRIN, STOCKEN HALL, RUTLAND, LE15 7RY

£219,950

THE PEREGRIN IS A DELIGHTFUL PERIOD APARTMENT PROPERTY, LOCATED ON THE GROUND AND FIRST FLOOR OF STOCKEN HALL, AN HISTORIC GRADE II* LISTED MANSION SET IN ROLLING RUTLAND COUNTRYSIDE. WITH ITS IMPRESSIVE FAÇADE, THE HALL DATES FROM THE SEVENTEENTH CENTURY AND HAS BEEN HOME TO MANY PRESTIGIOUS LOCAL FAMILIES 1

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EPC Rating: Exempt.

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THE PADDOCKS, HOLBEACH ST JOHNS, PE12 8SQ

£650,000

THE PADDOCKS IS SITUATED IN THE SOUTH LINCOLNSHIRE FENS, A QUIET RURAL LOCATION CLOSE TO THE TOWN OF HOLBEACH WITH EASY ACCESS TO SPALDING AND KINGS LYNN. THE PROPERTY BENEFITS FROM FLEXIBLE LIVING ACCOMMODATION, WITH THE ADDITION OF A SPACIOUS SELF-CONTAINED TWO BEDROOM ANNEX ATTACHED TO THE MAIN FEATURE BUNGALOW 5

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EPC Rating: D.

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SUNDIAL COTTAGE, EXTON

A wonderful grade II listed property sympathetically extended and modernised throughout, located on a large plot in the heart of a sought after Rutland village.

GUIDE PRICE £975,000

• Kitchen Breakfast Room

• Entertainment Room

• Family Room

• Office

• Reception Room

• Master Bedroom & En-suite

• Study

• Three More Double Bedrooms

• Music Room

• Bathroom

• Sitting Room

• Shower Room

• Utility

• Grade II Listed

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facebook.com/struttandparker twitter.com/struttandparker

struttandparker.com

3 Brookdale, Great Easton

A superb family home in a thriving Leicestershire village

Guide Price ÂŁ665,000

Kitchen Breakfast room | Sitting room | Dining room Study | Principal bedroom with ensuite | 3 further bedrooms (1 ensuite) | Family bathroom | 2nd floor games room Double garage | Carport | Private garden

Market Harborough 01858 897650 sally.harrison@struttandparker.com

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ASHWELL Guide Price £2.10million A very fine, substantial Grade II Listed Georgian Country House with 2.2. A gardens and grounds and detached 3-bedroom Bungalow set on the edge of the village. Elegantly proportioned accommodation has recently undergone an extensive refurbishment programme but retains a wealth of original features. 4 Reception Rooms, Kitchen, Cloakroom, Utility, Cellars, 7 Bedrooms, 4 Bathrooms, Playroom, Store Room. Outside: Coach House with Stables, Tack Room, Garaging, Summer House, heated Swimming Pool. EPC Exempt.

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LANGHAM

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WHISSEINDINE

£845,000

Stunning individually created home beautifully appointed with bespoke fittings and providing spacious accommodation in a very private sought-after village location. The accommodation in brief: GROUND FLOOR: Entrance Vestibule, Reception Hall, Cloakroom, Lounge, Living/Dining Kitchen, Utility; FIRST FLOOR: 4 dbl Bedrooms, 2 with en-suites, Family Bathroom. OUTSIDE: dbl Garage, ample parking, an enclosed Play/Pet Area and a private south-facing garden to the rear.

Energy Rating: E.

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£675,000

EMPINGHAM

£595,000

An impressive modern detached family home with high specification fixtures and fittings throughout located on the outskirts of the popular Rutland village enjoying pleasant rural views to front. The property provides comfortable and well-proportioned living accommodation. 3 Reception Rooms, Kitchen/Diner, Utility, Clkrm/WC, 4 Bedrooms, 2 with en-suites, Family Bathroom; dbl Garage, ample Parking, front & rear Gardens. Energy Rating: C.

A charming stone built detached family home offering well-presented and flexible character accommodation in a sought after Rutland Water village. The accommodation briefly comprises: GROUND FLOOR: Entrance Hall, Breakfast Kitchen, Inner Hall, Dining Room, Sitting Room, Snug, Bedroom 4, Shower Room, Study, Cellar; FIRST FLOOR: 3 Bedrooms, Bathroom. OUTSIDE: detached Garage, good sized Gardens. EPC Exempt.

SOMERBY

SOMERBY Offers Over £500,000 Substantial stone-built period house situated a short distance from the village church and providing spacious four-double-bedroom accommodation set over three levels with a wealth of character features. 3 Reception Rooms, Breakfast Kitchen, Utility, Cloakroom/WC, Workshop, Cellar, 4 dbl Bedrooms, Bathroom, Shower Room, Games Room. Single Garage, parking, gardens.

Energy Rating: F.

£595,000

A beautiful former Georgian Farmhouse extended and refurbished throughout to the highest of standards. The property offers tastefully presented family accommodation with an array of character features and is located in the heart of this sought-after Leicestershire village.

3 Reception Rooms, country Kitchen/Diner, Utility, Clkrm/WC, 5 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms.

Dbl Garage, private south-facing Garden. Energy Rating: E.

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The Old School Langham – Guide Price £325,000

Situated in a prominent position within the village this former school house is believe to date back to the 1840's and built by the Earl of Gainsborough. Converted some years ago the property is now in need of updating & modernisation but does offer good size rooms and attractive features. The accommodation briefly comprising of entrance porch/hall, 3 reception rooms included an impressive principal sitting room with high ceilings and cross beams, kitchen breakfast, 4 bedrooms with 4 piece bathroom & separate cloakroom. The property also has twin garaging and two brick stores.

Easton on the Hill – £427,500

Situated in a small enclave of only 5 stone built properties and offered with NO CHAIN this spacious home is very deceptive from the front. Ideal for the growing family and those who like to entertain having the sitting room, dining room & comprehensively fitted kitchen breakfast room all to the back with French doors out onto the southerly aspect, cloackroom/utility. Master bedroom with built in wardrobes and ensuite shower room, 4 further good sized bedrooms with family bathroom & further separate shower room. Gas central heating and double glazing throughout. Southerly aspect enclosed gardens with single garage and parking.

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To view and photographs from the event visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk

Burns Night Supper At Barnsdale Lodge Hotel, Exton...

Fair fa' your honest, sonsie face, Great chieftain o the puddi’-race! Barnsdale Lodge in Exton once again held its Burns Night Supper last month. The event included a four course supper and a traditional piper, piping in the haggis.

The hotel has over 250 years of history and is a former farmhouse comprising 46 bedrooms and offering quality dining, with Executive Head Chef David Bukowicki taking over the kitchen in 2016. n For more information on Barnsdale Lodge call 01572 724678, www.barnsdalelodge.co.uk.

Feature your event in our magazine.

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Call 01529 469977 and speak to our Events Desk...

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View photographs from this event online.

Visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk.

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Rutland’s

FINE ART

GALLERIES

There’s something truly mesmerising about art.

The county has a number of prestigious galleries and antique shops for you to discover really beautiful works of art, from 19th century impressionism to more contemporary styles, with prices from £20 to £20,000...

Rutlanders are keen collectors in artwork and antiques. With a roundup of seven local independent art galleries and collectors of antiques - to highlight just a few - business is booming.

We’ve a selection of the local galleries’ favourite works, from the Portrait of a Lady by John Lewis at Nigel Rhodes Fine Art Gallery, to John Piper’s Five Gates of London at the Goldmark Gallery.

If you’re a keen historian, collecting art and antiques may be right up your street, with each painting telling a story and highlighting a moment in the artist’s usually eventful life....

A Study of Flowers,

by Hippolyte Delanoy

Hippolyte Pierre Delanoy (1849 - 1899) was born in Glasgow of French parents, brother to painter Jacques Delanoy. He was noted for his paintings of flowers, fruits and still lifes, interior and genre subjects.

In 1877, the San Francisco Art Gallery held an auction of French paintings including this oil on canvas. It’s at Nigel Rhodes’s gallery for £10,954.

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- RUTLAND’S FINE ART GALLERIES -

Nigel Rhodes Fine Art

THE PORTRAIT OF A LADY COULD BE OF PEG WOFFINGTON, IRISH ACTRESS...

The art displayed on this page are all from Nigel Rhodes Fine Art Gallery in Stamford.

To the left you’ll see The Portrait of a Lady by John Lewis (1739 - 1769). The oil on canvas is housed in a gold leaf frame at the gallery.

The artist established himself as a scene painter in the theatre. The portrait is possibly of Peg Woffington, a well-known Irish actress in the Georgian era. There is a similar portrait of Peg Woffington by John Lewis hanging in the National Portrait Gallery in London. Whoever the lady is, the detail in the dress is simply breathtaking.

“DE HOOG PORTRAYED REAL COUNTRY LIFE, SHOWING PEOPLE HOW HARSH IT COULD BE FOR DUTCH PEOPLE...”

Above to the left is Domesticity by Bernard de Hoog (1867 - 1943). The oil on canvas has been in a private collection for many years and is new to the market. De Hoog portrayed real country life, and how harsh it could be for dutch people, as opposed to romantic notions of country cottages, £26,500.

With over 30 years experience working for and on behalf of private clients, and with access to many private collections and sales, Nigel Rhodes has an established reputation for an expert eye, professionalism facilitating what can be an overwhelming experience in the world of collecting, buying and selling. Nigel Rhodes Fine Art offers a variety of services, with a Gallery carrying a range of stock, value and investment advice, framing and restoration.

While our interior design service matches the best in interiors with very fine artworks and antiques.

Our discretion and appreciation for clients’ privacy is paramount.

Above to the right is Cappriccio by Claude Lorrain (1604 - 1682). He was an expensive and commissioned artist, and the above painting has many different versions where figures and ships come and go from the Embarkation of the Queen of Sheba, to Seaport at Sunset, £16,500.

There is also an antique French clock above; a selection of antiques are sold at the gallery.

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The Goldmark Gallery is a family business, and has been selling art, sculpture and ceramics for over 40 years. With over 30 staff and more than 50,000 items in stock, they sell daily to customers all over the world from the market town of Uppingham.

Above is a piece in their gallery by artist John Piper called the Five Gates of London, selling for £7,500 at the gallery. This is a signed original screenprint from the edition of 100, Piper’s largest original print and one of his most sought-after. The five gates are Moorgate, Aldgate, Temple Bar, Kingsgate and Bishopsgate.

“ABOVE IS THE FIVE GATES OF LONDON PIECE BY JOHN PIPER. IT’S HIS LARGEST ORIGINAL PRINT AND ONE OF HIS MOST SOUGHT-AFTER. THE FIVE GATES ARE MOORGATE, ALDGATE, TEMPLE BAR, KINGSGATE & BISHOPSGATE...”

PETER BARKER FINE ART, UPPINGHAM

Another gallery based in Uppingham, Peter Barker Fine Art are experts in the subject.

The gallery is owned by experienced professional artist Peter Barker.

You will find no need for hushed whispers, or be made to feel intimidated Peter and his partner Jane are extremely friendly and love to share their clear enthusiasm with visitors.

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Above: Five Gates of London by John Piper.

Right: Ottery St Mary.

Below: Peter Barker’s Blinding Dawn Light.

Ottery

ST MARY

The 20th century artist John Piper also painted Ottery St Mary. This is signed edition of 100 printed by Kelpra Studios and published by CCA Galleries, selling for £2,950.

Blinding Dawn Light,

Peter Barker...

To the left you’ll see Blind Dawn Light by Peter Barker. Alongside the artists you’ll find in his gallery, he also exhibits his own work. This one is oil on board, costing £1,095. Most of his work is landscapes but the gallery is varied in styles.

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- RUTLAND’S FINE ART GALLERIES -

Garners Fine Art, Antiques and Interiors, Uppingham...

Below: Sir William Temple by Thomas Hudson selling for £35,000.

Cut-out: Minton Double Inkwell.

Garners Fine Art Gallery, also in Uppingham, has just acquired a very prestigious painting. The 18th century painting of Sir William Temple - oil on canvas - by Thomas Hudson is currently priced at £35,000.

Hudson (1701 - 1779) was the most fashionable portraitist of the second quarter of the 18th century.

Hugely prolific, he produced likenesses of most of the leading figures of the period.

Garners are international dealers in 18th - 20th century furniture and fine art. The family run business is run by husband and wife Paul and Phillipa Garner. The gallery has been established in Uppingham since 1966.

Minton Double Inkwell...

Something that immediately catches your eye as you enter Nigel Rhodes Fine Art Gallery in Stamford is not a painting, but an antique.

The minton double inkwell stands our from a mile away with its striking colour.

It truly is a beautiful inkwell in excellent condition and stunning colour. Not only that, if having this in your own home is a great conversation starter.

It’s currently £675 at Nigel Rhodes’s gallery.

n For more information about Garners Fine Art, Antiques and Interiors, and to enquire about the painting please visit www.garnersantiques.co.uk or call 01572 823607.

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- RUTLAND’S FINE ART GALLERIES -

EYEBROOK & OLD HOUSE GALLERIES As if five galleries wasn’t enough in Rutland, there are two more. The Eyebrook Gallery is your gallery for all nature-inspired art...

n Eyebrook Gallery Established in 2015, The Eyebrook Gallery is an art gift and framing shop based Uppingham.

The term gallery can be daunting for some but Eyebrook is a friendly and relaxed place where you can browse a wonderful range of originals, prints and gifts.

The framing workshop is housed in the same building and is available to anyone that needs something framing.

Visit to see the wonderful range of originals, prints and gifts or the vast selection of frames available. Visit www.eyebrookgallery.com for more info, or call 01572 868448.

n Old House Gallery The Old House Gallery has been in the corner of Oakham’s Market Place for over 30 years, and the potter & proprietor Richard Clarke is now the third generation of his family to be trading in the town.

The gallery deals in original works which are carefully chosen to reflect Richard’s keen interest in the contemporary art and craft movement. Call him on 01572 755538 or visit www.rutlandgallery.com for more information.

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Main: The Perfect Summers Day by Sherree Valentine Daines, an artist featured at Trent Galleries.

Trent Galleries, Tree Full of Love and a Message for You...

Trent Galleries in Oakham and Newark has a selection of fabulous Valentine’s Day gift ideas for contemporary art including Kerry Darlington’s Tree Full of Love (right), a unique edition costing £795, and Doug Hyde’s A Message for You, limited edition costing £525 (insert.)

Trent Galleries is delighted to present these two stunning new pieces for Valentines day.

These gorgeous collectable limited edition prints are by two of the gallery’s favourite artists, Doug Hyde and Kerry Darlington.

It’s a good way to reserve a special gift for the one you love.

Kerry Darlington was born in 1974 in Rhyl, North Wales. She was inspired by magical

fairy tale picture books and stories during her childhood, and held a particular fascination for Arthur Rackham’s intricate pen and ink work.

In 2002 Doug Hyde started painting for family and friends in his spare time, and in 2005 he was named as the UK’s best selling published artist and the UK’s most popular living artist on a BBC TV national news broadcast. n For more info about the gallery in Oakham, visit www.trentgalleries.co.uk or call 01572 722790.

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- RUTLAND SINFONIA -

Sound of the

Sinfonia

The Rutland Sinfonia will this month celebrate its 40th anniversary, holding dedicated anniversary concerts in the county...

Words: Tilly Wilkinson.

Rutland has many reasons to be proud - its exceptional fine dining experiences, its social community, and not to mention its reservoir - but one reason to take pride in Rutland this month, is its Sinfonia.

Rutland’s highly respected amateur symphony orchestra, Rutland Sinfonia, was founded in 1976, and regularly provides concerts in Oakham and Oundle.

They will celebrate the 40th Season since Barry Collett, Conductor Emeritus, founded the Sinfonia.

A number of events are dedicated to its 40 years of success, with Paul Hilliam, current Music Director and conductor, leading the group.

“I grew up in Bournemouth where I learned the oboe and played with various youth orchestras,” says Paul. “Going to weekly

concerts given by the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra was also a huge early influence and started me thinking that I’d like to conduct.”

“Although I’ve conducted lots of concerts with quite a number of different orchestras, the role of Music Director is particularly satisfying because it involves additional responsibilities, including choosing programmes and developing the orchestra’s standard.”

Paul has had a very fulfilling career in music, and it’s easy to see why he was chosen to be the Music Director for the Rutland Sinfonia with his breadth of experience.

“Conducting concerts in venues such as the Symphony Hall in Birmingham and the Barbican Hall in London, and with foreign orchestras has been exciting. It has definitely given me a wide experience of repertoire.” >> 27

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>> “In addition to exploring new repertoire with the Rutland Sinfonia, I now have the opportunity to revisit pieces I conducted when I was younger and hopefully perform them with a little more clarity and experience!”

“I love music written by romantic composers such as Tchaikovsky and Brahms and also nationalist composers such as Dvorak and Sibelius. But I find the music of English composers such as Elgar and Vaughan Williams especially moving.”

A number of Rutland Sinfonia players saw Paul conduct other concerts in the Midlands and when the orchestra was looking for a new conductor, they suggested he applied.

Paul lives just north of Leicester with his wife and two young sons, so Rutland is very close.

The orchestra was founded by Barry Collett in 1976 when he brought together a really talented group of musicians from Rutland and surrounding counties.

He conducted the orchestra for over twenty years and is now the orchestra’s Conductor Emeritus. Barry is widely respected as an authority on the music of Edward Elgar after he was awarded the Elgar Society Medal in 2012, but his concerts with

“The orchestra has between 60 and 70 members, and includes a couple of entire families...”

Rutland Sinfonia included lots of lesser known repertoire which players and audiences alike were keen to hear.

“I’m the orchestra’s fourth conductor and have been Music Director for ten years.

David Calow is the orchestra’s Associate Conductor and the orchestra’s Honorary President is Lord Lieutenant of Rutland, Dr Laurence Howard.”

“Special mention must also be made of Madeleine Stanley, who retires this summer as the orchestra’s much valued, long-standing secretary. She’s a non-playing member and without her time and support, we wouldn’t be where we are today.”

The orchestra has between 60 and 70 members, and includes a couple of entire families. The Sinfonia has all the instruments one would expect in a full-size

Top: Paul Hilliam, Music Director, conducting the Rutland Sinfonia. Above: The brass players in concert and David Calow, Associate Conductor for the group. Right: The entire Rutland Sinfonia Orchestra presently, with its 60-70 members including complete families. For more information: If you would like to get involved and become a part of the Rutland Sinfonia, or for more information, please visit the group’s website at www.rutlandsinfonia.org.uk.

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- RUTLAND SINFONIA -

symphony orchestra, but sometimes Paul has to find the odd unusual instrument, which last season included a güiro.

A güiro is an open-ended, hollow gourd with parallel notches cut on one side, played by rubbing a stick along notches to produce a ratchet sound.

“Our last concert included Grieg’s Piano Concerto and Beethoven’s 5th Symphony and sold out,” says Paul.

“I think that has been our most popular performance. But it’s also great to hear enthusiastic comments from audiences when we perform music that is less familiar!”

“We have two more concerts in our 40th anniversary season. The next concert is in Oakham School Chapel at 7.30pm on Saturday 11th March, when Barry Collett and I will be sharing the conducting. Barry

“Getting the whole orchestra dancing while performing was a great way to end last season...” is including Air de Ballet, a piece by Elgar previously thought to be lost, but recently rediscovered.”

“I’m looking forward to conducting the Double Concerto by Brahms, with violinist Diego Vassallo and his father, cellist Eduardo Vassallo.”

“Eduardo is Principal Cello of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and our group’s Musical Patron.”

“The final concert of our 2016/17 season is in St. Peter’s Church at Oundle on Saturday

13th May, when the programme includes Mendelssohn’s popular Violin Concerto with local soloist Freya Goldmark and also Mahler’s 1st Symphony.”

“Getting the whole orchestra dancing while performing Danzon No 2. by Arturo Marquez was a great way to end last season, probably one of the most memorable moments of the Sinfonia’s history since I’ve been a member. The main aim is to encourage young people to get involved. We are currently planning the next season and in March 2018, we have our fifth Young Soloists Concert, a tremendous opportunity giving school pupils in the county the chance to appear with the orchestra as soloists.”

We really wish Paul Hilliam and the Rutland Sinfonia the best of luck in their next 40 years, a group the county can most definitely take pride in. n

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Divorce and Separation What makes James Belderbos a popular solicitor for those facing divorce or separation?

James simply listens to you to identify what you want and what matters to you most before advising how to achieve the best result for you and your family.

If facing divorce or separation you will have numerous questions which may have been occupying your mind for many months before you consider which solicitor to choose. Answers to those questions will give you peace of mind.

Your questions may include; will I have to move house? When will I see the children? What will happen to the family business? How much maintenance will I receive or pay?

What will happen to the family pets?

Divorce and separation is a painful process and getting through it as smoothly as possible assists in enabling you to move on.

James will guide you through each step explaining your options giving practical advice and support when you most need it. You may need to go to court but there may be better ways for you including mediation or the collaborative process which are quicker, more cost effective and more dignified than going to court.

James Belderbos, is an expert family law specialist with a track record of helping his clients achieve what they want. If you would like to reduce the stress and achieve peace of mind, find out how James can help you or someone you are supporting by calling 01572 490 660 or email james@bbmlegal.co.uk to arrange a meeting convenient for you.

Bird, Belderbos & Mee offer a fixed fee for an initial meeting.

James looks forward to meeting you James will lift the pressure leaving you and helping you through this process. free to concentrate on whatever matters You, like many before will be glad to you most, whether your children, to have him on your side. career or business. Reducing the stress helps you with the rest of your life.

01572 490 660 | www.bbmlegal.co.uk

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- RUTLAND IN VERMONT -

RUTLAND A Postcard From

Rutland’s High Sheriff is coming to visit our county as Pride goes to press.

Not our own Sarah Furness, but Stephen Benard from the county’s twin town in Vermont, around three hours from New York City...

Words: Tilly Wilkinson.

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Twin towns generally share something fairly tenuous. It’s usually a link that pertains to local cuisine, cultural similarities or perhaps a link in its name. My personal favourite is Dull in Scotland paired with Boring in Oregon.

But rarely will you see towns twinned because they share exactly the same name. Rutland County in Vermont is paired with Rutland, our county.

To celebrate the link between the two places and to become more culturally diverse, the Sheriff of Rutland County Stephen Benard will be visiting both our county and our own High Sheriff, Dr Sarah Furness, to bring the twinned locations together.

Stephen was hired as a Deputy Sheriff at Rutland County Sheriff ’s Department in June 1979 before working as a Patrolman at Ludlow VT Police Department in 1981,

attaining the role of Acting Chief of Police.

He was elected as Sheriff of Rutland County in November 2006, and is currently in his third four-year term as Sheriff.

Not only is he Sheriff, Stephen is the past president of the Wallingford Memorial Rotary Club, a member and past chair of the Vermont Criminal Justice Training Council, and a member and vice-chair of the Homeland Security Law Enforcement Working Group.

His son Stephen Jr. has followed in his father’s footsteps, now a sworn member of the Rutland County Sheriff ’s Department, currently assigned to prisoner transport.

There are 14 Sheriffs in the State of Vermont.

Rutland County VT is comprised of 28 towns and encompasses 945 square miles, slightly more than Rutland UK’s 237 square >> 33

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>> miles and two towns. The population is 59,736, whilst Rutland’s population currently stands at 37,369.

Rutland County was created in 1781, when it was split from Bennington County. It is the only County that has a city and town of the same name, and the state of Vermont borders Maine, Massachusetts and New York.

Rutland County is known for its production of granite and marble. Some notable buildings and memorials in Washington DC, and around the world have been constructed using the purest deposits of these. Rutland is also known for, and has been for decades, a thriving slate industry.

As far as snow, a typical winter in Vermont can see upwards of three feet of snow, however the past few have seen little snow.

It does, however, get cold weather.

When we spoke to Stephen, the previous night was down to about -20.5 Celsius!

“We will have a week or two the end of this month into the first of February where the temp will not get above 0 degrees, even during the day and will dip as low as 15-20 below zero at night.

Last year, with little snow cover to insulate the ground, frost froze 4-5 feet down and a major issue developed all over the county with frozen water and sewer lines. Hopefully that does not happen this year!”

Rutland is the second-largest county in Vermont by area. The primary stream of the county is Otter Creek, which runs through the county from the south to the north. The downtown section in the city in Rutland contains the Rutland Free Library, the Paramount Theater and Merchant’s Row, a restored street dating back to the mid-19th century.

From Top/Left: Rutland’s farmers’ market, and a typical Rutland home in a leafy suburb.

Wilson Castle, Rutland’s answer to our own Oakham Castle. Left: Rutland’s Stephen Benard.

Above: Rutland’s annual Ethnic Festival, a celebration of diversity. From Right: Skiing in Rutland.

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- RUTLAND IN VERMONT -

108 buildings in downtown Rutland are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Rutland also has the 275 acre Pine Hill Park offering mountain biking, hiking, and other outdoor recreation. At the park’s entrance is the Flip Side Skatepark.

Some of the events you’ll see hosted in the city include Art in the Park, Friday Night Live, the Ethnic Festival, Farmers’ Markets, Summer Concert Series, the Red Knights International Firefighters Motorcycle Club, and the Vermont State Fair.

The Rutland Halloween Parade has taken place annually since 1960. In the early 1970s, the Rutland Halloween Parade was used as the setting of a number of superhero comic books, including Batman, Justice League of America, Freedom Fighters, Amazing Adventures, Avengers, and The Mighty Thor.

“To be in a place with such a deep and diverse history as England will be exciting, along with very humbling!”

The parade celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2009. Since 1986, Rutland has also hosted an annual exchange called the Rutland Ishidoriya Student Exchange (RISE), selecting students from grades 8-11 to send to Ishidoriya, Japan, another of Rutland’s twin towns.

All of the money used to support the exchange is from fundraising. In exchange, five students from Ishidoriya come to Rutland the January after the Rutland ambassadors return each year.

The city’s print news comes from the daily Rutland Herald. The weekly newspapers Green Mountain Outlook and the Rutland Reader are also published in Rutland. The Mountain Times is also widely circulated in Rutland.

The town was the birthplace of the first black president of a US college, various congressmen and notable authors.

Julie Caroline Dorr lived in Rutland, a well known poet, with her brothers William and Edward Ripley, prominent officers in the American Civil War. “We are excited at the invitation of Her Grace the High Sheriff of Rutland on February 26th. We in the US get excited when we are in a setting that has a few hundred years of history, but to be in a place with such a deep and diverse history as England will be exciting, along with very humbling!” n

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The secret to finding the perfect property?

The enduring popularity of TV shows such as ‘Relocation, Relocation’ and ‘Escape to the Country’ is testament to our nation’s continued fascination with property and buying homes.

Within forty-five, easy viewing minutes’ couples are shown three properties, often leading to a quick ‘from the pub’ negotiation and the deal is done. If only buying a home was that easy.

As most of us know, buying property is usually time-consuming, frustrating, confusing and downright stressful. In so many other areas of life we now turn to a professional to solve complex problems, yet many house hunters overlook the fact that help and advice is available for them by working with a property finder. Unlike estate agents, property finders solely represent the interests of the buyer; ensuring that the property being purchased is exactly what the future homeowner needs – not just about the number of rooms, but fitting their lifestyle, budget and personal requirements.

Of those aware of a property finder’s services, many assume that they are only for people who are moving into an area from away, but this is far from the truth. Local experts Garrington regularly work with clients who are frustrated by the lack of stock and can’t find anything to buy and also busy clients such as entrepreneurs/business people who are too consumed by work to commit significant time to finding and moving into a next home. Other groups who find the service valuable are the elder generation who may have been out of the property market for some years and value the support and impartial advice given at a time of great change and emotional turmoil.

The advantages of using a property finder will always vary from one buyers’ needs to another, but invariably will help with the following:

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Finding hidden gems Contrary to popular belief, property portals do not show the whole of the ‘for sale’ market and even where agents use these sites to advertise ‘discreet sales’, buyers can be sure there are a number of highly attractive properties available ‘under the counter’ only to be shown to a select few of serious applicants.

Property finders give their clients access to properties that are not being seen by the general public – either because estate agents are willing to share privileged information with a trusted fellow professional, or because the property finder has sourced some elusive ‘off-market’ properties directly from homeowners.

it is often the case that the most stressful part of the buying process can take place after an offer has been accepted. A skilled property finder will co-ordinate the due diligence process, bring in experts when specialist advice is needed, problem solve and give impartial advice on whether an unexpected issue is surmountable, or if it would be prudent to walk away from a deal. Indeed, the nature of the market is that both sellers and buyers alike are quite sensitive at the moment so careful brokering by a trusted advisor on the side of the buyer can help navigate around problems and lead to a successful outcome all round.

Last year, Garrington identified several such properties like this in areas such as Stamford, Wothorpe and the surrounding villages.

Expert negotiation Despite the ongoing political uncertainty being experienced, the stock shortage of homes for sale has meant that asking prices around Rutland and Stamford have remained surprisingly robust. Ensuring that buyers pay the right amount in light of a property’s merits (and shortcomings), market conditions and other comparable properties that have sold in the area ensures that price negotiations are based on sound thinking and facts, rather than just an asking price less a percentage, typical of unrepresented buying situations.

Property finders can also help with sealed bid scenarios, where experience has shown that success can be achieved not just by offering the highest amount of money.

Objective problem solving Whilst many buyers believe that finding a property is the hardest part of buying a home,

Kate Vincent Garrington

If you would like to discuss your property search requirements, learn about local market conditions and explore how using a property finder can make purchasing a property much easier for you, Garrington offer a complimentary initial meeting without obligation. Please contact Kate Vincent to arrange a meeting, e-mail her, or visit the Garrington website for more information.

Tel: 01780 408377 Email: info@garrington.co.uk www.garringtoneastmidlands.co.uk

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- SUE PERKINS -

SUE PERKINS h acles wit Spect

One half of comedy duo Mel & Sue, crucial cake taster in the Great British Bake Off, and presenter of comedy panel show ‘Insert Name Here,’ Sue Perkins has now decided to tour the UK with her new live show, Spectacles. De Montfort Hall in Leicester is one of the locations on the tour, a comedy show on her life...

Image: Steve Ullathorne. Words: Sue Perkins.

Sue Perkins has been a star of shows on British TV since 1997, presenting A Light Lunch with co-presenter Mel Giedroyc. The popularity of the show soared, and they soon became a duo, presenting many more shows together.

She’ll be visiting the area in late February with her tour, Sue Perkins Live! in Spectacles.

What prompted you to hit the road with your new tour, LIVE! in Spectacles?

“Well, having spent the last seven years crammed into a tellybox shouting the word ‘BAKE!,’ I think it’s high time I got out, and stretched my legs on the UK stage.”

“I feel it’s also a good time to look back on my life so far. I fully intend to live to the age 38

of 92, so this is half-time. Essentially this tour is handing out the orange segments.”

The show will be based on your book, Spectacles. Tell us about it.

“Writing a memoir begins a process that doesn’t necessarily end with publication.

You begin to think about family life and stories and relationships, and those are ongoing.”

“Once the book was published, I thought, there is so much more still to say without necessarily writing another book. Why not animate the book with a live tour?”

“It’s like a companion volume, I guess.

A big, technicolour range of thoughts.

Perhaps I should put that on the poster...”

Do you prefer live performances and touring the country?

“Yes, I love live. I really enjoy playing with an audience. At book events I do Q&As, and it’s often then that the madness starts.

It often feels like an anarchic version of Question Time.”

What do you particularly like about interacting with the audience?

“It enriches me. Performing live challenges you to be more engaged. And the great thing is, each venue is completely different.”

“What I have done lately has been TV-based, so I haven’t had the same feedback as I get live, and that’s what I love.”

“I adore the raw surprise of someone asking

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- SUE PERKINS -

a question you would never have expected.

I love the spontaneity of it. I don’t encourage hecklers, but sometimes a heckler turns out to be the funniest person in the room so why not embrace that? The audience is a big pool of fun you can swim around in.”

“A gig is a two-way street. It’s not about me broadcasting. It’s not, this is what I’ve got to say about this. It’s as much about how people respond to the material. My memoir is a story of family and childhood, and everyone has had one of those. Mine is not the definitive version of childhood, but it’s a great way to start a conversation.”

“I love it when someone says something like ‘It’s weird. I lived next to an electricity substation for 20 years as well,’ or, ‘We had a cat that dragged our turkey across the room at Christmas and we had to eat boiled eggs for our lunch instead.’”

“The book is a recorded history of my life so far, but the tour brings extra stuff to it.

The audience adds so much on top of that.

It’s important to have that double act thing going on with them.”

“I think the chemistry between the four of us on Bake Off works so well.

We’re all big kids, so it doesn’t feel like a job...”

So what subjects will you be covering in the show?

“Births, deaths, lemon drizzle and getting fondled by a Cambodian hermit. I’ll talk a lot about the catastrophising that went on in my family.”

“There was always a sense that something awful, that imminent doom, was around the corner. It came from my mum; she’s a worrier.

Everything was a potential trip to A&E!” I believe you will also be showing some slides at the show?

“Yes, there will be lots of slides. There is only one picture of me in the book and I have this horrific haircut in it. People say,

SPECTACLES BY SUE PERKINS The book that inspired the show

Spectacles is the hilarious, creative and incredibly moving memoir from much loved comedian, writer and presenter Sue Perkins.

“This, my first ever book, will answer questions such as Is Mary Berry real?, Is it true you wear a surgical truss? and Is a non-spherically symmetric gravitational pull from outside the observable universe responsible for some of the observed motion of large objects such as galactic clusters in the universe?”

“I may at one point have pretended to have been an Olympic fencing champion. Other than that, as I say, I’ve told it like it is.”

“Most of this book is true. I have, of course, amplified my more positive characteristics in an effort to make you like me. Thank you for reading.”

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“Surely that was just one bad haircut day.” But I’m afraid I have 150 slides of myself at different ages, all with the same haircut.”

“My mum had someone round to cut my hair who, it transpired, had only done dog grooming before. So I had a low Dougal-style fringe that was perfectly straight. It swayed like a trimmed, bearded collie. A bowl for all seasons. Perhaps that should be the title of the second volume.”

You have a wonderful relationship with your fans. Do they frequently stop you in the street?

“Sometimes, yes. Often they’ll want to ask about the weird things I’ve eaten. I’ve eaten everything. There’s nothing I haven’t eaten.

I’ve eaten peacock, rat, squirrel, wigeon, teal, snipe, snake, moose and yak. Bear Grylls, eat your heart out!”

“They always want to know what Mary Berry is like. Well, Bez is the best. End of.

She’s the nation’s sweetheart. I love her so much so, I’ve been trying to get her to adopt me for the last seven years.”

Why do you think The Great British Bake Off has proved so popular?

“I think the chemistry between the four of us works so well. We’re all big kids at heart.

We don’t approach it as a job, we approach it as a day out at a country fair.”

“But the real reason why the show is so successful is the 12 people who come to bake every year. I really do believe that the bakers are where the magic is.”

Finally, do you believe that a sense of humour is vital?

“Life is boring without the punctuation of punchlines. If you laugh at a joke, it’s because someone has put something you already know in a way you never thought of before.

It’s the expression of that idea that catches you.”

“The other person puts a new twist on it. It illuminates and cheers in one fell swoop.

Without humour, what’s the point? Life would simply be one long argument with a man from the BT helpdesk.” n

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Main: Sue with her Bake Off co-star.

De Montfort Hall’s Diary...

SPECTACLES LIVE!

Saturday 18th February Join Sue for an evening full of sparkling wit, tall tales and a user’s guide to Mary Berry.

THE FULL MONTY

Monday 6th - 11th March Based on the smash hit film and adapted for the stage, this hilarious and heartfelt production stars Gary Lucy, Andrew Dunn, Louis Emerick, Chris Fountain, Anthony Lewis, Kai Owen and a cast of 14. Not only has the play been getting standing ovations every night, but it also won the prestigious UK Theatre Award for best touring production.

BOND TO BORN FREE Friday 24th March

Philharmonia at the Movies returns with the music of legendary Hollywood composer John Barry, who won five Oscars throughout a career creating some of the most memorable movie music in history.

ANTON & ERIN

Thursday 30th March Join the nation’s favourite ballroom couple when they return with an exciting new show for 2017. Featuring dazzling new choreography, sparkling costumes and a sensational show band, watch Anton du Beke and Erin Boag glide elegantly across the stage.

Visit www.demontforthall.co.uk or call 01162 333111 to book tickets.

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What’s On...

WILDLIFE WATCH GROUP

Find out What’s On this month with events taking place in different venues across the county. We look at some of the fantastic stage productions, what’s happening in stately homes and tribute acts...

SIMON & GARFUNKEL REVIVAL BAND

Wednesday 1st March Very few music artists enjoy such a good reputation as the Simon & Garfunkel Revival Band. Wherever they perform, the very likeable musicians make a lasting and impeccable impression on the audiences and received unbelievable reviews. This month they will come to the Cresset Theatre in Peterborough. They will be remembering them 50 years on; the time since The Sound of Silence was released, which seemed to be the breakthrough for the original duo.

01775 764777, www.southhollandcentre.co.uk

ENSEMBLE MARQUISE

Saturday 4th March Ensemble Marquise is an English/Hungarian group, who bring alive the music and culture of the 17th and 18th centuries on period instruments, singing and acting in costume, and using scenic accessories to evoke the atmosphere of the time. Their performance in our area will be held at Spalding’s South Holland Centre.

01775 764777, www.southhollandcentre.co.uk

THE FULL MONTY

Monday 6th - 11th March The classic film about six out-of-work steel workers with nothing to lose took the world by storm. Now the show is touring the country’s theatres including De Montfort Hall in Leicester. It features fabulous songs written by the likes of Donna Summer, Hot Chocolate and even Tom Jones.

01162 333111, www.demontforthall.co.uk

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Sunday 12th March Join the Rutland Water Wildlife Watch group as they embark on a mission to find frogs, toads and newts, discovering whether they’ve made it back to the pond. Suitable for children 5-12.

01572 770651, www.rutlandwater.org.uk

- UPPINGHAM -

SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Friday 10th March The opening to Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony is instantly recognisable, one of the most well-known motifs in the orchestral repertoire. Join Uppingham School’s Symphony Orchestra as they embrace a flair for the dramatic in an electrifying programme of orchestral greats.

FAME THE MUSICAL

Thursday 16th - 17th March It is nothing short of a global phenomenon.

First came the hit motion picture, then the long-running TV series. Now it’s a stage sensation and coming to the Stamford Corn Exchange. And if the recent smash-hit West End production is any indication, Fame The Musical is indeed going to live forever.

01780 766455, www.stamfordcornexchange.co.uk

CANAPÉS & CABARET

Friday 10th March Returning for a third year by popular demand, Uppingham School Jazz Orchestra presents an evening of big band favourites in the Memorial Hall.

Enjoy all the biggest Count Basie hits through two energetic sets, with a delicious selection of canapés and tempting cocktails to round off the evening in style.

ALICE IN WONDERLAND

Tuesday 28th March Immersion Theatre bring their most spectacular show to date, as children and adults are invited to join in the hilarity of seeing the classic story brought vividly to life before having the chance to meet the characters after the show. This show is part of The Rutland Children’s Theatre Project, bringing theatre to schools.

01572 820820, www.uppthearts.co.uk

MADAMA BUTTERFLY

Thursday 30th March Madama Butterfly is a beautiful and hugely popular opera with performers and audiences alike, and remains one of Puccini’s most performed works. See the live screening at Key Theatre in Peterborough from the Royal Opera House.

01733 207239, www.vivacity-peterborough.com

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Send your press releases and events to: Features Editor via tilly@pridemagazines.co.uk.

BARNSDALE GARDENS

Sunday 26th March Gardening fans of all ages will love Barnsdale on Mother’s Day. It’s the most exciting time of the garden’s year, when everything is really coming alive again after the long winter snooze, with hundreds of bright spring blooms carpeting the borders, beautiful birdsong and the scent of flowering shrubs in the air. Mums visit free!

01572 813200, www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk

- NGS OPEN GARDENS -

GUNTHORPE HALL

Sunday 26th March Large garden in a country setting with extensive views across Rutland with a carpet of daffodils and spring flowering shrubs being notable features.

A great deal of recent redesign has transformed this garden with more recent works being undertaken.

Gunthorpe, Oakham, Rutland LE15 8BE

GRIMSTHORPE CASTLE

Sunday 9th April The Grade I listed gardens encompass nearly 65 acres and include large formal lawns, fine topiary and formal hedges, ornamental and productive kitchen garden, large herbaceous borders, rose parterre and woodland walks with spring bulb displays.

ANTON AND ERIN

Grimsthorpe, Bourne Lincolnshire PE10 0LZ

EASTON WALLED GARDENS

Friday 14th April 12 acres of 400yr old forgotten gardens undergoing extensive renovation. Set in parkland with dramatic views. C16 garden with Victorian embellishments.

Italianate terraces; yew tunnel; snowdrops and cut flower garden.

Easton, Grantham, Lincolnshire NG33 5AP

THE OLD HALL

Sunday 23rd April Stone walls and yew hedges divide the garden into enclosed areas with herbaceous borders, shrubs, and young and mature trees. In 2006 the lower part was planted with new shrubs to create a walk with mown paths. Interesting plants flowering.

Main Street, Market Overton, Rutland LE15 7PL www.ngs.org.uk

Thursday 30th March Featuring dazzling choreography, sparkling costumes and a sensational show band performing timeless music including I Got Rhythm, Moondance, Guys And Dolls, Le Jazz Hot and Strike Up The Band, the Swing Time Tour show with Strictly favourite Anton Du Beke and dance partner Erin at De Montfort Hall is sure to dazzle the audience.

01162 333111, www.demontforthall.co.uk

SYD LAWRENCE ORCHESTRA

Thursday 30th March This fizzy and frisky, glittering gem of a show remains the best entertainment in town as Chris Dean and The Syd Lawrence Orchestra deliver another full-throttle performance at Key Theatre in Peterborough.

01733 207239, www.vivacity-peterborough.com

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What’s On...

THE GOSPEL VARIETY SHOWCASE

Saturday 11th March The Gospel Variety Showcase returns for its second year, bringing local and national gospel artists to the Curve Theatre, Leicester.

This show will include music, spoken word, singing, dance and drumming, bringing this infectious genre to life.

0116 242 3595, www.curveonline.co.uk

SELF BUILD & DESIGN SHOW

Saturday 4th - 5th March Visit the SelfBuild & Design East Show to meet exhibitors, take part in seminars, see product demonstrations and ask experts for their advice. Talk to the manufacturers, architects, suppliers, designers, builders and project advisors that serve the east of England. It’s a great event that will help turn your dream for you home into a reality. The show is held at Peterborough Arena.

01283 742950, www.selfbuildanddesignshow.com

- JOE ORTON -

50 years since the death of celebrated Leicester playwright Joe Orton, Artistic Director Nikolai Foster brings What The Butler Saw to the stage in a Made At Curve production of the classic comedy.

Joe Orton’s audacious farce was his final play, completed just a month before his untimely death.

Orton’s comic masterpiece combines dialogue akin to Oscar Wilde’s witticisms with the craftsmanship of a French farce, and pokes fun at sex, authority and family relationships, spiked with the writer’s trademark cynical dark humour.

Comedian and actor Rufus Hound from One Man, Two Guvnors, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, and played Sancho Panza in the RSC production of Don Quixote, plays the very amorous psychiatrist Dr Prentice, who attempts to seduce his prospective secretary in a hilarious, innuendo-fuelled interview.

Dakota Blue Richards from Stella in Curve’s A Streetcar Named Desire, Endeavour, and the film the The Golden Compass returns to play Geraldine, the naïve target of his advances. n Visit www.curveonline.co.uk for more information or call 0116 242 3595. What the Butler Saw runs from 3rd - 15th March.

ROALD DAHL’S FANTASTIC MR FOX

Monday 3rd - 9th April Roald Dahl’s Fantastic Mr Fox is family fun at its finest. A juicy tale of greed, pride and the power of friendship, this world premiere and flagship production for the Roald Dahl centenary celebrations promises a dahl-icious theatrical feast with live music and gloriumptious designs. A wondercrump treat for the whole family. This re-telling of Dahl’s brilliant story will be a stage spectacle.

0116 242 3595, www.curveonline.co.uk

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Main: Smoked salmon and prawn parfait.

SPRING FORWARD Words & Images: Rob Davis.

One of the pleasures of March has to be the opportunity to venture out and about and enjoy spring dining... and if you’re short of a suggestion we’ve a corker this month in the form of the very wonderful Woodhouse Arms in Corby Glen...

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- EATING OUT -

meet the CHEF WE MEET ONE OF THE PUB RESTAURANT’S CHEFS, BART DONICZ

Love at First Sight: “I’ve been working here for about two and a half years.

I loved the look and feel of the place right from the start!”

Who doesn’t love spring? The expense and hassle of Christmas is a distant memory, we’re over that nippy, risky ‘will it snow’ period, snowdrops, crocuses and aconites make a grand entrance and the days become lighter, longer and a little warmer.

Then, of course, there’s spring dining.

Lamb, asparagus, new potatoes and all of the other delights of the new season. It’s a season when we’re all more inclined to venture out and as such we’ve a corking recommendation in the form of Corby Glen’s Woodhouse Arms.

The pub restaurant is about 25 minutes from Oakham, a little less from Stamford and only about 10 minutes from Bourne. ...and it’s well worth the trip!

Owners Amanda and Ian Clayton treated their derelict country pub to a makeover in

“THE WOODHOUSE ARMS IS A GREAT ‘HIGH-END PUB’ WITH CREATIVE FOOD, AND CONSISTENT HIGH QUALITY...

2013, and the result is a really good high-end pub restaurant that provides creative food, consistent high quality and a really nice atmosphere.

There’s a bar area with flagstones and a lovely roaring fire - in case the warmer weather is yet to make its presence felt - as well as a rustic dining room with stripped pine furniture and exposed stone at the front of the building, as well as a more formal restaurant at the back of the building.

There’s a total of about 100 covers, 22 staff and a team of five full time chefs, but Amanda says her most valuable achievement is fostering the happiest environment for them to all work in. >>

Food Wisdom: “The love that Amanda and Ian have for good ingredients, used well, shows, and we’ve a really stable team, which ensures consistency too.”

Food Heaven: “I love beef, and I really do think that our beef roulade is one of our best dishes; rich, warm and delicious!”

Food Hell: “Anything that hasn’t been thought about and prepared with love!”

Right: Bart and a five strong team of chefs provide quality and consistency.

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>> Amanda claims to retain team members longer, keep them well-motivated and as result, enjoys better consistency than other restaurants might achieve to ensure that whenever you dine and whoever’s in the kitchen, the same standards are prevalent.

Satisfying dining is achieved not just with a nice setting and a happy team, but with the addition of some fine local ingredients, too, with nearby suppliers too numerous to list.

Keeping things nice and simple, there’s a single menu, available during daytime and evening service, with six starters, eight main courses, as well as six desserts.

OPEN FOR BUSINESS Lunch: Monday to Saturday 12 noon to 2.00pm.

Dinner: Monday to Saturday 5.00pm to 9.00pm,

Saturday: 12 noon - 9.00pm.

Sunday: 12 noon - 4.00pm.

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- EATING OUT -

on the MENU À LA CARTE MENU AT THE WOODHOUSE ARMS

Starters

Smoked Salmon & Prawn Parfait with Bruschetta Crisp £6.25.

Ham Hock Terrine with Woodhouse Piccalilli & Toasted Brioche £5.75.

Manchego Cheese Croquette with Spiced Tomato Relish £5.75.

Main Courses

Beef, Bacon & Grain Mustard Roulade with Celeriac Mash & Braised Red Cabbage £12.95.

There’s a specials board too, with about six daily changing options. The Woodhouse is the same distance from Stamford, Newark, Sleaford, Grantham and Peterborough, making it a popular meeting place for friends seeking a light lunch and a catch up, or morning coffee. As such there’s a decent selection of sandwiches and paninis. But really, you’re missing a trick if you don’t give proper dining a whirl.

Happily - and actually due to requests from diners - the Woodhouse Arms has extended its opening hours and opens the kitchen from 5pm most days a week, particularly on a Monday, the traditional sabbath of the hospitality industry.

Chef Bart Dunicz’s favourite dish is his beef and grain mustard roulade. Served with celeriac mash and braised red cabbage, it’s flavoursome, with a rich jus and lovely smokiness from its bacon. Even our pictured vegetarian option of bubble and squeak cake had lots of flavour, thanks to a spiced tomato sauce.

Desserts include our chocolate roulade and a Baileys Irish Cream cheesecake. Naturally, desserts are all made in house, and by way of an accompaniment, there’s a choice of 33 bins of wine topping out at no more than £35.

Nearby, there’s Grimsthorpe Castle, ideal for those seeking a walk in pretty gardens.

The castle’s cycle hire, children’s playground and dog walking opportunities fulfil that hackneyed expression of something for everyone, whilst Easton Walled Garden with its spectacular spring display of snowdrop is just ten minutes away. Combine a meal at The Woodhouse Arms with either of those venues, and you’ll be very happy indeed.

Great presentation, imagination and a wealth of flavours in every well-considered dish makes dining at The Woodhouse Arms a real pleasure. If winter has brought with it a sense of cabin fever, now is definitely the ideal time to enjoy getting out and about again, and as part of your spring rehabilitation, a visit to Corby Glen is highly recommended and most definitely worthwhile!

Bubble & Squeak Cake with Poached Hens Egg, Spicy Tomato Sauce £10.95.

Rolled Fillet of Plaice with Smoked Salmon & Prawns, Creamy Leek and Dill Sauce, Sautéed Potatoes £13.50.

Desserts

Chocolate & Meringue Roulade with Raspberry Ice Cream £5.95.

Baileys Cheesecake with Chocolate Shard £6.25.

Woodhouse Cheese Plate £7.50.

NB: Featured dishes are subject to change.

n The Woodhouse Arms, Bourne Road, Corby Glen NG33 4NS. Call 01476 552452 or see www.thewoodhousearms.co.uk.

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The Butcher’s Block...

ENJOY MOUTH-WATERINGLY DELICIOUS BEEF, LAMB, PULLED PORK, GAME AND ALL THINGS MEATY IN OUR ROUND UP OF MAIN COURSES FROM THE COUNTY’S TOP RESTAURANTS...

THE MANE EVENT

The Red Lion in Great Bowden offers a very hearty dish of braised duck leg with cherry jus and creamed mash. It’s one of its many delicious meaty main courses.

01858 463571, www.redlion-greatbowden.co.uk.

n The Talbot Hotel in Oundle is part of the Coaching Inn Group which includes restaurants in Oundle, Market Harborough and in Lincolnshire. We enjoyed the succulent roast lamb with

peas, carrots and potato croquette on our visit, but there are a wealth of dishes to choose from, including a number of vegetarian options.

n RUSHTON HALL Seared fillet of lamb with barbecue shoulder, sweetbread and ratatouille.

01832 273621, www.thetalbot-oundle.com.

n The Lord Nelson in Oakham has a number of sharing options on its menu, including this lime and chilli beef steak salad, cooked pink, with sautéed thyme potatoes, lime and glazed onions.

01572 868340, www.knead. pubs.co.uk.

01536 713001, www.rushtonhall.com.

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- SAMPLE DISHES -

presented beautifully

The Marquess of Exeter’s Brian Baker was Rutland Pride’s Food Hero of the Year and his flat iron steak, Café de Paris butter, pommes frites and green salad shows us why he’s so admired.

01572 822477 , www.marquessexeter.co.uk.

LOCALLY REARED RED

A visit to the Crown Hotel in Stamford offers slow cooked braised Lincoln Red beef with honey glazed carrots and parsnip crisps.

01780 763136, www.kneadpubs.co.uk.

The Three Swans’s burger is one of the best in Market Harborough. Enjoy beef, bacon, caramelised onions, whisky woodchip smoked Cheddar, beef tomato, jalapeños, gherkins, skinny fries, and coleslaw.

01858 466644, www.threeswans.co.uk. n Featured dishes are representative examples of our featured chefs’ skills... the menus of our featured restaurants change frequently so dishes are subject to availability. Check each restaurant’s website prior to your visit for an up-to-date menu.

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Spring delights at the Marquess Join us on Mothers’ Day for a very special menu The perfect way to relax and celebrate with family and loved ones

Visit over Easter and enjoy our Spring a la carte menu Book a table for Easter Sunday and enjoy our delicious seasonal dishes

DON’T FORGET THE MARQUESS REGULARS… TAKE AWAY FISH & CHIPS, EVERY FRIDAY 5 – 7PM Adults £6.50, Children £4.50

STEAK NIGHT, EVERY SUNDAY Two Flat Iron Steaks with a glass of wine each just £30.00

52 Main Street, Lyddington, Uppingham LE15 9LT Call for bookings: 01572 822 477 www.marquessexeter.co.uk Lunch & Dinner 7 Days a Week | 17 Modern Bedrooms | Four AA Star Rated

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- EATING IN -

Spring Lamb Three Ways with...

WHETHER YOU’RE PREPARING SUPPER FOR TWO, A FAMILY MEAL OR YOU’VE FRIENDS OVER FOR DINNER, SPRING LAMB IS ALWAYS A WINNER. WE’VE THREE SUGGESTIONS FOR MAKING THE MOST OF THIS STAPLE...

SPRING LAMB STEW Prep time: 20 mins. Cook time: 1hr, 30 mins.

INGREDIENTS 1kg/2.2lb lean boneless lamb shoulder, cubed 2 bay leaves, 4 sprigs fresh thyme 1 onion, peeled and cut 2 baby or chopped carrots 1 leek, roughly chopped 3 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed Salt and black pepper 1.2L/2pint cold water 200g/7oz baby carrots, 200g/7oz baby turnips, 200g/7oz baby onions or shallots, peeled 200g/7oz baby or small leeks 200ml/7floz white wine 200ml/7floz good, hot lamb stock 200g/7oz Dwarf or French beans or 200g peas (optional) Two stalks celery, chopped 30ml/2tbsp freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley or chervil

Serves Six.

Whether you’ve a slow cooker, or just a large pan and time to kill, this delicious stew will feed an entire family...

Place the lamb into a large pan with the bay leaves, thyme, onion, leek, garlic, seasoning and water, to cover.

stock. Bring to the boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes.

Transfer the lamb to a large, ovenproof casserole dish and strain the vegetable liquor over the lamb. Discard the vegetables and herbs.

Season and garnish with the herbs and serve with plenty of crusty bread to soak up the juices.

Bring to the boil, reduce the heat and simmer over a low heat for 1 hour, skimming regularly, if required. Remove from the heat and cool slightly.

Add the dwarf or French beans, and celary, then cook for a further 3-4 minutes. Add frozen peas or petit pois and cook for a further two minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked.

Add the carrots, turnips, onions, or shallots, leeks, white wine and lamb

Tip: The stew can be cooled and kept in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, then reheated slowly until piping hot.

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LAMB FIDGET PIE Prep time: 10 mins. Cook time: 1 hr.

INGREDIENTS 8 lean lamb chops or diced lamb 15ml/1tbsp oil 450g/1lb potatoes, peeled and sliced 2 onions, peeled and sliced 2 eating apples, cored and sliced 3-4 fresh thyme leaves 150ml/¼ pint good hot lamb stock 1 x 500g pack shortcrust or puff pastry 1 egg, beaten

Serves Four.

This feel-good dish will help to see of the last of the winter blues, and is a great way to use spring lamb...

Heat the oil in a pan and brown the chops or diced lamb on all sides.

Meanwhile, peel and slice the potatoes and place in a layer on the bottom of an ovenproof pie dish. Add half the onions and apples. Top with the chops then the remaining onion and apple.

Sprinkle with the fresh thyme and pour over the stock.

Preheat the oven to Gas mark 4-5, 180190°C, 350-375°F.

On a floured surface roll out the shortcrust pastry, big enough to fit the pie dish.

Dampen the edge of the dish with a little water and place on top of the dish, trim off any excess pastry and press and crimp the edges to seal. Brush with beaten egg and cook in a preheated oven for 1 hour, cover with foil once golden to prevent burning.

Serve with seasonal vegetables. n

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ROASTED LEG OF LAMB Prep time: 20 mins. Cook time: 40 mins.

INGREDIENTS Leg of lamb joint, weighing around 500g.

Salt and freshly milled black pepper 5ml/1tsp dried oregano 400g/10oz baby new potatoes, thinly sliced Garlic bulb 45ml/3tbsp rapeseed or olive oil ½ bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and halved lengthways For the Mint Dressing 1 large handful fresh mint 60ml/4tbsp good balsamic vinegar

Serves Two.

This version of our leg of lamb dish takes advantage of the first flush of asparagus and new season potatoes...

Preheat the oven to Gas mark 6, 200°C, 400°F. Season the leg well with salt and pepper, and dust with oregano.

Put the potatoes, whole if small or chopped it a little lager, and garlic in a shallow baking tray and coat in the oil, shake well and cook in the oven for 20 minutes. Remove the tray from the oven, scatter over the asparagus.

You can also steam the asparagus and omit it from the main dish. Position the lamb on top of the potatoes and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning once.

To prepare the dressing; in a small bowl mix the ingredients together.

Arrange the potatoes, asparagus and lamb on a serving board, drizzle over the dressing and serve immediately. n

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By George!

Wine of the Month

England’s very own single malt!

Sebastiani Californian Zinfandel, USA, £14.95 / 70cl, 14% ABV

By George, it’s a whisky, made in England! The English Whisky Co is based in Norwich, very far indeed from the Borders. It’s impressive though, made at the St George distillery, and most akin to a typical Highland or Speyside single malt.

A great easy-drinking classic single malt with a gentle aroma with hints of vanilla and tropical fruits.

Melts on the palate.

Slightly nutty with a long malty finish.

This single malt is £39.99/70cl. Cheers!

“At this time of year I’m asked to recommend a wine that’s warming, not too heavy, and will accompany spring lamb or a roast.

This Zinfandel is perfect - really smooth and juicy.”

The Wine Cellar STREWTH! THIS MONTH’S SELECTION OF WINES COURTESY OF HARISH KHANDERIA INCLUDES AN ANTIPODEAN TRIO JUST PERFECT FOR WARMING UP YOUR MARCH...

DOWN UNDER: A TRIO OF AUSTRALIAN REDS PERFECT FOR EARLY SPRING...

1. Full-bodied with a lightness of touch, this shows plum and mulberry fruit of Shiraz lifted by the delicate apricot and notes of Viognier.

Langmeil Hangin’ Snakes, £17.95 / 70cl / 14.5% ABV. 2. This beautiful Pinot Noir shows typical characteristics of red cherry, strawberry, earth and spice. The palate is medium-bodied and succulent, with forest floor complexity woven into the cherry fruit. Allegory Pinot Noir, £13.69 / 70cl / 13.5% ABV. 3. Intense blackcurrant and mint aromas mark this classic Cabernet, while the palate offers abundant berry fruit alongside spicy complexity.

Katnook Estate Cab/Sav, £15.94 / 70cl / 13.5% ABV.

This wine is a bit of a gentle giant; bold enough to warm your winter but not too heavy in the event of an early spring and warmer temperatures.

Ripe black fruit, raspberry and plum spiciness with a vanilla background gives a flavoursome feel with no hard edges. n

Perfect for Puddings Rasteau Vin Doux Naturel, Cotes du Rhône, France

Perfect for puddings this month, allow us to recommend a dessert wine which will pair well with gooey chocolate brownies and other warm puddings.

A profound purple colour and a stunning aromatic nose of black cherry, raspberry and spice lead to a full, sweet palate with great concentration but no heaviness, and a supple texture through to the long finish. £22.95 / 30cl, 15.5% ABV.

n Our featured wines are available from Oakham Wines, High Street, Oakham LE15 6AH. Call 01572 757124 or visit www.oakhamwines.co.uk.

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THE NOOK

LOOK - RUTLAND HOMES -

THAT’S WORTH A Words: Rob Davis.

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It was supposed to be the ‘forever home’ for Oliver Smith and Jodie Nicholls, until mother nature had other ideas and baby number three arrived. Fortunately the next owners of Whissendine’s The Nook can enjoy making this unique property their own, whilst the couple plan their next property project...

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THE NOOK AT WHISSENDINE

Top: The house is set on a plot covering a third of an acre.

An open plan layout and lots of natural light are just two features.

“It’s an amazing thing to do,” says Oliver Smith, on planning and building your own home. And so it is, providing the chance to design your living space, realise your property wish list, and see your home gradually reach completion.

Unfortunately, it’s also time consuming and an expensive thing to do, imagine Oliver and fiancee Jodie's satisfaction in finally achieving their dream home. The financial advisor and company director of Oakham and Stamford’s Smith Elliot Financial Management says: “We wanted somewhere light, spacious and open plan, somewhere to entertain,” he says.

“From start to finish the project took just over two years and in that time we decided to have another baby. The house had lots of

space, but we had set aside room to entertain and so with more people in the house, especially as all three children are growing up, we felt we needed somewhere a little larger.”

“We purchased the land and the 1970s bungalow which was on it in August 2014, and lived there for a year before moving out and renting a place for a year whilst the new house was being built.”

Location: Five miles to Oakham, six and a half miles to Melton.

Style: New build family home created on a plot of a third of an acre.

Bedrooms: Four with two en suites and dressing room to master suite.

Receptions: Formal lounge plus open plan kitchen with living area and dining area.

Other Features: Utility, cloakroom, double garage.

Price: £845,000.

“We moved back in August 2016 but reasoned that instead of adding too many of our own personal touches, landscaping the garden or finishing the master suite’s dressing room, for example, it would be better to put the house on the market as both a completed family home, but one that could be personalised by the next owners.”

>> 65

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>> “It sort of offers the best of both worlds; complete but with scope for the next owners to make it their own.”

The house is arranged over two floors and has an open plan layout with large rooms.

There’s lots of natural light, not least in the master bedroom and living kitchen directly below.

There are bi-fold doors to the living room, kitchen and to the master bedroom’s Juliet balcony, and a full height suite of windows set in an oak frame. Elsewhere on the house is a super efficient, low maintenance Monocouche render in white. Indoors too, there are marble floors with underfloor heating and white contemporary bathroom suites with tiles from Porcelanosa.

“One of the things on our wishlist was a high specification, so we’ve used premium 66

fittings, appliances and tiles everywhere to make sure the house will look good for years to come.”

The kitchen’s bespoke hardwood cabinetry has been created by Russell Gower, finished in Farrow & Ball Cornforth White and Hague Blue. Corian work surfaces supplement Neff appliances including two ovens, dishwasher and a boiling water tap plus an integrated fridge freezer to create a well-specified place to cook and entertain.

Whilst families will inevitably spend most of their time in the living kitchen, there’s a separate lounge for entertaining too.

On the first floor, the master suite has that lovely large window, plus a master en suite and a dressing room, whilst the guest suite has an en suite and there are two further bedrooms.

Outdoors, the plot, totalling a third of an acre, is set entirely to lawn, with a dedicated ‘dog garden’ for pets and children, and a more formal area too.

There’s parking for around five cars, plus a double garage and oak gates, both of which are electrically powered.

“It’s been a great property and we’ve really enjoyed creating it. If our circumstances hadn’t changed, it would be perfect and we still debated whether we needed to move at all,” says Oliver. “In the end we reasoned that the house was more saleable in its pristine state, and whilst the next owners could make it their own,” Jodie says. n

Above: The kitchen features bespoke timber cabinetry and a host of integrated appliances.

Right: The entrance hall is deliberately large to boost the feeling of space when you first walk in.

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- RUTLAND HOMES -

“WHILST FAMILIES WILL INEVITABLY SPEND MOST OF THEIR TIME IN THE LIVING KITCHEN, WITH ITS LOUNGE AND DINING AREAS, THERE’S A SEPARATE LOUNGE FOR ENTERTAINING TOO...”

Top: Bathrooms feature premium fittings, and freestanding baths.

Below: The master bedroom suite has an en suite and dressing room.

Bottom: The formal lounge is currently used as a playroom for the couple’s three children.

n The Nook at Whissendine is currently on the market

for £845,000 with Murray Estate Agents of Oakham, Uppingham and Stamford. Call 01572 822587 or see www.murrayestateagents.co.uk.

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The Best of British Discover our large selection of vintage, retro & modern products for your home, for your garden or to give as a unique gift...

E+S xxx

ELIZABETH & STEVENS The Showrooms, Great North Road, Markham Moor, Notts DN22 0QU

Tel: 01636 822000 | www.elizabethandstevens.com

Open daily Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm. Just off the A1.

Free parking. Please call us if you are making a special journey.

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BRIGHT &

Beautiful - RUTLAND HOMES -

Words: Tilly Wilkinson.

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Churchgate Court in Braunston boasts plenty of light flooding through its rooms.

Credit is due to current owner Sonia Young who, with the help of Vale Garden Houses, added additional space and light to her kitchen...

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CHURCHGATE COURT,

BRAUNSTON

Above: The landscaped courtyard area is a great outdoor dining space in the summer months.

Rutland is rich in traditional properties which capitalise on the beauty of their rural location, be it a converted barn or a renovated country manor house.

That is why it is refreshing this month to be able to feature a more contemporary home, combining both old and new, that is just as appealing as a grand three-storey renovated period property.

Churchgate House, Churchgate Court in Braunston was brought by Sonia Young at foundation level ten years ago.

The private and gated development of Churchgate Court was designed and created

by Kavan Brook Shanahan of Pavillion Estates from what was originally the coach house and stable blocks for Braunston

Manor. It was however in bad condition so most of the stable block was destroyed and fresh foundations laid.

“The tack room is the only part of the old building that is still integral to the house,” says Sonia.

Location: Three miles to Oakham, five miles to Uppingham, five miles to Hambleton.

Style: A modern family home designed beautifully with plenty of entertaining space.

Bedrooms: Four, three double bedrooms and one single bedroom, two with en suites.

Receptions: Three arranged as dining/sitting room, kitchen/ breakfast room and conservatory.

Other Features: Terraced gardens and Vale garden house.

Price: £795,000.

“It was good to buy into the house at foundation level as it meant I could have some input into the specification and interiors.”

As you enter through the main door, which was once the entrance to Burrough Hall, to the left you will see double doors that lead to the sitting room, sometimes used as a dining room.

To the right, you’ll enter the kitchen breakfast room with pantry and utility leading from it.

The kitchen features an Aga cooker, bespoke 71

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cabinetry and throughout.

integrated

appliances

Leading from the kitchen is the orangery designed and installed by Vale Garden Houses, who did a fabulous job of bringing even more light into the property.

On the first floor you’ll find a guest wing to the right with a double bedroom, ensuite and a view that extends across the river and through the tree.

Across the other side of the landing is a single bedroom, main bathroom, a guest room at the far end and an ensuite to this room too.

Outside in addition to the landscaped courtyard garden - which is walled and fenced for privacy - there is a long driveway that leads to a private off road parking area and a twin garage.

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After living in Churchgate House for the past ten years Sonia has decided it’s time for her to leave. She is now looking for something a little smaller.

“I am looking to downsize as the house offers a large amount of space. I am planning to stay in Rutland, and if possible in the village of Braunston too.”

Churchgate House is a fabulous family home, flooded with lights, boasting plenty of space and immaculate interior design, landscaped gardens, plenty of privacy all in a fabulous village location.

The sought after village of Braunston in Rutland is located just to the west of Oakham and is well known and loved for its strong sense of community.

There are two very busy pubs and an active and well supported village hall, hosting a

variety of clubs and events throughout the year, so it’s quite a social village. We’re lucky to be able to boast a generally close community across Rutland.

The residents of Braunston are a friendly bunch and whoever the next owners of Churchgate House will be, there is no doubt they will receive a truly warm welcome in the village. n

Above: The kitchen and the breakfast room area with integrated appliances and an Aga oven.

Right: One of the main bedrooms beautifully decorated and presented with en suite.

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- RUTLAND HOMES -

THIS IS A FABULOUS FAMILY HOME, BOASTING IMMACULATE INTERIOR DESIGN, LIGHT SPACE, LANDSCAPED GARDENS, PLENTY OF PRIVACY AND A PERFECT LOCATION BETWEEN RUTLAND’S TWO TOWNS...”

Left: The orangery connected to the kitchen and allowing access to the garden.

Below: The sitting room and dining room on the ground floor of the property.

Above: The breakfast room leading to the orangery and gardens; perfect entertaining space.

n Churchgate Court is currently on the market with James Sellicks, 24 Catmose Street, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6HW. Call for details on 01572 724437 or see www.jamessellicks.com.

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Barratt & Swann

CRAFTING INTERIORS FOR OVER 60 YEARS

Martin Barratt & Tim Swann

0115 933 2642 www.barrattandswann.co.uk

KITCHENS - BEDROOMS - STUDIES - STAIRCASES - FURNITURE

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INTERIORS

Crafting Beautiful Bespoke

A totally bespoke service, an established team and an unsurpassed ability to design bespoke interiors. These help to yield truly impressive kitchens, bedrooms, studies and bathrooms for Syston based Moir Wade’s clients...

“We don’t have a showroom,” says Jonathan Wade of Syston’s bespoke interiors specialist, Moir Wade. “Our rooms are so individual, so totally bespoke, that we feel there’s no benefit.” Instead, visitors to the business are invited to tour the company’s 6,500sq ft ‘working showroom,’ from which its ten-strong team of cabinet makers have been creating hand-crafted bespoke kitchens, bedrooms, studies and bathrooms since 2002.

“Both myself and Will Moir - my business partner and brother-in-law - worked in the industry on similar high end interiors before establishing Moir Wade to create really special rooms.”

Moir Wade’s interiors are absolutely individual, the result of a collaborative design process with clients. The team typically work with budgets from £40,000-£60,000 for a fully completed kitchen, but some budgets have been as modest as £25,000 and others as keen as £250,000.

In all instances, though, an initial consultation, site visit and the creation of a client’s ‘wish list’ are followed up by the creation of a combination of hand-drawn artists’ impressions and more formal 3D renders. “Design is definitely an important process,” says Jonathan.

“It helps the client to refine their ideas, formalises the budgetary requirements of a project and ensures everyone has an idea of the look and feel of the finished room. That’s why we put so much effort into the consultation element of our work.”

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Above: A bespoke Moir Wade bedroom with walnut and vavona burr veneers and a contemporary four poster bed.

The room features a bespoke dressing room and en suite too.

Main: Moir Wade kitchen project with two circular islands and 20 metres of cabinetry.

A huge array of appliances include two dishwashers, three ovens, two microwaves, steam oven, a boiling water tap, three warming drawers and 65” TV. The breakfast bar seats nine people and the whole room is finished in satin walnut and wenge veneers.

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- BESPOKE INTERIORS -

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- BESPOKE INTERIORS -

>> “We also recommend a visit to our previous clients’ homes, and to our workshops, which ensures clients can see for themselves how conscientious our workshop and installation team members are. At the end of a project a client is on first name terms not just with myself and Will, but with every member of the staff.”

“We’ve retained our workshop staff for over a decade, because they share the same ethos of unsurpassed craftsmanship that we both want the business to be known for.”

A kitchen’s bespoke cabinetry can be created from tulip, maple, oak, walnut, cherry or a wide range of unusual and contemporary veneers, whilst options for work surfaces include Corian, granite, quartz, timber or Pyrolave.

Appliances specified in kitchens are typically from Miele, Gaggenau or Siemens, sometimes Wolf and Sub Zero. Other fittings are sourced from Qooker, Kohler, Villeroy & Boch and Franke, all premium, high-end names, each renowned for quality.

One thing clients will never experience when working with Moir Wade, though, is the whiff of salesmanship. “Being treated how we would expect to be treated is central

“Being treated how we ourselves would expect to be treated is central to the business’s ethos...” to the business’s ethos,” says Jonathan.

“Pressure selling is a real turn-off, and we’re conscious that throughout our industry, clients are sensitive to pressure selling, poor organisation once a job has begun, and poor communication.”

“That’s why, at every stage, you’re dealing with myself at the ‘front of house’ and Will, overseeing the workshops. Likewise, we use our own fitters, builders, plumbers, gas and electricity specialists - even plasterers, tilers and decorators. We project manage every job, trade on our reputation, and enjoy the very best feedback as a result.”

“We’re happy to receive enquiries and we can’t wait to help this year’s customers to create the kitchens, bedrooms and studies of their dreams.” n

THREE BEAUTIFUL ROOMS

Jonathan & Will recall their favourite past projects (pictured right):

“Night Life...”

Whiskey bar and wine store in a large country manor house.

Walnut bar wrapped in woven leather, solid walnut wine store with laser cut shaped acrylic shelves for individual bottles, all with LED lighting.

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“Ashdown House...”

A rich mix of curved walnut cabinetry with smooth, cream quartz worktops creates a stunning, contemporary feel.

A turquoise handmade glass splashback provides a striking third colour and the matching coasters and wall hanging create attractive accents.

“Bradgate Hall...”

Cabinets made from a light character oak, tall curved painted larder cupboards and granite worktops with distinctive patterning and splashes of colour. A vast island is in comfortable reach of the AGA with a sunken oak breakfast table set into the opposing side.

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Three Rooms: Two kitchen projects and a breathtaking cellar whiskey bar in a local stately home with pewter bar top, walnut and glass stars, and American black walnut wine store.

n For more information on Moir Wade, based on Nelson Street, Syston, Leicester LE7 2JQ , call 0116 269 5915 or see www.moirwade.co.uk.

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Winter NEFF Sale All appliances available at competitive prices, 63 appliances on show

• Contemporary, modern, traditional & handmade bespoke kitchens

• 25 NEW large room settings in our showroom

• Affordable, quality kitchens and the latest designs on display The best quality, best value & best service from a company fitting kitchens since 1981

Bespoke Handmade Kitchens by Charles Yorke

Your local appointed Sheraton dealer.

THE AREA’S LARGEST INDEPENDENT KITCHEN SHOWROOM The Maltings, Barnack Road, Stamford PE9 2NA

T: 01780 756514 or 755855

E: sales@qksstamford.co.uk

www.qksstamford.co.uk

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Above: English Rose’s Lissa Country Oak, painted in Hickory.

Quality Kitchen Style 36 years in the business of creating beautiful kitchens ensures that Stamford’s QKS has the expertise, product range and experience to create a room that really works for clients, no matter what the size or style of your home...

Words: Rob Davis.

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- KITCHENS -

It’s the area’s largest kitchen showroom, and has over 30 room settings to demonstrate the breadth of kitchen designs available right on your doorstep.

QKS’s showroom is under constant development and last year saw the debut of 10 new rooms in both traditional and contemporary styles.

It’s a reflection of just how keen Malcolm Brandwood and the team are to help customers in Stamford, Rutland and the surrounding counties to create the room of their dreams, no matter what the style or size of their home.

“More than ever before, the kitchen is a multi-purpose room, one where families work, rest and socialise, as well as spend time cooking,” says Malcom.

QKS Kitchens, Stamford Kitchens: Bespoke handmade, rigid and non-rigid cabinetry with 1,000 different door styles and colours.

Appliances: Stockists of Siemens and Master Dealer for Neff.

Work Surfaces: 200 types available from engineered stone to solid wood and laminate.

The Maltings, Barnack Road, Stamford PE9 2NA 01780 756514 or 755855, www.qksstamford.co.uk

“Our own brand factory built units and rigid carcasses ensure we’ve a huge range of options from shaker doors to natural wood, high gloss and painted finishes. We’ve over 1,000 different door styles, four types of kitchen, 200 types of worktop, and appliances from names like Neff, with whom we’re a Master Partner.”

“With over 180 years combined design experience, we promise to beat any like-for-like quote, providing and managing all of the trades you need, from building, electrical, gas and plumbing work to tiling and decorating.”

“It’s our experience which ensures we can provide the best possible kitchen, with service that reflects our 36 years in the industry.” n

“Choosing a new kitchen can seem daunting because it’s a potentially big upheaval, it’s a big investment and because it’s so important to get its design and installation right both visually, but practically, too.”

“We’ve six designers and in-house fitters and over the years, we’ve helped out customers to not only design a kitchen that looks great, but to create one that suits their lifestyle.

Kitchens need to provide the storage and functionality that’s needed, and we’ve ensured that the project management and installation of all of our jobs has progressed as smoothly as possible to provide the minimum of disruption throughout the process.”

Left: Fusion in high gloss ivory.

Below: Stately Shaker in painted Oxford Blue.

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Main: New for spring 2017 is Clarke & Clarke’s Bloomsbury, Chair seen here in Berwick Trail, denim colourway.

Right: New for spring 2017 is Designers Guild’s Roxburgh Ocean Cushion.

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- HOMES -

Blue is the Colour

PERIOD HOMES ENJOY AN INJECTION OF RETRO PRINTS AND COLOUR, AS WELL AS TEXTURES. THIS MONTH, WE’RE LOOKING AT BOTH LIGHT AND HEAVY SHADES OF BLUE, ESPECIALLY SUITED TO VICTORIAN HOMES...

If you suffered from the winter blues, during the cooler months, you’ll be relieved that spring is finally on its way. But don’t dismiss blue as being a cold, unfriendly colour for your home, for whilst it can be heavy, and a cold colour to work with, even the most bold shade of blue can really lift your room.

The colour is ideal, too, for receding the dimensions of a reception room, turning a large space into a cosier casual sitting room, ideal for cinemas rooms and TV lounges, or for creating intimate dining rooms.

entire home or room from studios - each one will be delighted to assist with just one or two elements for your room.

Bespoke furnishings are designed to suit the style, scale and age of your property, and always look better in your home, typically proving to be better quality and better value overall, so take advantage of the expertise available to you in the county and see over the page for our recommended suppliers. >>

Our suggestions this month include ready made sofas as well as fabrics from leading design houses, stocked by the county’s independent interior design specialists.

Using a studio’s expertise means taking advantage of their ability to create bespoke sofas and chairs, or cover existing chairs.

In addition, local interiors businesses can create window dressings and bespoke blinds, make scatter cushions and advise on choosing wallcoverings and premium paints from names like Little Greene and Farrow & Ball.

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- HOMES -

“CREATE A ROOMS THAT’S CONTEMPORARY, WHILST WORKING WELL IN THE COUNTY’S GEORGIAN, EDWARDIAN AND VICTORIAN COUNTRY HOMES USING BLUE HUES...”

Top: Amelia is part of Duresta’s Boutique Abode collection.

Available as grand, two or three seat sofas.

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Below: Zoffany’s Edo range of fabrics.

Acer curtains, sofa in Birado velvet, anthracite colourway.

Right: Cushions in Colefax & Fowler fabric.

Sofa in Dunsford stone, cushions in Auden, Anders and Danby blue.

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Main: Designers Guild Pavia is a new collection of deep pile heavyweight velvets for creating sumptuous upholstery.

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- HOMES -

Above: Cushions in Bloomsbury, a new Clarke & Clarke range.

SOFT FURNISHINGS IN STAMFORD and RUTLAND Furleys 7 High St, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6AH, 01572 755539, www.furleys.co.uk.

Left: Clarke & Clarke’s Castle Garden, new for 2017. Sofa in Sissinghurst. Curtains in Sackville Stripe.

Above: Clarke & Clarke’s Bloomsbury, new for 2017.

Right: Celestial, and Marien Blue from Little Greene’s new Blue range.

J&L Ball 16 North St, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 1EH, 01780 481416, www.jandlball.co.uk.

Oldrids Downtown Superstore Gonerby Junction, A1 Grantham, Lincolnshire NG32 2AB, 01476 590239, www.oldrids.co.uk.

Sarah Harding Interiors 6 Market St, Uppingham, LE15 9QH, 01572 823389, www.sarahharding interiors.co.uk.

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UNSURPASSED QUALITY, AFFORDABLE CRAFTSMANSHIP Bespoke Kitchens, Bedrooms and Bathrooms - full project management and free quotations

Peter Jackson Cabinet Makers Ltd Devereux Way, Horncastle LN9 6AU

Tel: 01507 527113 W: www.peterjacksoncabinets.co.uk E: info@peterjacksoncabinets.co.uk

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Peter_jacksonCM

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Favoured Flowers 2017 GARDEN INSPIRATION

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Looking to brighten up your garden this year? Here are our top 2017 ideas for floral fancies in your patch...

1. Scabious This beautiful flower creates the illusion of flower on flower. It also brings about a mecca of bees, something many gardeners are pushing at the moment.

2. Coreopsis This flower combines well with other plants and immediately brings a bright burst of colour to any bed.

3. Dianthus Another bright colour for the garden, Dianthus has a lovely fragrance and makes a pretty cutting flower.

4. Petunia A flower that has never gone out of fashion.

5. Peony These large flowers in whites, pinks and reds add an element of romance and glamour to any garden.

6. Alstroemeria Coming in a number of varieties, alstroemeria (sonata pictured) is a bright addition.

7. Cosmos A daisy-like flower, cosmos’s varieties include chocolate cosmos, offering a tasty scent similar to dark chocolate.

8. Fuschia A garden favourite, still as popular as ever.

A great way to add variety with this hanging flower.

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- GARDENS -

SUMMER A GARDEN FIT FOR

Garden designer David Greaves takes us on a tour of this Old Dalby garden, designed to ensure this family can enjoy entertaining all year round in a space that’s low maintenance Words: Rob Davis. and fit for purpose...

Look out of the window right now, and it’s almost impossible to believe spring is on its way. But soon, grey skies and single digit temperatures will soon give way to blue skies and long afternoons in the garden with friends and family. Our gardens are increasingly extensions of our homes which give us the opportunity to bring outdoor living to life, with places to sit, dine and even cook outdoors with friends and family becoming more of a priority for many people, not just planting schemes and landscaping.

This month’s featured garden has been designed and constructed

by David Greaves and his teams based in Old Dalby, David was responsible for designing his clients’ garden, and heads up a 12strong team, specialising in all types of landscaping projects using a varied range of creative landscaping materials. The site is about an acre in total and was a new build project for a local property developer. The key to this project was to create a contemporary outdoor space surrounding different parts of the house to complement their new build.

David advises "It provides space for the whole family to enjoy the different seasons whilst ensuring mum and dad have space to entertain in the evening.” The site was originally just a rolling grass bank, quite plain,”

“We wanted a modern landscape to suit the family’s desire to spend time together and take advantage of the south facing aspect of the property.” >>

Main: Sunken patio area was designed to introduce different levels with distinct seating and dining areas, with basalt slate and box hedging to the entrance steps.

LANDSCAPING FOR LEISURE The Property: Contemporary new build executive home for a family based in Old Dalby.

The Site: One acre, built up to introduce different levels onto the site for extra interest and to create distinct areas.

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The Materials: Polished ‘mountain mist’ paving and driftwood paving for contrast, bullnose basalt seating and steps, oak raised planters.

The Planting: Pleached laurel trees, box hedging, yew for screening, planting for all year round colour and interest.

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- GARDENS -

>> The main patio area features sawn and polished mountain mist paving, complimented by porcelain driftwood paving to give a contrast.

The rear of the project features bull-nose black basalt seating set in raised oak sleeper beds, with tier slate walling to compliment.

The raised oak sleeper seating planters introduce another material and texture.

The box hedging on the front installed in between the steps helps to break up the slate and paving as you approach.

The water features in this project give a tranquil feel in seating areas, a slate paddle stone rill which runs into the sunken area, a copper pipe water feature in a curved reclaimed brick wall at the entrance to the drive and a slate paddlestone curved wall with water cascading into a pool at the rear of the property.

“We’ve used yew and pleached laurel to screen the areas, the planting scheme add's texture and all year round interest,” David creates designs which his teams contruct, but he also works with Karen Gimson on some planting schemes. He also implements design works with leading RHS designers Chris Beardshaw, Rebecca Winship, Emma

JOBS for MARCH Planting: Plant summer flowering bulbs and forced bulbs, and snowdrops for next year’s display.

Fruit and Vegetables: Plant asparagus, early potatoes, plus onion and shallots. Plant apple trees, cherry trees and direct sow carrots and salads.

Other Jobs: Ensure your lawnmower is serviced and fit for purpose.

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Scarborough, Jackie Setchfield, Elspeth Stockwell, Claire Jones and Chris CooperHayes constructing their designs for clients.

The family aren’t avid gardeners, so the idea was to create a space which wouldn’t commit them to lots of work, whilst still looking established and providing a natural looking landscape.”

“Commissioning a professional landscaping firm is a way of ensuring not just good design, and a garden that is fit for your needs, but one where design and creation have gone hand in hand to ensure that the project has been well-executed technically and uncompromised.”

David’s 25 years of experience and ability to really make spaces work for a client and ensures that no matter what your budget, or your space, you can create anything from a small courtyard to a large project that will prove a useful space year after year.” n

“DAVID’S 25 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE MEANS HE CAN TRANSFORM ANY SPACE, FROM A SMALL COURTYARD TO A LARGE LANDSCAPING PROJECT...”

Top Left: The slate paddlestone rill is just one of three water features in the project.

Top Right: Slate paddle stone water rill running through the main front patio.

Right: Reclaimed brick has been used to create the curved wall and copper pipe water feature to the entrance.

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David’s Garden HIGHLIGHTS

THE FOLLY CREATED BELOW ALONG WITH A PLANTED GARDEN IN FRONT OF A SLATEWALL WITH MONOCOUCHE RENDERED LOWER WALLS

“This project included a Pavillion and Folly, designed by Chris Beardshaw.

We have constructed this last year and are just finalising the planting now. The folly overlooks the river at the bottom of the garden.”

“This garden - was designed by Emma Scarborough, the curved slate wall complimented with planting above the monocouche rendered walls next to the main patio area.”

n David Greaves specialises in Landscape Design & Construction, working with a range of budgets.

Call 07852 371873 or visit www.davidgreavesdesign.co.uk.

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Nature

NOTES

Nature is finally returning to our gardens in March.

There are some rare sights to see this month including boxing hares, jumping frogs and fighting mayflies...

Boxing

BABIES

The products of the ‘mad’ March hare mating season are called leverets. They’re born fully furred with eyes wide open ready to run from predators if needed.

March will see nest building begin.

Expect plenty of robins, sparrows, blackbirds and other birds in your gardens as they fly back and forth with twigs.

If you fancy giving the birds a helping hand, you can tie up bunches of tiny twigs, dried moss and vegetable matter from the kitchen near your feeders.

Having made the perilous journey across Europe, tiny warblers will be returning from Africa in March. They are probably more of a difficult bird to spot, but you might hear them singing.

Hibernating animals such as hedgehogs and frogs will start to 102

become more active in March. If you’d quite like to attract frogs to the garden but don’t really have space for a pond, you can use a plastic washing up bowl.

Dig a whole and place it halfway into the ground in a shady place.

Putting a large stone in the centre will help the frogs jump in and out. Other amphibians can be attracted with long grass or piles of stones in sheltered damp locations.

Bulbs are the first signs of spring.

Watch out for daffodils and crocuses. They may already be in bloom, especially daffodils, heading into the month of March if last year was anything to compare to.

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- NATURE -

HOP TO IT:

Toad or Frog?

Struggling to identify the difference between the amphibians you can spot in your pond? Here’s a rough guide...

Common Toad The common toad has a lumbering walk or small hop and is covered in obvious warts.

It’s generally dry in appearance.

Common Frog Variably spotted or striped skin, and tends to move with a hop rather than a walk.

Above: A peacock butterfly is one of the earliest butterflies so you may spot one in March.

Opposite/Top: Boxing hares; a female (jill) and a male (jack). Jills put up a fight to test the jack’s determination or to show she’s not ready to mate.

Opposite/Bottom: Watch out for early daffodils.

Opposite/Left: Frogs will be hopping about garden ponds this month.

Other attractive early flowering includes primula, hellebores and pulmonaria.

The ideal month for planting in your garden is March; the plants are still dormant and don’t mind moving while the soil is slowly starting to warm up.

You might be able to spot brimstone and peacock butterflies on sunny days in March, dependent on the everchanging seasons.

If you have lungwort in the garden you might be able to see some long-tongued flower bees; they look like small black or brown bumblebees. There are plants that are important sources for bees.

Use primrose, butterbur, wood anemone and lesser celandine to attract hoverflies and solitary bees.

Young rabbits may be hopping about above ground for the first time in nearby fields, and it’s a busy time for voles. Look in hedgerows for a glimpse of these creatures.

Freshwater invertebrates like mayfly and stonefly are preparing to emerge as adult insects so be sure to look in streams.

You might spot a couple of boxing hares too in fields in March during their mating season, a peculiar and rather entertaining show only available in the spring time.

Pool Frog Males have prominent vocal sacs at the side of the mouth and light yellow back stripe.

Natterjack Toad Like a common toad but with a stripe down its spine. It has short stocky legs and seems to run rather than walk or hop. They have golden yellow irises with dark slanted pupils.

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HAPPY

EVER AFTER

This month’s Wedding Album features Kelly and James Noble. Kelly is a marketing coordinator and James works in the banking sector in risk management. The couple held their wedding at Kettering’s Barton Hall... Photographer: Aaron Storry, 07525 429355, www.storry.co.uk.

James surprised me with a trip to New York to celebrate our 10 year anniversary. He had booked the flights and hotel, and even spoke to my boss to book the time off work for me.

December came and we embarked upon what was to be the best trip of my life.

On our second day, we’d planned a day sightseeing, taking in all the major sights.

We walked across Brooklyn Bridge to Brooklyn, found a spot by the water that overlooked the skyline beautifully then James grabbed my hands, gave me a beautiful speech and got down on one knee!

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Little did I know he was filming the entire thing! It was truly amazing! and I well up every time I watch it back.

We started planning immediately, and had about 18 months until the big day. I lived on Pinterest and wedding blogs.

We booked the venue, Barton Hall, and our photographer Aaron Storry immediately.

He is a genius.

His passion really reflects in his work and he captured our day better than I could have ever imagined. Our theme was rustic and romantic.

Our centrepieces were tree log slices with jam jars and medicine bottles full of gypsophila and roses. I also made my very own newspapers called ‘The Daily Vow’ that included our story and for our table plan, we revamped a wooden ladder and used twine to hang cards from it. We named every table after memorable places and placed a Polaroid on each table with photos from those places.

My bouquet consisted of roses and gypsophila with foliage, a family friend made our cupcake tower of vanilla and chocolate cupcakes, all decorated with pretty

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- WEDDINGS -

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- WEDDINGS -

>> vintage details and we had a variety of lawn games including giant jenga, football, limbo, croquet and badminton.

I walked down the aisle with my dad to our string quartet playing Take That’s Greatest Day which was even more special.

The ceremony really was my highlight finally marrying James in front of all our loved ones after so long together.

The wedding breakfast was really lovely, although I barely ate a thing because of the adrenaline! In the evening before our DJ started we had a friend sing with his guitar, he sang our first dance which was Ed Sheeran’s Tenerife Sea. By way of a honeymoon, we spent a week in Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast, Italy.

It was incredible! Such a beautiful and romantic place to celebrate a honeymoon.

Every single person involved in our day made it truly unforgettable, family, friends, suppliers, but someone who we are truly thankful for, and who gives us a constant reminder of the day, is our photographer Aaron Storry. Thanks to Aaron we can relive our day over and over again for years to come. n Photographer: Aaron Storry, 07525 429 355, www.storry.co.uk.

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Bespoke & Made to Measure Suits by a Savile Row Tailor, Andrew Musson

Award Winning Venue Exquisite Grade II listed Manor House and Stunning Grade I listed Orangery All set in beautiful gardens 29 splendid bedrooms

“We had the most amazing day, everything went perfectly & we will remember our day for the rest of our lives..”

We look forward to hearing from you.

Please contact us on 01536 515505.

Barton Road, Kettering NN15 6SG enquiries@bartonhall.com | www.bartonhall.com

Andrew J Musson Bespoke Tailor of Lincoln

CALL TODAY TO ARRANGE AN APPOINTMENT FOR A BESPOKE OR MADE TO MEASURE SUIT. 39 High Street, Lincoln LN5 8AS

Tel: (01522) 520142 info@andrewjmusson.com www.andrewjmusson.com

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Our Red Carpet Ready Models: Navy collection from left to right, £450 available in red too, sizes 6-16; a Red Carpet Ready exclusive available in gold, black, silver, red & gold, navy & gold and black & gold, in sizes 6-20 £455; navy dress also in burgundy, royal blue and flame red, sizes 6-16 £225; navy/silver dress, also in burgundy and black, sizes 6-24 £360.

READY FOR ANY EVENT

Red Carpet Ready last month took delivery of their brand new spring and summer collections of long and short dresses, designed to ensure you look stunning whatever the event.

Here we present a preview of just some of their new dresses, including a new plus-size range to suit any figure...

Words & Images: Rob Davis.

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- FASHION -

Red Carpet Ready can make sure you dazzle during any special occasion thanks to a choice of over 1,700 dresses - one of the largest selections in the UK. With both long, short and midi-length dresses available in a range of colours and sizes, plus shoes, jewellery and clutch bags, the Channel 5 Prom Queen winner provides a luxurious shopping experience in Branston, near Lincoln.

Our photoshoot shows some of Red Carpet Ready’s newest collections, including a range of plus-sized dresses up to size 32, to flatter any figure. n Below: Green dresses £360 (sizes 6-12, also in navy, red & black); gold/silver encrusted dress £1,250 (sizes 2-18); fishtail dress £470 (sizes 6-20, also in navy, red).

Main Image: Seated silver/grey dress £395 (sizes 6-20, also in navy, red, black); standing, left to right £745 (high end crystal embellished gown as seen on various celebrities, also in gold, aqua, sizes 2-18); grey dress £285 (sizes 6-14, also in burgundy, nude, navy, silver, royal blue, red); silver sequin dress £395 plus sizes 14-32, also in red, royal blue.

Opposite Page: White dresses, two piece £510, many colours, sizes 2-16; white gold £450 in sizes 2-18, also in ivory, coral, navy, seafoam); RCR exclusive dress in white, sizes 2-18, £510.

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- FASHION -

Top: Short dresses in black, red, white, royal blue and fuscia, sizes 2-28 £495.

Above: Navy long sleeve, part of Curve collection, sizes 14-32 £650.

Right: Black and gold full length £360, sizes 6-22.

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Main: Burgundy dresses £360, sizes 6-24, also in navy, black; burgundy £490, sizes 2-18, also in red, blush, ivory and black; RCR exclusive £455, sizes 6-20, also in gold, black, silver, red, navy and gold.

Burgundy bow back £450, sizes 6-14, also seen below.

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- FASHION -

Main: Blush dresses £480, sizes 4-22, also in burgundy, teal, navy, ivory and red; plain dress in blush, red wine, red, royal blue, navy and orange £360, sizes 6-12.

Blush fishtail £595 in black, red, purple too, sizes 2-28.

Below: Silver sequin dress £395 plus sizes 14-32, also in red, royal blue.

Find Out More: Featured items are available from Red Carpet Ready, Hall Lane, Branston near Lincoln.

Open seven days a week until 9pm but you must prebook on 01522 793777. Walk-ins welcome on Saturdays. Alternatively, see www.redcarpetready.co.uk or Instagram @RedCarpet ReadyLincoln.

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glen eden MEDICAL AESTHETICS

Look YOUNGER AnD BooST your CONFIDENCE...

Muscle relaxing injections for fine lines and wrinkles...

Eight point ‘facelift’ and 15 minute ‘rhinoplasty’ using injectable fillers...

Call 01476 550056 www.glen-edenmedical.co.uk Market Cross Surgery, Bourne Road, Corby Glen, Stamford NG33 4BB

The Latest Laser and Injectable cosmetic procedures performed by fully qualified GP or Nurse Practitioner

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- EYE CARE -

The Stamford Eye Clinic Opticians THERE’S A STRONG ‘FRENCH CONNECTION’ TO THE LATEST PRODUCTS AVAILABLE AT STAMFORD’S EYE CLINIC OPTICIANS...

n The Stamford Eye Clinic is open Tuesday to Saturday. Visit the clinic on 32 St Peter’s Street, Stamford PE9 2PF. Call 01780 767403 or see www.thestamfordeyeclinic.co.uk.

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Experience a French Connection at Stamford’s Eye Clinic this month as the independent eye care specialist’s leading brands reveal fresh new looks for spring. Pictured above are seven fresh frame designs for women, from Face à Face and La Font.

Face to Face with Style...

Face à Face is a premium unisex eyewear brand most well-known for its Bocca range, featuring signature ‘shoe’ designs to the arms of its frames. Described as high end, rich in colour and expression, Face à Face frames are fun, imaginative, and exhibit real quality.

La Font...

Meanwhile, La Font established itself as a producer of designer frames over 90 years ago. With over 30 new frame designs revealed each season, the brand offers smart, tailored frames for men, luxurious feminine frames for women and even fun, whimsical styles for children.

Alongside one of the largest choice of designer frames in the area, The Stamford Eye Clinic Opticians offer a full range of eye testing with the latest technology.

Optical Coherence Technology and other vision tests provide not just an insight into your vision, but your general health too, whilst sophisticated lenses and coatings from names like Zeiss and Essilor as well as expert advice ensures clear vision and peace of mind too.

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- HEALTH -

An Inside Look at Chinese

HERBAL THERAPY Jo George’s senior Acupuncturist and Chinese herbalist in Stamford, Lincs…

Having the opportunity to witness the blend of Eastern and Western medicine 17 years ago in China following my BSc (Hons) in Acupuncture, it has given me hope that I will one day see a closer integration of these systems in the UK. I have since returned to China many times and Chinese medicine still forms a major part of healthcare provision in China, and is provided in state hospitals alongside western medicine.

Whilst the understanding of Chinese medicine has changed in the last 17 years in the UK, and I no longer get accused of ‘witchcraft.’ There is still a huge gap between both Western and Eastern medicines and the committed professionals that provide them.

Having said that there are glimmers of hope; for the first time in the UK, GP practices will be involved in directly administering Chinese Herbal Medicines to patients with recurrent urinary tract infections in a clinical trial sponsored by the University of Southampton, and supported by the National Institute for Health Research (May 2016).

Thankfully, with an increased positive reporting in the media, word of mouth and more people using Chinese medicine, my patients understand that they have other options to treating conditions that they can explore. My philosophy has always been to partner the right combination of treatments with each patient, rather than tell them what to do. Many of my patients, seek Chinese medicine over pharmaceuticals, especially when experiencing side effects. I do not however, discourage essential medical treatment for conditions where western medical supervision or advice should be sought. The goal is to enhance, work with, and assist recovery using a combination of approaches.

Chinese herbal medicine is a major thrust of traditional Chinese medicine, and is one of the great herbal systems of the world, with an unbroken tradition going back to the 3rd century BC. It has been used for centuries in the Far East,

as a fundamental therapy for many acute and chronic conditions. Being one of only 450 members of Register of Chinese Medicine Herbalists in the UK, I am proud to be using such a rich body of knowledge. I draw from my ‘Materia Medica,’ a traditional Chinese medicine text that covers thousands of herbs, minerals and other extracts.

Like acupuncture, Chinese herbs can address unhealthy body patterns that manifest in a variety of symptoms and complaints.

Chinese herbal therapy aims to help regain homeostasis, or balance, in one’s body and to strengthen the body’s resistance to disease.

However, herbal medicine is distinct from medicine based on pharmaceutical drugs.

Herbal medicine seeks primarily to correct internal imbalances rather than to treat symptoms alone, and therapeutic intervention is designed to encourage this self-healing process.

When do you recommend Chinese herbs, you ask?

Chinese herbs can be incredibly useful when a patient has multiple symptoms that are hard to pinpoint, when they have exhausted traditional medical options or when they need herbal therapy to counteract side effects of prescribed medications.

Many conditions I treat, especially in their chronic forms, create great difficulty for conventional medicine, whilst Chinese Herbal Medicine has a great deal to offer. Herbs can also be a useful tool for prevention of disease, one of the major areas I have specialised in is women’s gynaecological health where herbs can be extremely beneficial.

Another example of the way in which I use Chinese herbal therapy is to augment western medicine following cancer treatment. Herbs can aid the body’s recovery from the side effects of

chemotherapy and radiation, and enhance the immune system.

A consult with me will typically last one hour. A detailed medical history is obtained. A physical exam, which focuses on the tongue (colour and texture) and pulse is used to determine the body’s overall health status. Then I make recommendations for a custom formula of herbs that fit the patient. The herbs are prepared in the UK, powdered or encapsulated.

One common question I get asked is regarding herbs and their potential interaction with both prescribed and over-the-counter Western medications. As a member of professional regulating bodies in the UK we are trained to recognize how herbal therapy can interact with other medications, and have an up to date list of current research on the topic.

Having the opportunity to practice Eastern medicine has been rewarding. By being open to new ways of thinking all those years ago when my friends thought that I was studying ‘witchcraft’, I have been able to help patients in ways I did not think possible. n

n Jo George practices traditional acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, which is based on Chinese medicine principles that have been developed, researched and refined for over 2,500 years. Jo is a Professional and Fully Insured Member of The British Acupuncture Council and Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine. She has been in practice for 17 years and holds an MSc, BSc (Hons) in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chinese herbalism. For a free informal preliminary chat with Jo call 07914 851995. For appointments please contact The Broad Street Practice, Stamford on 01780 480889 or visit www.lifemedicineclinic.com.

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FIVE STAR

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- MOTORS -

IT’S GENERALLY REGARDED AS THE CLASS-LEADING MID-SIZED EXECUTIVE MOTOR, WITH A PEERLESS BLEND OF DRIVER INVOLVEMENT AND UNABASHED LUXURY. RECENTLY, MERCEDES’S E-CLASS HAS BEEN WINNING LEGIONS OF FANS IN THE MOTORING PRESS BUT NOW IT’S TIME FOR MUNICH TO FIGHT BACK WITH AN ALL-NEW, LEAN AND LUXURIOUS BMW 5-SERIES...

Words: Rob Davis.

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- MOTORS -

With January behind us it’s time to forget all of that new year’s resolutions, losing weight nonsense. That’s unless you’re a BMW 5 Series. This month a new model of the midsize executive saloon, arrives in showrooms, sitting, as always, between the 3-Series & 7-Series and is generally considered to be the class leading car in its size and price.

A quick history lesson; the 5-Series launched in 1972, and this will be its seventh iteration.

Its design is evolutionary, rather than revolutionary, sticking with a relatively sober but still smart and engineered from scratch to be not only 100kg lighter, but to incorporate and facilitate the latest technology.

The 5-Series is generally regarded as a class-leader, but with the arrival of Jaguar’s revised XF and Mercedes’s E-Class, plus the advent of the popular Audi A6, the 5-Series’s supremacy has been diminished, and now, the choice between all of the above models is now one of arbitrary personal preference, rather than a case of one car being empirically ‘better.’

Despite that, most of the motoring press agrees that the 5-Series is the best driving car in its class, and the new model will look to reconcile its peerless handling whilst offering emerging autonomous driving technologies.

From launch, there will be two petrol and two diesel cars. The 520d and 530d and four and six cylinder diesels, producing 190hp and 265hp respectively.

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The 530i and 540i petrols are four and six cylinder respectively, and will remain the most powerful cars - kicking out 252hp and 340hp - until the fire-breathing M550i arrives in summer. Most models are available with xDrive four wheel drive; some are available with a manual ‘box. Most 5-Series models, though, will be two-wheel drive automatics.

We’d recommend sticking to the 520d, which provides 190hp, 400nm torque, reaches 60mph in 7.5 seconds and 146mph flat out.

It’ll reward drivers with 68.8mpg economy combined and is relatively clean, releasing just 108g CO2.

That makes it the best compromise between efficiency and performance, and the cheapest company car until the inevitable arrival of

“DESPITE THAT, MOST OF THE MOTORING PRESS AGREES THAT THE BMW 5-SERIES IS THE BEST DRIVING CAR IN ITS CLASS...”

Above: An eight speed gearbox is allied to a 2.0V4 diesel engine in the 520d. Other engine options include a V6 diesel and two petrol units, whilst four wheel drive is optional.

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- MOTORS -

the 520ed ‘Efficient Dynamics’ model essentially a re-engineered 520d designed to lower CO2 emissions for fleet driver seeking lower-tax bills. Inevitably a plug-in hybrid model will follow, but when BMW’s diesels are so efficient, there’s little point unless your only journeys are urban, rather than motorway or A-road sorties.

The 520d in SE trim will sell for £36,025, falling into the VED band B, and will have the lowest leasing and PCP rates.

As standard, it provides drivers with 17” alloy wheels, climate control, Bluetooth, automatic gearbox, DAB radio, cruise control, satellite navigation, parking sensors front and rear, auto lights and wipers, as well as heated leather seats with a choice of black, beige, brown or white hide.

Standard equipment is generous, with all the essentials covered, but by opting for the more modest engine you’ll have budget for what 126

we consider essentials; the Parking Assistant Plus option, at £1,095, gives 360° and reversing cameras and automatic parking.

The Driving Assistant Plus package at £2,250 provides adaptive cruise control, automatic steering on motorways and automatic lane changing. Other technology is available, if you’re technically minded, from remote control parking, operated when you’re outside the vehicle by a smart key, to a night vision system and head-up display.

The new car is the smoothest, quietest and most aerodynamic 5-Series yet. Lighter, smarter and stronger. If you’re seeking an executive car, the 5-Series is probably on your wishlist already. The market is sharper, the cars better, and the choice harder than ever, but if you’re seeking an executive car offering comfort, and engaging drive, badge kudos and quality, you’ll have to go far to beat the compelling 5-Series. n

BMW 5-Series 520d SE

Price: £36,025.

Engine: 2.0 V4 diesel, 8-speed automatic (190hp) Economy: 68.83mpg (combined), 108g/CO2.

Top Speed: 146mph; 0-60mph 7.5secs.

Equipment: Heated leather seats, sat nav, cruise control, climate control, parking sensors, DAB radio, automatic lights and wipers, automatic transmission.

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Crosswords CRYPTIC CROSSWORD Test your lateral thinking skills with this month’s Cryptic Crossword. Each puzzle has a set of perplexing clues to unravel, and as every lover of logic knows, the frustration is all part of the fun!

ACROSS

1. Musical stored inside piano roll’s top container? (7) 5. Name taken by game master (7) 10. See 4 11. Art of sewer decoration? (10) 12. It happened in the end lift crack (6) 13. Leave empty room smaller than before, not having a clue (8) 14. Bids under, breaking free (9) 16. About those taking flight 161 (5) 17. Burn peeled off in layers with no end of heartache (5) 19. Escort’s state? Unserviceable — the woman’s cool (9) 23. List of the actors etc to take the role of Sykes? (8) 24. In irritation, say, 4 x 4 almost knocked over horseman (6) 26. Idealistic rocks given a stressed look (10) 27. Standby terraced housing bits combined (4) 28. See 21 29. Jail youth’s liquid holder(7)

DOWN

ACROSS

DOWN

1. Race of 21.0975 km (4- 8) 2. Shorten (a text) (7) 9. Cavalry — gymnastic apparatus (5) 3. Perceive by touch (4) 10. Traveller to a shrine (7) 4. Home help from abroad (2,4) 11. Broad (4) 5. Completely sane (3,5) 12. Age of majority (8) 6. Vast multitude (5) 14. Fragrances (6) 7. Neater column (anag) 15. Hansel’s sister (6) — terminology (12) 18. Stretched out (8) 8. Poem by T.S. Eliot (3,5,4) 20. Infantry — unit of 13. Upright (8) linear measure (4) 16. Crushed under the feet (7) 22. Insatiable desire for wealth (7) 17. Decree (anag) — ebb (6) 23. Shore bird (5) 19. Snares (5) 21 Bathe (4) 24. Lack of consensus (12)

CRYPTIC ANSWERS

QUICK ANSWERS

QUICK CROSSWORD

2. Article on site associated with Apollo Theatre (7) 3. Certainly no opening for kidnap (5) 4,10. Et ceteras Jo removed could have her off the aircraft pdq (7,4) 6. They might hum, unsmiling, in Old Style setting (6) 7. Jokes about grand passion for soft treatment aids (3,6) 8. Rocky area is uranium- enriched vast tract (7) 9. Famous 5 article getting more column inches? (1,6,6) 15. Corporation founder’s shambolic board manoeuvre? (5-4) 18. Writer’s block — in bed before start of evening (7) 20. Creature’s energy, life force and cycles (7) 21,28. Pushed to do something unprepared and so likely to go under? (2,2,3,4,3) 22. Unknown metal containing cold mineral (6) 25. Clog junk boats (5)

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